TABLE OF CONTENTS
(Click on blue hot links to go to the topic.)

Civil Rights- Equal Opportunity Statement *
Preamble *
Disclaimer *

Section I

Attendance *
Leaving School *
Late Arrival *
Doctor & Dental Appointments *
Absences from Study Hall *
Truancy *
Withdrawal from School Procedures *

Section II
General School Information *

Book Fees *
Student Insurance *
Student Lockers *
Change of Address or Phone Number *
Assignment Books *
Emergency Drills *
School Bus Regulations *
Attendance at Extracurricular Events *
School Cancellation (Emergency "Snow" Days) *
Announcement *
Assemblies *
Lost and Found *
Health Records for Physical-Dental Examinations and Immunizations *
Medicine at School *
Medical Excuse from Physical Education *
Visitors *
Telephone Use *
Motor Vehicle Restrictions *
Closed Campus *
Halls *
Respect for Adult Authority Figures *
Library and Media Center *
Behavior Intervention Policy *
Community Resources *

Requirements for Graduation from Valmeyer High School *
1998 Sophomores, Juniors, & Seniors

Credits *
Required Subjects *
Required Class Load *

Requirements for Graduation from Valmeyer High School *
Beginning Freshmen 1998

Credits *
Required Subjects *
Required Class Load *
Grades *
Semester Grade *
Grading Scale *
Class Rank and Honor Roll *
Correspondence Courses *
Early Graduation *
Alternative School Attendance *
Beck Area Career Center *
Guidance Counselor *
Driver Education *
Optional P.E. for Juniors and Seniors *
Removal from Class *
Part-Time Students *
Student Records *
GED and Adult Education Information *

Free GED classes – Sparta, Illinois- Daytime *

Section III
Athletics and Activities *

Extracurricular Activity Preamble *
Athletics Activities *

Valmeyer Junior/Senior High Schools
Code of Conduct for Extracurricular Activities *

Responsibilities *
Senior High School Eligibility Rules *
Disciplinary Actions for Senior High *
Junior High Eligibility Rules *
Disciplinary Actions for Junior High *
Verification *
Individual Sport Rules *
No Pass No Play Policy
IHSA Athletic Rules and Regulations
Student Activities *

Section IV
Discipline Procedure *

Section V
Consequences *

 Valmeyer High School
300 South Cedar Bluff Drive
Valmeyer, Illinois 62295
(618) 935-2100

School Board

Civil Rights- Equal Opportunity Statement

Valmeyer Community Unit School District #3 provides vocational and educational opportunities for all students who are residents of District #3 without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, handicap, or national origin. The Civil Rights Policy will prevail in all matters concerning staff, students, educational programs and services, and persons with whom the Board does business.

Discrimination is any behavior that prevents individuals from achieving their full potential. Discrimination involves treating persons as members of groups, rather than on the basis of individual capabilities or merits.

Preamble

This handbook is provided to students and their families to acquaint them with the rules, regulations, procedures, and other relevant information necessary for the orderly functioning of the school. It has been structured to help promote student progress as well as the interest of modeling appropriate school government. In addition, this handbook provides for the psychological and physical safety of the students through appropriate rules and regulations.

When breeches of school disciplinary rules and regulations occur, it is the responsibility of involved teachers and administrators to work with the student, his or her parents, and other support personnel to help the student correct his or her behavior. All disciplinary actions shall be directed toward protecting the welfare of school community as well as helping the student develop self-discipline. When determining the response for a specific breech of discipline, school personnel will consider the nature of the act, the student’s previous history, his or her age and maturation, and mitigating circumstances, and the effect of his or her actions on the welfare of the school community.

Disclaimer

The provisions of this handbook are not to be considered as irrevocable contractual commitments between the school and the student. Rather, the provisions reflect the current status of the rules, practices, and procedures as currently practiced and are subject to change.

Section I

Attendance

Good school work depends to a large extent on punctual and regular attendance. Make-up work cannot completely take the place of regular classroom work. Parents must assume responsibility for the regular attendance of their children at school.

Absences:

Absence from school may be classified in three areas:

Excused- Sickness, accident, death in family, or family emergency.

Unexcused- Missing the bus, staying home to do work that could be done at another time, truancy, or any other reason that the administration considers not satisfactory will be an unexcused absence.

Pre-excused- There are those occasions when it will be necessary for students to be absent from school for special reasons. This type of absence from school will be arranged far ahead of time by the principal and obtain each teacher’s signature ahead of time. Failure to do this will result in this type of absence to be declared unexcused. Examples of pre-excused absences are: vacations, trips, college appointments, and college registration.

If a student is going to be absent from school, a phone call from the parent is required during the morning of the absence, explaining why the student is absent. If none is received the absence will be unexcused. Students should check the bulletin board to see if they are marked excused or unexcused. If a student is marked unexcused, he/she should go to the office and receive an absence slip before the beginning of school. The student should then have the slip signed by the respective teacher and then leave it in the office after school.

A student who has an "excused" absence is allowed to make up the work missed. A student who has an "unexcused" absence is not allowed to make up the work and will receive a "0" in each class missed. Students will be given on day for each day absent to make up work. Pre-excused students will have all assignments due upon their return to school.

If a student is absent (3) consecutive school days or more, the school will notify the parents of the student’s absence if the parents have not already contacted the school indicating their knowledge of the absence. Also, students who continually are absent, excused or otherwise will have a letter sent home notifying the parents of days missed during a semester.

Students are not permitted to participate in any school activities on days that they are absent from school.

Teachers have the authority and the right to require attendance and participation which may be assigned points in grade formulation.

Leaving School

Students who desire to leave school during the school day must obtain written permission from the principal, preferably before 8:20 a.m. A request by phone or a note from the parent will be required before any permit will be given. If a student becomes ill, he or she will secure permission from the teacher to go to the office. Arrangements will be made at the office to care for the student. Students leaving before the end of the day must sign out in the office before leaving.

Late Arrival

Students arriving late to school must go to the office, sign in, and receive a late pass. The office must have a note or a phone call from the parents explaining why the student was late. Lack of note or phone call will result in a student being considered unexcused.

College Day or Job Interview

All college appointments and job interviews must be pre-approved through the guidance counselor or principal.

Doctor & Dental Appointments

Doctor and dental appointments should be scheduled outside school hours, if possible. Appointments during school hours will require an appointment card or some other means of verification for and excused absence to be granted.

Absences from Study Hall

Unauthorized absences from study hall will result in the assignment of one after school detention.

Truancy

Students who are habitually or chronically truant will be referred to support services.

Withdrawal from School Procedures

If a student is withdrawing from school for any reason, he or she should contact the counselor or principal'’ secretary as soon as possible prior to the withdrawal date.

Section II

General School Information

Book Fees

School books are rented to the students. Lab and shop supplies and some consumable work books used by students are charged to students as they are used. The book rental fees are calculated as given to the students at the beginning of the year. Book rental bills are due in the superintendent’s office no later than September 30.

If a student loses or damages a textbook, he/she is responsible for the cost of replacing or repairing the textbook.

Student fees may be waived by the Superintendent as per Board policy.

Upon entering school, students will be assigned a hall locker. Lockers are the property of the school. The school reserves the right to open lockers for general inspection or when there is REASONABLE SUSPICION that the lockers contain controlled substances, stolen goods, or an object which could be considered to be used as a weapon.

Students are to use only the locker assigned to them by the school. Use of more than one locker is prohibited. Periodic locker checks will be conducted throughout the school year. Locker checks will be announced prior to the check being made. Use of scotch tape or other adhesives to decorate lockers inside or out is prohibited. Strips of magnetic tape may be utilized of the student feels that decoration of the locker is necessary. Open cans of soda and open candy are not to be kept in lockers.

Each student will be held responsible for the condition of his/her assigned locker. If a locker does not function properly, please contact the office.

Change of Address or Phone Number

Students or parents should immediately notify the office when they have a change of address of phone number. This information is needed for effective communication in case of emergency situations.

Assignment Books

Assignment books are available in the high school office if desired.

Emergency Drills

Practicing emergency procedures is extremely important so everyone will be prepared in the event any disaster should strike. Fire drills will be signaled via the fire alarm and disaster drills over the PA system.

School Bus Regulations

Students who ride the bus to school shall ride their assigned bus unless they have written permission from the Superintendent of Schools to change buses. No student will be given permission to change buses or to ride a different bus unless the student has a written request from his parents and a bus pass from the unit office.

Students who live a distance of at least one and one-half miles from the school will be transported without charge. The bus driver has total responsibility for conduct upon the bus. Any students who cause disruptions or vandalize the bus will be subject to temporary or permanent loss of bus privileges.

The following rules and regulations will be observed while students are riding the school bus:

1. No profanity of smoking
2. Pupils remain seated
3. No shouting
4. Keep arms, legs, and head inside the bus
5. Pupils must be on time
6. No talking at railroad crossings
7. Cross the road at least 10 feet in front of the bus and then only on the signal of the driver
8. No littering, eating of food, or drinking soda at any time
9. No insubordination

Attendance at Extracurricular Events

Students desiring to ride the spectator bus to ball games must sign up before 1 p.m. on the day of the game in the high school office and pay the bus fee to the high school secretary. Any student who misbehaves on the bus to an activity or at the activity will lose the privilege of riding the bus to activities. All students who ride the bus to an activity are expected to ride the bus back.

Spectators at any games, concerts, or other events held in the gym both away and at home are to remain in seats during that event. Soda and other concessions are to be consumed only at designated times and areas.

School Cancellation (Emergency "Snow" Days)

In the event that school should be forced to close because of weather or unforeseen occurrences, radio announcements will be made over radio stations KMOX and KLOU. Broadcasts on KMOX will be at 5:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m., and KLOU will be at 5:55 a.m. and 6:55 a.m. Will participate in KSDK's "Storm Watch" program and KMOV TV. Closings on TV will be announced beginning at 5:30 a.m.

Should severe weather conditions occur during the day to such a degree that it would appear likely that the buses would have great difficulty making their normal runs, the Board of Education has decided to dismiss school at 12:45 p.m. In this event we are confronted with the problem of contacting parents of children who do not live along the bus route. We plan to discharge those students who live off the route at the home of the nearest neighbor past the regular stop to ensure we are not leaving any student whose parent might not be home. Please contact the bus driver or the Superintendent if your particular case needs special attention.

All school activities will be canceled for the entire day whenever school is closed because of inclement weather- unless conditions change sufficiently during that day to allow students to travel safely. Such actions will be approved by the Superintendent of Schools.

Announcement

Weekly and daily announcements will be read by the teachers during first period and will be posted in the classrooms. There will also be a copy of the announcements posted on the hallway bulletin board. It is the students’ responsibility to be aware of the information included in the announcements.

Assemblies

Periodically, assemblies will be held for the purpose of the education and/or entertainment of the student body. Students shall be expected to be polite and attentive at all times.

Lost and Found

All lost and found items should be turned in to the office. Students who have lost items should check with the office as soon as they become aware of the item being missing.

Health Records for Physical-Dental Examinations and Immunizations

All students shall be required to complete physical examination, dental examination, and state required immunization records within a year prior to entering the ninth grade. In-state transfer students need to provide the school with this information within thirty (30) days. A physical examination within one year prior to transfer will be accepted. Students who do not have timely physical examination, dental examination, and updated immunizations will be excluded from attending school.

Medicine at School

The administration of medication to students during regular school hours and during school-related activities should be discouraged unless absolutely necessary for the critical health and well-being of the student.

Written orders are to be provided to the school from a physical detailing the name of the drug dosage and the time interval in which the medication is to be taken. The orders are to be renewed periodically (at minimum of once a month).

A written request from the parent or guardian of the pupil must be sent to the school district. Also, a letter from the physical indicating the necessity for the medication during the day, the type of disease or illness involved, the benefits of the medications, the side effects, and an emergency number where he/she can be reached needs to be sent. Both letters shall be placed in the pupil's file. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Medication must be brought to school in a container appropriately labeled by the pharmacy or physician. The initial dose at school must be administered by the school nurse. Only a certified nurse and/or administration shall be required to administer medication.

The school district retains the discretion to reject for administration of medicine.

Medical Excuse from Physical Education

If a student needs to be excused from P.E. activity because of illness or injury, the student must present a request signed by a doctor stating how long the student is to avoid activity. Parents may request up to two days exemption from P.E. as a result of a recent illness.

Visitors

All visitors are required to immediately report to the school office upon entering the school premises. As a general rule, the school does not permit students to bring visitors to school.

Parents who wish to schedule a conference with a teacher, observe a class, or meet with office staff are requested to contract the school prior to their visit. By doing this, parents will avoid a possible long wait.

Telephone Use

A pay phone is located in the main lobby for student use. Students must come to the high school office for a PHONE PASS before using the phone.

Students will not be called from class to answer the phone unless the caller is an immediate family member of the student and the call is necessary and cannot wait. Calls from other than immediate family members will be taken only in cases of emergency.

Motor Vehicle Restrictions

Students are permitted to drive to school provided they observe the following guidelines:

1. Students should display proper driving techniques and obey all traffic laws at all times.
2. Students are required to fill out a parking permit.
3. Students must park in the last parking lot at the north end of the building.
4. Students should enter the building immediately after arrival at school. Students are not to sit in their vehicles during ANY PART OF THE SCHOOL DAY, including lunch.
5. No students are permitted in the parking lot unless they have permission from the high school principal and have secured a parking lot pass. Students will be given a minimum of one (1) after school detention for failing to have a valid pass.

FIRST VIOLATION- Verbal warning and turn in keys to office.

SECOND VIOLATION- Loss of driving privileges for two school days. Parent conference will be held for driving privileges to be restored.

THIRD VIOLATION- Three days out of school suspension.

Closed Campus

During school hours, students are not permitted to leave the school premises without permission from the principal. All students leaving the school during the school day are required to sign out in the office and sign in if they are late or return to school before the day is over. Prior to leaving school, parents must call or write a note to the office. Any student who does not follow this procedure will be considered skipping school.

FIRST VIOLATION- After school detention.

SECOND VIOLATION- One day out of school suspension.

THIRD VIOLATION- Three days out of school suspension.

Halls

Absolutely no loitering in the halls during class time will be permitted. Students in the halls during class time must have a pass from a teacher.

Respect for Adult Authority Figures

Student should respect any adult associated with the school system and comply with any reasonable request or direction given. This list includes teachers, administrators, custodians, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, and adult volunteers.

Library and Media Center

The library shall be used for the following purposes:

Study
Research
Writing Projects
Reading

Students who use the library area improperly shall be denied use of it. Students must have a pass from a teacher in order to use the library during class or study hall time.

Behavior Intervention Policy

The Valmeyer School Board has adopted a policy regarding behavioral interventions with students with disabilities. This policy is available upon request through the special education director.

Community Resources

A list of community resources in available in the school clinic. The list provides the names, addresses, and phone numbers of service agencies.

1. Twenty Carnegie units of credit of which at least eighteen (18) units must be in academic subjects. Academic subjects are recognized as English, Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, Foreign Language, Industrial, Agriculture, Homemaking, Art, Business Courses, Health, Music Theory, and courses at the Beck Area Career Center. Cumulative credit is earned in Band, Chorus, and Physical Education at the rate of 1/8 credit per semester.
2. No more than one (1) credit toward graduation may be granted in Band or Chorus.

1. Four units of credit in English.
2. Two and one-half (2½) units of Social Studies of which at least one year must be History of the United States (including passing the Federal and Illinois Constitution Tests and the Flag Code), one-half (½) unit in Geography, and one-half (½) unit in Introduction to Social Sciences.
3. Two (2) units of credit in Mathematics, one of which may be related to Computer Technology.
4. Two (2) units of credit in Science.
5. One (1) unit of credit in Physical Education unless excused by the High School Principal because of a schedule conflict or because of a medical reason confirmed by a physician.
6. One-half (½) unit of credit in Resource management.
7. One-half (½) unit of credit in Health Education.
8. One (1) unit of credit from Music, Art, Foreign Language, or Vocational Education. One-half (½) unit must be in Keyboarding.
9. Pass Driver Education classroom.
10. . Two (2) units may be earned toward graduation with correspondence courses, if approved by the High School Principal.
11. . No credit will be given for proficiency of course work in Resource Management and Keyboarding.

Required Class Load

All students, except those who have attended high school more than four (4) calendar years, must be enrolled in enough courses to potentially yield a minimum of two and one-half (2½) units of credit per semester and to potentially yield a minimum of five (5) credits per school year except in extreme hardship cases excused from this requirement whereupon the minimum potential yield of four and one-half (4½) credits shall be required.

1. Twenty and one-half (20½) Carnegie units of credit of which at least eighteen and on-half (18½) units must be in academic subjects. Academic subjects are recognized as English, Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, Foreign Language, Industrial, Agriculture, Homemaking, Art, Business Courses, Health, Music Theory, and courses at the Beck Area Career Center. Cumulative credit is earned in Band, Chorus, and Physical Education at the rate of 1/8 credit per semester.
2. No more than one (1) credit toward graduation may be granted in Band or Chorus.

1. Four (4) units of credit in English.
2. Three (3) units of Social Studies of which at least one year must be History of the United States (including passing the Federal and Illinois Constitution Tests and the Flag Code), one-half (½) unit in Geography, one-half (½) unit in Introduction to Social Sciences, and one-half (½) unit in Government.
3. Two (2) units of credit in Mathematics, one of which may be related to Computer Technology.
4. Two (2) units of credit in Science.
5. One (1) unit of credit in Physical Education unless excused by the High School Principal because of a schedule conflict or because of a medical reason confirmed by a physician.
6. One-half (½) unit of credit in Resource management.
7. One-half (½) unit of credit in Health Education.
8. One-half (½) unit of credit in Keyboarding.
9. One (1) unit of credit from Music, Art, Foreign Language, Vocational, or Humanities.
10. . Pass Driver Education classroom.
11. . Two (2) units may be earned toward graduation with correspondence courses, if approved by the High School Principal.
12. . No credit will be given for proficiency of course work in Resource Management or Keyboarding.

Required Class Load

All students, except those who have attended high school more than four (4) calendar years, must be enrolled in enough courses to potentially yield a minimum of two and one-half (2½) units of credit per semester and to potentially yield a minimum of five (5) credits per school year except in extreme hardship cases excused from this requirement whereupon the minimum potential yield of four and one-half (4½) credits shall be required.

Grades

Grades are an evaluation of what you have learned. They become a permanent record that lasts forever. Potential employers, the Armed Forces, and institutions of higher education are all interested in your high school records. Report cards are issued every nine weeks and progress reports are issued at least every four and one half weeks. The report card shows only letter grades and is based on class participation, behavior, homework, and test results.

The first quarter grade and the third quarter grade should only be considered as mid-semester reports. Only the semester grade average determines the semester grade received and if credits have been earned towards graduation.

Semester Grade

The semester final grade indicates the teacher’s judgement of the student’s mastery of the subject material. This final goes on the student’s permanent record and is reported to employers and colleges as requested. The semester grade is obtained from the two nine weeks grades and the semester exam.

Grading Scale

The following scale is used to determine grades assigned.

A 94-100
B 87-93
C 77-86
D 70-76
F 69 and below

Class Rank and Honor Roll

Valmeyer High School will use a 4-point grading system to determine class rank. Class rank will be calculated at the end of each semester.

To be selected for either Valedictorian or Salutatorian a student must have 20 credits (excluding Band, Chorus, and Physical Education) at the time of graduation.

Valmeyer High School will calculate an honor roll for each grading quarter and semester. High honors will designate students with a grade point average of 3.5 to 4.0. Honors will be designate students with a grade point average of 3.0 to 3.49.

Correspondence Courses

Students are permitted to apply two credits earned by correspondence to meeting the graduation requirements. Any student interested in taking correspondence courses should consult the guidance counselor. Final approval must be granted by the High School Principal.

Any student taking a correspondence course to graduate must complete all work so that the school receives a copy of the student’s grade ten school days prior to the scheduled graduation ceremony for the student to participate in the graduation ceremony. Valmeyer High School will use the University of Missouri Extension for correspondence courses.

Early Graduation

Any student who has successfully fulfilled all the requirements for graduation will be allowed to graduate early.

The principal’s office must be notified in writing no later than the eleventh day of attendance during the semester in which the student will be graduating. If the student is under 18, the notification must be signed by a parent of guardian.

Students who choose early graduation may participate in the end of the year ceremony if they attend practices. It should be clearly understood that students who graduate at mid-term will be considered graduates and will not participate in student activities.

Alternative School Attendance

Any student transferring from Alternative Education classes at Beck Area Career Center or from any other school district must attend Valmeyer High School for one full semester before qualifying for graduation from Valmeyer High School.

Beck Area Career Center

The Beck Area Career Center provides students with the opportunity to earn credits in specific vocational areas. The Beck Center also offers an alternative education program for some students. Any student interested in attending the Beck Center should see the counselor to discuss the courses available at the Center.

The school district provides transportation for students taking courses at the center. Students who take courses at the center are subject to the procedures and guidelines established by the administration of the center. Students are not permitted to drive to the Beck Center unless they have secured the proper driving permit from their Beck teacher, obtained their parent’s signature, and presented the permit to the principal for his signature. One copy of the permit is retained by the high school office and the student must show his/her permit to the Beck bus driver before the student leaves the school parking lot.

Students who miss the bus to the Beck Center will be required to sit in the study hall during the hours they would normally be attending the center.

Excessive absences from the Beck Center may result in the student being removed from the program and receiving a failing grade on his/her transcript.

Guidance Counselor

The guidance counselor’s primary purpose is to assist students in utilizing the resources of Valmeyer High School to acquire the very best possible education available. The guidance counselor will help students with the following:

1. Counsel students regarding personal problems
2. Assist Students in planning their schedules based on career plans
3. Monitor the students’ progress in their classes
4. Monitor the students’ progress toward completion of graduation requirements
5. Assist the students in applying for admission to institutions of higher education
6. Assist students in applying for various scholarships

Students who wish to see the counselor should make an appointment. The purpose of using appointments is to effectively utilize counselor’s and student’s time. Parents who wish to see the counselor are encouraged to call for an appointment to avoid a waiting period.

Driver Education

All students must earn credit in the classroom driver education program as part of the education requirements. Behind-the-wheel training is not required, but is offered to all students.

The state requires a minimum of 30 hours classroom attendance, six hours behind-the-wheel (unless student can demonstrate, in the opinion of the instructor, proficiency after three hours) and successful completion of course content. In addition, the state requires an additional 25 hours of driving time supervised by the student’s parents. Because of state regulations any student with excessive absences will be dropped.

Students must have their 15^th birthday by December 1^st of the previous school year to enroll in drivers education class. The oldest half of the students registered for the class will be enrolled for 1^st semester and the other half will be enrolled for 2^nd semester.

Students are scheduled into behind-the-wheel phase based on their birthdate, the teacher’s and students’ schedules, and the availability of students. BECAUSE OF CONFLICTS BETWEEN TEACHER AND STUDENT SCHEDULES, THE OLDER STUDENTS DO NOT ALWAYS GET TO DRIVE BEFORE SOME YOUNGER. Whenever possible, older students will drive first.

The fee for driver education (behind-the-wheel) will be set annually by the Board of Education.

Optional P.E. for Juniors and Seniors

The School Code provides three circumstances by which school districts can authorize student exemption from daily physical education. Exemptions from physical education instruction at the 11^th and 12^th grade levels may be granted for those students in the following three situations.

A. Any 11^th or 12^th grade student who participates in an INTERSCHOLASTIC athletic program.

1. Interscholastic programs do not include other activities such as cheerleading, marching band, pompon squads, etc.
2. The student athlete may take an extra class in place of physical education if he/she wishes. If the substitute class is a semester long course, the student must complete that class regardless of the length of the sport season. Students, however, do not substitute an extra class are expected to be reassigned to physical education as soon as their particular sports season has ended.

B. Any 11th or 12th grade student who, in order to be granted admission to a specific academic course.

C. Any 11^th or 12^th grade student who lacks sufficient course credit or lacks one or more specific courses and must enroll in a class other than physical education in order to meet graduation requirements.

Removal from Class

Students who are removed from a class for disciplinary reasons or students who withdraw after the first five (5) days of the semester will receive a failing grade for that course for the semester. Classes schedules must be changed within the first five (5) full days of the semester.

Part-Time Students

Only students who have attended eight full semesters will be able to be a part-time student.

Student Records

Both permanent and temporary records will be kept on each student. Permanent information is necessary for entry into college and/or obtaining many jobs. Permanent information consists of the following:

1. basic identifying information, including students’ and parents’ names, addresses, birth date and place, and gender.
2. academic transcript, including grades, class rank, graduation date, grade level achieved, and scores on college entrance examinations.
3. attendance record
4. accident reports and health record
5. record of release of permanent record information. This permanent record may also consist of the following:

No other information shall be placed in the student permanent records.

Student temporary records consist of all information not required in the student’s permanent record and will be destroyed upon graduation. This temporary information may include family background information, intelligence test scores, aptitude test scores, achievement level test results, participation in extra curricular activities, honors and awards received, disciplinary actions, teacher anecdotal records, special education files, and any verified report or information from outside agencies or organizations.

All student records are open to parents or guardians and to the students. (A student may view his/her own record at age 16). Parents or guardians have a right to inspect and copy the students’ records provided they bear the cost of such copying. Parents have the right to control access and release of school student records and to request a copy of information released.

Parents shall have the right to challenge any entry exclusive of grades in the school student records on the basis of accuracy, relevance, and/or propriety. A request for a hearing must be submitted in writing to the school and shall contain notice of the specific entry or entries to be challenged and the basis of the challenge. An informal conference with parents will be held within fifteen (15) school days of receipt of the request for a hearing. If the challenge is not resolved by the informal conference, a formal process shall be initiated.

Information may be released without parental consent in connection with an emergency to appropriate persons if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other persons. The parents will be notified as soon as possible of the information released, the date of the release, the person, agency, or organization receiving the information, and the purpose of the release.

No person may condition the granting or withholding of any right, privilege, or benefits or make as a condition of employment, credit or insurance the securing by any individual of any information from a student’s temporary record which such individual may obtain through the exercise of any right secured under the Illinois School Student Record Act of 1975.

Students should contact their counselor for further details if they are interested in this matter.

GED and Adult Education Information

Education Service Region

Monroe-Randolph County

284-6611

Free GED classes – Sparta, Illinois- Daytime

M-T-W-Th- 11:30- 6 Weeks

Evenings in Red Bud, Illinois- M & W- 16 Weeks

GED Test given weekly by Red Bud Office- 2 Day Test

8:30- Noon or 12:30-4:00 p.m.

Cost $25.00 for the test- Must be Monroe/Randolph County Resident

Must be 18 years old or older and the appropriate high school class has graduated.

Literacy Grants at the Chester Office

826-5471

Free to those eligible

1. Basic Adult Training Mobile- Must have JTPA certification

2. Learning Adult Literacy- One on one tutoring service comes to your library.

 Section III
Athletics and Activities

Extracurricular Activity Preamble

Extracurricular activities are privileges extended by the district to students who wish to participate and who agree to comply with the rules and regulations established for the respective activity. The failure to comply with the rules and regulations shall result in appropriate sanctions.

Because these activities are regarded as privileges and not property interest of the students, only those procedural and substantiated considerations as provided for within this handbook shall be afforded the students when a disciplinary sanction must be considered.

Athletics Activities

Interscholastic athletics are offered in the following sports: baseball, softball, basketball, and volleyball. These sports activities are designed to involve as many individuals as possible whole furthering the physical and educational experiences of each participant. Prior to participation, all students must meet the eligibility requirements of the Illinois High School Association and the Valmeyer High School athletic department. Title IX guidelines are used in all participation.

All students who participate in competitive athletics must purchase proper school insurance or sign the standard waiver form indicating that an adequate medical plan is maintained at home. This must be completed prior to the first practice session.

Boys:
Winter: Basketball
Spring: Baseball

Girls:
Winter: Basketball
Spring: Softball

Students should indicate to the coach of each sport their interest in participation early in the school year. They should not wait until the season begins.

 Valmeyer Junior/Senior High Schools
Code of Conduct for Extracurricular Activities

The coaching staff of Valmeyer Junior/Senior High Schools, the Administration and the Board of Education, have high expectations of athletes who represent our schools.

Responsibilities

The privilege of participating in our athletic program is extended to all students regardless of sex, providing they are willing to assume certain responsibilities.

The greatest responsibility of an athlete is to be a credit to themselves, their parents, their school, and their community. Therefore, it is required that the athlete:

1. Display high standards of social behavior.
2. Display outstanding sportsmanship.
3. Display proper respect for those in authority (teachers, administrators, officials) and their opponents.
4. Display a real spirit of cooperation.
5. Dress appropriately when attending a contest, whether at home or away. Keep themselves neat, clean, and socially presentable at all times.
6. Use language that is socially acceptable. Profanity, vulgarity, and obscene gestures will not be tolerated on or off the field.

Senior High School Eligibility Rules

In order to represent Valmeyer High School in any interscholastic competition, a student athlete must meet all eligibility requirements of the IHSA as well as those of Valmeyer High School.

1. Age—If you reach 19 years of age, you become ineligible to participate unless your 19^th birthday occurs during a sport season in which you are a participant. In that case you will remain eligible until the end of that sport season.
2. Scholastic standing—To be eligible Scholastically:
   1. You must have passed twenty (20) credit hours of high school work the previous semester to be eligible at all the ensuing semester.
   2. You must be passing twenty (20) credit hours of high school work per week (VALMEYER HIGH SCHOOL POLICY REQUIRES 25 HOURS PER WEEK/SEMESTER). The number of courses you take and the number of hours they meet each week are not the basis for eligibility. It is the amount of credit given for those courses that counts. Grades will be checked each Friday and will be based on the present semester’s work. Ineligibility will begin on the Monday following the Friday grade check, and will continue until the next Monday.
3. The student athlete must attend school the entire day of a contest in order to participate unless the contest falls on a Saturday, holiday, or a day in which school is not officially in session. Missing due to doctor or dentist appointments requires written verification from the doctor or dentist. Exceptions to this rule must be approved by the athletic director or the administration.

The student athlete must turn in, prior to the first practice and regardless of the time, a completed physical, insurance form or an insurance waiver, and school activity permission/health form.

Disciplinary Actions for Senior High

An athlete participant at Valmeyer High School will be subject to disciplinary action if he or she commits any of the following violations:

1. Violation of District #3 Drug Abuse Policy-
   1. Penalties as per policy
2. Use of/or possession of a controlled substance, tobacco, or alcoholic beverage under conditions not covered by District #3 Drug Abuse Policy.
3. Theft or vandalism of any school or personal property.
4. Repeated acts of unsportsmanlike conduct during the season in which the participant is involved, such as cheating, attempting to fight or fighting, verbal abuse of officials, contestants, coaches, spectators, or teammates or continued display of a poor attitude.
5. Conviction of crimes that occur outside school.
6. Violation of school rules and regulations that result in an out-of-school suspension.

First Violation

1. The student athlete will be suspended for 4 of the scheduled games.
2. The suspension will take effect immediately.
3. The student athlete will be required within 48 hours to set up a meeting between the coach, principal, and his/her parents to discuss the suspension.
4. If a person is not currently participating in any athletic activity when the violation occurs, he or she will be suspended during the next athletic activity in which he or she has a record of being a participant.

Second Violation

1. If a student athlete violates the rules a second time he/she will be suspended for 6 of the scheduled games.
2. The suspension will take effect immediately.
3. If a student athlete wishes to participate in sports after a second violation, he/she must seek professional help and have an evaluation completed. If the evaluation recommends a rehabilitation program, the student athlete must participate in, and complete, the program.

Third Violation

The student athlete will not be allowed to participate in sports for the remainder of their senior high school career.

These rules shall be in effect 365 days a year for the student athlete and cheerleaders. The sanctions apply to ALL whether or not they are actively engaged in their activity at the time of the violation.

Junior High Eligibility Rules

1. Age—same as senior high except age is 15.
2. Scholastic—same as senior high except on a quarter basis.
3. "Same" as number three in senior high.

Disciplinary Actions for Junior High

Athletic participants Valmeyer Junior/High Schools will be subject to disciplinary action if he or she commits any of the following violations:

1. Violation of District #3 Drug Abuse Policy-
   1. Penalties as per policy
2. Use of/or possession of a controlled substance, tobacco, or alcoholic beverage under conditions not covered by District #3 Drug Abuse Policy.
3. Theft or vandalism of any school or personal property.
4. Repeated acts of unsportsmanlike conduct during the season in which the participant is involved, such as cheating, attempting to fight or fighting, verbal abuse of officials, contestants, coaches, spectators, or teammates or continued display of a poor attitude.
5. Conviction of crimes that occur outside school.

First Violation

1. The student athlete will be suspended for one scheduled game.
2. The parent will be contacted before the suspension takes effect. If the parent is not in agreement with the suspension, a meeting will be held within 48 hours between the A.D., coach, principal, student, and parents to discuss the suspension.
3. If a person is not currently participating in any athletic activity when the violation occurs, he or she will be suspended during the next athletic activity in which he or she has a record of being a participant.

Second Violation

1. If a student athlete violates the rules a second time he/she will be suspended for two scheduled games.
2. The suspension will take effect immediately.
3. If a student athlete wishes to participate in sports after a second violation, he/she must seek professional help and have an evaluation completed. If the evaluation recommends a rehabilitation program, the student athlete must participate in, and complete, the program.

Third Violation

The student athlete will not be allowed to participate in sports for the remainder of their junior high school career.

These rules shall be in effect 365 days a year for the student athlete and cheerleaders. The sanctions apply to ALL whether or not they are actively engaged in their activity at the time of the violation.

Verification

The following people may verify that a student athlete has violated the rules.

1. Student admission
2. District teachers
3. District administrators
4. Law enforcement officers
5. Human support counselors
6. Parents reporting their own children
7. Reports by other individuals will be checked into by the coaches, sponsors, and/or administration.

Individual Sport Rules

The building principal shall require that all coaches and sponsors of athletic activities have Rules or a Conduct Code for their participants consistent with this policy and the rules adopted by the Illinois High School Association. These rules should contain a notice to participants that failure to abide by them could result in removal from the activity. The Rules of Conduct Code shall be reviewed by the building principal periodically at his or her discretion and be presented to the School Board.

No Pass/ No Play Policy

Extracurricular activities are any activities which are offered to students by the district but are not required nor generate a grade for participation. In order to be eligible to participate in any school sponsored or school supported athletic or extracurricular activity a student must satisfy the Illinois High School Association’s scholastic standing requirements (doing passing work per week). However, Valmeyer District requires 25 credit hours of work passed per week instead of IHSA’s 20 credit hours.

Extracurricular activities include Ensemble and Sextet, play, musicals, FEA, Band and Chorus State Contests, FHA, High School Student Council, National Honor Society, Ecology Club, State and National FFA Conventions, St. Louis Farm Show, non-graded field trips, Cheerleading, and any athletic team participation.

Illinois High School Association (IHSA)

When you become a member of an interscholastic athletic team at your high school, you will find that both your school and the IHSA will have rules you must follow in order to be eligible for interscholastic sports participation. The IHSA’s rules have been adopted by the high schools which are members of IHSA as part of the Association’s constitution and by-laws. They must be followed as minimum standards for all interscholastic athletic competition in any member high school. Your high school may have additional requirements, but they may not be less stringent than these statewide minimums.

The following links will take you to the IHSA web site, where the eligibility rules and the entire IHSA Handbook and By-Laws can be found.

Athletic Eligibility Rules

IHSA Handbook and By-laws

Student Activities

Valmeyer High School offers a wide variety of activities in which students may participate. Each of these activities will be beneficial to the students in terms of their total development. All students are encouraged to take part in these activities. Students who have questions regarding an organization should check with the sponsor.

All School Musical—The music department annually presents a Broadway musical, usually in the fall of the year. Auditions are open to any student in grades 9-12. The musical cast rehearses for 6-10 weeks and presents three performances. Opportunities for technical crew participants are also open to anyone in the school. Orchestra members must be members of the band or chorus or community.

Athletic Club—All athletes are welcomed members of the Athletic Club. The organization is also open to any student interested in helping to promote school spirit. The main goal of our club is to raise money for our spring banquet. The club is also responsible for Senior Night Activities, Pirate Queen Crowning, and Spirit Week.

Booster—Any high school student interested in writing and journalism may join the school newspaper. Four editions are printed annually. Each student is encouraged to write out school issues, clubs, and organizations.

Chorus—Valmeyer High School offers a mixed chorus which is open to anyone who enjoys singing. A variety of music is studied and three concerts are presented each year. The entire chorus participates in either a contest or festival each year and opportunities for participation in solo and ensemble contest are open to each member. Chorus members also make up the nucleus of the all school musical cast. The chorus meets during the regular school day and regular class registration is required.

Future Business Leaders of America—Membership is open to those students enrolled in any business course. FBLA’s purpose is to promote a link between the school, business and community and to offer assistance to the school involving any business/clerical related activities.

Future Farmers of America—The FFA is the national organization of, by, and for students enrolled in Agriculture. The FFA is intra-curricular and originated as part of the high school agriculture curriculum. FFA activities encourage members to learn through active participation how to conduct and take part in public meetings; to speak in public; to solve their own problems; to finance themselves; and to assume civic responsibility. The primary aid of the FFA is the development of agricultural leadership, cooperation, and citizenship.

Future Homemakers of America—The primary purpose of FHA is to further interest in home economics and careers. Membership is open to all students in ninth through twelfth grades. FHA members participate in activities throughout the school year which help build skills and independence in areas with both the school and community. Fund raisers are used throughout the year to earn money to support the club’s activities. Fund raisers are generally hands-on experiences: i.e. bake sales, craft projects, catering at school events.

Girls’ Sextet—The girls’ sextet is also a select auditioned ensemble of six member. The group rehearses before and after school and sings three part treble music with two singers per part. The group performs at the three school concerts, in solo and ensemble contest, and regularly for school and community functions. They represent our school and music department in the community. Participants must be members of the mixed chorus.

Junior Class Play—The Junior Class Play is normally the first or second weekend in April. Tryouts are held in the beginning of second semester. Check the announcements for information.

Mixed Ensemble—The mixed ensemble is a select, auditioned group of 12-16 singers with equal division of men and women. The group rehearses before and after school, at least twice per week. They perform at the three school concerts, in solo and ensemble contest, and regularly for school and community functions. They are considered to be ambassadors of the school and music department. Participants must be members of the mixed chorus.

National Honor Society—Membership in NHS is based on leadership, scholarship, character and service with an emphasis on scholarship. Sophomores are eligible with a grade point average of 3.4, juniors with a 3.2, and seniors with a 3.0. The faculty council surveys academically eligible students to determine interest in membership and to obtain information regarding service and leadership activities. Students are selected by a 7-member faculty council which includes two nonvoting members, the advisor and principal.

Student Council—The purpose of the Student Council is to provide an avenue for student expression; promote the general welfare of the school; act as a liaison among students, faculty and administration; provide an orderly direction of school activities; encourage high standards of scholarship; develop good school/community relations; develop student leadership; and encourage good school spirit.

TREND—Turning Resources and Energy in New Directions encourages healthy alternatives to drug and alcohol use. Students are encouraged to be drug and alcohol free, provides education, alternative entertainment, peer support skills, and community involvement.

Yearbook Staff—Membership selection is made by the advisor based on student interest, his/her after-school availability, and current student activity load. Membership is limited to approximately 30 active students. Students learn the basics of photo selection, page layout and completion, and computer operation leading to the completion of the yearbook. Also, interested students are taught the basics of photography.

Future Educators of America—The primary purpose of FEA is to introduce students to the teaching profession and to give them opportunities to experience classroom teaching, modeling and observations. Membership is open to all students in ninth through twelfth grade. Members will be expected to fulfill the obligations of membership.

Section IV
Discipline Procedure

Discipline Preamble

When breaches of school disciplinary rules and regulations occur, it is the responsibility of involved teachers and administrators to work with the student, his/her parents, and other support personnel to help the student correct his behavior. All disciplinary actions should be directed toward protecting the welfare of the school community as well as helping the student develop self-discipline. When determining the response for a specific breach of discipline, school personnel must consider the nature of the act, the student's previous history, his/her age and maturity, any mitigating circumstance, and the effect of his/her actions on the welfare of the school community. Disciplinary responses may include, but are not limited to the following: detention, classroom detention, out-of-school suspension, and expulsion.

Referrals

The goal of the school is to allow students to attend school in a self-disciplined climate. Whenever a student is referred to the office for disciplinary reasons, the principal will attempt to end the incident through counseling whenever possible, if the incident is of a minor nature. The principal may also refer the student to the school counselor if the principal feels this will be in the best interest of the student.

Detention

Detention is action taken for minor disciplinary or repeated disciplinary problems. Students are assigned to attend detention from 3:15-4:15 p.m. Occasionally detention may be before school. Students who are assigned detentions will be given at least 24 hours notice.

Each student is responsible for his or her own transportation to detention. If this is a problem, then the action which caused the student to be assigned detention should never have been committed in the first place.

Employment, personal plans, activities or transportation problems are not sufficient cause to postpone or drop a detention.

Classroom Detention

Many teachers prefer to assign detentions to their own room so that work or supervision may be done by them rather than by another teacher. Therefore, we reserve the right to allow teachers to require students to serve detentions in their room for minor disciplinary matters. These are assigned either before school, as the teacher deems necessary. Again, the guideline of 24 hour notice will be adhered to.

Alternative Classroom

This will be used as a supplemental consequence for offenses that can result in out-of-school suspension. Social interaction with other students is severely restricted and the student will work on academic work the entire time. Students will receive credit for work completed in the alternative classroom. Students will be allowed to serve in the alternative classroom for no more than (4) infractions throughout the school year.

Out-of-School Suspension

This is a very serious consequence that will be used in serious or major disciplinary incidents. Suspension from school means that a student is not permitted on school property nor can a student participate in or attend any type of school related activity. Additionally, suspension is considered an unexcused absence and the student will receive a "0" for the worked missed in each class.

Expulsion

If a student has committed a very serious action (gross disobedience) or has had repeated behavioral problems, he or she may be recommended to the Board of Education for expulsion from school. Expulsion may be for a length of time as determined by the Board after conducting a hearing.

Student Rights

A student has a right to present his or her information pertaining to an incident as a part of the relevant collection of data prior to suspension or expulsion. This normally occurs in the principal's office prior to a decision being made or a disposition of the incident occurs. However, a student and parent still have the right to appeal any action taken with the Superintendent should they so desire.

Classroom Suspension

Teachers, with approval of the administration, have the right to suspend and on some occasions exclude students from the classroom when the behavior of a student reportedly causes a disruption of the classroom.

 Section V
Consequences

Introduction

It would be impossible to list all possible disruptive offenses that could be committed in a school setting. As conditions warrant, the administration may add additional infractions and consequences for the protection and welfare of students and staff.

The punishments listed after each violation are guidelines for the 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd offenses. Students readily admitting guilt may receive lesser punishments than those listed, and certain infractions may receive consequences more or less severe than those listed, depending on individual circumstances. Habitual offenders may also receive harsher consequences than those listed.

W = warning, D = detention, # = number of days suspended or assigned to alternative classroom, E = expulsion.

Unauthorized Items:

Illinois State Code prohibits the use of electronic signaling devices (beepers/pagers), and cellular phones. In addition, radios, CD players, laser pointers, noise makers, sun glasses, hats, pocket knives, cigarette lighters, gum, water shooting devices, drink containers, or any other items that divert attention from the education process are not to be in the school during school hours. Items may be confiscated by the administration and not returned. School officials have the right to search your book bag, coat, purse, locker, wallet, car, etc. if there is reasonable suspicion that the student may have violated school rules.

(D, 1, 2)

Heavy coats, back-packs, tote-bags, etc. will not be allowed in the classrooms. They must be put in lockers upon arriving at school and may not be taken out until student is leaving school.

(W, D, 1)

Inappropriate Display of Public Affection:

Any display of affection at school or school related functions. This includes hand-holding, arms around one another, kissing, etc.

(W, D, 1)

Dress and Grooming:

Wearing caps or other headgear, clothing that expresses profanity, obscenity, or references to alcohol, tobacco or drugs, or clothing that presents health or safety hazards or interferes with the learning climate of the school, is prohibited.

(W, D, 1)

Littering:

To willfully throw trash items on school property or on private property to and from school.

(W, D, 1)

Disorderly Conduct, Profanity, Obscene Behavior:

Conduct and/or behavior which is disruptive to the orderly operation of the school.

(D, 1, 2)

Slander/Libel:

The spreading of rumors or gossip verbally, or in writing to purposely defame the character of another student.

(W, D, 1)

Cheating:

Academic misconduct including the use of unauthorized material, plagiarism or assistance on tests or assignments. No credit will be given for this work.

(D, 1, 3)

Forgery:

Writing and using the signature or initials of another person.

(1, 2, 3)

Possession of Tobacco:

The use or possession of tobacco on school property.

(1, 3, 5)

Gambling:

Participating in games of chance for the purpose of exchanging money.

(W, 1, 2)

Misuse of Driving Privilege:

Sitting in cars, sitting on or on top of a moving vehicle, riding in the back of a pick-up truck, or driving during the school day without permission.

(1, 3, 5)

Disruption or Interference:

Participating in any behavior which substantially disrupts or materially interferes with, or is likely to disrupt or interfere with, any school function, activity, or purpose.

(W, 1, 3)

Inability to Adjust:

Inability to adjust to the demands of school life as evidenced by continuing misconduct and poor grades.

(W, 1, 3)

Chronic Misbehavior:

When a student has been given several referrals by several teachers for chronic disruption of class, the student may be suspended or recommended for expulsion, if deemed appropriate by the administration.

Failure to Attend Detention:

Failing to attend a detention assigned by teachers/administration for misconduct.

(D & 1, 3, 5) (The detention is reassigned and additional consequences apply.)

Defiance of School Personnel’s Authority:

Refusal to comply with a reasonable request of school personnel.

(2, 5, 10)

Threats or Intimidation:

Threats of violence. Threatening or intimidating any student, teacher, or other school employee or visitor.

(2, 5, 10)

All cars on parking lot will be impounded immediately upon receiving a bomb threat, or any other threat of violence.

Interfering With School Purposes:

Interfering with school purposes or with the orderly operation of the school by using, threatening to use, or counseling other persons to use violence, force, coercion, threats, intimidation, fear, or disruptive means.

(2, 5, 10)

Theft:

The taking of property not belonging to the student.

(2, 5, 10)

Destruction or Defacement of School Property:

The destroying or mutilation of objects or materials of the school.

(2, 5, 10)

Violation of Local, State, or Federal Law:

Involvement in any conduct on school premises or during a school function or event which violates local, state, or federal law, where such conduct or the likelihood of such conduct poses a clear and present danger to the health, welfare, or safety of other students, teachers, employees, or visitors.

(3, 5, 10)

False Fire Alarm:

Making a false fire alarm or any other knowingly false and disruptive rumor or report.

(3, 5, 10)

Truancy:

Leaving school without permission.

(2, 5, 10)

Skipping class/ Leaving class without permission.

(1, 2, 5)

Sexual Harassment:

Inappropriate comments, gestures, advances or touching that is unwanted by the victim that could be interpreted as sexual in nature. This is a serious offense, and should be reported immediately to the nurse, counselor, or principal.

(D, 1, 3)

The school recognizes that the issue of whether sexual harassment has occurred requires a factual determination based on all the evidence received. The school also recognizes that false accusations of sexual harassment can have serious effects on innocent men and women. We trust that all students will continue to act in a responsible manner to establish a pleasant learning environment free of discrimination.

Alcohol:

The use of alcoholic beverages prior to coming to school and school activities; the use or possession of alcoholic beverages on school property or at school activities.

(3, 5, 10)

Drugs:

Possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia on school property, use of drugs at school or just prior to coming to school, transfer of any stimulating, depressing, or behavior-altering substance (or lookalike) without a medical prescription, including any form of hallucinogenic drug or marijuana.

(E) Reduced penalties will be considered with drug counseling.

Fighting:

Engaging in physical contact for the purpose of inflicting harm on another person.

(3, 5, 10)

Physical Attack:

Physical attack of one person, or a group of persons, upon another who does not wish to engage in the conflict, and who has not provoked the attack.

(5, 10, E)

Possession of a Weapon:

The use or possession of any weapon as defined by statute used to inflict bodily harm. Illinois State Law requires expulsion for a period not less than one year.

(E)

Any students who are aware of threats of violence or potential threats of violence should report the information to the principal, counselor, or any other employee of the school. They may also use the school violence tip line number:

1-800-447-0024.