2010-2011 STUDENT HANDBOOK
77 School Road
Locust Fork, Alabama 35097
Phone: 681-7846
Fax: 681-6175

Principal—Mr. Daniel Smith
Assistant Principal—Mr. Tim Clevenger

SCHOOL MOTTO
Leadership
For The Future
Helping Students
Succeed

SCHOOL HOURS
School Begins 7:45 A.M.
School Dismisses 2:50 P.M.
Teachers on Duty 7:30 A.M—3:15 P.M.

www.locustforkhornets.com

STUDENT PLANNER POLICY

Organization and accountability are keys to success in the school environment.  In order to help our students learn organization practices and stay organized, student planners are required for all Locust Fork High School students in the 2010-2011 year. Student planners contain the LFHS handbook and calendars.  Additionally, agendas serve as student hall passes. Therefore, students must keep their agendas with them at all times. Students will not be allowed outside of class without a handbook.

2011-2012 Examination Schedule

Semester One
                First 9 weeks                                        Oct. 14
                Second 9 weeks                                  Dec. 21
Semester Two
                Third 9 weeks                                      Mar. 9
                Fourth 9 weeks                                    May 24   
High School Graduation Exam
Sept. 19 thru Sept. 23, 2011
Dec. 5 thru Dec. 10, 2011
Feb. 19 thru March 23, 2012

Standford-10/ARMT
April 9-20, 2012

Report Card Dates
First 9 weeks—10/28/11                  Second 9 weeks—1/12/12
Third 9 weeks—3/16/12                   Fourth 9 weeks—5/25/12 mailed home

2010-2011 Student Fees

Students enrolled in the following courses are required to pay the following annual fees upon registration for each school year.  Other courses may require additional fees.
                Area Vocational Center Lab            $40.00
                Computer Lab                                 $25.00
                Family and Consumer Science         $20.00
                Vocational Agribusiness                  $20.00
                Biology                                            $15.00
                Chemistry and Physics                    $10.00
                Driver’s Education                           $25.00
                Band                                               $30.00
Miscellaneous Fees
Automobile Parking Permits                            $10.00
                Student Lockers/Handbooks          $15.00

Student Fees Subject to change. No fees will be reimbursed after the first two (2) weeks of school.

Activity feesIf your child is planning to participate in a school sponsored activity; all fees and/or related charges should be paid no later than 10 days prior to the activity. In the event that the sponsor of the activity agrees to accept payment at a later day, payment must be made in the form of cash or a money order. Personal checks will not be accepted.

Welcome to
Locust Fork High School

Mission Statement

We welcome you to Locust Fork High School. We hope your stay with us will be both pleasant and profitable. You will find this school has a friendly student body and a faculty willing at all times to help you. In this school, as in any school, you will find that success in your academic work, as in other phases of your life, depends, to a great extent, on the effort that you put forth in attaining success. We urge you to assume a positive attitude toward school work and devote considerable time to your studies. We also urge you to become interested and participate in one or more of the various extra-curricular activities of our school; such as, athletics, clubs, and other student organizations.

Locust Fork High School is noted for its fine school spirit and takes pride in the achievements of its present and former students. The outstanding record of students in academics, band and athletics, the high standards of sportsmanship, the friendly atmosphere on the campus and in the classroom have all helped to create and maintain “The Hornet Spirit.”

This is YOUR school. Keep it clean. Keep it productive and exciting. Be loyal to its traditions and standards. Attend it with pride.

Your Success in school is directly proportional to the efforts you put forth.

CATCH THE HORNET SPIRIT!
Courtesy—Pride—Sportsmanship

• Courtesy—Toward teachers, fellow students, and the officials of school activities.
• Pride—In everything our school endeavors to accomplish and has accomplished.
• Sportsmanship—The ability to win and lose gracefully.

INTRODUCTION

The policies and procedures contained in this handbook are the results of a concerted effort on the part of the faculty and the administration. This information has been carefully prepared and presented so that it will be of great value in helping you to adjust to our school and to become an important part of it.

The ultimate purpose of education is to help each student become an effective citizen in a democracy. The goal of Locust Fork High School is to help our student develop and accept the responsibilities and obligations of good citizenship. Doing so will prepare them to live a productive life in our complex society.

THE HISTORY OF OUR SCHOOL

The first school in the Locust Fork community was established in 1841.  It was taught in a Methodist church called “The Tabernacle.” The next school was built in the area where Pine Bluff Church now stands.  The school was called Pine Bluff School.

The first school on this site was built in 1923, and it was called Locust Fork School.  Mr. James E. Pass was the first principal.  In 1927, Mr. Homer Good operated the first school bus. On February 27, 1931, a delegation from Locust Fork met with the Blount County Board of Education to ask for a high school, but no action was taken until 1937. The class of 1938 was the graduating class of Locust Fork High School.  Also, in 1938 our football team won the county championship. A communication system was installed in the school and on April 22, 1940, Mr. Blackwood, who was principal, informed the school that Locust Fork High had been fully accredited. In 1949, the Vocational Agricultural and Home Economics Departments were added to the campus.
               
Tragedy struck Locust Fork when it burned on January 10,1961.  Classrooms were set up in available chicken houses and other makeshift areas.  In the spring, graduation was held on schedule. The school was rebuilt and in the 1970’s several additions were made including a new gym, a new elementary wing, and the band room.  The school also added two new high school rooms and four elementary rooms, which were completed in 1980.  Eight additional classrooms were completed in 1998.  Ten more classrooms were added in 2000. In 2006, major improvements were made to the campus including a new cafetorium, 7 new classrooms and a new science lab.

PHILOSOPHY

We, the faculty of Locust Fork High School, continue to believe that the major purpose of education is to prepare the student for life. As educators, we have a desire and responsibility to help each student grow intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. In addition to growth in these areas, we desire to instill within each student a hunger for knowledge, an appreciation of the aesthetic, the will to succeed, self-control, acceptable social and moral principles, and a true sense of patriotism. We believe that the fulfillment of these goals will help to insure that each student will attain a respectable place in society.

Realizing that the skills needed for placement in the ever-changing job market range from those of an academic nature to those of technology, commercial arts, and the many trades, the faculty will cooperate with the administration and community in providing courses with experience that reflect each student’s interests and goals.

Moreover, we are aware that an atmosphere within the school environment conducive to learning is a necessary factor in the growth process. Hence, the faculty will encourage students in the development of self-motivation and self-discipline. This growth process will be fostered by: encouraging students to express opinions: accept responsibility for decisions; respect the rights and opinions of others; and abide by the rules of the school and the laws of the land. A student behaves in a more socially acceptable manner when able to experience a feeling of self-worth and well-being. Therefore, we will try to accommodate the various levels of interest and ability in each student. This will allow the student to achieve an optimum degree of success.

To implement our philosophy we shall endeavor:
• To periodically reassess and modify our curriculum and our teaching methods to meet the needs of students with their interests and capabilities.
• To foster critical thinking and problem solving skills in our students.
• To instill in students an appreciation of the fundamental dignity and worth of every individual.
• To provide a foundation in the basic skills and to make students aware of their own abilities so that, with the proper guidance, they will make a satisfactory adjustment to a rapidly changing society.
• To stimulate patriotism and loyalty to the American way of life by emphasizing the basic concepts of democracy.

LOCUST FORK HIGH SCHOOL ONLINE
www.locustforkhornets.com
Our website provides a comprehensive collection of information about our school, its policies, and its events.
Students, parents, and teachers can communicate through class web pages and email.INOW Home Portal is avaliable for parents to track their child's progress but will be temporarily unavaliable until January 2012.Valuable resources such as educational links, career opportunities, and scholarship opportunities are also available. Student achievement is highlighted in academics, community service, athletics, and music. Student life is chronicled in web pages devoted to clubs, organizations, and special events, such as prom and homecoming.
Alumni can also feel permanently connected to Locust Fork High School through alumni news, past annuals which are available online, and an alumni directory which maintains the latest information about classmates.
www.locustforkhornets.com

SCHOOL CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

LFHS has various student clubs and organizations. Students are encouraged to explore their interests and enhance their educational experience by participating in these organizations. For more information, contact the sponsor listed.

Art Club—Mrs. Douglas
Family, Career, & Community Leaders of America—Mrs. Bender
Future Farmers of America—Mr. Newton
First Priority / Prayer Club—Student Led
Mu Alpha Theta—Ms. Matson
National Junior Honor Society—Mrs. Courington
National Honor Society—Ms. Matson
Student Council—Mrs. McMinn
Student Ambassadors- Mrs. McMinn

Web Page-Mr. Taylor

Jr. Master Gardners-Mrs. Brewer

Alabama Wildlife Federation-Mrs. Butler

CHARACTER COUNTS!
at LOCUST FORK HIGH SCHOOL

Herbert Spencer said, “Education has for its object the formation of character.” Thus, as we begin a new year of our Character Education program we continue to encourage parental and community involvement both inside, and outside the classroom to help develop the character of our students.

Character Education is necessary because:
• The next generation will be the stewards of our communities, nation and planet in extraordinarily critical times.
• The present and future well-being of our society requires an involved, caring, citizenry with good moral character.
• People do not automatically develop good moral character; therefore, conscientious efforts must be made to instruct young people in the values and abilities necessary for moral decision making and conduct.
• These core values transcend cultural, religious, and socio-economic differences.
• The character and conduct of our youth reflect the character and conduct of society; therefore, every adult has the responsibility to teach and model the core ethical values and every social institution has the responsibility to promote the development of good character.

This year we will continue with the Character Education Program entitled Character Counts!. This program focuses on improving the ethical quality of society by advocating principled reasoning and ethical decision- making. The program revolves around six pillars of character. These pillars are T.R.R.F.C.C. Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship. The administration, faculty and staff are committed to helping our students become young people of character; therefore, these qualities will be promoted and modeled on a daily basis in LFHS. For more information about this program visit www.charactercounts.org or www.locustforkhornets.com

CHARACTER COUNTS!
SIX PILLARS OF CHARACTER

TRUSTWORTHINESS
• Be honest.
• Don’t deceive, cheat, or steal.
• Be reliable—do what you say you’ll do.
• Build a good reputation.
• Have the courage to do the right thing.

RESPECT
• Treat others the way you want to be treated.
• Be tolerant of differences.
• Use good manners, not bad language.
• Be considerate of the feelings of others.
• Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone.
• Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements.

RESPONSIBILITY
• Use self-control; be self-disciplined.
• Think before you act—consider the consequences.
• Be accountable for your choices.
• Always do your best.

FAIRNESS
• Play by the rules. Take turns and share.
• Be open-minded; listen to others.
• Don’t take advantage of others.
• Don’t blame others carelessly.

CARING
• Be kind. Help people in need.
• Be compassionate and show you care.
• Express gratitude.
• Forgive others.

CITIZENSHIP
• Do your share to make your school and community better.
• Cooperate.
• Stay informed; vote.
• Obey laws and rules.
• Respect authority.
• Protect the environment.
Blount County Board of Education
Requirements for Graduation

The following is a list of graduation requirements for Blount County High Schools. Students must earn a minimum total of 24 units of credit in grades 9 through 12. The 24 units must include one unit of physical education and one-half unit in health education.

ALABAMA HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA

9th Grade
1. English
2. Social Studies
3. Science
4. Algebra 1A
5. Physical Education (P.E.)
6. Health (one-half credit)
7. Computer Literacy (one-half credit)

10th Grade English
1. English
2. History
3. Science
4. Math
5. Elective
6. Elective
7. Driver's Ed.

11th Grade
1. English
2. American History
3. Geometry A
4. Science
5. Elective
6. Elective
7. Elective

12th Grade
1. English
2. Government/ Economics
3. Math
4. Sceince
5. Elective
6. Elective
7. Elective

ALABAMA HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA
ADVANCED ACADEMIC ENDORSEMENT

9th Grade
1. English
2. Social Studies
3. Science
4. Algebra I **
5. Physical Education (P.E.)
6. Health/Fine Art
7. Computer Literacy

10th Grade
1. English
2. History
3. Sceince
4. Math
5. Foreign Language
6. Elective
7. Driver's Ed.

ADVANCED DIPLOMA CONT.

11th Grade
1. English
2. American History
3. Algebra II with Trigonometry**
4. Science
5. Elective
6. Elective
7. Foreign Language

12th Grade
1. English
2. History
3. Math
4. Science
5. Elective
6. Elective
7. Elective

Beginning with the freshman class for the 2009-2010 school year and thereafter, the Alabama High School Diploma with Advanced Academic Endorsement will be the default diploma for all regularveducation students. Parents/Guardians may complete an Alabama High School Diploma Endorsement Change Request Form at the end of any semester or grade after the student has completed or attempted the ninth grade. Diploma options for special education students should be determined by the student, parent/guardian, and the IEP team.

* The student must pass the Alabama High School Graduation Examination. The examination is first given in grade ten.

** Four units of math and science are required. They need not be limited to these courses. Two units of foreign language are required for the advanced diplomas. Electives are subjects the student may choose. The choices should be made according to the interest of the student and their areas of preparation for a vocation.

*** All students will be required to earn a credit in Math, Science, English and Social Studies each year in grades 9-12.

**** Students may not drop a course due to failing grades. Any schedule changes will occur only at the end of a semester and only with the approval of the administration. Classes are designed to be taken for a full year.

LOCUST FORK GRADUATION POLICY

1. No student will receive their diploma until they have successfully met the requirements for graduation set forth by the State Department of Education and the Blount County Board of Education.
2. No student will be allowed to order a cap and gown or invitations unless:
• They are bonafide seniors, placed in a senior homeroom at the beginning of the school year.
• They are scheduled to complete requirements for graduation on or before the last day of school during the regular school term.
• Students order caps and gowns, invitations, etc. from independent companies and not from the school. If a student fails and has already paid for the above items, it will be necessary for him to deal with the company as far as refunds are concerned. The school will not be able to make refunds on these items.

DIPLOMAS AND CERTIFICATES

Any student who meets attendance requirements but does not acquire the specific Carnegie Units in a defined program and/or fails to pass all sections of the Alabama High School Graduation Examination, shall be awarded a Certificate of Attendance upon completion of his/her senior year.

MAKE UP/ EXTRA COURSES

Students who plan to take extra courses during the year, i.e. night school, must have prior approval of the administration.

ATTENDANCE

Students living in Blount County must enroll in the assigned school that serves the designated district where the student and parent or legal guardian resides. Students may transfer to another Blount County school only if there is a change in residence into another designated district by the parent or legal guardian or by approval of the receiving principal.

Alabama law requires that all children between the ages of seven and sixteen be enrolled in and attend school.  In addition, new state law amendments (AL. Codes 16-28-16, as amended by Act 1999-705) provide that all children who choose to enroll in school, even if not of compulsory school age, are subject to the school attendance and truancy laws of the state.  All students should attend school regularly and be punctual for all classes in order to receive the greatest benefit from the instructional program and develop habits of punctuality, self-discipline, and individual responsibility.  There is a direct relationship between poor attendance and class failure.  Students who have good attendance generally achieve higher grades and enjoy school more.  Attendance at school shall be one of the factors considered in determining the promotion of a student from one grade to another or in any given course.

According to the Alabama State Department of Education, excused absences are as follows:

• Student illness
• Death in the immediate family
• Emergency conditions as determined by the principal
• Legal quarantine
• Summons to court
• Prior permission of the principal as requested by parent or legal guardian

All other absences are unexcused and will be marked accordingly in the attendance register.  If a student’s absences exceed five days in a nine weeks grading period and there is reason to believe the student was not too ill to attend school, the student may be required to submit a doctor’s statement verifying the illness in order for him/her to receive credit for the nine weeks grading period.  No passing grade for nine weeks will be given to a student whose unexcused absences exceed three days.  Additionally, no passing grade for a semester will be given to any student whose unexcused absences exceed five days for that semester. 

Ten absences per semester shall be considered the maximum number of absences allowed for students to receive a passing grade in a class or course.  Decisions regarding more than ten absences per semester may be modified by verified physician’s medical excuses.  Attendance in each individual class will be counted to determine if the absence maximum has been exceeded for that class.

Students who are absent from school, must bring a written note, specifying the reason for the absence, upon his/her return to school.  A parent/guardian or a physician must sign the note.  The dated and signed statement must contain the student’s name and a reason for the absence(s), date(s) of the absence(s), and must provide a phone number where the parent/guardian may be reached for verification purposes.  The written statement will be presented to a designated person in the school upon the student’s return.  This person will present the student with an “ADMIT TO CLASS (ATC)” form.  The original excuse will be retained on file in the school office.  The “ATC” form will state the nature of the absence as excused or unexcused.  It will be the responsibility of the student to show the “ATC” form to his/her classroom teacher(s).  Each classroom teacher will record the status of each absence in the grade book.  The student will be allowed to make up work only for excused absences.  At the time the “ATC” is submitted, the student should inquire about any missed assignments and make arrangements for make-up work.  No assignments will be made up for credit for unexcused absences.  In the event that a student fails to bring a written note upon his/her return to school following an absence, a temporary “ATC” will be issued to the student.  This “ATC” will be coded unexcused.  Students have three school days from the last day missed to bring in an excuse or the absence remains unexcused.

MAKE UP WORK

For the first ten absences each semester, students will be eligible for make-up work, as long as the absence has been coded excused according to guidelines of this policy, and the student presents his/her “ATC” form to the teacher and makes arrangements to make up the missed work.
After a tenth absence from school or class in any one semester, no make-up work will be given without a doctor’s statement or principal’s permission.  Principal’s permission is to be used primarily for events beyond a student’s control (i.e., extended illness, family death, etc.).

It is the student’s responsibility to present the coded excuse (“ATC” form) to each teacher.  If the student is eligible to make up missed work, he/she in cooperation with the teacher, must make arrangements for make-up work or tests.  Such work or tests should be completed within a reasonable time as determined by the teacher and/or school administrator.  (Note:  This procedure shall also be followed for make-up work missed due to time away from school for approved school-related activities.)

A grade of zero will be received for work or tests missed on the day of any unexcused absence and for any absence past the tenth per semester without a doctor’s excuse or principal’s permission.

Homebound services may be provided for qualified students, (as determined by the Board of Education) after a two (2) week absence for high school students.

Students may use a parent/guardian note for a maximum of five school days per semester.  Any additional absences must be accompanied by a Dr.’s excuse or legal notice; otherwise the absence is unexcused and the student is considered truant.  After the third unexcused absence, students are referred to the Blount County Board of Education Attendance Officer and the parent/guardian will be contacted.  If subsequent referrals are made to the Attendance Officer, the parent/guardian and student will be referred to juvenile court.
                       
Once a student arrives on campus, he/she may not leave school grounds during school hours without permission of the administration.  This includes going to his/her car for any reason.  In the case of illness of a student during the school day, the administration may take appropriate measures as required. 

CHECK-IN / CHECK-OUT PROCEDURE

Passes to leave school – Pupils shall not leave school grounds during school hours except for EXCUSED REASONS ONLY. This must be requested by a parent or guardian and must be approved by the administration. Parents must call or come by. Signing in or out will be completed in the office.

TARDINESS

To School – After three (3) tardies per semester a student will be required to attend detention, be suspended, or issued any other type of punishment as deemed necessary by the administration.
To Class – No one should ever be late to class; however students who are late will be disciplined with student discipline referrals or as deemed necessary by the teacher.

HALL PASSES

No student is allowed to leave any class, library, or P.E. without a properly signed pass by the teacher in charge. If a student needs to go to the office, he/she should go to the teacher first. If the teacher thinks it is a valid reason, he/she will write the excuse. The teacher is the screening agent for students leaving class. Students must not leave a teacher’s room without a handbook properly initialed and filled out by the teacher in charge. Students may not fill out the hall pass portion of the handbook.

RESPECT AND COURTESY

Respect to teachers, school employees, other students and visitors is a tradition at our school. Each of us should strive to be considerate of others. Respect and obey the judgment of school officials with courtesy. Follow any request or directive given by teachers, even though you may or may not have them in class. Rudeness will result in disciplinary action.

TEACHER AUTHORITY

Any teacher can and should correct any student at any place on campus, whether that student is assigned to that teacher or not.

CLASSROOM CONDUCT
WORK AND STUDY HABITS

We believe every student at LFHS has the right to learn and every teacher at LFHS has the right to teach. Students must be allowed to study and participate in a school/classroom environment conducive to the learning process at all times. Students who violate the rights of other students to learn by disrupting the teaching/learning process will be subject to disciplinary actions. Students are expected to come to class prepared to learn with the proper attitude, paper, pencil, books and other required supplies as requested by the teacher. Students are expected to fulfill all assignments given by the teachers and it is the student’s responsibility to ask questions of the teacher if an assignment is not understood.

ACADEMIC CONDUCT AND HONESTY POLICY

Locust Fork High School and the Blount County Board of Education have established a clear philosophical foundation for the expectation of integrity and authenticity for all student work. Teachers need to know exactly what each student is capable of doing in order to assess student proficiencies and progress. Therefore, we expect students to represent their own work honestly and accurately at all times.

Students should each assume personal responsibility for achieving their educational goals. High standards and expectations are set for all students. A climate of trust and respect is essential for an effective learning environment

Academic Honesty is…
Doing your own work, crediting others’ words, pictures, facts and ideas, keeping your eyes on your own paper, not copying, and using electronic sources with integrity.

Academic Dishonesty is…
1. Cheating—presenting as your own work something you did not do.
• Copying from someone else’s paper, using notes (unless expressly allowed by the teacher), altering an exam for re-grading
• helping someone else cheat
• obtaining an advance copy of an exam or obtaining an answer key to exams/assignments
• “Wandering eyes”—allowing one’s eyes to stray to another person’s work on quizzes or tests
• Re-writing another’s paper(s) and presenting it as your own work
• Copying assignments
• Talking during designated quiz and test time

2. Plagiarism—stealing and using ideas and writings of another as one’s own work.
• Using another writer’s words without proper citation. When using another writer’s words you must place quotation marks around the quoted material and include proper documentation. When paraphrasing, proper documentation must always be included as well.
• Borrowing all or part of another student’s paper or using someone else’s outline to write your own paper.
• Using a paper writing “service” or having a friend write the paper for you. Regardless if it is a stranger or a friend, it is academically dishonest to hand in work that is not your own.

Any student who violates the academic honesty policy will be disciplined according to behavior policies and consequences as outlined on page 25 of the student handbook.

DISCIPLINE POLICIES

Introduction
Instruction should occur in an environment that is conducive to learning. Good order and discipline are basic elements of such an environment and contribute to an atmosphere in which students and school personnel work cooperatively toward mutually recognized and accepted goals.

As students progress through Locust Fork High School, they will be expected to assume greater responsibility for their actions as they age and mature. The procedures described in this Code of Conduct shall apply to all students in grades 7-12.

One of the most important lessons education should teach is discipline. While it does not appear as a subject, it underlies the whole educational structure. It is the training that develops self-control, character, orderliness, and efficiency. It is the key to good conduct and proper consideration for other people.

With an understanding of the purpose of discipline in a school, you may form a correct attitude toward it, and not only do your part in making your school an effective part of learning, but develop the habit of self-restraint which will make you a better person.

Purpose
The students, faculty and administration look upon the following standards as a means of developing worthy habits of conduct through the enlightened use of self-discipline.

Aim
Every pupil is expected at all times to keep in mind that his/her conduct should not interfere with the rights of others, rather that it should be an example to others. Students guilty of the following offences are subject to suspension, expulsion, or other disciplinary action as deemed necessary by the administration.

POLICY AGAINST RELIGIOUS, RACIAL, SEXUAL AND VIOLENT HARRASSMENT

Everyone at Locust Fork High School has the right to feel respected and safe. Therefore, we take our policy to prevent religious, racial, sexual and violent harassment of any kind very seriously. Bullying and or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.

A harasser may be a student or an adult. Harassment or bullying may include, but is not limited to the following when related to religion, race, or gender.
• Name calling, jokes, or rumors
• Pulling clothing
• Graffiti
• Notes or cartoons
• Unwelcome touching of a person or clothing
• Offensive or graphic clothing, posters, book covers, stickers, drawings
• Any words or actions that make you feel uncomfortable, embarrass you, hurt your feelings, or make you feel bad
If any words or actions make you feel uncomfortable or fearful, you need to tell a teacher, counselor, or the principal.

Your right to privacy will be respected as much as possible. All reports of religious, racial, sexual or violent harassment will be taken seriously and all appropriate actions will be taken.

SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE PLAN

1. Report to school and to all classes on time and be seated.
2. Listen the first time instructions are given and obey these instructions.
3. Respect individuals and their property. Keep your hands, feet, objects and inappropriate comments to yourself.
4. Bring all books and materials to class everyday and participate in all learning activities as directed by the teachers.
5. NO PROFANITY

If the student chooses to break a school-wide rule or a classroom rule, the student may be reprimanded according to the nature of the violation. Classroom teacher and/or administration discretion may be taken as deemed necessary.

FIGHTING
Fighting is not how to settle an argument or a disagreement. Fighting will not be tolerated at Locust Fork High School. Students that feel harassed by students physically or verbally should report to their teacher, the counselor, or the school administration. Students involved in a fight will be suspended for two days after their first fight. Students involved in a second fight could be carried before the Blount County Board of Education for a disciplinary hearing and/or alternative school. NEW!! Students encouraging fighting by cheering, taunting, or spreading false truths will be considered guilty of fighting as well as the participants of the fight.

CELL PHONES

Board policy 5.7 Electronic Communication Devices:

Students are prohibited from carrying or having in their possession, in lockers, or anywhere else in the school buildings or on the school grounds, except in motor vehicles that shall be kept locked, unoccupied, and unvisited during the school day, electronic communication devices including but not limited cell phones, BlackBerrys, i-pods and two- way radios.

First Offense:

Take up cell phone or other communication device, hold for seven school days, parents must pick up cell phone or other communication device from administration AND (school administration) choice of Saturday School/ Detention/ Parent Conference.

Second Offense:

Take up the cell phone or other communication device, hold for nine weeks of school plus automatic one-day suspension.

Third Offense:

Take up cell phone or other communication device, hold for the remainder of the school year or up to one year plus (school administration) choice of two-day suspension or five to ten day Alternative School assignment.

Board Approved: April7,2008

Other Prohibited Items

• Headgear-i.e. sunglasses, hats, caps, hoods, bandannas, and toboggans
• Pajama Pants
• Playing Cards
• Chewing Gum
• Students may not have food/drink items delivered from local restaurants/stores
• Laser Pointers
• Radios/CD/Mp3 players, Tape Recorders, TVs, Digital Cameras, ect.
• Two-way Radios, Pagers, Cell Phones, Beepers
• Chains, Bracelets with spikes or studs
• Duffel Bags/ carry bags other than clear or mesh
• ANY OTHER ARTICLE(S) WHICH THE ADMINISTRATION CHOOSES TO PROHIBIT.

ANY PROHIBITED ARTILES TAKEN UP IN SCHOOL ARE NOT THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE SCHOOL AND MAY NOT BE RETURNED TO THE STUDENT.

TOBACCO

Use or possession of tobacco in any form is expressly prohibited on school premises and school buses or any school function.

WEAPONS

Students are prohibited from bringing to the school campus, having in their possession, vehicles, or in their lockers any lethal weapons or facsimile including guns of any type, knives, bayonets, razors, razor blades, letter openers, ice picks, and chains.

The Board may expel any student who is found guilty of having a lethal weapon.

DRESS AND DECORUM

The way you look and act is a reflection upon yourself, your family, your school, and your community. Therefore, it is important that you be concerned with your appearance and your behavior. Clothing that may disrupt the educational process or contain messages which promote violation of school rules is not acceptable on school premises. These may include: garments that display profanity, nudity, gang-related symbols, tasteless or obscene messages, gothic look or illegal substances. Students who wear disruptive clothing as per the above statement will be asked to change the offensive clothing or they will not be allowed to attend class.

Dress Code Regulations

1. Students are expected to dress in neat, clean clothing which is suited for school activities. Students will be prohibited from wearing any apparel which is inappropriate or disruptive to the learning environment as determined by the principal or his/her designee.
2. Male students may not wear sleeveless garments, which do not adequately cover undergarments or torso. This includes spaghetti and/or thin strapped shirts which may only be worn over another T-shirt or blouse that has sleeves. Students may not wear strapless attire or attire which exposes the midriff.
3. All shorts must be no shorter than four inches above the kneecap. Students may not wear skirts or dresses shorter than four inches above the kneecap. Junior High and Varsity Cheerleaders may wear their uniforms on the day of the game and/or pep rally. Students who violate this policy will be punished by the administration as deemed necessary.
4. Students may not wear clothing, patches or decals which are obscene, vulgar, and suggestive or offensive in any manner, or which promote the use of violence, drugs, gangs, or endorse alcohol or tobacco products. No caps/hats or sunglasses are allowed.
5. Students must wear proper undergarments but should not wear undergarments as outerwear. Undergarments should not be visible.
6. Pants are to be worn to fit the person’s body and are not to hang or sag on the student’s body. Pants are to be of the appropriate size in the waist and inseam and are to fit the body in the waist and not sag down off the waist and/or hips. Pants are not to touch the floor/ground and/or drag the floor/ground. Pants are to fit the person’s legs without being extremely loose or “baggy”.  Pants are not to have oversized pockets. Baggy clothes of any type are not permitted, i.e. trench coats, coats, shirts, pants, etc. Holes (ripped or torn) are not allowed in pants or clothing.
7. Students must wear shoes or sandals.
8. Students may not wear punk-style hair or dress which includes: hair dyed in multicolor, (hair dyed colors other than natural human hair colors, i.e. pink, green, etc.) spiked hair, shaven head areas, shaven head patterns.
9. Extreme facial make-up, painted in a distracting manner, will not be allowed. Male students shall not wear facial makeup.
10. No body piercing (with the exception of female’s ears) is allowed. Male students shall not wear earrings. Females shall not wear nose rings.
11. Heavy metal chains, spiked apparel, and similar items should not be worn on the body.
12. Students may not wear pajamas and/or pajama pants.
13. No writing on the back (seat) of pants, jeans, shorts, sweatpants, etc. for K-12th grade male and female students, including cheerleaders and athletes.
14. Students may not wear jeans / pants with holes.
15. The use of clear or mesh backpacks that can be seen through is permissible in for K-12. Other backpacks are not permissible. Athletic or duffel bags for extracurricular activities should be presented to the coach or sponsor at the beginning of the day and locked in a central location. Students should not be allowed to visit these bags during the school day.
16. ALL BLOUNT COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION DRESS CODE RULES ALSO APPLY.

UNLESS THERE IS A MEDICAL OR OTHER COMPELLING REASON, THE PRINCIPAL OR HIS/HER DESIGNEE SHALL HAVE FINAL AUTHORITY IN DETERMINING ACCEPTABLE OR UNACCEPTABLE DRESS AND/OR GROOMING.

Hair

Hair must be clean and well-groomed, not in the eyes, and not of length dangerous around equipment (hair must be secured around equipment).

BEHAVIOR VIOLATIONS AND CONSEQUENCES

The administrative staff of Locust Fork High School reserves the right to alter or advance through the procedures for any given violation as deemed necessary for the safety and well-being of the students and staff.

Each student attending Locust Fork High School will be held accountable for his/her behavior, unless specifically documented in the student’s individual education plan (IEP) or individual behavior plan. The following methods of punishment may be employed as disciplinary measures as deemed necessary by the faculty and administration.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
Corporal Punishment will be used as an alternative discipline measure. Corporal punishment will only be administered by a Blount County Board of Education teacher/administrator and witnessed by a Blount County Board of Education teacher/administrator.

MORNING DETENTION
Morning Detention will be held at Locust Fork High School as an alternative disciplinary measure. Students may be assigned morning detention for school disciplinary offenses or classroom misconduct. Morning detention is held on Tuesday mornings from 7:00 until 7:40. Students who cut detention will be assigned Saturday School or suspended.

COMMUNITY SERVICE
Students may be assigned community service in the form of projects or hours served. Community service will be completed after school hours. Parents are responsible for picking up students from community service.

SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL
A student may be suspended for as many as five days if other methods fail or the act is severe enough to warrant suspension. Any disciplinary action resulting in suspension will necessitate the student being accompanied by his/her parent or guardian to be readmitted to school. If a student is suspended, he or she will NOT be allowed to make up work missed during the suspension.

IN SCHOOL SUSPENSION
Students may be placed in I.S.S. during the school day. These students will be allowed to continue with their studies while in I.S.S. Students will be isolated from the social aspect of school. Students will eat lunch in I.S.S. Students will be required to complete regular assignments given by their teachers and also complete written assignments given by the school administration.

ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL
Students may be assigned to the Blount County Alternative School when behavior or attendance becomes a problem. This also includes Saturday School.
Objectives of the Alternative Program
• To meet minimum state academic requirements
• To improve behavior of students
• To help students become more responsible
• To improve student self-concept
• To improve attendance
• To provide a highly structured and closely supervised environment

EXPULSION FROM SCHOOL
This can only be issued by the Board of Education. A recommendation to the Board must be made by the school administration.

VANDALISM AND PROPERTY DAMAGE

It is costly to purchase, construct, and maintain our school buildings, books, materials, and equipment. Students who destroy or vandalize school property will be required to pay for losses or damages. If students willfully destroy school property, community service, suspension and subsequent expulsion may be necessary. If you should happen to damage something by accident, you should report it to a teacher or the office immediately.

TELEPHONE

A pay phone is located in the office area for student use. Students must have permission from the administration to use the telephone and use should be of an emergency nature. Office telephones are not for student use except with the permission of a school official.

CAFETERIA AND LUNCH HOUR

Student behavior in the dining room should be based on courtesy and cleanliness. Students will go through the cafeteria line and pay for their choice of food. Students are to remain in the cafeteria until they have finished eating. Tables and floors must be free of trash and food spills when students depart the lunchroom. At no time are pupils allowed to take food outside of the cafeteria. Students are not to go into areas where classes are being held during their lunch.
1. Follow correct Traffic Flow in a single file while in the serving line.
2. All food is to be eaten in the cafeteria.
3. Students will remain seated until dismissed.
4. Students will talk quietly.
5. Students will leave their area neat and clean.

RIDING THE SCHOOL BUS

From the moment you step on the bus in the morning, you must not leave the bus or the school grounds without going through proper channels. You cannot ride a bus other than your regular bus without special permission from the office. All notes must be signed before school is out for the day. If it is necessary to make any change in transportation plans, you must notify the office and obtain approval prior to 2:00 p.m., unless it is an emergency. Keep in mind that the bus driver is the person in authority and must be respected. Follow the driver’s instructions at all times. High school students should not tease, mistreat, or “pick on” elementary students in any manner. Drivers have the right to assign a student a seat. Distracting a driver so that it impairs his or her ability to drive safely will not be tolerated. Students should not fight or misbehave on a school bus. Riding the bus is a privilege which can be taken away.

PERSONAL VEHICLES

A student driving an automobile to school must be a licensed driver, must have insurance on the vehicle in which he/she is driving, and must park in the place designated by the principal. All student vehicles will be required to have a valid parking permit issued by Locust Fork High School.

Vehicles are not to be moved during the school day without the permission of the administration and are not to be moved at the end of the school day until all buses are loaded and off the school grounds unless an exception is made by the principal. Students will not be allowed to loiter in or around parked cars during the school day.

School officials, standing in loco parentis, may search any vehicle brought on campus by a student when such officials have reason to believe the students may have possession of a substance, item, or material which could endanger the life or health of another student or could interfere with the educational process of the school.

The speed limit on school grounds is 5 miles per hour.

The principal has the authority to designate faculty, employee, bus, student, and visitor parking zones if the need for such zones exists.

Any student who fails to abide by any of these regulations can be refused permission to drive a vehicle to school. Locust Fork High School is not responsible for theft or accidents which occur with the vehicles that are parked on the school campus.

MEDICATIONS

A Parent/Prescriber authorization form must be completed and signed by the physician (prescriber) and the parent/guardian for all prescription medication to be dispensed at school. The parent is responsible for having this form completed and delivered to the school. The parent/guardian must provide the school with medication that is in a correctly labeled prescription bottle/container. The parent/guardian or the parent designated responsible adult shall deliver ALL medications to the school’s designated personnel. The school personnel will count and document all controlled substances in the presence of a parent/guardian or parent designated responsible adult.

Nonprescription Medication

The parent must complete the “Non-Prescription Medication” section of the Medication Prescriber/Parent Authorization form for non-prescription drugs. This medication must be in the original container along with instructions. A physician’s authorization is not required for non-prescription drugs.

Parents are responsible for picking up any left over prescription or nonprescription medication at the end of the school year. Any medication that is not picked up will be destroyed by designated school personnel.

The school personnel will refuse to administer medication when there is any discrepancy, i.e. label is different from instructions, label is unclear, or label is torn. This medication will not be given until clarification is obtained.

Medication must be distributed from a central location within the school unless individual classrooms are equipped with a locking cabinet, desk or file for security.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks are furnished to students and are issued at the beginning of the year. A textbook rules form is given to each student to be read and signed by the student and parents. Students who lose or damage a book while it is checked out to them must pay for it.

LIBRARY

The library is available for student use. The library has many resources that can be used for class work, independent study, or pleasure. Students must assume all responsibility for books checked out. Fines are charged for overdue, damaged or lost books. Library privileges will be taken away if library obligations are not cleared.

GUIDANCE

Guidance services/procedures are available for every student in the school. These services include assistance with educational planning, interpretation of test scores, occupational information, career information, study helps, help with home and school problems and/or any questions the student may feel he would like to discuss with the counselor.

SCHEDULE CHANGES

During the school year, all schedule changes must be cleared through the school administration.

LOCKERS

Lockers are available to students for rent. Use only the locker you have rented and keep it locked at all times. Do not share your combination with anyone. Lockers may be inspected at anytime.

STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

The procedure to be followed by any student regarding an individual grievance is first to discuss the matter with a teacher (if a teacher is involved).
Level One- The resolution of a grievance through free and informal communications as close as possible to the point of origin is encouraged. A student with a grievance may first take it to his immediate teacher or principal. Both shall be consulted prior to further resolution procedures.
Level Two- In the event the aggrieved person is not satisfied with the disposition of his grievance at level one, he may file an appeal in writing with the Superintendent or his designee. Within ten (10) days from receipt of the grievence, he shall request a conference with the aggrieved or render a written decision.
Level Three- In the event the aggrieved person is not satisfied with the disposition of his grievance at Level Two, he may request the Superintendent or his designee to schedule a brief hearing before the Board of Education at its next regular meeting.

The aggrieved person may select a representative to accompany him at each level, may ask such representative to state the facts in written form, and may request a written decision at each level outlined above.

The grievance procedure must be initiated at the level at which the grievance occurred, and all requirements specified must be observed by students and school officials.

For the discussion and consideration of a grievance, time and place will be selected which will not interfere with the regular scheduled classes or school related activities. The faculty and administration shall make an honest effort to resolve student grievances as quickly as possible at the most immediate level of supervision.

Confidentiality
A. To the greatest extent possible, all complaints and/or grievances will be treated as confidential
B. Limited disclosure may be necessary to complete a thorough investigation.The school's and District's obligation to investigate and take corrective action may supersede an individual's right to privacy.
C. The complainant's identity shall be protected, but absolute confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.

Retaliation Prohibited
A. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal or harrasment in connection with filing a complaint or assisting in an investigation.
B. Retaliatory or intimidating conduct against any individual who has made a complaint ar any individual who has made a complaint or any individual who has testified, assisted, or participated, in any matter, in an investigation is specifically prohibited and as detailed in this policy shall be treated as an incidence of bullying or harrasment.
C. During the investigation, the principal/designee may take any action necessary to protect the complainant, other students or employees consistent with the requirements of applicable regulations and statutes.

VISITORS

STUDENTS are not allowed to bring visitors to school. Visitors present a hardship on both teachers and students.

PARENTS are always welcome but are encouraged to make an appointment to see a teacher, the principal, or to visit their children’s classes.

ALL VISITORS ARE REQUIRED TO CHECK IN AT THE OFFICE BEFORE PROCEEDING TO ANOTHER AREA OF THE SCHOOL.

SOLICITATION
No solicitation by students for any purpose other than school related activities should be allowed. No person, including those employed by the board, will be permitted to solicit business from, or conduct personal business with a teacher during school hours; neither will the student be permitted to approach teachers about appointments in school or on the grounds during school hours.

No person except those approved by the Superintendent and/or Principal shall be permitted to enter any school for the purpose of selling to students, or school personnel.

Advertising matter seeking contributions from teachers or students shall not be displayed on or about school buildings unless for educational or charitable purposes approved by the Superintendent or Principal.

The principal must approve free advertising materials before distribution to students.

FIRE and TORNADO DRILLS
Fire—Continuous ringing of class change bell.
Tornado—Rapid short ringing of class change bell.

SCHOOL INSURANCE
School insurance is available to all students. A packet will be available for each student on the first day of classes. Purchase of this program is optional. All athletes must provide signed evidence that they are covered by adequate insurance. All athletes may purchase the twenty-four hour plan.

Locust Fork High School complies with non-discrimination regulations under Title VI and Title VII, Civil Rights Act of 1964; Title XI, Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

It is the official policy of the Alabama State Department of Education, Blount County Board of Education and Locust Fork High School that no person in Alabama shall, on the grounds of race, color, handicap, sex, religion, creed, or national origin, be excluded from participating in, or denied the benefit of, or be subject to discrimination under any program, activity, or employment.