Parent-Student Handbook

Anchorage Public School

2007- 2008

Donald R. Cravens, Superintendent BOARD OF EDUCATION

Cathy H. Barnard, Principal Mason Rummel, Chairman

Keith Waford, Assistant Principal Bridget Bush, Vice Chairman

Pat Vaughn, Counselor Nadine Brewer

Jan Grigsby, Instructional Program Coordinator Steve Kottkamp

Phil Farris, Director of Special Education Rick Rubenstein

ANCHORAGE SCHOOL COUNCIL

Jane Brown, Parent

Jan Broyles, Teacher

Ann Walthall, Parent

Liz Ferguson, Parent

Marguerite Guthrie, Teacher

Julie Magnuson, Instructional Assistant

Kaethe Shake, Teacher

Patricia Tague, Parent

Marilyn Westerfield, Teacher

Dear Students and Parents:

Welcome to Anchorage Public School. We are glad to welcome you as a part of our Anchorage school community. This Handbook answers many of the questions you may have about the processes, procedures and expectations of Anchorage School. We hope that this information will be helpful to you throughout the year.

Whether you are a newcomer to our school or an alumnus, we hope you will find this school year to be a memorable and exciting one. Cooperation is an important component of working together and toward that end we recommend a thorough read of this handbook. It will tell you exactly what services and benefits you may expect from the school and the level of engagement we need from our parents and students. We hope that you will take both messages to heart.

May this year be one of the most rewarding at Anchorage Public School.

Cathy H. Barnard, Principal

Parent-Teacher Handbook

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL INFORMATION

Anchorage Community Standards

The Anchorage Team

School Calendar 2007-2008

Lunch Schedule

SCHOOL INFORMATION

Absences and Attendance

Educational Enhancement Request

Arrivals and Dismissals

Backpacks

Cafeteria

Communication Modes

Computer Labs

Dress Code

Electronic Devices

Extra Curricular Activities

Field Trips

Grades

Homework

Illness/Medications

Instructional Supply Fee

Library

Lockers

Lost and Found

Lunchbunch

Money and Valuables

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Physical Exams/Immunizations

Retention/Promotion Policy

Severe Weather/School Closing

Textbooks Visitors

Volunteers

CODE OF CONDUCT

Introduction

Philosophy of the Code of Conduct

Parental Concerns

The Teacher’s Role in Discipline

The Counselor’s Role in Discipline

The Principal’s Role in Discipline

The Parent’s Role in Discipline

The Student’s Role in Discipline

Code of Conduct

Appeals and Due Process

Suspension/Expulsion Procedures for Students with Disabilities

EXTRA CURRICULAR PROGRAMS HANDBOOK

Philosophy

Academic Programs

Athletic Programs

LIFE SKILLS

SCHOOL COUNCIL POLICIES

Business Solicitations

High School Shadowing

Multi-Cultural Education Policy

Non-School Sponsored Clubs

Student Assignment

Equipment Check Out

NOTICE FOR DIRECTORY INFORMATION

Anchorage Community Standards

Anchorage School community launches lifelong learning by:

· Providing relevant, in depth and integrated learning.

· Promoting high academic standards, benchmarked nationally & internationally.

· Achieving mastery of fundamental skills in reading, writing & math.

· Allowing for individualized instruction through small class sizes.

· Using technology as a tool for learning.

· Encouraging creativity and building problem-solving, critical thinking and communication skills.

· Offering a physically and emotionally safe environment.

· Providing a positive and focused learning environment through effective parent-teacher communication and partnerships.

To prepare successful, independent learners for a global community.

These core values of our community of parents, teachers and families in Anchorage were achieved through focus groups with parents, faculty and community members as well as a survey to the entire community.

At Anchorage School we:

Help those in need
Make everyone feel welcome
Take pride in our school
Include and acknowledge everyone
Have no put-downs (verbal or non-verbal)
Use Life Skills to solve problems
Respect each other
Take personal responsibility

The Anchorage Team

2007-2008

School Board Members

Mason Rummel, Chairperson – Bridget Bush, Vice-Chairperson – Nadine Brewer - Steve Kottkamp – Rick Rubenstein

Administration

Donald R. Cravens, Superintendent - Cathy H. Barnard, Principal - Keith Waford, Assistant Principal – Pat Vaughn, Counselor- Phil Farris,

Director of Special Education

Jan Grigsby, Instructional Program Coordinator - Betty Orton, Director of Pupil Personnel - Wilma Sharp, Athletic Director

District Office Personnel

Jon Travis, Treasurer - Lee Collard, District Technology Coordinator - Lisa Liford, Tech Clerk – Cindi Rhodes, Office Manager

School Office Personnel Cafeteria Maintenance/Housekeeping

Sharon Clore, School Secretary Teresa Wise, Director Butch Sedoris, Director

Judy Link, School Secretary Sue Bierens Milton Capps

Kathy Stephens, Secretary Regina Kincaid Edwina McPherson

Gilbert Kincaid Charlotte Westmoreland

Betty Wright

Instructional Assistants Technology Assistants ECE Teachers

Kristi Hunter Jodine Carman

Betty Coffman DeAnna Lyninger Karen Steltenpohl Julie DeLozier

Alice Cooper Kim McClure Lyndsy Hammil

Janice Cosenza DeeDee Mitchell Library Clerk Martha Heightchew

Jean Kabazie Jamie Pantess Julie Magnuson Kaethe Shake

Janie Lilly Rene Reynolds

Gayle Wiegel ESS Teachers Reading Lab Instructor

Elementary – Laura Sohl

Marguerite Guthrie

Middle School - Sherry Culp

Essential Arts Teachers

Robin Gamez, Media Specialist Linda Lightbourne, Music Occupational Therapist

Carolyn Browning, Choir/Spanish Lee Ann Ridge, Science Laura Kane

Angela Gonzalez, Spanish-Elementary Ellen Sears, Art

Melissa Kidwell, PE/Health Darla Talbert, Music Physical Therapist

Kathy Lewis, Art Yancey Walters, P. E. Betty Wright

K-1 Teachers 2-3 Teachers 4^th Gr Teachers 5^th Gr Teachers 6^th Gr Teachers

Jolynn Baltzley Sherri Hafling Carla Brown Cindy Gramig Barbara Gulick

Liz Ann Hunter Linda Hall Jackie Holt Sue Thomas Melissa Sangster

Judy Kaufman Sherrie Morgan Cynthia Lowery Teresa Wooldridge Sue Styles

Tina Kingsbury Tim Sears

Marilyn Westerfield

7-8 Grade Teachers

Jan Broyles - Lois Conely - David Merchant - Sharon Stokley - David Vetter

School Calendar 2006-2007

August 10 Opening Day for Faculty

August 13 Orientation & Supply Sale

August 14 First Day for Students (8:00am - 12:00pm)

August 15 First Full Day for Students

August 29 School Picture Day

September 3 Labor Day Holiday

September 21 1^st Midterm Ends

September 26 Pep Rally

September 28 Midterm Report Sent Home

October 8 - 12 Fall Break (No School for Students)

October 17 School Picture Retakes

November 6 Parent/Teacher Conference Day

November 9 1^st Trimester Ends

November 16 Trimester Report Sent Home

November 21 - 23 Thanksgiving Vacation

December 24 -January 4 Winter Holidays Vacation (No School for Students, Employee Break)

January 7 School Resumes

January 11 2^nd Midterm Ends

January 18 Midterm Report Sent Home

January 21 Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

January 30 Pep Rally

February 18 - 22 Winter Break (No School for Students)

February 29 2^nd Trimester Ends

March7 Trimester Report Sent Home

March 7 Parent/Teacher Conference Day

April 7-11 Spring Break (No School for Students, Employee Break)

April 18 3^rd Midterm Ends

April 25 Midterm Report Sent Home

May 2 Oaks’ Day Holiday

May 20 Professional Development Day

May 26 Memorial Day Holiday

May 27 Pep Rally

May 30 Students Last Day (8:00am – 12:00pm)

June 3 Closing Day for Faculty

June 6 Trimester Report Mailed Home

Lunch Schedule

11:00-11:25 4^th Grade (Brown, Holt, Lowery)

11:10-11:35 5^th Grade (Gramig, Thomas, Wooldridge)

11:25-11:50 K-1’s (Hunter, Kaufman,)

11:35-12:00 K-1’s (Baltzley, Kingsbury)

12:00-12:25 2-3’s (Hafling, Sears, Westerfield)

12:10-12:35 2’s (Hall, Morgan)

12:25-12:50 6^th Grade

12:45-1:10 7/8^th Grade

First time listed is the time students leave their classroom and wash hands and

travel to lunch. Last time listed is exact pick-up time or the time when students

will leave the lunchroom. There is 5 minutes from pick-up to travel back to the

classrooms for instruction.

SCHOOL INFORMATION

Absences and Attendance

To achieve the level of excellence desired by everyone in the Anchorage Community, there must be a strong commitment to arriving at school on time and attending school on a regular basis. Poor attendance and tardies to school are barriers to learning. It is important for parents and students to realize that tardies and absences are a part of a child’s permanent record and may preclude a child from meeting other school’s entrance requirements. It is also important to know that the State funding provided to Anchorage School is based on our annual attendance rate. The attendance rate is calculated by the minutes that students are in attendance in school. Tardies are calculated as absences after the minutes the students are tardy to school add up to a school day. The number of days our students are in school translates into the amount of money we receive from the State every year.

State Law requires students to attend school every day school it is in session unless they have a justifiable reason for their absence per KRS 159.030 and KRS 159.150. The parent/guardian is responsible for keeping the child in regular school attendance. The Anchorage School recognizes that attendance is a vitally important part of the learning process and that absences may have a detrimental effect on a student’s performance. Schoolwork missed due to an absence cannot be duplicated in all situations outside the classroom, due to the nature and extent of the instruction provided, so it is essential for a student to be present. Failure to make up work can affect the student’s achievement adversely.

The Anchorage School is in session for students 174 days from mid-August to late May. Within that time frame, there are 36-week days in which students do not attend school due to school breaks, holidays and parent conference days. The number of days when school is not in session during our school year provides ample time for vacations, additional rest, scheduled appointments, etc.

Per School Board policy 09.123 Truancy is defined as “any pupil who has been absent from school without valid excuse for three (3) days or more or tardy without valid excuse on three (3) days or more.”

Any student who has been reported as a truant two (2) or more times is a habitual truant.

The Kentucky Department of Education will implement new standards for students’ attendance accounting this year. One school day is equivalent to 420 minutes. Beginning in the 2006-07 school year, when a student is absent from school for 59 minutes or less, the time they are absent is counted as a tardy, which does not affect the attendance-based funding allocated to the school. However, any time a student is absent from school 60 minutes or more, the minutes have an accumulative effect on the student’s attendance and school funding. For instance, if a student is absent from school for 60 minutes three times during the year, a total of 180 minutes will be counted toward an absence and deducted from the student’s attendance and our funding from the Kentucky Department of Education.

Excused Absences- students may be excused from school for the following reasons:

1) Death or severe illness in the pupil’s immediate family

2) Illness of the pupil

3) Religious holidays and practices

4) One (1) day attendance at the Kentucky State Fair…yes, this is in the Law!

5) Other valid reasons as determined by the Principal, including trips qualifying as EDUCATIONAL ENHANCEMENT OPPORTUNITY, which are submitted for approval to the Principal ten (10) days prior to the first date of the absence.

Students shall be granted an excused absence for up to ten (10) school days to pursue an EDUCATIONAL ENHANCEMENT OPPORTUNITY determined by the principal to be of significant educational value. This opportunity may include, but not limited to, participation in an educational foreign exchange program or an intensive, experiential, or performance program in one (1) of the core curriculum subjects of English, science, mathematics, social studies, foreign language, and the arts.

Unless the Principal determines that extenuating circumstances exist, requests for date(s) falling within State or District testing periods shall not be granted.

The Principal’s determination may be appealed to the Superintendent/designee whose decision may then be appealed to the Board under its grievance policy and procedures.

Students receiving an excused absence under this section shall have the opportunity to make up schoolwork missed and shall not have their grades adversely affected for lack of class attendance or class participation due to the excused absence.

For unplanned absences, please telephone the school office the morning of your child’s absence. The number is 245-2121 ext. 2200. Upon return to school from an absence, parents are required to send a written and signed statement noting the reason for the child’s absence. After the fifth (5^th) parent note for absences due to illness, the parent will be required to submit a doctor’s note in order for the absence to be excused.

Students in grades 4-8 have the same number of days as their excused absence plus one additional day to make up any missed work. The teacher is not responsible for re-teaching the lessons missed. It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements for make-up work, as well as missed quizzes and tests with the teacher involved.

Unexcused Absences- More than three (3) unexcused absences will result in student truancy from school. The common unexcused absences are family vacations, and absences from school more than five (5) times without a doctor’s note. Truant students are subject to after school detention, and non-participation in extra curricular activities and field trips. If any absence is unexcused, the work shall not be made up.

An absence from school, whether excused or unexcused, is counted as an absence on the student’s attendance record.

Excused Tardy- Students are considered tardy to school if they are not in their classroom by 8:00a.m. Students will need a note from the office to enter the classroom after 8:00a.m. A tardy is considered excused if it meets the same guidelines as the excused absences. If a student arrives at school after the school day has started, the adult needs to sign the children in at the school office.

Unexcused Tardy- If students do not have a valid reason for arriving to school after 8:00am they will receive an unexcused tardy. An unexcused tardy has the same guidelines as an unexcused absence. Truant students, due to three (3) unexcused tardies, are subject to after school detention and non-participation in extra curricular activities and field trips. If a tardy is unexcused, the student may make up work or tests that occurred during their absence from school at the discretion of the teacher involved.

Suspension

Projects or homework assigned prior to suspension shall be accepted for credit. Students shall be responsible for submitting assignments due during the time of the suspension.

Long-term projects assigned during the suspension and due at a later date shall be accepted.

Work assigned and due during suspension shall not be accepted.

Request for Educational Enhancement Day

Name:_____________________________________________________________________

Grade Level _________Teacher_________________________________________________

Address:___________________________________________________Anchorage, KY 40223

Date(s) From: __________________________To:__________________________

Name of Educational Experience (if Event):

Description of Educational Experience (if Event):

Educational Value of Experience:

Supportive data from Parents or other Adults:

Name and Signature of

____________________________________ __________________

Student Date

____________________________________ __________________

Parent Date

Approved_____ Not Approved ____ Principal’s Signature ______________________ Date _________

This form must be submitted to Principal ten (10) days prior to the first date of the absence.

Rev6/7/06

Arrivals and Dismissals

The school day begins at 8:00 AM and ends at 3:00 PM on Monday through Thursday and ends at 1:50 PM on Friday. There is an exception to the Friday dismissal the first two Fridays of the school year. On Friday, August 17^th and Friday, August 24^th, students will be in school from 8:00AM – 3:00PM. Students should be in their appropriate class and ready to begin the day's activities by 8:00 AM. Students arriving late to school must be signed in to school by a parent/adult at the school office and receive a tardy slip for entrance to their classroom.

Tardies to school will be recorded on the student's report card. Tardies to class will be handled by the individual teacher. The assistant principal will request a conference with parents whose children have six tardies during a trimester.

Students in grades K-3 are to report to the auditorium, students in grades 4-5 report to the small gym and students in grades 6-8 report to the big gym if they arrive at school prior to 7:45. Students may not go to their locker or loiter in the halls. Students may meet with a teacher if arrangements were made the day before or if a student is returning from an absence. Students may also go to the cafeteria at 7:30 if they desire to purchase breakfast or play a game of chess before school.

Students who need to leave early from school should bring a note from his/her parent/guardian to school and turn it in to their homeroom teacher when they arrive at school that day.

Rainy day dismissals - Students picked up in front should report to the auditorium and wait for their name to be called. Students picked up in back should report to the gym and wait for their name to be called. Students should not be in any other area of the building.

Backpacks

Students are welcome to carry a backpack to and from school but must store it in their lockers or their hook during the school day. Backpacks need to be off the floor, on the hooks or in the lockers. Closed locker doors maintain a safe environment for hallway traffic and therefore should be closed at all times.

In accordance with board policy 09.436, backpacks may be searched by authorized school personnel when "there are reasonable grounds to believe the search will reveal evidence that the pupil has violated or is violating either a school rule or the law."

Cafeteria

Our cafeteria offers breakfast items beginning at 7:30AM. Breakfast prices range from 50¢ - $1.00 per item. Students in grades K-5 may purchase lunch for $3.00, and students in grades 6-8 may purchase lunch for $3.25. Semester lunch tickets are also

available at a 5% discount. Students are expected to respect the directives of the staff in charge of the cafeteria when using those facilities.

Parents are always welcome to have lunch with their children and should simply sign in at the front office upon arrival.

Communication Modes

To keep current on the announcements and happenings throughout the school, teachers, students and parents all need to assume responsibility for effective communication. Contact between parents and the school takes the following forms: Board Newsletter, APTA Calendar, Weekly Waves accessed by website, Anchorage Web Page containing grade level web pages, Thursday Folders*, Parent/Student handbook, US Mail, phone messages, email, parent meetings, conferences with individual teachers or the teaching team, and orientation meetings.

*Thursday Folders - Folders with school-wide announcements and handouts will go home each Thursday. To prevent duplication, some information will only be sent with the youngest member of each family. Please ask your child for the folder and remind him/her to return the empty folder to school the next day.

Phone calls - The phones in our rooms are not intended as personal message services between parents and children. Students are generally discouraged from calling home for things forgotten, i.e. lunch, homework, etc. Phone calls during class interrupt instruction, and teachers do not necessarily check to see if there is a message every time they walk into the room. Therefore, it is not a reliable way of getting a message to your child.

The school website (www.anchorage-school.org) is a great source of school information. We encourage you to log on to the website for information regarding events, sports schedules, class pages, student grades, etc. The website has a new look and is easier to use. Please visit the website on a regular basis so you will keep current about school news and more efficient regarding student information.

Computer Labs

The computer labs will be used during the course of the year for instruction. All students desiring access to the Internet must have on file with the media specialist an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP).

Students will have access to two Dell Labs this year. Both computer labs are equipped with Intelligent Classroom capabilities.

Misuse of the computer, computer lab equipment, or Internet or email access, may result in suspended privileges. The Library Dell Lab will be open daily from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm.

Dress Code

Pride in self and Anchorage School is reflected in appropriate attire. Appropriate dress enables kindergarten through eighth grade students to focus on academics. We believe that dress and appearance are the responsibility of the students and parents. Dress and appearance can greatly influence self-image and behavior. When it is felt the appearance of a student is a disruptive influence on the educational program at school, corrective measures may be taken by the staff.

At all times during the school day students are required to wear shoes. Clothing should not allow undergarments to be seen. Shirts should not expose the stomach or back. A shirt should be high enough not to expose cleavage. Tank tops and spaghetti straps are not permitted. While wearing pants, skirts, dresses or shorts, undergarments may not be exposed when a student is seated or standing. Students are not allowed to wear clothing or accessories that display obscene words or slogans. Additionally, students are prohibited from wearing clothing or accessories that advertise or promote the use of drugs, alcohol or tobacco. Hats are not permitted during school unless for medical or religious reasons, or for a special sponsored "hat day".

Students that are not appropriately dressed will be asked to cover up and/or referred to the principal. Parents may be called if student wears inappropriate dress on numerous occasions.

Electronic Devices

Students are asked not to bring laser penlights, iPods, MP3 players, Headphones, CD or tape players, electronic games, or pagers to school. Use of these devices during the school day may result in confiscation of the items. Items may be returned after a parent conference. Cell phones may be brought to school for after school communication. They are to remain in lockers and to be turned off during school hours.

Extra Curricular Activities

Students must meet eligibility requirements to participate in extra-curricular activities. Students must maintain a minimum of a 2.0 grade point average and have no failing grades. Grades are examined at the midterm and at the trimester. If a student does not meet the minimum standard at the midterm, they are placed on probation and are not allowed to participate in any extra curricular activities including practices. Their academic progress will be monitored weekly on Friday and they will be reinstated when they meet the minimum requirement. If a student does not meet the minimum standard at the trimester review, he/she is on probation until the next midterm report. If he/she meets the minimum requirements at the midterm review, he/she will be reinstated. Parents will be notified in writing when a student is placed on probation.

All students are required to have up-to-date immunizations and other health records on file prior to participation in any extra curricular activity or field trip.

There are many opportunities for participation in extra curricular activities. Please check the Extra Curricular Handbook included in this handbook for a description of offerings as well as fees and participation information.

Field Trips

Field trips are considered instructional activities and the time spent on field trips is a part of attendance time. When students are signed out by their parents for any part of the field trip it is considered non-school time and documented as an absence. Every student is required to ride the bus and stay on the field trip until they return to school. All exceptions to this policy must be approved by the Principal 5 days prior to the field trip.

Grades

The grading scale in grades 6-8 at Anchorage School is:

A+ 100 B- 86 D 69-74

A 94-99 C+ 85 D- 68

A- 93 C 77-84 F Below 68

B+ 92 C- 76 I Incomplete

B 87-91 D+ 75

Incompletes (I) must be converted by the end of the trimester or the grade will be a failing grade. The Middle School Assessment will also include conduct grades to denote behavior in the classroom. S is Satisfactory conduct in the classroom, S- is less than Satisfactory conduct and U is Unsatisfactory conduct.

Homework

Work assigned to be completed outside of class will vary from teacher to teacher and grade to grade. However, students in grades 6-8 may expect to spend on average of one to two hours on schoolwork each night.

Illness/Medication

Students may be authorized to carry on their person and independently take their own medication (prescription or non-prescription) provided the parent/guardian has written approval on file with school personnel. Such approval shall assure school personnel that the child has been properly instructed in self-administering the medication. If prescription medication is involved, written authorization of the student’s physician/health care provider also is required.

Medication should be given at home when possible. If school personnel are giving medication, they should receive training in appropriate First Aid. The person supervising the administration must keep a written record.

Further, all First Aid short of life-threatening situations must be admistered in the school office by the appropriately trained staff. Injuries will be cleaned with with soap and water and bandaged. Parents will be notified if further medical attention may be warranted.

Instructional Supply Fee

The purpose of the instructional fee is to provide the receipts to cover costs of the instructional materials used directly for and/or by students. The instructional fee money is used to purchase supplemental books, paper back books, periodicals such as Weekly Reader and Junior Scholastic, science supplies and materials, and consumable mathematics manipulatives.

Library

The Anchorage School Library has a large collection of approximately 14,000 books, 55 periodical subscriptions and a wealth of electronic and audiovisual materials. There are 15 computer workstations with Internet connections. In addition, all computers have access to the Kentucky Commonwealth Virtual Library, which includes 32 research databases as well as other research tools. The Anchorage School Library has an automated circulation and catalog system.

In grades K-5, the following circulation policies are observed:

· Materials are loaned for a one-week period in grades K-3 and three weeks in grades 4-5.

· Magazines are loaned for a one-week period.

· Materials may be renewed up to three times.

· No overdue fines are charged for late materials.

· Students with materials overdue for more than one month must return overdue items before new items may be checked out.

In grades 6-8, the following circulation policies are observed:

· Books are loaned for a three-week period.

· Magazines, CD’s and audiotapes are loaned for a one-week period.

· Material may be renewed up to three times.

· Overdue materials will accrue a fine of five cents a day (weekends and holidays excluded).

· Students with materials overdue or fines owed for more than one month must return overdue items before checking out new ones.

The library is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7:45 - 3:45 and Friday from 7:45 - 3:15.

Lockers

Locker assignments in grades K-5 vary. Please refer to individual teacher policies for those students.

Students will be assigned one locker for use during grades 6-8. Students may use only their assigned locker. Students may not share lockers with other students. Students are provided with combination locks for the lockers. Students will replace any lost combination locks. Acts of vandalism by others must be reported to an adult in the building. Students may not deface the lockers in any way. Students share the locker with the school as a co-tenant, and the school reserves the right to open lockers at any time.

Students in grades 6-8 also receive a locker in the locker room for use during their PE classes. There are combination locks provided by the school for these lockers. Locks are issued by the PE department on an annual basis for use by students. Student must replace lost locks.

Lost and Found

Students or parents who find lost articles are asked to take them to the Lost and Found area in the front office. Items are cleaned out and donated on the 30th of each month.

Lunchbunch

Anchorage School offers an after Kindergarten enrichment program. Activities include centers, art projects, handwriting work and other activities coordinated with the K/1 teachers. Children may attend 5, 3 or 2 days per week. Fees for the program are as follows:

5 days per week $60

3 days per week $40

2 days per week $30

Money and Valuables

No money, other than lunch money or library fines, or valuables should be brought to school. Never leave money or valuables in lockers. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen money or valuables.

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Parents are always encouraged to confer with his/her child’s teacher when there are any concerns. With prior notice teachers can see parents before or after school or during planning periods. Parents may not interrupt classroom instruction to conference with a teacher.

Two conference days are provided in the school calendar, November 6, 2007 and March 18, 2008.

Physical Exams/Immunizations

Below are the required immunizations for school entry in 2006-07:

Varicella (Chickenpox vaccine)- Any child at least 19 months of age and less than seven years of age who attend day care centers, certified family child care homes, preschool programs and public or private schools shall have one dose of Varicella vaccine, unless a parent, guardian or physician states that the child has had chickenpox disease.

Measles, Mumps, Rubella Vaccination-Two doses of MMR are required for:

· Any child entering kindergarten. (1^st dose of MMR must be given on or after the child’s 1^st birthday.)

· Any child entering 6^th grade, who does not already have this completed.

· All new, first time entrees to Anchorage School, whose birth date is 10/1/90 or later. (Note: Children already in school, whose birth date falls 10/1/90 or later, and who were in compliance with previous MMR requirements, will not be excluded from school. These children must be caught up by the first day of sixth grade entry. However, every opportunity should be taken to avoid missed immunization opportunities, and to assure adequate immunization of children. Second dose MMR may be given any time after this cut off.)

Hepatitis B Vaccination-Three doses of hepatitis B vaccine are required for:

· Any child entering Kindergarten.

· Beginning August 1^st, 2001, any child entering 6^th grade who does not already have this completed.

· Any child whose birth date is 10/1/02 or later, regardless of current grade level. (Note: If any child is in the process of completing this series, as with any other series, a green Provisional Immunization Certificate, expiring when the next dose is due, will be accepted. Upon completion of the vaccine series, a permanent Kentucky Certificate of Immunization will then be issued.)

· It is strongly recommended that all children and adolescents, ages 0-18 years, not just those at high risk, be immunized against hepatitis B.

Tuberculosis Skin Testing-

· Effective July 15, 1998, a PPD skin test is no longer required for entry into Kentucky schools.

Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis Vaccination-DTP, DTaP, Td (all students)-

· Five doses of DtaP or DTP with one dose on or after age four. If the fourth dose of DTaP/DTP was given on or after the child’s fourth birthday, the fifth dose is not required.

· NEW Tetanus Requirement for the 2003-04 school year as follows:

o If a child is 11-12 years of age and it has been at least five years since the child received the last dose of DTaP, DTP or DT, then a booster dose of Tetanus/Diphtheria (TD) should be administered.

Polio Vaccine-OPV, IPV-

· Minimum requirements are 3 doses with the third or fourth dose being given on or after the fourth birthday, and a minimum of 6 months between the last two doses.

Haemophilus Influenzae type b Vaccine-Hib-

· Any child attending a preschool program who is under the age of five.

Immunization Exemptions (medical and religious)-

· A medical exemption certificate must be presented for students who, in the opinion of their attending physician, have medical concerns that preclude immunization with one or all of the required vaccines. The medical exemption certificate should specify which vaccine(s) the student has received.

· A religious exemption certificate can be issued for students whose parent/guardian present a sworn notarized statement of their objection to immunization based on religious grounds. Original certificate and letter will be on file with the Student Records Office.

Documents are required to be on file at the time of enrollment. Out-of-state transfer students have 30 days to complete the requirement for the Kentucky School Physical Examination.

** All students are required to have up-to-date immunizations and other health records on file in the health office with the Records Office prior to participation in any extra curricular activity or school field trip. **

Retention/Promotion Policy

Retention and promotion is determined on the evaluation of the growth and development of the whole child by the parents, teacher and principal.

Teachers must present evidence for retention or promotion to the principal prior to meeting with the parents on these issues. The committee will be convened if the evidence supports the need for a decision.

A committee of the student’s parents, teachers and principal will evaluate the evidence for retention or promotion and will make recommendations at the meeting.

The principal makes the final decision on retention or promotion.

The intent of the Primary program is to allow children to grow and develop at their own rate of learning. Students enter Kindergarten with the widest range of abilities found in the classroom, but by third grade most have similar skills and knowledge. The students who have not been able to close the learning gap with their peers may need an extra year in the primary program. This extra year is recommended to take place at the end of primary, not in Kindergarten or grade one. This recommendation is general in nature, understanding that the decisions to retain or promote are based on the individual needs of each child.

Students in grades 4 –8 must have a final passing grade in three of the four content areas ( Reading/Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies) to be promoted to the next grade level.

Students who are retained may attend a summer program in content areas of need. Competency shall be demonstrated in the content areas in summer instruction for student placement the following year at the next grade level.

Severe Weather/School Closing

In the case of severe weather (snow, ice) the official announcement for school closing may be heard over WHAS radio. Listen for Anchorage Public School information. We do not follow Jefferson County’s decisions on school closings.

Textbooks

All textbooks are furnished by the school for use during the school day and at home, should that be necessary. Students should put his/her name on the inside cover of any book issued to them immediately upon receipt. Students will be responsible for replacing lost or damaged books. Individual teachers may require book covers or other special procedures for textbooks.

Visitors

All visitors must obtain a visitor pass and sign in at the front office. Student visitors are discouraged at Anchorage School due to the disruption these visitors may cause. Requests for all day visits or half-day visits must go through the office of the principal, and they must be in writing.

Volunteers

All adults seeking to volunteer in the school, chaperone field trips, lead student groups in Jr. Great Books, Art Discovery, etc. must complete the volunteer approval process and receive Safe School Training.

Anchorage Public School

2007 - 2008

CODE OF CONDUCT

Donald R. Cravens, Superintendent BOARD OF EDUCATION

Cathy H. Barnard, Principal Mason Rummel, Chairman

Keith Waford, Asst. Principal Bridget Bush, Vice Chairman

Pat Vaughn, Counselor Nadine Brewer

Jan Grigsby, Instructional Program Coordinator Steve Kottkamp

Phil Farris, Director of Special Education Rick Rubenstein

SAFE SCHOOL TEAM SCHOOL COUNCIL

Cathy Barnard, Principal Jane Brown, Parent

Pat Vaughn, Counselor Jan Broyles, Teacher

JoLynn Baltzley, Teacher Liz Ferguson, Parent

Carla Brown, Teacher Marguerite Guthrie, Teacher

Lois Conely, Teacher Julie Magnuson, Library Clerk

Melissa Kidwell, Teacher Kaethe Shake, Teacher

Sue Styles, Teacher Patricia Tague, Parent

Ann Walthall, Parent Marilyn Westerfield, Teacher

Introduction

Often when people talk about school discipline, they usually complain about the lack of enough discipline and that schools need to be tougher with misbehaving students. However, school discipline is much more than stopping negative behaviors. In fact, the root word of discipline is "to teach". Effective school discipline develops character, self-esteem, self-control, a sense of responsibility, and independence among students. It helps to create a positive school setting in which students can learn and teachers can teach.

The Anchorage Board of Education, administration, teachers, parents and community are striving to provide a quality education and a positive learning environment for Anchorage students. A quality education not only includes a good academic program but also includes assistance in the development of self-discipline and the ability to make appropriate choices. We provide a wide range of curricular activities, extra curricular activities, and counseling services to assist our students. This Code of Conduct is designed to give additional guidance to students in understanding their rights and responsibilities and to help them make appropriate choices.

The cooperation of parents, school administration, teaching staff and community is required to implement this code. Working together ensures a positive learning environment and a quality education for students.

The Anchorage School Council requires high standards of personal conduct from each student to promote respect for the rights of others and to accomplish the purposes of the schools. The Council requires compliance with established standards and rules of the district and the laws of our community, state and nation.

The central purpose of the school system is to educate each student accountable to the standards of this Code in a fair manner. Compliance with these standards is necessary to provide:

Orderly operation of our school;
A safe environment for students, employees and visitors;
Opportunities for students to achieve at a high academic level in a productive learning environment;
Assistance for students at risk of failure or of engaging in disruptive behavior
Regular attendance of students; and
Protection of property.

This Code applies to all students in the Anchorage Independent School system, while in school, anywhere on the school campus, on their way to or from school, and while participating in or attending school-sponsored trips and activities. The Superintendent/designee is responsible for its implementation of this Code within his/her school or at events sponsored by his/her school. Teachers and other instructional personnel are responsible for administering this Code in the classroom, halls, and any other assigned locations. All school employees shall administer the Code in a uniform and fair manner without partiality or discrimination. In this regard, the Board pledges its full support to all school employees responsible for implementing this Code.

Every student, parent, and school staff member receives a copy of this Code and receives instructions on how to use it. Staff may use reasonable judgment on how to apply the Code, but the Code will be enforced equitably.

This Code was developed by parents, teachers and administrators and adopted by the Anchorage School Council. It establishes minimum behavior standards. Recognizing that the school, grade or class may require special provisions, administrators and teachers have full authority to make rules to enforce these standards in keeping with their areas of responsibility. Caution: This code may be updated during the school year due to changes in the law, after it has been distributed.

The Code shall be included in all student handbooks distributed at school, made available to parents and students upon enrolment for each school year and published on the school website.

REQUIRED STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR:

The Council expects employees, students, parents/guardians/custodians and others to apply the following standards in a reasonable and fair manner.

A POSITIVE SCHOOL ATMOSPHERE IS NECESSARY FOR ACADEMIC PROGRESS AND A SAFE ENVIRONMENT THAT PERMITS AND ENCOURAGES LEARNING. STUDENTS SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH THE ORDERLY ENVIRONMENT OF THE SCHOOL OR SCHOOL ACTIVITY.

ANCHORAGE SCHOOL DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF AGE, COLOR, DISABILITY, PARENTAL STATUS, MARITAL STATUS, RACE, NATIONAL ORIGIN, RELIGION, SEX OR VETEREAN STATUS IN THE PROGRAMS, ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES IT PROVIDES, AS REQUIRED BY LAW.

Philosophy of the Code of Conduct

It is the goal of this committee to write a discipline code that will address the needs, rights, and responsibilities of all of those within the school system. For the students, specifically, it is our goal to write a code that will foster self-control and self-esteem. We charge the teachers, staff, administration, and parents with helping our students to develop skills that will develop appropriate behavior.

Upon critical review of Anchorage School, we have made a few important observations. On the whole, our students make good behavioral choices. For this majority, we want to write a code that will reinforce these attributes in a positive manner. To the very few who have not learned to make wise behavioral choices, our goal is to strengthen the code so that these students will not disrupt the other students' right to obtain an education, free of disruptions.

Students are capable of cooperating in the classroom if they have a clear understanding of what is expected of them and if they assume responsibility for their own actions. The teachers can deal with this in a positive manner that will encourage good behavior among the students. We believe that all students can learn self-control if given the right direction and if they take ownership of their behavior.

Parental Concerns

It is important to remember that all adults involved with any concern are working in the best interest of the student. When there is a concern, the parent should first go to the teacher involved. With prior notice, teachers can see parents before or after school or during planning periods. Parents may not interrupt classroom instruction to conference with a teacher. Phone calls will be returned. The teacher will report the concern to the principal for review. If the parent is dissatisfied with the teacher’s handling of the concern, the parent may proceed to the principal. If the concern remains after these two meetings, the parent may present specific concerns to the Superintendent. It is only after a meeting with the teacher, principal and Superintendent that a parent should approach the Anchorage School Board.

The Teacher’s Role in Discipline

The cornerstone of effective discipline is the classroom teacher. A well-managed classroom exemplified by appropriate instructional and motivational strategies will ensure a positive learning climate. Teachers are expected to handle their own discipline problems insofar as possible. To maintain a proper educational atmosphere the teacher may:

· give verbal reprimand

· require a student-teacher conference

· place in an alternative setting

· refer the student to the counselor

· notify the parents for help in the situation

· assign student detention after school

· assign constructive assignments and/or tasks (in school or non-school hours)

If the inappropriate behavior continues after the aforementioned interventions, then the student will be sent to the principal for further action.

The Counselor’s Role in Discipline

A significant number of behavioral problems are actually guidance issues in nature. The guidance counselor is a resource that both the teacher and principal may and should utilize to seek a positive resolution of difficulties being experienced by a student.

The Principal’s Role in Discipline

The principal is crucial in bringing consistency and efficacy to the Anchorage School Code of Conduct. This consistency and efficacy must be maintained with students while working with teachers at the same time to maintain the educational atmosphere needed to achieve the high academic standards expected at Anchorage School. This code provides general guidance for the principal and assistant principal as well as all school parties; however, it must be stressed that individuals and individual circumstances often need unique handling for the best results. Therefore, the principals may exercise reasonable discretion beyond the parameters of this policy -- as should teachers -- in dealing with every situation within its own specific context. The principal will notify parents any time their child is sent to meet with a principal.

The Parent’s Role in Discipline

There is no more significant influence in a child's behavior at school and his/her respect for the authority of school officials than the parent. In the spirit of cooperation with the school, parents need to acquaint themselves with the Code of Conduct and review the code with their child/children. Parents are expected to adhere to the appropriate guidelines and support their child as well as the school and faculty. Parents modeling the behavior they expect of their children is the most effective form of teaching expected behavior.

The Student’s Role in Discipline

Students are expected to have read and/or be familiar with the Code of Conduct. Students will assume responsibility for their own actions and are expected to show respect for school personnel, other students, the personal property of others, and the school buildings and grounds.

Regular and Punctual School Attendance is a Responsibility of a Student and Parent

Attendance

State law requires students to attend school every day school is in session unless they have a justifiable reason for their absence per KRS 159.030 and KRS 159.150. The parent/guardian/custodian is responsible for keeping the child in regular school attendance.

The Anchorage Board of Education recognizes that attendance is a vitally important part of the learning process and that absences may have a detrimental effect on a student’s performance. Schoolwork missed due to an absence cannot be duplicated in all situations outside the classroom, due to the nature and extent of the instruction provided, so it is essential for a student to be present. Failure to make up work can affect the student’s academics adversely. This policy is not intended to be punitive, but to stress the importance of regular attendance and to assist a student needing reasonable accommodation.

Students Shall Abide By The Laws Of Our State Or Nation And Exercise Self-Control As Required By The Particular Situation And School Rules, Or Be Subject To Removal From The Classroom Setting Or Denied Participation In Extra-Curricular Activities Or Field Trips

Examples of prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:

· Fighting and physical assaults

· Possession/Use/Distribution of a weapon

· Verbal or written threats or gestures with intent to harm or demean others

· Use/possession/distribution of alcohol or drugs, including unauthorized use of prescription or over-the-counter drugs.

· Use of tobacco products

Disruption of School

Orderly operation of the school is essential to maintaining a healthy, safe and peaceful environment conducive to learning and growth. Therefore, student acts that cause disruption in the learning process will not be tolerated, and students will be subject to the consequences as stated in this Code.

A student shall not use or attempt to use violence, physical assault, force, noise, coercion, verbal threats, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, trespass or any other conduct that will cause the substantial and material disruption or obstruction of any lawful mission, process or function of the school. A student shall not urge other students to engage in such conduct for the purpose of causing the substantial and material disruption or obstruction of any lawful mission, process or function of the school. A student will not interfere with a teacher’s ability to teach or another student’s ability to learn. A student shall not cause or attempt to cause physical injury to a teacher, administrator, school employee, another student, or other persons or visitors not employed by the school.

A student shall not use or direct to or about a school employee, student or visitor, any words, phrases or actions that are considered to be slanderous or degrading, are obscene or profane, or are threatening or terroristic in nature.

Weapons

Students shall not deposit, possess, carry, transfer or cause to be brought to school any deadly weapon or any object made to look like a deadly weapon, including but not limited to firearms, destructive devices, or booby trap devices in any school building, on the school campus, grounds or bus, or at any school-sponsored event.

Any object may be removed from students when a teacher has reason to believe that it may be used in an unauthorized manner to cause harm to person or property.

Administrators retain full authority to determine what constitutes a weapon, for school disciplinary purposes, especially when evaluating potential danger, and may consider the intent of the student.

Use/Possession/Distribution of Alcohol or Drugs, Including Unauthorized Prescription and Over-The-Counter Drugs

The Anchorage Board of Education is committed to the education of every student in drug/alcohol/tobacco abuse awareness and pledges to work cooperatively to achieve zero tolerance of substance abuse in our school.

No pupil shall possess, use, consume, sell, distribute, or be under the influence of any alcohol, controlled substance, any substance that “looks like” a controlled substance, volatile substance, any unauthorized prescription or over –the-counter drugs, or any drug paraphernalia on or about school property, at any location of a school sponsored activity, or en route to or from school or a school sponsored activity.

A “controlled substance” is defined in federal regulation and includes such drugs as marijuana, narcotics, steroids, hallucinogens, and illegal stimulants or depressants.

A “volatile substance” is defined as any glue, cement, or paint or other substance containing a solvent or chemical having the property of releasing toxic vapors or fumes which when inhaled may cause a condition of intoxication, inebriation, stupefaction, dulling of the brain or nervous system, or distortion or disturbance of the auditory, visual or mental process.

“Drug Paraphernalia’ means all equipment, products and materials of any kind which are used, intended for use, or designed for use in planting, propagating, cultivating, growing, harvesting, manufacturing, compounding, converting, producing, processing, preparing, testing, analyzing, packaging, repackaging, storing, containing, concealing, injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing into the human body a controlled substance.

A student may be considered “under the influence” when one or more of the following indicators are noted: vomiting, staggering, odor, incoherence/disorientation, slurred speech, dilated pupils, and/or other physical evidence.

It shall be unlawful for any person to intentionally smell or inhale the fumes of any volatile substance, or to induce any other person to do so for the purpose of inducing a condition described above.

No person shall intentionally sell or offer for sale, deliver or give any volatile substance to any person for purposes of inhalation in violation of this section.

Toward the goal of maintaining a drug and alcohol-free environment, while acknowledging that drug and alcohol dependency is an illness that requires assistance and treatment, the Board fully supports the provision of instruction in the areas of substances abuse prevention and intervention.

Use of Tobacco Products

Use of any tobacco product is prohibited in any facility operated by the Anchorage Board of Education where children routinely or regularly attend.

No student shall carry or use any tobacco products in school on any school premises or at any school-sponsored activity. Violators will be given information about the health risks of tobacco use and the assistance if they decide to quit using tobacco products.

School Property Belongs To The School District And The State. It Must Be Protected And Preserved For Educational And Community Use

· Students shall respect school property and the property of others. Examples of prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:

· Theft of school property or personal property of employees or other students

· Abuse of school or personal property, including intentional or careless damage or destruction

· Extortion of money or property

· Prohibited use of electronic media and other district or school technology resources

· Littering

Theft and Abuse of School Property

The Council expects all students and parents/guardians/custodians to respect school property and the property of others. School and district property must be preserved and maintained for the benefit and use of all students and staff. A student shall not misuse, damage or destroy school or private property. A student shall not attempt to steal public or private property, or be in the possession of any stolen public or private property.

Student Acceptable Use of Technology

The Anchorage Board of Education supports the use of varied technology as instructional tools and expects every student to demonstrate skills in the use of technology. The Superintendent shall implement procedures for each family’s right to decide whether or not to allow their child to have access. Access is a privilege, not a right.

Students are responsible for appropriate behavior just as they are in classrooms and school hallways. Therefore, general school rules for behavior apply. Access to network services is offered to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Parent permission is required before access is allowed. Based upon the acceptable use guidelines, outlined in this document, the school administrators will deem what is inappropriate use, and their decisions are final. The administration and staff may revoke or suspend user access when these terms are violated.

Students will:

· Use the network for educational purposes such as conducting research for assignment

· Use appropriate language, avoiding swearing, vulgarities, or abusive language.

Students will not:

· Transmit or receive materials in violation of federal or state regulations pertaining to copyright, or threatening or obscene materials, including sexually explicit materials;

· Use for commercial activities, product promotion, political lobbying, or illegal activities;

· Break into/attempt to damage, move/remove software, hardware or files;

· Use unauthorized multi-user games;

· Use unauthorized software products or monopolize resources by running large programs which adversely affect network performance;

· Create or share computer viruses; or maliciously attempt to harm or destroy data of another user

· Provide their password to anyone;

· Use or alter anyone else’s Student account

Students Shall Work Cooperatively And Productively With Each Other And With School Personnel In A Manner That Is Consistent With Standards Of Respect And Courtesy

Examples of prohibited behaviors that would detract from a safe and orderly learning environment include, but are not limited to:

Making abusive and harassing statements regarding race, gender, disability, religion or nationality.
Use of profanity
Lying
Ignoring or breaking rules and procedures established to maintain order
Otherwise behaving in a manner that is disrespectful of others
Disrespect/insubordination
Cheating and falsification of records

Honesty, Respect and Fair Dealing

A student shall comply with directions of teachers, student teachers, substitute teachers, teacher aides, the principal and school administrators or other authorized school personnel. A student shall not cheat on school tests or knowingly give false information or alter any records, official or otherwise. A student in violation will be dealt with according to the consequences of this Code.

Harassment And Intimidation Of Students

Definitions:

· “Complaints” shall mean a written claim by a student or a parent of a student on behalf of a student, that the student has been harassed or intimidated by another student.

· “Student” shall mean any individual legally enrolled in the Anchorage public school

· “Parent” means any natural parent or legal guardian or custodian of a student legally enrolled in the Anchorage Public School system.

· “Complainant” means any student or parent of a student making a complaint in writing alleging harassment or intimidation

· “Harassment or intimidation” means repeated unwelcome physical or verbal conduct, including bullying directed toward an individual, which may embarrass, offend or degrade or otherwise cause harm to the individual, or has the effect of creating a hostile environment because it unreasonably interferes with the student’s school work, school performance, or participation in school-related activities. “Harassment” and intimidation may also include “hazing,” which is any activity that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental health or safety of a student for the purpose of intimidation or membership into an organization recognized by the Board and is considered a forced activity even if this student appears to participate willingly.

Harassment or Intimidation of Students Prohibited

Harassment or intimidation, as defined in law, by students, school employees or third parties against other students is strictly prohibited in the Anchorage Independent School system and at all times, in connection with school sponsored activities and will not be tolerated. Each incident will be investigated in a timely manner and information concerning the incident, including the identity of the alleged victim, will be kept confidential to the extent permitted by law, but will be used in the course of the investigation and shared with those persons with a need to know. In the event that harassment or intimidation is determined to exist, following investigation and due process, the offending student(s) will be disciplined in accordance with the Code of Acceptable Behavior and Discipline, including without limitation, referral to local officials for legal action where appropriate. Additionally, the school shall consider the appropriateness of a variety of intervention strategies and then implement appropriate intervention strategies for the offending student(s) in an attempt to prevent future harassing conduct. The school shall also consider the appropriateness of and necessity for a variety of counselling options for the victim and the bully.

Complaint Procedure:

Level 1	A student who feels aggrieved or reports when others are being harassed, may make a written complaint to the building principal or other office administrator with whom the student feels comfortable sharing the information. The principal or administrator shall conduct a full investigation, interviewing all available witnesses. The principal shall make a decision and arrive at a resolution of the issues, after consultation with any other administrator involved in the investigation within five (5) school days of receiving the complaint. The principal shall provide the parent of the student complaint via hand-delivery or certified mail, the written decision. These timelines may be extended for extenuating circumstances which shall be noted in the decision.
Level 2	If the student is not satisfied by the resolution and decision the principal reached, the student may file a written appeal within five (5) school days, with the Superintendent specifying the reasons why the principal’s decision should be overturned. The Superintendent may seek additional information from the principal, complainant/student or witnesses. The Superintendent shall issue his decision within three (3) school days, stating his decision on the appeal and the reasons for the decisions, and shall notify the principal and the complainant via hand-delivery or certified mail. This timeline may be extended for extenuating circumstances, which shall be noted in the decision.
	Retaliation against any person for filing a complaint for harassment or intimidation is prohibited.

SEXUAL HARRASSMENT AND DISCRIMINATION

Definitions:

· “Complaint” shall mean an oral or written claim by a student or a parent of a student on behalf of student that has been unfairly or inequitably treated as a victim of sexual discrimination or harassment.

· “Student” shall mean any individual legally enrolled in the Anchorage School district

· “Parent” means any natural parent a legal guardian or custodian of a student legally enrolled in the Anchorage School district.

“Complainant” means any student or parent of a student, making a complaint in writing alleging discrimination or harassment on the basis of sex as determined in Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
“Coordinator” means the person designated to serve as coordinator of Title IX for the Anchorage School district as hearing officer for appeals made from decisions rendered by principal
“Sexual harassment” means verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, imposed on the basis of sex that denies limits, provides different treatment, or conditions the provisions of aid, benefits, services, or treatment protected under the Title IX. This includes but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favor and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, which constitutes sexual harassment when (1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or of a student’s grade or other measure of performance in a school activity, (2) submission or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for employment decisions or for academic decisions affecting that individual, or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonable interfering with the individual’s work or school performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.

A non-exhaustive list of examples of conduct that constitutes sexual harassment includes: unwelcome advances: conduct which the recipient neither asks for nor invites and which he or she regards as undesirable or offensive, including threats or intimation of sexual relations or sexual contact; verbal conduct; oral or written derogatory or vulgar comments regarding a person’s sex; graphic comments about a person’s anatomy; sexually suggestive objects or pictures painted, drawn or placed on school property that may embarrass or offend the person; sexually degrading works, whether spoken or written, to describe a person or propositions of a sexual nature; physical conduct: touching another person in a sexually suggestive way, including kissing, pinching or rubbing up against, or otherwise intentional touching of any part of a person’s body; physical conduct, such as pushing, hitting or threats to take such action in connection with any sexual advances; hostile environment: spreading sexual gossip, including remarks of sexual prowess or activity; staring or leering with sexual connotations; pressure for sexual activity; obscene gestures.

Sexual Harassment of Students Prohibited

Sexual harassment, as defined in law, by students, school employees, or third parties against other students is strictly prohibited in the Anchorage School district and at all times in connection with school sponsored activities and will not be tolerated. Any complaints should be lodged in accordance with Board Policy. Each incident will be investigate in a timely manner and information concerning the incident, including the identity of the alleged victim, will be kept confidential to the extent permitted by law, but will be used in the course of the investigation and shared with those persons with a need to know. In the event that sexual harassment is determined to exist, following investigation and due process, the offending student(s) will be disciplined in accordance with Board Policy, including, without limitation, referral to local officials for legal action where appropriate. Additionally, the school shall consider the appropriateness of a variety of invention strategies and then implement appropriate intervention strategies for the offending student(s) in an attempt to prevent future sexually harassing conduct. The school shall also consider the appropriateness of and necessity for a variety of counselling options for the victim.

The present state of the law suggests that sexual harassment is based upon the views and reaction of the person to whom or about whom the conduct is directed, not those of the person who is accused of sexual harassment. That the offending party did not intend to commit sexual harassment or did not believe that he or she was harassing the other person may be no excuse for offensive or illegal conduct.

Complaint Procedure

A Hearing Committee, the Title IX coordinator, building principal, the Superintendent and the Board are designated to hear and resolve complaints from students and/or their parents alleging discriminatory practices in educational activities and employment as they relate to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

Level 1		A student who feels aggrieved shall make a written complain to the building principal or other office administrator with whom the student feels comfortable sharing the information. The principal or administrator shall conduct a full investigation, interviewing all available witnesses. The principal shall make a decision and arrive at a resolution of the issues, after consultation with any other administrator involved in the investigation, within five (5) school days of receiving the complaint. The principal shall provide the parent of the student complainant via hand-delivery or certified mail, the written decision.
Level 2		If the student is not satisfied by the resolution and decision the principal reached, the student may file a written appeal, within five (5) school days, with the Superintendent specifying the reasons why the principal’s decision should be overturned. The Superintendent will gather all information pertaining to the complaint from the school level and provide it to the Superintendent. At the Superintendent’s direction, the Hearing Committee Chairperson may seek additional information from the principal, complainant/student or witnesses. The Superintendent shall issue his decision within three (3) school days, stating his decision on the appeal and the reasons for the decisions, and shall notify the principal and the complainant via hand-delivery or certified mail. This timeline may be extended for extenuating circumstances, which shall be noted in the decision.
Level 3	Within five (5) school days of receiving the Superintendent’s decision, the complainant or the principal may appear the decision to the Board of Education. The Board shall schedule a hearing at the next regularly scheduled board meeting if the next board meeting is at least one week away, or the following board meeting if the upcoming board meeting is less than one week away. The hearing shall be held in closed session. The interested parties may present evidence, call witnesses, cross-examine witnesses, and be represented by counsel. Formal rules of evidence shall not apply. The Board will issue a decision according to the vote of a quorum of the Board.
Level 4	The decision of the Board shall be final unless one or more of the aggrieved parties, within three (3) days of the service of the decision upon them, shall file with the School Board a notice advising the board that it is the intention of such aggrieved party to appeal to the Circuit Court or seek redress by the Director, Office of Civil Rights, Department of Health, Education and Welfare, Washington, DC. Retaliation against any person for filing a complaint for sex discrimination or sexual harassment is prohibited.

Conduct Toward Staff and Students

No person shall direct speech or conduct toward a teacher or administrator or other school staff functioning as a board employee, when the person knows or should know that such will disrupt or interfere with normal school activities or undermine the good order and discipline of the school. No person shall bully, harass or abuse any student, school employee or visitor to the school.

Each classroom and/or team will have a distinct set of guidelines and expectations for students.

CONSEQUENCES OF VIOLATION

References: KR 158.150; KRS 158.153; KRS 158.154; KRS 161.190; USC 1400; 707 KAR 1:280-1:380

Description of Behavior Violation	Parent Conference	Loss of Lunchroom Privileges	After/Before School Detention	In School Suspension	Removal from Extra-Curricular Activities	Removal from Field Trips/Class Trips	Short-Term Suspension from School (1-3 days)	Long Term Suspension from School (4-10 days)	Referral to Law Enforcement &/or other agency	Initiate Expulsion Procedures
1. Arson									*
2. Assault							*	*		*
3. Bomb threats							*	*	*	*
4. Activating false alarms /Fireworks					*	*	*		*
5. Dangerous instrument (carrying, possession or use)	*			*			*
6. Defiance of authority /Refusal to follow directives. Dress Code violation	*	*	*	*	*	*
7. Disruptive Behavior /Disturbing Class	*	*	*	*
8. Drugs/Alcohol/look alike: Use/Possession								*	*	*
9. Drugs/Alcohol/look alike: Sale/distribution								*	*	*
10. Failure to attend detention		*		*	*	*
11. Fighting	*		*	*			*	*
12. Forgery/Fraud (to include cheating on tests)	*		*	*
13. Gambling	*		*	*
14. Gang activity									*	*
15. Horseplay	*	*	*	*	*	*	*
16. Theft ($300 or less)	*	*	*	*	*	*	*	*	*
17. Theft (over $300)								*	*	*
18. Leaving class without permission	*	*	*
19. Leaving school building/campus without permission/ truancy/cutting school	*	*	*		*	*	*		*
20. Inappropriate display of affection		*	*		*	*
21. Inappropriate sexual behavior/indecent exposure	*						*
22. Present in an unauthorized area	*
23. Receiving, buying or possessing stolen property								*	*	*
24. Repetition of behavior violations					*	*	*	*		*
25. Extortion								*	*	*
26. Threat/Intimidation /Harassment/Bullying	*	*	*	*	*	*	*	*	*	*
27. Tobacco products: use/possession/distribution	*		*	*			*
28. Unexcused tardiness to class	*		*
29. Vandalism	*		*				*		*
30. Violating conditions of suspension								*		*
31. Destruction of property such as books, bulletin boards, furniture, graffiti	*	*	*		*	*
32. Use of Vulgarity/Profanity	*	*			*	*
33. Possession/Accessing Pornography	*	*	*		*	*
34. Weapons: Look alike weapons/possession/carrying to school or school function								*	*	*

All of the behavior violations listed will be referred to the school administration where a student conference with the administrator will be held for all referrals.

Appeals & Due Process

In matters of discipline resulting in suspension, the student who has allegedly committed a breach of rules is entitled to due process. In general, due process includes:

1. Being informed of charges and evidence.

2. Being given the opportunity to present one's case.

3. Having the right of appeal.

Appeals may be made in writing through the administrative channels to the Board of Education. Written appeals will receive a written response. The sequence of appeal begins with the principal. The next step is with the Superintendent and with a final resolution through the Board of Education.

Suspension/Expulsion Procedures for Students with Disabilities

Special consideration should be given when dealing with disciplinary problems of students with disabilities. Frequently, such students' problems due to the unique nature of the disabilities.

Our special Exceptional Child Educator teachers are trained to manage discipline and behavior with many special techniques. The principals are encouraged to be supportive and active in those efforts. If the procedures are well defined and implemented consistently, most severe problems may be avoided. Students may learn appropriate school behavior and proper social skills.

If further consequences are needed for inappropriate behavior, then the principal and Assistant principal will use procedures that are implemented with regular program students. As with any student, out of school suspension will be avoided and used in only extreme cases.

Suspension may be used with students with disabilities, especially if it is a part of a well-defined management program. Prior to a student with disabilities accumulating ten days of suspension, an Admission and Release Committee (ARC) shall meet to discuss the student’s behavior problems. The ARC will initiate a functional behavioral assessment and behavioral intervention plan. As soon as practicable after developing the functional assessment, the ARC will convene to address behavior and shall implement those interventions. The appropriateness and correct implementation of the Individual Education Plan will be determined in an ARC meeting. A review by the ARC and other qualified personnel shall be conducted regarding the relationship between the student’s disability and the behavior subject to the disciplinary action.

The ARC will determine if the behavior is a manifestation of the disability. If the ARC determines that the behavior is a manifestation of the student’s disability, the student shall not be subject to further suspension or expulsion for the incident that was the subject of the manifestation determination. If the ARC determines that the behavior is not a manifestation of the disability, the relevant disciplinary procedures applicable to all students may be applied to the student in the same manner in which they would be applied to students without disabilities.

Expulsion is rarely, except in extreme cases, used with students with disabilities. If recommended, all ARC procedures must be followed, and it must be clearly documented that the behavior problem was not related to the student’s disability. Furthermore, even if a student with a disability is expelled, education services shall not cease completely.

Anchorage Public School

Extra Curricular Programs

Anchorage Public School

Extra Curricular Programs

PHILOSOPHY

In support of the Anchorage School’s community efforts to launch lifelong learning and prepare successful, independent learners for a global community, Anchorage offers a variety of extra curricular programs. The goal is to afford interested and dedicated students the opportunity to improve individual skills while contributing to a group endeavor. By promoting a “strive-to-improve-your-personal-best” philosophy, the extra curricular experience seeks to develop a cooperative spirit of team camaraderie that rewards effort and encourages achievement.

A new extracurricular activity at Anchorage School must be self-supporting and it must be consistent with the criteria defined below:

An extracurricular activity:

a) Is an activity of an on-going nature that is conducted under the auspices of the school;

b) May take place on or off-campus;

c) Limits participation to APS students; and

d) Has an Anchorage School sponsor

Participation Standards:

Students may participate in extracurricular programs if they have a grade point average of at least at 2.0, no failing grades in any subject, with nothing less than a Satisfactory conduct grade. Students may be reinstated to the team if the grades or conduct marks are raised to a passing grade. Student midterm grades may be checked every Friday and once the grades are acceptable, they may be reinstated. A Trimester grade takes a student off the team until the next midterm grade, which is six weeks.

Students may participate in one sport per season.

On game days, a student is required to be in attendance at school for a minimum of 210 minutes in order to participate in the game.

Recognition for Extracurricular Programs

All Middle School Academic and Athletic Teams will have an end of the year celebration outside of the school day. The celebration may not be of an overnight nature. Every team member will receive an award at the celebration.

ANCHORAGE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Sharon Stokley serves as the Academic Director. She may be reached by email at sharon.stokley@anchorage.kyschools.us or by phone at 245-2121 extension 2118.

Anchorage offers a full range of academic opportunities from October through May of each school year.

Anchorage Academic programs will provide:

An environment where faculty, parents, and students promote the welfare of others.
Expectations where students are encouraged to take responsibility for themselves.
Opportunities for students to develop strategies for coping with adversity and celebrating diversity.
Challenges to set and achieve high academic goals.
A safe environment that includes a sense of belonging.
Opportunities for students to take risks, make mistakes and learn from them.
Opportunities for students to understand the value of being life long learners.

Math Team

The Anchorage Mathematics Team prepares student mathletes for academic competitions such as Governor’s Cup and Math Counts. The team meets once a week on Monday afternoons from 3:15PM to 4:15PM (Room 119) to practice and refine problem-solving skills and strategies. Preparation for such academic challenges builds mathematics skills, promotes logical thinking, and sharpens students’ analytical abilities. After several months of work, a team of four students will be selected to comprise the school Math Counts Team. In addition to the team, four other students will be selected to enter as individual competitors. In order to build a strong team, we encourage those 6^th, 7^th and 8^th grade students who have a high interest in mathematics and a willingness to work hard to participate in a rewarding experience that will enhance their classroom performance.

Participation Fee: $60

7-8 Academic Team

In October, each seventh and eighth grader receives an invitation to join the Academic Team. It is important to remember that every student can make valuable contributions to the Academic Team. Our goal is to involve as many interested and dedicated students as possible.

Practices begin in November. During practice sessions, the team members learn the rules for different events, plot their competition strategy, and expand their knowledge of Kentucky’s Core Content through exploration and review activities.

Team members are expected to attend at least one practice each week until the Governor’s Cup Competition in February. Team members with excellent attendance, exemplary behavior, and improved statistics are given first consideration during the competition selection process. After Governor’s Cup, the team takes a short break. Then an optional spring practice schedule is set for team members interested in any of the competitions held in the spring.

The various 7-8 Academic Team Activities are described below:

Pre-Season – Eighth graders volunteer to represent Anchorage in any pre-season invitational tournaments.

International Knowledge Masters Open- December and April

This competition is designed to stimulate academic interest and to provide recognition for academic accomplishment. The team works together to answer 200 questions sent on a computer disk from the International Knowledge Master in Colorado. The questions address all curriculum areas and require higher-order thinking skills. Bonus points given for speed and accuracy add an exciting dimension to the competition.

Kentucky Governor’s Cup Competition- January, February, March

The Academic Team members participate in the following Governor’s Cup events: Quick Recall (team competition); English Composition (on-demand writing prompt); and Written Assessments (50 multiple choice and an open response tie-breaker) in Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Language Arts; and Arts/Humanities. Students compete at the District level for the opportunity to advance to the Regional and State Competition.

Scholastic Challenge- March

Eighth grade Academic Team members may choose to compete in the American Scholastic Achievement League’s 100 question Scholastic Challenge. Individual students are recognized for academic excellence.

Derby Festival Academic Challenge- April

Team members participate in both the Quick Recall Tournament (team event) and the multiple-choice assessment (individual event).

Participant Fee: $75

6^th Grade Academic Team

In October, each sixth grader receives an invitation to join the Academic Team. Recognizing that each student can make valuable contributions to the team, our goal is to involve as many interested and dedicated students as possible.

Team members are expected to attend one practice each week. During the practice sessions, the team members learn the rules for different events and expand their knowledge of Kentucky’s Core Content through exploration and review activities. Team members with excellent attendance, exemplary behavior, and improved statistics are given first consideration during the competition selection process.

The 6^th Grade Academic Team Activities are described below:

Kentucky Colonels Sixth Grade Academic Showcase- December

The Academic Team members compete in the Quick Recall tournament. Individual team members also participate in the multiple-choice Written Assessments in Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Language Arts, and Arts/Humanities.

International Knowledge Master Open- January

This competition is designed to stimulate academic interest and to provide recognition for academic accomplishment. The team works together to answer 100 questions sent on a computer disk from the International Knowledge Master in Colorado. The questions address all curriculum areas and require higher-order thinking skills. Bonus points given for speed and accuracy add an exciting dimension to this competition.

Participant Fee: $60

4-5 Academic Team

All fourth and fifth grade students are invited to join the 4-5 Academic Team. Practices give students the opportunity to enhance individual skills while contributing to a group endeavour.

The 4-5 Academic Team Activity is described below:

Kentucky’s Governor’s Cup Competition- February and March

The Academic Team members participate in the following Governor’s Cup events:

Quick Recall (team competition); English Composition (on-demand writing prompt); and Written Assessments (multiple choice and an open response tie-breaker) in Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Language Arts; and Arts/Humanities. Students compete at the District level for the opportunity to advance to the Regional Competition.

Participant Fee: $60

Odyssey of the Mind (OM)

Odyssey of the Mind (OM) is a creative problem- solving program. It helps children think outside the box at the same time encouraging team building and creativity skills. Anchorage’s Odyssey year begins in September when teams of between 5 and 7 students select an OM problem to work on until the competition in March. It may be theatrical, building a structure, technical or a mixture of these skills. The culmination of their yearlong work is presented at the Odyssey of the Mind competition where they compete against other teams who have worked on the same problem.

Teams consist of a maximum of 7 members. Configuration will depend upon the number of children signed up in each grade level. Priority will be given to children who have previously participated in the program. Returning teams and coaches will stay together wherever possible. Children who have not participated in Odyssey before will be placed on an existing team where space is available. New teams will be formed based upon the numbers signed up and the availability of new coaches. Grades will often be mixed together e.g. second and third graders or third and fourth graders.

OM meetings will initially take place once a week. These usually take place right after school. Meeting times will increase to two or three times a week after the December break as competition approaches. Weekend meetings are often necessary. The team coach will decide meeting days and times after teams are formed and student schedules are assessed.