2011-12 OPRF Student Handbook

7/31/2019 2011-12 OPRF Student Handbook

1/54

The signature below certifies the

following two items:

That I have received the 2011-2012 Student Planner& Handbook and that I acknowledge that I amresponsible for its contents;

That I hereby request the loan of secular textbooksin accordance with Public Act 79-961 of 1975, Stateof Illinois. The books will be used while the student

named below is enrolled in Oak Park and River ForestHigh School, District 200, Cook County. The booksare the property of the State and are collected at theend of the course. If the books are lost or stolen, I am

responsible to pay the replacement cost.


2/54

In an effort to promote a

healthy environment forindividuals with food

allergies, NO FOOD OR

DRINK is allowed in the

classroom.

In an effort to promote a

healthly environment forindividuals with latex

sensitivity, NO BALLOONS

are allowed in the building

or on school property.


3/54

Oak Park and River ForestHigh School

2011-2012

Student Planner & Handbook


4/54

Dear Students,

Welcome to Oak Park and River Forest High School! I would like to officially welcome

you to the land of the Huskies! I look forward to establishing positive, meaningfulrelationships with you in a variety of ways to make this school year a tremendoussuccess!

In this Student Handbook, you will find information that is vital to your success asa member of our school learning community. As your assignment book, it will also

serve you as an important organizational tool. We have included the complete schoolevents calendar for the 2011-2012 school year so that you will be able to plan ahead asyou balance academic responsibilit ies and co-curricular involvement. As you reviewall the organizations and athletic teams available to you, please know that your activeparticipation in every aspect of campus life is wanted, needed, and welcomed. Pleasetake advantage of all that Oak Park and River Forest High School has to offer!

This Student Handbook also includes the OPRFHS Student Code of Conduct. Thiscode sets forth the shared commitment to the values of honor, compassion, andrespect that have become hallmarks and traditions of Oak Park and River Forest HighSchool. You will also find an explanation of the consequences resulting from failureto follow this code. OPRFHS thrives when students are aware of the expectations thatothers have for their individual and collective behavior, and each person acts in a

manner that demonstrates this understanding. The roles and expectations for OPRFHSstudents extend beyond the limitations of the classroom. Whether attending classes,participating in school activities, eating in the cafeteria or walking about our campus,students are expected to behave in a considerate and respectful manner. Our schoolcommunity is enhanced by the special relationships that students and adults enjoy. Thegoal is for our individual and collective behavior to be a source of pride for Oak Park

and River Forest High School. We are sharing a copy of these expectations with yourparents as well, for we believe that our parents and staff members share with you theresponsibility for establishing and maintaining the proper school climate necessary foreffective teaching and learning.


5/54


6/54

Oak Park and River Forest High School201 N. Scoville Avenue

Oak Park, IL 60302(708) 383-0700

www.oprfhs.org

DIRECTORY

Board of EducationPresident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Dietra D. Millard

Vice President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Terry Finnegan

Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Amy Leafe Mc

CormackMember. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Valerie J. Fisher

Member. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Ralph H. Lee

Member . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Sharon Patchak-Layman

Member . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. John Phelan

District Leadership TeamSuperintendent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3211

Dr. Steven IsoyePrincipal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3205

Mr. Nathaniel L. RouseAssistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3372

Mr. Philip M. PraleAssistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3264

Ms. Cheryl WithamAssistant Superintendent for Human Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3214

Ms. Lauren M. SmithChief Information Officer 434 3220
http://www.oprfhs.org/http://www.oprfhs.org/


7/54

Instructional Council

English Division Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3378Mr. Daniel Cohen

Fine and Applied Arts Division Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3297Ms. Sarah Roodhouse

History Division Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3379Mr. Richard Mertz

Mathematics Division Head. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3296Ms. Julie Frey

Physical Education and Driver Education Division Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3250Mr. Dale Craft

Science Division Head. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3298Mr. William Grosser

World Languages Division Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3884Ms. Claudia Sahagun

Deans

Ms. Janel Bishop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3726Mr. James Goodfellow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3724Ms. Tia Marr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3725Ms. Alisa Walton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3727

Counselors

Ms. Brandi Ambrose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3711Ms. Meghan Cahill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3716Ms. Julie Fuentes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3709


8/54

General Information

Bookstore Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3140Ms. Jacqui Charette-BassiriRad

Director of Buildings and Grounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3198Mr. Robert Zummallen

Safety and Support Team Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3775Mr. Sam Carson

Food Services Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3142Ms. Micheline Piekarski

Health Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3234Ms. Mary Ellen Sjostrom

Registrar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3260Ms. Toula Boznos

School Resource OfficersOfficer Derrick Verge (Oak Park Police Department). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3255Officer Troy Fields (River Forest Police Department) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3256

Transition Specialist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434-3103Ms. Francine Cardascio


9/54

Excellence ........... our Tradition

Diversity .............. our Strength

Mission Statement:Oak Park and River Forest High School exists to provide all students with a superioreducation so that they may achieve their full human potential.

In pursuit of this mission, we value:

educationalexcellenceforitsownworth; abroadrangeofeducationalopportunities;

thepotentialofallstudentstolearn;

theresponsibilityofeachstudenttoachievehisorherfullpotential;

anawarenessofstudentsasindividualswithdifferentlearningstyles;

respectfortherightsofallmembersoftheschoolcommunityinasecure,safeand

caringenvironment;

asenseofcommunityandgoodcitizenship; equityacrossgroupsandfairnesstowardindividuals;

thehighschoolasacommunicatorofcommonvaluestostudents;

anappreciationofdiversity;

asenseofself-worth;

apartnershipbetweenthestudent,family,school,andcommunity.

School Mascot The Siberian HuskySchool Colors Burnt Orange and Navy BlueAthletic Affiliation West Suburban Conference

Illinois High School AssociationAccreditation State of Illinois

North Central Association ofColleges and Schools

An enthusiastic student body, dedicated and professional staff, and outstanding facilitieshave combined to create a school that lives up to its motto:

"Those Things That are Best"


10/54

Strong school spirit is characterized by:

Asenseofbelongingamongallstudents,parents,andstaff; Widespreadstudentparticipationinallschoolactivities; Goodattendanceatschoolfunctionsbystudents,teachers,parents,

andothers; Prideinacademic,athletic,andsocialaccomplishments; Reachinghighexpectationsforacademicandextracurricularexcellence;

Understandingandappreciatingtherichheritageofaccomplishment; Broadacceptanceofresponsibilitytomaintainthereputationoftheschooland

thephysicalappearanceofthebuildingandfacilities; Respectfuldecoruminallclassandextracurricularactivities.

School Hymn

Grateful praises we singOak Park High School to you,

Strong and clear our song will ringIts cadence firm and true.

Ever changing, yet the same,Alma Maters quest:

We seek, ever in her name,Those things that are best.


11/54

Keys to Academic Success

Develop a positive approach to school3 Arrive to school and classes on time.

3 Come prepared to class with appropriate books and materials.

3 Get plenty of rest in order to be able to study efficiently.

3 Write down assignments immediately in your daily planner.

3 Notify your Counselor if you are going to be absent more than two days so that you

may have homework sent to you.3 Take advantage of the variety of co-curricular activities that the school offers.

3 Leave time to relax.

Develop good study habits

3 Take advantage of study halls and study time at home to get homework done.3 Study in a quiet location with plenty of room to work and sufficient light.

3 Study at a regular time each day.

3 Review the work of each subject regularly throughout the term.

3 Keep an organized notebook or binder.

3 Avoid cramming for test and exams.

3 Devote extra time to difficult subjects.

3 Keep records of your grades.

3 Anticipate possible questions for tests and prepare answers.


12/54

Pupil Support Services

Pupil Support Services (PSS)Every student is automatically assigned to a Pupil Support Services (PSS) Team. The PSS Teamenhances the schools ability to work with students on behaviors that undermine their academicsuccess. The PSS Team provides a formal, consistent opportunity for key staff members to share vitalinformation that supports student success. The teams consist of three counselors, a dean, a studentresource manager and the substance abuse counselor. All teams are located in Rooms 207, 208 and 308.In addition, social workers for special education students, the substance abuse counselor and youthinterventionists from community agencies are all located in Room 272.

Counselors: Uponenteringthehighschool,eachstudentisassignedaCounselorwhoworkswiththe student until graduation. While at OPRFHS, students and their families will have the opportunity todevelop a close relationship with their Counselor. This continuous relationship is an essential elementof our guidance and counseling program.

The Counselor functions as the students personal, academic and college counselor. In addition

to counseling and advising students, the Counselors have responsibilities in the areas of testing,the college application process, four-year planning, career exploration, post-secondary planning,scholarships and financial aid, and scheduling.

Students may schedule appointments with their Counselor during their study halls, before or afterschool, or during their lunch periods.

Deans: Upon entering the high school, each student is assigned a Dean. The Dean assumes the

responsibility of ensuring that the learning environment is safe for all students. The Dean will workwith the student's family, counselor, teachers and support personnel in an effort to assist students withbehavioral issues, student conflicts, and any other issues that may interfere with the student's safetyand success here at OPRF. The Dean will hold each student accountable for daily attendance and forany violation of the Code of Conduct and will assign appropriate consequences.

Student Resource Managers: Students may receive individual or small group counseling for social/

emotional problems which interfere with their education. Services include assessment and linkage tocommunity agencies when appropriate, crisis intervention, drug/alcohol assessment, and small groupproblem solving. These licensed professionals are provided by Oak Park and River Forest High School,Thrive Counseling Center, Oak Park Township Youth Services, and the Oak Park Health Department.Students may be referred by teachers, counselors, deans, staff members, parents, classmates, or theymay initiate their own referrals.


13/54

Additional Student Services

S.O.L.O. (School Of Limitless Opportunities)

In an effort to meet the needs of students who benefit from a non-traditional educational setting, thedistrict provides a comprehensive educational program that meets daily in an adjusted time schedule.

Peer MediationThe peer mediation program was established to assist students in resolving their conflicts by utilizingpositive mediation techniques during an interactive, mediation session. Any staff member may referstudents for peer mediation or students can request mediation by contacting their dean, resourcemanager or counselor.

The Academic Support Program Room 393 (Study Table)All students participating in activities or athletics that violate the C Pass to Play Policy (Rule) mustattend the Academic Support Program for three (3) 50 minute sessions during that week or receiveassistance from an OPRFHS teacher (approved tutor) for 150 minutes during that week. Failure to putin the required time (hours) will result in the student becoming ineligible for co-curricular activities thefollowing week. The Academic Support Program meets from 7:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. (Monday - Friday) and

3:05 p.m. 3:40 p.m. (Monday-Thursday).

The Computer LabsStudents who need access to a computer should use the Huskie Hub located in the 3rd floor Library.The Huskie Hub is open (Monday -Thursday) from 7:15 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. and on Friday from 7:15 a.m. -3:30 p.m.

F.R.E.E./M.U.R.E.E(FemalesReachingforEducationalExcellence)(MalesUnitingtoReachEducational

Excellence)These groups were created to provide support to female and male students. Establishing a safe and calmenvironment where students can co-exist in harmony under one roof is the driving force behind theseprograms.TheF.R.E.E.andM.U.R.E.Eprogramspromotegooddecision-makingandproblem-solvingskills.


14/54

CO-CURRICULARACTIVITIES

Numerous opportunities are provided for students to meet new people and to enrich their educational

experiences through participation in activities and athletic competition. Questions regarding clubsand activities should be directed to the Assistant Principal for Student Activities. Questions regardingathletics should be directed to the Athletic Director.

ACTSO (Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological,

and Scientific Olympics)

A Place for All/GSA

Art ClubASPIRA (Latin Culture Club)

Astronomy Club

Best Buddies

Chemistry Club

Color Guard - Flags

Crest (Literary Magazine)*

Dance ClubDudes Makin' a Difference

Environmental/Biology Club

Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Gospel Choir

Huskiepalooza Planning Committee

Intramurals

Italian ClubJapanese Club

Jazz Band II *

Little Theatre Plays* (4 per year)

M.A.D.G. (Anime Club)

Madrigals

Make up, Theatrical

Marching BandMock Trial

ModelU.N.

Musicals

Orchesis *

P B d

Studio 200 *

Synchronized Swim Team

Table Tennis Club

Tau GammaTechnology/Robotics Club

Vocal Ensembles*

Wheel Throwing/Empty Bowls Club

Youth Conference

STUDENTLEADERSHIPB.O.S.S.

(Black Organization for Student Support)

Freshman Class Council

Huskie Athletic Council

J. Kyle Braid Leadership*

MSAN*

Student CouncilTheta Nu Sigma*


15/54

CO-CURRICULARACTIVITIES

Clubs and Activities

IHSA Competitive ActivitiesChess Team

Debate Team

Math TeamScholastic Bowl

Speech Team

Interscholastic Sports*

Girls: Badminton Boys: Baseball

Basketball BasketballCheerleading Cross Country

Cross Country Football

Drill Team Golf

Golf Lacrosse

Gymnastics Soccer

Lacrosse Swimming

Soccer TennisSoftball Track and Field

Swimming Volleyball

Tennis Water Polo

Track and Field Wrestling

Volleyball

Water Polo

Club SportGirls Field Hockey

Intramurals and Open Gym


16/54

Co-Curricular Guidelines

Students involved in co-curricular programs are visible representatives of Oak Park and River ForestHigh School. It is crucial that a strong link between good citizenship and opportunities for participationbe maintained.

A student who receives a detention, ISS (in-school suspension), or OSS (out-of school suspension) forany violation of the Code of Conduct while an active member of any school organization or co-curricularathletic team is ineligible to participate during the suspension period. The student may not participatein practice, competition, or student activities during the ineligibility period.

Students must follow the schools attendance policy or forfeit the right to participate in co-curricularactivities. If a student is absent from school for more than three (3) periods on the day of a competitionor event, he or she is ineligible to participate.

Whenever two or more school events in which a student is a participant are scheduled for the same time,the student has an obligation to notify all teachers, coaches or sponsors affected by the conflict of hisor her decision prior to the scheduled events.

Co-Curricular Code of Conduct

If a student is in violation of the co-curricular code of conduct at any time during the calendar year, thestudent will lose eligibility as stated in the Co-Curricular Handbook. This includes but is not limited to:possessing, transporting, or using tobacco, drugs, and/or alcohol and attending parties or activities

where these substances are being used.

Co-Curricular Handbooks are available in the Athletic Office or the Student Activity Office.

Student Activities

Information regarding participation in clubs and activities, fundraising, advertising, and procedures forstarting a club or activity can be found in the Student Activity Office, Room 174.

Frequently Asked Questions About


17/54

Q. How do I find out about clubs and activities, when they meet, and how to get involved?

A: There are many ways to get connected with activities at OPRF. First, you can always go tothe Student Activity Center (Room 174) to ask for information about club meetings, timesand dates.

Also, many clubs inform students about upcoming meetings and events during dailyannouncments at the start of 2nd period. If you missed the announcements, or cannot hearthem, they are posted each day in the Student Activity Center and in many classrooms. Youcan also ask your second period teacher to let you see the announcements.

Q: If I did not join a club in the fall or first semester, is it too late?

A: No! Most clubs and activities are open to students all year. Most clubs have open doorpolicies, and welcome members at any time, even if you cannot be there every week.

Q: How do I make time to get involved in clubs and activities? I want to be sure to focus onmy schoolwork.

A: Absolutely, schoolwork is number one, but getting involved fosters a sense of belonging,networking and time management that creates even better academic success. In fact,research shows that students who are engaged in co-curricular activities actually do betterin school. The benefits are many.

School Information

Identification (ID) Procedure and Library Card

Each student attending Oak Park and River Forest High School will be given an identification (ID) card.Students are required to WEAR their current ID card around the neck on the lanyard provided. It mustbe visible (not tucked down a shirt or in a pocket) at all times. This allows each student to be easilyidentified and improves building safety. Lunch periods will also be shown on all IDs. This ID card also

serves as your OPRFHS library card. Students not wearing their ID will not be allowed to enter thebuilding, classrooms or other locations in the building (cafeteria, library, labs, tutoring center, collegecenter, etc.) If students are noticed not wearing their ID they will be sent to a member of the Safety andSupport Team (SST, security guard) or to the Attendance Office (Room 104) to be issued a temporary IDor to purchase a replacement ID for $5.00. Additional lanyards can also be purchased for $1. The SSTmember will distribute the temporary IDs and a pass from the PlascoTrac device they will be carrying.


18/54

1 4 = printed warning511 = 1 hour detention12 = Saturday detention1315 = 1 hour detention16 = 1/2 day In-School Suspension17-19 = 1 hour detention20 = 1 day In-School Suspension21+ = Dean Referral. Consequences may include but are not limited to: restricted lunch, social

probation, parent conference, ISS.

Note: More detailed information will be provided to students and parents at the beginning of the school

year.

LOCKS AND LOCKERS

Locker Assignments and Lock Purchases

All students who enter the school for the first time receive a lock and locker assignment. Students will

keep the same lock and locker from the time they enter the high school until graduation. Each fall,students must verify their lock and locker assignment at the school bookstore before they are giventheir first semester schedule. In addition, students are assigned a gym locker in their Physical Educationclass. Academic and P.E. locks can be purchased in the Bookstore. Students must bring their P.E. lockto their first Physical Education class in order to receive a gym locker assignment.

Lock and Locker Guidelines

Locks and lockers are provided for the safety and convenience of students. It is important to keep yourlocker locked at all times and follow the guidelines listed below:

Pushlockdownuntilitclicks;thenspinthedial. Keepthelockcombinationprivateanduseonlytheassignedlocker. Donotsharelockerswithotherstudents. Topreventsomeonefromswitchingyourlockwiththeirs,donotleaveyourlock

unattended at any time. ReportanytroublewithyourlockorlockertotheSafetyandSupportOfficeinRoom

264. Donotdefacelockers. Cleanoutandremovelockandlockercontentsattheendoftheschoolyear.Ifthisis

not done, the lock and contents will be removed by the school and may be discarded.


19/54

a name and check number. Please write the phone number of the signer and the studentID number on the check. The Bookstore does not accept any business checks (includingDBA).

Books/SuppliesThe Instructional Materials Fee (IMF) of $320 per student enrolled at OPRFHS covers all instructionalmaterials for all courses during both semesters of the school year. This mandatory fee should be paidonline along with the District Fee.This Instructional Material Fee includes the first set of: District-loaned textbooks (checked out to individual students). All textbooks must be

returned at the end of the year (or semester, for semester long classes) by publicized

deadlines to avoid replacement and late return charges. Paperbackbooksandworkbooks(studentskeep) Coursearticlepackethandouts(studentskeep) Initialartandphotosupplykits(studentskeep) Labkits(studentskeep)The items NOT included in the fee are: PEuniforms Calculators

Locks Additional/replacementoflostbooks,artandphotosupplies Purchaseofadditionalartandphotosuppliesasneededthroughouttheyear Personalschoolsupplies(notebooks,pens,pencils,binders,etc.)

If a family feels this fee would cause economic hardship, a family can apply annually for a District Feeand Book Fee Waiver. Details on who qualifies, how to apply, and the necessary forms are availablefrom the District Fee & Book Fee Waiver link on the front page of the OPRFHS website at www.oprfhs.

org. If a family does not qualify for a waiver, payment plans can also be set up in the Bookstore. Call708-434-3740 for more information.

NOTE:Studentsmayannotatepaperbacknovels;HOWEVER,studentswillbebilledthereplacementcost of any textbook they annotate, highlight, or damage in any way. Students are strongly encouragedto use book covers to protect their textbooks to avoid repair charges at the end of the year.

Lost and FoundStudents are responsible for their belongings at all times. Care should be taken to lock hall and gymlockers securely. Lock combinations should never be shared. All items that are found should be takendirectly to Safety and Support in Room 264. Items will only be stored for a short period of time prior todisposal; books and backpacks are taken to the Bookstore If the students name ID # and the current
http://www.oprfhs/http://www.oprfhs/


20/54

Library

The OPRFHS Library has been serving students for more than a century. Founded in 1899, it was one

of the first centralized school libraries in the nation. Students are encouraged to take advantage of themany library resources available. The library maintains an impressive collection of books, databases,magazines, and local newspapers. The library catalog and databases are available at Library Serviceson the OPRFHS homepage at www.oprfhs.org.

The student ID serves as a library card for checking out books. The library is open each school day from7:15 a.m. until 3:45 p.m. except on Fridays when it closes at 3:30 p.m. Students should arrive beforethe bell, present their IDs, and stay for the whole period. Computer services for students, including

color printing and scanning, are available during library hours in the Huskie Hub located in the 3rd floorlibrary.

Students are encouraged to take responsibility for all materials they check out. While fines are notincurred for overdue books, students must pay for damaged or lost items.

Students will benefit from using the library and its resources during their years at OPRFHS. It is aplace to study, meet with classmates to work on group projects, come with their teachers and classesfor research, and select books for recreational reading. All are welcome.

Appropriate Attire

Appropriate attire and grooming are critical to the maintenance of a safe and educationally conduciveschool atmosphere. Students dress must not be disruptive to the educational environment orcompromise reasonable standards of health, safety, and decency. Individual attire and grooming are

the responsibility of the student and the students parent/guardian. Students are expected to maintaina neat and modest appearance during school and school-sponsored functions, including semi-formaland formal dances.

To insure that the rights of all students are protected, the following will not be permitted:

1. Dress or appearance which is clearly disruptive and disturbing to the maintenance of a

positive educational environment.2. Dress which displays gang symbols or drug paraphernalia, other controlled substances orother references to drugs, alcohol or tobacco.

3. Dress which displays obscenities, violence, racism or sexism, innuendoes, or otherexpressions either harmful to the normal development of younger and less mature students,or offensive to the reasonable sensibilities of students, faculty or other school personnel.
http://www.oprfhs.org/http://www.oprfhs.org/


21/54

Note: Any questions or concerns regarding these guidelines should be directed to the students Dean.The Dean is the final authority for judging the appropriateness of a student's appearance. Studentswho are in violation of the Dress Code Guidelines will be sent to the Deans' Offices in Room 207, 208,and 308. They will be instructed to change into more appropriate clothing. Repeat offenses of wearing

inappropriate attire is considered "defiance" and will result in additional disciplinary consequencesbeing issued.

Cafeteria

General Information

Two student cafeterias are available for breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks. Hot and cold breakfastsare available from 7:15 - 7:50 a.m. Lunch is served during periods 4, 5, and 6. Afternoon snacks areavailable in the North Cafeteria from 3:04 - 5:00 p.m.

Modified Campus Lunch Options

Freshman and Sophomore Lunch ProgramAll freshman and sophomore students are required to eat lunch in the South Cafeteria during theirassigned lunch period. Gathering for lunch at lockers or in the halls is not permitted.

Junior, and Senior Lunch OptionsBased upon our new policy for modified campus, junior and senior students will have the optionof eating in the North Student Cafeteria or leaving the campus during their assigned lunch period.Provided that parent permission for open campus lunch is on file with the school and the conditionsset forth by the Administration to earn the privilege of open campus lunch are met, eligible juniors andseniors who choose to leave the building must exit the building within the five-minute passing period.Gathering for lunch at lockers or in the halls is not permitted. Students who leave the building andwish to re-enterduring the lunchperiod must use the NorthCafeteria Exit 9.STUDENTSARE NOTPERMITTEDTOLOITERAROUNDTHEPERIMETEROFTHEBUILDING.

More details surrounding the Modified Campus Junior and Senior Lunch Options will be provided to

students and parents at the beginning of the school year.

Restricted Lunch

Students who violate the Code of Conduct may be assigned to Restricted Lunch by a Dean. Studentswill report to an assigned area during their lunch period for a period of time determined by their Dean


22/54

For information on STDs, birth control or pregnancy, contact the Oak Park Public Health nurse at 708-358-5484 (Room 106). NationalTeenDatingAbuseHotline:866-331-9474 ChicagoRapeCrisisHotline:888-293-2080 CommunityMentalHealthBoardofOakPark,NetworkofCare:www.cmhb-oakpark.org

Homework

Homework assignments are given with careful attention to the meaning and purpose of the homeworkactivity and its contribution to significant learning experiences for each student. In general, an averageof 40 minutes of homework per course should be anticipated each day. Specific homework expectations

are described in each teacher's course syllabus. Reading assignments, projects, papers, written reports,and study for tests and quizzes should be considered homework. All students are expected to spend theappropriate amount of time on homework.

Student Records Policy

In accordance with the Illinois School Student Records Act and the Freedom of Information Act,

procedures have been established by the Board of Education for the retention and destruction of schoolrecords and for notifying parents and students of their rights with respect to these records. All rightsand privileges accorded to a parent under this policy will become exclusively those of the student uponhis or her 18th birthday, graduation from secondary school, or marriage or entry into military service.Requests for information regarding these procedures should be directed to the Assistant Principal forStudent Services.

SolicitationSolicitation for activities, goods and services by non-school related individuals or for non-school relatedorganizations is prohibited on school property. (Advertising in school-related publications is permitted.)Solicitation of gifts from the community by students or school personnel to support specific schoolorganizations or activities is also prohibited.

Emergency Closing of SchoolIf it becomes necessary to close the high school because of inclement weather or other emergencies,metropolitan radio and television stations will be notified. Watch and/or listen for periodic announcementsrelative to the closing. The school district will be identified as Oak Park and River Forest High School,Cook County District No 200 One can also call (708) 383-0700; a recorded message will announce any
http://www.cmhb-oakpark.org/http://www.cmhb-oakpark.org/


23/54

5. Approved flyers, banners and posters may be posted on bulletin boards located above waterfountains and other designated areas. Masking tape is available in the Student Activities Office.

6. Flyers may NOT be posted in the washrooms, on doors, windows, posts, etc. Flyers that areposted incorrectly will be removed and the organization may lose posting privileges. Flyersmay not be handed out.

7. It is the responsibility of each organization to take down and recycle its dated flyers, postersand banners.

Non-School Sponsored EventsPosters, banners and flyers advertising non-school sponsored events, must also be approved in Room174. If approved, posters, banners or flyers may be posted on the Community Bulletin board, located

across from the Bookstore.

School Sponsored EventsParticipation in any activity outside of the school day is a privilege, not a right. All students must adhereto the guidelines below:

Guidelines for all Dances

Allstudentsandguestswhoplantoattendadancemustarriveduringtheannouncedtimethat the doors will be open. No one will be permitted to enter a dance after the close ofadmittance unless prior arrangements are made with the dance supervisor. Allow ample timefor parking.

StudentsmustpresenttheirschoolIDandtickettobeadmittedtodances. Studentsareexpectedtofollowthedresscodeatalldances. Studentsandguestsmaynotreturntoadanceafterleaving. Studentsshouldnotbecomeinvolvedinaproblemordiscussionbetweenasupervisorand

another student without being asked by the supervisor. Inappropriateandsuggestivedancingisnotpermitted.

Semi-Formals and Formal Dances Homecoming, King of Hearts, and Prom Ticketsmustbepurchasedinadvanceatdesignatedtimes. Ticketsmustbepurchasedindividually. Semi-formalor formal attire is required. Specific requirementsonappropriate dress are

provided to students when they purchase a dance ticket.

Penalties for Inappropriate Behavior at School-Sponsored Activities1. Students and guests are expected to obey the Code of Conduct at all School-Sponsored Activities

(on and off campus). Individualswhosebreath,actionsorresponsesindicatethattheyhaveconsumedalcoholor


24/54

Guestsmayonlyattenddancesforwhichticketsaresoldinadvance. Guestsmustbeunder21yearsofage. GuestsmustbeinGrade9orabovetoattendschool-sponsoreddances. GuestsmustbeaccompaniedbyanOPRFHSstudent.

Note: Students who want to invite non-students to semi-formal or formal dances must complete guestpermission forms (available in the Deans offices). An OPRFHS Deans signature AND the signature of aschool official from the guest's school (if applicable) are required before purchase of the ticket. The Deanretains one copy of the form, one copy is turned in to the ticket-seller at the time of the ticket purchase,and the student delivers one copy to the invited guest. Upon arrival at the dance, the invited guest must

present the form and a picture identification (drivers license or school ID). The guest must keep the form

and ID with him or her at all times.

Health Services - Room 234

Illness or Injury During SchoolStudents who are too ill to remain in class or who have been injured are to inform their classroomteacher or other appropriate staff. The student will be issued a pass to go to the Health Services

Office. If necessary, the nurse will call the students parent or guardian to arrange and excuse the earlydismissal. Otherwise the absence(s) will be unexcused. In an emergency medical situation, the nursewill obtain the appropriate medical treatment and contact the parent or guardian.

Administration of MedicationsStudents may not possess or consume any medications, including over-the-counter medications,without the express written orders of a physician. Designated faculty and staff members will administerall medication to students during school hours and during school-sponsored activities. Parents should

make every effort to give prescribed doses of medication at home. Medication will only be administeredwhen it is necessary to maintain the student in school.

Student Accidents and InjuriesOak Park and River Forest High School provides accidental medical and dental insurance coverage forinjuries incurred during school hours and during any school sponsored event. Students are coveredwhile traveling to and from such events when transportation is provided by the District. Full coverageplans are offered to families through the District's plan administrator. Brochures are available at theWelcome Center, Health Service Center and the Business Office of the high school.

ElevatorUseStudents must obtain a special permit from the school nurse in order to use the elevators. Permits arelimited to students with temporary and permanent disabilities. Long term use of the elevator requires


25/54

Withdrawals and TransfersIn accordance with Section 2-3.13 (a) of the Illinois School Code, all public school districts must providea student transfer form to any student who is moving out of the school district. This form verifieswhether that student is in good standing and if his or her medical records are up-to-date and complete."In good standing" means that the student is not being disciplined by an out-of-school suspension orexpulsion, and is currently entitled to attend classes. No public school district is required to admit a newstudent unless he or she can produce this information from the students previous public school.

Residency RequirementsAccording to the Illinois School Code, every student who attends Oak Park and River Forest High Schoolmust reside in Oak Park or River Forest with his or her legal guardian. It is against the law to:

1) Enroll or attempt to enroll a student on a tuition-free basis when the person enrolling the studentknows that the student is not a resident of Oak Park and River Forest High School, District. 200.

2) Knowingly or willfully present to Oak Park and River Forest High School, District 200, any falseinformation regarding the residency of a student for the purpose of enabling the student to attendon a tuition-free basis.

Note: Evidence of these crimes may be turned over to law enforcement authorities, and violations arepunishable by up to 30 days in prison and a $500 fine. District 200 will charge tuition beginning on the

day the student was enrolled illegally in the District through the time the student is dropped.

AttendanceAttendance Line: (708) 434-3104 -- (24 Hour Voicemail is Available)

In accordance with the requirements of the School Code of Illinois and in recognition of the

responsibilities of parents or guardians, it is the policy of District 200 that students must attend schoolon a regular basis. Regular class attendance increases the students probability for academic successand fosters the development of self-discipline and responsibility. Students are expected to attend eachclass and study hall daily. Parents are obligated to contact the school when their student is absent. If aparent/guardian is leaving their student in the care of another adult for a short period of time, please callthe Attendance Office ahead of time to provide the name and contact information of that adult.

Village Ordinance School CurfewUndertheSchoolCodeofIllinois,itisunlawfulforanypersonovertheageoffive(5)andundertheageofeighteen (18) who is enrolled in any public or parochial school to be present in any public place, building,street, or assembly in the Village of Oak Park, other than school, while school is in session during theregular school term. A police officer may stop and detain a person whom the officer reasonably suspectsto be violating this section. Any student violating this section shall, if practical, be taken to school

th iti t/ di d b i d ti t i th i i l t


26/54

Full Day AbsencesFailure to contact the Attendance Office before 9:00 p.m. the day of the student's absence will result inan unexcused absence and the student will be considered truant.

In order for a full day absence to be considered excused, the students parent/guardian is required tomake a telephone call to the Attendance Office before 9:00 p.m. on each day of the absence. Voice-mailis available to leave messages. Guardians will be asked to supply the following information: Studentsname; IDnumber; Date(s)ofabsence(s); Reasonforabsence.

Partial Day AbsencesFor the safety of all students, advance notice from or contact with a parent/guardian is required toexcuse any absence related to an early dismissal or late arrival. The phone number for the Attendance

Office is 708-434-3104.

1. Parents/guardians are to call the Attendance Office in advance when the need for an earlydismissal is anticipated. The call must be made by the end of the first period of missed class.When a student is excused to leave school early, he/she must report to the Attendance Office(Room 104) to receive an authorized early dismissal pass. This early dismissal pass must bepresented to Safety and Support when leaving the building.

2. Students who return to class before the end of the day must report to the Attendance Officewhen re-entering the building. The Attendance Office will supply students with an admit passto their next class.

3. Students who need to leave school due to illness or injury may be excused only by the

OPRFHS Health Service Office/Nurse. The nurse will contact a parent/guardian to authorizethe early dismissal. For safety reasons, students authorized by the school nurse to go homeon their own are to call the Health Service Office when they arrive.

4. Students who need to leave school due to an emergency (not illness or injury) may beexcused only by their Dean, Counselor, or the Attendance Office.

5. Absences for students who leave school without proper authorization as outlined above willbe unexcused. Parent/guardian calls after a student leaves school without following theabove procedures will not excuse the absence(s) and will be subject to school consequences

for unexcused absences.

Students are allowed full make-up privileges for excused absences: Illnessand/ordoctorsappointments Deathintheimmediatefamily

Family emergency


27/54

UnexcusedAbsencesFailure to contact the Attendance Office before 9:00 p.m. will result in an unexcused absence and thestudent will be considered truant. In addition, any absence not covered by the reasons listed for excusedabsences will be considered unexcused. A tardy for more than 10 minutes will be considered unexcused.Single-period absences will only be excused if they are pre-arranged through the Attendance Office. OakPark and River Forest High School does not recognize or condone ditch days. Truancy is a Class IIinfraction as described in the Code of Conduct. The Deans handle all attendance related infractions.

ParentorGuardianNotificationofUnexcusedAbsencesUnexcusedstudentabsenceswillbereportedtotheparentorguardianviatheautomatedcallingsystem.Calls will be made to the home phone number unless the parent/guardian requests a secondary number

be contacted. It is extremely important that the parent/guardian promptly notify the school when thereis a change in phone numbers.

The "NP or NF" Grade

NP- No credit - withdrawn from class for attendance reasons- passingNF- No credit - withdrawn from class for attendance reasons- failing.

Four (4) unexcused absences during any semester will result in an NP or NF grade and the studentmay be removed from the class unless a recommendation is made by the teacher for the student tocontinue in class because of extenuating circumstances. NP or NF grades receive no credit towardcompletion of graduation requirements.

Twelve (12) total absences, excused or unexcused, may result in the student receiving a NP or NF grade.If a student is dropped from a class due to attendance, the grade will be documented on the students

report card as a (NP) withdrawn for attendance-passing or an NF withdrawn for attendance- failing. Thecumulative number of total absences will appear on the students progress reports and grade reports.

UnexcusedAbsenceAppealsIn cases where additional information may have an effect on unexcused absences, an appeal may bemade. The student will remain in class during the appeal process.

1. An appeal form must be obtained from the Attendance Office.

2. This form must be returned to the Attendance Office within three (3) school days afterreceiving notice that the student will receive an N grade.

3. The parent will be notified of the appeal date and time.4. The parent will be notified of the final decision following the attendance appeal hearing.

Senior Ditch Days


28/54

1 4 = printed warning511 = 1 hour detention12 = Saturday detention1315 = 1 hour detention16 = 1/2 day In-School Suspension17-19 = 1 hour detention20 = 1 day In-School Suspension21+ = Dean Referral. Consequences may include but are not limited to: restricted lunch, social

probation, parent conference, ISS.

The above tardy count refers to the overall number of tardies to all classes. A tardy for more than 10

minutes will be considered an unexcused absence. A student who has accumulated 12 tardies in anindividual class, excused or unexcused, may be dropped or receive no credit for that class.

Students must serve their PlascoTrac detentions by the end of the next school day. Detentions can beserved before school, after school, and during all lunch periods. Students should speak to their Dean tomake a different arrangement if they cannot serve their detention by the next school day.

District 200 encourages parents/guardians to schedule all necessary student appointments during

times outside of the school day. We recognize, however, that this is sometimes difficult to avoid. Theywould only receive a warning from the PlascoTrac system. Even if students are late due to a legitimateappointment, they are still considered tardy and will have to get their warning slip from the PlascoTracsystem. Call-ins to excuse a tardy for a student who has fewer than four (4) tardies will not be acceptedby the Attendance Office. Beyond the 4th tardy, a student may only avoid a consequence by providingproper documentation to excuse the tardy. The documentation must be brought in by the student to theAttendance Office, Room 104, as soon as they arrive to school in order to excuse the tardy they justreceived. Acceptable documentation includes notes from doctors, dentists, therapists/counselors, court

appearances and obituaries. Hand-written notes from parents/guardians will not be accepted. A copy ofthe documentation will be kept in a file by the Attendance Office staff.

Board of Education Policy 6160 Academic Honesty

Staff, parents and students are responsible for maintaining the academic integrity of the school. Theatmosphere in each classroom, gymnasium, laboratory, library or support center should actively foster

academic honesty, as should the atmosphere in the home of each student. Staff should be clear intheir advocacy of academic honesty by discussing this topic with their students. Faculty will attemptto employ strategies that reduce the opportunity for dishonesty. Parents should continually emphasizeacademic honesty and integrity to their children.Any action intended to obtain credit for or recognition for work that is not ones own is consideredacademic dishonesty. These actions include, but are not limited to, the following:


29/54

Gradereductionfortheassignment. Gradereductionforthequarter. Gradereductionforthesemester. ReferraltotheDeansfordisciplinaryaction.

2. If a student denies committing academic fraud or if a student and teacher cannot mutually resolve theissue, the teacher will refer the suspected incident to the Division head for further review.

3. The Division head and teacher will review all information related to the incident to confirm thesuspicion that the academic fraud has occurred. If confirmation cannot be made, the matter will bedropped.

4. Following confirmation of the incident, the teacher will notify the Dean and parent of the suspectedacademic fraud and the Division head will notify the Instruction Center regarding the possible

violation of the Academic Honesty Policy.5. An Administrator in the Instruction Center will convene a hearing within 10 school days of receiptof such notification. The hearing panel will take testimony from the student and the teacher (and theDean, Division Head, and parents when deemed necessary) and will review all written documents.The panel will include an Instruction Center Administrator, a Division head (not from the division inwhich the alleged infraction occurred) and a Dean (not the students Dean).

6. The panel will issue a final decision within 10 school days of the hearing. Examples of appropriatepenalties are listed above. If the incident occurs at the end of a grading period a student will be given

an incomplete (I) grade until the final ruling is rendered.7. Decisions of the hearing panel can be appealed to the Superintendent for review.

Note: The Instruction Center will maintain a file of students found guilty of academic fraud in caseswhere the students grade has been reduced and/or disciplinary action was taken. A student found to beinvolved in academic fraud is subject to all delineated penalties under the Code of Conduct. Any studentwho is found guilty of academic dishonesty is not eligible for membership in the Districts honorssocieties. Current members of the societies found guilty of academic fraud are subject to removal from

the academic societies.

Board of Education Policy 5160StudentAcceptableUseofTechnology

Section1.PurposeofTechnologyUse

The Oak Park and River Forest High School District 200 provides technology resources to its students

solely for educational purposes. Through technology, the District provides access for students andstaff to resources from around the world. Expanding technologies take students and staff beyondthe confines of the classroom, and provide tremendous opportunities for enhancing, extending, andrethinking the learning process. The goal in providing these resources is to promote educationalexcellence in the District by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication with thesupport and supervision of parents teachers and support staff


30/54

No technology is guaranteed to be error-free or totally dependable, nor is it safe when usedirresponsibly. Among other matters, the District is not liable or responsible for:

1. Any information that may be lost, damaged, or unavailable due to technical, orother,difficulties;2. The accuracy or suitability of any information that is retrieved through technology;3. Breachesofconfidentiality;4. Defamatory material, or5. The consequences that may come from failure to follow District 200 policy

and procedures governing the use of technology.

Section 3. Privileges and Responsibilities

The Districts electronic network is part of the curriculum and is not a public forum for generaluse. Student users may access technology only for educational purposes. The actions of studentusers accessing networks through the District reflect on the School District; therefore, studentusers must conduct themselves accordingly by exercising good judgment and complying with thispolicy and any accompanying administrative regulations and guidelines. Students are responsible

for their behavior and communications using the Districts computers and networks. Student users oftechnology shall:

UseoraccessDistricttechnologyonlyforeducationalpurposes. Complywithcopyrightlawsandsoftwarelicensingagreements. Understandthatemailandnetworkfilesarenotprivate.Networkadministratorsmayreviewfiles

and communications to maintain system integrity and monitor responsible student use. Respecttheprivacyrightsofothers. Beresponsibleatalltimesfortheproperuseoftechnology,includingproperuseof

access privileges, complying with all required system security identification codes,and not sharing any codes or passwords.

Maintaintheintegrityoftechnologicalresourcesfrompotentiallydamagingmessages, physical abuse, or viruses.

Abidebythepoliciesandproceduresofnetworksandsystemslinkedbytechnology.

Student users of technology shall not:

Access,download,create,sendordisplayoffensivemessagesorpictures. Useharassing,offensive,obsceneordefamatorylanguage. Harassorattackothers.

Vandalize or damage computer equipment, systems, networks, hardware, software,


31/54

Board of Education Policy 5152 Cellular Telephones

Students are prohibited from using cellular telephones while on school property or engaged in off-campus school activities during the hours of school operation from 7:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Cellulartelephones must be turned off and stored out of sight in the students assigned locker, book bag, orpurse during the hours of school operation.

Useofacellulartelephoneafterschoolorataschoolsponsoredevent,onoroffthecampus,inamanner that creates a material or subsequent disruption to the school setting or where a serious safetyconcern is presented, subjects the offending student(s) to receiving a more serious consequence inaccordance with the Student Code ofConduct. Use ofa cellular telephone to threaten, intimidate,bully, harass, invade privacy or violate the Academic Honesty Guidelines will result in disciplinary

consequences appropriate to the Student Code of Conduct.

Oak Park and River Forest High School is NOT responsible for lost or stolen electronic devices.

Section 4. Disciplinary Actions

Violations of this policy, or of any administrative regulations and guidelines governing the use oftechnology, may result in disciplinary action which could include loss of network access, loss oftechnology use, suspension or expulsion, or other appropriate disciplinary action. Violations of local,state or federal law may subject students to prosecution by appropriate law enforcement authorities.

Section 5. No Expectation of Privacy

The Districts electronic network is part of the curriculum and is not a public forum for general use.Usersshouldnot expect thatemailor filesstoredonDistrict serverswillbeprivate. The District

reserves the right to log technology use, to monitor fileserver space utilization by users, and toexamineusersfilesandmaterialsasneeded,andatitsdiscretion.Usersmustrecognizethatthereisno assurance of confidentiality with respect to access to transmissions and files by persons outside,or from persons inside the District.

Section 6. Additional Rules/Actions

The Superintendent or his/her designee may establish regulations and guidelines, and shall take

appropriate action to implement this Policy.


32/54

Board of Education Policy 5114-4 Prohibition Against Bullying, Hazing,Harassment, and Cyberbullying

It is the policy of Oak Park and River Forest High School, District 200 to provide an educationalenvironment free from bullying, hazing, harassment, and cyberbullying. The School District iscommitted to protecting its students from any form of physical, verbal, or mental abuse.

Definitions1. Bullying:

Bullying is defined to include, but is not limited to, any aggressive or negative gesture,electronic communication, or written, verbal or physical act that places another student inreasonable fear of harm to his/her person or property, or that has the effect of insulting or

Board of Education Policy 5310 Sexual Harassment or Other Harassmentof Students

Sexual or other types of prohibited harassment which may include, but is not limited to, race, color,national origin, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation or disability derogates the dignity andprivacy of the recipient student, is disruptive to the learning environment, and violates state and federallaw. Therefore, District policy expressly prohibits all sexual harassment of students and encouragesreporting of offenses against this policy. Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances,requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassmentoccurs when:

1) Submitting or refusing to submit to conduct that is used as a factor in any decision that affects thestudents education or as a condition of obtaining equal education benefits.

2) That conduct which has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensivelearning environment.

Individuals who believe that they have suffered a violation under this policy are encouraged to file acomplaint with any faculty member, the students Counselor, or Dean. One of the two District Sex EquityCoordinators may be notified of the complaint. The District's Sex Equity Coordinators are:

1. Ms. Lauren M. Smith (Room 214, 434-3214)2. Ms. Gwendolyn Walker-Qualls (Room 272, 434-3817)

Note: False allegations of sexual harassment can be extremely harmful to the alleged offender. Suchallegations are not protected under this policy and may subject the complainant to disciplinary action.

.

.


33/54

pushing, hitting, or other forms of physical aggression. Where harassment is sexual, it mayalso include such conduct as persistent unwelcome attempts to interact with someone,spreading of rumors, aggressive physical contact such as kissing, touching, or pulling atclothes in a sexual way.

Sexual harassment also includes unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favorswhena. submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly as a condition

ofthereceiptofeducationalorotherschool-relatedbenefits;orb. submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis

for educational or other school-related decisions affecting that individual.4. Cyberbullying:

Cyberbullying is a subset of bullying, hazing, and harassment. For purposes of this policy,cyberbullying is defined as the use of e-mail, instant messaging, chat rooms, pagers, cellphones, or other forms of information technology to deliberately bully, haze, harass, threaten,or intimidate someone. Cyberbullying can include, but is not limited to, such acts as makingthreats, provocative insults or racial or ethnic slurs, or demeaning remarks about onessexual orientation.

Prohibited Conduct

1. It shall be a violation of Board of Education policy for a student, employee, or any schoolvisitor to bully, haze, harass, or cyberbully a student or to engage in conduct which wouldactively or passively support acts of bullying, hazing, harassment, or cyberbullying.

2. It shall be a violation of Board of Education policy for a student to report false allegations ora false complaint of bullying, hazing, harassment, or cyberbullying.

3. It shall also be a violation of the policy for an employee, student, or any school visitorto retaliate against a student for instituting a good-faith complaint of bullying, hazing,

harassment, or cyberbullying.

ComplaintsA student who feels that he/she has been bullied, hazed, harassed, or cyberbullied should inform aSchool District staff member. All school employees are required to report alleged violations of this policyto the Principal or his/her designee. All other members of the school community, including students,parents/legal guardians, volunteers and visitors are encouraged to report any act that may be a violationof this policy.

TherearenoexpressedtimelimitsforinitiatingcomplaintsunderthisBoardpolicy;however,everyeffortshould be made to bring complaints to the attention of appropriate authorities as soon as possible whilememories are fresh and witnesses continue to be available.


34/54

Disciplinary Consequences1. Violation of this policy may result in discipline. If the harasser is an employee, discipline

will be determined in accordance with Board policy and the provisions of any applicablecollective bargaining agreement. Students who violate the policy will also be subject to

appropriate discipline in accordance with Board policy and the Districts Code of Conduct.Appropriate discipline may include suspension and/or expulsion.

2. Students may be disciplined for acts of bullying, hazing, harassment, or cyberbullyingoccurring on or off-campus and/or outside of school hours in the same manner they areotherwise subject to discipline for acts that violate School District policies and/or procedureswhenactscould(1)affecttheschoolclimateoratmosphere;(2)affectthepeace,health,safety,orwelfareofstudents,teachers,oranyotherpersonnel;and/or(3)disruptorinterferewith school or school activities. Any violation is subject to suspension and/or expulsion.

3. The parents/guardians of students who commit any act of bullying, hazing, harassment, orcyberbullying will be notified.

4. The School District reserves the right to make referrals for students in violation of this policyto appropriate mental health and law enforcement professionals.

Notification

The School District shall annually communicate this policy to students and their parents/guardians.This annual notification shall include disseminating information to all students and parents/guardians explaining the serious disruption caused by bullying, hazing, harassment, and cyberbullyingand that these behaviors will be taken seriously and are not acceptable in any form.

AdoptionandUpdateofPolicy

The Board of Education shall update this policy beginning every 2 years after the policy's initial

adoption and shall file this policy with the Illinois State Board of Education after the Board adopts orupdates it.


35/54

Section 504 - ADA Grievance Procedures

Oak Park and River Forest High School District 200 (OPRFHS) does not discriminate on the basis of

disability with regard to admission, access to services, treatment, or employment in its programs oractivities. Any qualified individual who wishes to complain about alleged discriminatory treatmentfalling under Section 504 or Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (Title II) shall be addressed bythe following grievance procedure.

This grievance procedure is established to meet the requirements of Section 504 of the RehabilitationAct of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The District strongly prohibits retaliation onthe basis of any grievance filed under this policy.

Step 1: Informal Resolution

If a person believes that he or she has a valid basis for making a grievance under Section 504 or Title II,he or she shall informally discuss the grievance with the District's 504/Title II Compliance Coordinator:

Jeremiah Wiencek, Assistant Principal for Student ServicesOak Park and River Forest High School District 200

201 N. Scoville AvenueOak Park, IL [email protected]

A grievant must notify the Compliance Coordinator of his or her informal Section 504/Title II grievancewithin sixty (60) days of the occurrence. Unless the grievance can be resolved informally, theCompliance Coordinator will investigate and document the grievance (including dates of meetings,disposition, and dates of disposition). These rules contemplate informal but thorough and impartialinvestigations, affording all interested persons and their representatives, if any, an opportunity to submitevidence relevant to a complaint.

A written determination as to the validity of the complaint and a description of the resolution, if any,shall be issued by the Compliance Coordinator and a copy forwarded to the grievant no later than ten(10) working days after its filing.

Step 2: Formal Resolution

If the grievance is not satisfactorily resolved by Step 1, the grievant may file a formal, written grievancewith the Compliance Coordinator within five (5) working days of receiving the Compliance Coordinator'sdisposition from Step 1 The grievant shall include his or her name address a brief description of the
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]


36/54

Step 3: Appeal to the Board of Education

If the grievance is not satisfactorily resolved during Step 2, the grievant may file a written appeal withthe Board of Education. Written appeals should be sent to the Superintendent's office within thirty (30)

days of the disposition at Step 2 and at least one week prior to the next scheduled Board of Educationmeeting.

Provided that the appeal is filed with the Superintendent's office within one week of the Board ofEducation's regularly scheduled meeting, the Board of Education will consider the appeal at its nextmeeting.

Within ten (10) working days of addressing the grievance, the Board of Education will issue a writtendecision to the grievant.

Step 4: Appeal to the Board of Education

If the grievance is not satisfactorily resolved during Step 3, the grievant may file an appeal with theUnitedStatesOfficeofCivilRights,DepartmentofEducation,Washington,D.C.,20201.

Student Rights and ResponsibilitiesGeneral Behavior and Conduct Guidelines

Student Rights

Oak Park and River Forest High School exists for the welfare of its students. The identification and

preservation of the rights and responsibilities of students is a major concern of the faculty, staff, andcommunity. The success of a students educational experience can be measured by the extent to whichstudents fulfill their responsibilities and exercise their rights in a reasonable manner.

Though this is a unique public institution, Oak Park and River Forest High School exists in the contextoflargerentitieswhosetenetsmustapply:TheConstitutionoftheUnitedStates,theConstitutionoftheState of Illinois, the School Code of Illinois, and legal decisions of state and federal courts.

Each student has the right to: Freedomofspeechandpress,freedomofassembly,andfreedomtopetition.Theserightsare limited only by the restriction that the exercise of these rights does not present a clearand present danger to other persons nor does it materially or substantially disrupt thenormaloperationsoftheschool;

A comprehensive education commensurate with the students abilities and the Districts


37/54

Students with Disabilities have the right to: Betreatedasindividuals; Notbeexcludedfromactivitiesorprogramsstrictlybecauseofadisability; Haveaccesstoallbuildingfacilities;

Notbediscriminatedagainst.

Student Responsibilities

Diverseculturesarerepresentedinthestudentbodyandthestaff;suchdiversityisavaluableeducationalresource. Individual respect for ones own uniqueness as well as respect for the individuality and worth

of others is emphasized in all aspects of the school program.

Each student has the responsibility to: Read,understand,andabidebytheCodeofConductinschoolandduringanyschool-related

activity; Respectothersregardlessoftheirdifferences; Utilizethelearningresourcesprovided; Attendallclassesandbeontimeandbepreparedforallclasses;

WearstudentIDsatalltimesandpresenttheIDupontherequestofanystaffmember; Reflectcourtesy,decency,andasensitivitytotherightsandneedsofothers; Respondpromptlyandcourteouslytorequestsmadebyallfacultyandstaffmembers; Refrainfrompublicdisplaysofaffection; Helpkeeptheschoolandcampusclean; Maintainappropriatedress; Store all beverages and lunch containers in lockers until lunchtime. Students are only

permittedtopossessopenfoodordrinkinthedesignatedareas;

Followhisorherassignedschedule;attendallclassesandstudyhalls.Failuretodosomay result in being placed in restricted lunch and/or restricted co-curricular participation.

NOTE TO SENIORS: Senior year is a time of excitement, anticipation and preparation for the future.There are also many memorable events that occur during this year. Participation in these events isa wonderful privilege. Seniors who violate Class III or Class IV Infractions of the Code of Conduct

jeopardize attendance at Prom, participation in the Commencement Ceremony and all other end-

of-the-year activities for seniors. Senior pranks are prohibited and could result in possible policenotification.


38/54

Guidelines for Behavior in Specific Areas

Cafeteria Foodpurchasedinthecafeteriaistobeeatenthere.

Beforeleavingthecafeteria,studentsmustcleanuptheirtablesanddepositwastematerialin the containers provided.

Studentsmustusetablesandchairsappropriately.Sittingontablesorputtingfeetonchairsis not permitted.

Foodisnotpermittedinclassrooms.

Mall Containersprovidedfordisposalofpaperandwasteproductsmustbeusedtodisposeof

trash. Theuseoftobaccoinanyformbystudentsonschoolpropertyisprohibited.Students

who choose to smoke must be at least two blocks away from the school. Skateboardingonthemallisprohibited.

Field Trips Thestandardsofbehaviorandconductthatapplytostudentsinschoolalsoapplywhen

students are on field trips. InfractionsoftheCodeofConductonafieldtripwillbereportedimmediatelytotheDean.

Media Center Studentsmustconductthemselvesinamannerthatallowsotherstudentstousethe

facility. Conversationsmustbebriefandrestrictedtoschoolwork. Running,shouting,anddisturbingothersisnotpermitted.

Athletic Contests Thestandardsofbehaviorandconductthatapplytostudentsinschoolalsoapplyatathletic

contests. Possessionoruseofmechanicalnoisemakersisprohibitedatallcontests,inallsports. Signsmaynotbedisplayedbyvisitingteamsatfootballorbasketballgames.Thehome

team may only display signs that refer to OPRFHS. Throwingobjectsofanykindontotheplayingareaisprohibited.

Studentsarenotpermittedtoreenterathleticevents. RadiosandCDplayersarenotpermittedatathleticevents. StudentsmusthaveavalidschoolIDintheirpossessionatalltimes.The Illinois School Code charges that teachers and other certificated and educational employees have


39/54

Chronic DisobedienceThe repeated violation of school policies and procedures is prohibited. If a student repeatedly violatesschool policies and procedures, the student may be disciplined pursuant to the Code of Conduct whichmay lead to an out-of-school suspension for up to 10 days. The dean may also refer the matter to thePSS Team. The PSS Team may recommend expulsion for the student, which would then result in aStudent Discipline Hearing (Please refer to the Procedures for Student Discipline Hearings describedon the following pages).

Student SearchesIn accordance with state and federal law, students and their personal belongings are subject to searchwhenever school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that the search will produce evidence that the

student has violated a school rule or the law.

Other property and areas are subject to search in accordance with the Illinois School Code (10-22.6): Tomaintain order and security in the schools, school authorities may inspect and search places and areassuch as lockers, desks, parking lots, and other school property and equipment owned or controlledby the school, as well as personal effects left in those places and areas by students, without notice toor the consent of the student, and without a search warrant. As a matter of public policy, the General

Assembly finds that students have no reasonable expectation of privacy in these places and areas or in

their personal effects left in these places and areas. School authorities may request the assistance of lawenforcement officials for the purpose of conducting inspections and searches of lockers, desks, parkinglots, and other school property and equipment owned or controlled by the school for illegal drugs,weapons, or other illegal or dangerous substances or materials, including searches conducted throughthe use of specially trained dogs. If a search conducted in accordance with this Section producesevidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law, local ordinance, or the schools

policies or rules, such evidence may be seized by school authorities, and disciplinary action may betaken. School authorities may also turn over such evidence to law enforcement authorities.

UseofBreathalyzersandNon-InvasiveDrugTestsThe use of non-invasive drug tests (for marijuana) and breathalyzers (alcohol) is considered a searchundertheU.S.Constitution.Therefore,ifschoolpersonnelreasonablysuspectthatastudentisunderthe influence at school or at a school-sponsored function, they will employ the use of such teststo determine whether or not a student has used marijuana or alcohol. The use of such tests is inaccordance with the Illinois School Code referenced above.


40/54

Detentions

For certain infractions of the Code of Conduct, classroom attendance will be maintained, andconsequences will be served outside the normal school day. The detentions are one, two or three hourslong. Detention hours are from 7:10 - 7:50 a.m., during all lunch periods, and 3:10 to 5:50 p.m. Mondaythrough Friday. Students who fail to serve detentions will be placed on Social Probation and may beineligible to participate in or attend co-curricular or other after school activities. Any junior or seniorstudent who fails to serve detentions may also lose their off-campus lunch privilege.

Saturday Detentions

Saturday detention begins promptly at 8 a.m. and ends at 11 a.m. Students assigned to Saturdaydetention must bring appropriate work and/or reading material. Students who do not come prepared,arrive late, sleep, talk, or otherwise disrupt detention will be sent home and/or assigned additionalconsequences. Failure to report to detention may result in suspension from school. Students mustbring a photo ID to be admitted. Students will be required to obtain their own transportation to Saturdaydetention.

Suspensions and Expulsion

In-School Suspension (ISS): For certain infractions of the Code of Conduct, students will be assignedall or part of a day in Room 201. Credit will be given when the student successfully completes the workassigned by the teacher during the period of the in-school suspension. Students are expected to workon classroom assignments while serving their suspension.Out-of-School Suspension (OSS): This type of suspension is used in the more serious disciplinesituations. During the suspension period, the student is not permitted on school property and maynot attend or participate in school-sponsored activities. The absences that occur while a student issuspended out of school are considered excused. Each teacher will inform students of their rulesregarding make-up work and will allow suspended students to make up their work.

Suspension Procedures1. The Dean will notify the student of the charge and obtain the students version of events before a

consequence is assigned.2. Reasonable attempts will be made to inform the students parent or guardian when a decision is

made to assign an out-of-school suspension.3. In the event of an out-of-school suspension, the Dean will make every effort to contact a parent orlegal guardian before releasing the student from school. If a parent or legal guardian cannot bereached before the end of the school day or if the parent or legal guardian so requests, the schoolwill attempt, if practical, to keep the student in the building under supervision until the end of the

h l d

i l I d t i i h th t d t ill b d d d d f l i


41/54

special programs. In determining whether a student will be suspended or recommended for expulsion,the following factors will be considered:Theextentofharmdone;Circumstancessurroundingthebehavior;

Cooperationintheinvestigation; Willingnesstomakerestitution;Attitudeoftheoffendertowardtheinappropriatebehavior.Note: A student who is suspended for any Code of Conduct violation while an active member of anyschool organization will lose eligibility to participate during the suspension. The ineligibility periodcommences with the first day of suspension and continues until the last day.

Due ProcessSome Class III and Class IV infractions of the Code of Conduct can lead to a referral for a disciplinaryhearing according to the procedures in Board of Education Policy 5114 and 5114-1. This policy isdesigned to ensure that a student's due process rights are not violated, that rights of student's withspecial needs are respected, and that a safe and orderly environment is maintained. Parents will beadvised of their right to request a formal hearing if the allegations against their student could lead to thestudent's suspension or expulsion.

Appealing a SuspensionWhen a parent or legal guardian is advised of a students suspension, he or she can exercise the rightof due process by making a written request for a review of the suspension to the Assistant Principal forStudent Services. The written request must be received within three (3) calendar days after receivingnotification of the suspension and must state specific reasons for making the request. Any appealinvolving an expellable offense (10 Day OSS) will be heard during the expulsion hearing and consideredas a part of the hearing testimony.

Student Discipline HearingSome Class III and Class IV infractions of the Code of Conduct can lead to a disciplinary hearingaccording to the procedures in Board of Education Policy 5114 and 5114-1. This policy is designed toensure that a students due process rights are not violated, that rights of students with special needsare respected, and that a safe and orderly environment is maintained.

If the Administration determines that a violation of the Code of Conduct is serious enough to beconsidered for expulsion, the following procedure will occur:1. The student's PSS team (see page 7 for PSS team description) will review the case and make a

recommendation regarding the appropriate consequences. If the recommendation is expulsion,a 10-day suspension will be assigned by a Dean to that student and a parent or guardian will benotified

Social Probation


42/54

Social ProbationStudents may be placed on Social Probation for certain violations of the Code of Conduct. Studentson Social Probation are excluded from attending all athletic and co-curricular activities at OPRF and allathletic or co-curricular activities that are away from school where OPRF is a participant.

Special Education 504 and Title IX AppealsFor further details on 504 appeals, please see page 30.

Any complaints or inquiries concerning the application and the implementation of the Title IX regulationsshould be referred to the Athletic Director.

Glossary of Terms

ActiveDefianceofAuthority:Refusaltoobeyschoolrules;refusaltoobeydirect,clearandspecificdirections of a person in a position of authority.

Aggressive Physical Behavior: Any act having the potential to cause injury to another person.

Arson: Malicious, intentional attempt to burn any property.

Battery: Unlawfully causing physical injury to another; knowingly touching another with intent toinjure.

Behavioral Expectation Agreement: Students who commit a Class IV infraction of the Code of Conductare required to sign a Behavioral Expectation Agreement. The Agreement is reviewed and signed by thestudent, parents and Dean. The purpose of the Agreement is to establish guidelines and consequencesfor rule violations and to stipulate positive and proactive interventions to assist the student.

Bomb Threat: Written, verbal or physical threats falsely suggesting the presence of a bomb in thebuilding.

Bullying: Any aggressive or negative gesture or written, verbal, or physical act that places anotherstudent in reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or property, or that has the effect of insulting or

demeaning any student in such a way as to disrupt or interfere with the schools educational mission orthe education of any student.

Controlled/Illegal Substance: Possession, being under the influence, and the sale or distribution of thefollowing substances during the school day, en route to or from school, at any school sponsored eventor activity or adjacent to the school is prohibited:

Due Process: The procedure that protects the rights of individuals


43/54

Due Process: The procedure that protects the rights of individuals.

Endangering the Safety of Self and Others: Any aggressive or negative gesture, written, verbal, orphysical act that endangers or has the potential to endanger the safety of self and/or others.

Expulsion: Removal from school by the Board of Education for a period longer than ten (10) schooldays and up to two school years.

Failure to Identify Self: Lack of current school ID, refusal to present an ID upon request, failure topresent ones own ID to identify self upon request, or failure to correctly identify self.

False Alarm: Activating a fire alarm for other than the intended purpose of the alarm.

Fighting: Engaging in physical contact for the purpose of inflicting harm to another person.

Forgery: Signing another persons name to any document; falsifying records; falsification ofinformation.

Gambling: Illegal participation in games of chance for money and/or other items of value.

Gang Activity: Possessingorwearingarticlesofclothing(hatswornatanangle,pantlegswornatdifferent

lengths, etc.) jewelry, and/or possessing or displaying other materials or wearing objects thatdepict gang symbols or indicate gang involvement.

Drawing,displaying,orpromotinggangand/orlook-alikegraffiti/symbols. Flashinggangsigns. Recruitingindividuals.

Gangmembership. Engaginginanyactivityorconductthatmayindicateganginvolvement.

Gross Misconduct: See page 35.

Hazing/Initiation Rites: Any intentional or reckless act directed against a student that endangers thementalorphysicalhealthorthesafetyofastudent;orcoercing,compelling,orinstructingastudenttoperformanyactthatendangershisorhermentalorphysicalhealthorsafety;forthepurposeoforasa

condition of being initiated into, holding office in or maintaining membership in any formal or informalstudent organization/group or in any fraternity, sorority, gang, or other prohibited secret society asdefined in the School Code of Illinois.

Illegal Organizations: Clubs, organizations, fraternities, sororities, and secret societies (including gangs)

Passive Defiance of Authority: Includes but not limited to the failure to comply with an agreed upon


44/54

Passive Defiance of Authority: Includes but not limited to the failure to comply with an agreed upondirective, e.g., repeatedly failing to serve assigned detentions, repeatedly failing to properly wear onesID, or repeated failure to comply with other level one or two infractions.

Possession of Stolen Property or Theft: No person may steal personal or public property, be inpossession of stolen property, or be in possession of property the student is not authorized to have.

Restitution/Restoration: Appropriate financial reimbursement for damage to or loss of school orpersonal property. Restoration will include work or financial restitution necessary to restore or replacedamaged property.

SexualHarassment:Unwelcomesexualadvances,requestforsexualfavorsorotherunwelcomeverbal

or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

Sexual Misconduct: Engaging in sexual activity on school property and/or at school-sponsoredfunctions.

Smoking/TobaccoPossessionorUse: Possessionoruseoftobaccoonschoolpropertyinanyformis prohibited by section 10-20.5b of The School Code of Illinois. School policy prohibits possession,control, distribution, transfer or use of tobacco or tobacco products during the hours of 7:00 a.m. and

4:00 p.m. on school days, at all school-related activities and in related

Documents

2011-12 OPRF Student Handbook