Socorro Family School

A Pilot Program, Fall 2012

Table of Contents:

Administration 3 School Calendar 4 Mission Statement 5 Family School Goals 5 General Information 7 Self Medication 8 Insurance 9 Academics 9 Student Services 11 Transportation 12 Parking lot 12 Fire drills 12 Co-curricular Activities 13 Titles VI & IX 14 Field trips & Activities 15 Rights & Responsibilities 15 School Pride 16 Fines & Fees 16 Open Campus 16 Confiscation of items 16 Attendance Plan 17 Signing in/out 18 Make up work 18 Student code of conduct 19 Technology use policy 21 Anti-bullying policy 26

__________________________

Secondary Teacher

__________________________ Elementary Teacher

Mr. Randall Earwood Superintendent of Socorro Consolidated Schools

Socorro Family School 239 Garfield Street

Socorro, New Mexico 87801 575.835.______

This hand book belongs to:

Socorro Consolidated School District

School Calendar here

Mission Statement:

Socorro Family School is an alternative K-12 program offered by the Socorro Consolidated Schools (SCS). Students attend a public school program that combines a half time of classroom instruction with a half time of home-based instruction. This arrangement helps parents play an active role in the education of their children. Students are able to develop their own knowledge by participating in problem-solving lessons and community activities.

Socorro Family School’s multi-age, open-ended curriculum will help students take responsibility for their learning process. The student curriculum is a rigorous, hands-on, integrated, self- directed approach to cooperative learning.

Family School Goals

Expectations of Parents Parents at the Socorro Family School are to agree with the philosophy of Family School as a partnership between the families and the school to educate your child(ren) and also…

1. Provide transportation 2. The home school parent responsible for the majority of the teaching is required to attend 2

meetings each month with the teacher. 3. Provide 14 hours of home school instruction per week and document it through a log to be

turned in to the teacher on a regular basis. In the younger grades the log is maintained by the parents, but in the older grades the expectation is for the student to maintain the log.

4. Volunteer by helping in the classroom, going to classroom to watch presentations by students & going to training sessions given at the school.

Family School Goals

It is important when looking into Family School that as a family you are clear about your goals. Define why you want to be here, make sure that the family (as a whole unit) is agreed on the desired outcome. Although we all share common goals, each family is unique and individual – and within the workings of Family School each family will have different experiences based on those variations. In the setting of family goals it is significant to have the child(ren) involved in the discussing, setting, revisiting, changing and achieving of those goals. The parent/child relationship is fundamental to success at Family School as the impact of this method of learning is challenging and demanding on the entire family.

Community

Family School is just that – a family school. We are unique in that our families create a family in and of itself. The community is an inexhaustible wealth of information, support and encouragement. Utilize the assets available to you to make your experience as rewarding as possible for your family. Ask, Your teacher is there to work WITH you – keep open communications so that your child benefits fully from the process. Discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly so that as a “family” you can help your child succeed.

Stay aware of learning experiences. It’s not always the “perfect” experience that creates the greatest learning experience – it’s how we take what we’ve experienced and process the information to understand life on a deeper level. You are surrounded by learning opportunities all day long, at work, School Attendance

The Federal No Child Left Behind Act requires that states, school districts and schools be held accountable for ensuring that all students meet high academic standards. On time, daily attendance is a critical component of this educational process. New Mexico law dictates that:

• Students between the ages of five (5) and eighteen (18) years of age are mandated to attend public school, private school, home school or at state institution.

Math Family School Math consists of following units of study:

• Addition 1 • Addition 2 • Subtraction • Multiplication • Division • Fractions 1 • Fractions 2 • Decimals/Percentages • Geometry • Algebra •

1. At each level, manipulatives are used within the math unit as the student begins learning the specific concepts. As the student gains experience with the concept, the manipulative are used less and less until they are no longer required.

2. Mastery is assessed with a unit test on which the student must achieve a minimum of 85% accuracy.

3. Classroom math groups are made up of students who are working on the same skills rather than organized by grade level.

4. Math groups meet twice each week with the teacher for evaluating homework, instruction, and making new assignments.

Reading Students at Family School are assessed, for reading group placement, as in Math, during the first 40 days of the new school year. The teacher meets with each student and assesses their abilities in areas of vocabulary and comprehension. Based upon this assessment, the students within each group work on reading assignment by retelling what they have read within a Reading Journal. Reading Journals follow the following progression: Reading Journal Goals Overview:

• Reading Comprehension and the ability to extract information and details from the text. • Analyze • Taking Clear notes Organizing thoughts, main ideas and supporting details. • Copies of the Literary Insight with exemplars are available in the office.

After initial assessments, students are grouped with children of comparable abilities for the school year regardless of their current grade. Within each group, the students, with help from the teacher pick appropriate reading materials.

Workshop

Workshop is drawn from science and social studies standards based upon the range of grade levels with a classroom. The teacher chooses a theme for the year (space, tree, poverty) and works within theme to present APS Standards within the theme.

Reading Journal

The reading journals are a series of structured writing experiences designed to guide students through a critical reading process while at the same time teaching writing techniques. The journals ultimately build the skills necessary for writing a thesis. The students are divided into leveled reading groups where they meet and discuss portions of a chosen book. Through reading, discussion, lessons, writing assignments, and feedback on the writing, students move from reading for pleasure to the ability to take pleasure in a deeper understanding of written works. They arrive at a deeper understanding of the text by exploring and writing about the manner in which the book is crafted (writing techniques such as dialogue, brushstrokes, foreshadowing) as well as the lens of the time, place, and societal values within which the book was written. The reading journals progress as follows: retelling; personal commenting; writing technique

General Information:

ENROLLMENT ELIGIBILITY

A student must live in the Socorro School District to be eligible to register at Socorro Family School (SFS) and must have been homeschooled. Legal documentation must be established. All students under the age of 18 must have a legal guardian residing in the Socorro School District on file at SFS, and those over 18 must show proof of residence. A student will not be enrolled without SFS having school records/transcripts from the student’s previous school and written proof from NM PED of previous certification of establishment of a home school. Students expelled from or on long-term suspension from other schools will not be enrolled at SFS. Out of district students must petition for special permission to attend Socorro Family School.

STUDENT NAME

Many students wish to be called by their nicknames, abbreviated names or second names. This is fine for most purposes; however, we ask that you use your official name on all official correspondence, school records, registration, and grade-related records.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

It is important that the school have an accurate record of background information available at all times. This includes parent/guardian names, place of employment, business and home phone numbers and mailing address. Should any of this information change during the school year, please notify the office immediately. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the office of any changes.

REQUIREMENT ALLOWING STUDENTS TO CARRY AND SELF- ADMINISTER CERTAIN

MEDICATION

Socorro Consolidated Schools shall allow students to carry and self-administer asthma medication and emergency anaphylaxis medication that has been legally prescribed to the student by a licensed health care provider under the following conditions: 1. health care provider has instructed the student in the correct and responsible use of the medication, 2. student has demonstrated to the health care provider and the school nurse or other school official the skill level necessary to use the medication and any device that is necessary to administer the medication as prescribed, 3. health care provider formulates a written treatment plan for managing asthma or anaphylaxis episodes of the student and for medication use by the student during school hours or school-sponsored activities, including transit to or from school or school-sponsored activities, 4. student’s parent has completed and submitted to the school any written documentation required by the school /school district, including the treatment plan required in paragraph 3 and other documents related to liability. The school district, its employees or agents may confiscate a student’s medication if the student’s self-administration of the medication exceeds the student’s prescribed dosage or if the student endangers others with his/her medication. The parent of the student who is allowed to carry and self-administer asthma medication and emergency anaphylaxis medication may provide the school with back up medication that shall be kept in a location to which the student has immediate access in the event of an asthma or anaphylaxis emergency.

NM DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENTS IN NEW MEXICO

SCHOOLS……………………..updated July 16,, 2008

1. Four DTaP or DT injections with the last one occurring at or after age 4. Tdap is required at age 11-12 years of age.

2. Four IPV(Polio) doses are required for school entry with the last dose occurring after age 4.

3. MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine is required after their first birthday, with a second dose required at age four.

4. A series of three Hepatitis B. *********Students may not be enrolled without proof of immunization, unless they provide a written religious objection********

INSURANCE THE SCHOOL DOES NOT CARRY INSURANCE ON ANY STUDENT!

A student participating in athletics must provide his/her own coverage. Students will be provided with an opportunity to purchase athletic insurance at the beginning of the school year. If an athlete is covered under his parent’s policy, he does not need to purchase additional insurance.

The student on a voluntary basis may purchase an insurance plan. Information will be distributed concerning this program early in the school year.

ACADEMICS REQUIREMENTS OF GRADUATION

1. Maintain an acceptable attendance and conduct record. 2. Complete at least one semester of school in residence at SHS. 3. A candidate will not be permitted to participate in the commencement program unless all

requirements for graduation have been completed prior to the commencement program. 4. Be cleared of all debts and “time owed”. 5. Student may choose to walk in Socorro High School commencement.

SPECIFIC GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Twelfth grade students must submit a minimum of 25 credits appropriately selected as illustrated below*. A minimum of 16 units must be based on credits in academic subjects (Band, Chorus, PE, and Drivers Education are not academic subjects). SBA Requirement

Graduation requirements for the class of 2013 One of the above units must be honors, Advanced Placement, dual credit, or distance learning. To graduate, a student must meet the cut score for high school graduation assessment on 11th grade SBA or use a portfolio alternate demonstration of competency.

English 4 Units

Math 3 Units

(of which 1 unit shall be equivalent to or higher than the level of Geometry)

Social Science 3.5 Units

Science 3 Units (2 shall be laboratory science)

PE 1 Unit

Career Cluster 1 Unit

Electives 8.5 Units

Total 25 Units

Note: If a medical doctor licensed to practice medicine in New Mexico certified that a student should not take PE for medical reasons, the student will not be required to take PE at any time during the student’s high school years, the student may then substitute equivalent credit in another subject.

GRADE CLASSIFICATION

Students are classified according to their year in school and number of credits earned. The classification of students is done at the beginning of the school year, not during the school year. Those students who have not earned at least 10 credits will remain as Juniors until they have earned appropriate credit.

In order to be a: You must have earned:

Freshman ( 9th) You will start the year with 0 credits

Sophomore (10th) You will start the year with at least 6 credits

Junior (ll th) You will start the year with at least 12 credits

Senior (12th) You will start the year with at least 18credits

FIFTH YEAR STUDENTS

All 5th year students and above will be limited to:

a). Any discipline referral to the office resulting in suspension will be considered grounds for long term suspension until the end of the semester or longer.

b). Fifth year students are not eligible to participate in extra circular activities or athletics.

GRADING PROCEDURES

Report cards are distributed at the end of each quarter. They are given directly to the student unless they are being held back because of debts. It is the student’s responsibility to show the report cards to his/her parents.

At the middle of each quarter, deficiency reports or failing notices will be sent to the parents of those students who are failing, or in danger of failing, at the time. This will help make the parents aware of their child’s progress. Absence of a deficiency report does not guarantee that a student will pass the course.

The grading system used at SFS is as follows:

A 90-100

B 80-89

C 70-79

D 60-69

F 59 and below

Beginning with the Freshmen, Class of 2012-13 only AP Classes and Dual Credit Core Courses will be valued on a 5.0 GPA scale: all other courses will be valued on a 4.0 GPA scale. Students receiving a failing grade in an AP, Honors, or CP course will be transferred to a regular course.

CHEATING

Cheating is considered a serious offense at SFS. Cheating is defined as using someone else’s work as your own, or knowingly permitting someone else to use your work. Any student caught cheating will receive a zero for that assignment or exam and a second offense will result in loss of credit for the class.

STUDENT SERVICES GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING

Counselors are available for consultation involving help or information on school scheduling, curriculum, vocation and post-high school planning, and other personal or school matters. They provide information on credits required to graduate and career and job information. Students need to review with their counselors, subjects required for college entrance, tests to take for vocational schools and representatives, scholarship and financial aide for post-high school, and programs available through the Dual Credit program.

STUDENT RECORDS

The school maintains a complete record of all student school activities that are completed during Family School school days. Reports from teachers, tests, attendance records, grades, discipline and other personal data are filed in the student’s folder.

TRANSCRIPTS

During the student’s senior year, he/she may decide to apply for admission to a college or a job. At this time, it is the student’s responsibility to request that a preliminary transcript (includes 7 Semesters) be sent. After he/she has been accepted and has decided which college, university of job he/she plans to accept, that student must request a final transcript. This will include the 8 semester grades, graduation date, rank and grade point average. Transcripts are not sent automatically. The student or parent must request them.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks are the property of the State of New Mexico and are on loan to the district. The student is responsible for the texts checked out to him/her and will be held accountable for any damage or theft of these books while they are checked out to the student.

When a student withdraws or transfers from SHS, all books must be turned in. Loss of a book will be assessed at the replacement cost of that book.

LUNCH

With prior approval, student may leave for lunch with a parent or guardian.

TRANSPORTATION

Parents will be responsible to get their students to school on time.

PARKING LOTS Students who drive to school must obey the following rules and regulations. Failure to do so will result in parking fines or suspension of parking and driving privileges on campus. Students are to park their cars immediately upon arriving at school and leave the parking area. Students are not to be in their cars or the parking lot at any time during the day unless permission has been given by the teacher. FIRE DRILLS

Fire drills are held periodically during the school year in accordance with state law. It is important that everyone cooperates during fire drills, obey directions and clear the building by prescribed routes as quickly as possible. After departing from the building, students should gather in a group with their teacher and remain there until a signal bell indicates that you may return. Fire drills are held at the least expected times and often cause some confusion. Regardless of where you are and what you are doing, you are expected to respond immediately to the fire drill and follow teacher instructions. Setting off a false alarm is a civil offense. Any student caught doing so faces immediate suspension and will be reported to the proper authorities. Students need to know that setting off a false alarm is punishable by a fine of $300, ninety days in jail, or both. EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSURE Watch KOAT Channel 7 news. It is recommended that families have a plan for such emergency closures. In bad weather, a special schedule will be used. CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITES Every student at SFS is provided an opportunity to participate in co-curricular activities ranging from art and drama to athletics. Co-curricular activities are school sponsored activities which are not required by law or educational standards for New Mexico schools which require time either during or outside of the regular school day for practice meetings, events, performances or interscholastic competition. In order to represent SFS at public, school-sponsored functions, students must abide by the following eligibility requirements:

1. Be in school the day of the activity unless prior approval has been granted by the administration.

2. Maintain a 2.0 GPA (most recent grading or cumulative at semester end). 3. Each club advisor or coach may implement more rigid requirements. 4. All policies, regulations & eligibility set forth by the NMAA will be followed.

CLUB/ORGANIZATIONS AND ATHLETICS

Yearbook Newspaper Band Student Council MESA Chorus French Club FFA Spanish Club Varsity Club Chinese Club Travel Club German Exchange National Honor Society Soccer (Boys & Girls) Varsity Football Varsity, JV, C Volleyball Varsity, JV, C Basketball (Boys & Girls) Varsity, JV, C Baseball Varsity, JV Track (Boys & Girls) Varsity, JV Golf (Boys & Girls) Varsity, JV Cheerleading Varsity Dance Softball Varsity, JV Cross Country Swim

Titles VI and IX:

No employee or student of the School District shall on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity of the School District.

The School District is committed to the philosophy of equal opportunity/equal access in all its employments, educational programs, activities and services. All students shall have the opportunity to participate in and receive benefits from all programs or activities including, but not limited to, course offerings, graduation requirements, athletics, and counseling, and employment assistance, extra-curricular and other school-related activities. Discrimination in education or employment because of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, age, physical or mental handicap, martial or parental status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, or veteran status is prohibited

The School District is committed to a positive and productive working and learning environment free of discrimination. Discrimination adversely affects morale and interferes with employee and student ability to word and learn. The School District prohibits sexual harassment of its employees or students, whether committed by a co-worker, supervisor, subordinate, contractor, volunteer or student. Such behavior may constitute a basis for disciplinary action up to and including discharge or expulsion. Whereas sexual harassment substantially compromises the attainment of educational excellence, the School District will not tolerate such behavior between members of the same or opposite sex.

The School District also prohibits retaliation against:

(1) Any employee or student for having made a report of alleged sexual harassment, and

(2) Against any employee or student who has testified, assisted or participated in the investigation of a report.

Retaliation is itself a violation of State and Federal regulations prohibiting discrimination and may constitute a basis for disciplinary action up to and including discharge or expulsion.

This policy applies to individuals attending any events on the property of the School District, whether or not school-sponsored and to any school-sponsored events regardless of location. Any complaints of sexual harassment in violation of this policy should be reported within 20 calendar days of occurrence.

A copy of the School District's Sexual Harassment Policy may be obtained at the building principal’s office. Nothing in this policy applying to Title IX is intended to alter the School District's Sexual Harassment policies.

All written complaints alleging violations of Title VI or Title IX should be delivered to Randall Earwood, Superintendent of SCS. He will investigate these grievances or complaints and must provide an opportunity for a hearing with an opportunity to present evidence. Final appeals for all unresolved matters may be taken to the Board of Education. Mr. Earwood can be reached at Socorro Consolidated Schools, 700 Franklin, Socorro, NM 87801. FIELD TRIPS AND ACTIVITY TRIPS Any students going on SFS trips must go and return on the school bus. Deviation from this must be approved by SFS administration 24 hours in advance of departure. Any Student traveling with SFS must present an official SFS parental permission slip. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PUBLIC, SCHOOLS, AND STUDENTS The State of New Mexico has promulgated numerous laws and regulations regarding education in the state; specifically, an entire manual has been devoted to student and school responsibilities and rights: New Mexico Regulations 6 NMAC 1.4.

SFS rules and regulations have been developed in accordance with prevailing laws of the state and the Student Handbook is a reflection of these efforts. While it would be impossible and impractical to list these statutes in total, copies are available in Central Office for closer examination.

STUDENT AND SCHOOL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Statement of Policy A primary responsibility of the Socorro Consolidated Schools and its professional staff shall be to instill in students an appreciation of our representative form of government, the rights and responsibilities of the individual, and the legal processes whereby necessary changes are brought about. The school is a community and the rules and regulation of a school are the laws of that community. All persons enjoying the rights of citizenship are subject to the laws of their community. Each right carries with it a corresponding obligation. The right to attend public school is not absolute. It is conditional on each student’s acceptance of the obligation to abide by the lawful rules of the school community until and unless the rules are changed through established processes. Teachers, administrators, and other school employees also have rights and duties. Teachers are required by law to maintain a suitable environment for learning in their classes and to assist in maintaining school order and discipline. Administrators are responsible for maintaining and facilitating the educational program by ensuring an orderly, safe environment in the public schools. In discharging their duties, all school employees have the right to be free from intimidation or abuse and to have their lawful requests and instructions followed by students. The School District has both the authority and responsibility to ensure that suitable rules of student conduct and appropriate disciplinary processes are established. Nothing in this regulation shall be held to affect the due process rights of employees or their use of any local School District complaint procedure. This regulation does not address employment disputes.

SOCORRO FAMILY SCHOOL PRIDE SFS belongs to you and all members of the community. What you do here reflects upon how you care about yourself and your fellow students. Pride in yourself and your school is shown in many ways. Some of these are:

1. Keeping grounds, halls and classrooms clean and free of litter. 2. Maintaining appropriate conduct and behaving in a respectful manner. 3. Becoming involved in school activities and pulling your own weight.

4. Taking care of your books and other school items. 5. Treating others, including guests to the school, with courtesy and

respect. 6. No screaming, running, throwing things, or generally goofing off in school. Remember, school is a place of business, not a circus. 7. Practice the 6 pillars of character; Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring & Citizenship

FINES AND FEES

Students will be held responsible for all debt incurred by them. These include library fines, textbook replacements and/or repair costs, cafeteria fees, etc. These obligations should be cleared before the end of the school year. Report cards will not be issued to those students owing fines.

A student should meet all financial obligations for the preceding year before picking up his/her class schedule. Schedules will be withheld until fines are paid. Students owing money to other schools should clear all debts with that school before registering at SFS. OPEN CAMPUS AND VISITORS SFS is an Open Campus. Law officers will be granted permission to speak with students upon presentation of credentials. Law officers will not be allowed to remove students from campus without a court order or parental permission, unless an arrest is being made. Students who leave school without proper permission will be unexcused regardless of the reason, and parents will be notified immediately.

The campus is closed to those people who have no school related business on campus. All visitors must report to a Family School teacher if they have any business on campus. CONFISCATION OF ITEMS Throughout the school year, a number of items are prohibited. These range from drugs and alcohol. Teacher and other school employees are empowered to confiscate these items and turn them over to administration. Failure to respond to such a directive will be considered open defiance.

When faced with this situation, the student should give the item to the teacher without a fuss. The matter can then be handled properly. Unless confiscated items are illegal (alcohol, tobacco of any form, drug etc.), they will be returned to the student, or if appropriate, the parent at the discretion of the teacher.

SFS ATTENDANCE PLAN The Board of Education, school, staff and community believe that a regular attendance is a vital contributor to success in school. Students who have good attendance generally make better grades, are more involved in activities, and enjoy school more. We further believe that punctuality and regular attendance are qualities that must be instilled in students in order for them to become responsible and productive citizens. It is important, therefore, that students make attendance a top priority. All attendance policies set forth within the Socorro Consolidated School’s Secondary Discipline Management Plan. All students are expected to follow the policies set forth in that plan. The following policy shall be in effect at Socorro Family School in accordance with the State of New Mexico Compulsory School Attendance Law, SBE Regulations No. 6NMA1.4 and New Mexico State Senate/Bill 106 22-12-7. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES 1. To attend school for all days of the adopted school calendar.

2. To be in class on time, prepared for academic work. 3. To contact teachers immediately upon return from absences to receive make-up assignments and deadlines for completing them. 4. To follow the established school procedure when enrolling in or withdrawing from a class. 5. To have correct phone numbers and addresses on file with the school.

PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES

1. To ensure that the student is attending school. 2. To maintain communication with his or her son or daughter regarding attendance. 3. To contact the school (using appropriate procedure) regarding absences and, in case of extended home confinement, request make- up assignments. 4. To know when to expect a mid-term progress report and report cards. 5. To contact the school in the event of address change, phone number change and emergency contact change. 6. To request a conference with the appropriate administrator if

student’s attendance/progress is not satisfactory. 7. To understand that the school is dependent upon parental support in dealing with attendance concerns.

SCHOOL RESPONSIBILITIES

1. To emphasize the value of regular attendance. 2. To provide counseling and support for students with attendance problems. 3. To inform parents, students and staff of district attendance regulations. 4. To supervise and administer the attendance policy and regulations.

5. To make appropriate contact with students and parents concerning attendance problems. 6. To take attendance daily and maintain accurate attendance records according to district policy. 7. To provide make-up assignments and deadlines for completing them.

8. To utilize instructional methodology which stimulates and motivates students to attend and achieve.

PROCEDURES In addition to the policies set forth within the Socorro Consolidated School’s Secondary Discipline Management Plan the following procedures will be followed: 1. After ten (10) absences, per class period, verification by proper authority other than parents/guardians, must be provided to school administrators or their designee for absence to be considered for exemption from “NO CREDIT STATUS”. This excludes school-sanctioned or school sponsored activities. 2. Parents, of students who could be receiving no credit will be notified of absence status at least four times during the semester

3. Any student acquiring a “NO CREDIT STATUS” MAY be removeded from that class. a. Student will apply with the Appeal Committee to drop or defend “No CREDIT STATUS” (Packet may be picked up from the A.P. office)

4. Excessive absences may be referred to the appropriate agency of jurisdiction and/or community resources. TARDIES Students have the responsibility to be in class on time. This means being in their assigned seats and ready to work when the tardy bell rings. Being late for class causes a number of problems for students and staff: 1. Disruption of classroom activity. 2. Missing important instruction or assignments. 3. Development of poor vocational habits SIGNING IN/OUT TO LEAVE EARLY Once a student arrives on campus, a parent/guardian must PERSONALLY sign him/her out with student’s teacher or with a signed parental note before he/she can leave campus during the regular school day. Emergency checkouts must be approved by the teacher. Students arriving at school after classes have begun must sign in with the teacher. 18-year-olds: Students who have reached their 18th birthday may check themselves out ONLY after their parent/guardian has presented a notarized request for this privilege. The principal or designee will review the request and approve or deny it. When the privilege is granted, students must follow ALL guidelines for documenting absences. MAKE-UP WORK Students are responsible for requesting make-up work from their teachers; this must be done within 24 hours of returning to school from this absence. If this procedure is not followed, credit for make-up work may be withheld.

Students on long-term illness status may request make-up work through the teacher. The maximum days allowed to complete make-up work will be equal to the number of days absent.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT Personal Electronics Use: The use of personal electronics including, but not limited to, cell phones, pagers, walkmans, cd players, or any variation of an iPod etc. will only be allowed before school, at lunch, and after school. At no other times during the day will the use of these personal electronics be allowed unless the use of these electronic devices pertain directly to class work and if so, will be advised by the teacher at the time in which these electronic devices will be permitted. If the student does not follow this code of conduct for all listed electronic devices, the consequences will be as follows: 1st offense: Electronic device will be confiscated by the teacher & the parent will be notified, and at the end of the school day, the student will be allowed to pick up their cell phone. 2nd offense: Electronic device will be confiscated by the teacher & the parent will be notified, only the parent will be permitted to pick up the item. 3rd offense: Electronic device will be confiscated by the teacher & the parent will be notified, only the parent will be permitted to pick up the item after 5 school days. ¨ Dress Code: The student and parent should determine the student’s personal dress and grooming

standards, provided that the student’s dress and grooming;

a. Are not inappropriate, indecent or suggestive.

1. Shoes must be worn at all times. Slippers (chopos) will not be allowed. 2. No overly revealing or skin-tight clothing will be allowed, including blouses which

expose the midriff, backless or strapless blouses or shirts, fishnet or see-through shirts or blouses, improperly buttoned clothing, loose-fitting tank tops which are not snug around the arms, tank tops with straps less than 2 inches wide, any tank jersey must not be worn without a t-shirt underneath, sleeveless undershirts, shorts, cut-offs and miniskirts more than 4 inches above the knee and any other outfits considered inappropriate by the administration.

3. Sunglasses may be worn outside the building only. 4. Indecent/inappropriate patches, writings, or drawings on clothing or body are

prohibited. Clothing with inappropriate language or pictures will not be allowed. This includes clothing, which advertises tobacco, drugs or alcohol or clothing that depicts violent or overly sexual images, actions or messages. Torn clothing will not be allowed.

5. No head covering of any kind will be worn or carried in the school building. 6. Any clothing or colors determined to be gang related by administration will not be

allowed on school grounds. This includes spiked jewelry, chains, tight-fitting pants (e.g., tights, bicycle pants, Spandex), belts with more than two inches excess, sagging (the wearing of pants below the waist and/or in a manner that allows underwear or bare skin to show), bagging (the wearing of excessively baggy pants with low hanging crotches), pants that are more than 5 inches too big in the waist, excessively oversized shirts (shirts longer than the fingertips must be tucked in), and any other items determined to be gang related. For example: Old English lettering, eight ball sign, smile now, cry later.

7. No hairnets. 8. No leather man tools. 9. No long trench coats or long dusters.

b. Do not lead school officials to believe that such dress or grooming could disrupt, interfere

with, disturb or detract from school activities. c. Do not create a health or other hazard to the student’s safety or the safety of others.

Dress Code Violations If the principal or assistant principal determines that a student’s grooming or clothing violates the dress code, the student shall be given an opportunity to correct the problem at school if the occurrence is the first offense during the school year. If not corrected, or if the violation is a second offense within the school year, the student shall be assigned to PIBA, suspension, or be subject to other appropriate discipline consequences as determined by the principal, for the remainder of the day or until the problem is corrected. Repeated dress code offenses may result in more serious disciplinary action, and may constitute a Level 2 or Level 3 offense. Appropriate discipline procedures shall be followed in all cases. Body Jewelry and Tattoos: Socorro High School believes that adoption and enforcement of a strict policy on student appearance and dress can be a factor in improving student attitudes towards school and that positive change in attitude can lead to improvements in school attendance, drop-out rates, and academic performance and avoid student conflict and confrontation. The schools further discourage wearing of certain items of dress or jewelry for the following reasons: i. To create an atmosphere conducive to learning and to minimize disruptions attributable to personal appearance, conduct, grooming, hygiene and attire. ii. To foster an attitude of respect for authority and to prepare students to enter the work place, where rules regarding dress, conduct and appearance are frequently encountered. iii. To insure that the conduct and grooming of students who represent the district in school-sponsored, extracurricular and community activities create a favorable impression of the district and the community. iv. To counter disruptive effect and potential for interference with the educational mission

of the school district, which may result when aspects of student appearance or articles of dress represent gang affiliation.

In consideration of the above concerns, and, as a result of the safety, health and hygiene concerns created by body piercing and obtaining of tattoos and the adverse and sometimes violent reactions which body piercing and tattoos may cause within the school community, it is the policy of the Socorro High School to discourage students from engaging in body piercing or obtaining tattoos. In furtherance of this policy, the schools hereby:

Students shall not attend school-sponsored activities with any visible tattoos that are or disruptive as discussed in the reasons listed above inappropriate language or pictures will not be allowed on school premises or school sponsored activities.

Enforcement of this policy shall be in accordance with the student conduct code.

TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY FOR SCHOOL EMPLOYEES

PURPOSE The purpose of this policy is to provide procedures, rules, guidelines and codes of conduct for the use of the technology and information networks at Socorro Consolidated School District. Use of such technology is a necessary element of the School District educational mission but is furnished to staff and students as a privilege, not a right. The School District seeks to protect legitimate users of technology by establishing limits on such use and sanctions for those who abuse the privilege. Eliminating computer abuse provides more computing resources for users with legitimate needs.

SUMMARY Public technologies such as desktop computers, servers, electronic mail, Internet access, voice systems and any other form of electronic communication are provided as a service by the Socorro

Consolidated School District, (hereinafter referred to as “SCS”), to teachers, staff, and administrators (hereinafter referred to as employee) at their respective locations. Use is a privilege, not a right. Employees should be good technology citizens; they must refrain from activities that annoy others, disrupt the educational experiences of their peers, or can be considered as illegal, immoral and/or unprofessional conduct. The employee is ultimately responsible for his/her actions in accessing the above listed services. Failure to comply with the regulations (either stated below and/or in the SCS Board Policy Manual), may result in the loss of access privileges and/or appropriate disciplinary action. Severe violations may result in civil or criminal action under the New Mexico Revised Statutes or Federal Law.

OWNERSHIP All hardware, software, voice-mail, electronic mail, and any other stored documents or data on a retrievable medium including, but not limited to floppy disks, hard-drives, CD-ROMs, zip drives, etc. that are resident on district equipment, are, and shall remain, the property of SCS. The SCS administration reserves the right to confiscate, remove, search or otherwise investigate any of the above mentioned items at its discretion.

COMPUTER USE

Inappropriate use of any computer or computer workstation can be a severe offense. Please note that it is a violation of SCS policy to: 1. Duplicate copyrighted software provided by SCS. It is a criminal offense to copy ANY software that is protected by copyright, unless such copying is expressly provided for within the copyright agreement, and SCS will treat it as such. 2. Use licensed software in a manner inconsistent with the licensing agreement. Information on licenses is available through the Technology Department (hereinafter referred to as “TD”). 3. Copy, rename, alter, examine, install or delete the files or programs of another person or SCS except in the case of TD personnel or their agents who are troubleshooting or otherwise repairing a computer. 4. Use a computer to annoy others, including, but not limited to, sending offensive messages or intentionally causing a computer system or network to crash. 5. Use a computer for non-school-related activities, including but not limited to personal or private business with the limited exception of checking personal email during breaks (including lunch) or non-instructional time. However, use of personal email during working hours must meet the same standards as established throughout this document. 6. Create, disseminate, or run a self-replication program (virus, worm, or any other program that inhibits operation of a computer or network, (whether destructive or not), distributing large quantities of information that overwhelm the network including but not limited to chain letters, network games, mass copying of files for no specific reason, etc. 7. Fail to consult with TD before proceeding with any technology purchases, downloads or installations. It is a violation to use software or hardware on district equipment that has not been expressly approved by SCS through TD. Employees are not permitted to download executable software off of the Internet, install software updates to existing licensed programs resident on SCS computers, or install ANY other technology (including hardware and software). All purchases and downloads (including those with an official SCS purchase order) must be reviewed and approved by TD,. For all technology-related purchases, a copy of the license agreement must be forwarded to TD and the building administrator for tracking and audit purposes. Only TD may authorize the installation of technology purchases and, in most cases, only TD personnel are permitted to install such technology purchases. 8. Install personally purchased software or peripherals (such as printers and scanners) on SCS computers. The Director of Technology may approve installation of personally-purchased software if approved by a building administrator AND it is determined to be compatible with SCS systems by TD. If permission is attained, then a copy of the license agreement and the installation media must be housed with the administrator of that building for audit purposes. 9. To access the SCS network and programs with personal computers unless such programs are made available by TD (such as the web-based email server or the web-based version of JMAC). Personal computers may not be tied into the SCS network, either through wireless connections or LAN connections EXCEPT with the express permission of the Superintendent or the TD, and with security devices installed by TD. Further, the use of that computer will be subject to the policies and procedures outlines in this document. 10. The use of portable storage devices (such as CD-RW, DVD-RW, flash drives and iPods) and other devices (such as a Blackberry or other PDA’s) on district software by employees is permissible provided

that such devices are used in a professional manner and do not violate any rules, policies or procedures delineated in this document (including copyright laws). 11. Take or scan pictures of students without signed permission of the parents and permission from the building administrator. Additionally, no pictures of District property are to be taken without administrator approval. 12. To post any political, commercial, pornographic or otherwise questionable material to the District web site or any SCS hosted web site. Additionally, any postings must meet general District policy and be approved by TD, the Superintendent or an approved delegate. 13. Access or attempt to access a desktop, network, or host computer without having obtained the appropriate access log-in ID and password legitimately, and/or through use of log-in information belonging to another person. This is considered “hacking” and/or “trespass” and will be dealt with appropriately. 14. Share, distribute or otherwise provide a personal log-in and password with another individual other than TD. Employees sharing passwords with others, especially students, will be subject to disciplinary action. 15. Tamper with switch settings or hardware (including keyboards, monitors and mouse devices), or to move, reconfigure, and/or do anything that could damage SCS property (including but not limited to hardware such as terminals, computers, printers, and other peripherals. Any individual responsible for causing damage in any manner to any SCS property (including but not limited to hardware, software, computer systems, or computer labs) will be FINANCIALLY responsible for all repairs and/or replacements. This includes, but is not limited to unplugging cables, plugging cables into inappropriate locations, or other related activities that may cause the network or connection to the network to fail or to function improperly.

INTERNET USE The Internet is an electronic network connecting millions of computers and individual subscribers worldwide. The purpose of the Internet is to support world-wide access to business and educational information by individuals, and the sharing of content created by a variety of users. The use of an assigned SCS account must be in the application and support of educational technology, and must be consistent with the educational objectives of SCS and the standards that have been established. 1. Internet access may be provided to employees for research activities relating to their duties. Employees may also have access to:

A. Electronic mail B. Surf the World Wide Web C. Various discussion groups which include chat rooms D. Bulletin Boards E. Streaming Audio and Video content F. Web-based educational applications G. SCS Sites (web pages, blogs, training, etc.)

2. Network Etiquette You are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include but are not limited to the following:

A. Be polite. Do not be abusive in your messages to others. B. B. Use appropriate language. Do not swear, use vulgarities or any other inappropriate or suggestive language. Illegal activities are strictly forbidden. C. Do not reveal your personal address or phone number or that of other employees or students, except in your normal course of duties. D. Note that SCS-provided e-mail accounts are not guaranteed to be private. People who operate the system have access to all mail. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities will be reported to the appropriate authorities. E. Do not disrupt the use of the network by other users.

3. Inappropriate use of an account. The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use will result in cancellation of privileges. The following are examples of inappropriate use.

A. The use of (or an attempt to use) another person’s log-in and/or password. B. Copying, transferring, or duplicating software owned by or registered to SCS. C. Transmission of, or downloading any material in violation of any national, state, or district regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted documents, material that is threatening, and/or obscene/pornographic material. D. Using the network for commercial, political, personal, or private gain. E. Communication whose sole intent is not for the purpose of education or school-related research/activities.

CONSEQUENCES FOR INAPPROPRIATE USE The system administrators will deem what is inappropriate use and may close an account at any time. The administration may request the system administrator to deny, revoke, or suspend specific employee accounts. If an employee has failed to comply with this policy, he/she may be:

A. Removed from the system for a specific period of time or permanently, depending on the nature of the offense. B. Required to pay for damages with regard to technician time, computer resources, or other fees. C. Criminally charged under local, state, or federal laws. D. Subject to employee disciplinary action, up to and including termination or discharge in accordance with existing Board policies and applicable law.

SOCORRO CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT Technology Acceptable Use Contract for SCS Employees

As an employee of the Socorro Consolidated School District, hereinafter referred to as “SCS”,

I, ______________________________, recognize and understand that the district’s email systems are to be used for conducting the district business only. I understand that use of this equipment for private purposes is strictly prohibited. Further, I agree not to access a file or retrieve any stored communication or data other than where authorized unless there has been prior clearance by an authorized SCS representative. I am aware SCS reserves the right to review, audit, intercept, access, and disclose all matters on the district’s e-mail systems and serves at any time, with or without employee notice or consent, and that such access may occur during or after working hours. I am aware that use of an SCS provided password or code does not restrict the district’s right to access electronic communications. I am aware that violations of this policy may subject me to disciplinary action, up to and including termination or discharge from employment. I acknowledge that I have read and that I understand the SCS Technology Acceptable Use Policy regarding e-mail, computer hardware usage, computer software usage, and Internet access. I acknowledge that I have read and that I understand this notice and that a copy of the entire policy has been provided to me. Refusing to sign does not negate my responsibility to abide by the policies and procedures as set forth above and in the policy as revised. Choosing not to adhere to the policies set forth above is cause for suspension of all computer and Internet privileges. _________________________________ _____________________ Signature Date

o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o

o SOCORRO CONSOLIDATED SCHOOLS ANTI-BULLYING POLICY o

o When students are afraid to attend school/classes they cannot learn. Bullying prevention programs can help to provide a safe environment in which teachers can teach and students can learn. When a student is bullied his or her ability to participate in and benefit from the school’s educational programs or activities is adversely affected. The goal of this policy is to ensure that procedures are in place to prevent bullying, limit the prevalence of bullying and to make consequences salient to everyone involved.

o o Socorro Consolidated Schools believes that providing and educational environment for all

students, employees, volunteers, and families, free from harassment, intimidation, or bullying supports a total learning experience that promotes personal growth, healthy interpersonal relationships, wellness, and freedom from discrimination and abuse. Therefore, harassment, intimidation or bullying are forms of dangerous and disrespectful behavior that will not be tolerated.

o 6.12.7.7 NMAC states that “Bullying” means any repeated and pervasive written, verbal or

electronic expression, physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, that is intended to cause distress upon one or more students in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at school activities or sanctioned events. Bullying includes, but is not limited to, hazing, harassment, intimidation or menacing acts of a student which may, but need not be based on the student’s race, color, sex, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, age or sexual orientation. In addition, 6.12.7.8 NMAC requires that each local school board and charter school develop a written anti-bullying policy.

o o There are multiple forms of bullying, direct- in which there is physical violence or name-

calling, and indirect- exclusion from an activity, rumor spreading, or cyber-bullying, are the most common versions. Bullies are more likely to:

o o Socorro Family School believes it is important for a school to create a climate where bullies

and bullying behavior are not tolerated.

o Notice of prohibition against bullying and anti-bullying interventions o o 1. The prohibition against bullying, which includes but is not limited to cyber bullying,

harassment, sexual harassment, disability harassment, racial harassment, and hazing, shall be publicized by including the following statement in the student handbook(s):

o o Bullying behavior by any student in the Socorro Consolidated Schools is strictly

prohibited and such conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion from school. The above definitions will also be included.

o o Staff will be reminded at the beginning of each school year about the anti-bullying

policy, as well as their responsibilities regarding bullying behavior. A copy of the policy will be disseminated annually.

o o DEFINITIONS o 1. Cyber bullying means the willful and repeated harm inflicted through the medium of

electronic text: willful means that the behavior has to be intentional; repeated means the bullying reflects a pattern of behavior; harm means the target must perceive that harm was inflicted and electronic text differentiates cyber bullying from traditional bullying.

o 2. Harassment means knowingly pursuing a pattern of conduct that is intended to annoy, alarm or terrorize another person.

o 3. Disability harassment is defined as intimidation or abusive behavior toward a student based on disability that creates a hostile environment by interfering with or denying a student’s participation in or receipt of benefits, services, or opportunities in the district.

o 4. Racial harassment consists of physical or verbal conduct relating to an individual’s race. o 5. Sexual harassment means any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or

other inappropriate verbal, written or physical conduct of a sexual nature. o 6. Hazing means committing an act against a student or coercing a student into committing

an act that creates a risk of harm to a person in order for that student to be initiated into or affiliated with a student organization or for any other purpose.

o o Reporting Intimidation, Harassment, or bullying behavior o Any student who believes he/she has been the victim of bullying by anyone or any person or

with knowledge of bullying should immediately report the alleged act. o o The report may be made to any staff who member who will assist the student in reporting to

district personnel. o o Teachers and other staff who witness acts of bullying or receive reports from students of

bullying are required to promptly notify designated. o o Reports should be done in writing using the Harassment, intimidation, bullying or hazing

complaint form. o o The parents of victims of bullying should be notified, but confidentiality must be retained. o o Falsely charging someone of bullying will be regarded as a serious offense and may result in

disciplinary action or other appropriate sanctions. o o Investigating Intimidation, Harassment, or bullying o o The school teacher or designee will appropriately and promptly investigate all reports of

harassment, intimidation, bullying or hazing. Every effort will be made to inform the parents of the abused and the accused. The investigation will consist of personal interviews, video tapes, etc., and will be completed as quickly as possible. A written report shall be made to the Superintendent.

o o Consequences for Bullying o

o Verified acts of bullying shall result in intervention by the Superintendent and his/her designee that is intended to ensure that the prohibition against bulling behavior is enforced.

o Note: The complete SOCORRO CONSOLIDATED SCHOOLS ANTI-BULLYING POLICY can be found at

http://www.socorro.k12.nm.us/ under SCHOOL BOARD section VII. Students 7.12

STUDENT CONCERNS, COMPLAINTS, AND GRIEVANCES COMPLAINT FORM

(To be filed with the school administrator or the administrator's supervisor,

or with a professional staff member who will forward it to the school administrator or the administrator's supervisor)

Additional pages may be attached if more space is needed.

Please print:

Name ________________________________________ Date______________

Address_________________________________________________________

Telephone _____________ another # where you can be reached___________

During the hours of________________________________________________

E-mail address____________________________________________________

I wish to complain against:

Name of person, school (department), program, or activity ________________

________________________________________________________________

Address__________________________________________________________

Specify your complaint by stating the problem as you see it. Describe the incident, the participants, the background to the incident, and any attempts you have made to solve the problem. Be sure to note relevant dates, times, and places. ________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

Date of the action against which you are complaining ____________________ If there is anyone who could provide more information regarding this, please list name(s), address(es), and telephone number(s). Name Address Telephone # Number ________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

The projected solution Indicate what you think can and should be done to solve the problem. Be as specific as possible. ________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

I certify that this information is correct to the best of my knowledge. ___________________________________________ _______________________ Signature of Complainant Date Signed

___________________________________________ _______________________ Administrator or professional staff member receiving initial complaint Date initial complaint received The investigating administrator shall give one (1) copy to the complainant and retain one (1) copy for the file.

STUDENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

Rights and responsibilities are part of the life of every school. This student handbook describes very clearly what we expect from our students and staff. For all of us who are part of the Socorro High School community, there are certain guidelines that we must follow in our daily activities on this campus. Ideally, we would like all students to be involved in the life of this school, participating in a wide variety of programs and activities, and we expect all faculty members to contribute to the well being of our students. We have worked very hard to create a school in which all students can grow to their full potential, academically and personally, and you are encouraged to participate actively in the many programs and events that are sponsored by this school. However, we also know that it is necessary to set limits for students and to establish clear guidelines for student’s behavior and well-defined consequences for violations of these standards. These rules and standards outlined in this handbook have been developed to protect the rights of everyone, to insure that all students and staff are treated with respect, and to assure that our school operates in a safe and orderly manner. It is understood that it is impossible to have regulations for every possible circumstance. Administrators and activity leaders will use discretionary judgment in dealing with individual situations not covered by a specific written regulation. Please read this document carefully and note particularly the changes in policy from the past school year. Your signature at the bottom of this page acknowledges that you have read the Discipline Code of Socorro High School, understand your responsibilities as a student, and agree to follow all the guidelines listed within this handbook. Student Name (please print)____________________________________________________ Student ID Number___________________________________________________________ Date of Receipt______________________________________________________________ Student Signature____________________________________________________________ Parent Signature_____________________________________________________________