Huntsville High School

Transcription

1 Huntsville High School Student Handbook Huntsville High School P.O. Box 1377 Huntsville, AR Phone: (479) Fax: (479)

2 Acknowledgment of Electronic Distribution of Student Handbook My child and I have been offered the option to receive a paper copy or to electronically access the Huntsville High School Student Handbook for the school year. We are aware that it can be accessed at under the Parents link. I understand that the handbook contains information my child and I may need during the school year. All students will be held accountable for their behavior and will be subject to the disciplinary consequences outlined in the handbook. If I have any questions regarding this handbook, I should direct those questions to the Huntsville High School Principal or Assistant Principal. Please fill out and return the bottom portion. I have chosen to: Receive a paper copy of the Student Handbook. Accept responsibility for accessing the Student Handbook by visiting Printed name of Student: Signature of Student: Grade of Student: Printed name of Parent: Signature of parent: Date:

3 Huntsville School District Calendar August 2015 December 2015 April 2016 Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa September 2015 January 2016 May 2016 Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa October 2015 February 2016 June 2016 Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa * November 2015 March 2016 Notes Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Quarter 1: 44 Days Quarter 2: 41 Days Quarter 3: 46 Days Quarter 4: 47 Days =Start of Quarter * =End of Quarter Days Required: 178 Student Days, 10 Professional Development Days, 2 Parent Conferences, 190 Contract Days Professional Development: August 5-7(May be obtained during the summer with principal approval) Required In District: August 10-14, *October 29 (1/2 day- 8:00am-12:00pm), January 18, *March 31 (1/2 day 8:00-12:00) Holidays: September 7, October 29 (Students Only), November 25-27, December 21-January 1, January 18 (Students Only), February 15, March 21-25, March 31 (Students Only) Parent Teacher Conferences: October 29 (1:00-7:00), March 31 (1:00-7:00) Inclement weather: Days will be made up on February 15 (day 1), May 24-27(days 2-5), May 31-June 6 (days 7-10) (10 Total Inclement Weather Days) The Superintendent and School Board shall have the authority to amend the calendar in the event of excessive days missed. Last Day of School: May 23

4 INDEX ABSENCES ACADEMIC CREDIT ACCIDENT ACT ADVANCED PLACEMENT ALCOHOL... 43, 96 ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE ALTERNATIVE LEARNING ANIMALS ASSAULT... 41, 95 ASSEMBLIES ASSISTANTS BATTERY BOOK BAGS BULLYING... 57, 100 BUS VIOLATIONS CHAINS CHALLENGE TO MATERIALS CHEATING CHECK OUT PROCEDURES CLASS FEES CLIMBING ON BUILDINGS CLOSED CAMPUS CLUBS COMMUNICABLE DISEASES COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS COMPUTER USE... 45, 103 CONCURRENT CREDIT CONDUCT TO AND FROM SCHOOL CONFERENCES CONFISCATED ITEMS CONTACT WITH STUDENTS COPYING DANCES DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS DEFINITIONS DETENTION DIRECTORY INFORMATION DISCIPLINE DISEASES DISRESPECT DISRUPTION... 41, 101, 103 DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR DISTRIBUTION OF LITERATURE DISTRICT WEBSITE DRESS... 43, 97 DRIVER S LICENSE DRIVING DRUGS... 43, 96 DUE PROCESS DUFFEL BAGS ELECTRONIC DEVICES... 65, 96 EMERGENCY DRILLS ENCORE ENROLLING ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS EQUAL ACCESS EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY EXEMPTION POLICY EXPULSION EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITY ELIGIBILITY FOR HOME SCHOOLED STUDENTS EXTRACURRICULAR CLASSES FEES FIGHTING FINES FIREWORKS FOOD SHARING FOR INSUBORDINATION FORGERY FOSTER CHILDREN GAMBLING GANGS... 43, 99 GENERAL INFORMATION... 1 GOLD CARD GOVERNMENT GRADE POINT AVERAGE GRADING... 67, 70 GRADUATION GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS... 1 GROOMING GUIDANCE PROGRAM GUM CHEWING HANDBOOK HANDLING OF ANIMALS HAZING... 34, 99 HIGH HONOR GRADUATES HOME ACCESS CENTER HOME SCHOOLED STUDENTS' LETTER OF INTENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITY HOME SCHOOLING HOMELESS STUDENTS HOMEROOM HOMEWORK HOMEWORK HOT LINE HONOR GRADUATES... 14, 15 HYGIENE ILLNESS IMMORALITY IMMUNIZATIONS INTERROGATIONS LANGUAGE LASER POINTERS... 45, 103 LEAVE CLASS LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER MATERIALS LITERATURE LOCKERS... 90

5 LOST AND FOUND LUNCH SUBSTITUTIONS MAKE-UP WORK MARKETING OF PERSONAL INFORMATION MAROON CARD... 75, 76 MEDIA CENTER MEDICATIONS MISSION STATEMENT... 1 NONSCHOOL LITERATURE, PUBLICATIONS, AND MATERIALS NOT FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS ORGANIZATIONS... 34, 89 PARASITES PARENT INVOLVEMENT PLAN: A SUMMARY 61 PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES PARENTAL/COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT PARKING PARTICIPATION IN GRADUATION PARTICIPATION IN SURVEYS PDA PERMANENT RECORDS PERSONAL DAYS PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS PLAGIARISM PLAGIARIZING PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PRIVACY PROHIBITED CONDUCT... 40, 94 PROMOTION PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION PUBLICATIONS RECORDS... 34, 54 REMEDIATION RENAISSANCE REPLACEMENT GRADES RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS RESOLVING PARENTAL CONCERNS RETENTION REWARDS RULES AND REGULATIONS SALUTATORIAN SCHEDULE CHANGES SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS... 1 SCHOOL CHOICE SCHOOL DAY SCHOOL PROPERTY SCHOOL TRIPS SCHOOL WEB PAGES SCREENINGS SEARCH SECTION SEIZURE SEXUAL HARASSMENT... 44, 99 SMART CORE CURRICULUM... 1 SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENT ACCELERATION STUDENT ASSAULT STUDENT ASSISTANTS STUDENT DISCIPLINE STUDENT HANDBOOK STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS STUDENT PUBLICATIONS STUDENT VISITORS STUDENTS RECORDS SUMMARY SUPPLEMENTAL INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS SURVEYS SUSPENSION TARDIES... 32, 99 TAUNT TEACHER WORK AREA TELEPHONE CALLS THEFT TOBACCO... 42, 95 TOTE BAGS TRANSFERS TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTATION CONDUCT TRANSPORTATION ELIGIBILITY TRIPS TRUANCY... 31, 98 UNIFORMED SERVICES MEMBER'S CHILDREN USE OF COPYRIGHTED MATERIALS VALEDICTORIAN VEHICLES VENDING MACHINES VIDEO SURVEILLANCE VISITORS WARNING WEAPON WEAPONS WELLNESS WHITE CARD... 75, 76 WITHDRAWING... 74

6 I. GENERAL INFORMATION SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS Regularly scheduled school board meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 570 West Main. A suggestion or complaint not presented in writing to the superintendent by noon of the Wednesday preceding the second Monday of each month may not be placed on the agenda. HUNTSVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT The Mission of the Huntsville School District is to provide a quality educational environment to prepare all students for college and career success as they contribute to a rapidly changing world. HUNTSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT Huntsville High School will produce students who are proficient in literacy and mathematics and will provide diverse and challenging educational opportunities that encourage each student to develop personal responsibility, respect for individual differences, and an inquiring mind through quality instruction and rigorous coursework. SMART CORE CURRICULUM AND GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CLASSES OF 2016 and 2017 All students are required to participate in the Smart Core curriculum unless their parents or guardians, or the students if they are 18 years of age or older, sign a Smart Core Waiver Form to not participate. While Smart Core is the default option, both a Smart Core Informed Consent Form and a Smart Core Waiver Form will be sent home with students prior to their enrolling in seventh grade, or when a 7-12 grade student enrolls in the district for the first time and there is not a signed form in the student s permanent record. Parents must sign one of the forms and return it to the school so it can be placed in the students permanent records. This policy is to be included in student handbooks for grades 6-12 and both students and parents must sign an acknowledgement they have received the policy. Those students not participating in the Smart Core curriculum will be required to fulfill the Core curriculum or the requirements of their IEP (when applicable) to be eligible for graduation. Counseling by trained personnel shall be available to students and their parents or legal guardians prior to the time they are required to sign the consent forms. While there are similarities between the two curriculums, following the Core curriculum may not qualify students for some scholarships and admission to certain colleges could be jeopardized. Students initially choosing the Core curriculum may subsequently change to the Smart Core curriculum providing they would be able to complete the required course of study by the end of their senior year. Students wishing to change their choice of curriculums must consult with their counselor to determine the feasibility of changing paths. This policy, the Smart Core curriculum, and the courses necessary for graduation shall be reviewed by staff, students, and parents at least every other year to determine if changes need to be made to better serve the needs of the district s students. The superintendent, or his/her designee, shall select the composition of the review panel. Sufficient information relating to Smart Core and the district s graduation requirements shall be communicated to parents and students to ensure their informed understanding of each. This may be accomplished through any or all of the following means: Inclusion in the student handbook of the Smart Core curriculum and graduation requirements; 1

7 Discussion of the Smart Core curriculum and graduation requirements at the school s annual public meeting, PTA meetings, or a meeting held specifically for the purpose of informing the public on this matter; Discussions held by the school s counselors with students and their parents; and/or Distribution of a newsletter(s) to parents or guardians of the district s students. Administrators, or their designees, shall train newly hired employees, required to be licensed as a condition of their employment, regarding this policy. The district s annual professional development shall include the training required by this paragraph. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS The number of units students must earn to be eligible for high school graduation is to be earned from the categories listed below. A minimum of 22 units is required for graduation for a student participating in either the Smart Core or Core curriculum. In addition to the 22 units required for graduation by the Arkansas Department of Education, Huntsville High School requires an additional 2 units to graduate for a total of 24 units. The additional required units may be taken from any electives offered by the school. There are some distinctions made between Smart Core units and Graduation units. Not all units earned toward graduation necessarily apply to Smart Core requirements. SMART CORE: Sixteen (16) units English: four (4) units 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th Oral Communications: one-half (1/2) unit Mathematics: four (4) units (all students under Smart Core must take a mathematics course in grade 11 or 12 and complete Algebra II.) 1. Algebra I or Algebra A & B* which may be taken in grades 7-8 or 8-9; 2. Geometry or Investigating Geometry or Geometry A & B* which may be taken in grades 8-9 or 9-10; *A two-year algebra equivalent or a two-year geometry equivalent may each be counted as two units of the four-unit requirement for the purpose of meeting the graduation requirement, but only serve as one unit each toward fulfilling the Smart Core requirement. 3. Algebra II; and 4. The fourth unit may be either: A math unit beyond Algebra II: this can include Pre-Calculus, Calculus, AP Statistics, Algebra III, Advanced Topic and Modeling in Mathematics, Mathematical Applications and Algorithms, Linear Systems and Statistics, or any of several IB or Advanced Placement math courses (Comparable concurrent credit college courses may be substituted where applicable); or one unit of computer science chosen from ADE Essentials of Computer Programming, ADE Computer Science and Mathematics, AP Computer Science, IB Computer Science, or other options approved by ADE. Natural Science: a total of three (3) units with lab experience chosen from One unit of Biology; and either: 2

8 Two units chosen from the following three categories (there are acceptable options listed by the ADE for each): Physical Science; Chemistry; Physics or Principles of Technology I & II or PIC Physics; or One unit from the three categories above and one unit of computer science chosen from ADE Essentials of Computer Programming, ADE Computer Science and Mathematics, AP Computer Science, IB Computer Science, or other options approved by ADE. Social Studies: three (3) units Civics one-half (½) unit World History - one unit American History - one unit Physical Education: one-half (1/2) unit Note: While one-half (1/2) unit is required for graduation, no more than one (1) unit may be applied toward fulfilling the necessary units to graduate. Health and Safety: one-half (1/2) unit Economics one half (½) unit dependent upon the licensure of the teacher teaching the course, this can count toward the required three (3) social studies credits or the six (6) required Career Focus elective credits. Fine Arts: one-half (1/2) unit CAREER FOCUS: - Six (6) units All career focus unit requirements shall be established through guidance and counseling based on the student s contemplated work aspirations. Career focus courses shall conform to the curriculum policy of the district and reflect state curriculum frameworks through course sequencing and career course concentrations where appropriate. CORE: Sixteen (16) units English: four (4) units 9, 10, 11, and 12 Oral Communications: one-half (1/2) unit Mathematics: four (4) units Algebra or its equivalent* - 1 unit Geometry or its equivalent* - 1 unit All math units must build on the base of algebra and geometry knowledge and skills. (Comparable concurrent credit college courses may be substituted where applicable) one unit of computer science chosen from ADE Essentials of Computer Programming, ADE Computer Science and Mathematics, AP Computer Science, IB Computer Science, or other options approved by ADE may be substituted for a math credit beyond Algebra I and Geometry 3

9 *A two-year algebra equivalent or a two-year geometry equivalent may each be counted as two units of the four (4) unit requirement. Science: three (3) units at least one (1) unit of biology or its equivalent; and Two units chosen from the following three categories: Physical Science; Chemistry; Physics; or One unit from the three categories above and one unit of computer science chosen from ADE Essentials of Computer Programming, ADE Computer Science and Mathematics, AP Computer Science, IB Computer Science, or other options approved by ADE. Social Studies: three (3) units Civics one-half (1/2) unit World history, one (1) unit American History, one (1) unit Physical Education: one-half (1/2) unit Note: While one-half (1/2) unit is required for graduation, no more than one (1) unit may be applied toward fulfilling the necessary units to graduate. Health and Safety: one-half (1/2) unit Economics one half (½) unit dependent upon the licensure of the teacher teaching the course, this can count toward the required three (3) social studies credits or the six (6) required Career Focus elective credits. Fine Arts: one-half (1/2) unit CAREER FOCUS: - Six (6) units All career focus unit requirements shall be established through guidance and counseling based on the student s contemplated work aspirations. Career focus courses shall conform to the curriculum policy of the district and reflect state curriculum frameworks through course sequencing and career course concentrations where appropriate. 4

10 SMART CORE CURRICULUM AND GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CLASS OF 2018 AND THEREAFTER All students are required to participate in the Smart Core curriculum unless their parents or guardians, or the students if they are 18 years of age or older, sign a Smart Core Waiver Form to not participate. While Smart Core is the default option, both a Smart Core Informed Consent Form and a Smart Core Waiver Form will be sent home with students prior to their enrolling in seventh grade, or when a 7-12 grade student enrolls in the district for the first time and there is not a signed form in the student s permanent record. Parents must sign one of the forms and return it to the school so it can be placed in the students permanent records. This policy is to be included in student handbooks for grades 6-12 and both students and parents must sign an acknowledgement they have received the policy. Those students not participating in the Smart Core curriculum will be required to fulfill the Core curriculum or the requirements of their IEP (when applicable) to be eligible for graduation. Counseling by trained personnel shall be available to students and their parents or legal guardians prior to the time they are required to sign the consent forms. While there are similarities between the two curriculums, following the Core curriculum may not qualify students for some scholarships and admission to certain colleges could be jeopardized. Students initially choosing the Core curriculum may subsequently change to the Smart Core curriculum providing they would be able to complete the required course of study by the end of their senior year. Students wishing to change their choice of curriculums must consult with their counselor to determine the feasibility of changing paths. This policy, the Smart Core curriculum, and the courses necessary for graduation shall be reviewed by staff, students, and parents at least every other year to determine if changes need to be made to better serve the needs of the district s students. The superintendent, or his/her designee, shall select the composition of the review panel. Sufficient information relating to Smart Core and the district s graduation requirements shall be communicated to parents and students to ensure their informed understanding of each. This may be accomplished through any or all of the following means:. Inclusion in the student handbook of the Smart Core curriculum and graduation requirements; Discussion of the Smart Core curriculum and graduation requirements at the school s annual public meeting, PTA meetings, or a meeting held specifically for the purpose of informing the public on this matter; Discussions held by the school s counselors with students and their parents; and/or Distribution of a newsletter(s) to parents or guardians of the district s students. Administrators, or their designees, shall train newly hired employees, required to be licensed as a condition of their employment, regarding this policy. The district s annual professional development shall include the training required by this paragraph. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS The number of units students must earn to be eligible for high school graduation is to be earned from the categories listed below. A minimum of 22 units is required for graduation for a student participating in either the Smart Core or Core curriculum. In addition to the 22 units required for graduation by the Arkansas Department of Education, Huntsville High School requires an additional 2 units to graduate for a total of 24 units. The additional required units may be taken from any electives offered by the district. There are some distinctions made between Smart Core units and Graduation units. Not all units earned toward graduation necessarily apply to Smart Core requirements. 5

11 Digital Learning Courses The District shall offer one or more digital learning course(s) through one or more District approved provider(s) as either a primary or supplementary method of instruction. The courses may be in a blended learning, online-based, or other technology-based format.in addition to the other graduation requirements contained in this policy, students are required to take at least one (1) digital learning course for credit while in high school. SMART CORE: Sixteen (16) units English: four (4) units 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th Oral Communications: one-half (1/2) unit Mathematics: four (4) units (all students under Smart Core must take a mathematics course in grade 11 or 12 and complete Algebra II.) 1. Algebra I or Algebra A & B* which may be taken in grades 7-8 or 8-9; 2. Geometry or Investigating Geometry or Geometry A & B* which may be taken in grades 8-9 or 9-10; *A two-year algebra equivalent or a two-year geometry equivalent may each be counted as two units of the four-unit requirement for the purpose of meeting the graduation requirement, but only serve as one unit each toward fulfilling the Smart Core requirement. 3. Algebra II; and 4. The fourth unit may be either: A math unit beyond Algebra II: this can include Pre-Calculus, Calculus, AP Statistics, Algebra III, Advanced Topic and Modeling in Mathematics, Mathematical Applications and Algorithms, Linear Systems and Statistics, or any of several IB or Advanced Placement math courses (Comparable concurrent credit college courses may be substituted where applicable); or one unit of computer science chosen from ADE Essentials of Computer Programming, ADE Computer Science and Mathematics, AP Computer Science, IB Computer Science, or other options approved by ADE. Natural Science: a total of three (3) units with lab experience chosen from One unit of Biology; and either: Two units chosen from the following three categories (there are acceptable options listed by the ADE for each): Physical Science; Chemistry; Physics or Principles of Technology I & II or PIC Physics; or One unit from the three categories above and one unit of computer science chosen from ADE Essentials of Computer Programming, ADE Computer Science and Mathematics, AP Computer Science, IB Computer Science, or other options approved by ADE. Social Studies: three (3) units Civics one-half (½) unit World History - one unit American History - one unit 6

12 Physical Education: one-half (1/2) unit Note: While one-half (1/2) unit is required for graduation, no more than one (1) unit may be applied toward fulfilling the necessary units to graduate. Health and Safety: one-half (1/2) unit Economics one half (½) unit dependent upon the licensure of the teacher teaching the course, this can count toward the required three (3) social studies credits or the six (6) required Career Focus elective credits. Fine Arts: one-half (1/2) unit CAREER FOCUS: - Six (6) units All career focus unit requirements shall be established through guidance and counseling based on the student s contemplated work aspirations. Career focus courses shall conform to the curriculum policy of the district and reflect state curriculum frameworks through course sequencing and career course concentrations where appropriate. CORE: Sixteen (16) units English: four (4) units 9, 10, 11, and 12 Oral Communications: one-half (1/2) unit Mathematics: four (4) units Algebra or its equivalent* - 1 unit Geometry or its equivalent* - 1 unit All math units must build on the base of algebra and geometry knowledge and skills. (Comparable concurrent credit college courses may be substituted where applicable) one unit of computer science chosen from ADE Essentials of Computer Programming, ADE Computer Science and Mathematics, AP Computer Science, IB Computer Science, or other options approved by ADE may be substituted for a math credit beyond Algebra I and Geometry *A two-year algebra equivalent or a two-year geometry equivalent may each be counted as two units of the four (4) unit requirement. Science: three (3) units at least one (1) unit of biology or its equivalent; and Two units chosen from the following three categories: Physical Science; Chemistry; Physics; or One unit from the three categories above and one unit of computer science chosen from ADE Essentials of Computer Programming, ADE Computer Science and Mathematics, AP Computer Science, IB Computer Science, or other options approved by ADE. 7

13 Social Studies: three (3) units Civics one-half (1/2) unit World history, one (1) unit American History, one (1) unit Physical Education: one-half (1/2) unit Note: While one-half (1/2) unit is required for graduation, no more than one (1) unit may be applied toward fulfilling the necessary units to graduate. Health and Safety: one-half (1/2) unit Economics one half (½) unit dependent upon the licensure of the teacher teaching the course, this can count toward the required three (3) social studies credits or the six (6) required Career Focus elective credits. Fine Arts: one-half (1/2) unit CAREER FOCUS: - Six (6) units All career focus unit requirements shall be established through guidance and counseling based on the student s contemplated work aspirations. Career focus courses shall conform to the curriculum policy of the district and reflect state curriculum frameworks through course sequencing and career course concentrations where appropriate. 8

14 SMART CORE INFORMED CONSENT FORM (GRADUATING CLASS OF 2016 AND AFTER) Name of Student: Name of Parent/Guardian: Name of District: Name of School: Smart Core is Arkansas s college- and career- ready curriculum for high school students. College and career readiness in Arkansas means that students are prepared for success in entry-level, credit-bearing courses at two-year and four-year colleges and universities, in technical postsecondary training, and in well-paid jobs that support families and have pathways to advancement. To be college and career ready, students need to be adept problem solvers and critical thinkers who can contribute and apply their knowledge in novel contexts and a variety of situations. Smart Core is the foundation for college and career-readiness. All students should supplement additional rigorous coursework within their career focus. Parents or guardians may waive the right for a student to participate in Smart Core and instead to participate in the Core curriculum. The parent must sign the separate Smart Core Waiver Form to do so. English 4 units English 9th grade English 10th grade English 11th grade English 12th grade or Transitional English 12 SMART CORE CURRICULUM Mathematics 4 units (or 3 units of math and 1 unit of Computer Science*) At least one MATH unit must be taken in Grade 11 or Grade 12. Algebra I (or Algebra A & Algebra B - Grades 7-8 or 8-9) Geometry (or Geometry A & Geometry B - Grades 8-9 or 9-10) Algebra II fourth math - Advanced Topics and Modeling in Mathematics, Algebra III, Calculus, Computer Science and Mathematics, Linear Systems and Statistics, Transitional Math Ready, Mathematical Applications and Algorithms, Pre-Calculus, or an Advanced Placement mathematics - Comparable concurrent credit college courses may be substituted where applicable. Science 3 units with lab experience (or 2 units with lab experience and 1 unit of Computer Science*) Biology 1 unit (All students must have 1 unit in Biology, IB Biology, ADE Biology, ADE Approved Biology Honors, or Concurrent Credit Biology.) Physical Science, Chemistry, or Physics 2 units Social Studies 3 units Civics - ½ unit World History - 1 unit U.S. History - 1 unit other social studies ½ unit Oral Communications ½ unit Physical Education ½ unit Health and Safety ½ unit Economics ½ unit (may be counted toward Social Studies or Career Focus) Fine Arts ½ unit Career Focus 6 units *Computer Science (optional) A flex unit of Computer Science and Mathematics, Essentials of Computer Programming, AP Computer Science, or IB Computer Science may replace the 4 th math requirement or the 3 rd science requirement. Two distinct units of the computer science courses listed above may replace the 4 th math requirement and the 3 rd science requirement. If the 4 th math requirement and the 3 rd science requirement have been met through other coursework, any of the computer science courses listed above may be used for career focus credit. 9

15 Beginning with the entering 9th grade class of school year, each high school student shall be required to take at least one digital learning course for credit to graduate. (Act 1280 of 2013) By signing this form, I acknowledge that I have been informed of the requirements and implementation of the Smart Core Curriculum and am choosing the Smart Core Curriculum for my child. Parent/Guardian Signature Date School Official Signature Date Arkansas Department of Education May 19,

16 SMART CORE WAIVER FORM (GRADUATING CLASS OF 2016 AND AFTER) Name of Student: Name of Parent/Guardian: Name of District: Name of School: Smart Core is Arkansas s college- and career- ready curriculum for high school students. College and career readiness in Arkansas means that students are prepared for success in entry-level, credit-bearing courses at two-year and four-year colleges and universities, in technical postsecondary training, and in well-paid jobs that support families and have pathways to advancement. To be college and career ready, students need to be adept problem solvers and critical thinkers who can contribute and apply their knowledge in novel contexts and a variety of situations. Smart Core is the foundation for college and career-readiness. All students should supplement additional rigorous coursework within their career focus. Failure to complete the Smart Core Curriculum for graduation may result in negative consequences such as conditional admission to college and ineligibility for some scholarship programs. Parents or guardians may waive the right for a student to participate in Smart Core and instead to participate in the Core curriculum. By signing this Smart Core Waiver Form, you are waiving your student s right to Smart Core and are placing him or her in the Core Curriculum. English 4 units English 9th grade English 10th grade English 11th grade English 12th grade or Transitional English 12 CORE CURRICULUM Mathematics 4 units (or 3 units of math and 1 unit of Computer Science*) Algebra I (or Algebra A & Algebra B - each may be counted as one unit of the 4 unit requirement) Geometry (or Geometry A & Geometry B - each may be counted as one unit of the 4 unit requirement) (All math units must build on the base of algebra and geometry knowledge and skills.) Science 3 units (or 2 units with lab experience and 1 unit of Computer Science*) Biology - 1 unit (All students must have 1 unit in Biology, IB Biology, ADE Biology, ADE Approved Biology Honors, or Concurrent Credit Biology.) Physical Science, Chemistry, or Physics at least 1 unit Other ADE approved science Social Studies 3 units Civics - ½ unit World History - 1 unit U.S. History - 1 unit other social studies ½ unit Oral Communications ½ unit Physical Education ½ unit Health and Safety ½ unit Economics ½ unit (may be counted toward Social Studies or Career Focus) Fine Arts ½ unit Career Focus 6 units *Computer Science (optional) A flex unit of Computer Science and Mathematics, Essentials of Computer Programming, AP Computer Science, or IB Computer Science may replace the 4 th math requirement or the 3 rd science requirement. Two distinct units of the computer science courses listed above may replace the 4 th math requirement and the 3 rd science requirement. If the 4 th math requirement and the 3 rd science requirement have been met through other coursework, any of the computer science courses listed above may be used for career focus credit. (Comparable concurrent credit may be substituted where applicable.) Beginning with the entering 9th grade class of school year, each high school student shall be required to take at least one digital learning course for credit to graduate. (Act 1280 of 2013) 11

17 By signing this form, I acknowledge that I have been informed of the requirements and implementation of the Smart Core Curriculum and am choosing to waive the Smart Core curriculum for my child. I understand the potential negative consequences of this action as outlined on this form. Parent/Guardian Signature Date School Official Signature Date Arkansas Department of Education May 14,

18 DIGITAL LEARNING COURSES Definitions For the purposes of this policy Blended Learning is education in which instruction and content are delivered through supervised instruction in a classroom and online delivery of instruction with some element of student control over time, place, path, or pace. Digital Learning means a digital technology or internet-based educational delivery model that does not rely exclusively on compressed interactive video (CIV). Digital learning includes online and blended learning. Highly Qualified Teacher means a teacher who holds at least a Bachelor s Degree and has demonstrated subject area competence in each of the core academic subjects in which the teacher teaches. A highly qualified teacher that delivers digital learning courses under these rules is not required to be licensed as a teacher or administrator by the State Board of Education. This definition, however, does not override the fact that Federal laws or regulations may require teachers in certain subject areas to hold a teaching license (e.g., special education teachers who teach core academic subjects). "Instructional Materials" means: 1. Traditional books, textbooks, and trade books in printed and bound form; 2. Activity-oriented programs that may include: a. Manipulatives; b. Hand-held calculators; c. Other hands-on materials; and 3. Technology-based materials that require the use of electronic equipment in order to be used in the learning process. Online Learning is education in which instruction and content are delivered primarily over the Internet. The term does not include print-based correspondence education, broadcast television or radio, videocassettes, compact disks and stand-alone educational software programs that do not have a significant Internet-based instructional component. Digital Course Offerings The District shall offer one or more digital learning course(s) through one or more District approved provider(s) as either a primary or supplementary method of instruction. The courses may be in a blended learning, online-based, or other technology-based format and shall be tailored to meet the needs of each student. All digitally offered courses shall meet or exceed the State Board of Education's curriculum standards and requirements and be capable of being assessed and measured through standardized or local assessments. Additionally, the District shall ensure there is sufficient infrastructure to handle and facilitate a quality digital learning environment. As an approved digital learning provider, the District shall annually determine what District created digital learning courses it will provide to our students. The District may also choose to provide digital learning courses by contracting with outside providers of such courses, who have been preapproved by the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE). The School Board shall determine the provider method or combination of methods for the District. The Superintendent shall ensure that all 13

19 digital learning courses provided to District students, regardless of the source of the course, have been approved by ADE. District created digital courses and any digital courses the district purchases from outside providers shall adhere to the guidelines for the use of digitally transmitted copyrighted materials set forth in USE OF COPYRIGHTED MATERIALS as well as applicable statutory requirements. The District shall require all outside providers to incorporate the policy as a condition of the service contract. Failure of the outside provider to abide by the policy shall constitute a breach of contract and the outside provider shall be responsible for any costs resulting from such breach. Students may take 1 digital learning course. Students must be physically present for each digital learning class he/she takes. The District is responsible for providing all instructional materials for each student who enrolls in a District approved digital learning course. Regardless of any other provisions of this policy, the District may restrict a student's access to digital courses when the student's school principal determines the student s participation in such a course would not be academically appropriate based on the student's past performance in digital courses. Furthermore, the student's school principal may revoke a student's eligibility to continue taking a digital learning course if the student's performance during the semester indicates the student is not succeeding in the course. HIGH HONOR GRADUATES (Classes of 2016, 2017, 2018) Students who wish to graduate with high honors or who wish to be class valedictorian or salutatorian must have successfully completed the minimum core of courses recommended for preparation for college as defined by the State Board of Higher Education and the State Board of Education. They must also have completed at least eleven (11) honors or advanced placement courses with a minimum of one honors course in the areas of math, science, and social studies, and two honors courses in the English area. The high honors graduate must also have two (2) courses of the same foreign language and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 derived from courses taken for high school credit. HONOR GRADUATES (Classes of 2016, 2017, 2018) Students who have successfully completed the minimum core of courses recommended for preparation for college as defined by the State Board of Higher Education and the State Board of Education and have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher will be designated as honor graduates. The GPA shall be derived from courses taken for high school credit. HIGH HONOR GRADUATES (Beginning with Class of 2019) Students who wish to graduate with high honors or who wish to be class valedictorian or salutatorian must have successfully completed the minimum core of courses recommended for preparation for college as defined by the State Board of Higher Education and the State Board of Education. They must also have completed at least eleven (11) honors or advanced placement courses with a minimum of two AP course in the areas of either math, science, or social studies, and two AP courses in the English area. The high honors graduate must also have two (2) courses of the same foreign language and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 derived from courses taken for high school credit. The high honors graduate must complete the Smart Core curriculum. 14

20 HONOR GRADUATES (Beginning with Class of 2019) Students who have successfully completed the minimum core of courses recommended for preparation for college as defined by the State Board of Higher Education and the State Board of Education and have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.25 or higher will be designated as honor graduates. They must have completed at least six (6) honors or advanced placement courses with a minimum of one AP courses in the areas of either math, science, or social studies, and one AP course in the English area. The honors graduate must also have one (1) course in foreign language. The honors graduate must complete the Smart Core curriculum. VALEDICTORIAN AND SALUTATORIAN The high honor student/s with a GPA of higher than 4.0 and who have been enrolled in Huntsville High School for his/her entire senior year shall serve as the valedictorian of his/her graduating class. The high honor student/s with the highest GPA of 4.0 or under and who has been enrolled in Huntsville High School for his/her entire senior year shall serve as the salutatorian of his/her graduating class. If qualifications are not met for valedictorian, the high honor graduate with the highest GPA will become valedictorian and the next highest GPA will be salutatorian. CONCURRENT CREDIT A ninth through twelfth grade student who successfully completes a college course(s) from an institution approved by the Arkansas Department of Education shall be given credit toward high school grades and graduation at the rate of one high school credit for each three (3) semester hours of college credit. Unless approved by the school s principal, prior to enrolling for the course, the concurrent credit shall be applied toward the student s graduation requirements as an elective. A student who takes a three-semester hour remedial/developmental education course, as permitted by the ADE Rules Governing Concurrent College and High School Credit, shall be the equivalent of one-half unit of credit for a high school career focus elective. The remedial/developmental education course cannot be used to meet the core subject area/unit requirements in English and mathematics. Participation in the concurrent high school and college credit program must be documented by a written agreement between: The District's student, and his or her parent(s) or guardian(s) if the public school student is under the age of eighteen (18); The District; and The publicly supported community college, technical college, four-year college or university, or private institution the student attends to take the concurrent credit course. Students are responsible for having the transcript for the concurrent credit course(s) they ve taken sent to their school in order to receive credit for the course(s). Credit for concurrent credit courses will not be given until a transcript is received. Transcripts for students who take concurrent credit courses as partial fulfillment of the required full day of class for students in grades 9-12 (see Policy 4.44) are to be received by the school within 10 school days of the end of the semester in which the course is taken. Students may not receive credit for the course(s) they took or the credit may be delayed if the transcripts are not received in time, or at all. This may jeopardize students eligibility for extracurricular activities, graduation, or graduation ceremonies. 15

21 Students will retain credit earned through the concurrent credit program which was applied toward a course required for high school graduation from a previously attended, accredited, public school. Any and all costs of higher education courses taken for concurrent credit are the student s responsibility. PARTICIPATION IN GRADUATION No student may participate in graduation exercises until all graduation requirements have been met. All outstanding fines and dues must be paid in order to participate in graduation including textbooks and library books. Graduation is a school-sponsored event. The student will be required to dress and act appropriately to participate in graduation exercises. Graduation practice is mandatory for all graduates unless approved by the principal. GRADE POINT AVERAGE Both a semester and cumulative grade point will be calculated. The valedictorian(s) and salutatorian(s) will be determined on the basis of an eight semester cumulative grade point average (CGPA). STUDENT PROMOTION AND RETENTION A disservice is done to students through social promotion and is prohibited by state law. The District shall, at a minimum, evaluate each student annually in an effort to help each student who is not performing at grade level. Parents or guardians shall be kept informed concerning the progress of their student(s). Notice of a student s possible retention or required retaking of a course shall be included with the student s grades sent home to each parent/guardian or the student if 18 or older. Parent-teacher conferences are encouraged and may be held as necessary in an effort to improve a student s academic success. Any grades, course credits, and/or promotions received by a student while enrolled in the Division of Youth Services system of education shall be considered transferable in the same manner as those grades, course credits, and promotions from other accredited Arkansas public educational entities. Promotion or retention of students, or their required retaking of a course shall be primarily based on the following criteria. Promotion or retention of students in grades K-8 shall be primarily based on the following criteria: academic performance, developmental characteristics, and the student s suitability for success if retained. Students in grades 9-12 will be required to retake any course necessary to meet graduation requirements if the final grade in a course is below 60%. Grade Level Promotion Criteria for High School: Sophomore 5 credits, Junior 10 credits, Senior 15 credits. If there is doubt concerning the promotion or retention of a student or his/her required retaking of a course, a conference shall be held before a final decision is made that includes the following individuals.: a) The building principal or designee; b) The student s teacher(s); c) School counselor d) A 504/special education representative (if applicable); and e) The student s parents. 16

22 The conference shall be held at a time and place that best accommodates those participating in the conference. The school shall document participation or non-participation in required conferences. If the conference attendees fail to agree concerning the student s placement or receipt of course credit, the final decision shall rest with the principal or the principal s designee. Regardless of the student having earned passing grades, a student who falls under one of the following categories shall be considered for retention or shall not receive credit for the course associated with the applicable assessment. The student: does not take the State mandated assessment for the student s grade level or course within the time frame specified by the State; takes the State mandated assessment but does not put forth a good faith effort on the assessment as determined by the assessment administrator/proctor. The Superintendent or designee may wave this provision when the student s failure was due to exceptional or extraordinary circumstances. Students who do not score proficient or above on their grade level State assessments shall be required to participate in an Academic Improvement Plan (AIP). Each AIP shall be developed by school personnel and the student s parents and shall be designed to assist the student in attaining the expected achievement level. The AIP shall also state the parent s role as well as the consequences for the student s failure to participate in the plan, which shall include the student s retention in their present grade. All students must successfully pass all end-of-course (EOC) assessments they are required to take unless exempted by the student s individualized education program (IEP). To receive academic credit on his/her transcript in a course requiring a student to take a EOC assessment, the student must either receive a passing score on the initial assessment or successfully participate in the remediation program identified in his/her individualized Academic Improvement Plan (AIP), which shall focus on the areas in which the student failed to meet the necessary passing score. Additionally, the lack of credit could jeopardize the student's grade promotion or classification. To the extent required by the State Board of Education, students in grade eleven (11) and below who do not meet the required score on a college and career readiness measurement shall participate in the remediation activities prescribed in his/her IAIP which may include additional opportunities to retake the measurement. Such remediation shall not require the student to pass a subsequent college and career readiness measurement in order to graduate from high school. Promotion/retention or graduation of students with an IEP shall be based on their successful attainment of the goals set forth in their IEP. In addition to the possibility of retention or withholding of course credit, students who either refuse to sit for a State assessment or attempt to boycott a State assessment by failing to put forth a good faith effort on the assessment as determined by the assessment administrator/proctor, or whose parents do not send their student to school on the dates the assessments are originally administered or scheduled as make-up days shall not be permitted to participate in any non-curriculum related extracurricular activity, including school dances, prom, homecoming, senior events, and may be prevented from walking or participating in graduation exercises. The student shall remain ineligible to participate until the student takes the same or a following State mandated assessment, as applicable, or completes the required remediation for the assessment the student failed to put forth a good faith effort on. The Superintendent or designee may wave this paragraph's provisions when the 17