Applications of the Student Rules of Conduct

These conduct codes apply to all students on school premises, to all phases of school operations, including but not limited to curricular and extracurricular activities, while being transported on a school bus or authorized transportation and at any school-sponsored activity and to any other circumstance such that the conduct in question has an effect of disrupting school operations or otherwise depriving any student of educational interests or opportunities. Furthermore, students may be disciplined for misconduct that occurs off of property owned or controlled by the district or school but that is connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on property owned or controlled by that district or school and for misconduct regardless of where it occurs that is directed at a district or school official or employee, or the property of such official or employee.

A violation of any rule may result in disciplinary action including assigned work; promotion and retention or credit penalties; detention; loss of privileges; written notice to or conference with parents; compensatory payment of damages; Friday night school; in-school detention; out-of-school suspension; in-school parent monitoring program; expulsion; emergency removal; or referral to Madison County Children’s Services and/or juvenile court.

A student shall NOT, in any way, aid or abet another student in violating the rules of conduct. Students behaving in this manner will be disciplined according to the consequences given for the rule being violated.

In addition, this Code of Conduct includes:

Misconduct by a student that occurs off school district property but is connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on school district property; and
Misconduct by a student that, regardless of where it occurs, is directed at a district official or employee or property of an official or employee.

Student Discipline Board Policy JG

Rights and Responsibilities- Students attend West Jefferson Middle/High School under the direction of state law and with the full benefits of constitutional protection for their rights as citizens. They can act, speak or behave as young citizens within a larger scope of options. This code, published in conformity with Section 3313.661 of the Ohio Revised Code, specifies the school’s expectations. Students have a right to reasonable behavior from other students. Freedom carries with it responsibilities for all concerned. Board Policy JF
Conduct Code- A violation of any of the following may result in disciplinary action, detention, suspension, expulsion, removal from class, removal from extracurricular activities, removal from the premises, or any other action that may be deemed appropriate by the administration.
Student Conduct (Zero Tolerance) - Students are expected to conduct themselves in such a way that they respect and consider the rights of others, and are also expected to make a positive contribution to the overall school atmosphere. In addition, they are responsible for making a concerted effort to be successful in all school-related endeavors. Students of the district must conform to school regulations and accept safe and reasonable directions from authorized school personnel. The Board has “zero tolerance” of violent, disruptive or inappropriate behavior by its students. Board Policy JFC
Gang and Gang Activity- Jefferson Local School District recognizes a school must create a safe environment in which learning can take place. The presence of gangs and gang activity in the school disrupts the environment by threatening the safety of the students and staff in the school building and interfering with school and school activities. As a result of this belief, the Jefferson Local School district hereby prohibits all gangs and gang related activities from the school building and school property at all times. A gang is defined as two or more persons engaged in negative activity, behavior, dress or display which, when evaluated collectively, could denote a group which threatens the safe and orderly school environment. A gang includes any group whose purpose and practices include the commission of illegal acts, written graffiti, or any actions that interfere with safety or welfare of others or disrupts the rights of students to learn. Board Policy JFCEA

All penalties are intended as guidelines in administering firm but fair punishment for unacceptable behavior. The principal/dean of students are expected to exercise discretion in situations involving extenuating circumstances. Board Policy JGF

Rules of Discipline

To assure safety of students in school and to assure the orderly operation of the school program, the following acts can constitute just reason for suspension and possible expulsion from West Jefferson Middle/High School:

RULE 1 - Disobedient/Disruptive Behavior

A student shall not, by use of force, violence, extortion, coercion or threat, cause disruption or obstruction to the carrying out of the normal school day. Some examples of disruption, while not intended to comprise an exclusive list, illustrates the types of offenses which are considered unacceptable:

Occupying the school building, school grounds or impeding free traffic to and from school with the intent to deprive others of proper use.
Setting fire to or damaging any part of the school building or property.
Continuously and intentionally acting in any manner which interferes with the teacher’s ability to conduct class.
Engaging in conduct which would reasonably be certain to cause disruption of school functions. (examples: strikes, walkouts, sit-downs, unusual dress, sexual assaults, acts or gestures, and sportsman-like behavior and/or unacceptable behavior at games and assemblies).

RULE 2 – False Alarms/Bomb Threat

A student shall not set false alarms (verbal, written or electronic) of any nature.

RULE 3 – Vandalism/Damage of School or Private Property

A student shall not cause, or attempt to cause damage to school property, including trees, landscaping, fences, lockers, athletic facilities, buildings, desks, lighting fixtures, heating and air conditioning fixtures, chairs, tables, doors, windows, plumbing fixtures, instructional materials, etc. A student shall not cause or attempt to cause damage to, private property on school premises, during the school day, during a school activity, or during a school function or event off school grounds. This would include, but not limited to, an act of arson, burglary, explosives that may be used to cause damage to property or at school-sponsored events. Restitution must be made if damage is caused by a student.

Restitution/Reimbursement
Restitution/Reimbursement will be required when a student is involved in any action which causes damage to public property or personal property of other students or employees. This reimbursement is necessary also in the case of theft. In the normal act of providing compensation as a result of unacceptable behavior, an apology to the offended party is recommended. In addition, any state or federal offense committed while on school premises and/or during events and functions under the school supervision/jurisdiction may be prosecuted through the courts.

RULE 4 – Violence/Assault/Fighting

Assault - A student shall not cause physical injury or behave in such a way which could threaten or cause physical injury to school staff, other students or visitors, while under the jurisdiction of the school. This would include unlawful interference with school authorities and/or unlawful intimidation of school authorities. This could include, but not limited to, verbal or written physical threats directed toward students, school personnel, school property and personal property.

Fighting - An individual whose deliberate behavior directly leads to a fight between other parties shall be considered a participant. If it can be clearly established that a student in a fight was merely defending himself/herself, he/she will receive a lesser or no penalty depending on the circumstances.

RULE 5 – Use, Possession, Distribution of Firearm

A student shall not possess, handle, transmit or conceal any object which might be considered as a dangerous weapon or instrument of violence. A firearm is any weapon which will, is designed to, or may readily be converted to expect a projectile by the action of an explosive. This includes zip guns, starter guns, and flare guns.

RULE 6 – Firearm Look-A-Likes

Students shall not possess, handle, transmit or conceal any object that resembles a firearm but does not have the explosive characteristics of a firearm but may use a spring loaded device or air pressure by which to propel an object or substance (toy guns, cap guns, bb guns, pellet guns, etc.)

RULE 7 – Use, Possession, Sale or Distribution of Dangerous Weapon Other Than a Firearm or Explosive, Incendiary or Poison Gas

Students shall not use, possess, sell or distribute any dangerous weapons including firearms, explosives, incendiary or poison gas. Board Policy JFCJ

Firing, displaying or threatening use of explosives (including fireworks, smoke, and stink bombs, etc.) on school premises for any unauthorized or unlawful purpose
A weapon, device, instrument, material or substance, animate or inanimate, that is used for, or is readily capable of causing death or serious bodily injury.
This will include clubs, knives, brass knuckles, etc.

RULE 8 – Use, Possession, Sale or Distribution of Any Explosive, Incendiary or Poison Gas

Students shall not possess, sell or distribute any explosive, incendiary or poison gas. Any destructive device, which includes a bomb, grenade, rocket, poisonous gas, etc.

RULE 9 – Use, Possession, Sale or Distribution Intoxicating Alcoholic Beverages

A student shall not possess, use, transmit, conceal or be under the influence of any alcoholic beverage. Board Policy JFCH/JFCI

RULE 10 – Use, Possession, Sale or Distribution of Drugs Other Than Alcohol or Tobacco

Students shall not use, possess, transmit, conceal, sell or distribute dangerous drug(s), marijuana, narcotic paraphernalia, or mind-altering substance(s). It is also now a criminal offense to make, possess, sell or offer to sell, or deliver counterfeit (look-alike) drugs or controlled substances. Use, possession, sale, or distribution of any controlled drug other than prescription medication that has been administered in accordance with the district’s policies is against school policy. Board Policy JFCG

RULE 11 - Possession, Sale or Distribution of Tobacco/Vape products.

No student shall be permitted to use, possess, or sell any type of tobacco, in any form (snuff, pipes, juuling, vape, chewing tobacco, cigarettes, e-cigarettes and/or cigars) in any school building or on any school property, including extracurricular events, home or away. Possession of lighters and tobacco pouches (fake tobacco) will be considered a violation of this policy and such items will be confiscated. For clarity, possession of, or holding of, any form of tobacco, is the same thing as using tobacco. Lookouts for tobacco users are considered in violation and may also be suspended. Board Policy JFCG

RULE 12 - Insubordination

A student shall not fail to comply with the directions of a teacher, student teacher aide, substitute teacher, principal, secretary, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, or other authorized school personnel. Repeated violations of any minor rule, directive or disciplinary action shall constitute insubordination. This includes refusal to accept discipline and refusal to do class work and to identify yourself. In addition, students may be subject to school discipline for any harassment, coercion, vandalism, physical abuse, or other disruptive behavior towards school personnel. Any failure to act as a reasonable person under the circumstances involved is insubordination.

RULE 13 - Profanity and/or Obscene Language

A student shall not use profanity or obscene language, either written or verbal, in communicating with anyone. Included in this are obscene gestures, signs, pictures and/or publications. Any obscene materials brought to school will be confiscated and destroyed.

RULE 14 - Truancy

A student’s absence from school without authorization and parental consent is considered truancy. Excuses from school must meet conditions set down by the State Board of Education, as outlined in the attendance policy. Being absent from class without permission is considered truancy. Any student failing to attend class as required and not reporting to his/her teacher or failing to report to the office when assigned will be marked as absent. Appropriate punishment will be administered.

It is not permissible for a teacher to “pull” a student from another teacher’s class for their class.
An excused tardy/absence from class does not excuse a pupil from the work missed.
Make-up work must be completed within a reasonable time.

RULE 15 - Theft, Larceny and Robbery

A student shall not take or attempt to take into possession, any public property or equipment belonging to the school district or the personal property of another. Reimbursement will be required as restitution when a student is involved in the case of theft, larceny and robbery.

RULE 16 - Frightening, Degrading and Disgraceful Acts

A student shall not engage in any action which frightens, degrades, disgraces, or tends to frighten, degrade or disgrace anyone, by written or verbal means, or through malicious mischief.

RULE 17 - Transportation

Bus-ALL students are expected to abide by the rules of conduct established for the use of bus transportation. These rules apply to regularly scheduled bus runs, and all extracurricular activities and field trips, including athletic transportation. All regular school rules are in effect, plus any special rules such as, all parts of the body (head, arms, etc.) must be kept inside the bus windows and that nothing shall ever be thrown out of a bus window. The rear door of the bus is never to be used as an exit, except in emergencies. Students shall follow any additional rules set forth by the bus driver.

RULE 18 - Minor Misconduct

Continuous violation of minor classroom or school rules will lead to a possible suspension. Minor offenses include dress code, hazing, running, shouting, pushing, being out of your seat, boisterous behavior, PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION (PDA’S), OBVIOUS DISPLAY OF AFFECTION BEYOND HOLDING HANDS, and the addressing of a staff member by other than Ms., Miss, Mrs., Mr., Coach and Sir.

RULE 19 - Uncooperative Adults, Parents, Guardians, and/or Trespassers on School Property

Interference by any person with the lawful execution of school responsibilities in school matters, shall be grounds for criminal action. Any of these problems will result in disciplinary action from the administration.

RULE 20 - Dishonesty, Plagiarizing, Copying Homework or Cheating.

Any student found cheating on a test/exam will result in an “F” on the assignment or test. Repeat violations will result in an “F” for the 9-week grading period. Blatant cases of dishonesty, (lying, cheating, plagiarizing, extortion, bribery, forgery and theft) will not be tolerated. Staff has been instructed to report all such cases. These negative actions may result in:

1. Failing grade(s).
2. Parental notification.
3. Possible counseling and/or psychological assistance/recommendations.
4. Suspension.
5. Criminal actions when warranted in most serious cases.

RULE 21 - Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying and Dating Violence

The prohibition against hazing, dating violence, harassment, intimidation or bullying is publicized in student handbooks and in the publications that set the standard of conduct for schools and students in the district. In addition, information regarding the policy is incorporated into employee handbooks and training materials.

School Personnel Responsibilities and Complaint Procedures:

Hazing, bullying, behavior and/or dating violence by any student/school personnel in the district is strictly prohibited (Board Policy JFCF, JFCF-R). Such conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion from school. Hazing, bullying and/or dating violence means an intentional written, verbal, graphic or physical acts, including electronically transmitted acts, either overt or covert by a student or group of students toward other student’s/school personnel with the intent to haze, harass, intimidate, injure, threaten, ridicule or humiliate. Such behaviors are prohibited on or immediately adjacent to school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, in any district publication through the use of any district owned or operated communication tools. Including but not limited to district e-mail accounts and/or computers, on school-provided transportation or at any official school bus stop. Hazing, bullying and/or dating violence can include many different behaviors. Examples of conduct that could constitute prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:

1. Physical violence and/or attacks.
2. Threats, taunts, and intimidation through words and/or gestures.
3. Extortion, damage or stealing of money and/or possessions.
4. Exclusion from the peer group or spreading rumors.
5. Repetitive and hostile behavior with the intent to harm others through the use of information and communication technologies and other web-based/online sites (also known as bullying) such as the following:

a. Posting slurs on websites, social networking sites, blogs or personal online journals.
b. Sending abusive or threatening emails, website postings or comments and instant messages.
c. Using camera phones to take embarrassing photographs or videos of students and/or distributing or posting the photos or videos online.
d. Using websites, social networking sites, blogs or personal online journals, e-mails or instant messages to circulate gossip and rumors to other students.

6. Excluding others from an online group by falsely reporting them for inappropriate language to internet service providers.

In evaluating whether conduct constitutes hazing or bullying, special attention is paid to the words chosen or the actions taken, whether such conduct occurred in front of others or was communicated to others, how the perpetrator interacted with the victim and the motivation, either admitted or appropriately inferred

RULE 22 - Unwelcome Sexual Conduct

Unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors, other physical or verbal conduct or communication of a sexual nature, including gender-based harassment that creates and intimidating, hostile, or offensive education environment (pinching, grabbing, suggestive comments, gestures or jokes or pressure to engage in sexual activity) will not be tolerated.

RULE 23 - Serious Bodily Injury

No student shall create an incident that results in serious bodily injury to oneself or others. This includes risk of death, extreme physical pain, disfigurement, loss or impairment of function.

Due Process Rights

Before a student may be suspended, expelled, or permanently excluded from school, there are specific procedures that must be followed (Board Policy JFA).

In Loco Parentis

The purpose of school is to teach students, therefore, we cannot, and will not, tolerate behavior which makes it difficult or impossible to carry out that function. In the State of Ohio all teachers and administrators are defined by law as being in loco parentis (in the place of the parent), which gives them the same privileges and prerogatives with students as their parents would have in similar circumstances. Each professional staff member of West Jefferson High School has the legal power, the right and responsibility to discipline students in a reasonable way. Teachers must have order and cooperation in order to carry out the activities of teaching. It is up to them, within the boundaries of the law of school policy, to determine how to achieve and maintain that order and cooperation.

The rules and regulations above are provided so that students can be well acquainted with the behavior expected of them. Read them and be familiar with them.

Consequences

Discipline Philosophy

Webster’s Dictionary defines the word discipline as “to train or develop by instruction”. The ultimate goal of our discipline plan is to develop in the student, strong self-discipline. At the foundation of our discipline, philosophy is the element of choice. We feel strongly that behaviors are regulated by the choices that students make and our goal when disciplining students is to guide them towards appropriate choices.

The following Code of Conduct is a clear set of behavior expectations for all students to follow. Any student whose behavior disrupts the educational process will be subject to disciplinary actions according to the following hierarchy:

Verbal conversation

Alternative activity

In-school assignment

Out-of-school suspension

Expulsion

When determining the appropriate discipline for a student’s action, such factors as the severity of the action and the student’s previous discipline history will be considered. ***ANY STEP MAY BE WAIVED BY THE ADMINISTRATOR

Right to Appeal

Suspensions may be appealed to the Board or Board’s designee within ten (10) calendar days of the parent/guardian’s receipt of the written suspension notice. The written appeal must state the reasons why the suspension is being appealed.
Upon review, the Board or Board’s designee may uphold the suspension, establish an alternative suspension of lesser severity, or reverse the suspension in its entirety.
The Board or Board’s designee shall reach the decision and provide written notice to the parent/guardian within five (5) school days following the hearing.
The Board or Board’s designee shall make or cause to be made a verbatim record of appeal hearings. The record shall not be reduced to writing except at the request, cost, and arrangement of the party requesting the written record.
A student shall remain suspended for the duration of the suspension unless and until action modifying the suspension is taken on appeal.
The decision of the Board or Board’s designee may be appealed to the Court of Common Pleas as authorized by Ohio law.
Any cross-examination or questioning at the hearing is at the discretion of the Board or Board’s designee. If the student, parent/guardian, or their representative fails to follow hearing procedures established by Board policy and regulation, the hearing may be terminated and the Board or Board’s designee may proceed with a decision in the matter.

DRESS CODE

In an attempt to create an atmosphere at Norwood Elementary that stimulates learning, we have desiGned a dress code that compliments the objectives/Goals of our educational curriculum. The following dress code will serve as a Guideline to achieve Greater uniformity while allowing for personal expression within the educational framework.

Any fashion (dress, accessory, or hairstyle) that disrupts the educational process or represents a safety risk will not be permitted. As stated in the Jefferson Local Board of Education Policy, students are not allowed to wear clothing that shows an affiliation with any GanG-related activity. Under no circumstances will we permit the wearing of clothing, jewelry, badGes, or symbols which show evidence of such connection. This includes chains, tattoos (permanent or temporary), scars/marks, and haircuts. We ask parents to use good judgment in what children wear. Items of clothing that contain profanity, suggestive comments, anti-school messaGes, and obscenities are not allowed. Caps, hats, and other inappropriate head coverings may be worn in the school building on Spirit Days.

**It is within the province of the building principal to adjust any requirements, which in his/her opinion would be in the best interest of the school.

Removal of Student from School Premises/Classroom

A student may be removed from a particular class if he/she poses a threat of continued disruption to the academic process. A teacher may initiate an emergency removal of a pupil from curricular or extracurricular activities by sending the pupil to the principal’s office. As soon as possible after making such a removal, the teacher will submit to the principal, in writing, the reasons for such action. Only the principal, Dean of Students or the superintendent may remove a pupil from school premises. A hearing shall be held in accordance with procedures established for suspension except that the hearing shall take place within seventy-two hours of the initial removal. If it is probable that the pupil may be subject to expulsion, the hearing shall be held in accordance with procedures established for expulsion except that the hearing will take place within seventy-two hours of the initial removal. The individual, who ordered, caused or requested the removal to be made, shall be present at the hearing. Board Policy JGD

If a student is removed from curricular or extracurricular activities or from the school premises under this section and the student is reinstated prior to a hearing, the teacher and/or persons initiating the emergency removal of the pupil may request reasons for the pupil’s reinstatement in writing.

Search and Seizure

The Jefferson Local Schools, or its designee, reserves the right to search the lockers, desks, vehicles, person and personal belongings of a student on school grounds or at any school activity when it is reasonably necessary to maintain order, discipline and safety in the supervision and education of students. Students need to be advised that their lockers, desks, cars and personal belongings will be subject to search for contraband and harmful and dangerous substances. This may be done with local or state police. Specially trained police dogs may be used on occasion as a preventative measure, to assure all concerned that illegal drugs are not being housed on school property. The utilization of these dogs is part of an overall plan and has prior approval of the superintendent of schools. A more intrusive search, such as a student’s person, should be based on a higher standard than for a less intrusive search of a locker or other area, or personal belongings. If a person is to be searched in this manner, either parental permission will be asked for or the proper authorities will be brought into the search. Board policy JFG, JFG-R

Dealing with Suspected Chemical Dependency

The Board of Education believes that education offers the most effective means to communicate and remediate the hazards of this potentially life threatening problem. All employees within the school system are expected to take an active role in reducing or eliminating the threat posed by the presence and use of controlled substances through the implementation of preventative measures and through intervention with the possession, use, sale or distribution of controlled substances has become apparent.

Prevention- All employees of the school system are expected to aid in the prevention of student possession and use of controlled substances. Prevention is best accomplished by seeking to foster student self-esteem and morale as well as by developing and enhancing the ability to make sound life decisions. It is the intent to educate students and community members with regard to the symptoms and effects of controlled substances. Each employee will therefore familiarize himself/herself with the following available resources in assisting in the prevention of the use of controlled substances.

Student support services in the school system, such as counselors, psychologists.
Programs designed to support behavioral change(s) of students who are in recovery of substance abuse, or who are having difficulty in coping with life situations.
School experiences designed to provide students with feelings of success, accomplishment, enhanced self-esteem and increased decision making capabilities.
Educational programs for students, staff, parents and the community to provide awareness of the signs, symptoms and the effects of the use of controlled substances.

Intervention- The Board of Education prohibits the use, possession, sale or distribution of controlled substances by students except for supervised prescribed medications taken pursuant to the instructions of a licensed physician.

The First Step in the Intervention Process is the identification of students who may be affected by their own use, possession, sale or distribution of controlled substances, or by that of others in the school community. All employees of the school system shall report any circumstances which they believe to be indicative of the use, sale, possession or distribution of controlled substances to the principal of the building in which the student is enrolled. Sources of information relating to these suspicious circumstances include:

Communications with the student’s family.
Observations/documentation by administrators, teachers, counselors or other school staff members.
Admissions by the student or by his peers.
The results of the evaluations performed by community agencies specializing in treatment of problems related to controlled substances.

When school authorities become aware of the actual use, possession, sale or distribution of controlled substances, the following procedures shall be enforced:

Sale or distribution of controlled substances
- The principal will contact the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student.
- The principal must notify the local police department and submit all evidence and other pertinent information.
- The principal will recommend to the superintendent that the student be expelled.

Possession, Use or Receipt of Controlled Substance(s)

The principal will contact the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student.
The principal has the discretion to provide a warning on the first infraction depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The principal may notify the local police department, other appropriate authorities and the superintendent to determine legal ramifications of the incident.
The student may be suspended for up to ten days in accordance with procedures identified in the Student Behavior Policy.
Students may elect to be involved in support groups (substance abuse, co-dependent groups, recovery groups, etc.), or undergo a professionally
controlled substance dependency appraisal, and/or begin rehabilitation.
Controlled substance dependency evaluations and rehabilitation programs shall be conducted by agencies or persons who are recognized authorities in this field, and at the expense of the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s).
When a student is willing to have a professional dependency evaluation:
- The parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student shall notify the school principal that the student has made contact with and is willing to comply with the evaluation and treatment process. (An Assessment Contract must be completed by a complying organization and returned to school.)
- Students who refuse evaluations or who terminate such treatment or attendance at a support group before successful completion may be suspended
  for the remainder of the original suspension.
- Students who are in an outpatient treatment service should attend school during this period.

Repeated Offenses of Use, Possession, or Receipt of Controlled Substances:

Parent(s)/Guardian(s), the local police department and/or other authorities will be notified regarding the student’s repeated use and/or possession of controlled substances.
Any repeated offenses shall be reviewed in the context of the student’s age, maturity and history of behavior since the first offense.

Norwood Elementary

Norwood Elementary

Norwood Handbook

Forward

Schedules

Section 1: School Operations

Section 2: Student Health & Well-Being

Section 3: Student Attendance

Section 4: Academics

Section 5: Student Conduct

Section 6: Electronic Devices

Section 7: Internet/Computer Guidelines & Acceptable Use

Section 8: Supplies