Couch R-I Student Handbook

Couch High School Welcome Statement

• caring, professionally trained educators
• prevailing belief that every student will be successful, whatever it takes, no excuses
• safe, supportive, and well-managed learning environment
• motivating lessons and rigorous activities designed to achieve mastery
• high expectations for intellectual development, positive citizenship, and quality student work

Couch High school is a cooperative enterprise on the part of the students, teachers, support staff, parents, and administration that work together for the common interest of all. Remember to treat each other and our school with dignity and respect. We welcome everyone in the community to share, with PRIDE, our school’s progress.

Labels: Staff Relations

Last Updated Thursday, July 25, 2024

Message from the High School Principal

Welcome to the Couch High School 2024-2025 school year. It is my hope that you will take advantage of all the educational programs and extracurricular activities CHS has to offer. I expect our school to stimulate your interest in lifelong learning and our teachers and staff to provide positive support and high quality instruction.

The Couch Board of Education approved this handbook with the hope that students and parents would have a clear understanding of our expectations for student success. The policies and procedures contained in this handbook are designed to assist students in getting the most from their educational experience.

Student success requires a collaborative effort between the educator, student, parents and community. Beyond academic obligations, the promotion of civic responsibility and character development are crucial to the success of our students. My expectations for all students include:

• attending school on a daily basis
• putting forth academic effort to produce quality work
• exhibiting a positive attitude, while respecting others
• practicing self-discipline; and taking pride in school

If you have any questions after reading this handbook, please do not hesitate to contact the school. Together we can make a positive impact in each other’s lives and take our school and students to the next level of greatness!

Sincerely,
Anthony Collins
Anthony Collins
High School Principal

Labels: Staff Relations

Last Updated Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Message from the Elementary Principal

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students;

On behalf of the family at Couch R-1 School District, we would like to welcome you to the new school year at Couch R-1 Elementary. We look forward to working with the children at Couch R-1 Elementary. We, the administration, faculty and staff, are committed to providing a high quality, well-rounded education in the safest of environments to our students. Each child’s educational success is dependent upon the hard work of the educator and child, along with the cooperation and support of the parent/guardian/community. Couch R-1 Elementary stands committed to the achievement of this mission.

As we continue to create 21st-century leaders, we must strive to keep technology as an instructional resource at our school. With the integration of technology into the classroom, children are taught using a project based method of instruction which encourages, creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. All classrooms are set up with Chromebooks for every child to complement their learning experiences.

We encourage our parents and community members to be involved in our school activities. We believe that when support extends beyond the classroom walls, children can achieve even greater success. Our teachers and staff are focused on making learning a positive experience, helping children become successful and responsible citizens.

As a parent you are your child’s most important teacher. Here are some things you can do to help your children be successful:

1. Show you care. Your child needs hugs and words of support. Ask your child about school each day.
2. Read, read, read! Read with your child or have him or her read every day. Make it fun-- talk about what you've read.
3. Make home a place for learning. Help your child practice reading, writing, math and science skills. Stimulate your child's creativity.
4. Promote healthy habits. Make sure your child gets plenty of sleep and exercise and eats balanced meals. Schedule regular check-ups.
5. Be a role model. Your child learns from you. Be positive about education and show you enjoy learning.
6. Encourage independence. Allow your child to make mistakes and learn to accept their consequences. Give your child responsibilities, such as household chores.
7. Create a study routine. Set a time and quiet place for your child to work every day. Go over homework together.
8. Get involved. Meet with your child's teacher, attend school events and help out at school if you can.
9. Build success. Help raise your child's self-esteem by setting reachable goals and praising your child's efforts, not just results.
10. Make school important. Insist on good attendance and punctuality.

We are looking forward to an exciting year. TOGETHER we will make this a great year for the children of Couch R-1 Elementary.

Sincerely,
Rachel Wiggs
Rachel Wiggs
Elementary Principal

Message from the Counselor

To the Students of Couch High School:

At Couch High School, we believe that the education of all students is important, regardless of their plans following high school. We realize that a large number of our graduates will choose to attend a community or 4-year college/university, others may go directly into the workforce or the military, and still others may seek additional training at a post-secondary vocational school or technical school. The state A+ Schools program is designed to ensure that no matter which option is chosen, all high school students will be provided selections of courses, career counseling, technology and/or workplace skill development opportunities appropriate to their career goals.

The A+ Schools Program is dedicated to the following goals: all students will graduate from high school, all students will complete a high school curriculum that is rigorous and challenging and identifies learner expectations, and all students will proceed from high school graduation to college, post-secondary vocational/technical school or a high wage job with workplace skill opportunities.

For the new school year, the A+ Program will continue to have Career Day, job shadowing experiences, participate in Career/Job Fairs, and provide tutoring opportunities during and after school. I hope that you take advantage of some or all of the activities that will be taking place.

Students who have signed an A+ Agreement and have met all the requirements will be eligible to be reimbursed for two years of tuition at any Missouri public community college or vocational/technical school. These schools will provide training and skills that will increase your earning power and job satisfaction for a lifetime or will allow you to transfer to a four year college or university where you can earn a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Our main goal is to help each one of you and for all students to graduate with direction and confidence to enter the workforce in a high-wage job or go on to further education and training. I will be more than happy to discuss the A+ Program with you or your parents. This is an excellent program for any student because it is based on your efforts instead of financial need. I hope that each one of you will take advantage of the program. I look forward to working with you during this new school year.

Sincerely,
Destini Ball
Destini Ball
Counselor/A+ Coordinator

Labels: Staff Relations

Couch School District Mission Statement

The mission of Couch R-I School District is to provide experiences that will enhance the skills and talents students possess in order to prepare them for life.

Labels: Staff Relations

Philosophy of Couch R-I Schools

The Couch R-I School District recognizes that the purpose of education is to help the student realize his/her self-worth and thus leading them toward becoming a productive member of a democratic society. A strong emphasis must be placed upon the fundamentals of academic, physical, and technical skills as well as social and democratic values. The district adheres to the belief that cooperation among parents, educators, students, and community is essential for success.

Each student is a unique individual; therefore, we believe that education should provide an opportunity for the maximum development of each individual within the limitations of his/her capacities. We believe that the student must take responsibility for his/her education as an opportunity to enhance his/her skills and talents as a guide to becoming a productive member of society. Students should internalize ownership of the knowledge and skills they gain while attending Couch R-I School.

We recognize the role of the educator is to provide an environment in which individuals can be challenged to the maximum level of their capacity, as they acquire knowledge and skills to solve problems which will help them to become productive members of society. We recognize that the role of the parents/guardians is to encourage their child each day to give his/her best effort to maximum education.

Labels: Staff Relations

Couch School Song

Onward we march together
Faithful may we ever be
No thought of time or weather
Hearts filled with hop and ecstasy
Bravely we’ll fight our battles
Happily we’ll meet success
But the things for which we strive
Are honor and happiness

Hep – Hep – Hep
Three cheers for old Couch High
Voices ring
Hep – Hep – Hep
Just see our colors fly
While we sing
Forward march
Let this our motto be
Vic-to-ry

Through all kinds of weather
We will job along together
True and loyal we shall ever be.

Labels: Staff Relations

Standard Complaint Resolution Procedure For Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

This complaint resolution procedure applies to all programs administered by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education under the No Child Left Behind Act.

A complaint is a formal allegation that a specific federal or state law or regulation has been violated, misapplied, or misinterpreted by school by school district personnel or by Department of Education personnel.

Any parent or guardian, surrogate parent, teacher, administrator, school board member, or other person directly involved with an activity, program, or project operated under the general supervision of the Department may file a complaint. Such a complaint must be in writing and signed; it will provide specific details of the situation and indicate the law or regulation that is allegedly being violated, misapplied, or misinterpreted.

The written, signed complaint must be filed and the resolution pursued in accordance with local district policy:

• The principal shall schedule a conference with the student and any staff members involved to attempt to resolve the problem. Parents/guardians may be involved in the conference, or a later conference for parents/guardians may be scheduled at the discretion of the principal.
• If the problem is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student and/or parents/guardians, a request may be submitted for a conference with the superintendent of schools. The superintendent shall arrange a conference to consider the problem, and to inform participants of the action that will be taken.
• If the student and/or parents/guardians are not satisfied with the action of the superintendent, they may submit a written request to appear before the Board of Education. Unless required by law, a hearing will be at the discretion of the Board. The decision of the Board shall be final.

If the issue cannot be resolved at the local level, the complainant may file a complaint with the Missouri Department of Education. If there is no evidence that the parties have attempted in good faith to resolve the complaint at the local level, the Department may require the parties to do so and may provide technical assistance to facilitate such resolution.

Any persons directly affected by the actions of the Department may file a similarly written complaint if they believe state or federal laws or regulations have been violated, misapplied, or misinterpreted by the Department itself.

Anyone wishing more information about this procedure or how complaints are resolved may contact local district or Department personnel.

Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (ESSA)
Complaint Procedures

This guide explains how to file a complaint about any of the programs1 that are administered by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (the Department) under the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (ESSA)2.

What is a complaint?

For these purposes, a complaint is a written allegation that a local education agency (LEA) or the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (the Department) has violated a federal statute or regulation that applies to a program under ESSA.

Who may file a complaint?

Any individual or organization may file a complaint.

How can a complaint be filed?

Complaints can be filed with the LEA or with the Department.

How will a complaint filed with the LEA be investigated?

Complaints filed with the LEA are to be investigated and attempted to be resolved according to the locally developed and adopted procedures.

What happens if a complaint is not resolved at the local level (LEA)?

A complaint not resolved at the local level may be appealed to the Department.

How can a complaint be filed with the Department?

A complaint filed with the Department must be a written, signed statement that includes:

1. A statement that a requirement that applies to an ESSA program has been violated by the LEA or the Department, and
2. The facts on which the statement is based and the specific requirement allegedly violated.

How will a complaint filed with the Department be investigated?

The investigation and complaint resolution proceedings will be completed within a time limit of forty-five calendar days. That time limit can be extended by the agreement of all parties.

The following activities will occur in the investigation:

1. Record. A written record of the investigation will be kept.
2. Notification of LEA. The LEA will be notified of the complaint within five days of the complaint being filed.
3. Resolution at LEA. The LEA will then initiate its local complaint procedures in an effort to first resolve the complaint at the local level.
4. Report by LEA. Within thirty-five days of the complaint being filed, the LEA will submit a written summary of the LEA investigation and complaint resolution. This report is considered public record and may be made available to parents, teachers, and other members of the general public.
5. erification. Within five days of receiving the written summary of a complaint resolution, the Department will verify the resolution of the complaint through an on-site visit, letter, or telephone call(s).
6. Appeal. The complainant or the LEA may appeal the decision of the Department to the U.S. Department of Education.

How are complaints related to equitable services to nonpublic school children handled differently?

In addition to the procedures listed in number 7 above, complaints related to equitable services will also be filed with the U.S. Department of Education, and they will receive all information related to the investigation and resolution of the complaint. Also, appeals to the United States Department of Education must be filed no longer than thirty days following the Department’s resolution of the complaint (or its failure to resolve the complaint).

How will appeals to the Department be investigated?

The Department will initiate an investigation within ten days, which will be concluded within thirty days from the day of the appeal. This investigation may be continued beyond the thirty day limit at the discretion of the Department. At the conclusion of the investigation, the Department will communicate the decision and reasons for the decision to the complainant and the LEA. Recommendations and details of the decision are to be implemented within fifteen days of the decision being delivered to the LEA.

What happens if a complaint is not resolved at the state level (the Department)?

The complainant or the LEA may appeal the decision of the Department to the United States Department of Education.

Local education agencies are required to disseminate, free of charge, this information regarding ESSA complaint procedures to parents of students and appropriate private school officials or representatives.

Labels: Legal

Staff

Labels: Staff Relations

Class Sponsors

Labels: Staff Relations

Extra-Curricular Activity Sponsor

Labels: Staff Relations

Daily Schedule/Bell Schedule

First Bell @ 7:45 a.m.

Labels: School Operations

Academic Activities/Remediation Policy

Participation in all extra-curricular activities to include; clubs, groups, athletics, dances, prom, etc.… will be required to maintain a passing accumulative semester grade of 60% and above in all classes. Students must also maintain 95% attendance to participate in activities, including athletics.

The office will require two-week grade checks, which will be maintained on a two week grading cycle. If the student has a grade(s) that falls below the 60% requirement, or does not meet the 95% attendance requirement, he/she will be placed on a two week probation period. During the two week probation period, the teacher will make contact with the student’s parent/guardian and a tutoring option will be made available. If the student’s grade remains below the 60% academic requirement or below 95% attendance at the end of the two week probationary period, he/she will not be eligible to participate in club, group, athletic, dances, prom, etc.… activities for the following two weeks. This is to include any trips or weekend activities during the two-week deficiency. The probationary period will be used as it occurs and will not be saved to be used at a later date.

The grade will continue to be reviewed at the end of the two-week grading cycle to see if improvement has been made. If so, the student may resume activity. Students are given one, two week probation period each semester. If a student goes over the probationary period, he/she automatically becomes ineligible to participate until 60% academically and/or 95% attendance is received on a two week grade check for the remainder of the semester. The student may also be pulled from an elective class and placed within a remediation class for the duration of the semester and/or year.

Students who fall below 95% attendance may resume activity as soon as they make up their attendance; they do not have to wait the two-week time period.

Teachers are to report all accumulative semester grades of 69% and below on two week grade checks, so parents and administration can be made aware of a student’s problem in a class before it proceeds further.

Labels: Academics & Career Readiness

Academic Letter

In order to earn a letter at Couch High School, a student must accumulate 40 points by participating in the following activities:

Labels: Academics & Career Readiness

Accidents at School

All accidents occurring at school or at school sponsored activities must be reported immediately to the administration and school nurse. Accidents of a serious nature will be reported immediately to parents and, if necessary, to an appropriate health care provider.

Labels: Health

Addressing Teachers

Students must address teachers and all school personnel appropriately, Coach Miller, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Ball. Students shall not address teachers by their first names or use slang such as "bro" or "dude".

Labels: Code of Conduct/Discipline

Admissions

The Board of Education shall provide free public education to all students who are residents of the school district and who are between the ages of five (5) and 21 years and who otherwise qualify for admission under Missouri law unless otherwise required by federal law. Federal law also requires the district to provide services to resident students qualifying for special education services between the ages of three (3) and 21. Any senior qualifying for graduation at the end of the school semester and attaining age 21 during the course of the semester may complete that particular semester tuition free. Persons seeking admission to the district and its instructional programs must satisfactorily meet all residency, academic, age, immunization, discipline and other eligibility prerequisites as established by Board policy and law. Students who are homeless will be admitted in accordance with Board policy and law. Students who transfer to the district from another district will be placed in accordance with Board policy.

The minimum age for enrollment in Kindergarten is the age of five (5) as of August 1st of the year of enrollment. Any student who has been enrolled in a Kindergarten program in another state for a period of not less than sixty (60) days, and who will become five (5) during the school year in which he/she is enrolled in Kindergarten, and whose parents or guardians establish domicile in their school district, may be enrolled in Kindergarten upon the written request of the student’s parent or guardian.

The minimum age for enrollment in first grade shall be six (6) before August 1st of the year of initial enrollment if the child has completed a Kindergarten program prior to enrollment. Any six (6) year old child who has not completed a Kindergarten program prior to enrollment in the Couch School District shall be evaluated by the principal or designee. The child will be placed in the first grade if the evaluation results indicate that the child is ready for enrollment at the first grade level. If the evaluation results indicate that the child is not ready for enrollment at the first grade level, the child will be enrolled in Kindergarten.

A copy of the birth certificate, social security card, and immunization record is required at the time of admission. Students who do not have immunization records available will not be allowed to enroll until appropriate records are received. Also, students enrolling in Kindergarten or first grade must provide proof of a comprehensive vision examination by January 1st of the first year in the district, in accordance with the law.

Before a student can be admitted, to any grade 1st through 6th, written evidence must be presented that he/she has been promoted to the grade in which he/she is seeking enrollment. Home schooled students will be evaluated by the principal or designee to determine placement.

Requests for Student Records

Within two (2) business days of enrolling a student, the school official enrolling the student shall request those records required by district policy for student transfer, including discipline records, from all schools previously attended by the student within the last 12 months.

Within 48 hours of enrolling a nonresident student placed in the district pursuant to §§ 210.481-.536, RSMo., via foster homes, residential care facilities or child-placing agencies, the school official enrolling the student shall request those records required by district policy for student transfer, including discipline records, from all schools and facilities previously attended by the student; the Department of Social Services; the Department of Mental Health; the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education; and any entity involved with the placement of the student within the last 24 months.

Statement of Prior Suspension, Expulsion or Criminal Offense

The Board of Education requires the parent, guardian or other person having control or charge of a child of school age to provide upon enrollment a signed statement indicating whether the student has been suspended or expelled from a public or private school in this state or any other state for an offense in violation of Board policies. In addition, the person enrolling the student must affirm that the student has not been convicted of or charged with an act listed in the "Admission Restriction" section of this policy. This registration document shall be maintained as a part of the student's scholastic record.

Students Suspended or Expelled from another District

Without the superintendent or designee permission, no student may enroll in a school in the district during a suspension or expulsion from another in-state or out-of-state school district, including a private, charter or parochial school or school district, if it is determined upon attempt to enroll that the student's conduct would have resulted in a suspension or expulsion in this district. The parent, guardian or student may request a conference with the superintendent or designee to consider if the conduct of the student would have resulted in a suspension or expulsion in this district. The superintendent or designee may make such suspension or expulsion from another district effective if it is determined that such conduct would have resulted in a suspension or expulsion in this district. If it is determined that such conduct would not have resulted in a suspension or expulsion in this district, the superintendent or designee shall not make such suspension or expulsion from another school or district effective. The superintendent or designee will consider whether the student has received the due process required by law before making any decision. A remedial conference will be held in accordance with Board policy prior to enrollment of any student following a suspension or expulsion from another school for an act of school violence as defined in § 160.261.2, RSMo. The remedial conference will be held regardless of whether such act was committed at a public or private school in this state, provided that such act shall have resulted in the suspension or expulsion of such student in the case of a private school.

Admission Restriction

In accordance with § 167.171, RSMo., no student may be readmitted or enrolled to a regular program of instruction in the school district who has been convicted of or charged with an act that if committed by an adult would be one (1) of the following:

• First degree murder under section 565.020, RSMo
• Second degree murder under section 565.021, RSMo
• Kidnapping when classed as a Class A felony under section 565.110, RSMo
• First degree assault under section 565.050, RSMo
• Forcible rape under section 566.030, RSMo
• Forcible sodomy under section 566.060, RSMo
• Robbery in the first degree under section 569.020, RSMo
• Distribution of drugs to a minor under section 195.212, RSMo
• Arson in the first degree under section 569.040, RSMo
• Statutory Rape section 566.032 RSMo
• Statutory Sodomy Section 566.062 RSMo

Nothing in this section shall prohibit the re-admittance or enrollment of any student if a charge has been dismissed or when a student has been acquitted of any of the above acts. This section does not apply to a student with a disability, as identified under state eligibility criteria, who is convicted as a result of an action related to the student’s disability. If the district maintains an alternative education program, and the district determines that the placement is appropriate, a student subject to these admissions restrictions may be admitted to such an alternative education program.

Labels: Enrollment & Attendance

After School Activities

Students are strongly encouraged to participate in or attend all home sporting events and other after-school activities and events. Students are expected to remain seated in designated areas and behave appropriately during games, programs and performances. Once a student leaves any school activity, he/she will not be readmitted. If a student is removed from any event, he/she may be banned from future activities, both home and away. Students are expected to have a ride home and leave immediately after each activity. Appropriate demonstrations of school spirit are expected and encouraged. Proper etiquette is required at all concerts, plays, musicals, assemblies, dances, events and programs. Staying after school to attend an evening event is not permitted unless under the direction of a teacher and prior approval has been granted from administration.

Students staying after school for school approved activities must have written permission from parents/guardians. Students without written permission will NOT be allowed to stay after school. Students, including siblings, who are not involved in the activity are not permitted to stay after school.

Labels: Extracurricular

Alcohol and Drugs on School Property

The Couch School District is concerned with the health, welfare and safety of its students. Therefore, use, sale, transfer, distribution, possession or being under the influence of unauthorized prescription drugs, alcohol, narcotic substances, unauthorized inhalants, controlled substances, illegal drugs, counterfeit substances and imitation controlled substances is prohibited on any district property, in any district-owned vehicle or in any other district approved vehicle used to transport students to and from school or district activities. This prohibition also applies to any district-sponsored or district-approved activity, event or function, such as a field trip or athletic event, where students are under the supervision of the school district. The use, sale, transfer or possession of drug-related paraphernalia is also prohibited. For the purpose of this policy a controlled substance shall include any controlled substance, counterfeit substance or imitation 18 controlled substance as defined in the Narcotic Drug Act, § 195.010, RSMo., and in schedules I, II, III, IV and V in section 202(c) of the Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. § 812(c). Students may only be in possession of medication as detailed in Board policy JHCD. Searches of persons reasonably suspected to be in violation of this policy will be conducted in accordance with Board policy. Any student who is found by the administration to be in violation of this policy shall be referred for prosecution and subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension, expulsion or other discipline in accordance with the district's discipline policy. Strict compliance is mandatory. The school principal shall immediately report all incidents involving a controlled substance to the appropriate local law enforcement agency and the superintendent. All controlled substances shall be turned over to local law enforcement. Students with disabilities who violate this policy will be disciplined in accordance with policy.

The following enumerated items may be adhered to when, in the best administrative judgment of the administrator, any student has in his possession any controlled substance:

1. The local law enforcement officials may be notified and called to the school immediately if a substance is available.
2. If a substance is available, it will be turned over to the law enforcement officials. They will be asked to identify the substance.
3. Within ten (10) days of the initial suspension, the principal will have a recommendation for the superintendent concerning reinstatement, continued suspension or expulsion.
4. The superintendent will make the Board aware of the types of offenses, and if the nature of the situation warrants punishment over 90 days of suspension, the superintendent will make a recommendation to the board. The Board reserves the right to call in outside civil authorities where it deems appropriate.
5. The student will have the right to appeal the actions taken by the principal to the superintendent of schools and then to the Board of Education.

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (P.L. 101-226) requires that parents and students be given a copy of the standards of conduct and the statement of disciplinary sanctions. Couch School will provide information about any drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation and re-entry programs that are available to students. Compliance with this policy is mandatory according to Public Law 101- 226.

Students have no expectation of privacy in lockers, desks, computers, or other district-provided equipment or areas. The district will conduct periodic and unannounced administrative searches of lockers, computers and other district equipment. The district uses dogs to indicate the presence of alcohol, drugs, or other prohibited substances on campus, including the parking lot. Additional searches of bags, purses, coats, electronic devices, other personal possessions and vehicles in accordance with law.

Labels: Code of Conduct/Discipline

Arrival to School

Students will be permitted in the building at 7:15, but not before. It is expected that all students will be in class, fully prepared, and ready to learn by 7:45 a.m. each school day. Students arriving after 7:45 a.m. may face disciplinary action for being tardy. Students who ride a school bus will be dropped off each morning (and picked up in the afternoon) behind the High School Building. Students arriving by car may arrive at 7:15 and park in the high school parking lot west of the New Gym. A parking permit will be mandatory.

Labels: School Operations

Asbestos Notice

Some buildings contain asbestos materials on the Couch R-I School campus. An inspection of asbestos containing materials and assumed asbestos containing materials is conducted every three years by Mead Environmental Associates, Inc. Anyone wanting more information or wishing to view the Couch R-I Asbestos Management Plan can do so in the Superintendent’s office.

Labels: Legal

Assembly Programs

Assembly programs are an extension of classroom learning situations. Students are expected to conduct themselves at assembly programs as they would during any other classroom activity. Out-of-school guests are frequent visitors during assembly programs and the behavior of the student body during such programs reflects favorably or unfavorably on the school and the student body. Therefore, misbehavior such as whispering, booing, or other forms of disrespect will not be tolerated. Offenders will be appropriately disciplined and may be barred from future assemblies.

Assembly Citizenship

• Find a seat in your assigned section as quickly as possible.
• Give your undivided attention to the person or persons who have the floor.
• Get quiet as soon as the person in charge appears.
• Do not whistle, boo, yet, etc. When you want to applaud, simply clap your hands.
• Leave in a safe and orderly manner when dismissed.

Labels: School Operations

Athletic Teams

Couch High School will participate in a program of interscholastic athletics with schools of the surrounding area. All teams and members of those teams will be governed by the rules of the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA). The Indians will participate inter-scholastically in boys’ and girls’ basketball, girls’ softball, boys’ baseball, boys’ and girls’ cross-country, girls' volleyball and boys’ and girls’ track. Participants must have a yearly physical, insurance and a signed permission form to participate in an organized athletic group. In order to participate students must be academically eligible and not owe any attendance make-up hours. In order to be eligible to participate in any MSHAA sanctioned activity that will take place on the week-ends or when school is not in session, students cannot have an unexcused or unjustified absence on the last day of possible attendance.

Labels: Extracurricular

At-Risk

At-Risk classes are designed for students who have failed or are academically unsuccessful and are in danger of quitting or falling behind their cohort class. Students may not use At-Risk to graduate early or to obtain additional weighted classes. Students must take classes offered on campus with teachers hired by the Couch School Administration before being placed in At-Risk. Students must complete the scheduled series offered by the Couch School District prior to enrolling in an upper level course through At-Risk.

Labels: Academics & Career Readiness

Attendance & Absenteeism

Regular attendance is important for your student’s academic success; research has shown a direct connection between attendance and academic success. Students are expected to attend school regularly and to be on time for the beginning of each school day. The CES staff supports families and the effort to have good attendance. The state of Missouri mandates that 90% of students are in attendance 90% of the time.

Compulsory Attendance

Missouri State Law requires all children between 7 and 17 years of age to regularly attend a public, private, parochial, parish, home school or a combination of such schools for the duration of the entire school term. Parents, guardians or other persons having legal custody of a student may obtain a court order requiring the student to attend school until the student receives a high school diploma or its equivalent, or reaches the age of 21. In addition, the Couch R-1 School District provides educational programming for all students between the ages of five (5) and seven (7) and beginning at the age of three (3) for students qualified for special education services. The district may also provide preschool and adult education programs. Once enrolled in the district, the district expects the student to attend regularly and for the student’s parent or guardian or other adult having charge, control or custody of the student to communicate regularly and honestly with the district regarding the student’s absences. Because the Couch R-1 School District Board of Education and district staff strongly believe that regular attendance is important in gaining the most from the educational experience and because state law requires district staff to report all instances of abuse and neglect, including educational neglect, the district will make every effort to ensure students are attending school as required by law. Attendance is divided into the following categories: good attendance (5 or fewer absences), regular attendance (95 percent rate), chronic absence (attendance rate of 90 percent), severe chronic absence (attendance rate of 80 percent), and truant (unlawfully absent 20 percent of days).

Perfect Attendance

Perfect attendance shall be awarded to students missing no more than a total of three hours of school for the entire school year.

Students will be allowed the number of days missed plus two (2) to make up work after being absent. (In grades 5 and 6 it is the student’s responsibility to request make-up work from the teacher.)

Exceptions

Approved, school sponsored, out-of-school activities (field trips, sporting events, etc.) will not be counted as absences for purposes of the excessive absence regulation. Absences resulting from significant, acute or chronic medical conditions may provide the basis for an exception as approved by the administration or an appeal. Therefore, all such conditions should be verified in writing by a physician or other health care official.

Steps to Follow When Absent From School

Please make sure you read and understand the following information as it requires parents, guardians and students to be accountable for notifying the school regarding student absences.

1. A parent or guardian should notify the attendance office on the day of (or before) the absence (417-938-4212).
2. The office should be contacted prior to known doctor, dental, and family appointments. A student must be signed out by a parent/guardian before leaving school, and sign in upon returning to school.
3. Students will be allowed one (1) day for every day missed plus two additional days to complete make-up work.
4. Students absent for authorized school activities are responsible for making up all work missed.
5. An absence for an authorized school activity simply allows the student the privilege of making up the work within a reasonable time (established by the teacher) and does not excuse the student from the make-up work.
6. Students absent for school purposes will be required to complete the “Field Trip Approval Form” no later than two days before the event and must not owe any make-up hours.
7. Students who attend school, but leave early for another school activity, may be required by their teacher to turn in any assignment due that day.
8. There are no school-sanctioned class “skip” days. Students who participate in organized skip day activities will be considered truant.

Absenteeism

Excessive absenteeism is defined by Missouri Department of Educations as missing five (5) or more regular school days during a semester (for other than school sanctioned activities). CES will use the following procedures, for students in grades K-6, who are absent from school and implement the intervention strategies listed below for students who are absent five (5) or more unexcused days per semester or who’s attendance drops below 90% for the cumulative school year (including both excused and unexcused absences):

• If a student exceeds the attendance policy, missing five (5) or more unexcused days in a semester or who’s attendance drops below 90% for the cumulative school year (including both excused and unexcused absences), the student will be assigned attendance remediation and will be ineligible to attend school trips, play sports or other incentive/extracurricular events. Extreme circumstances will be dealt with by the administration, on a case-by-case basis.
• The parent/guardian will receive an automated phone call after 10:30 a.m. each time their child is absent from school.
• If a student is absent from school for four (4) days, the student’s parent/guardians will be notified in writing.
• The parent/guardian will receive a personal phone call from the office if their child is absent for (6) days.
• When a student has accumulated a total of ten (10) absences for the year, the school will set up a conference to develop an attendance plan that includes specific intervention strategies designed to improve the student’s attendance. When a student misses more than ten (10) days, the district will then contact the Children’s Division Department of Social Services. More than ten (10) absences will be a factor in determining whether a student may be retained.

Excused absences will be granted for:

• Personal illnesses or injury of a student with written confirmation by the medical provider. (A doctor’s statement, specifying the dates and times excused from school. Physician’s notes must be received by the principal or the elementary office within two days of being absent. If notes are not turned in during this time frame, absences will be considered unexcused.)
• Medical and dental appointments with written confirmation from the medical provider. (A doctor’s statement, specifying the dates and times excused from school. Physician’s notes must be received by the principal or the elementary office within two days of being absent. If notes are not turned in during this time frame, absences will be considered unexcused.)
• Death and/or funeral of family members with written confirmation by the parent. Each student will receive 3 bereavement days. (Written documentation must be provided to the elementary office within two days of the absent. If notes are not turned in during this time frame, absences will be considered unexcused.)
• Verified court appointments or related court-ordered activity. (Written documentation must be provided to the elementary office within two days of the absent. If notes are not turned in during this time frame, absences will be considered unexcused.)
• The school nurse may excuse a student for the remainder of the school day.

Attendance Remediation

Students absent five (5) or more days in a semester or who’s attendance drops below 90% for the cumulative school year (including both excused and unexcused absences), will be assigned attendance remediation. The purpose of attendance remediation is to allow students who exceed the attendance policy to make up classwork and lessons missed while absent. Attendance remediation will take place after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays for one and one-half (1.5) hours. Students will have an opportunity to make up missing assignments and receive help on homework that may have occurred due to excessive absences. Parents/Guardians are responsible for providing transportation following remediation and are to meet their child no later than 5:00 p.m. in the Elementary Parking Lot. Students who do not regularly serve the required hours will not be eligible to attend school trips, play sports or other incentive/extracurricular events. When a student misses more than ten (10) days, the district will then contact the Children’s Division Department of Social Services, even though attendance remediation has occurred.

Labels: Enrollment & Attendance

Attendance Incentive Program

Perfect attendance will be awarded to those students missing no more than three total hours for the entire school year. One "FREE DAY" excused absence will be given at the end of each semester to students who miss no more than three hours in that semester.

Labels: Enrollment & Attendance

Attendance Requirements for Course Credit

Punctual attendance is both a sign of respect toward both the teacher and the other students in the classroom; it is also part of a student’s accountability toward his/her studies. Punctual attendance is important – and not attending punctually (or being tardy) is not only discouraged, it is a violation of school policy that can’t be ignored nor tolerated. When a student is tardy to class he/she will be sent to the principal to obtain a slip to be admitted to class. Students who arrive at school any time after the first period begins, including between periods, shall report to the principal’s office and obtain an admit slip.

For attendance purposes, 4 tardies per quarter equal 1 absence.

Students who have more than four unexcused absences in any given semester must make up the time during After School tutoring. Absences will be made up on an hourly basis; if a student has five absences in one or more periods, he/she will spend one hour per period in After School Tutoring. Attendance make-up hours will not accumulate and cannot be made up in advance of the absence. (Principal may allow for extenuating circumstances.) Attendance hours must be made up outside the regular school hours.

Excused absences will be granted for:

• Personal illnesses or injury of a student with written confirmation by the medical provider. (A doctor’s statement, specifying the dates and times excused from school. Physician’s notes must be received by the principal or the high school office within two days of being absent. If notes are not turned in during this time frame, absences will be considered unexcused.)
• Medical and dental appointments with written confirmation from the medical provider. (A doctor’s statement, specifying the dates and times excused from school. Physician’s notes must be received by the principal or the high school office within two days of being absent. If notes are not turned in during this time frame, absences will be considered unexcused.)
• Death and/or funeral of family members with written confirmation by the parent. Each student will receive 3 bereavement days. (Written documentation must be provided to the high school office within two days of the absence. If notes are not turned in during this time frame, absences will be considered unexcused.)
• Verified court appointments or related court-ordered activity. (Written documentation must be provided to the high school office within two days of the absent. If notes are not turned in during this time frame, absences will be considered unexcused.)
• The school nurse may excuse a student for the remainder of the school day.

Perfect attendance shall be awarded to students missing no more than a total of three hours of school for the entire school year.

A student is responsible for homework and tests assigned prior to a planned absence or school trip. A student is responsible for taking the test and having this homework completed the first day returning to school. On unplanned absences, students have one day for each day missed plus two additional days to turn in homework. It is the student’s responsibility to ask for the homework missed and to complete it and turn it back in to the teacher within the required time frame.

This policy shall be in effect so that Couch High School can best educate the student. There is a high correlation between attendance and success in school. Parents have the responsibility to decide times and reasons a student should not come to school, but it is the school’s responsibility to set limits on these times so that the student will receive a quality education.

Perfect attendance will be awarded to those students missing no more than three total hours for the entire school year. Students with make-up hours will not be able to attend trips or participate in extracurricular activities, including sports, until make up hours are completed.

Labels: Academics & Career Readiness

Bereavement Days

Up to three (3) days of bereavement leave will be granted on the occasion of the death of a students’ spouse, child, grandparent, grandchild, parent, sister, brother, parent-in-law, brother-in-law and sister-in-law.

Labels: Enrollment & Attendance

Bullying and Hazing

In order to promote a safe learning environment for all students, the Couch School District prohibits all forms of hazing, bullying and student intimidation. Students participating in or encouraging inappropriate conduct will be disciplined in accordance with JG-R. Such discipline may include, but is not limited to, suspension or expulsion from school and removal from participation in activities. Students who have been subjected to hazing or bullying are instructed to promptly report such incidents to a school official. In addition, district staff, coaches, sponsors and volunteers shall not permit, condone or tolerate any form of hazing or bullying or plan, direct, encourage, assist, engage or participate in any activity that involves hazing or bullying. District staff will report incidents of hazing and bullying to the building principal. The principal shall promptly investigate all complaints of hazing and bullying and shall administer appropriate discipline to all individuals who violate this policy. District staff that violates this policy may be disciplined or terminated. The superintendent will provide for appropriate training designed to assist staff, coaches, sponsors and volunteers in identifying, preventing and responding to incidents of hazing and bullying. The district shall annually inform students, parents, district staff and volunteers that hazing and bullying is prohibited. This notification may occur through the distribution of the written policy, publication in handbooks, presentations at assemblies or verbal instructions by the coach or sponsor at the start of the season or program.

Bullying

For the purposes of this policy, bullying is defined as intimidation or harassment of a student or multiple students perpetuated by individuals or groups. Bullying included, but is not limited to: physical actions, including violence, gestures, theft, or damaging property; oral or written taunts, including name-calling, put-downs, extortion, or threats; or threats of retaliation for reporting such acts. Bullying may also include cyberbullying or cyber threats.

Cyberbullying

For the purposes of this policy, cyberbullying is typically defined as sending or posing harmful, negative, or cruel text or images using the Internet or any other digital communications device, including cellular phones. A cyber threat includes any online material that threatens or raises concerns about violence against others, destruction of public or private property, suicide, or self-harm. Acts of cyber bullying can be committed electronically by email or text messaging, on the Internet, on voice mail messages, or any other medium of communication or expression. Cyberbullying and cyber threats will not be tolerated at Couch High School. Consequences for verified incidents of cyberbullying and cyber threats range from in-school suspension, out of school suspension, and expulsion from the school district. Hazing: For purposes of this policy, hazing is defined as any activity, on or off school grounds, that a reasonable person believes would negatively impact the mental or physical health or safety of a student or put the student in a ridiculous, humiliating, stressful for disconcerting position for the purposes of initiation, affiliation, admission, membership or maintenance of membership in any group, class, organization, club or athletic team including, but not limited to, a grade level, student organization or school-sponsored activity. Hazing may include those actions that subject a student to extreme mental stress including, but not limited to, sleep deprivation, physical confinement, forced conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment or criminal activity, or other stress-inducing activities. Hazing may also include, but is not limited to: acts of physical brutality; whipping; beating; branding; exposing to the elements; forced consumption of any food, liquor, drug or other substance; forcing inhalation or ingestion of tobacco products; or any other forced physical activity that could adversely affect the physical health or safety of an individual. Hazing may occur even when all students involved are willing participants. Hazing does not occur when a student is required to audition or tryout for an organization when the criteria are reasonable, approved by the district and legitimately related to the purpose of the organization.

Labels: Code of Conduct/Discipline

Campus Hours

The high school building will be open for students at 7:15 a.m. and will close at 3:45 p.m. Students are encouraged to eat breakfast in the cafeteria when they arrive at school beginning at 7:15 p.m. Any student in the building, other than during regular school hours, must be in the company of a teacher or sponsor. Upon arrival at school at 7:15, high school students are to enter the building and report to the old gym until the bell rings.

Labels: School Operations

Cancellations

All students will be contacted by the School Reach automated calling system when school is to be canceled due to inclement weather or other extenuating circumstances. Local radio and regional television stations will also report school cancellations as they are made available by the superintendent.

Labels: Communication

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Certificate

Students entering high school in 2017-2018 or thereafter will be eligible to earn a CTE certificate by meeting the following criteria:

• Meet all graduation requirements
• Qualify as a CTE concentrator
• Maintain a 3.0 grade-point average (on a 4.0 scale) in the CTE area of concentration
• Pass an approved Technical Skills Assessment and/or earn an approved industry Recognized Credential or Certificate
• Complete at least 50 hours of work-based learning aligned with the CTE area of concentration
• Maintain at least a 95 percent attendance record overall for grades 9-12
• Demonstrate soft skills/business skills
• Achieve a score at or above the state standard on any DESE-approved measure of college and career readiness

Labels: Academics & Career Readiness

Class interruptions

Students WILL NOT be allowed to take phone calls from parents or other outside parties during class time. Parents should also refrain from texting students during school hours. Exceptions will be allowed in emergency situations, upon approval from administration. The office staff will relay a message to students between classes or at lunch, so as not to interrupt the learning environment of your child and those around him/her. Phone calls and text messages interrupt the educational process and will be relayed at the discretion of the principal or the secretary in the principal’s absence.

Labels: School Operations

Classification of Students

The Board believes that a student should be placed in the grade level and classes that best meet the student's academic needs, after consultation with the student's parent/guardian. A student's social and emotional needs will also be considered, to the extent that they affect academic progress. Although the district will first consider placing students in grade levels or classes with students of similar age, age will not necessarily be the determining factor. Further, any student's placement may be adjusted by the principal or designee as needed, after consultation with the student's parent/guardian. The district's administrative staff will make the final decision regarding assignment of students to grade levels or classes. Students receiving special education services will be placed in accordance with law.

Labels: Academics & Career Readiness

Classroom Expectations

All Couch High School students will meet the following expectations on a daily basis:

• Students will be in their classroom and ready to learn when the tardy bell rings.
• Students will be prepared for class by having their books, supplies, and completed homework.
• Students will be respectful of the teacher, other students, and school property.
• Students will be safe and orderly at all times.
• Students will maintain a positive attitude toward learning.

Labels: Code of Conduct/Discipline

Cell Phones

Developments in cell phone technology in recent years have resulted in enhanced communication opportunities. However, the use of cellphones in schools poses increased risks of school disruptions, academic dishonesty, bullying, and criminal activity. As a result, cell phones will not be used in the school building during the instructional day and on school buses/vans coming to and from school. Students using cell phones during this timeframe will be disciplined according to the handbook policy. The school district is not liable or responsible for any electronic devices brought to school or school functions.

Labels: Code of Conduct/Discipline

Code of Ethics For Extracurricular and Interscholastic Organizations

Members of these teams and/or organizations have a dual role – they represent the team/organizations as a unit and they represent the school as a whole. Therefore, members must be credible school citizens. A credible school citizen is one whose conduct, both in school and out of school, will not reflect badly on oneself or on the school.

Members of all CHS organizations and teams will:

1. Abide by the rules and regulations of the organizations or activity and of the school.
2. Be law-abiding and truthful in his/her actions.
3. Be honest and sincere.
4. Refrain from any unbecoming behavior.
5. Respect the rights and opinions of others.
6. Willingly accept responsibility and duty.
7. Willingly accept suggestions, criticisms, and decisions of instructors, coaches and sponsors.
8. Cooperate with instructors, coaches, sponsors and fellow students.
9. Utilize the appropriate steps to solve problems and to settle disagreements.
10. Dress appropriately and neatly for the given occasion.
11. Maintain satisfactory grades.
At all times, conduct oneself in such a way that he/she will bring credit to him/herself, the organization or activity, and the school.

Failure to abide by any section of this CODE OF ETHICS may result in suspension or dismissal from the organization, the activity, or the school you represent – and the right to any rewards, recognitions, or scholarships you would have received as a member of the activity, organization or school.

Students who have served more than 3- ISS terms or 1- OSS term for any reason will not be eligible to run for office or to continue holding office during that school year.

Labels: Extracurricular

College Preparatory Studies Certificate

Requirements & Guidelines

The Missouri State Board of Education awards the College Preparatory Studies Certificate (CPSC) to Missouri students who successfully complete a rigorous academic program in high school. The certificate is awarded in addition to the regular high school diploma granted by local school districts. Created by the Board in 1985, the certificate is designed to provide incentive and recognition for public and non-public high school students who exceed the state’s minimum graduation requirements. Because the certificate is awarded by the state, local schools may not add additional requirements for students to qualify.

In 1994, the State Board of Education revised its requirements for the CPSC in order to align with the “Core Curriculum” standards recommended by the Coordinating Board for Higher Education as a basis for college admissions in Missouri. These guidelines will be used in awarding certificates to qualified high school students, beginning in 1996.

Awarding the College Preparatory Studies Certificate is voluntary on the part of school districts, and meeting the requirements is voluntary on the part of the students. While the certificate is primarily intended as an incentive for college-bound students, those who are not planning to enter college also may wish to work toward earning the award. School officials are encouraged to use the program to encourage ALL students to pursue excellence in their high school studies.

To be eligible for the certificate, a student must meet these requirements:

1. Complete a rigorous high school program cooperatively planned by the school, the student and the student’s parents. The program must include at least these units of credit:
   
   

   Subject Units

   Communication Arts	4
   Mathematics	4
   Science	3
   Social Studies	3
   Fine Arts	1
   Practical Arts	1
   Personal Finance	½
   Health	½
   Physical Education	1
   Electives (see Guidelines)	7
   Total	25

2. Earn at least a 3.0 grade point average (GPA), on a 4.0 scale, in the combined subject areas of English/language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. The school may calculate GPAs for its students at the end of the seventh or eighth semester of high school.
3. Score at or above the prior year’s national composite average mean on the American College Test (ACT) or on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). This criterion is revised annually to reflect the latest national averages from the ACT and SAT. Check the current year’s certification forms for the required minimum scores.
4. Maintain a 9-12 attendance rate of at least 95 percent.
5. Complete a strong academic program, as specifically outlined in the section that follows: Dual-credit courses taken in high school for both high school and college credit may be counted toward satisfying the core curriculum requirements.

Courses taken by middle/junior high school students may be counted as satisfying the high school core curriculum requirement if the content is equivalent to high school courses and if subsequent courses in the subject are shown on the high school transcript.

Communication Arts

At least four units, one of which may be speech or debate, and two units of which must be in courses emphasizing composition or writing skills. Interpretive Notes: Courses in foreign language, school publications, yearbook, media, photography, and radio and television may not be counted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Speech and debate courses are counted for communication arts credit. Scholastic journalism may be counted for communication arts credit, but only if it is taught by a certificated English teacher.

Mathematics

At least four units from the following: algebra I, plane geometry, algebra II, precalculus, trigonometry, analytic geometry, calculus, math analysis, and statistics. Interpretive Notes: Applied Mathematics may be counted only if the student successfully completes a standard algebra II course. Standard algebra courses that have been subdivided, e.g., algebra I is divided into algebra IA and IB, may be counted only as one course unit. Algebra I taken in the seventh or eighth grade may be counted toward meeting requirement.

Science

At least three units (not including general science) selected from biology, chemistry, or physics, one of which is a laboratory course. Interpretive Notes: Examples of courses acceptable toward the three units: botany, zoology, anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics. Application in Biology/Chemistry and Principles of Technology may be counted. Life science, physical science and earth science may be counted only if it can be demonstrated that they are taught at the high school level with a rigor comparable to biology, chemistry or physics.

Social Studies

Least three units, including American history, world history, and at least one semester of government. Interpretive Notes: Examples of courses acceptable toward the three units: World history, American history, American government, civics, principles of democracy, economics, psychology, sociology, political science and geography.

Fine Arts

At least one unit of fine arts courses including the visual arts, music, dance and theater. Interpretive Notes: Examples of courses acceptable toward the one unit: Art I, II, III and IV, sculpture, design, drawing, painting, theater, oral interpretation, dance, dramatics, band and any other instrumental music, chorus, and any other vocal music courses and art, music or theater appreciation courses.

Electives

Specified Core Electives

At least three core electives from foreign language (two units of one foreign language are strongly recommended) and/or combinations from two or more of the following course areas: English, mathematics, social studies, science and fine arts. Interpretive Notes: A computer-science course with a prerequisite of at least algebra I is permissible as mathematics elective. State and/or international history courses are permissible as social studies electives.

General Electives

At least four units sufficient to meet state and local graduation requirements, including physical education, health and personal finance. The courses should be selected and planned by the school, the student, and the student’s parents to develop the student’s aptitude and skills. Advanced career and technical courses that have been selected to support and strengthen the student’s personal plan of study may be used to fulfill this general elective requirement.

Each year, the Department of elementary and Secondary Education provides forms to all high school principals so they can certify the number of prospective graduates who have qualified for the College Preparatory Studies Certificate. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education provides the appropriate number of certificates at no cost to each school or school district.

For more information, contact:

Labels: Academics & Career Readiness

College Visitations (Seniors Only)

We recognize that it is necessary for students to visit college from time to time as they prepare to continue their education. Students who wish to be excused to visit colleges should apply for college days before making the college visit. A form for requesting college days may be obtained from the counselor. It must be signed by the parent, approved by the principal, and recorded in the high school office prior to taking the visit. Days approved for college visitation will be exempt from the four day absence limit.

Labels: Academics & Career Readiness

Computer Use Policy

The Couch R-1 School District's technology exists for the purpose of enhancing the educational opportunities and achievement of district students. Research shows that students who have access to technology improve achievement. In addition, technology assists with the professional enrichment of the staff and increases engagement of students' families and other patrons of the district, all of which positively impact student achievement. The district will periodically conduct a technology census to ensure that instructional resources and equipment that support and extend the curriculum are readily available to teachers and students. Board approved technology policies are EHB and EHBA and can be found online at the Couch R-1 website.

Beginning in the 2021-2022 school year high school students will receive a Chromebook. More information about student Chromebooks, including this handbook, can be found at the school’s website: couch.k12.mo.us

Technology Usage Policy

The purpose of this policy is to facilitate access to district technology and to create a safe environment in which to use that technology. Because technology changes rapidly and employees and students need immediate guidance, the superintendent or designee is directed to create procedures to implement this policy and to regularly review those procedures to ensure they are current.

Definitions

For the purposes of this policy and related procedures and forms, the following terms are defined:

Technology Resources

Technologies, devices and services used to access, process, store or communicate information. This definition includes, but is not limited to: computers; modems; printers; scanners; fax machines and transmissions; telephonic equipment; mobile phones; audio-visual equipment; Internet; electronic mail (e-mail); electronic communications devices and services, including wireless access; multimedia resources; hardware; and software. Technology resources may include technologies, devices and services provided to the district by a third party.

User

Any person who is permitted by the district to utilize any portion of the district’s technology resources including, but not limited to, students, employees, School Board members and agents of the school district. User Identification (ID): Any identifier that would allow a user access to the district’s technology resources or to any program including, but not limited to, e-mail and Internet access.

Password

A unique word, phrase or combination of alphabetic, numeric and nonalphanumeric characters used to authenticate a user ID as belonging to a user.

Authorized Users

The district's technology resources may be used by authorized students, employees, School Board members and other persons approved by the superintendent or designee, such as consultants, legal counsel and independent contractors. All users must agree to follow the district’s policies and procedures and sign or electronically consent to the district's User Agreement prior to accessing or using district technology resources, unless excused by the superintendent or designee. Use of the district’s technology resources is a privilege, not a right. No potential user will be given an ID, password or other access to district technology if he or she is considered a security risk by the superintendent or designee.

User Privacy

A user does not have a legal expectation of privacy in the user's electronic communications or other activities involving the district’s technology resources including, but not limited to, voice mail, telecommunications, e-mail and access to the Internet or network drives. By using the district's network and technology resources, all users are consenting to having their electronic communications and all other use monitored by the district. A user ID with email access will only be provided to authorized users on condition that the user consents to interception of or access to all communications accessed, sent, received or stored using district technology. Electronic communications, downloaded material and all data stored on the district’s technology resources, including files deleted from a user’s account, may be intercepted, accessed, monitored or searched by district administrators or their designees at any time in the regular course of business. Such access may include, but is not limited to, verifying that users are complying with district policies and rules and investigating potential misconduct. Any such search, access or interception shall comply with all applicable laws. Users are required to return district technology resources to the district upon demand including, but not limited to, mobile phones, laptops and tablets.

Technology Safety

To protect district technology, employees must have approval from the district’s technology director before personal cell phones or computers can be synchronized with the district’s network.

Technology Administration

The Board directs the superintendent or designee to assign trained personnel to maintain the district’s technology in a manner that will protect the district from liability and will protect confidential student and employee information retained on or accessible through district technology resources. Administrators of district technology resources may suspend access to and/or availability of the district’s technology resources to diagnose and investigate network problems or potential violations of the law or district policies and procedures. All district technology resources are considered district property. The district may remove, change or exchange hardware or other technology between buildings, classrooms or users at any time without prior notice. Authorized district personnel may install or remove programs or information, install equipment, upgrade any system or enter any system at any time.

Content Filtering and Monitoring

The district will monitor the online activities of minors and operate a technology protection measure (“content filter”) on the network and all district technology with Internet access, as required by law. In accordance with law, the content filter will be used to protect against access to visual depictions that are obscene or harmful to minors or are child pornography. Content filters are not foolproof, and the district cannot guarantee that users will never be able to access offensive materials using district equipment. Evading or disabling, or attempting to evade or disable, a content filter installed by the district is prohibited. The superintendent, designee or the district's technology administrator may fully or partially disable the district's content filter to enable access for an adult for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. In making decisions to fully or partially disable the district's content filter, the administrator shall consider whether the use will serve a legitimate educational purpose or otherwise benefit the district.

Online Safety, Security and Confidentiality

In addition to the use of a content filter, the district will take measures to prevent minors from using district technology to access inappropriate matter or materials harmful to minors on the Internet. Such measures shall include, but are not limited to, supervising and monitoring student technology use, careful planning when using technology in the curriculum, and instruction on appropriate materials. The superintendent, designee and/or the district's technology administrator will develop procedures to provide users guidance on which materials and uses are inappropriate, including network etiquette guidelines. All minor students will be instructed on safety and security issues, including instruction on the dangers of sharing personal information about themselves or others when using email, social media, chat rooms or other forms of direct electronic communication. Instruction will also address cyberbullying awareness and response and appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms. This instruction will occur in the district's computer courses, courses in which students are introduced to the computer and the Internet, or courses that use the Internet in instruction. Students are required to follow all district rules when using district technology resources and are prohibited from sharing personal information online unless authorized by the district.

All district employees must abide by state and federal law and Board policies and procedures when using district technology resources to communicate information about personally identifiable students to prevent unlawful disclosure of student information or records. All users are prohibited from using district technology to gain unauthorized access to a technology system or information; connect to other systems in evasion of the physical limitations of the remote system; copy district files without authorization; interfere with the ability of others to utilize technology; secure a higher level of privilege without authorization; introduce computer viruses, hacking tools, or other disruptive/destructive programs onto district technology; or evade or disable a content filter.

Closed Forum

The district’s technology resources are not a public forum for expression of any kind and are to be considered a closed forum to the extent allowed by law. The district’s web page will provide information about the school district, but will not be used as an open forum. All expressive activities involving district technology resources that students, parents/guardians and members of the public might reasonably perceive to bear the imprimatur of the district and that are designed to impart particular knowledge or skills to student participants and audiences are considered curricular publications. All curricular publications are subject to reasonable prior restraint, editing and deletion on behalf of the school district for legitimate pedagogical reasons. All other expressive activities involving the district’s technology are subject to reasonable prior restraint and subject matter restrictions as allowed by law and Board policies.

Records Retention

Trained personnel shall establish a retention schedule for the regular archiving or deletion of data stored on district technology resources. The retention schedule must comply with the Public School District Records Retention Manual as well as the General Records Retention Manual published by the Missouri Secretary of State. In the case of pending or threatened litigation, the district's attorney will issue a litigation hold directive to the superintendent or designee. The litigation hold directive will override any records retention schedule that may have otherwise called for the transfer, disposal or destruction of relevant documents until the hold has been lifted by the district's attorney. E-mail and other technology accounts of separated employees that have been placed on a litigation hold will be maintained by the district's information technology department until the hold is released. No employee who has been so notified of a litigation hold may alter or delete any electronic record that falls within the scope of the hold. Violation of the hold may subject the individual to disciplinary actions, up to and including termination of employment, as well as personal liability for civil and/or criminal sanctions by the courts or law enforcement agencies.

Violations of Technology Usage Policies and Procedures

Use of technology resources in a disruptive, inappropriate or illegal manner impairs the district’s mission, squanders resources and shall not be tolerated. Therefore, a consistently high level of personal responsibility is expected of all users granted access to the district’s technology resources. Any violation of district policies or procedures regarding technology usage may result in temporary, long-term or permanent suspension of user privileges. User privileges may be suspended pending investigation into the use of the district’s technology resources. Employees may be disciplined or terminated, and students suspended or expelled, for violating the district’s technology policies and procedures. Any attempted violation of the district's technology policies or procedures, regardless of the success or failure of the attempt, may result in the same discipline or suspension of privileges as that of an actual violation. The district will cooperate with law enforcement in investigating any unlawful use of the district's technology resources.

Damages

All damages incurred by the district due to a user's intentional or negligent misuse of the district's technology resources, including loss of property and staff time, will be charged to the user. District administrators have the authority to sign any criminal complaint regarding damage to district technology.

No Warranty/No Endorsement

The district makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the services, products or access it provides. The district's technology resources are available on an "as is, as available" basis. The district is not responsible for loss of data, delays, non-deliveries, misdeliveries or service interruptions. The district does not endorse the content nor guarantee the accuracy or quality of information obtained using the district's technology resources.

Labels: Student Policies