Introduction
    This handbook is intended to help the students of Quemado High School understand policies and procedures with which their school is operated.  It should help you plan a sound and well-rounded program.
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Pride  
    Quemado High School students are proud of their school.  Because of this intense pride, we work hard to maintain our school property.  We have great respect for ourselves and our schools and encourage proper respect from others.  We're proud to be "Eagles"!
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Academic Program
    QHS includes grades 7-12, although grades 7-8 are sometimes considered the “junior high.”  The school is operated on a four-day week, with seven periods per day.  The school year is 146 days long.  Credits toward promotion and graduation are earned by passing semester courses.  Each semester is divided into two grading periods.

The four-day week is a special privilege allowed by the New Mexico Department of Education and it can only be continued if student achievement remains high.  Consequently, all students have a responsibility to take academic matters seriously.
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Admission
    A student may enter QHS by promotion from elementary school or by transfer from an appropriate program.  Students entering for the first time should report to the Principal's Office.  Paperwork required for admission include birth certificate, immunization record, and social security card (or number).  Immunization requirements of the State Health Department must be met before a student can be admitted to school.  (See policy on Open Enrollment.)
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Attendance
Regular attendance at school is required of all students.  Parents will be notified when a student has missed three days and again at five days.  Students missing more than seven days in one semester must meet with parents and the administration to determine extenuating circumstances and/or consequences of chronic absenteeism.  If the student misses the meeting or the administration does not find reasonable justification for these absences the student will be placed on academic probation and won't be allowed to participate in extracurricular activities.

An absence may be considered excused when written documentation from parents has been received and approved by the administration.

Students will be allowed the number of days they missed plus one to make up their work.  Any make-up work submitted after that will be at the discretion of each teacher.  Students who do not make up their work on time will not receive full credit for that work, if any credit at all.

Effort should be made to obtain make-up work from the teacher before the absence.  Any student who misses for disciplinary reasons will receive zeros for any assignments graded during the time missed and those days will count toward the total absences.

Classes missed by students for school-sponsored extra-curricular activities cannot be in excess of ten days per semester.  In cases of participation in state or national competitions, it may be necessary to obtain from the state superintendent a waiver relating to the number of absences.
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Truancy
A student will be considered truant if they have accumulated five unexcused absences within a twenty-day period.
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Tardies
    Teachers will determine if tardies to class are excused or unexcused.  Three unexcused tardies equal one absence.  An unexcused tardy of more than five minutes to a class will be considered an absence.  Teachers will notify students when absences are assigned for these reasons.  An abnormal number of absences will normally result in lower grading period/semester grades.
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Check-in and Check-out
    Students who arrive late must first report to the school office to sign in.  Students who leave early must go to the school office to sign out.
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Bell Schedules

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Notification of Delayed Schedule
    On days of inclement weather, students will be contacted by teacher or staff as to school status.  There is a "phone tree" system and each student should make sure his/her correct phone number is on file in the office.  If a phone is not available to the student, then the student should listen to KOB radio where school status will be announced.
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Junior High Program
    The Junior High program (grades 7-8) consists of the following courses

    A seventh or eighth grade student must pass all required subjects and master seventy percent of the essential competencies of those subjects to gain promotion to the next grade.  The required subjects are English, math, science, social studies and physical education.  A passing grade will be a average of the two semester grades and must be a 70 or above.

  If the student has not mastered 70% of the essential competencies or failed any required subjects in spite of remediation opportunities, teacher-parent conferences will be held in a timely manner and/or a referral to the SAT team will be made. 
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High School Program
    Requirements for graduation from Quemado High School are 24 credits in grades nine through twelve.  The 24 credits must be earned as follows:

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Credits Earned
    Credits for all work is earned on a semester basis.  One-half unit is awarded for each semester course passed.  One full credit is awarded for passing any course meeting daily for the entire year.  If one semester is failed, you may earn half credit for passing the other semester.  Under certain circumstances, one-quarter credit may be granted with administrative approval.
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Class Status
    Students are classified according to the following plan:

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Special Credits
    Credits earned in any way other than the regular school program must meet with state regulations.  This applies to any correspondence or home study courses.  All such courses and credits must be approved by the administration.
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Early Graduation
    Early graduation of students may be accomplished only if it is the result of an approved program that takes into consideration the student's academic capabilities, maturity, motives, and faculty recommendation.  These considerations are made after a student has completed 17 credits and their junior year of high school.

    Early graduation by means of excessive term loads, summer session credits, correspondence courses, and the like will not be allowed unless planned with the counselor and approved in advance by the administration.
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Alternative Programs
    Senior options, including independent study, study in another institution, and work or volunteer service on a regular basis will be permitted with administrative approval.  Eligible students must be seniors who are in the process of earning the credits needed for graduation and who have additional school periods not needed to accumulate credits.

    A written description of the proposed activity must be prepared by the counselor and presented to the administration.  Verification of continued participation in the approved activity will be required at least quarterly.  Lack of verification or misuse of this privilege will result in reinstatement in the regular program.  Students must meet NMAA standards to maintain eligibility for activities.
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Exams Necessary for High School Graduation
    All students graduating from a public high school in New Mexico must take the State High School Competency Examination, which measures student acquisition of essential competencies.  Successful completion of this exam is required to receive a high school diploma.  the exam is given during the second semester of the sophomore year.  Retesting is available for those students who do not pass the exam.  The exam consists of an objective test and a writing assessment.
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Grading Scale
    Grades are reported to students and parents by the following system

High school students must receive a grade of 70% or better in a class (semester grades) in order to advance to a higher level class.  Example:  English I students must maintain grades of 70% or better in order to take English II, Algebra I students must make a 70% or better to be eligible to take Geometry or Algebra II.

Students who receive grades of 60%-69% averaged at the end of the school year must have a mandatory meeting with the administration and parents before the next school year to develop an academic improvement plan for the following school year.

Students who do not turn assignments in on the due date will be given a zero.  Due dates for assignments are firm and students are expected to turn work in when it is due.

Students who receive grades below 60% will not receive credit for the course and will have to retake the course if it is a required class.
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Friday School
  Friday school will be offered to students who are falling behind in classes and need a little extra support.  Times will be announced in the bulletin each week.  Friday school may be mandated for some students for discipline reasons as well.
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Online and Honors Courses
  Online courses will be offered to students who are juniors and seniors or to sophomores with special permission from the administration.  Students who enroll in online or WebCT courses will be required to sign a contract that details the student responsibilities for these courses.

  Pre-calculus, statistics, calculus, chemistry, physics and the specified English Honors classes are automatically graded using the Honors grading scale of 5.0 for A, 4.0 for B, etc.  A student who earns less than a “B” in an Honors course will not be allowed to enroll in a subsequent Honors course.

  Juniors must have taken 10^th grade English prep class and have earned a 90% or better in order to enroll in 11gh Honors English.  Students must have completed Algebra II with a grade of B or better before they can enroll in Chemistry or Physics.  World History, Government/Economics, and Biology II may be contracted for Honors credit.

  Students must be enrolled in Honors English in conjunction with any other honors class in order to earn or contract for honors credit in these classes, with the exception of pre-calculus, calculus, or statistics.

  Students must remain in the honors class for a minimum of one semester and must maintain a “B” average in order to continue to earn Honors credit for the class.

  If a junior or senior student enrolls in a class that cannot be offered because fewer than four students enrolled in the class, the student may then take an equivalent Advanced Placement course online for the honors credit.

  Transfer students who are juniors or seniors may enroll in Honors English courses but must maintain the “B” or better GPA and must remain in Honors for a minimum of one semester.
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Valedictorian and Salutatorian
    Each senior class will have identified a valedictorian (highest grade point average for the first seven semesters of high school) and salutatorian (second highest grade point average for the first seven semesters of high school).  In the case of a tie for salutatorian, there well be co-salutatorians.  To be eligible for these honors, a student must have been enrolled in QHS for at least two semesters of his/her first seven semesters of high school and have a minimum G.P.A. of 3.0.  Classes which award only Pass/Fail credits do not count toward these honors.
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Report Cards
    Report cards are issued four times a year.  Parents should expect reports on the following dates: October 24, 2007, January 9, 2008, March 12, 2008, and May 28, 2008.  Parents are not required to sign or return report cards, but they are encouraged to contact the school anytime they have questions regarding grades.  Parent/teacher conferences are encouraged.  Parent/teacher/student conferences are scheduled for September 19, 2007, November 28, 2007, February 6, 2008, and April 16, 2008.  Mandatory conferences will be scheduled for any student who has less than a 70% in a class.

    Because the time between reports is lengthy, progress/deficiency reports are issued every 4-1/2 weeks, or more often is the teacher deems necessary.
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Honor Roll
    A student must be enrolled in at least six classes to be named to the Honor Roll.  A student qualifies for the Superior Honor Roll when he/she earns a 3.75 GPA or higher.  A student qualifies for the Regular Honor Roll if he/she earns a GPA between 3.25 and 3.74.
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Academic Letters
    Students may earn academic letters by maintaining the following cumulative GPA's

Academic letters are not awarded to freshman until after final grades are recorded for the freshman year.
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Guidance Program
    The school provides a guidance counselor to assist students with academic or other problems.  The purpose of the guidance program is to help each individual student achieve his highest growth mentally, emotionally and socially.  We try to do this in several ways:

1. Helping the new student feel at home in our school with new teachers, friends, and settings
2. Individual conferences whenever a student, teacher, or the counselor deems it necessary
3. A testing program designed to help the student learn as much as possible about his capabilities
4. The counselor welcomes the opportunity to talk things over with any student, parent, or teacher.

    Information on grades, course credits, and graduation requirements is available from the counselor.  The counselor also helps students make realistic career plans for their lives after high school.  It is recommended that you make an appointment to see the counselor unless an emergency exists.  All students are encouraged to confer with the counselor.
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Choosing and Dropping Classes
    At the start of each semester, a student is given a choice of classes to be taken.  If a change of schedule is necessary, contact the counselor for consideration.  The counselor will complete a drop/add slip and have it signed by the teacher whose class you wish to drop and the teacher whose class you wish to add.  No changes will be made after four days of school in a given semester.  All class changes must be approved by the administration.
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Married or Pregnant Students
    Married students and/or pregnant girls, married or unmarried, who elect to remain in the regular school program shall no be involuntarily excluded from any part of the regular school program if reasonable safeguards are provided both for the school and student's best interests.  Marriage or pregnancy does not automatically entitle students to special arrangements.  All cases will be handled confidentially and on an individual basis.  Consideration is to be shown so the best possible arrangements can be made regarding credits and graduation.  No special or unusual arrangements may be made unless determined necessary by the staff and administration.  Pregnant students are required to have written permission from their parent(s)/guardian(s) to participate in contact sports.  There will be no exceptions to this requirement.
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Student Records
    Accurate cumulative records are maintained for every student enrolled in the school.  Only authorized school personnel, parents, students, or legal guardians may view these records without a subpoena or the written permission of the student or his or her parents, per the Buckley Amendment.
    Written parental objection to the accuracy or authenticity of data recorded in the cumulative records shall become part of the record upon request by the parents.
    School officials will forward transcripts from the cumulative records upon the request of the parents, legal guardians, students, ex-students and accredited educational institutions.  Before this can be done, however, the student must have officially checked out of school, paid all money due, turned in all books, and have his or her parents complete a "record release" form.
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Daily Bulletin
    A daily bulletin will be distributed to each class during the first part of the day.  Teachers should read the bulletin to the class and then post it in their room.  The office will also post copies on the bulletin boards in the hallway.  Students are encouraged to listen as the bulletin is read, and to refer to the posted copies if they have questions.
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Activities
    Students benefit in many ways from their experiences in activities outside the regular classroom.  Consequently, we hope that you take an active part in the clubs, organizations and sports that contribute so much to the life of the school and to your overall development as a person.
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Eligibility
    You must establish and maintain "eligibility" in order to represent QHS in vocational organizations, sports, as an elected member of student government, as a nominee for special honors, i.e., Homecoming Queen, or as a holder of a class office.

    New Mexico Activities Association eligibility: A student shall have passed a minimum of four classes, not failed more than one, and had a grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or better for the immediate previous grading period, or cumulatively, beginning with and including the second semester of grade eight.  The cumulative provision may only be applied at the beginning of a semester and only semester grades are to be used.

    During the current semester, the student must pass a minimum of four classes, not fail more than one class, and maintain a GPA of 2.0 or better per grading period during the semester.  (GPA is based upon a 4.0 scale.)

    Seniors participating in an alternative program are required to attend a minimum of four classes per day and must have a passing average in all their classes.

    QHS conducts a weekly eligibility check each Tuesday during any or all sports seasons.
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Student Government
    QHS has an elected and representative student government (Student Council) which shares in the formation of general school policies and deals with other matters of student concern.
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Class Offices
    Each class may elect four officers (President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer) and one Student Council Representative.  Elections will take place at the beginning of the school year.  All candidates must be academically eligible at the time of election.  Votes may be takes by a show of hands or by a secret ballot as determined by the sponsor.  The candidate with the most votes is the winner.

    All officers serve until the next election unless they withdraw from school.  Officers may be removed from office only by the following procedures:

• a recall petition stating specific grievances and signed by 2/3 of the class to the sponsor
• the sponsor will call a meeting of the entire class to discuss the situation
• if the situation cannot be satisfactorily resolved at that meeting the administration will be notifies, and he or she will decide whether or not to declare the office vacant and to sanction a new election.

Or, the administration may, for good cause, remove a student from office and sanction a new election.  Recall or removal from office are considered serious, and such steps will be taken only when necessary.
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Student Council
    This organization is designed to represent the entire student body through its membership.  The Council aids in the administration of the school, promotes general activities, and organizes special events during the school year.

    Your Student Council provides for student activities, serves as a training experience to both leaders and followers, promotes the common good, gives students a share in the management of the school, develops high ideals of personal conduct, acts as a clearing house for student activities, seeks to interest students in school affairs and helps solve problems that may arise.  Members of the Council are your representatives and have direct access to the school administration.

    The officers and their duties are as follows:

    Officers are chosen in a school-wide election by students in grades 7 -12 near the end of each school year.  All candidates must be eligible at the time of election.  The President must be a Junior at the time of the election; other officers must be in grades 9 - 11 at the time of the election.  The candidate receiving the highest number of votes will be declared the winner.

    Each class and club may also choose a representative.  This selection will take place at the beginning of the school year.
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Class and Club Meetings
    Class and club meeting will normally be held during the lunch period.  The administration must approve any meeting scheduled outside the lunch period.
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Vocational Clubs
    Students who take vocational classes are encouraged to become active members of the student organization, the Future Farmers of America (FFA).
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Participation in Physical Education Classes
Quemado School is committed to developing students who are strong in both mind and body.  Physical Education is a required class at both the 7^th and 8^th grade and high school levels.  If a student is enrolled in a PE course, it is expected that the student will dress out and participate in the class.  A student will only be excused from participating if he/she has a note from a doctor explaining why he/she is unable to participate and a date of release from the excuse.
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Athletics
    The purpose of high school athletics is both educational and recreational.  The athletic program should encourage participation by as many students as possible and should be carried out with the students' interest as first consideration.

    A well-organized and well-run sports program is a potent factor in school morale and important for good school-community relations.  However, either too great an emphasis on winning games or too consistent a record of losing them is harmful to the development of healthy attitudes.
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Interscholastic Sports
    QHS competes as a Class A school in the following sports, all of which are sanctioned by the NMAA:

    Participation is limited to eligible students in grades 8 - 12.  Junior high students may also compete in sports at the junior high level.
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Athletic Policies
    The athletic program is an integral part of the curriculum and comes under the authority of the administration to the same degree as do all other phases of the curriculum.

    No student may start practice for any athletic team until he or she has been examined and approved by a medical doctor and until written consent has been obtained from the parents.

    Insurance against injury or accidents is available to all students engaging in interscholastic activities.  mandatory participation in the school insurance program is not required.  However, proof of insurance which will cover the cost of treatment resulting from any injury incurred while taking part in interscholastic sports will be required.

    An attempt will be made to have trained personnel available to treat any athletic injury incurred during participation in an interscholastic sport.

    Terms and conditions for participating on athletic teams will be established by the coaches, athletic director, and the principal.

    Proper behavior and conduct are required of all students while on school sponsored trips.

    Pregnant students are required to have written permission from their parents/guardians to participate in contact sports.  There will be no exceptions to this requirement.

    The entrance requirements for enrollment in athletics class are

• a signed athletic agreement by the fourth day of class
• intentions of participating in the athletic program
• a signed consent to treatment and insurance documentation
• a current physical examination form prior to practicing.

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Athletic Letters
    Students can earn athletic letters by fulfilling the requirements set by the coaches.  After earning a letter, students may earn pins or service pars for additional participation.
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Activity Sponsors
    All student activities take place under the direction of an adult sponsor appointed by the administration.  Class sponsors usually join a class in the 7th grade and continue with it until graduation.

    Sponsors are to provide guidance, not do the students' work for them.  They supervise activities and monitor all financial affairs of the group.  Students must

• keep their sponsors informed at all times
• never act without the sponsor's approval
• accept the sponsor as the final authority in all group matters

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Financial Responsibility
    Each club, class or organization is required to adhere to the following procedures:

• all monies collected for any function must be deposited at least weekly in the office
• a receipt must always be issued for any money collected by a student or a sponsor for a group activity
• no purchases can be made from activity funds without a signed purchase order
• all expenditures must be documented by signed invoices

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Sales and Fundraisers
    No group may sell anything or conduct fundraising activities without the approval of the Student Council and of their sponsor and the principal.  Classes and clubs will each have one month designated as their month for raising funds.  Please see the class or club sponsor for additional information.
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Special Events
    QHS Homecoming is celebrated annually.  Activities include home sports contests and a dance at which a Homecoming Queen is crowned.  Each class in grades 9 - 12 selects a candidate from its ranks; the Seniors may select two candidates if they wish.  Candidates must be participants in sports, including cheerleading and manager.  The date for Homecoming and the method of electing the Queen are chosen annually by the Student Council.  Homecoming attire must follow dress code guidelines

    Prom is held annually in the spring.  The Student Council is responsible for arranging this event.

    Commencement (graduation) takes place at the end of the school year.  Diplomas and awards are presented to graduating seniors.
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Special Awards
    Each year, the faculty chooses one Junior boy and one Junior girl to represent QHS at Boys' and Girls' State events during the summer.  Students are selected on the basis of leadership, character, academic achievement, and their ability to represent the school.

    The Mike Baca Memorial Award is presented annually in memory of Mike Baca, Class of 1978.  The outstanding male and female athlete are chosen by the coaching staff on the basis of effort, character and leadership.  The awards will usually, but not necessarily, be given to Seniors.
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QHS Hall of Fame
    The school honors students who have excelled in athletic, club and other competitions and have thus brought recognition and acclaim to QHS.  There are different categories for inclusion in the Hall of Fame

• Teams that win state trophies in any varsity sport
• Individuals who place in the State track meet
• Individuals who are selected for first or second team all-state honors in any varsity sport
• Individuals who score 1000 points in varsity basketball competition
• Groups or individuals who have excelled in competition as a representative of QHS.  Some examples include students who earn plaques for at state competition, county spelling bee winners, students who qualify for National High School Rodeo competition.

    Students are nominated for inclusion in the Hall of Fame by the faculty.  Final determination is made by the administration.
    The school district also honors its varsity teams achieving excellence in athletic endeavors by noting that achievement on a banner in the Eagle Gymnasium.  Teams placing first or second in regional play, and/or competing at the state semi-final or final levels, will be so recognized, as will district champions in basketball, track or volleyball.
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Discipline
    One of the most important lessons education should teach is discipline.  While it does not appear as a subject, it underlies the whole educational structure.  It is the training that develops self-control, orderliness, and efficiency.  It is the key to good conduct and proper consideration for other people.  Parents should remember that when you bring your child to an extra-curricular activity as a spectator, you are in charge of his or her behavior.  We expect all school rules to apply during activities.
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Discipline Policy
    Immediate Removal: Regardless of whatever disciplinary measures may also be considered appropriate or whatever actions are implemented, persons whose presence poses a danger to others or to property or who poses a threat of disrupting the educational process many be immediately removed from school or from any school-sponsored activity.

    Disciplinary Options: Teachers and administrators will judge the severity of student infractions and impose appropriate disciplinary measures.

    Short-Term Suspension: A short-term suspension means a suspension of four days or less.  When it is anticipated that a student will be subject to short-term suspension, the student will be given oral or written notice of the charges against him or her, and if the student denies the charges, an explanation of the evidence the administration has available will be presented to the student.  The student will have the opportunity to give his or her side of the story, subject to the following guidelines:

1. There need be no delay between the time "notice" is given and the time of the informal hearing with the administration.
2. The student must first be told what he or she is accused of doing and what the basis of the accusation is.
3. Parents or guardians shall be given oral or written notice of the charges against the student and their possible consequences as soon as practical, but in no event later than the beginning of the first full day of suspension.
4. Any student under the age of 18 years will not be sent home during the school day unless the parent or guardian has been notified of the suspension.

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   Long-Term Suspension or Expulsion: The administration may temporarily suspend while the procedures for a long-term suspension are being put into effect.  Long-term suspension is defined as one or more than four days and may last until the end of the school year.  Any suspension keeps a student from attending any school function or being on school-owned property.

    In the event that such action is contemplated, the following procedures will be adhered to:

1. Not less than five days prior to the date of the contemplated action, the superintendent shall cause written notice of such proposed action to be delivered to the student and his or her parent or guardian.  Such delivery may be by mail or by personal delivery.  If mail, delivery is deemed completed at such time as the notice is deposited in the mail addressed to the last know address of the student or his parent or guardian.
2. In the event of a determination that an emergency exists necessitating a shorter period of notice, the period of notice may be shortened provided that the student or his parent or guardian have actual notice of the hearing prior to the time it is held.
3. The notice shall contain: a) a statement of the basic reasons alleged for the contemplated action; b) a statement that the hearing on the contemplated action will be held is requested by the student or his parent or guardian within five days after the date of the notice; c) a statement of the date, time and place of the hearing in the event one is requested; d) a statement that the student may be present at the hearing and hear all information against him or her; that he or she will have an opportunity to present such information as is relevant; and that he or she may be accompanied and represented by a parent or guardian and an attorney; e) a statement that failure to participate in such a hearing constitutes a waiver of further rights in the matter.
4. The hearing shall be conducted by the superintendent.  The hearing may be conducted in open session or may be closed except to those individuals deemed advisable but including in all cases the student, his or her parents or guardians or attorney.  Such individuals who may have pertinent information shall be admitted to a closed hearing to the extent necessary to provide such information.  Testimony and information shall be presented under oath; however, technical rules of evidence shall not be applicable, and the hearing officer may consider and give appropriate weight to such information or evidence he or she deems appropriate.  The student or his representative may question individuals presenting information.  A sufficient record of the proceeds shall be kept so as to enable a transcript to be prepared in the event either party so requests.  Preparation of the transcript shall be at the expense of the requesting party.
5. A written decision will be made within five days of the hearing.
6. The student may, within ten days after the decision of the superintendent, appeal the decision to the Board.  Such hearing will occur in a Board meeting, at which a closed session may be used.  The final decision will be made in public session.
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Search and Seizure
Any certified school employee or school bus driver may conduct a search of a student's person or school-assigned property if he or she has reasonable cause to suspect that a crime is being committed or if he or she has reasonable cause to believe that a search is necessary in the aid of maintaining school discipline.

    General searches of school property, including lockers or school buses may be conducted at any time.

    Searches of a student's person or vehicle on school property will be conducted only if a certified employee or school bus driver personally notices or is suspicious of arrangement of a student's clothing, possessions, or actions which give reasonable cause to believe that a crime or breach of the discipline code is being committed by the student.

    Searches of a student's person may be conducted by a certified school employee only in the presence of another certified school employee; searches of a student's person may be conducted only by a certified school employee of the student's same sex.
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Use of Dogs in Search Procedures
    Dogs will be involved in searches only upon authorization by the Superintendent.
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Rights and Responsibilities
    Students at QHS have certain rights that are guaranteed to all citizens.  However, these rights are not absolute.  One primary limitation is that the exercise of individual rights terminates when it infringes upon the rights of another.

    The Board has adopted the following policies regarding student rights:

1. No student shall be subjected to any prejudicial treatment nor denied any access to a public education because of race, ethnicity, sex, religion, political belief or handicap.
2. Students have the right to free speech and expression so long as it does not infringe upon the rights of others.
3. School officials have the responsibility for achieving an atmosphere free from disruptions that will interfere with or infringe upon the operation of the school or the work of the students.

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Regulated Behavior
Weapons or Dangerous Chemicals
    Any student who brings to school or to a school-sponsored activity or possesses any type of deadly weapon, dangerous chemicals, or any item considered to be detrimental to the welfare and safety on any individual will be immediately suspended.  A parent conference shall be required before the student may return to school.  In addition, a report may be filed with the local police and formal charges filed with the courts.
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Alcoholic Beverages and Narcotics
    In accordance with State Board of Education Regulation 81-3, ISD#2 prohibits students from the use, possession, sale or transportation of alcohol and/or illegal drugs on school property, in school buildings, or at school sponsored and/ or school related activities and athletics.  For this policy, illegal drugs are defined as controlled substances, prescription drugs used or possessed without a prescription, solvents used for intoxication and those substances possessed, sold, and/or used that are represented to be controlled or illegal substances as defined by Controlled Substance Act, P.L. 91-513, Schedules 1 - 5.  Additionally, Quemado-Datil Schools prohibit students from selling or giving away alcohol and/or illegal drugs and from possessing, selling, giving away and/or using drug paraphernalia on school property, within school buildings, or at school-sponsored activities and/or school-related activities and athletics.
    The Superintendent or his designee has the authority to suspend or expel on a ling-term basis students who, after a notice and hearing, have been found by a preponderance of the evidence to be in violation of this policy or state laws.  (Refer to Quemado Board Policy Manual 6.08, page 6-3, and State Board of Education Regulation 81-3.)
    Due process rights for students and parents are guaranteed under Quemado ISD#2 Policy and State Board of Education Regulation 81-3.  Students will be afforded the opportunity to participate in the district-wide student counseling program at their local school.  This option will be exercised before proceeding to long-term suspension and expulsion.  School officials shall follow procedures in Quemado ISD#2 Policy Manual 6.08, page 6-3, on long-term suspension and expulsion, as defined by State Board of Education Regulation 81-3.  These policies state that long-term suspension and expulsion decisions may be appealed to the Superintendent.  Expulsion is viewed as a punishment of last resort and will require formal Board action
    The legal responsibility of a school employee is: "A school employee who knows or in good faith suspects any student of using or abusing alcohol or drugs shall report such use or abuse pursuant to procedures established by the Quemado ISD#2 Board."
    All students shall receive a copy of this policy and procedures at the beginning of each school year.  New students upon enrolling in the school will be given a copy of this policy and procedure.
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Tobacco
    For safety as well as health reasons, the possession or use of tobacco in any form by students is prohibited on school grounds and inside any building or vehicle owned by the school district.  Any items related to the use of tobacco shall be confiscated.  Any damage caused by the use of tobacco shall be repaired or paid for by the student.  Offenses will lead to disciplinary action according to the Assertive Discipline policy and administrative decision.  Any person who violates this policy commits an unlawful act under the provisions of the Clean Air Act, Section 24-26, NMSA 1978.
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Disruptions and Demonstrations
    A few disruptive students can make it difficult for the majority to carry on their normal educational functions.  Therefore, the Responsible Thinking Process with reference to school or classroom disruptions, walkouts, or other negative forms of demonstrations will be adhered to.
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Fights
    Students who start or are involved in a fight on school grounds or at any school activity are subject to procedures of the District discipline policy.  The type and severity of the disciplinary action taken shall be determined by the circumstances and the student's past record.
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Assault, Menace or Intimidation
    Students who attack, assault, or intimidate any school employee will be reported to the administration.  The same is true for any student who attacks or assaults any other student or individual while on campus or at any school activity.  Any student involved in such behavior may be suspended, and a parent conference required before the student can return to school.
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Release of Students from School
    Only the administration has the authority to release students from school.  The administrator shall always make certain that the identity of the custodial parent or guardian is known before any student is released.  If the identity of a person requesting the release of a student is not known, then the administrator must require proof of identity and obtain permission from the parent or guardian before that student is released.  A student shall never be released to a stranger during school time.
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Police Questioning and Arrest of Students
    A student of ISD#2 while on school property may be questioned by a police officer only in the presence of an administrator or in the presence of the student's parent(s) or legal guardian.
    A student will be released in the custody of a police officer to be questioned at the police station only when the school has received permission from the student's parent or legal guardian.
    Where a law enforcement agency deems it necessary to question and/or arrest a student during school hours and if the principal or other administrators do not recognize the identity of the law enforcement officer, then the following procedure must be followed.  The principal should first require that the officer come to the principal's office.  That principal shall document the time, date, and name of the student(s), the name of the officer, including rank and badge number, and the agency of the law enforcement officer.  The principal should then contact the nearest office of this agency and verify the officer's identity, warrant, if applicable, and the necessity for questioning and/or arrest at school.  The principal shall obtain a copy of the arrest warrant, if applicable, and document the contact with the supervisory officer, and the justification for the questioning and/or arrest.  Then the principal should document the date and time of attempts made to contact parents or guardians to report all details and invite them to come to school.
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Disrespect Toward Employees
    Disrespect toward any school employees, including substitute teachers, will not be tolerated.  The District discipline policy will be followed.
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Profanity
    Students who speak, write, distribute, or possess profane, indecent or obscene language, literature, writing or pictures shall be subject to discipline according the the District discipline policy.
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Loitering
    Persons not in school due to disciplinary reasons or not enrolled in school will be considered to be trespassing if found on school property without valid a visitor's pass issued by the office.  If necessary, such persons will be referred to the police.
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Care of Campus Buildings and Grounds
    Students must take responsibility for the school grounds and building.  Any student vandalizing any school property in any way will be punished and subject to disciplinary action according to the District discipline policy.  Students may not sit on furniture improperly.  Parents will be notified and violators must pay for the damaged or destroyed items.
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Vandalism and Destruction of Property
    Our school buildings and equipment cost the taxpayers to construct, purchase and maintain.  Students who destroy or vandalize school property will be required to pay for losses or damages.  If you should happen to damage something by accident, you should report it to a teacher or the office immediately.  If students willfully destroy school property, the District discipline policy will be enforced.
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Dress Code
    The Board has the right at all times to regulate any student's dress that creates a problem or is a distraction to learning.  Dress and grooming have a definite bearing on attitude and behavior.  Learning how to dress within the bounds of propriety, decency, and social acceptability is part of each student's education.
    Clothes worn to school should be clean, in good taste, and appropriate for classroom attire.
    Any student not following the dress code will be subject to discipline in accordance with the district discipline policy.
    The following guidelines are for further clarification of the dress code for students attending Quemado Independent School District #2 schools.
1. Under shorts must not be exposed.
2. Oversized trousers must fit so that a student is able to walk with a normal gait and the length of the pants will not fall below the bottom of the shoe.
3. The bottom of the shirt should sit at or below the waistband of your pants, skirt, etc., so that it will not ride up to expose midriff and/or underwear when standing or sitting.
4. The neckline of your garment should not be lower than three inches below your collarbone.
5. Clothing will not recognize gang emblems or advocate or
    make reference to sex, tobacco, alcohol or drugs.
6. Skirts/dresses must measure no shorted than four inches above the knee.
7. Shorts must measure a four-inch inseam.
8. Prohibited manner of wearing clothing:
    a. Bare or exposed midriffs
    c. Spaghetti strap blouses, shirts or dresses
    d. Caps or hats worn inside in the school buildings
    e. Sunglasses without a doctor's prescription
    f. See-through blouses (without camisole)
    g. Shirts that expose chest or torso
6. For safety, footwear must be worn at all times and must be appropriate.  No slippers or house shoes are allowed
7. Any student wearing inappropriate clothing will receive one
    the following consequences:
    a. Wear appropriate clothing provided by the office, if
        available.  The inappropriate clothing will only be returned
        when a parent/guardian comes to the school and returns
        the replacement clothing.
    b. Have appropriate clothing brought to school.
    c. Be sent home with parental permission or remain isolated
        for the remainder of the day or be suspended.

*The above applies to all students, at all times during school hours and at school-sponsored events, if participating.

Prom and Homecoming and any other formal affair will allow spaghetti straps and strapless gowns that the neckline will be be lower than three inches from the top of the collarbone.  Backline may be cut down to the normal waistline.  Slits may not extend higher than 4-inches above the knee.
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Policy on Body Jewelry and Tattoos
    The Quemado Independent School District #2 Board of Education believes that adoption and enforcement of a strict policy on student appearance and dress can be a factor in improving student attitudes toward school and that positive changes in attitude can lead to improvements in school attendance, drop-out rates, and academic performance and avoid student conflict and confrontation.  The Board further discourages wearing of certain items of dress or jewelry for the following reasons:

1. To create an atmosphere conducive to learning and to minimize disruptions attributable to personal appearance, conduct, grooming, hygiene and attire.
2. To foster an attitude of respect for authority and to prepare students to enter the work place, where rules regarding dress, conduct and appearance are frequently encountered.
3. To ensure that the conduct and grooming of students who represent the district in school-sponsored, extra curricular and community activities create a favorable impression on the district and community.
4. To counter the disruptive effect and potential for interference with the educational mission of the school district which may result when aspects of student appearance or articles of dress represent gang membership, present violence, sexually explicit or obscene messages are inappropriate to wear at school under the local community standards or may incite confrontation or violent reactions.

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

1. Prohibits students attending school or school-sponsored activities from wear rings or jewelry in pieced location of a student's body other than the ears.  Male or female students may wear earrings or items of jewelry no larger than 1-1/2 inches in diameter and 4 inches in length in either or both ears.
2. Students shall not attend school or school-sponsored activities with tattoos on the skin exposed to public view.

Enforcement of this policy shall be in accordance with the student conduct code.
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Theft or Larceny
    Any students apprehended in the act of stealing or having stolen property in his or her possession may be reported to the police for legal action.  Other action by the school will be determined by the student's prior disciplinary record and by the seriousness of the offense.
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Lunch Program
    Students may participate in the school lunch program if they wish.  Forms for free and reduced price lunches are available in the school office.

   According to Section 204 of Public Law 108-265 of the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004, foods of minimal nutritional value are to be omitted during the school day.  This includes, but is not limited to, carbonated beverages, certain fruit drinks and ades, certain candies and chewing gum.

  Students who are not eating or who have finished eating may use the commons area.  If a student desires to eat at home, he/she must have prior written permission to do so from his/her parents/guardians and must sign out/in at the office.  They must also meet criteria as outlined under “Closed Campus”.

  Student behavior in the dining room should be based on courtesy and cleanliness.  This means leaving the area in the condition you would like to find it.  Students are to remain in the cafeteria until they have finished eating. 

No one will be dismissed from class early to go to lunch unless previous arrangements have been made with the Principal.
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Fire Drills
    Fire and emergency drill are help at irregular intervals throughout the school year.  Fire drills must be held one a week during the first month of school and once a month thereafter.  A series of three short bells will be given when the students should return to class.

    Remember these basic rules:

1. Check the instructions in each classroom (they are posted) indicating how to leave the building from that classroom in case of fire.
2. Walk.  No talking.  Move quickly and quietly to the designated area.  Remain there until dismissed.

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Textbooks
    All basic texts are loaned to the students for their use during the school year.  Textbooks are to be kept clean and handles carefully.  Students are encouraged to provide book covers.  Please be sure your name and grade are written on the book label in case the book is misplaced.  If a student loses or damages a book, he/she will be responsible for the cost of replacing the book.  Semester or final report cards will not be issued until the debt is paid.
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Student Vehicles
    Students may bring vehicles to school, but must have a parent permission form signed and on file in the office.  Once on school premises, vehicles will remain parked.  Vehicles may be taken during lunch period.  Vehicles are not permitted to taken during lunch period.  Vehicle registration, insurance and driver's license information must be on file.  Failure to comply will result in loss of privilege for the remainder of the school year.
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Lost and Found
    Lost and found items should be immediately taken to the school secretary for safe keeping.  If unclaimed by the rightful owner, lost and found items can be claimed by the person(s) finding the article at the end of the school year.  If articles are unclaimed, they will be disposed of.
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Closed Campus
    Students are not allowed to leave campus during the day without the permission of the administration.  Students must sign in and out at the office.  Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors who have earned the Honor Roll may leave campus at lunch, provided a document is on file signed by the student, parent and principal.  Students may not eat lunch at school and then leave campus.  There will be no exceptions.
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Dances
    No dance will be held at QHS unless the following provision is adhered to: Students MAY NOT leave the dance and return later.  Students must follow all school rules during dances.
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Bus Regulations
    The district provides bus transportation to and from school; this is a privilege and must be treated as such.  Remember that you are technically and legally still "on campus" while on the school bus; regular school rules apply.  The driver is responsible for your safety at all times and he/she must be obeyed.

    Students who come to school on the bus should return home on the bus unless they have a note from their parents signed by the superintendent or principal.  Only regularly scheduled bus students are to ride the school buses.  Bus students are to go immediately to the buses as soon as they are dismissed from school in the afternoon.

    The district discipline policy will be followed on the buses.
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Visitors
    Citizens of the district are invited and welcome to visit the school at any time.  Any citizen desiring to visit should check in at the office.  Student visitor's passes may be granted under certain conditions.  Under no circumstances will  permission be granted for wandering around campus.

    In the absence of specific permission from parents, students will not be allowed to see anyone other than parents or duly authorized persons such as employers.

    Unruly or discourteous conduct by any visitor will cause immediate cancellation of any pass, and the visitor will be asked to leave campus.  Anyone who does not comply will be subject to removal by the local police.
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Telephones
    School phones are to be used for school business only.  Students will not be called to the phone except in emergencies.  A pay phone is available and should be used.  Students may make calls during lunch, and before and after school only.  Students may not make phone calls during class time or between classes unless permission is given by school/office staff.  Students may not use school telephones except in cases of extreme emergency and then only with school/office staff permission.
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Cell Phones
Cell phones are not allowed in any class during the instructional day at Quemado Schools.  If a student brings a cell phone, it must remain in the locker during the school day with the exception of lunch time.  If a student is caught with a cell phone in class, it will be confiscated and held in the principal’s office until a parent or legal guardian comes to retrieve it.  If the phone is confiscated a second time, the phone will be kept in the principal’s office until the final day of school for that year.
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Lockers and Locks
    Locker will be assigned to all 7 - 12th grade students.  Combination locks will be issued to all 7 - 12th grade students for academic and athletic/PE lockers.  All students are responsible for their issued lock(s).  If locks are lost or damaged, a $10 fee per lock will be assessed.

    Personal locks are not allowed and will be removed by the administration.  The administration may search lockers to aid in maintaining and orderly and safe school.
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Academic Dishonesty Policy
    It is academically dishonest, and often illegal, to present someone else’s ideas or writing as your own.  You cannot use even short phrases or parts of sentences obtained from other sources unless you properly document those sources.

Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, dishonesty in quizzes, tests, or assignments (cheating); claiming credit for work not done or done by others (claiming you completed an assignment when you did not; turning in work that belongs to another student); hindering the academic work of other students (deleting or altering another students work in any way); and plagiarism.

Plagiarism is defined as representing someone else’s work as your own.  This includes, but is not necessarily limited to, submitting examinations, papers, or reports that have been prepared by someone else, copied from someone else (including books, encyclopedias, and websites), or downloaded from the internet, in part or in whole.  It also includes the use of quotations that are not explicitly documented and placed in quotations marks.

Plagiarism does not exist when adequate reference is made to the work of another when that work is included in your paper.  Adequate reference requires that the included material be quoted and explicitly referenced (either by a footnote or reference to a specific item in the bibliography or works cited page).  Although you may avoid plagiarism by adequate reference, a paper that contains large amounts of quoted or reference material will generally be graded poorly because it will not adequately demonstrate your own mastery of the material.

Academic dishonesty situations will be handled according to the district Assertive Discipline Plan.
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Halls
    Students should be in the halls only at the beginning and the close of school and while moving from one class to another unless they have special permission or special duties that require them to be there.  Students in the halls during class time must have passes.  Students are asked to be courteous at all times.  Running and shouting in the halls is never permitted.
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Assemblies
    At all times the students' behavior should be refined and courteous.  An indication of the cultural level of the school is the conduct of its student body at an assembly.  Whether guests are present or not, each student is personally responsible for the impression made by the school as a whole.  Unacceptable conduct would include whistling, uncalled for clapping, boisterousness, and talking during a program.  Textbooks and other materials are to be left in the classrooms or lockers.  Purses and billfolds are to be taken into the gym.  Discipline will follow the district discipline policy.
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Services
Library
  The library will be opened at 8:00 a.m. and remain open throughout the day.  Students are encouraged to use the library as much as possible.  From time to time, it may be desirable for a student to visit the library during class time to do research.  In such cases, the student should first get permission from their teacher and then, upon entering the library, inform the librarian about his/her particular need. 
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Computer Lab and Technology Use
  The computer lab will be available to classes and individual students throughout the school year.  Availability is based on

1. regularly scheduled classes
2. availability of supervision
3. student behavior

All technology use at QHS is a privilege and requires:

1. a student technology use fee ($5 per semester)
2. the Acceptable Use Policy initialed and signed by the student and parents/guardians and on file
3. following all school rules and all technology related rules

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Nurse
    A room is available for students who are ill and wish to lie down rather than sign out and go home.  A pass from a teacher is necessary and students will be marked absent from class and subject to all of the rules governing absences.  Students must see the nurse before they can leave campus to go home due to illness.

    If it becomes necessary for a student to take any form of medication at school, a signed note from a parent must be presented to the office.  All medication will be kept in and dispensed through the office or the nurse.
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School Insurance
    School insurance is available to all students.  A packet will be available for each student on the first day of classes.  Purchase of this insurance is optional.  Students involved in athletics must provide signed evidence that they are covered by adequate insurance if they choose not to purchase this package.
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Student Grievance Procedure

It is the policy of the Board to establish and maintain an environment that provides for the fair and equitable treatment of all individuals on its premises.  The District is committed to developing a school and working environment that is appropriate for an educational institution as well as one that strives for the safety and welfare of all.  Students, parents and staff members will all have the opportunity to initiate the grievance procedures set forth in this section should the need for such proceedings arise.  These procedures have been developed with the goal of providing a channel for the prompt resolution of grievances and/or complaints of discrimination against the school system.  Confidentiality will be respected to the greatest extent possible and the District will take corrective action following an investigation if doing so is determined to be appropriate.

PURPOSE:

 The purpose of this procedure is to develop equitable solutions to all grievances and/or discrimination allegations; the District will take a proactive stance and attempt to resolve disputes at the lowest possible level.  Potential students and staff members, all current students, staff members and parents of students attending Quemado Schools are hereby notified that the District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion or disability; it is required by Title VI, Tile IX and Section 504 that schools do not discriminate in such a manner.

DEFINITIONS: 

A.     Complainant – a student, parent or employee of the District who has submitted a grievance or complaint alleging some form of discrimination that is having an adverse and direct effect on that individual. 

B.     Respondent – a person who is undergoing an investigation as a result of a grievance or complaint filed against them that alleges inappropriate conduct. 

C.     Grievance/complaint – a written grievance or complaint alleging that a complainant has been and/or is adversely affected by any policy, procedure or practice that discriminates on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion or disability.  The same is true for any violations, misinterpretations or inequitable applications of Board policy or school rules when the complainant has been and/or is adversely affected by those rules because of his or her race, color, national origin, sex, religion or disability.  

D.     Day – a regular school day; the sum of days in complaint processing does not include Saturdays, Sundays or holidays. 

E.      Equity conciliation team – the people designated to coordinate the effort to comply with and carry out the school’s responsibilities under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and other state and federal laws that address equal educational opportunity.  The Tile IX coordinator is responsible for the processing of complaints and will serve as a moderator and recorder during all hearings that address the topic of equal educational opportunity.   

F.      School conduct or hearing committee for school rules – schools must have a conduct/hearing committee.  This committee may be made up of teachers, nurses, counselors, principals, and/or other staff members and will assist the building administrator in dealing with misconduct and other problems associated with staff/student behavior.  

G.     Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 – no person in the United States shall, on the basis of race, color or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity that receives federal financial assistance. 

H.     Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 – no person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity that receives federal financial assistance. 

I.        Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Public Law 93-112, Section 504 – no otherwise qualified disabled individual in the United States shall, solely on the basis of his or her disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity that receives federal financial assistance. 

COMPLAINT PROCEDURES

A complainant may file a complaint with an administrator, a supervisor, a school conduct/hearing committee member or a member of the District’s Equity Conciliation Team Committee.   

If an individual feels that he or she has been subjected to discriminatory actions or treatment he or she is encouraged to take action immediately because doing so increases the possibility that a situation can be resolved a low level. 

The District is responsible for investigating complaints, grievances and discriminatory actions or treatment.  The District reserves the right to file a complaint when the seriousness of an incident warrants an investigation. 

Confidentiality will be maintained to the greatest extent possible.  Information gathered during an informal procedure may be used during a formal procedure if the proceedings are taken that far.  There is no guarantee that there will be complete confidentiality throughout the process.  However, complaints will be treated as sensitive information and will not be shared with others unless divulging the information is a requirement of the procedures that follow and/or if the information falls under the category of a “need to know” principle. 

These suggestions are not intended to be all-inclusive nor are any of them specifically recommended.  Members of the administrative staff and/or the District’s Equity Conciliation Team can provide direction and are available to discuss these and other possible options.  It is important that parents, students and staff members make their concerns known to the District so that it can review and respond to each individual’s concerns.  Anyone in need of assistance should call the Superintendent’s office at (505) 773-4662 and ask for the names and phone numbers of the District’s Equity Conciliation Team members. 

The following situations are not a part of this grievance procedure and therefore they are not covered by this policy:  

a.       the discretionary act(s) of professional judgment relating to the evaluation of an employee’s job performance by his or her immediate supervisor; academic assessments of a student; and/or the assignment of grades by a student’s instructor;

b.      personnel decisions made by the Board, including, but not limited to, refusal to rehire an employ, a discharge, a demotion or any other action that directly and adversely affects an employee’s job status; student disciplinary decisions made pursuant to the State Board of Education’s regulations, “Rights and Responsibilities of the Public Schools and Public School Students” 6 NMAC 1.4; and local policies adopted pursuant thereto;

c.       situations in which the administration and the Board do not have the authority to act;

d.      situations in which the remedy for the alleged violation resides exclusively in a person, an agency or an authority other than the Board or the administration;

e.       situations in which the course of action or solution has been provided by the Board;

f.        situations in which the course of action within the agency is recommended by a state or federal authority; and

g.       situations involving a grievance filed by an individual or an agency that is contracted to the District. 

A former employee may not file a grievance after his or her effective date of termination or discharge.  Likewise, a former student may not file a grievance after his or her effective date of expulsion, withdrawal or dis-enrollment from the District. 

INFORMAL AND FORMAL STEPS

A.     INFORMAL COMPLAINT OPTIONS:  There are several informal options to choose from when dealing with alleged grievances, discriminatory actions and/or treatment.  They include the following: 

1.      SPEAK DIRECTLY TO THE PERSON YOU ARE HAVING A PROBLEM WITH.  Be sure to include information detailing what that person is doing that upsets you, how that person’s actions make you feel and how you would like for the behavior to change. 

2.      WRITE A LETTER TO THE PERSON YOU ARE HAVING A PROBLEM WITH.  Be sure to include information detailing what that person is doing that upsets you, how that person’s actions make you feel and how you would like for the behavior to change.  Make a copy of the letter for yourself and deliver the letter in person, preferably accompanied by another individual so that there is a witness to the delivery of the letter.  (This individual does not need to know the contents of the letter.)  You may also send a copy of the letter to the District’s Equity Conciliation Team in order to ensure that your attempt at resolving the problem is documented; this step is not required but may be done if the complainant believes that it is appropriate and necessary. 

3.      MEET WITH A NEUTRAL THIRD PARTY TO DISCUSS THE SITUATION.  Suggested individuals include: a friend, a minister, a counselor, a teacher, a family member, an administrator, a supervisor, a school conduct/hearing committee member or another member of the staff.  When choosing a third party to discuss the issue with, look for someone that you feel comfortable with and someone that can be trusted to listen sensitively, to maintain confidentiality (to the greatest extent possible) and to have information on the problem-solving options available to you.  A member of the District’s Equity Conciliation Team may serve as the neutral third party or they may recommend someone else for the job.  Such a discussion can help you examine different ways to deal with the problem.  Following the discussion, a decision can be made as to whether or not you should pursue the matter.  If you decide to do so you may want to discuss how to handle the next step with the third party as well. 

4.      REQUEST A THIRD PARTY TO DISCUSS THE PROBLEM WITH THE PERSON YOU ARE HAVING A PROBLEM WITH. 

5.      REQUEST MEDIATION THROUGH THE DISTRICT’S EQUITY CONCILIATION TEAM. 

B.     FORMAL COMPLAINT PROCEDURES:  Formal procedures for dealing with grievances and discriminatory actions and/or treatment require that a complainant submit a written complaint detailing how a District staff member or student has violated the District’s written policies, regulations or agreements with other governmental agencies. 

LEVEL ONE

1.      THE COMPLAINANT MUST FILE A WRITTEN COMPLAINT:  A student, staff member, parent or guardian must file a signed and written complaint with the building supervisor or the District’s Equity Conciliation Team.  If the supervisor is the alleged violator, the complaint should be filed with the next-highest supervisor.  A formal written complaint must contain the following information: 

a.       A description of the event(s) in question and the date(s) the event(s) occurred (to the best of the complainant’s knowledge).

b.      The name(s) of the individual(s) involved.

c.       The negative effects of the action or treatment and how it has effected the complainant’s ability to carry out his or her job responsibilities or to get an education.

d.      The complainant’s desired solution and its anticipated outcome. 

2.      COPIES OF THE COMPLAINT WILL BE GIVEN TO THE RESPONDENT AND, IF APPROPRIATE, TO THE DISTRICT’S EQUITY CONCILIATION TEAM:  The individual who received the written complaint will either deliver the complaint in person or send a copy of the complaint to the respondent’s home address by registered mail.  He or she may also send a copy of the complaint to the District’s Equity Conciliation Team if it needs to be involved in the process. 

3.      THE SUPERVISOR WILL INTERVIEW THE COMPLAINANT AND THE RESPONDENT:  The supervisor must arrange a conference with both parties (together or separately) within ten (10) school days of receiving the complaint.  The supervisor will advise both parties of their rights to be accompanied by a union representative, an advisor, an Equity Conciliation Team member, a parent or a guardian.  The purpose of the interview is to review the complaint with both parties and to give the respondent an opportunity to explain his or her side of the story.   

a.       If the complaint is mutually resolved, the supervisor will present a written summary of the resolution to everyone involved within five (5) working days. 

b.      If the complaint is not satisfactorily resolved, the supervisor will give his or her written recommendation for a solution to everyone involved within five (5) working days.

c.       If the supervisor needs additional information on the situation, he or she may ask the District’s Equity Conciliation Team to conduct a fact-finding investigation.  The investigation should not take more than ten (10) school days.  After the supervisor has received a written report detailing the findings of the investigation, he or she must send a written recommendation for a solution to all parties involved within five (5) school days.  (A copy of the written report detailing the findings of the investigation will be given to both the complainant and the respondent.) 

If one or both of the parties are not satisfied with the supervisor’s decision they must notify the supervisor and/or the District’s Equity Conciliation Team within ten (10) school days.  Subsequently, a review of the level one actions taken will be conducted and a written appeal will be started for level two.  

LEVEL TWO

1.   WRITTEN APPEAL WILL BE FILED WITH THE BOARD OF

EDUCATION THROUGH THE SUPERINTENDENT:  The complainant must file a written appeal with the Superintendent’s office.  If the Equity Conciliation Team is involved it will review the level one actions taken in order to determine whether or not the parties involved were given a fair opportunity to present their sides of the story and to furnish supporting evidence to the supervisor.  They will also determine if all of the possible solutions at level one have been exhausted and work with both parties and the next-highest supervisor to correct any procedural errors and to achieve a solution that is satisfactory to both parties.  If an appeal is still desired after the aforementioned options have been exhausted, the next step will be taken. 

2.   PROCEDURES FOR FILING AN APPEAL REQUEST FORM WITH THE SCHOOL BOARD: The complainant will present an appeal request form to the Superintendent’s secretary along with copies of the initial complaint, written responses to the complaint and the reasons for filing an appeal.  An appeal may be filed on the basis of new information and/or a challenge to the procedures followed in the previous proceedings.  All forms should be signed, dated and submitted within ten (10) school days of the receipt of the supervisor’s findings and recommendations.  

3.      THE BOARD MAY OR MAY NOT ACCEPT AN APPEAL.  Once an appeal is received, the Board will review the documents from previous proceedings and decide whether or not it will formally review the case.   

4.   THE BOARD WILL BASE ITS DECISION ON SUBMITTED DOCUMENTS OR A FORMAL HEARING.  If the Board does decide to review a case it will base its decision on submitted documents or a formal hearing.  The Board reserves the right to accept, reject or modify the resolutions proposed during previous proceedings and/or to increase or decrease the severity of the consequences recommended at lower levels. 

a.       A DECISION BASED ON SUBMITTED DOCUMENTS.  If the Board bases its decision on submitted documents, copies of that decision will be given to the complainant, the respondent, the supervisor and the District’s Equity Conciliation Team within ten (10) school days.   

The Superintendent will advise the supervisor of the steps that need to be taken in order to implement the Board’s decision.

b.      A DECISION BASED ON A FORMAL HEARING.  If the Board determines that it is necessary to hold a formal hearing, the Superintendent’s office will contact the supervisors involved, the District’s Equity Conciliation Team, and if appropriate, the complainant and the respondent to request that they bring relevant materials to the hearing.  The formal hearing will be conducted in a closed meeting unless the complai