Student Handbook

Parents are often discouraged when they attempt to communicate with central office administrators and school board members and are sent back to building-based officials in order to resolve a problem their child may be experiencing in school. To prevent that frustration, parents can become informed about the “chain of command,” or where to begin the communication sequence regarding their problem or concern.

Many parent and community questions are easily and completely answered by communication directly with the educator in charge of the class or program. Each situation should be first addressed at whatever level the initial action was taken with appeals moving on to the next level on the chain of command. The easiest way to communicate is via e-mail, and a phone call is the next preferable way. Contact information such as e-mail addresses and phone numbers can be found on the district website.

On Matters Involving Instruction/Curriculum

• Classroom Teacher
• Building Administrator
• Associate Superintendent of School Improvement
• Superintendent
• Board of Education

On Matters Involving Special Education Services

• Classroom Teacher
• Principal
• Associate Superintendent of Student Services
• Superintendent
• Board of Education

On Matters Involving Athletics

• Coach
• Athletic Director
• Principal
• Superintendent
• Board of Education

On Matters Involving Student Discipline

• Classroom Teacher
• Building Administration
• Associate Superintendent of Student Services
• Superintendent
• Board of Education

On Matters Involving Facilities/Grounds/Building

• Principal
• Facilities Supervisor
• Superintendent
• Associate Superintendent of HR
• Board of Education

On Matters Involving Transportation

• Bus Driver
• Transportation Supervisor
• Superintendent
• Associate Superintendent of HR
• Board of Education

On Matters Involving Food/Nutrition Services

• Building Administration
• Food/Nutrition Services Director
• Assistant Chief Financial Officer
• Superintendent
• Board of Education

Interpreters are available for families who need assistance.    

The Board of Education establishes the following policy for determining eligibility to attend the schools of this District.

A.  The Board will educate, tuition-free, students who are legal residents of the District. Proof of residency will be required for registration in the District. Legal residency must be based on the need for housing and not for educational purposes. Legal residency means a student is residing with his/her parents, legal guardians, or a resident with power of attorney over the student. If a student's residence is with a nonresident parent, the student may attend school in this District tuition free if a noncustodial parent is a legal resident of the District.

B.  A child who is placed in foster care by a court of competent jurisdiction shall be admitted tuition free, without regard to residency, to a school within the District, as selected by the State Department of Human Services or the child placing agency responsible for placement of that child.

C.   Foreign students, participating in a bona fide, foreign-exchange program and living with a resident host family, will be admitted tuition-free.

D.  The District shall provide a free education to those students who are considered by Federal law to be illegal aliens or considered to be homeless by State established criteria.

E.  Students whose parents do not reside within the District but who present evidence that they will move into the District within a short period of time may enroll in the schools of this District as tuition students for the time not in residence.

F.  Twelfth grade students who have begun their work toward graduation from the District's high school and whose parents no longer reside within the District may be permitted to complete their high school education as tuition students.

G.  Nonresident students who are released by the district of residence may enroll, for State-aid purposes, tuition free prior to the fourth Friday count and after that date on a tuition basis. HPS participates in School of Choice as a 105c District.

H.  Students enrolled in the special education program of this District whose parents do not reside within the District may attend as tuition students. Tuition in such cases shall be paid by the Intermediate School District.

I.  Students, residing in the District but not living with a parent, shall be ineligible to enroll unless said students can be considered emancipated minors by court decree and have proved the establishment of an independent residence.

J.  Children of Joint Custody Decrees may attend school without payment of tuition if one (1) parent resides in this District.
If the student resides in another school district but attends school in this District (where one (1) parent resides), it is the obligation of the parents to provide transportation for the student from the home of the nonresident, custodial parent.

K.  A student who is the child of a person who is employed by the District, including an adopted child or legal ward.

The Board of Education is committed to providing for all students equal opportunity for quality education. In recognizing its legal and moral responsibilities to the children of the School District, the Board of Education depends on parents and the community to share the responsibility for preparing young people as capable and functioning citizens in a democracy.

The Board of Education supports education that serves the needs of children with differing abilities and interests. In providing programs and services, the Board recognizes the accountability of the schools and community, the nurturing role of parents, and the obligations of students in developing their life-long learning which includes moral, social, and civic responsibilities.

Holland Public Schools curriculum is aligned with Michigan Department of Education State Academic Standards K-12. The state academic standards serve to outline learning expectations for Michigan’s students and are intended to guide our local curriculum development. These standards should be used as a framework for curriculum development with the curriculum itself prescribing instructional resources, methods, progressions, and additional knowledge valued by our HPS community. These standards provide a platform for state assessments, which are used to measure how well schools are providing opportunities for all students to learn the content outlined by the standards. Horizontal alignment assures that all students have access to the same curriculum regardless of which Holland Public School they attend or teacher they are assigned. Vertical articulation addresses the transition between one grade or subject level to the next. At HPS, this is an ongoing process that is never fully complete as teachers and administrators continue to look at data, research, and resources and how well the curriculum is being implemented. We believe that ensuring that every student has the same access to curriculum and instruction is the right of every student at HPS!

Curriculum maps are available upon request by contacting the Director of School Improvement or online at http://www.hollandpublicschools.org/academics/parent-curriculum-guides/.

21f Learning Opportunities
Annual Reports and School Improvement Plans
Assessment
Core Program
Dual Enrollment
Field Trips
Graduation Requirements
Grade Point Average
Grading Period/Report Cards
Transcripts
Homeless Students
Homework
Identification of Academically Gifted/Talented Students
Least Restrictive Environment
Limited English Proficiency Program
Parent Notification Right to Request and Review: Information Regarding Teacher Qualifications/Assignment of Not Highly Qualified Teacher
Parent Teacher Conferences/Report Cards
Personal Curriculum
Promotion, Placement, and Retention
Reproductive Health and Family Planning
Student Fees, Fines, and Supplies
Technology
Transitional Kindergarten
Testing out of a Class
Virtual/Internet Study Options

21f Online Learning Opportunities

Holland Public Schools is in the process of transforming our district to one that truly prepares our students for life as a 21st century learner. HPS offers a variety of opportunities for students in both a face to face and online environment.

Assessment

The Board of Education shall, in compliance with law and rules of the State Board of Education, assess student achievement and needs in designated subject areas in order to determine the progress of students and to assist them in attaining District goals. Each student's proficiencies and needs will be assessed by staff members upon his/her entrance into the District and annually thereafter. Procedures for such assessments will include, but need not be limited to, teacher observation techniques, cumulative student records, student performance data collected through standard testing programs, student portfolios, and physical examinations.

All eleventh grade students shall participate in the Michigan Merit Examination, unless excluded under the guidelines established by the State Department of Education.

A student who wants to repeat a State approved readiness assessment (other than the Michigan Merit Examination and any component) may repeat the assessment in the next school year or after graduation on a date when the District is administering the assessment. Only this type of repeat assessment testing will be without charge to the student.

The District shall administer the complete Michigan Merit Examination to a student only once and shall not administer the complete Michigan Merit Examination to the same student more than once if the student has valid scores in some or all MME components. If a student does not take the complete Michigan Merit Examination in grade 11, the District shall administer the complete Michigan Merit Examination to the student in grade 12. If a student chooses to retake the college entrance examination component of the Michigan Merit Examination, the student may do so through the provider of the college entrance examination component and the cost of the retake is the responsibility of the student unless all of the following are met:

A.  the student has taken the complete Michigan Merit Examination

B.  the student did not qualify for a Michigan promise grant based on the student's performance on the complete Michigan Merit Examination

C.  the student meets the Federal income eligibility criteria for free breakfast, lunch, or milk

D.  the student has applied to the provider of the college entrance examination component for a scholarship or fee waiver to cover the cost of the retake and that application has been denied

E.  after taking the complete Michigan Merit Examination, the student has not already received a free retake of the college entrance examination component paid for either by the State of Michigan, or through a scholarship or fee waiver by the provider

Annual Reports and School Improvement Plans

Reports for the 2016-2017 academic year may be viewed on line for the district and individual schools at http://www.hollandpublicschools.org/academics/school-improvement-plans-2016-17/

Core Program

The Board of Education is dedicated to providing instruction that will enable students to achieve optimum growth in their academic endeavors and develop the skills essential in the workplace and community. Utilizing available resources, the Board pledges to continuously monitor, evaluate, and implement instructional goals that meet the educational needs of students in a diverse and changing society. In order to comply with State law, the Board has adopted a core curriculum which is based on the Model Core Curriculum developed by the State Board of Education. In addition to the core program, the district provides effective innovations and co-curricular/extra-curricular activities for students during the day and after school.

Dual Enrollment

The Board of Education recognizes the value to students and to the District for students to participate in courses offered by accredited and degree-granting colleges and universities in Michigan. Eligible postsecondary institutions shall include state universities, community colleges, and independent nonprofit degree-granting colleges or universities located in Michigan and that choose to comply with the Postsecondary Enrollment Options Act.

The Board will allow eligible high school students who meet the criteria established in the Superintendent's guidelines to enroll in eligible postsecondary courses while in attendance in the District. The Superintendent shall allow a student, upon written request of his/her parent to take approved readiness assessment(s) in order to establish eligibility for postsecondary enrollment. Any tests are to be administered free of charge in accordance with the District's testing schedule. Students will be eligible to receive appropriate credit for completing any of these courses providing they meet all requirements for the type of credit they wish to earn.

Upon receipt of a bill from the postsecondary institution itemizing the charges for a student's participation in a particular course, the District shall either pay the bill or the prorated percentage of the State portion of the foundation allowance for that student, whichever is lower. If charges exceed such payment, the student and his/her parents are responsible for the remaining charges.

If a student participating in the postsecondary (dual) enrollment program fails to successfully complete an eligible course, the student and his/her parents are responsible for reimbursing the District for such charges incurred by the District for such enrollment. In the event reimbursement is not made in a reasonable period of time, the Superintendent is authorized to file claim against the student and/or his/her parents in Small Claims Court for collection.

Field Trips

The Board of Education recognizes that field trips, when used for teaching and learning integral to the curriculum, are an educationally sound and important ingredient in the instructional program of the schools. Properly planned and executed field trips should:

A.  supplement and enrich classroom procedures by providing learning experiences in an environment outside the schools;

B.  arouse new interests among students;

C.  help students relate school experiences to the reality of the world outside of school;

D.  bring the resources of the community - natural, artistic, industrial, commercial, governmental, educational - within the student's learning experience;

E.  afford students the opportunity to study real things and real processes in their actual environment.

For purposes of this policy, a field trip shall be defined as any planned journey by one or more students away from District premises, which is under the supervision of a professional staff member and an integral part of a course of study.

Graduation Requirements

It is the policy of the Board of Education to acknowledge each student's successful completion of the instructional program or a personal curriculum appropriate to the achievement of District goals and objectives as well as personal proficiency by the awarding of a diploma at fitting graduation ceremonies.

The Board notifies each of its students and a parent or legal guardian of each of its students that all students are entitled to a personal curriculum. The annual notice shall include an explanation of what a personal curriculum is and state that if a personal curriculum is requested, the public school or public school academy will grant that request. The District shall provide this annual notice to parent and legal guardians by sending a written notice to each student’s home or by including the notice in a newsletter, and also shall post the notice on the District website.

The Board shall award a high school diploma to every student enrolled in this District who meets the requirements of graduation established by this Board, the Michigan Department of Education (MDE), and as provided by State law.

Credit may be earned by:

A.  traditional course work

B.  demonstrating mastery of subject area content expectations or guidelines for the credit;

C.  related course work in which content standards are embedded;

D.  non-traditional course work;

E.  independent teacher-guided study;

F.  testing out;

G.  dual enrollment;

H.  advanced placement courses;

I.  international baccalaureate or other "early college" programs;

J.  Michigan Department of Education (MDE)-approved formal career and technical (CTE) program or curriculum; or

K.  on-line class.

Students shall successfully complete an on-line course or learning experience or shall have the on-line learning experience incorporated into each of the required credits of the Michigan Merit Curriculum.

Special education students who properly complete the programs specified in their I.E.P., or in a personal curriculum, and meet the requirements for a high school diploma, and have received the recommendation of the I.E.P.C. may participate in graduation activities as recommended by the student's I.E.P.C. Reasonable accommodation shall be made for students with disabilities, as defined under State or Federal law, to assist them in taking any required tests or assessments for graduation.

For State-mandated curriculum requirements, a student shall be granted credit toward graduation if s/he successfully completes the subject area content expectations or guidelines developed by the department that apply to the credit. A student may also receive credit if s/he earns a qualifying score, as determined by the State on the assessments developed or selected for the subject area by the State or the student earns a qualifying score, as determined by the District on one or more assessments developed or selected by the School District that measure a student's understanding of the subject area content expectations or guidelines that apply to the credit. For subject areas and courses in which a final examination is used as the assessment for successful attainment of the subject area content, a grade of C+ or better is required.

The Board shall grant credit toward high school graduation for any student who successfully completes, prior to entering high school, a State-mandated curriculum requirement, provided s/he completes the same content requirements as the high school subject area, and the student has demonstrated the same level of proficiency on the material as required of the high school students.

For elective courses, which are not State-mandated curriculum requirements, the Board shall grant credit to any high school student who is not enrolled in the course, but has exhibited a reasonable level of knowledge of the subject matter of the course by achieving C+ or better in the final exam for the course, or, if there is no final exam, through the basic assessment used for the course, which may consist of a portfolio, paper, project, presentation or other established means.

Such credit shall be counted toward the required number of credits needed for graduation. Mastery credits shall be counted toward any subject area requirement and any course sequence requirement. Once mastery credit is earned in a subject area, a student may not receive further credit for a lower sequence course in the same subject area.

A high school student shall be granted credit in any world language not offered by the District providing the student meets the competency criteria established by the Superintendent.

The career and technical education credits may include work-based learning by a student working at a business or other work setting with appropriate oversight by the District over the student’s experience and learning in the work setting in which the work-based learning occurs.

Commencement exercises will include only those students who have successfully completed requirements as certified by the high school principal. No student who has completed the requirements for graduation shall be denied a diploma as a disciplinary measure. A student may be denied participation in the ceremony of graduation, however, when personal conduct so warrants.

The specific graduation requirements are defined in Administrative Guidelines 5460-Graduation Requirements or can be reviewed at any of our secondary school locations in person with an administrator or counselor.

A full course catalog of classes that are offered at Holland Public Schools is available from any of the secondary school offices. The Holland High School Course Description Handbook provides details for educational planning and classes offered for credit.

Grade Point Average

Grade Point Averages are determined at the end of each semester. Advanced Placement courses are weighted on a 5.0 scale.

Grading Periods/Report Cards

Report cards are issued to students at the end of each semester in grades 8-12. Marking period grades are issued to students in grades K-7.  A progress report will be issued after the first 9 weeks of each semester for students in grades 6-12.

When a student appears to be at risk of failure, notification will be provided to the parents so they can talk with the teacher about what actions can be taken to improve poor grades.

Transcripts

There is no charge for transcripts when they are requested directly by other schools and colleges. The fee for all other transcript requests is $1.00 for current students and $5.00 for alumni.

Students may now use www.docufide.com to complete college applications and transcript requests. There is no HHS fee for current students using docufide, however, there may be a docufide fee if the school is outside the docufide network.

Homeless Students

Children who meet the Federal definition of "homeless" will be provided a free appropriate public education in the same manner as all other students of the District. To that end, homeless students will not be stigmatized or segregated on the basis of their status as homeless and will be assigned to the school serving those non-homeless students residing in the area in which the homeless child is actual living. The District shall establish safeguards that protect homeless students from discrimination on the basis of their homelessness.

Homeless children and youth are defined as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, and include those who meet any of the following criteria:

A.  share the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar reason

B.  live in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to a lack of alternative adequate accommodations

C.  live in emergency or transitional shelters

D.  are abandoned in hospitals

E.  are awaiting foster care placement

F.  have a primary night time residence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings, or

G.  live in a car, park, public space, abandoned building, substandard housing, bus or train station, or similar setting

Additionally, pursuant to Federal and State law, migratory children who are living in circumstances described in A-G above are also considered homeless.

Homeless preschool-aged children and their families shall be provided equal access to the educational services for which they are eligible, including preschool programs administered by the School District.

The District shall remove barriers to the enrollment and retention of homeless students in schools in the District. Homeless students shall be enrolled immediately, even if they do not have the necessary enrollment documentation such as immunization and health records, proof of residency or guardianship, birth certificate, school records, and other documentation.

Homeless students will be provided services comparable to other students in the District including:

A.  transportation services;

B.  educational services for which the homeless student meets eligibility criteria including services provided under Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act or similar State or local programs, educational programs for children with disabilities, and educational programs for students with limited English proficiency;

C.  programs in vocational and technical education;

D.  programs for gifted and talented students;

E.  school nutrition programs; and

F.  before- and after- school programs.

Homeless students have the right to remain in their school of origin or the local attendance area school, according to the child's best interest. The school of origin is the school that the student attended when permanently housed or last enrolled. The local attendance area school is any public school that non-homeless students who live in the attendance area in which the student is actually living are eligible to attend.

Homeless students have the right to dispute their school assignment, if their assignment is other than their school of origin. In determining the best interest of the student, the District shall, to the extent feasible, keep the student in the school of origin, except when doing so is contrary to the wishes of the homeless student's parent or guardian or the unaccompanied youth. If the student is sent to a school other than the school of origin or a school requested by the parent or guardian, a written explanation, including a statement regarding the right to appeal, will be provided to the homeless student's parent or guardian or the unaccompanied youth.

Homework

The Board of Education acknowledges the educational validity of out-of-school assignments as adjuncts to and extensions of the instructional program of the schools in grades Pre-K to 12. Homework shall refer to those assignments to be prepared outside of the school by the student or independently while in attendance at school.

The following guidelines have been developed to assist principals in working with staff to establish appropriate homework assignments:

A.  All homework assignments should have a specific purpose related to the learning objectives of a program or course.

B.  Homework assignments should be appropriate to the grade level and the abilities of the students involved.

C.  Assignments should involve application of knowledge, reinforcement of communication, research and other skills, and should provide experiences which strengthen attitudes and allow for creativity.

D.  Punishment assignments should never be given.

E.  The purpose of homework, in terms of the goals of a program, should be clear to the student when assigned, the work corrected when returned, and both the strengths and weaknesses of his/her work communicated in ways which provide for improved performance.

F.  As part of the process of using homework as a learning tool, students should be involved in learning how to critique their own and each others' work based on clearly-defined criteria related to the particular program or course of study.

G.  The time limits for the completion of homework should:

1.  be reasonable and consistent with the nature of the assignments given;

2.  provide for interim appraisal of progress where assignments involve blocks of time;

3.  include a reasonable time for make-up of missed homework assignments and/or improvements based on teacher comments.

Identification of Academically Gifted/Talented Youth

The following criteria should be used to identify students for the gifted/talented program:

A.  One or more standard deviations above average on standardized tests of achievement in reading, language, and/or mathematics.

B.  Demonstrated achievement of the goals and objectives in one or more academic areas of the regular school program at a level which significantly exceeds that of most students in the same situation and of the same age or experience. Also, no serious achievement deficiencies in any academic area.

C.  Demonstrated ability and willingness to perform regular classroom tasks significantly more effectively than other students in the same situation.

Least Restrictive Environment

It is the philosophy and position of the Board of Education and its administration that the primary responsibility for the administration and delivery of special education programs and services should be within the District and at the school a student would regularly attend, whenever appropriate.

Further, the Board endorses a commitment to the provision of a continuum of special education programs and services to disabled students in cooperation with the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District. Placement options shall follow a continuum of services model to ensure that each disabled person is provided a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). To that end, every attempt will be made to first serve disabled students in the context of a regular education classroom. Other more restrictive environments such as: resource rooms, self-contained categorical classrooms, or settings outside of a District school will be considered only after consideration has been given by the IEPC as to the feasibility of placement in the regular classroom.

Limited English Proficiency Program

The Board believes in the importance of providing English language instruction to students in the District who are Limited English Proficient (LEP), including immigrant children and youth. The Board's Limited English Proficiency Program ("LEP Program") shall be provided to enable LEP students to become competent in the areas of listening, speaking, reading, and writing of the English language and effectively participate in the District's educational program.

Each student enrolling in the District for the first time will be required to complete a Home Language Survey in order to identify whether the student's primary or home language is other than English. Each completed survey will be included as a part of the permanent record of each student in the District. Each student who identifies that his/her primary or home language is other than English will be assessed in order to determine whether s/he is LEP and needs special language assistance in order to effectively participate in the District's educational program. Such assessment will be administered in accordance with the age and educational level of the student. Based on the assessment results, the District will determine whether the student is eligible to participate in the LEP Program. Each student who is eligible to participate in the LEP Program will be placed in a setting that is appropriate for his/her age, grade level, and language and educational needs.

Parent Notification Right to Request & Review: Information Regarding Teacher Qualifications Assignment of Not Highly Qualified Teacher

As a parent/guardian of a student in the Holland Public Schools, please be aware that only licensed and certified teachers and paraprofessionals are hired to serve our students. As part of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, parents and guardians have the right to request specific information about the professional qualifications of their child’s classroom teachers. As a parent/guardian of a student in HPS, you have the right to know when your child has been assigned to or has been taught, for four or more consecutive weeks, by a teacher who is not highly qualified. You also have the right to request the following information: (1) Whether the teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction; (2) Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualification or licensing criteria have been waived. (3) The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree. (4) Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.

Parent–Teacher Conferences / Report Cards

Parents and teachers are encouraged to communicate with each other throughout the school year.  Addressing questions, learning needs, and concerns as they occur is important. Good home and school communication enhances student achievement and cooperation.

Every HPS school has two time frames set aside every year for Parent Teacher Conferences. (Fall and Spring)

The purpose of these conferences is to exchange information, ideas, and concerns (if any) about the academic and personal growth of the respective students. We consider it essential for parents to attend P/T conferences. Please work with your child’s teacher to schedule a conference time that meets your needs so you can attend. You will be notified ahead of time (both fall and spring) on how to do this.

In addition, progress reports and report cards will mark your child’s academic progress. These report cards will be sent home at regular intervals throughout the school year.

Personal Curriculum

Schools will develop a Personal Curriculum for any student at the request of the student's parent or guardian or, if the student is at least 18 years old, at the student's request.

The Personal Curriculum (PC) is a process to modify specific credit requirements and/or content expectations based on the individual learning needs of a student. It is designed to serve students who want to accelerate or go beyond the Michigan Merit Curriculum (MMC) requirements and students who need to individualize learning requirements to meet the MMC requirements.

Promotion, Placement, and Retention

The Board of Education recognizes that the personal, social, physical, and educational growth of children will vary and that they should be placed in the educational setting most appropriate to their needs at the various stages of their growth.

It shall be the policy of the Board that each student be moved forward in a continuous pattern of achievement and growth that is in harmony with his/her own development.

Such pattern should coincide with the system of grade levels established by this Board and the instructional objectives established for each.

A student will be promoted to the succeeding grade level when s/he has:

A.  completed the course requirements at the presently assigned grade;

B.  in the opinion of the professional staff, achieved the instructional objectives set for the present grade;

C.  demonstrated sufficient proficiency to permit him/her to move ahead in the educational program of the next grade;

D.  demonstrated the degree of social, emotional, and physical maturation necessary for a successful learning experience in the next grade.

Beginning in the 2017-2018 school year, all K-3rd grade students will be monitored for the proficiency of early literacy skills. Any student who is not demonstrating proficiency will be placed on an individualized reading plan. A lack of proficiency at the third grade will lead to communication from the Michigan Department of Education and possible grade level retention. Students who are screened as kindergarten students and participate in the District’s Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program are not subject to retention consideration.

Reproductive Health and Family Planning

The Board of Education directs that students receive instruction in reproductive health and family planning and the recognition, prevention, and treatment of noncasual-contact communicable diseases such as venereal diseases and AIDS. "Reproductive health" shall be defined as that state of an individual's well-being which involves the reproductive system and its physiological, psychological, and endocrinological functions.

The Board accepts as policy the guidelines entitled "Sex Education Guidelines including Reproductive Health and Family Planning" established by the Michigan Department of Education. A copy shall be available for inspection in the Board office.

The Board directs that:

A.  abstinence from sexual activity be taught as the most reliable method for the restriction and prevention of noncasual-contact communicable disease;

B.  abstinence from sexual activity be taught as the healthiest, most positive life-style for unmarried young people;

C.  effective techniques for resisting peer pressure to become sexually active be included in the instruction;

D.  parents be notified, in advance of the instruction, about the content of the instruction;

E.  parents be given an opportunity, prior to instruction, to review the materials to be used (other than tests) as well as the opportunity to observe the instruction;

F.  parents be advised of their right to have their child excused from any parts of this instruction to which they object on moral or religious grounds.

Student Fees, Fines, and Supplies

Fees: The Board of Education may assess certain charges to students to cover the costs for extra-curricular and noncredit activities. Such charges might be made for expendable items such as magazines, workbook materials, paperback selections, and laboratory supplies and materials for clubs, independent study or special projects, and as well transportation costs and admission/participation fees for District-sponsored trips and activities.

No student, however, shall be deprived of participation in any mandatory school activity or required curriculum activity due to a lack of financial ability to pay and fees will not be charged for such activities. Extra-curricular activities for which fees will be charged may not be used in determining credit or grades in any course.

A fee shall not exceed the combined cost of the service(s) provided and/or materials used. An accurate accounting of all fees collected and all fees expended shall be provided to the Superintendent or his/her designee for each fee based activity at the conclusion of the activity, along with remission of any fees not expended.

Fines: When school property, equipment, or supplies are damaged, lost, or taken by a student, a fine will be assessed. The fine will be reasonable, seeking only to compensate the school for the expense or loss incurred.

The late return of borrowed books or materials from the school libraries will be subject to appropriate fines. Failure to pay the fines may result in loss of privileges.

All fines collected will be sent to the Business Office for deposit in the appropriate fund.

In the event the above course of action does not result in the fee being collected, the Board authorizes the Superintendent/designee to take the student and/or his/her parents to Small Claims Court for collection.

Supplies: The District will provide all basic supplies needed by the student to complete the required course curriculum. The student and/or his/her family may choose to purchase their own supplies if they desire to have a greater quantity or quality of supplies, or desire to help conserve the limited resources for use by others. The teacher or appropriate administrator may recommend useful supplies for these purposes.

Technology

The Board of Education is committed to the effective use of technology to both enhance the quality of staff and student learning and the efficiency of District operations. Students’ use of District’ Technology Resources is a privilege, not a right. Students and their parents must sign and submit a Student Technology Acceptable Use and Safety form annually. This policy, along with the Student and Staff Technology Acceptable Use and Safety policies, and the Student Code of Conduct, further govern students’ and staff members’ use of their personal communication devices (see Policy 5136 and Policy 7530.02). Users have no right or expectation of privacy when using District technology resources (including, but not limited to, privacy in the content of their personal files, e-mails and records of their online activity when using the District’s computer network and/or Internet connection).

Students may possess wireless communication devices (WCDs) in school, on school property, during after school activities (e.g. extra-curricular activities) and at school-related functions, provided that during school hours and on school vehicles the WCDs are powered completely off (i.e., not just placed into vibrate or silent mode) and stored out of sight unless for a specific educational purpose.

A "wireless communication device" is a device that emits an audible signal, vibrates, displays a message, or otherwise summons or delivers a communication to the possessor. The following devices are examples of WCDs: cellular and wireless telephones, pagers/beepers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), BlackBerrys/Smartphones, Wi-Fi-enabled or broadband access devices, two-way radios or video broadcasting devices, laptops, and other devices that allow a person to record and/or transmit, on either a real time or delayed basis, sound, video or still images, text, or other information. Students may not use WCDs on school property or at a school-sponsored activity to access and/or view Internet websites that are otherwise blocked to students at school. Students may use WCDs while riding to and from school on a school bus or other vehicle provided by the Board, or on a school bus or Board-provided vehicle during school-sponsored activities, at the discretion of the bus driver, classroom teacher, or sponsor/advisor/coach. Distracting behavior that creates an unsafe environment will not be tolerated.

Also, during after school activities when directed by the administrator or sponsor, WCDs shall be powered completely off (not just placed into vibrate or silent mode) and stored out of sight.

The requirement that WCDs must be powered completely off will not apply in the following circumstances when the student obtains prior approval from the building principal and classroom teacher.

The student is using the WCD for an educational or instructional purpose (e.g. taking notes, recording a class lecture, writing papers) with the teacher’s permission and supervision. The preceding prohibitions do not apply to Board-owned and issued laptops, PDAs or authorized assistive technology devices.

Students are prohibited from using WCDs to capture, record or transmit the words (i.e. audio) and/or images (i.e., pictures/video) of any student, staff member or other person in the school or while attending a school-related activity, without express prior notice and explicit consent for the capture, recording or transmission of such words or images. Using a WCD to take or transmit audio and/or pictures/video of an individual without his/her consent is considered an invasion of privacy and is not permitted, unless authorized by the building principal. Students who violate this provision and/or use a WCD to violate the privacy rights of another person may have their WCD confiscated and held until the end of the school year.

"Sexting" is prohibited at any time on school property or at school functions. Sexting is the electronic transmission of sexual messages or pictures, usually through cell phone text messaging. Such conduct not only is potentially dangerous for the involved students, but can lead to unwanted exposure of the messages and images to others, and could result in criminal violations related to the transmission or possession of child pornography. Such conduct will be subject to discipline and possible confiscation of the WCD.

WCDs, including but not limited to those with cameras, may not be possessed, activated or utilized at any time in any school situation where a reasonable expectation of personal privacy exists. These locations and circumstances include but are not limited to locker rooms, shower facilities, restrooms, classrooms, and any other areas where students or others may change clothes or be in any stage or degree of disrobing or changing clothes. The building principal has authority to make determinations as to other specific locations and situations where possession of a WCD is absolutely prohibited.

No expectation of confidentiality will exist in the use of WCDs on school premises/property.

Students are prohibited from using a WCD in any way that might reasonably create in the mind of another person an impression of being threatened, humiliated, harassed, embarrassed or intimidated. See Policy 5517.01 – Bullying and Other Forms of Aggressive Behavior.

Students are prohibited from using a WCD to capture and/or transmit test information or any other information in a manner constituting fraud, theft, cheating, or academic dishonesty. Likewise, students are prohibited from using their WCDs to receive such information.

Possession of a WCD by a student is a privilege that may be forfeited by any student who fails to abide by the terms of this policy, or otherwise engages in misuse of this privilege.

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action and/or confiscation of the WCD. The building principal may also refer the matter to law enforcement if the violation involves an illegal activity (e.g. child pornography). Discipline will be imposed on an escalating scale ranging from a warning to an expulsion based on the number of previous violations and/or the nature of or circumstances surrounding a particular violation. If the WCD is confiscated, it will be released/returned to the student’s parent/guardian after the student complies with any other disciplinary consequences that are imposed. Any WCD confiscated by District staff will be marked in a removable manner with the student’s name and held in a secure location in the building’s central office until it is retrieved by the parent/guardian. WCDs in District custody will not be searched or otherwise tampered with unless school officials reasonably suspect that the search is required to discover evidence of a violation of the law or other school rules. Any search will be conducted in accordance with Policy 5771 – Search and Seizure. If multiple offenses occur, a student may lose his/her privilege to bring a WCD to school for a designated length of time or on a permanent basis.

A person who discovers a student in possession of or using a WCD in violation of this policy is required to report the violation to the building principal.

Students are personally and solely responsible for the care and security of their WCDs. The Board assumes no responsibility for theft, loss, damage, or vandalism to WCDs brought onto its property, or the unauthorized use of such devices.

Parents/Guardians are advised that the best way to get in touch with their child during the school day is by calling the school office.

Students may use school phones to contact parents/guardians during the school day.

Administrative guidelines regarding cell phones:

A.  Students are prohibited from using cell phones or other electronic communication devices (ECD) or having them "On" during the school day. This includes lunch periods and passing periods, as well as on school-sponsored trips and "behind-the-wheel" driver education classes or in school vehicles. "Using" refers to, not only the making and/or receiving of calls, but also using the cell phone or ECD for any other purpose.

B.  Students are not permitted to wear their cell phones or ECD clipped to a belt or otherwise display them in plain sight during the school day. Students may, however, carry cell phones or ECDs in a backpack, purse, or inside a pocket of slacks, jeans, jacket, etc.

C.  Cell phones or ECDs may not be "On" or otherwise used in the school locker rooms, whether here or at another school district where a school activity or athletic event is occurring. This includes the use of the picture feature available with some models of cell phones.

D.  Students participating in extracurricular activities and athletics must contact their coach or sponsor for his/her rules involving cell phone or ECD use after school hours or on after-school bus trips. Coaches and sponsors will set their rules and enforce consequences involving the use and/or misuse of these devices.

E.  The District is not responsible for the loss, theft, damage, or vandalism to student cell phones or ECDs as well as other student property. Students and parents are strongly encouraged to ensure that, if students have cell phones or ECDs in their possession, they should not leave them unattended or unsecured. They are a popular theft item.

Transitional Kindergarten

The District recognizes the importance of a program designed for kindergarten-eligible children that addresses the individual needs of each child. The program allows children an opportunity to develop self-esteem, confidence, and emotional stability by providing a proper placement in a comfortable atmosphere that fosters success.

Kindergarten placement shall encompass the following:

A.  Kindergarten-eligible children may be registered during the summer or school year. Hearing, vision, speech, and language assessments will be administered in the spring. At the time of registration parents must present a birth certificate, proof of residency and any custodial arrangements, and must complete all required forms.

B.  Each child entering kindergarten shall be monitored early in the school year to allow for possible changes in kindergarten placement. When a placement change is contemplated, additional standardized testing will be administered. The principal, the child's classroom teacher and the Child Study Team will review this data and render a placement judgment. Following this review, the findings will be shared with the parents.

Testing Out Of A Class

PA 335, Section 1279BO requires school districts to provide students with the opportunity to “test out” of high school courses. The following serves as a guide for key information:

Holland High School requires a minimum grade of 77% on the “Test Out” exam.

Students may also be asked to demonstrate mastery through assessment of the course. This assessment may consist of portfolio, written papers, projects, or presentations, in addition to the traditional final exam. The student may be asked to do a combination of some or all of the above.

Credit earned is based on a “pass” grade and will not affect the student’s grade point average (GPA) and will be identified on the transcript as “CR” for credit. Credit earned does count toward graduation. Successful completion of a “test-out” course closes the option of obtaining credit in a lower course at a later date.

“Test Out” forms are available from Holland High School Counseling Offices and must be returned to your Counselor. All exams are to be taken during non-instructional time.

A $25.00 refundable deposit in the form of a personal check made out to Holland High School will be required. The deposit check will be returned once the student takes the test and returns all resource materials.

Virtual/Internet Study Options

In addition to regular classroom-based instruction, students may earn credit through virtual/online courses.

High school students may earn a maximum of eight (8) units of credit to be applied toward graduation requirements by completing online courses. A maximum of two (2) units of credit may be earned during any one (1) school year.

Credit for an online or virtual course may be earned only in the following circumstances:

A.  The course is not offered through the high school.

B.  Although the course is offered at the high school, the student is unable to take it due to scheduling conflicts.

C.  The course will serve as a supplement to summer school and extended homebound instruction.

D.  The student has been expelled from the regular high school setting, but educational services are to be continued.

E.  The principal, with the agreement of the student and his/her parent(s) determined that the student requires a differentiated or accelerated learning environment.

F.  Students taking such courses must be enrolled in the District.

The express approval of the principal shall be obtained before a student enrolls in a virtual/online course for credit. Each virtual/online student approved for such study shall be assigned a mentor teacher responsible for supervision and monitoring. The school must receive an official record of the final grade before credit toward graduation will be granted. Completion of any virtual/online course offering must not exceed twelve (12) months from the beginning date of the course.

The tuition fee for an approved virtual course shall be borne by the District for students enrolled full-time. The District may pay the fee for expelled students who are permitted to take virtual courses in alternative settings. Individual students shall be responsible for costs associated with summer school courses and/or courses not pre-approved by the principal.

Now, there is another option that may be available to you. As part of the State School Aid Act, section 21f has launched the choice of parents to request that their student(s), in grades 5-12, be enrolled in no more than two (2) online courses in place of a currently scheduled course. Parents and students can learn more online at http://www.hollandpublicschools.org/academics/21f-online-learning-opportunities/

Student Responsibilities
Student Activities Strictly Prohibited
Parent/Guardian Responsibilities
School Responsibilities
General Use
Charging Your Battery
Screen Care
School Use
Chromebook Management
Media, Sound, and Games
Chromebook Check-in and Check-out Repair
Repair and Costs
Educational Fee
Home Internet Access and Filtering
Saving to the Chromebook
Apps and Extensions
Inspection
Chromebook Operating System Updates

Holland Public School’s 1:1 Chromebook program is designed to provide equipment and resources that meet the needs of today’s students.

The Chromebook 1:1 Program helps to facilitate the OAISDs 7 Skills4Success:

Technology Literacy
Collaboration and Global Thinking
Effective Communication
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Flexibility and Adaptability
Ethical Citizenship and
Personal Accountability

Additionally, this program provides access to digital content both at home and at school whenever needed. More specific uses will be determined and communicated by classroom teachers.

Student Responsibilities

Use of the chromebook is a privilege. The Holland Public School District owns the device and will loan them to the students as a tool to support their learning experience. Students will be expected to bring the chromebook to school fully charged each day and have them in class just as they would for any other required material.

As a technology device, chromebooks fall under the Acceptable Use Policy and the Technology Code of Ethics.

I understand that my chromebook is subject to inspection at any time without notice and remains the property of the Holland Public Schools.
I will take care of my chromebook.
I will never leave the chromebook unattended.
I will know where my chromebook is at all times.
I will charge my chromebook's battery daily.
I will be responsible for any damage caused by food or drink to my chromebook.
I will not disassemble any part of my chromebook or attempt any repairs.
I understand that my chromebook is for educational use.
I will only use school-appropriate decorations (such as stickers, etc.) on my chromebook case.
I will file a police report in case of theft or vandalism.
I will be responsible for all damage or loss caused by neglect or abuse.
I agree to return the chromebook and power cords in good working condition at required check-ins (i.e., withdrawal from school or summer).
I will notify an administrator if a threatening or inappropriate message is received.
I understand that my use of the chromebook is subject to all applicable District policies and regulations, the Student Handbook, Student Code of Conduct, and any individual campus procedures.  

Student Activities Strictly Prohibited

Videotaping or photographing any individual, for non-educational use without their consent.
Illegal installation or transmission of copyrighted materials.
Any action that violates existing Board policy or public law.
Sending, accessing, uploading, downloading, or distributing offensive, profane, threatening, pornographic, obscene, or sexually explicit materials.
Use of chat rooms, sites selling term papers, book reports and other forms of student work.
Internet/Computer Games during instructional time.
Bypassing the HPS web filter through a web proxy.
Spamming-Sending mass or inappropriate emails.
Gaining access to other student’s accounts, files, and/or data.
Use of the school’s Google accounts for financial or commercial gain or for any illegal activity.
Use of anonymous accounts or impersonating others online.
Students are not allowed to give out personal information, for any reason, over the Internet. This includes, but is not limited to, setting up internet accounts including those necessary for chat rooms, eBay, email, etc.
Participation in credit card fraud, electronic forgery or other forms of illegal behavior.
Vandalism (any malicious attempt to harm or destroy hardware, software or data, including, but not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses or computer programs that can infiltrate computer systems and/or damage software components) of school equipment will not be allowed.
Transmission or accessing materials that are obscene, offensive, threatening or otherwise intended to harass or demean recipients.
Adding inappropriate wallpaper images that include things such as weapons, violence, sexuality, alcohol and drugs.
Using any wireless communications device in any bathroom or locker room.

Violations may result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension/expulsion for students. When applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved.  

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

Talk to your children about values and the standards that your children should follow in the use of the internet just as you do in the use of all media information sources such as television, phones, movies and radio. Should you want to opt out of taking a chromebook home you may indicate that the chromebook assigned to your child will stay at school each day. It will still be used in school but it will not go home. You will need to log in to the Infinite Campus Parent Portal to modify the settings on your child's account.
Check to see that your student's device comes to school charged each day.
Make sure that the chromebook is used by the student only, and not other family members.
Make sure that the chromebook and charger are returned to school at the appropriate times. 

School Responsibilities

Provide internet access
Provide a Google Apps for Education Account, including Gmail
Provide internet filtering of inappropriate materials as able
These will be treated similar to school lockers. HPS reserves the right to review, monitor, and restrict information stored on or transmitted via HPS District owned equipment and to investigate inappropriate use of resources.
Provide staff guidance to aid students in accessing, evaluating, and using information and ensure student compliance of the acceptable use policy.  

General Use

Use caution when eating or drinking near your chromebook.
Cords, cables, and removable storage devices must be inserted carefully into the chromebook to prevent damage.
Students should never carry their chromebook while the screen is open.
Do not stack any books, heavy materials, etc. on top of the chromebook in your locker or backpack. Anything placed on the chromebook may cause damage.
Do not close the chromebook with anything inside it (pencil, etc.). This can cause screen damage.
Students need to take their chromebooks home with them every night to charge them, or turn them in to the Student Success Office if parents have chosen that option.
Chromebooks should not be left unattended, particularly in The Commons (high school), unlocked classrooms, locker rooms, dressing rooms, hallways, bathrooms, buses, cars, or on school grounds.
Do not expose the chromebook to extreme temperature or direct sunlight for extended periods of time. Extreme heat or cold may cause damage.
Chromebook case personalization must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct.

Charging Your Battery

Average battery life should be 7 hours. If the chromebook is consistently losing its charge before the end of the school day, it needs to be turned in to the Technology Office for repair (high school only).
Chromebooks should be shut down or put to sleep (close the lid) when not in use to extend battery life.
Chromebooks must be brought to school each day fully charged. Students need to charge their chromebooks at home each evening. Students who do not bring their chromebooks to class charged may be given an alternate assignment.

Screen Care

Do not lean on the top of the chromebook when it is closed.
Do not carry your chromebook when it’s open, especially by holding on to the screen.
Do not place anything near the chromebook that could put pressure on the screen.
Do not place anything in the carrying case that will press against the cover.
Clean the screen with a soft cloth. If desired, you can lightly spray the cloth with a mild cleaner or water before cleaning.

School Use

Chromebooks are intended for use at school each day. In addition to teacher expectations for chromebook use, school messages, announcements, calendars, and schedules may be accessed using the chromebook. Students are responsible for bringing their chromebooks to all classes, unless specifically instructed not to do so by their teacher.
If students leave their chromebooks at home, they are responsible for getting the course work completed as if they had their chromebooks present.
If a student consistently does not bring his/her chromebook to class, parents will be contacted.

Chromebook Management

Holland Public Schools’ chromebooks are managed by the domain oaisd.org. Any attempt to remove the management will result in immediate disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, confiscation of the device.

Media, Sound, and Games

All photos (including desktop background) and videos must meet District Acceptable Use Guidelines.
Media that violates acceptable policy (guns, weapons, pornographic materials, inappropriate language, alcohol, drug, gang related symbols or pictures) will result in disciplinary action and may also result in a loss of chromebook privileges.
Music and games must serve an educational purpose and meet the Acceptable Use Guidelines.
Use of media, sound, and games must be in accordance with classroom procedures.

Chromebook Check-in and Check-out Repair

Chromebooks will be distributed each fall and collected each spring.
Parents and students must electronically sign the chromebook Agreement as part of the annual online registration process before the chromebook will be issued.

SUMMER: Students will turn in their chromebook at the end of the school year. Upon return to school the next year, the student will receive the same chromebook that was issued the previous year.

WITHDRAWAL: If a student withdraws from Holland Public, the chromebook and charger will be returned at the time of withdrawal. Students will be responsible for paying for any damages to the equipment, not to exceed the replacement cost of the chromebook. Failure to return the chromebook and charger may result in a warrant for arrest on theft charges.

Repair and Costs

Chromebooks that are broken or fail to work properly must be taken by the student to the HHS Technology Office in a timely manner.
If the chromebook must be sent off for repair, a temporary replacement will be provided for the interim.
The first incidence of damage is covered by the fee paid.
A second incidence of damage is billable at parts and labor cost.
If a chromebook is lost the student will need to pay full device replacement cost at the then-current price.
If a charger is lost the student will need to pay full charger replacement cost at the then-current price.
If a chromebook is stolen the family will need to provide police report documenting the theft to waive the replacement charge. Without a police report, the device will be considered lost and replacement cost charged to the family.

Educational Fee

Holland Public Schools will charge an annual $20 Educational Fee for the use of the chromebook and other student materials such as textbooks and lab equipment.

Home Internet Access and Filtering

Students are allowed to set up access to home wireless networks on their chromebooks. This will allow students to access resources needed to complete school work.
Chromebooks are content filtered (blocked from pornography, hate, violence, most social media) no matter what network they are on. Any student who attempts to bypass the content filter is in violation of the Acceptable Use Agreement and subject to disciplinary action. 

Saving to the Chromebook

Student work will be saved in the student’s Google Drive Account at hps21.org. Documents created in Google are automatically saved. Files that are created in or uploaded to Google Drive are accessible from any computer or chromebook. There is also limited access to GoogleDrive files on other devices including laptops, tablets, and smart phones.
Files that are saved locally on the chromebook (downloaded PDF’s, for example) are only available on that chromebook.

Apps and Extensions

HPS manages the apps and extensions that are available on the chromebook. Apps and extensions installed by the district are not to be removed by the student.
Any app or extension that violates the Acceptable Use Guidelines or that is deemed inappropriate for use in school is not to be installed on the chromebook.

Inspection

Chromebooks are property of the Holland Public School District and are subject to inspection at any time.
Reasons for chromebook inspection may include but are not limited to the following: functionality, maintenance, serviceability, and student conduct when using the chromebook.

Chromebook Operating System Updates

The chromebook will update automatically every time the device is connected to the Internet.

If a chromebook does not appear to be managed by oaisd.org, running slowly, or has trouble connecting to a network, the chromebook should be turned in for maintenance at the Holland High Technology Office.

Holland Public School’s 1:1 chromebook program is designed to provide equipment and resources that meet the needs of today’s students.

The Chromebook 1:1 Program helps to facilitate the OAISDs 7 Skills4Success:

Technology Literacy
Collaboration and Global Thinking
Effective Communication
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Flexibility and Adaptability
Ethical Citizenship and
Personal Accountability

Additionally, this program provides access to digital content both at home and at school whenever needed. More specific uses will be determined and communicated by classroom teachers.

Section 2

Student Responsibilities

Use of the chromebook is a privilege. The Holland Public School District owns the device and will loan them to the students as a tool to support their learning experience. Students will be expected to bring the chromebook to school fully charged each day and have them in class just as they would for any other required material.

As a technology device, chromebooks fall under the Acceptable Use Policy and the Technology Code of Ethics.

I understand that my chromebook is subject to inspection at any time without notice and remains the property of the Holland Public Schools.
I will take care of my chromebook.
I will never leave the chromebook unattended.
I will know where my chromebook is at all times.
I will charge my chromebook's battery daily.
I will be responsible for any damage caused by food or drink to my chromebook.
I will not disassemble any part of my chromebook or attempt any repairs.
I understand that my chromebook is for educational use.
I will only use school-appropriate decorations (such as stickers, etc.) on my chromebook case.
I will file a police report in case of theft or vandalism.
I will be responsible for all damage or loss caused by neglect or abuse.
I agree to return the chromebook and power cords in good working condition at required check-ins (i.e., withdrawal from school or summer).
I will notify an administrator if a threatening or inappropriate message is received.
I understand that my use of the chromebook is subject to all applicable District policies and regulations, the Student Handbook, Student Code of Conduct, and any individual campus procedures.

Student Activities Strictly Prohibited

Videotaping or photographing any individual, for non-educational use without their consent.
Illegal installation or transmission of copyrighted materials.
Any action that violates existing Board policy or public law.
Sending, accessing, uploading, downloading, or distributing offensive, profane, threatening, pornographic, obscene, or sexually explicit materials.
Use of chat rooms, sites selling term papers, book reports and other forms of student work.
Internet/Computer Games during instructional time.
Bypassing the HPS web filter through a web proxy.
Spamming-Sending mass or inappropriate emails.
Gaining access to other student’s accounts, files, and/or data.
Use of the school’s Google accounts for financial or commercial gain or for any illegal activity.
Use of anonymous accounts or impersonating others online.
Students are not allowed to give out personal information, for any reason, over the Internet. This includes, but is not limited to, setting up internet accounts including those necessary for chat rooms, eBay, email, etc.
Participation in credit card fraud, electronic forgery or other forms of illegal behavior.
Vandalism (any malicious attempt to harm or destroy hardware, software or data, including, but not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses or computer programs that can infiltrate computer systems and/or damage software components) of school equipment will not be allowed.
Transmission or accessing materials that are obscene, offensive, threatening or otherwise intended to harass or demean recipients.
Adding inappropriate wallpaper images that include things such as weapons, violence, sexuality, alcohol and drugs.
Using any wireless communications device in any bathroom or locker room.

Violations may result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension/expulsion for students. When applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved.

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

Talk to your children about values and the standards that your children should follow in the use of the internet just as you do in the use of all media information sources such as television, phones, movies and radio. Should you want to opt out of taking a chromebook home you may indicate that the chromebook assigned to your child will stay at school each day. It will still be used in school but it will not go home. You will need to log in to the Infinite Campus Parent Portal to modify the settings on your child's account.
Check to see that your student's device comes to school charged each day.
Make sure that the chromebook is used by the student only, and not other family members.
Make sure that the chromebook and charger are returned to school at the appropriate times.

School Responsibilities

Provide internet access
Provide a Google Apps for Education Account, including Gmail
Provide internet filtering of inappropriate materials as able
These will be treated similar to school lockers. HPS reserves the right to review, monitor, and restrict information stored on or transmitted via HPS District owned equipment and to investigate inappropriate use of resources.
Provide staff guidance to aid students in accessing, evaluating, and using information and ensure student compliance of the acceptable use policy.

General Use

Use caution when eating or drinking near your chromebook.
Cords, cables, and removable storage devices must be inserted carefully into the chromebook to prevent damage.
Students should never carry their chromebook while the screen is open.
Do not stack any books, heavy materials, etc. on top of the chromebook in your locker or backpack. Anything placed on the chromebook may cause damage.
Do not close the chromebook with anything inside it (pencil, etc.). This can cause screen damage.
Students need to take their chromebooks home with them every night to charge them, or turn them in to the Student Success Office if parents have chosen that option.
Chromebooks should not be left unattended, particularly in The Commons (high school), unlocked classrooms, locker rooms, dressing rooms, hallways, bathrooms, buses, cars, or on school grounds.
Do not expose the chromebook to extreme temperature or direct sunlight for extended periods of time. Extreme heat or cold may cause damage.
Chromebook case personalization must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct.

Charging Your Battery

Average battery life should be 7 hours. If the chromebook is consistently losing its charge before the end of the school day, it needs to be turned in to the Technology Office for repair (high school only).
Chromebooks should be shut down or put to sleep (close the lid) when not in use to extend battery life.
Chromebooks must be brought to school each day fully charged. Students need to charge their chromebooks at home each evening. Students who do not bring their chromebooks to class charged may be given an alternate assignment.

Screen Care

Do not lean on the top of the chromebook when it is closed.
Do not carry your chromebook when it’s open, especially by holding on to the screen.
Do not place anything near the chromebook that could put pressure on the screen.
Do not place anything in the carrying case that will press against the cover.
Clean the screen with a soft cloth. If desired, you can lightly spray the cloth with a mild cleaner or water before cleaning.

School Use

Chromebooks are intended for use at school each day. In addition to teacher expectations for chromebook use, school messages, announcements, calendars, and schedules may be accessed using the chromebook. Students are responsible for bringing their chromebooks to all classes, unless specifically instructed not to do so by their teacher.
If students leave their chromebooks at home, they are responsible for getting the course work completed as if they had their chromebooks present.
If a student consistently does not bring his/her chromebook to class, parents will be contacted.

Chromebook Management

Holland Public Schools’ chromebooks are managed by the domain oaisd.org. Any attempt to remove the management will result in immediate disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, confiscation of the device.

Media, Sound, and Games

All photos (including desktop background) and videos must meet District Acceptable Use Guidelines.
Media that violates acceptable policy (guns, weapons, pornographic materials, inappropriate language, alcohol, drug, gang related symbols or pictures) will result in disciplinary action and may also result in a loss of chromebook privileges.
Music and games must serve an educational purpose and meet the Acceptable Use Guidelines.
Use of media, sound, and games must be in accordance with classroom procedures.

Chromebook Check-in and Check-out Repair

Chromebooks will be distributed each fall and collected each spring.
Parents and students must electronically sign the chromebook Agreement as part of the annual online registration process before the chromebook will be issued.

SUMMER: Students will turn in their chromebook at the end of the school year. Upon return to school the next year, the student will receive the same chromebook that was issued the previous year.

WITHDRAWAL: If a student withdraws from Holland Public, the chromebook and charger will be returned at the time of withdrawal. Students will be responsible for paying for any damages to the equipment, not to exceed the replacement cost of the chromebook. Failure to return the chromebook and charger may result in a warrant for arrest on theft charges.

Repair and Costs

Chromebooks that are broken or fail to work properly must be taken by the student to the HHS Technology Office in a timely manner.
If the chromebook must be sent off for repair, a temporary replacement will be provided for the interim.
The first incidence of damage is covered by the fee paid.
A second incidence of damage is billable at parts and labor cost.
If a chromebook is lost the student will need to pay full device replacement cost at the then-current price.
If a charger is lost the student will need to pay full charger replacement cost at the then-current price.
If a chromebook is stolen the family will need to provide police report documenting the theft to waive the replacement charge. Without a police report, the device will be considered lost and replacement cost charged to the family.

Educational Fee

Holland Public Schools will charge an annual $20 Educational Fee for the use of the chromebook and other student materials such as textbooks and lab equipment.

Home Internet Access and Filtering

Students are allowed to set up access to home wireless networks on their chromebooks. This will allow students to access resources needed to complete school work.
Chromebooks are content filtered (blocked from pornography, hate, violence, most social media) no matter what network they are on. Any student who attempts to bypass the content filter is in violation of the Acceptable Use Agreement and subject to disciplinary action.                                                                           

Saving to the Chromebook

Student work will be saved in the student’s Google Drive Account at hps21.org. Documents created in Google are automatically saved. Files that are created in or uploaded to Google Drive are accessible from any computer or chromebook. There is also limited access to GoogleDrive files on other devices including laptops, tablets, and smart phones.
Files that are saved locally on the chromebook (downloaded PDF’s, for example) are only available on that chromebook.

Apps and Extensions

HPS manages the apps and extensions that are available on the chromebook. Apps and extensions installed by the district are not to be removed by the student.
Any app or extension that violates the Acceptable Use Guidelines or that is deemed inappropriate for use in school is not to be installed on the chromebook.

Inspection

Chromebooks are property of the Holland Public School District and are subject to inspection at any time.
Reasons for chromebook inspection may include but are not limited to the following: functionality, maintenance, serviceability, and student conduct when using the chromebook.                                                                            

Chromebook Operating System Updates

The chromebook will update automatically every time the device is connected to the Internet.
If a chromebook does not appear to be managed by oaisd.org, running slowly, or has trouble connecting to a network, the chromebook should be turned in for maintenance at the Holland High Technology Office.      

The Board of Education recognizes the value to the District and to the community of a program of interscholastic athletics for as many students as feasible. The program of interscholastic athletics should provide students the opportunity to exercise and test their athletic abilities in a context greater and more varied than that which can be offered by a school or the School District alone. The program should foster the growth of school loyalty with the student body as a whole and stimulate community interest in athletics. Game activities and practice sessions should provide many opportunities to teach the values of competition and good sportsmanship.

The Board believes that it is the purpose of an interscholastic program to provide the benefits of an athletic experience to as large a number of students as feasible within the District.

The Board further adopts those eligibility standards set by the Constitution of the Michigan High School Athletics Association (MHSAA) and shall review such standards annually to ascertain that they continue to be in conformity with the objectives of this Board.

Participation in all extra-curricular activities, including interscholastic athletics, is a privilege not a right. Students shall be bound by the school district’s policies as well as procedures and rules governing participation in such activities. Students should obtain the specific rules of conduct for the activity in which they are participating. A violation of the rules may jeopardize a student’s continuation in the program. Students officially suspended from the high school cannot participate in school sponsored extra-curricular activities during the length of the suspension.

The acceptance of participation in athletics involves a commitment by the participant to adhere to the “Athletic Code of Conduct” as developed by Holland Public Schools. It is the responsibility of the coaches and the Athletic Director to inform team members of the athletic code and to enforce the athletic code in a fair and consistent manner. It is the participant’s responsibility to be aware of the code of conduct and to adjust behavior accordingly so that it becomes unnecessary to enforce penalties associated with the code. Each participant will receive a written copy of the code. It is important that each parent and athlete read it carefully.

A student's use of a performance-enhancing substance is a violation that will affect the student's extracurricular participation.

Co-curricular/Extra-Curricular Activities

The Board of Education believes that the goals and objectives of this District are best achieved by a diversity of learning experiences, including those that are not conducted in a regular classroom but are directly related to the curriculum.

The purpose of curricular-related activities shall be to enable students to explore a wider range of individual interests than may be available in the District's courses of study but are directly related to accomplishing the educational outcomes for students as adopted by the Board in Policy 2131.

For purposes of this policy, curricular-related activities are defined as those activities in which:

A.  the subject matter is actually taught or will be taught in a regularly offered course; or

B.  the subject matter concerns the District's composite courses of study; or

C.  participation is required for a particular course; or

D.  participation results in academic credit.

Such activities, as well as extra-curricular activities not directly related to courses of study, may be conducted on or off school premises by clubs, associations, and organizations of students sponsored by the Board, and directed by a staff advisor.

No curricular-related activity shall be considered to be under the sponsorship of this Board unless it meets one or more of the criteria stated above and has been approved by the Superintendent.

 

The Board of Education acknowledges that conduct is closely related to learning and that an effective instructional program requires an orderly school environment, which is, in part, reflected in the behavior of students.

The Board believes that the best discipline is self-imposed and that students should learn to assume responsibility for their own behavior and the consequences of their actions.

The Board shall require each student of this District to adhere to the Code of Conduct promulgated by the administration and to submit to such disciplinary measures as are appropriately assigned for infraction of those rules in accordance with MCL 380.1312(8). Such rules shall require that students:

• conform to reasonable standards of socially-acceptable behavior;
• respect the person and property of others;
• preserve the degree of order necessary to the educational program in which they are engaged;
• respect the rights of others;
• obey constituted authority and respond to those who hold that authority.

A student may be removed or excluded from a classroom or a school when s/he poses a continuing danger to persons or property or represents an on-going threat of disrupting the educational process taking place in the classroom or the school premises. Such removal must typically be for a period of not more than one school day without being subject to suspension and expulsion procedures. The School Board, or the school district superintendent, a school building principal, or another school district official if designated by the school board, may authorize or order the suspension or expulsion from school.

Mandatory Permanent Expulsion means a permanent expulsion from school for 180 days subject to possible reinstatement. This includes if a pupil possesses a weapon in a weapons free school zone a weapon that constitutes a dangerous weapon, commits arson in a school building or on school grounds, or commits criminal sexual conduct in a school building or on school grounds or if the student is in grades 6-12 and physically assaults a person employed by or engaged as a volunteer or contractor by the school board. A student in grades Tk-5 who commits assault may be long-term suspended up to 60 days or expelled 60-180 days.

The Board or designee shall expel the pupil in grades 6-12 from the school district permanently subject to possible reinstatement. A student may not be expelled for a weapon if there is clear and convincing evidence that the weapon in possession was not possessed as a weapon, or for delivery for use as a weapon, not knowingly possessed, the pupil did not know it was a weapon, or the weapon was possessed at the suggestion, request, or permission of school or police.

Expel means to exclude a pupil from school for disciplinary reasons for a period of 60 or more school days. If a student is in grades 6-12 and commits a physical assault at school against another pupil, then the board/designee shall expel the pupil from the district for 180 days. A student in grades 6-12 who commits verbal assault or makes a bomb threat or similar threat directed at a school building, event or property, shall be suspended or expelled for a period of time as determined by the board/designee. This may also include persistent disobedience or disorderly conduct.

Suspend means to exclude a pupil from school for disciplinary reasons of fewer than 60 days. The Superintendent or designee may suspend a student for a period longer than ten (10) days or expel a student. The Board shall act on any appeal to the decision. A building principal, assistant principal or site supervisor may suspend a student for up to ten (10) days.

Preliminary Hearing Process  

No student may be suspended without a hearing unless a clear and present danger exists, or it is otherwise impossible or unreasonably difficult to hold such hearing. In such instances, the necessary notice and hearing shall follow as soon as practicable.

The principal or designee shall provide the student with an oral or written notice of the charge(s) against him/her and shall provide a due process meeting for the student before a suspension is ordered so that the student has a full opportunity to state why s/he should not be suspended. This due process meeting shall be an informal one in which the student is given a chance to respond to the charges and present any witnesses. The student's parents shall be informed of the charges and the date of the due process meeting, unless a clear and present danger exists. The due process meeting shall be held on the day of the alleged infraction or as soon thereafter as possible if an emergency prohibits an immediate meeting.

District Level Disciplinary Hearing

District level hearings are coordinated through the office of Student Services for students who have been recommended by the building level administration for long-term suspension-greater than 10 days, expulsion or mandatory expulsion. The hearing is conducted before the Superintendent who has been authorized to conduct disciplinary hearing on behalf of the board. The tenants of this process is outlined below.

The notice must be provided to the student and the student's parent and shall contain:

1. the rule(s) alleged to have been violated;
2. the charges against the student;
3. approximate date of the violation;
4. the time and place for the hearing;
5. a statement of the student's and parents' prehearing rights:
   1. to review written statements about the alleged misconduct, unless their disclosure would cause significant disruption to education or safety of students,
   2. to review the student's records, and
   3. to request a delay in the hearing of up to ten (10) school days;
6. the length of time the administration is recommending the student be denied enrollment;
7. a statement of the student's hearing rights:
   1. to counsel; (permitted only when the student is also subject to criminal charges arising out of the alleged Code of Conduct violation and only upon prior notice to the Superintendent);
   2. to a translator;
   3. to appear in his/her own behalf and for parents or guardians to appear;
   4. to present evidence on his/her behalf;
8. The Superintendent must conduct the hearing closed to the public. An advocate for the student shall be permitted only with the written consent of the parents or student if student is 18 or older. The parents may appeal the expulsion to the Board, in writing, within ten (10) days after receipt of the notice. The parents shall state in the appeal the reasons they think the Superintendent's decision is not justified and provide any extenuating circumstances they wish the Board to consider. The Board may conduct a hearing or respond with its decision in writing within twenty (20) school days after it receives the appeal.

Notice of expulsion will be sent to the Juvenile Division of the Probate Court for students at ages six (6) through fifteen (15). The court should be informed that the Board has expelled the student and provided the reason for expulsion.

Notice may be sent to the Juvenile Division of the Probate Court for students, ages sixteen (16) and seventeen (17), where the District believes that the court should review the circumstances surrounding the expulsion. The District may provide a copy of the public record to the court.

Students expelled under section 1311(2) of the Michigan Revised School Code shall be referred to the appropriate county department of social services or county community mental health agency, within three (3) days of expulsion.     

If a student with disabilities violates the Code of Conduct and is subject to suspension of more than ten (10) days or expulsion, a meeting of the student's Multi-disciplinary Educational Team (Team) will be convened to determine whether or not there is a causal relationship between the behavior and the disability.

If there is a reasonable cause to believe that the student may be a student with a disability, and the individual has not been evaluated in accordance with the rules of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, then the student shall be immediately referred to the Intermediate School District for evaluation.

Prior to such a meeting, the principal shall ensure that a recent evaluation (not more than one (1) year old) is available for use by the Team to help them determine causal relationship. If no recent evaluation is available, then one is to be completed prior to the conference.

If the Team determines that there is no causal relationship between the behavior and the disability, the student may be suspended or expelled using the procedure described in AG 5610 - Suspension/Expulsion of Nondisabled Students.

If the Team establishes a causal relationship between the behavior and the disability, then the student may not be suspended for more than ten (10) days at a time or expelled. Cumulative suspensions of over ten (10) days in a school year must be assessed to determine if they constitute a significant change in placement.

Emergency removal of a student with disabilities from his/her current placement may take place through parental agreement to an interim placement or through injunctive relief from a court, when the current placement presents a substantial likelihood of resulting in injury to the student or others.

Emergency Removal

A student may be removed or excluded from a classroom or a school when s/he poses a continuing danger to persons or property or represents an on-going threat of disrupting the educational process taking place in the classroom or the school premises. Such removal must typically be for a period of not more than one school day without being subject to suspension and expulsion procedures.

If a member of the school faculty removes a student, under his/her supervision, from a classroom or activity, barring extenuating circumstances, s/he must submit to the principal written reasons for the removal the day the removal occurs. The Assistant Director of Students Services shall be notified the same day.

A hearing must be held in accordance with the suspension or expulsion requirements depending on the probable outcome of the hearing. The person who caused, ordered, or requested the removal should be present. Prior to the hearing, due process rights shall be provided to the student in writing. In addition, a manifestation determination review (MDR) or violence risk assessment (VRA) shall be conducted, if applicable.

Written notice must be provided to the student and the parent as soon as practicable prior to the hearing. If the probable outcome of the hearing is suspension, the hearing procedures applicable to a suspension must be applied. If the probable outcome is expulsion of the student, the hearing procedures applicable to an expulsion must be followed.

Factors for Considering Disciplinary Consequences: For an offense constituting persistent disobedience or gross misconduct, the following factors shall be considered prior to suspending or expelling a student:

• the student’s age
• the student’s disciplinary history
• whether the student has a disability
• the seriousness of the violation or behavior
• whether the violation or behavior committed by the student threatened the safety of any student or staff member
• whether restorative practices will be used to address the violation or behavior
• whether a lesser intervention would properly address the violation or behavior.

These factors are considered for all disciplinary situations greater than 10 day with the exception of if a student is in possession of a firearm.

The principal shall have the authority to assign discipline to students, subject to District administrative guidelines and the student's due process right to notice, hearing, and appeal. This may include off-campus behavior when a student’s conduct at any other time or place has a direct and immediate effect on maintaining order and discipline, or on protecting the safety and welfare of students or school district staff. In addition, when a student is using school telecommunications networks, accounts, or other district services.

Teachers and other employees of this Board having authority over students shall have the authority to take such means as may be necessary to control the disorderly conduct of students in all situations and in all places where such students are within the jurisdiction of this Board, when such conduct interferes with the educational program of the schools or threatens the health and safety of others.

Search and Seizure

Pursuant to Board of Education Policy 5771, the following guidelines shall be used when school administrators have reasonable suspicion that a student may have in his/her possession evidence that a specific rule or law has been violated:

A.  All requests or suggestions for the search of a student or his/her possessions shall be directed to the principal or the person in charge of the students while out of the District.

B.  Wherever possible, before conducting the search, the building administrator shall notify the student, request his/her consent to the inspection if other than his/her locker, and inform the student that s/he may withhold consent. Such consent, if offered, shall be given voluntarily and with the knowledge that it could have been withheld. The principal shall conduct the search, however, with or without the consent.

C.  Wherever possible, an adult third party shall be present at any search of a student or his/her possessions.

D.  The principal may conduct a student search upon reasonable suspicion to suspect the presence of an illegal or dangerous substance or object, or anything contraband under school rules.

E.  The principal shall be responsible for the custody, control, and disposition of any illegal or dangerous substance or object taken from a student, whether during a student search or otherwise.

F.  Wherever possible, the student may be present at any search of his/her possessions.

G.  The principal shall be responsible for the prompt recording of each student search. The record shall be in writing and shall include the reasons for the search, the persons present, the objects found, and the disposition made of them, and shall be kept in a secure location in his/her office.

H.  Whenever the search is prompted by the reasonable suspicion that possession of a substance or object immediately threatens the safety and health of the student or others, the principal shall act with as much speed and dispatch as is required to protect persons and property in the school while keeping clearly in mind the student's rights and the potential consequences of inappropriate or hasty action.

Reasonable Suspicion

As used in this section, "reasonable suspicion for a search" means grounds sufficient to cause an adult of normal intellect to believe that the search of a particular person, place, or thing will lead to the discovery of evidence that the student:

A.  has violated or is violating a rule or behavioral norm contained in the student handbook;

B.  has violated or is violating a particular law;

C.  possesses an item or substance which presents an immediate danger of physical harm or illness to students and staff or District property.

Lockers and Other Storage Areas Provided for Student Use

A.  All lockers and other storage areas provided for student use remain the property of the District. These lockers and storage areas are subject to inspection, access for maintenance, and search pursuant to these guidelines. A student using the locker or storage area has, by statute, no expectation of privacy in that locker or storage area or the contents contained therein (See Form 5771 F1). In the course of any search, student’s privacy rights will be respected regarding any items that are not illegal or against Board policy. No student shall lock or otherwise impede access to any locker or storage area except with a lock provided by or approved by the principal. Unapproved locks will be removed and destroyed.

B.  The principal may search student lockers and storage areas and the contents contained therein at any time for any justifiable reason.

C.  The principal may, at any time, request assistance of the police having jurisdiction over the facilities of the District. The law enforcement officer must have probable cause, however, to conduct a search of the lockers and storage areas and the contents contained therein.

Desks and Other Storage Areas

A desk or any other storage area in the school provided for student use as well as the contents contained therein, may be searched when the principal has reasonable suspicion for a search.

Vehicles

A.  Any vehicle brought on District premises by a student may be searched when the principal has reasonable suspicion to justify the search.

B.  One of the conditions for granting permission for a student to bring a student-operated vehicle onto school premises is written consent by the student driver, the owner of the vehicle, and the parent of the student to allow search of that vehicle. Refusal by any of the parties to provide or allow access to a vehicle at the time of a search request shall be cause for terminating the privilege without further hearing.

C.  Searches of vehicles of staff members or visitors shall be conducted by law enforcement personnel.

Student

A.  The personal search of a student may be conducted by the principal when s/he has reasonable suspicion for a search of that student. Authorized searches of the student's person are:

1.  the student's pockets;

2.  purses, briefcases, or any other object in the possession of the student;

3.  a "pat down" of the exterior of the student's clothing and the removal of any item identified;

4.  removal of an article of exterior clothing such as a jacket.

B.  Strip searches are to be conducted only by law enforcement personnel.

C.  Personal searches shall be conducted in a private room by a person of the same gender as the student and designated by the principal. At least one (1) but not more than three (3) additional staff members of the same gender as the student being searched shall witness but not participate in the search.

At the request of the student to be searched, an additional person of the same gender as the student designated by the student, and then reasonably available on school premises, shall witness the search. The student's parents shall be notified of the search as soon as reasonably possible.

Anything found in the course of a search which is evidence of a student violation of school rules or Federal/State laws may be seized and admitted as evidence in any suspension or expulsion proceeding if it is tagged for identification at the time it is seized and kept in a secure place by the principal until it is presented at the hearing. It may also be turned over to any law enforcement officer after proper notation and receipt.

Student Seclusion and Restraint

This policy is intended to provide the framework for organizational supports that result in effective interventions based on team-based leadership, data-based decision-making, continuous monitoring of student behavior, regular universal screening and effective on-going professional development. The District is committed to investing in prevention efforts and to teach, practice and reinforce behaviors that result in positive academic and social outcomes for students.

In the event that staff members need to restrain and/or seclude students, it must be done in accordance with this policy, which is intended to:

A.  promote the care, safety, welfare and security of the school community and the dignity of each student;

B.  encourage the use of proactive, effective, evidence and research based strategies and best practices to reduce the occurrence of challenging behaviors, eliminate the use of seclusion and restraint, and increase meaningful instructional time for all students; and

C.  ensure that seclusion and restraint are used only as a last resort in an emergency situation and are subject to diligent assessment, monitoring, documentation and reporting by trained personnel.

In furtherance of these objectives, the District will utilize Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to enhance academic and social behavior outcomes for all students. PBIS implemented by the District will include socially valued and measurable outcomes, empirically validated and practical practices, systems that efficiently and effectively support implementation of these practices, and continuous collection and use of data for decision-making.

EMERGENCY SECLUSION

A.  Prohibited Practices and Limitations on Use

1. The following practices are prohibited under all circumstances, including emergency situations:
2. confinement of students who are severely self-injurious or suicidal
3. corporal punishment, as defined in M.C.L. 380.1312(1) of the revised school code, 1976 PA 451
4. the deprivation of basic needs
5. anything constituting child abuse
6. seclusion of pre-school children
7. seclusion that is used for the convenience of school personnel
8. seclusion as a substitute for an educational program
9. seclusion as a form of discipline or punishment
10. seclusion as a substitute for less restrictive alternatives, adequate staffing or school personnel training in PBIS
11. when contraindicated based on (as documented in a record or records made available to the school) a student's disability, health care needs, or medical or psychiatric condition

B.  Definition of Emergency Seclusion

Seclusion means the confinement of a student in a room or other space from which the student is physically prevented from leaving. Seclusion does not include the general confinement of students if that confinement is an integral part of an emergency lockdown drill required under Section 19(5) of the Fire Prevention Code, 1941 PA 207, M.C.L. 29.19, or of another emergency security procedure that is necessary to protect the safety of students.

Emergency seclusion is a last resort emergency safety intervention involving seclusion that is necessitated by an ongoing emergency situation and that provides an opportunity for the student to regain self-control while maintaining the safety of the student and others.

To qualify as emergency seclusion, there must be continuous observation by school personnel of the student and the room or area used for confinement:

1. must not be locked
2. must not prevent the student from exiting the area should staff become incapacitated or leave that area
3. must provide for adequate space, lighting, ventilation, viewing, and the safety of the student
4. must comply with State and local fire and building codes

C.  Time and Duration Emergency seclusion should not be used any longer than necessary, based on research and evidence, to allow a student to regain control of his/her behavior to the point that the emergency situation necessitating the use of emergency seclusion is ended, but generally no longer than:

1.  fifteen (15) minutes for an elementary school student;

2.  twenty (20) minutes for a middle school or high school student

If an emergency seclusion lasts longer than the suggested maximum times above, the following are required:

1.  additional support (which may include change of staff, introducing a nurse or specialist, or additional key identified personnel)

2.  documentation to explain the extension beyond the time limit

Additional procedures and requirements applicable to both seclusion and restraint are set out below.

A.  Prohibited Practices

1. The following procedures are prohibited under all circumstances, including emergency situations:
2. mechanical restraint
3. chemical restraint
4. corporal punishment as defined in 380.1312(1) of the revised school code, 1976 PA 451, otherwise known as the Corporal Punishment Act
5. the deprivation of basic needs
6. anything constituting child abuse
7. restraint that is used for the convenience of school personnel
8. restraint as a substitute for an educational program
9. restraint as a form of discipline or punishment
10. restraint as a substitute for less restrictive alternatives, adequate staffing or school personnel training in PBIS
11. when contraindicated based on (as documented in a record or records made available to the school) a student's disability, health care needs, or medical or psychiatric condition
12. any restraint that negatively impacts breathing, including any positions, whether on the floor, facedown, seated or kneeling, in which the student's physical position (e.g., bent over) is such that it is difficult to breathe, including situations that involve sitting or lying across an individual's back or stomach
13. prone restraint (the restraint of a person face down)
    1. NOTE: School personnel who find themselves involved in the use of a prone restraint as the result of responding to an emergency must take immediate steps to end the prone restraint.
14. the intentional application of any noxious substance(s) or stimuli that results in physical pain or extreme discomfort
    1. A noxious substance or stimuli can either be generally acknowledged or specific to the student.
15. physical restraint, other than emergency physical restraint
16. any other type of restraint not expressly allowed

B.  Definition of Restraint

Restraint means an action that prevents or significantly restricts a student's movement. Physical restraint is intended for the purposes of emergency situations only, in which a student's behavior poses imminent risk to the safety of the individual student or to the safety of others. An emergency situation requires an immediate intervention.

Emergency physical restraint is a last resort emergency safety intervention involving physical restraint that is necessitated by an ongoing emergency situation and that provide an opportunity for the student to retain self-control while maintaining the safety of the student and others. An emergency situation requires an immediate intervention. Emergency physical restraint may not be used in place of appropriate less restrictive interventions.

There are three (3) types of restraint: physical, chemical, and mechanical.

1.  Physical restraint involves direct physical contact.

Restraint does not include actions undertaken for the following reasons:

a.  to break up a fight

b.  to take a weapon away from a student

c.  to briefly hold the student (by an adult) in order to calm or comfort him/her

d.  to have the minimum contact necessary to physically escort a student from one area to another

e.  to assist a student in completing a task/response if the student does not resist or if resistance is minimal in intensity or duration

f.  to hold a student for a brief time in order to prevent an impulsive behavior that threatens the student's immediate safety (e.g., running in front of a car)

g.  to stop a physical assault as defined in M.C.L. 380.1310

h.  actions that are an integral part of a sporting event, such as a referee pulling football players off from a pile or similar action

2.  Chemical Restraint is the administration of medication for the purpose of restraint.

Restraint does not include administration of medication prescribed by and administered in accordance with the directions of a physician.

3.  Mechanical Restraint means the use of any device, article, garment, or material attached to or adjacent to a student's body to perform restraint.

Restraint does not include the following:

a.  an adaptive or protective device recommended by a physician or therapist (when it is used as recommended)

b.  safety equipment used by the general student population as intended (e.g., seat belts, safety harness on school transportation)

C.  Time and Duration

Restraint should not be used:

1.  any longer than necessary, based on research and evidence, to allow students to regain control of their behavior to the point that the emergency situation necessitating the use of emergency physical restraint is ended; and

2.  generally no longer than ten (10) minutes.

If an emergency restraint lasts longer than ten (10) minutes, all of the following are required:

1.  additional support, which may include a change of staff, or introducing a nurse, specialist, or additional key identified personnel

2.  documentation to explain the extension beyond the time limit

Additional procedures and requirements applicable to both seclusion and restraint are set out below.

USE OF EMERGENCY SECLUSION/RESTRAINT

A.  When to Use Emergency Seclusion/Restraint

Seclusion/restraint must be used only under emergency situations and if essential. Emergency situation means a situation in which a student's behavior poses imminent risk to the safety of the individual student or to the safety of others. An emergency situation requires an immediate intervention.

B.  General Procedures for Emergency Seclusion/Restraint:

1.  An emergency seclusion/restraint may not be used in place of appropriate, less restrictive interventions.

2.  Emergency seclusion/restraint shall be performed in a manner that is:

a.  safe;

b.  appropriate; and

c.  proportionate to and sensitive to the student's:

1)  severity of behavior;

2)  chronological and developmental age;

3)  physical size;

4)  gender;

5)  physical condition;

6)  medical condition;

7)  psychiatric condition; and

8)  personal history, including any history of physical or sexual abuse or other trauma.

3.  School personnel shall call key identified personnel for help from within the school building either immediately at the onset of an emergency situation or, if it is reasonable under the particular circumstances for school personnel to believe that diverting their attention to calling for help would increase the risk to the safety of the student or to the safety of others, as soon as possible once the circumstances no longer support such a belief.

4.  While using emergency seclusion/restraint, staff must do all of the following:

a.  involve key identified personnel to protect the care, welfare, dignity, and safety of the student

b.  continually observe the student in emergency seclusion for indications of physical distress and seek medical assistance if there is a concern

c.  document observations

d.  ensure to the extent practicable, in light of the ongoing emergency situation, that the emergency seclusion/restraint does not interfere with the student's ability to communicate using the student's primary mode of communication

e.  ensure that at all times during the use of emergency seclusion/restraint there are school personnel present who can communicate with the student using the student's primary mode of communication

5.  Each use of an emergency seclusion/restraint and the reason for each use shall be documented and reported according to the following procedures:

a.  document in writing and report in writing or orally to the building administration immediately

b.  report in writing or orally to the parent or guardian immediately

c.  a report shall be written for each use of seclusion/restraint (including multiple uses within a given day) and the written report(s) provided to the parent or guardian within the earlier of one (1) school day or seven (7) calendar days

6.  After any use of an emergency seclusion/restraint, staff must make reasonable efforts to debrief and consult with the parent or guardian, or the parent or guardian and the student (as appropriate) regarding the determination of future actions.

C.  Students Exhibiting a Pattern of Behavior

If a student exhibits a pattern of behavior that poses a substantial risk of creating an emergency situation in the future that could result in the use of emergency seclusion/restraint, school personnel should do the following:

1.  conduct a functional behavioral assessment

2.  develop or revise a PBIS plan to facilitate the reduction or elimination of the use of seclusion/restraint

3.  develop an assessment and planning process conducted by a team knowledgeable about the student, including at least:

a.  the parent or guardian

b.  the student (if appropriate)

c.  people who are responsible for implementation of the PBIS plan

d.  people who are knowledgeable in PBIS

4.  develop a written emergency intervention plan ("EIP") to protect the health, safety, and dignity of the student. An EIP may not expand the legally permissible use of emergency seclusion/restraint.

The EIP should be developed by a team in partnership with the parent or guardian. The team shall include:

1.  a teacher;

2.  an individual knowledgeable about legally permissibly use of seclusion/restraint; and

3.  an individual knowledgeable about the use of PBIS to eliminate the use of seclusion/restraint.

The EIP should be developed and implemented by taking all of the following documented steps:

1.  describe in detail the emergency intervention procedures

2.  describe in detail the legal limits on the use of emergency seclusion/restraint, including examples of legally permissible and prohibited uses

3.  inquire of the student's medical personnel (with parent or guardian consent) regarding any known medical or health contraindications for the use of seclusion/restraint

4.  conduct a peer review by knowledgeable staff

5.  provide the parent or guardian with all of the following, in writing and orally:

a.  A detailed explanation of the PBIS strategies that will reduce the risk of the student's behavior creating an emergency situation.

b.  An explanation of what constitutes an emergency, including examples of situations that would fall within and outside of the definition.

c.  A detailed explanation of the intervention procedures to be followed in an emergency situation, including the potential use of emergency seclusion/restraint.

d.  A description of possible discomforts or risks.

e.  A detailed explanation of the legal limits on the use of emergency seclusion/restraint, including examples of legally permissible and prohibited uses.

f.  Answers to any questions.

A student who is the subject of an EIP should be told or shown the circumstances under which emergency intervention could be used.

D.  Data Collection and Reporting

The building administrator shall develop a system of data collection, collect the data and forward all incident reports and data regarding the use of seclusion/restraint.

The data must:

1.  be analyzed to determine the efficacy of the school's school-wide system of behavioral support;

2.  be analyzed in the context of suspension, expulsion, and dropout data;

3.  be analyzed for the purposes of continuous improvement of training and technical assistance toward the reduction or elimination of seclusion/restraint;

4.  be analyzed on a schedule determined by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE);`

5.  be reported to the MDE, if and as required;

6.  include a list of appropriately trained, identified personnel and their levels of:

a.  education;

b.  training; and

c.  knowledge.

NOTE: The District must report to the MDE on the use of seclusion and restraint periodically. MDE will develop guidelines that outline the process for reporting redacted, aggregated data regarding the emergency use of seclusion and restraint.

Training Framework

A comprehensive training framework will be implemented which includes the following:

A.  awareness training for all school personnel who have regular contact with students; and

B.  comprehensive training for key identified personnel.

All substitute teachers must be informed of and understand the procedures regarding the use of emergency seclusion and emergency restraint. This requirement may be satisfied using online training developed or approved by MDE and online acknowledgement of understanding and completion of the training by the substitute teacher.

Comprehensive Training for Identified Personnel

Each building administrator will identify sufficient key personnel to ensure that trained personnel are generally available for an emergency situation. Before using emergency seclusion or emergency physical restraint with students, key identified personnel who may have to respond to an emergency safety situation must be trained in all of the following:

A.  proactive practices and strategies that ensure the dignity of students

B.  conflict resolution

C.  mediation

D.  social skills training

E.  de-escalation techniques

F.  positive behavioral intervention and support strategies

G.  techniques to identify student behaviors that may trigger emergency safety situations

H.  related safety considerations, including information regarding the increased risk of injury to students and staff when seclusion or restraint is used

I.  instruction in the use of emergency seclusion and emergency physical restraint

J.  identification of events and environmental factors that may trigger emergency safety situations

K.  instruction on the State policy on the use of seclusion and restraint

L.  description and identification of dangerous behaviors

M.  methods for evaluating the risk of harm to determine whether the use of emergency seclusion or emergency physical restraint is warranted

N.  types of seclusion

O.  types of restraint

P.  the risk of using seclusion and restraint in consideration of a student's known and unknown medical or psychological limitations

Q.  cardiopulmonary resuscitation and first aid

R.  the effects of seclusion and restraint on all students

S.  how to monitor for and identify physical signs of distress and the implications for students generally and for students with particular physical or mental health conditions or psychological limitations

T.  ways to obtain appropriate medical assistance

Reasonable Physical Force may be used as necessary to maintain order and control in a school or school-related setting for the purpose of providing an environment conducive to safety and learning.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

"Chemical Restraint" means the administration of medication for the purpose of restraint.

"De-escalation Techniques" means evidence- and research-based strategically employed verbal or nonverbal interventions used to reduce the intensity of threatening behavior before, during, and after a crisis situation occurs.

"Documentation" means documentation developed by the Michigan Department of Education that is uniform across the State.

"Emergency Situation" means a situation in which a student's behavior poses imminent risk to the safety of the individual student or to the safety of others. An emergency situation requires an immediate intervention.

"Functional Behavioral Assessment" means an evidence- and research-based systematic process for identifying the events that trigger and maintain problem behavior in an educational setting. A functional behavioral assessment shall describe specific problematic behaviors, report the frequency of the behaviors, assess environmental and other setting conditions where problematic behaviors occur, and identify the factors that are maintaining the behaviors over time.

"Key Identified Personnel" means those individuals who have received the mandatory training described in M.C.L. 380.1307G(B)(I) to (XVI), listed under Comprehensive Training for Identified Personnel above.

"Mechanical Restraint" means the use of any device, article, garment, or material attached to or adjacent to a student's body to perform restraint.

"Physical Restraint" means restraint involving direct physical contact.

"Positive Behavioral Intervention and Support (PBIS)" means a framework to assist school personnel in adopting and organizing evidence-based behavioral interventions into an integrated continuum of intensifying supports based on student need that unites examination of the function of the problem behavior and the teaching of alternative skill repertoires to enhance academic and social behavior outcomes for all students.

"Positive Behavioral Intervention and Support Plan" means a student-specific support plan composed of individualized, functional behavioral assessment-based intervention strategies, including, as appropriate to the student, guidance or instruction for the student to use new skills as a replacement for problem behaviors, some rearrangement of the antecedent environment so that problems can be prevented and desirable behaviors can be encouraged, and procedures for monitoring, evaluating, and modifying the plan as necessary.

"Prone Restraint" means the restraint of an individual face down.

"Regularly and Continuously Work Under Contract" means that term as defined in section M.C.L. 380.1230.

"Restraint" means an action that prevents or significantly restricts a student's movement. Restraint does not include the brief holding of a student in order to calm or comfort, the minimum contact necessary to physically escort a student from one area to another, the minimum contact necessary to assist a student in completing a task or response if the student does not resist or resistance is minimal in intensity or duration, or the holding of a student for a brief time in order to prevent an impulsive behavior that threatens the student's immediate safety, such as running in front of a car. Restraint does not include the administration of medication prescribed by and administered in accordance with the directions of a physician, an adaptive or protective device recommended by a physician or therapist when it is used as recommended, or safety equipment used by the general student population as intended, such as a seat belt or safety harness on school transportation. Restraint does not include necessary actions taken to break up a fight, to stop a physical assault, as defined in M.C.L. 380.1310, or to take a weapon from a student. Restraint does not include actions that are an integral part of a sporting event, such as a referee pulling football players off of a pile or a similar action.

Restraint that negatively impacts breathing means any restraint that inhibits breathing, including floor restraints, facedown position, or any position in which an individual is bent over in such a way that it is difficult to breathe. This includes a seated or kneeling position in which an individual being restrained is bent over at the waist and restraint that involves sitting or lying across an individual's back or stomach.

"School Personnel" includes all individuals employed in a public school or assigned to regularly and continuously work under contract or under agreement in a public school, or public school personnel providing service at a nonpublic school.

"Seclusion" means the confinement of a student in a room or other space from which the student is physically prevented from leaving. Seclusion does not include the general confinement of students if that confinement is an integral part of an emergency lockdown drill required under Section 19(5) of the Fire Prevention Code, 1941 PA 207, M.C.L. 29.19, or of another emergency security procedure that is necessary to protect the safety of student.

Adapted from Michigan State Board of Education Policy for the Emergency Use of Seclusion and Restraint adopted in March of 2017

 

The following list of behaviors that may fall under the code of conduct is not exhaustive, and includes, but is not limited too:

Academic Dishonesty

Academic honesty is based on respect for individual achievement that lies at the heart of any school. This requires that students produce work that is completely their own or that correctly acknowledges the contributions of other people and sources.

Examples of Academic Dishonesty

Using notes, aids, or another student’s assistance to complete a test, project or other assignment in a way other than what the teacher has allowed.
Looking at another student’s test, answer sheet, or other materials during a test period.
Copying from, or allowing another student to copy from, a test, homework, or course work which is not intended to be group work.

All types of plagiarism including:

Omitting quotation marks for directly quoted material (whether from a book, magazine, internet source, or other writer).
Omitting bibliographic references either in the text or on a source page at the end of the document.
Using an author’s ideas by paraphrasing (rewording and/or rearranging words and ideas) without proper citation.

Anti-Harassment

It is the policy of the Board of Education to maintain an education and work environment that is free from all forms of unlawful harassment, including sexual harassment. This commitment applies to all School District operations, programs, and activities. All students, administrators, teachers, staff, and all other school personnel share responsibility for avoiding, discouraging, and reporting any form of unlawful harassment. This policy applies to unlawful conduct occurring on school property, or at another location if such conduct occurs during an activity sponsored by the Board.

The Board will vigorously enforce its prohibition against discriminatory harassment based on race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and transgender identity), disability, age (except as authorized by law), religion, height, weight, martial or family status, military status ancestry, or genetic information (collectively, "Protected Classes") that are protected by Federal civil rights laws (hereinafter referred to as unlawful harassment), and encourages those within the School District community as well as third parties, who feel aggrieved to seek assistance to rectify such problems. The Board will investigate all allegations of unlawful harassment and in those cases where unlawful harassment is substantiated, the Board will take immediate steps to end the harassment, prevent its recurrence, and remedy its effects. Individuals who are found to have engaged in unlawful harassment will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.

For purposes of this policy, "School District community" means students, administrators, and professional and support staff, as well as Board members, agents, volunteers, contractors, or other persons subject to the control and supervision of the Board.

For purposes of this policy, "third parties" include, but are not limited to, guests and/or visitors on School District property (e.g., visiting speakers, participants on opposing athletic teams, parents), vendors doing business with, or seeking to do business with, the Board, and other individuals who come in contact with members of the School District community at school-related events/activities (whether on or off School District property).

Discipline on District Vehicles

This shall be the responsibility of the driver on regular bus runs. When District vehicles are used for field trips and other District activities, however, the teacher, coach, or advisor shall be responsible for student discipline. If a student becomes a serious discipline problem on the vehicle, the Superintendent may suspend the transportation privileges of the student providing such suspension conforms with due process.

Displays of Affection

Students demonstrating affection between each other is personal and not meant for public display. This includes touching, petting, or any other contact that may be considered sexual in nature. If such behavior is exhibited, the administrative response will include progressive discipline.

Disorderly Conduct

Students may also be disciplined for disorderly conduct. Disorderly conduct shall mean any unlawful student assemblage; or group/individual act of violence, disruption, vandalism, or building seizure; or interference with the functioning of school personnel or any student or group of students. Actions by a student(s) to interfere materially or substantially with the operations of the School District by defacing or destroying school property, by rioting, breaking-in, sitting-in, lying-in, smashing-in, or picketing to force students not to cross picket lines may be punished to the full extent of the law and Board policies.

Respect for law and for those persons in authority shall be expected of all students. This includes conformity to school rules as well as general provisions of law regarding minors. Respect for the rights of others, consideration of their privileges, and cooperative citizenship shall also be expected of all members of the school community.

Respect for real and personal property; pride in one's work; achievement within the range of one's ability; and exemplary personal standards of courtesy, decency, and honesty should be maintained in the schools of this District.

Dress Code

For the 2020-2021 school year, facial mask coverings are required of all students upon arrival at school, during the school day, departure for school, and on all district modes of transportation unless during a supervised sensory break activity.

The Board of Education recognizes that each student's mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference. The Board will not interfere with the right of students and their parents to make decisions regarding their appearance, except when their choices interfere with the educational program of the schools.

Accordingly, the Superintendent shall establish such grooming guidelines as are necessary to promote discipline, maintain order, secure the safety of students, and provide a healthy environment conducive to academic purposes. Such guidelines shall prohibit student dress or grooming practices which:

• present a hazard to the health or safety of the student himself/herself or to others in the school;
• interfere with school work, create disorder, or disrupt the educational program;
• cause excessive wear or damage to school property;
• prevent the student from achieving his/her own educational objectives because of blocked vision or restricted movement;
• grooming, hair style and/or wearing of clothing, jewelry, head coverings, tattoos, or accessories which by virtue of color, arrangement, trademark or other attribute denotes membership in a group other than student organizations approved in advance by the Board. (This specifically includes youth gang activity, but not limited to.)

Each principal, in consultation with his/her staff, shall also have the ability to develop and enforce a dress code policy for their building consistent with Board Policy 5511. Shirts/blouses must cover the mid-torso, and shorts must reach to mid-thigh. Shoes are required at all times. Students may not wear “pajama pants” or slippers to school unless approved in advance by the building administrator for special designated spirit days. 

While fashion changes, the reason for being in school does not. Students are in school to learn. Students are encouraged to “dress for success” and wear clothing that would be appropriate in a business like setting. In keeping with this philosophy, all Federal and State laws, local ordinances, and appropriate health department standards shall apply to all students. Immodest, inappropriate, and disruptive clothing is not permitted.

Any fashion (dress, accessory, or hairstyle) that disrupts the educational process or presents a safety risk will not be permitted. If a student has selected a manner of appearance that is beyond mere freedom of expression and disrupts the educational process or presents risk to themselves or others, they may be removed from the educational setting.

The following guidelines shall be used to determine appropriate student attire:

• While shorts worn in good taste are allowed, shorts and skirts must extend below your fingertips.
• Halter-tops, tank tops, muscle shirts, tube tops, bathing suits, running shorts, pajama bottoms, see through clothing, and clothing that shows the bare midriff or cleavage are not allowed.
• Pants must be worn at or above the waist.
• K-7 Buildings: Hats must be removed upon entering the building and may not be worn at any time. If worn, they may be confiscated by any school staff member without warning and returned only after serving a detention
• 8-12 Buildings: Hats may be worn, provided that they do not contain any inappropriate or vulgar language or logos, and do not cause a disruption inside the classroom.
• If coats and jackets pose a safety issue (as in a lab class) or interfere with the educational process, students may be required to remove them.

In keeping with the preceding expectations, students are prohibited from wearing or displaying the following: clothing which has language or designs which are explicitly violent, obscene, sexually suggestive or offensive to individuals or groups or that advertise alcohol or illegal materials. Clothing, pins, insignias, colors, or emblems that identify them as a member of any gang affiliation or representation..

The Superintendent may establish the dress requirements for members of the athletic teams, bands, and other school groups when representing the District at a public event.

Students who violate the foregoing guidelines will not be admitted to class and may be suspended from school.

Drug Prevention

The Board of Education recognizes that the misuse of drugs is a serious problem with legal, physical, and social implications for the entire school community.

As the educational institution of this community, the schools should strive to prevent drug abuse and help drug abusers by educational, rather than punitive, means.

For purposes of this policy, "drugs" shall mean:

A.  all dangerous controlled substances as so designated and prohibited by Michigan statute;

B.  all chemicals which release toxic vapors;

C.  all alcoholic beverages;

D.  any prescription or patent drug, except those for which permission to use in school has been granted pursuant to Board policy;

E.  "look-alikes";

F.  performance enhancing drugs as determined annually by the Department of Community Health;

G.  any other illegal substances so designated and prohibited by law.

The Board prohibits the use, possession, concealment, or distribution of any drug at any time on District property or at any District-related event.

In accordance with Federal and State law, the Board hereby establishes a "Drug-Free School Zone" that extends 1000 feet from the boundary of any school property. The Board prohibits the use, possession, sale, concealment, delivery, or distribution of any drug or any drug-related paraphernalia at any time on District property, within the Drug-Free School Zone, or at any District-related event.

Furthermore, the Superintendent shall take the necessary steps so that an individual eighteen (18) years of age or older who knowingly sells, delivers or distributes controlled substances so designated and prohibited by Michigan statute within the Drug-Free School Zone to another person is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

In an effort to maintain a Drug Free zone surrounding Holland High School/Holland Early College, random searches (including the use of a police drug sniffing dog) will take place. These searches will include school lockers, classrooms and parking lots (including cars parked in school lots). When a dog indicates the possible location of drugs, the school will further investigate. This requires that the student be interviewed and parents will be contacted. We ask that no assumptions be made relative to the dog “indicating” the possible location of drugs. The indication simply means that further investigation is necessary.

• A student who is on campus with a strong odor of alcohol or drugs will be sent to the Administration or designee. The parent and/or police will be notified by the Administration. A alcohol test may be utilized.
• A student who is on campus in possession of and/or under the influence of illegal drugs and/or alcohol may be suspended out of school for a period of up to ten (10) school days. Such suspension may be reduced to five (5) days provided a drug/alcohol addiction evaluation is conducted and verified to the Administrator. If addiction is indicated by the evaluator, proof of counseling will be required prior to remittance.
• A student found in possession of, or using illegal drugs and/or alcohol on the campus may be turned over to the police.
• The sale of illegal drugs, counterfeit (look alike) substances, designer drugs, over the counter drugs, or alcohol on the campus, at school sponsored extra-curricular activities, and while the school has jurisdiction over students, will result in the student being turned over to the police, and suspended for a minimum of ten (10) school days, which may include a recommendation for expulsion.

The unauthorized or illegal use of prescriptive or over the counter drugs while a student is under the jurisdiction of the school is prohibited. Such use, including providing prescriptive or over the counter drugs to other students, may result in suspension from school of both the provider and user as well as possible expulsion/police involvement.

Fighting

Students engaged in fighting during school, during school activities, and en route to and from school may be suspended out of school up to ten (10) school days and/or recommended for expulsion. Students directly involved may be subject to police intervention and legal prosecution for assault and/or disorderly conduct. Liability for injury resulting from a physical confrontation on or off school property rests with the student and/or parent/legal guardian.

Gang Related Material, Involvement and/or Activity

Students, parents, and staff value learning and success for all students. It is because of this commitment that students shall not be permitted to engage in behaviors at school, while on school property, or at school related activities that promote gang, or gang-like, behaviors.

In keeping with this philosophy, Holland Public Schools (HPS) has entered into an agreement with the Holland Police Department (HPD) which facilitates the sharing of gang related information. Under this agreement, HPD and HPS will share any and all gang related information. This includes, but is not limited to, the sharing of: names of gang affiliated individuals; intelligence which identifies gang affiliation, colors, and activities; any other information which facilitates a gang free environment at HHS, and the larger Holland community.*

Gang activity is defined as, “organized individual or group behaviors associated with belonging to a band of youths that promotes juvenile delinquency, and which has an adverse effect on the school and learning environment.

This “no tolerance” regulation includes behaviors such as:

• Making gestures such as hand signals leading to violent behaviors (i.e. fighting, shouting confrontations, individual or group conflicts, standoffs, etc.)
• Possession of weapons (as described in State law regarding prohibitions of “weapons” in schools.)
• Displaying gang symbols on one’s body, clothes, possessions, vehicle, locker, or other school property.
• Any other activities deemed to be gang related (discretion of administration).

Because gang activity by its nature is often subtle or covert, the administration reserves the right to determine which behaviors, dress, or activities are gang related.

Gang Related Disciplinary Procedures

When a student is observed participating in gang related behaviors, the following will occur:

First Offense:

The incident will be discussed with the student, a record will be maintained by the administration, information will be shared with the police, and a parent-administrator conference will be held. *Under the agreement with HPD, students may receive the “First Offense” consequences for gang related behavior for their actions in the community. In this event, the first incident of gang related behavior in the school will result in “Second Offense” consequences.

Second Offense:

The student will be suspended out of school for ten (10) school days, information will be shared with the police, and normal re-entry procedures will be implemented.

Third Offense:

The student will be suspended for a period of ten (10) school days, information will be shared with the police, and a recommendation for expulsion may be made to the Superintendent.

Gang related disciplinary records accumulate over the course of the student’s enrollment and do not begin anew at the beginning of each school year.

Student Right of Expression

In accordance with Board of Education Policy 5722 and Policy 9700, students have the right, protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, to exercise freedom of speech. This includes the right to distribute or display, at reasonable times and places, written material, petitions, buttons, badges, or other insignia, except expression which:

A.  is obscene to minors or adults;

B.  is libelous;

C.  is pervasively indecent or vulgar;

D.  advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law;

E.  constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses other people (e.g., threats of violence, defamation of character or of a person's race, religion, or ethnic origin);

F.  presents a clear and present likelihood that, either because of its content or the manner of distribution or display, it will cause a material and substantial disruption of school or school activities, a violation of school regulations, or the commission of an unlawful act.

Distribution or display of material in any of the above categories is prohibited on school premises or at any school-related event.

Theft

Students shall not engage in theft or be in possession of stolen property. Students violating this policy face suspension and possible police referral. Students are encouraged not to bring anything of value to school that is not needed for learning. The school is not responsible for personal property.

Tobacco

Smoking and other tobacco uses are a danger to a student's health and to the health of others. The school prohibits the sale, distribution, use, or possession of any form of tobacco or electronic cigarettes or similar devices during school time or at any school activity. This prohibition also applies when going to and from school and at school bus stops. "Use of tobacco" shall mean all uses of tobacco, including cigars, cigarettes, or pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, snuff, or any other matter or substance that contains tobacco, in addition to papers used to roll cigarettes. The display of unlighted cigars, cigarettes, pipes, other "smoking" paraphernalia or tobacco products on one's person is also prohibited by this policy.

Violations of this rule could result in ISS for up to two (2) days, possible police referral, suspension, or expulsion. Successful completion of a smoking cessation assessment may reduce the ISS placement or consequences.

Trespassing/Loitering 

Trespassing is being present at a location other than where a student is authorized to be or when a student refuses to leave school property when ordered to do so.

Loitering is when students are in the building or on school property without a valid pass and/or not in their regularly scheduled classes.

All students are expected to exit the building and leave campus at the conclusion of the school day unless they have made previous arrangements with a staff member or are participating in a co-curricular or extra-curricular function following the regular school day. Trespassing may also include those who loiter around school property after school function hours. Holland High students may not be on the campus of any Holland Public Schools building during regular school hours, unless permission has previously been granted. Normal consequences, including police intervention, may take place.

Vandalism

Vandalism is considered to be defacing or destruction of school property or property of another. Students violating this policy face suspension and possible police referral.

Any direct or indirect involvement in vandalism of school property may result in out-of-school suspension and/or possible expulsion. The student(s) must make full restitution including labor and up-to-date replacement costs for damages.
Extensive vandalism and/or destruction of school property may result in a recommendation for appropriate action to the Board of Education.
Students involved in horseplay or inappropriate behavior and who unintentionally destroy school property must make full restitution for damages including labor and up-to-date replacement costs.

Verbal/Physical Assault

Michigan School Safety Legislation provides for penalties regarding assaults. Any student in grade 6 and above who commits a physical and/or "verbal assault" against a District employee, volunteer, or contractor on school property, on a school bus or other related vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or event will receive the following disciplinary actions: shall be subject to permanent expulsion for 180 school days for a physical assault; or when a student makes a bomb threat or similar threat against school property or a school sponsored activity, the board/designee shall suspend or expel the pupil from the district for a period of time as determined in the discretion of the school board.

For purposes of this rule, "verbal assault" also occurs when (1) a student intentionally makes a verbal threat of serious bodily injury directed to or at a District employee, volunteer, or contractor; and (2) the District employee, volunteer, or contractor, reasonably believes that s/he is in immediate danger of serious bodily injury from the student; and (3) the District employee, volunteer, or contractor reasonably believes that the student has the apparent ability, actual intention, and means to immediately, or in the immediate future, inflict serious bodily injury on the District employee, volunteer, or contractor, if the student is not prevented from doing so. Students may be subject to police intervention and legal prosecution as well. Students may face long term suspension and/or expulsion for verbal assaults.

If a pupil enrolled in a grade 6 or above commits a physical assault at school against another pupil, then the school board or designee shall suspend or expel the pupil from the school district great than 60 days up to 180 school days.

For purposes of this rule, “physical assault” is defined as an act where a student intentionally causes or attempts to cause physical harm to another through force or violence.

The Superintendent may modify the expulsion period on a case-by-case basis. For purposes of this rule, a "verbal assault" are subject to suspension and possible expulsion.

Weapons

The Board of Education prohibits students from possessing, storing, making, or using a weapon in any setting that is under the control and supervision of the District for the purpose of school activities approved and authorized by the District including, but not limited to, property leased, owned, or contracted for by the District, a school-sponsored event, including athletic events, or in a District vehicle without the permission of the Superintendent.

The term "weapon" means any object which, in the manner in which it is used, is intended to be used, or is represented, is capable of inflicting serious bodily harm or property damage, as well as endangering the health and safety of persons. Weapons include, but are not limited to, firearms, guns of any type whatsoever, including spring, air and gas-powered guns (whether loaded or unloaded) that will expel a BB, pellet, or paint balls, knives, razors, clubs, electric weapons, metallic knuckles, martial arts weapons, ammunition, and explosives or any other weapon described in 18 U.S.C. 921.

This policy shall also encompass such actions as look-alike items, false fire alarms, bomb threats, or intentional calls to falsely report a dangerous condition.

The Superintendent will refer any student who violates this policy to the student’s parents or guardians and to the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system. The student may also be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion.

Asthma Inhalers and Epi-pens

Students, with appropriate written permission from the physician and parents, may posses and use a metered dose inhaler or dry powder inhaler to alleviate asthmatic symptoms. Epinephrine (Epi-pen) is administered only in accordance with a written medication administration plan developed by the school nurse and updated annually.

Concussion

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury. Concussions occur when there is a forceful blow to the head or body that results in rapid movement of the head and causes any change in behavior, thinking, or physical functioning. Concussions are not limited to situations involving loss of consciousness. Some symptoms of a concussion include headache, nausea, confusion, memory difficulties, dizziness, blurred vision, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and difficulty sleeping.

Parents/guardians who inform coaches and teachers that their child is being treated by a healthcare professional for a concussion must provide written clearance from that healthcare professional for full or limited participation in class, practice, activity, or competition. Prior to receiving written clearance from a healthcare professional, students who have sustained a concussion may not participate in any school-related physical activities.

If a concussion is suspected by a teacher or coach, the student will be removed from the class, practice, activity, or game. The student will not be permitted to return to full participation until he or she is evaluated by a healthcare professional experienced in concussion management and receives written clearance for full participation from that professional. Limited physical activity in the physical education context may eventually be permitted, depending on the recommendation of the healthcare professional. Written clearance for full participation will be required from a healthcare professional when a concussion is suspected or diagnosed.

Control of casual-contact communicable diseases

The Board of Education recognizes that control of the spread of communicable disease spread through casual-contact is essential to the well-being of the school community and to the efficient District operation. The BOE has adopted a Return to Learn Plan which defines the procedures for addressing and reducing the impact of COVID-19 in each of its programs.

For purposes of this policy, "casual-contact communicable disease" shall include diphtheria, scarlet fever and other strep infections, whooping cough, mumps, measles, rubella, and/or others designated by the Michigan Department of Public Health including COVID-19.

In order to protect the health and safety of the students, District personnel, and the community at large, the Board shall follow all State statutes and Health Department regulations which pertain to immunization and other means for controlling casual-contact communicable disease spread through normal interaction in the school setting.

If a student exhibits symptoms of a communicable disease, the principal will isolate/quarantine the student in the building and contact the parents/guardians. Protocols established by the County Health Department shall be followed. In some cases, students may have to follow quarantine procedures at home for a period of time as defined by the County Health Department. 

Emergency Medical Authorization

The Board has established a policy that every student must have an Emergency Medical Authorization Form completed and signed by his/her parent in order to participate in any activity off school grounds. This includes field trips, spectator trips, athletic and other extra-curricular activities, and co-curricular activities.

The Emergency Medical Authorization Form is provided at the time of enrollment and at the beginning of each year. Failure to return the completed form to the school will jeopardize a student’s educational programs.

Homebound Instruction Program

The Board of Education shall provide, pursuant to rules of the State Board of Education, individual instruction to students of legal school age who are not able to attend classes because of a physical or emotional disability.

Applications for individual instruction shall be made by a physician licensed to practice in this State and shall:

A.  certify the nature of the medical disability;

B.  state the probable duration of the confinement;

C.  request such instruction;

D.  present evidence of the student's ability to participate in an educational program.

Applications must be approved by the Director of Student Services.

The District reserves the right to withhold homebound instruction when:

A.  the instructor's presence in the place of a student's confinement presents a hazard to the health of teacher;

B.  a parent or other adult in authority is not at home with the student during the hours of instruction;

C.  the condition of the student is such as to preclude his/her benefit from such instruction.

Immunizations

The Board of Education requires that all students be properly immunized pursuant to the provisions of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) regulations.

Students must meet the immunization requirements set by State for attendance at school in order to enroll or attend. The specific immunization requirements are found in Board Policy/Administrative Guideline 5320-Immunization of Students in School.

Students who do not meet the immunization requirements on the opening day of school shall be suspended from school by the Superintendent in accordance with District administrative procedures. Transfer students shall not be admitted without proof of immunization required by the State.

Exemptions to the immunization requirements shall be granted only for medical, religious, or other reasons specified in the County Health Status Code.

There are three (3) circumstances in which a required vaccine may be waived or delayed:

A.  A valid medical contraindication exists to receiving the vaccine. The child’s physician must certify the contraindication on Form 5320 F2 of Board policy/forms.

B.  The parents hold religious or philosophical beliefs against receiving a vaccination. Any parent/guardian/in loco parentis who wants to claim a nonmedical waiver will need to receive education regarding the benefits of vaccination and the risks of disease from a county health department before obtaining the certified nonmedical waiver form through the Local Health Department.

C.  The child has received at least one (1) dose of each immunizing agent and the next dose(s) are not due yet.

Medication

The Board of Education shall not be responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of student illness. The administration of prescribed medication and/or medically-prescribed treatments to a student during school hours will be permitted only when failure to do so would jeopardize the health of the student, or the student would not be able to attend school if the medication or treatment were not made available during school hours, or the child is disabled and requires medication to benefit from his/her educational program. Parents should determine with their physician's counsel whether the medication schedule can be adjusted to avoid administering medication during school hours.

For purposes of this policy, "medication" shall include all medicines including those prescribed by a physician and any non-prescribed (over-the-counter) drugs, preparations, and/or remedies. "Treatment" refers both to the manner in which a medication is administered and to health-care procedures which require special training, such as catheterization.

Before any medication or treatment may be administered to any student during school hours, the Board shall require the written prescription from the child's physician accompanied by the written authorization of the parent. This document shall be kept on file in the administrative offices. No student is allowed to provide or sell any type of over-the-counter medication to another student. Violations of this rule will be considered violations of Board Policy 5530 - Drug Prevention and of the Student Discipline Code/Code of Conduct.

Only medication in its original container; labeled with the date, if a prescription; the student's name; and exact dosage will be administered. Parents, or students authorized in writing by their physician and parents, may administer medication or treatment.

Animals on School Property/Service Animals

Animals permitted in schools and elsewhere on District property shall be limited to those necessary to support specific curriculum-related projects and activities, those that provide assistance to a student or staff member due to a disability (e.g., seizure disorder), those that provide a reasonable accommodation to a student in accordance with a Section 504 Plan, or those that serve as service animals as required by Federal and State law.

Taking into consideration that some animals can cause or exacerbate allergic reactions, spread bacterial infections, or cause damage and create a hazard if they escape from confinement, the Principal may permit non-service animals to be present in classrooms to support curriculum-related projects and activities.

The Board of Education complies with the provisions of the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), as amended, regarding an individual with disability’s use of a service animal.

Individuals with disabilities shall be permitted to be accompanied by their service animals in all areas of the District’s facilities where members of the public, as participants in services, programs or activities, or as invitees, are allowed to go.

Attendance

Promoting and fostering desired student attendance habits requires a commitment from the administration, faculty, and parents. No single individual or group can - in and of itself - successfully accomplish this task.

The Board of Education requires all students enrolled in the schools of this District to attend school regularly in accordance with the laws of the State. The District's educational program is predicated upon the presence of the student and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation. The regular contact of students with one another in the classroom and their participation in a well-planned instructional activity under the tutelage of a competent teacher are vital to this purpose.

The District recognizes and extends flexibility for required attendance during the 2020-21 school year due to the impact of COVID-19 and the impact of illness and/or self-quarantine measures which must be taken following consultation with the County Health Department.

Absence/Unexcused Absence Defined

Absence is defined as non-presence in the assigned location any time beyond the tardiness limit. 
Unexcused Absence is defined as an Absence for which no written excuse has been approved.
Tardiness is defined as students not in class at the expected times of the day. All students who are tardy to school must report to the principal’s office to sign in.

Excusable Reasons for Absence

The District accepts only the following as excusable reasons for absence from school. Each absence shall be explained in writing and signed by the student's parents. The excuse shall be submitted to the principal and filed as part of the student's school record.

A written excuse for absence from school may be approved for one (1) or more of the following reasons or conditions:

COVID-19

Absences that are required from school due to self-quarantine or sickness as a result of COVID-19.

Absence Due to Sickness

In the early morning hours before school starts it is often difficult to determine whether or not to send your child to school. Most illnesses that children have are contagious, meaning other children can catch them. For the health safety of your son/daughter and other students, we have a policy that if your child has the following symptoms they need to stay home from school.

Fever

We consider a fever to be a temperature of 100 degrees or greater.
Your child’s temperature should be normal
Please wait 24 hours after being fever free before sending him/her back to school.

Bad Cough

We define a bad cough as one which is persistent and interferes with their ability to do schoolwork.
Students with bad coughs often do not remember to cover their mouths and this allows germs to quickly spread.

Diarrhea, vomiting or severe stomachaches

These symptoms should be gone for 24 hours before sending your child back to school.

Excused & Unexcused Absences

An absence will be excused when a parent calls or sends a note excusing the child. An unexcused absence will result when a parent or guardian does not phone (or present a note) excusing the student from school.
It is the responsibility of the student following an excused absence to meet with each teacher regarding his/her make up work.

A.  Personal Illness

The principal may require a doctor's confirmation if s/he deems it advisable.

B.  Illness in the Family

C.  Quarantine of the Home

This is limited to the length of the quarantine as fixed by the proper health officials.

D.  Death of a Relative

E.  Observance of Religious Holidays

Any student shall be excused for the purpose of observing a religious holiday consistent with his/her creed or belief.

F.  Absence During the School Day for Professional Appointments

Parents are to be encouraged to schedule medical, dental, legal, and other necessary appointments other than during the school day. Since this is not always possible, when a student is to be absent for part of the day:

1. the student shall have a statement to that effect from his/her parents;
2. the student shall bring a signed statement from the doctor, dentist, lawyer, counselor, etc. to the effect that s/he reported promptly for the appointment;
3. the student shall report back to school immediately after his/her appointment if school is still in session.

Chronic Absenteeism, 10%-Whether excused or unexcused:

At any time during the school year if a student has absences that have reached 10% of their school days as being absent, this should initiate the following steps by the district addressing concerns. It is recommended that these check marks be made at 30 days of school, 60, 90, 120, 150.

OR

At any time during the school year a student has tardies, (late arrivals or early dismissals) that have reached 20% of their school days, or any combination of the above, the following steps should be initiated:

At 5 days absent (or at 10% of their school days being absent) a district identifies a potential attendance problem

At 7 absences (or continued absences after identified attendance issue) district sends out an attendance letter addressing concerns of absences.

At 10 absences (or continued absences after identified attendance issue) district attempts to contact parent/guardian to discuss attendance issues and offer any support as needed. District also attempts to confirm that parent/guardian received attendance letter. Tier 1 and Tier 2 supports being reviewed by school.

At 12 absences (or continued absences after identified attendance issue) district attempts to contact parent/guardian and schedules school meeting to complete Truancy Meeting Forms and offer any resources that might be helpful. Tier 1 and Tier 2 supports being reviewed by school.

At 15 absences (or continued absences after identified attendance issue) and the district has exhausted all resources and interventions and attendance has not improved, a referral to the ISD is made via the Truancy Data Manager (TDM).

After a referral has been made, all absences must have a doctor’s note in order to be marked excused and coded EM. Doctor’s note must be uploaded into the TDM.

*Schools can refer a student to truancy prior to 15 absences (especially elementary) as long as the student has missed 10% of the school year and the school has exhausted all efforts and tiered interventions to improve attendance.

Truancy

A student shall be considered truant each day or part of the day s/he is unexcusably absent from his/her assigned location. A high school student will be considered tardy rather than absent if s/he is in his/her assigned location within ten (10) minutes after the official start of the school day or activity.

Truancy demonstrates a deliberate disregard for the educational program and is considered as a serious matter. Administrative action taken will be as follows:

A record of the truancy will be entered in the student’s record file.
Parent conferences for intervention may be held.
Truancy may be filed in accordance with Board policy and state law.

Bicycles, Skateboards, and Rollerblades

 

Bicycles, skateboards, and rollerblades should not be ridden on school property.
Skateboards and rollerblades must be carried into the building and stored in student lockers or is an agreed upon space in the classroom.
Bicycles must be parked in the racks that are provided and should be locked at all times.
The school does not accept responsibility for loss or damage.

Custodial Parents

If one parent has been awarded custody of a child and the non-custodial parent has custodial limitations, a copy of the custodial order (court) must be provided to the school office and principal. We will always follow and enforce the judge’s orders and we are grateful for your understanding.

Student safety is essential. A student will not be released to the care of another adult unless specific written permission signed by the parent (with a phone contact #) is provided to the school.  All requests by non-custodial parents for student report cards, etc, also need to be in writing.

Early Dismissal

No student will be allowed to leave school prior to dismissal time without a written request signed by a person who is on file in the School office or the parent coming to the school office to request the release. No student will be released to a person other than a custodial parent(s) without written permission signed by the custodial parent (s) or guardian.

Emergency Procedures

The Board of Education is committed to providing a safe learning and work environment. Unfortunately, natural and man-made disasters do occur. Such emergencies are best met by preparedness and planning. Emergency preparedness procedures are in place at each school to ensure the health and safety of students and staff. This includes cardiac arrest, fire drills, severe weather/tornado safety drills, and code-red or lockdown drills. It is important for parents to understand that during these drills or a real-world scenario that requires the implementation of one of these drills, parents stay away from the school campus. Directions will be provided by the Superintendent or designee via the district web-site, text alerts and local media for updates and reunification. To learn more about how the district responds to emergencies, please visit the website. 

Delivery of Gifts

Our schools will not accept items such as flowers, balloons, gifts, etc. for delivery to students at school. Please make arrangements for any special deliveries to go to your residence and not the school.

Injury and Illness

All injuries that occur at school must be reported to a teacher, the school office, the playground or lunchroom supervisor, or the school nurse.

If the injury is minor, the student will be treated and may return to class. If medical attention is required, the school nurse and administrators will make sure the district’s emergency procedures are followed.

A student who becomes ill during the school day should request permission to go to the school office and see the nurse. The school nurse will determine whether or not the student should remain in school or go home. If the nurse is not available, the school office staff will decide.

No student will be released from school without permission from the parent(s) or guardian. Accident reports will be completed as needed and will be kept on file by the school nurse.

Lost and Found

The lost and found area is in the Main Office. Students who have lost items should check there and may retrieve their items if they give a proper description. Unclaimed items will be given to charity at the close of the school year.

Lunch Program/Food Service

The Board believes the development of healthy behaviors and habits with regard to eating cannot be accomplished by the District alone. It will be necessary for the school staff, in addition to parents and the public at large, to be involved in a community-wide effort to promote, support, and model such healthy behaviors and habits. Parents interested in being involved should contact the food service director at 494-2000.

The school participates in the National School Lunch Program and makes lunches available to students for a fee of $2.65 for full pay, $.40 for reduced-price, or free lunch. Ala carte items are available. Students may also bring their own lunch to school to be eaten in the school's cafeteria. Eighth and ninth grade students shall not be allowed to leave school premises during the lunch period without specific written permission granted by the principal.

Applications for the school's Free and Reduced-Priced Meal program are distributed to all students. Copies of applications can also be obtained in the main office.  If a student does not receive one and believes that s/he is eligible contact the food Service Office at 494-2246.

The Board of Education provides cafeteria facilities in all school facilities where space and facilities permit, and will provide food service for the purchase and consumption of lunch for all students. The food-service program complies with Federal and State regulations pertaining to the selection, preparation, delivery, consumption, and disposal of food and beverages, including but not limited to the current USDA’s school meal pattern requirements for Americans and the USDA Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards, as well as to the fiscal management of the program. In addition, as required by law, a food safety program based on the principles of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) system shall be implemented with the intent of preventing food-borne illnesses. For added safety and security, access to the facility and the food stored and prepared therein shall be limited to food service staff and other authorized persons.

Substitutions to the standard meal requirements shall be made, at no additional charge, for students who are certified by a licensed physician to have a disability which restricts his/her diet, in accordance with the criteria set forth in 7 C.F.R. 15(b)(3). 

The District shall serve only nutritious food as determined by the Food Service Department in compliance with the current USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the USDA Smart Snacks in School nutrition guidelines. Foods and beverages unassociated with the food-service program must comply with the current USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the USDA Smart Snacks in School nutrition guidelines, and may be vended in accordance with Board Policy 8540.

All food items and beverages sold to students that will be consumed on the school campus (any area of property under the jurisdiction of the school that is accessible to students during the school day) during the school day (the period from the midnight before, to thirty (30) minutes after the end of the official school day) shall comply with the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the USDA Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards.

Student Fund-Raising

The Board of Education acknowledges that the solicitation of funds from students must be limited since compulsory attendance laws make the student a captive donor and may also disrupt the program of the schools.

For purposes of this policy "student fund-raising" shall include the solicitation and collection of money from students for any purpose and shall include the collection of money in exchange for tickets, papers, or any other goods or services for approved student activities. "Student fund-raising" also includes giving away goods or services, but suggesting a monetary donation.

The Board will permit student fund-raising by students in school, on school property, or at any school-sponsored event only when the profit therefrom is to be used for school purposes or for an activity connected with the schools.

Fund raising by approved school organizations, whose funds are managed by the District, may be permitted in school by the principal. Such fund-raising that occurs off school grounds may be permitted by the Superintendent.

For any fund-raisers, including those operated by student clubs and organizations, parent groups, or boosters clubs, that involve the sale of food items and/or beverages to students that will be consumed on the school campus (any area of property under the jurisdiction of the school that is accessible to students during the school day) during the school day (the period from the midnight before, to thirty (30) minutes after the end of the official school day), the food items and/or beverages to be sold shall comply with the current USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the USDA Smart Snacks in Schools nutrition standards, and also be consistent with requirements set forth in Policy 8500 - Food Services. Further, there shall be no exemptions from the standards for competitive foods in any of the District's schools.

Use of the name, logo, or any assets of the District, including, but not limited to facilities, technology, or communication networks, is prohibited without the specific permission of the Superintendent.

Crowdfunding activities aimed at raising funds for a specific classroom or school activity, including extracurricular activity, or to obtain supplemental resources (e.g., supplies or equipment) that are not required to provide a free appropriate public education to any students in the classroom may be permitted, but only with the specific approval of the Superintendent.

Fund-raising by students on behalf of those school-related organizations and District support organizations, whose funds are not managed by the District may be permitted on or off school grounds by the Superintendent.

All fund-raising by school-related organizations and District support organizations, both those whose funds are managed by the Fiscal Officer and those whose funds are not managed by the Fiscal Officer, shall be done in accordance with Policy 9211 and Policy 9700.

Student Valuables

Students are encouraged not to bring items of value to school. Items such as jewelry, expensive clothing, electronic equipment, and the like, are tempting targets for theft and extortion. The School cannot be responsible for their safe-keeping and will not be liable for loss or damage to personal valuables.

Use of School Equipment and Facilities

Students must receive the permission of the teacher before using any equipment or materials in the classroom and the permission of the Principal to use any other school equipment or facility. Students will be held responsible for the proper use and protection of any equipment or facility they are permitted to use.

Any form of discrimination or harassment can be devastating to an individual's academic progress, social relationship and/or personal sense of self-worth.

As such, the Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation or transgender identity), disability, age (except as authorized by law), religion, military status, ancestry, or genetic information (collectively, "Protected Classes") in its educational programs or activities.

The Board also does not discriminate on the basis of Protected Classes in its employment policies and practices as they relate to students, and does not tolerate harassment of any kind.

Equal educational opportunities shall be available to all students, without regard to the Protected Classes, age (unless age is a factor necessary to the normal operation or the achievement of any legitimate objective of the program/activity), place of residence within the boundaries of the District, or social or economic background, to learn through the curriculum offered in this District. Educational programs shall be designed to meet the varying needs of all students.

Inquiries regarding our district's non-discrimination policies may be directed to either of the District Compliance Officers:
 

Director of Human Resources & Employee Performance, Holland Public Schools, 320 W. 24th St., Holland, MI 49423 (616) 494-2000.

Anna Clawson, Assistant Director of Student Services, Holland Public Schools, 320 W. 24th St., Holland, MI 49423 (616) 494-2000.

The Board of Education recognizes and values parents and families as children's first teachers and decision-makers in education. The Board believes that student learning is more likely to occur when there is an effective partnership between the school and the student's parents and family. Such a partnership between the home and school and greater involvement of parents in the education of their children generally result in higher academic achievement, improved student behavior, and reduced absenteeism.

The term "families" is used in order to include children's primary caregivers, who are not their biological parents, such as foster caregivers, grandparents, and other family members.

As part of the school improvement process, parents are encouraged to be part of this ongoing relationship and interaction. The guidelines that follow are components of this improvement process:

A.  Relationships with Families

1. cultivating school environments that are welcoming, supportive, and student-centered
2. providing professional development for school staff that helps build partnerships between families and schools; 1,2
3. providing family activities that relate to various cultures, languages, practices, and customs, and bridge economic and cultural barriers; 1,2
4. providing coordination, technical support and other support to assist schools in planning and implementing family involvement activities. 2

B.  Effective Communication

1. providing information to families to support the proper health, safety, and well-being of their children;
2. providing information to families about school policies, procedures, programs, and activities; 1,2
3. promoting regular and open communication between school personnel and students' family members;
4. communicating with families in a format and language that is understandable, to the extent practicable; 1,2
5. providing information and involving families in monitoring student progress; 2
6. providing families with timely and meaningful information regarding Michigan's academic standards, State and local assessments, and pertinent legal provisions; 1,2
7. preparing families to be involved in meaningful discussions and meetings with school staff. 1,2

C.  Volunteer Opportunities

1. providing volunteer opportunities for families to support their children's school activities; 2
2. supporting other needs, such as transportation and child care, to enable families to participate in school-sponsored family involvement events. 2

D.  Learning at Home

1. offering training and resources to help families learn strategies and skills to support at-home learning and success in school; 1,2
2. working with families to establish learning goals and help their children accomplish these goals;
3. helping families to provide a school and home environment that encourages learning and extends learning at home. 1

E.  Involving Families in Decision Making and Advocacy

1. involving families as partners in the process of school review and continuous improvement planning; 2
2. involving families in the development of its District-wide parent involvement policy and plan, and distributing the policy and plan to families. 1,2

F.  Collaborating with the Community

1. building constructive partnerships and connecting families with community-based programs and other community resources; 1,2
2. coordinating and integrating family involvement programs and activities with District initiatives and community-based programs that encourage and support families' participation in their children's education, growth, and development. 1,2

1 - Indicates IDEA 2004 Section 650 & 644 parent involvement requirements
2 - Indicates Title I Section 1118 parent involvement requirements

Holland Public Schools is happy to offer an online portal to your student’s schedule, behavior, attendance and grades. You can call the school office to receive your user name and password so you can follow your student’s progress as well as receive email alerts for both attendance and disciplinary charges. We encourage parents to use this portal on a regular basis to stay engaged with your child’s learning. Individual staff emails can be obtained from the staff directory on the front page of the district’s website at www.hollandpublicschools.org.

Classes and before/after school events will be held whenever possible. If, however, weather conditions make it unsafe to transport children to school, the office of the superintendent will make the decision to close schools. The process for weather related cancellations can be viewed on our website

Current information regarding school closings and opening delays due to inclement weather or other conditions can be obtained at the following:

WHTC 1450 am radio station

Signing up for text alerts

494-2095 English Audio line

494-2096 Spanish Audio line

The banner provided at www.hollandpublicschools.org

Twitter @bdavishps

And other local radio and TV stations.

Parents and students are responsible for knowing about emergency closings and delays.

If it is necessary to delay the start of school or dismiss early, the same procedure will be followed.

 

In order to provide appropriate educational services and programming, the Board of Education must collect, retain, and use information about individual students. Simultaneously, the Board recognizes the need to safeguard student's privacy and restrict access to student’s personally identifiable information. Every student at HPS has a cumulative folder (CA60). The record was started beginning at the time of enrollment in the district or upon receipt from another attended school district. Included in the cumulative folder are the student’s identification information, health records, academic transcript, standardized test scores, behavioral history, and other documentation relating to the student’s school experience.

Student records shall be available only to students and their parents, eligible students, and designated school officials who have a legitimate educational interest in the information, or to other individuals or organizations as permitted by law under the Family Education Rights and Privileges Act, 1974. The term "parents" includes legal guardians or other persons standing in loco parentis (such as a grandparent or stepparent with whom the child lives, or a person who is legally responsible for the welfare of the child). The term "eligible student" refers to a student who is eighteen (18) years of age or older or a student of any age who is enrolled in a postsecondary institution.

Only "directory information" regarding a student shall be released to any person or party, other than the student or his/her parent, without the written consent of the parent; or, if the student is an eligible student, the written consent of the student, except those persons or parties stipulated by the Board policy and administrative guidelines and/or those specified in the law. This includes a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, height and weight if a member of an athletic team, dates of attendance, date of graduation, awards received and any other information which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy, if disclosed. A parent may request that directory information about the student be released only with written permission.

For more information regarding student records, please see Board Policy 8330-Student Records.

The Board of Education recognizes that students possess not only the right to an education but the rights of citizenship as well.

In providing students the opportunity for an education to which they are entitled, the District shall attempt to offer nurture, counsel, and custodial care appropriate to their age and maturity. The District shall, at the same time, guarantee that no student is deprived of the basic right to equal treatment and equal access to the educational program, due process, a presumption of innocence, free expression and association, and the privacy of his/her own thoughts.

Attendant to the rights guaranteed to each student, however, are certain responsibilities, which include respect for the rights of others, obedience to properly constituted school authority, and compliance with the guidelines and rules of the District.

The Board realizes that as students differ in age and maturity, so they differ in ability to handle both the rights of citizens and the concomitant responsibilities. The exercise of each right shall be granted, therefore, with due regard for the degree of responsibility possessed by the student and the student's need for the continuing guidance and control of those responsible for his/her education.

Since a student who has reached the age of majority possesses the full rights of an adult, s/he may authorize those school matters previously handled by his/her parents, but s/he also assumes the responsibility for his/her performance in school, attendance, and compliance with school rules.

Administrators, counselors, and teachers shall not provide a supporting affidavit for students who have petitioned the court to grant them the status of emancipated minors unless prior approval has been obtained from the Superintendent.

It is the policy of the Board of Education to provide transportation for those students, of any age, whose distance from their school makes this service necessary within the limitations established by State law and the regulations of the State Board of Education. The walk distance for students in grades K-7 is 1.25 miles while the distance for 8-12 is 1.5 miles. Kindergarten riders must have an approved adult present at the time of disembarkation at designated bus drop off locations.

Bus Conduct

Students will be required to wear face coverings when riding district-provided transportation for the 2020-2021 school year during Phase 4 or 5 of COVID-19. Students may wear their own appropriate facial covering and/or a district provided disposable mask. Upon entering the bus, students will also be required to clean/sanitize their hands. Facial coverings must be worn the duration of the bus ride. Failure to do so will result in the student losing his/her bus riding privileges for the semester.

1. Parents are to be informed that school bus transportation is a privilege and not a right and that the bus driver is the sole authority on the bus while students are being transported.

2. Parents are also to be informed that they are responsible for:

• a. the safety of their child while going to or from the bus stop and while waiting for the school bus;
• b. their child being at the bus stop at least ten (10) minutes prior to scheduled pick-up time;
• c. damage by their child to school buses, personal property, or public property.

3. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a proper manner at bus stops. The District will not enter into disputes involving parents and/or students concerning matters that take place prior to the student boarding the school bus, or after the student has disembarked from the bus on his/her way home.

4. A permanent transfer to another route or bus stop for morning pick-up and/or afternoon drop-off will only be made upon the approval of the Director of Transportation.

5. Students shall cross all streets at least ten (10) feet in front of the school bus and after the driver has signaled the student that it is all right to do so.

6. For the safe operation of the school bus, noise on buses shall be kept at a minimum with students speaking in reasonable conversation voices. Students must be quiet at railroad crossings and other danger zones as designated by the bus driver.

7. The following cargo is forbidden to be transported on a school bus: pets, alcoholic beverages, drugs, ammunition, explosives, firearms, knives, or any other dangerous materials or objects. If there is a question on the transportation of a particular item, the Director of Transportation and principal should be consulted.

Student Surveillance

In accord with Board policy, the Director of Transportation may install the appropriate equipment for video-taping the interior of the buses while transporting students.

The Board of Education authorizes the use of video surveillance and electronic monitoring equipment at various school sites throughout the District and on school buses. The video surveillance/electronic monitoring equipment shall be used to protect Board property and assets from theft and vandalism, through deterrence and video documentation. The system is not designed nor intended to protect individuals from being victims of violent or property crimes, nor to detect other potentially illegal and undesirable activities that may occur, although information may be used as evidence in such cases.

The monitoring of actions and behavior of individuals who come onto school property is a significant factor in maintaining order and discipline and protecting students, staff, visitors, and school and student property. Video surveillance/electronic monitoring systems serve to complement other means being employed in the District to promote and foster a safe and secure teaching and learning environment for students and staff. The Board recognizes that the use of a video surveillance/electronic monitoring system does not replace the need for the ongoing vigilance of the school staff assigned by the building principal to monitor and supervise the school building. Rather, the video surveillance/electronic monitoring system serves as an appropriate and useful tool with which to augment or support the in-person supervision provided by staff. The building principal is responsible for verifying that due diligence is observed in maintaining general campus security.

Any information obtained from video surveillance/electronic monitoring systems may only be used to support the orderly operation of the School District's schools and facilities, and for law enforcement purposes, and not for any other purposes. As such, recordings obtained through the use of video surveillance/electronic monitoring equipment may be used as evidence in any disciplinary proceedings, administrative proceeding or criminal proceeding, subject to Board policy and regulations. Further, such recordings may become a part of a student's education record or staff member's personnel file. Recordings of students will be treated as confidential, to the extent allowed by law. Copies of video recordings containing personally identifiable information about students shall not be released except as required or authorized by law.

 

In light of the impact of COVID-19, and the District's plan to provide as contaminate free of a learning space as possible and reduce the potential spread of the virus, visitors will not be admitted into the interior of a school building during the school day during Phases 1-5 as established by Executive Order of the Governor of Michigan.

All visitors must self-screen themselves prior to arrival to school, complete a screen survey check of symptoms upon arrival, sanitize their hands, and enter into the main office to conduct any school-related business. All visitors must wear a facial mask covering. 

Special arrangements will be made for parents needing to meet with identified staff for the purposes of Individualized Education Plans Meetings, disciplinary meetings, or other building-level approved meetings by the principal.

The Board of Education recognizes that certain programs and activities can be enhanced through the use of volunteers who have particular knowledge or skills that will be helpful to members of the professional staff responsible for the conduct of those programs and activities. These services are suspended during Phase 1-4 of COVID-19. We will resume these opportunities when we return to Phase 5 or 6.  Volunteers must annually complete a volunteer application form prior to volunteering for any school/district related programs consenting to a criminal background check. Volunteers, under reasons of safety or inconsistency with board policy may be refused serving in this capacity. Volunteers are expected to abide by all applicable Board Policies and District guidelines while on duty. The Superintendent or designee may terminate the services of any volunteer whose performance is not satisfactory.