The Devers Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex or disability in providing education or providing access to benefits of education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Cody Abshier has been designated to coordinate compliance with these legal requirements.






GRADES PK - 8

HANDBOOK

2009-2010

Cody Abshier
Principal/Superintendent


BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Mark Givens

Donna Hebert

Mike Hubley

Robert Kirkland

Tommy McIntosh

Tommy McMullan

Michael Sikora



TABLE OF CONTENTS




Principal’s Message 6

Mission Statement 7

Devers Tigers School Directory 8

School Calendar 10
Pest Control Board Statement 11

Parental Acknowledgement 12

Student Directory Info Form 13

Preface 14

Admission 14

Asbestos 14

Assemblies 14

Attendance 14

Awards and Honors 15

Buses or Other School Vehicles 15

Cafeteria Services 16

Change of Address 17

Cheerleading Rules 17

Class Ranking 20

Clubs 20

Communicable Diseases 20

Communication Between
Home & School 21

Complaints by Students /
Parents 21

Computer Resources 21
Conduct 22

Conferences 23
Credit by Examination 23

Distribution of Material 23

Dress and Grooming 24

Drills – Fire, Tornado, & Emergency 24

Emergency Closing 25

Emergency Medical Treatment 25

Extracurricular Activities 25

Fees 26

Fund Raising 27

Governmental Authority 27

Health Related Matters 27

Homework 29

Honor Roll 29

Illnesses 29

Immunization 30

Insurance 31

Leaving School 31

Lost and Found Articles 31

Makeup Work 31
Medicine at School 32

Motorized Vehicles 33

Organizations 33

Parental Involvement, Responsibility
And Rights 33

Parental Involvement Policy 34

Parental Rights 35

Parties 35

Pest Control 35

Physical Education Equipment 35

Pledge of Allegiance/
Moment of Silence 35

Posters 36

Prayer 36

Principal’s Office 36

Promotion, Retention, and
Placement in Grades PK – 8 36

Protection of Student Rights 37

Release of Student from School 37

Report Cards 37

Safety / Accident Prevention 38

School Facilities 38

Searches by Trained Dogs 38

Special Programs 38

Student Records 39

Special Education Records 40

Testing 40

Textbooks 40

Tobacco Products 41

Travel – School Sponsored 41

Vehicles on Campus 41

Visitors 41

Student Code of Conduct -- Table of Contents






PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE


Dear Students,

As another year begins, I am excited about working with you in a school so rich with success, tradition, and pride. It is the mission of our school to provide you with a quality, educational experience, while maintaining the traditions and pride which have made Devers students so successful in the past.

This handbook has been prepared to help us achieve our goal. It contains student expectations and responsibilities. It will explain school procedures and activities, which are designed to help you have a successful year.

I know each one of us will answer the challenge to maintain the traditions of academic success and "Tiger Pride" during the upcoming school year.

Sincerely,
Cody Abshier
Principal/Superintendent
DEVERS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

MISSION STATEMENT


It is the mission of the Devers Independent School District to provide an environment that will enable all students to learn. All Devers ISD personnel will nurture each student so they may be empowered with a positive self-image and desire to be a life-long learner. To achieve this goal, DISD will provide a flexible curriculum of English, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Fine Arts, Health, Physical Education, and Computer Literacy. The curriculum will be taught in an environment that will promote citizenship and develop an appreciation of our common American heritage including its multicultural richness. Multisensory teaching strategies will be used so those students of all learning styles will be addressed and given the opportunity to achieve academic success.
Devers ISD believes that education does make a difference in the lives of its students.

DEDICATED TO EDUCATIONAL SUCCESS

Devers Tigers School Directory
2009-2010
Administration
111 – Tax Office Lori Givens
114 – Business Manager Melissa Jordan
School Campus
121 – Cafeteria Mickie Cougot / Edna Johnson
123 / 115 – Principal / Superintendent Cody Abshier
124 / 131 – Secretary / Nurse Connie Sherill
125 – Athletic Director Tommy Pennington
126 – Library Shelia Ebarb
127 – Teacher’s Workroom
128 – Cafeteria Manager Mickie Cougot
Teacher/Staff E-Mail Addresses:
Barbay, Melissa – mbarbay@deversisd.net
Beasley, Cammie – cbeasley@deversisd.net
Glenn Brown – gbrown@deversisd.net
Mickie Cougot – mcougot@deversisd.net
Donna Davis – ddavis@deversisd.net
Janice Dunn – jdunn@deversisd.net
Shelia Ebarb – sebarb@deversisd.net
Kendra Edwards – kedwards@deversisd.net
Lori Givens - lgivens@deversisd.net
Dana Haidusek - dhaidusek@deversisd.net
Mary Hale – mhale@deversisd.net
Vickie Hebert - vhebert@deversisd.net
Melissa Jordan - mjordan@deversisd.net
Vivienne Kirkland – vkirkland@deversisd.net
Becky Lewis – blewis@deversisd.net
Enedina Mancilla - emancilla@deversisd.net
Cynthia Miller – cmiller@deversisd.net
Catherine Parker – cparker@deversisd.net
Tommy Pennington – tpennington@deversisd.net
Lana Prather – lprather@deversisd.net
Leland Simmons - lsimmons@deversisd.net
Shirley Tatum - statum@deversisd.net
Mike Trevathan – mtrevathan@deversisd.net
Lisa Westcott – lwestcott@deversisd.net
Amanda Williams – awilliams@deversisd.net
Sandi Zbranek - szbranek@deversisd.net







































This school periodically applies pesticides.

Information concerning these applications may be obtained from Cody Abshier at 936-549-7135.













Parental Acknowledgment Form


My child and I have received a copy of the Devers Schools’ Student Handbook for 2009-2010. I understand that the handbook contains information that my child and I may need during the school year and that all students will be held accountable for their behavior and will be subject to the disciplinary consequences outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.


Printed name of student:
Signature of student:
Signature of parent:
Date:
Please sign and date this page, remove it from the handbook, and return it to the student’s school.
*** A copy of this is online @ www.deversisd.net




























Student Directory Information Form

Certain information about district students is considered directory information and will be released to anyone who follows the procedures for requesting the information unless the parent or guardian objects to the release of the directory information about the student. If you do not want Devers ISD to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the district in writing by September 8th.


For the following school-sponsored purposes:

♦ Student’s name
♦ Address
♦ Telephone listing
♦ E-mail address
♦ Photograph
♦ Date and place of birth
♦ Major field of study
♦ Degrees, honor, and awards received
♦ Dates of attendance
♦ Grade level
♦ Most recent school previously attended
♦ Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
♦ Weight and height, if a member of an athletic team
♦ Enrollment status



Parent: Please circle one of the choices below:

I, parent of ______________________________ (student’s name), (do give) (do not give) the district permission to use the information in the above list for the specified school-sponsored purposes.

Parent signature Date

Directory information identified only for limited school-sponsored purposes remains otherwise confidential and will not be released to the public without the consent of the parent or eligible student.

Parent: Please circle one of the choices below:

I, parent of ______________________________ (student’s name), (do give) (do not give) the district permission to release the information in this list in response to a request unrelated to school-sponsored purposes.


Parent signature Date
PREFACE

To Students and Parents:
The Devers Student Handbook contains information students and parents are likely to need to ensure a successful school year. The handbook is organized alphabetically by topic. Throughout the handbook, the term "the student's parent" means parent, legal guardian or other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student.

Students and parents also need to be familiar with the Devers Student Code of Conduct, which sets out the consequences for inappropriate behavior. The Student Code of Conduct is required by state law, and is intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. This document may be found as an attachment bound with this handbook and posted outside the main office.

The Student Handbook is designed to be in harmony with Board policy and the Student Code of Conduct adopted by the Board. Please be aware that this document is updated annually, while policy adoption and revision is an ongoing process. Changes in policy that affect student handbook provisions will be communicated by newsletters and other communications to students and parents. These changes will generally supersede the provisions found in this handbook and made obsolete by the newly adopted policy.

After reading through the entire handbook with your child, keep it as a reference during this school year. If you are your child has any questions about any of the material in this handbook, please contact the school .

Also, please complete and return to your child’s teacher the following required forms included in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct:
1. Parental Acknowledgement Form
2. Student Directory Information Form
3. Student Code of Conduct Acknowledgement Form

ADMISSION

A student (or the student's parent) seeking enrollment in the District for the first time or following attendance in another Texas district, out-of-state attendance, private school attendance, or admission through a bonafide foreign exchange program should contact the principal at 936-549-7591. The following items are required prior to admission:
1. Certified Copy of Birth Certificate
2. Social Security Card
3. Immunization Records
4. Proof of permanent residence in Devers ISD

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN

The district’s Asbestos Management Plan, designed to be in compliance with state and federal regulations
addressing asbestos, is available in the central administration office. If you have any questions, please contact
Cody Abshier @ 936-549-7591.
ASSEMBLIES

Students are required to conduct themselves in assemblies as they do in class. Students who are tardy or who do not abide by district rules of conduct during an assembly shall be subject to removal and/or disciplinary action.

ATTENDANCE

Regular school attendance is essential for the student to make the most of his or her education--to benefit from teacher-led activities; to build each day's learning on that of the previous days, and to grow as an individual.

It is also the law in Texas:
• A student between the ages of 6 and 18 must attend school and District-required tutorial sessions unless the student is otherwise legally exempted or excused. School employees must investigate and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law. A student absent without permission from school, from any class, or from required tutorials, will be considered truant and subject to disciplinary action, which may include court action.
• To receive credit in a class, a student must attend at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered. The actual number of days a student must attend in order to receive credit will depend on whether the class is for a full semester or for a full year. A student who attends fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is offered cannot receive credit for the class unless the attendance review committee finds that the absences are the result of extenuating circumstances, such as:
• An extracurricular activity or public performance, subject to approval by the District's Board of Trustees
• A District-approved mentorship designed to meet requirements of an advanced measure for the Distinguished Achievement graduation program.
• Required screening, diagnosis, and treatment for Medicaid-eligible students
• A documented health care appointment--if the student begins class or returns to school on the same day as the appointment
• A temporary absence resulting from any cause acceptable to the teacher, principal, or superintendent including personal illness, or illness or death in the immediate family
• A juvenile court proceeding documented by a probation officer
• An absence required by state or local welfare authorities
• A family emergency or unforeseen or unavoidable instance requiring immediate attention
• An approved college visitation
If the committee determines that there have been extenuating circumstances, it will decide how the student may regain credit. If the committee determines, however, that there are no extenuating circumstances, the student or parent may appeal the decision to the District's Board of Trustees by filing a written request with the Superintendent.

Doctor’s Note after an Absence for Illness
Upon return to school, a student absent for more than 3 consecutive days because of a personal illness must bring a statement from a doctor or health clinic verifying the illness or condition that caused the student’s extended absence from school.

Please note:
• A student absent from school for any reason, other than for a documented health care appointment, will not be allowed to participate in school-related activities on that day or evening.
• In those rare circumstances when a student must be absent from school, the student--upon returning to school--must bring a note, signed by the parent, that describes the reason for the absence. A note signed by the student, even with the parent's permission, will not be accepted unless the student is 18 or older.
• A student absent for any reason should promptly make up specific assignments missed and/or complete additional in-depth study assigned by the teacher. A student who does not make up assigned work within the time allotted by the teacher will receive a grade of zero for the assignment.
• A student, who is tardy to class without an excuse, will be assigned lunch detention. Repeated instances of tardiness will result in more severe disciplinary action.
• A parent wishing to withdraw a student from school must present a signed request to the principal stating the reason for the withdrawal and the effective date.

AWARDS & HONORS

In addition to various academic awards given at Devers Elementary School, students are also honored in other categories such as attendance, cooperation, best individual effort on a project, etc. These honors are left to the discretion of faculty members and are awarded in subject areas in assemblies throughout the school year.


BUSES OR OTHER SCHOOL VEHICLES

In the Transportation Department, we are committed to transporting your child in the most enjoyable and safest manner possible. This can only happen if there is a spirit of cooperation and understanding between the student, parents and driver. Our bus drivers will make every effort to communicate with the parents in writing or by telephone any problems the driver may be having with a student prior to turning the student in to the principal.

The same rules apply on the bus as in a classroom according to school board policy and as outlined in the Devers District Discipline Management Plan. For safety violations, a student will be reported to school authorities who may bar the student temporarily or permanently from riding the bus.

When a rider is guilty of misconduct, he or she will be reported to the principal as a last resort via a Transportation Safety Report. The principal will initiate the appropriate disciplinary action.

Riding a school bus is a privilege, not a right. If a student does not follow bus rules they are in jeopardy of losing the bus riding privilege.

Bus Notes
In order to ride a different bus or get off at a different stop, a student must have a note from a parent or guardian. The student must have the note signed by an administrator and show the note to the bus driver upon boarding the bus.

Bus Rules and Regulations
1. Follow directions the first time they are given.
2. Stay in your assigned seat, facing the front at all times.
3. Keep your hands, feet, objects and personal belongings to yourself and inside the bus.
4. No pushing, shoving, fighting or vulgar language.
5. No eating, drinking or gum chewing unless permitted by the driver on special occasions.
6. Do not litter or be destructive. Damage to the bus other than normal usage will be paid for by the rider.
7. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to load or unload.
8. Be at the bus stop five (5) minutes before the bus arrives and form a single line six (6) feet away from the roadway. Expect to walk some distance to your bus stop as required by state regulations.
9. The above and any other actions by a rider that creates a safety hazard by demanding unnecessary attention of the driver is defined as misconduct.

Consequences
1st Incident Warning with a note sent to parents and possible assigned seat.
2nd Incident The student will be moved to the front seat for an indefinite period of time, reassigned seat and note sent to parents.
3rd Incident A Transportation Safety Report will be sent directly to the principal.

Severe Clause
Students will be sent directly to the principal via a Transportation Safety Report without warning for any of the following:
1. Fighting
2. Use of profanity or obscene gestures
3. Striking the bus driver
4. Possession or use of firearms or other weapons
5. Possession or use of alcohol or drugs
6. Intentionally committing a personal offense.

The School Administrator reserves the right to remove a student from a bus should he deem it necessary.

CAFETERIA SERVICES

The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers nutritionally balanced lunches daily. Free and reduced-price lunches are available based on a student’s financial need. Information on this program can be obtained from the school office by calling 936-549-7591. Information about a student’s participation is confidential.

A menu will be sent home with your child each month. Devers ISD welcomes you to eat lunch with your child.

Even though your child may not eat in the cafeteria, we ask that you apply for free and reduced meals. Your child’s eligibility allows the District to receive additional educational funding which helps our school.

Students are expected to do their part in keeping the cafeteria in good order by:
1. Maintaining their place in line
2. Depositing all breakfast/lunch litter in trash can
3. Returning all trays and utensils to the dish washing area
4. Leaving the table and floor in good condition for others
5. Taking no food or straws from the cafeteria

Meal prices:

Student Adult
Regular Breakfast $ .75 Breakfast $1.50
Reduced Breakfast $ .35 Lunch $4.00
Regular Lunch $1.25
Reduced Lunch $ .40

Payment for lunches will be made to the cafeteria. Students are encouraged to pay for lunches on a weekly or monthly basis. All money will be paid to the cafeteria manager. Meal charges are discouraged.

The district follows the federal and state guidelines regarding foods of minimal nutritional value being served or sold on school premises during the school day.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Students who change their residence, mailing address, or telephone number after enrollment should report the change promptly to the office so that records may be corrected in case of an emergency at school.

CHEERLEADER/MASCOTS RULES AND REGULATIONS

The primary objective of DJH cheerleaders/mascots is to render service to the school and community through formation and participation as a spirit organization. In addition to the above, the organization shall:
A. Foster good sportsmanship
B. Encourage group participation
C. Enhance individual talents
D. Promote good will among other campus organizations

Responsibilities of Members
Members Must:
A. Attend summer camp during dates set by the sponsor
B. Attend summer practice and practices during the school year
C. Attend all DJH cheerleader/mascot functions
D. Maintain reputations as elected leaders of our school

Membership
A. Eligibility for try outs - Any student either in 6th or 7th grade enrolled at Devers Jr. High
B. Try-Outs
1. Try-outs will be held once a year in the spring.
2. Candidates must attend a three day clinic. Attendance of the clinic is mandatory.
3. All applicants must have parents read and sign an information packet. Only upon return of this entire
packet will a student be permitted to try-out.
4. Applicants will be taught one dance, and one cheer with a combination of jumps; mascots will perform
a skit.
5. Cheerleaders/Mascots will be selected by a panel of three judges.




Points will be awarded for the following:
Cheerleader Mascot
Showmanship – 10 points Creativity – 30 points
Motions – 15 points Motions – 15 points
Jumps – 10 points Spirit – 15 points
Gymnastics – 10 points
Dance – 15 points

Cheerleaders/Mascots are subject to the no pass-no play UIL rule. In order to be eligible, a cheerleader/mascot must pass all classes every six weeks. In addition, if during any six weeks reporting period a cheerleader/mascot has a conduct grade lower than a C, the cheerleader/mascot will be ineligible until the next reporting period. Low academic averages or poor conduct in the classroom will not be tolerated.

The elected cheerleader/mascot is responsible for purchasing a uniform, shoes, and other cheerleading accessories. Also, the cheerleaders/mascots will attend a camp during the summer. The camp is also payable by the cheerleaders/mascots. We will endeavor to keep cost as low as possible, but parents need to be aware that the total cost for all of this could be as much as $180-$200. After the total cost is determined, a payment schedule will be provided. No items will be ordered until complete payment is received.

Cheerleaders/Mascots are representatives of Devers Jr. High, and as such, are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner at all times, adhering to the district’s conduct code and dress code, as well as the following list of expectations. Any infraction of either a district code or the code for our cheerleading squad/mascot will result in demerits, suspension, or dismissal.

Cheerleaders/Mascots will observe the following rules:
- Drug use or possession is prohibited.
- Profanity, vulgar language, and obscene gestures are prohibited.
- Gum is not allowed at practices, pep rallies, or games.
- Lead and cooperate in leading appropriate, supportive cheers and skits.
- While in uniform, no inappropriate behavior with others.
- While cheering, stay together as a group, do not leave the designated area in the company of interested spectators from our school or other schools. Do not leave the group to converse with other students. You are part of a team and should conduct yourself accordingly.
- Make-up and hair should always be appropriate and should be touched up during breaks, not in front of an audience.
- Only small earrings will be permitted while in uniform. Absolutely no hoops or dangling earrings, rings, bracelets, or necklaces should be worn.
- Fingernail polish should be clear or a French manicure.
- Take responsibility for being part of a team. Do your part for all activities. Do not rely on someone else to cover for you. Although you may not always like your assigned task, be aware that everyone has to do their part.
- Promote school spirit and respect for our school at all times.
- Know the cheers (if you don’t get them during the practices, it is your responsibility to practice on your on time).
- Be modest in conduct and dress. When at school, follow the school dress code.
- Abide by, uphold and respect all rules, even if you’re not in agreement with them.
- A POSITIVE and SPIRITED CHEERLEADER/MASCOT IS AN EXCELLENT CHEERLEADER/MASCOT!

A cheerleader/mascot will be subject to dismissal from the squad if found guilty of the following:
- smoking, drinking, using drugs
- using undesirable language or unacceptable behavior
- assignment to more than one in-school suspension
- defacing school property

The DJH Cheerleader/Mascot demerit system is in place as a disciplinary system. Demerits are only issued by the sponsor.
Demerits will be given as follows:
-Unsatisfactory conduct comments on report cards - 5
-Tardy to a game or activity - 5
-Unexcused absence from a game or activity - 5
-Failure to wear assigned uniform - 5
-Failure to abide by request of sponsor - 5
-Unexcused absence from practice - 4
-Third, unexcused absence from game or activity - 5
-Tardy to practice - 3
-Gum chewing at practice, pep rally, or game - 2

Attendance and promptness is very important! Please note if you are late, you will receive demerits. An alternative option to demerits for infractions will be implemented except for the following:
-Unsatisfactory conduct comments on report cards
-Third, unexcused absence from game or activity
-Failure to wear assigned uniform
For any other infractions, the option of taking demerits OR running five laps around the gym will be given. If the choice of running is selected and the infraction occurs at an event, the punishment will be completed during the next practice.

*Any cheerleader/mascot receiving more than 10 demerits will be suspended for one (1) pep rally and game.
*Any cheerleader/mascot receiving more than 15 demerits will be suspended for two (2) pep rallies and games.
*Any cheerleader/mascot receiving more than 20 demerits may be dismissed from the squad.

Merits are points accumulated for performing extra duties and tasks.
Merits will include but not limited to:
-All “A” Honor Roll + 5
-Perfect attendance per six weeks + 5
-A/B Honor Roll + 4
-Volunteering for community or school + 3
-Special recognition by teachers + 3

To receive merits, cheerleaders/mascots and others, may submit a letter and reason he/she thinks the
cheerleader /mascot deserves merits. This in no way guarantees the merits will be awarded. Any merits will be at the discretion of the sponsor.

Cheerleaders/Mascots are to be at every sponsored practice. If a cheerleader/mascot must miss a practice, the sponsor is to be notified in advance. The sponsor will then determine whether the absence is excused or unexcused.

Absences from practice due to medical reasons will be excused only if the sponsor is notified in advance. In addition to the advance notification, the cheerleader/mascot is to return with a note signed by the cheerleader’s/mascot’s parent stating the reason for the absence. A note from a physician should confirm two consecutive absences for medical reasons.

Unexcused absences from practice could result in the cheerleader/mascot being suspended from performing at the next scheduled function. For unexcused absences from summer practices, the cheerleader/mascot could be suspended from functions that are scheduled at the beginning of school. Again, the sponsor will be responsible for determining whether an absence is excused or unexcused.

Cheerleaders/Mascots must be present the day of any function/activity. If this regulation is not met, they will not be allowed to participate in that particular function/activity.

Students need to be aware that being a cheerleader/mascot is a huge commitment. It takes time, practice and much effort on their part.



Cheerleader/Mascot duties shall be as follows:
-Decorate gym and school for pep rallies/games
-Create spirit in the school on game days and during school functions
-Help recruit students and faculty members for pep rally skits and spirit promoting activities
-Attend all games and other selected functions/activities
-Know the rules of the games and be able to lead appropriate cheers
-Portray good sportsmanship and citizenship at all times

CLASS RANKING

The School Board recognizes that every student graduating has obtained an honor. This policy recognizes one valedictorian and one salutatorian in the graduating class.

Each student's quarter and/or semester grades shall be averaged for the sixth, seventh and eighth grade year plus the average of the fourth and fifth six weeks grades of the eighth grade year. All quarter and/or semester grades and the average of the fourth and fifth six weeks grades of the eighth grade year will be accumulated and divided by the number of grades recorded. Students that come into the district during the sixth, seventh, or eighth grade years must be able to present grades from another system that can be equated with our system and have completed at least 3 full consecutive semesters at Devers Jr. High School in order to be eligible for these honors. Since this is an academic honor, grades will be taken from the following curriculum areas to determine honor graduates: Science, Math, Social Studies, and Language Arts.
To assure the accuracy of averages, the Principal and two appointed staff members shall average grades to four or more decimal points and then meet as a committee to determine the honor graduates. The student with the highest average shall be the valedictorian and the student with the second highest average shall be the salutatorian. In the event of a tie (identical averages) for valedictorian honors, two shall be declared co-valedictorians and the student with the third highest average shall be the salutatorian. Should there be a tie (identical averages) for the salutatorian, the students with the second and third highest averages shall be declared co-salutatorians.

CLUBS

Student clubs and performing groups such as the cheerleaders, mascots, choir, and athletic teams may establish rules of conduct, and consequences for misbehavior, that are more strict than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the school shall apply in addition to any consequence specified by the organization. Each student member of a group imposing stricter standards shall be notified of behavior and of the specific consequences of violating the standards.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

To protect children from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school while contagious. Parents of a student with a communicable or contagious disease should contact the school nurse or principal so that other students who have been exposed to the disease can be alerted. These diseases include:

Amebiasis Measles (Rubeola)
Campylobacteriosis Meningitis, Bacterial
Chickenpox Mumps
Common Cold with Fever Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis)
Fifth Disease Ringworm of the Scalp
Gastroenteritis, Viral Rubella (German Measles)
Giardiasis Salmonellosis, incl. typhoid fever
Head Lice (Pediculosis) Scabies
Hepatitis, Viral (Type A) Shigellosis
Impetigo Streptococcal Disease, invasive
Infectious mononucleosis Tuberculosis, Pulmonary
Influenza Whooping Cough (Pertussis)


COMMUNICATION BETWEEN HOME & SCHOOL

Good communication between home and school regarding a child's education is more than a "plus": it’s essential for the student to make the most of the opportunities provided. School communication starts with information documents such as this handbook, progress reports and report cards, and student work for parents to review and sign.

Communication might also include requests for conferences--initiated by the school or the parent--to discuss student progress, to find out more about the curriculum and how the parent can support learning, to head off or resolve problems, etc. A parent who wants to schedule a phone or in-person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal should call the school office at 936-549-7591 for an appointment. Generally, a teacher will be able to meet with parents or return calls during his or her conference period, although other mutually convenient times before or after school might be arranged as well.

COMPLAINTS BY STUDENTS/PARENTS

Usually, a phone call or a conference can address student or parent complaints or concerns simply-- with the teacher. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled so easily, the District has adopted a standard complaint policy. In general, a parent or student should first discuss the complaint with the campus principal. If unresolved, a written complaint and a request for a conference should be sent to the Superintendent. If still unresolved, the District provides for the complaint to be presented to the Board of Trustees, members of the community elected to set policy and priorities for the District.

Some complaints require different procedures. The campus office or the Superintendent's office can provide information regarding specific processes for the following complaints:


• Discrimination on the basis of gender
• Sexual abuse or sexual harassment of a student
• Loss of credit on the basis of attendance
• Removal of a student by a teacher for disciplinary reasons
• Removal of a student to a disciplinary alternative education program
• Expulsion of a student
• Identification, evaluation, or educational placement of a student with a disability
• Instructional materials
• On-campus distribution of non-school materials to students

COMPUTER RESOURCES

District resources have been invested in computer technology to broaden instruction and to prepare students for an increasingly computerized society. Use of these resources is restricted to students working under a teacher's supervision and for approved instructional purposes only. Students and parents will be asked to sign a student agreement (separate from this handbook) regarding appropriate use of these resources; violations of this agreement may prompt termination of privileges and other disciplinary action.

Students and their parents should be aware that electronic communications---such as e-mail---performed on district computers are not private and may be monitored by district staff. [For additional information, see policy CQ]

Student Use of the Internet

Devers ISD is pleased to offer students access to a computer network for Internet research and communications. In order to gain access to the Internet, all students must obtain parental permission as verified by the signatures on the appropriate form. Should a parent prefer that a student not have Internet access, use of the computers is still possible for more traditional purposes such as word processing

Access to the Internet will enable students to explore thousands of libraries, databases, museums, and other repositories of information around the world. Devers ISD has purchased and implemented filtering software that will prevent most of the objectionable material from being viewed by students. While the purpose of the school is to use the Internet resources for constructive educational goals, students may find ways to access other materials. Families should be aware that some defamatory, inaccurate, or potentially offensive material may still penetrate the filtering software even though it is updated frequently. We believe that the benefits to students from access to the Internet in the forms of information resources and opportunities for collaboration exceed the disadvantages. But ultimately, parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media and information resources. Therefore, we support and respect each family’s right to decide whether or not to apply for access.

Students are responsible for appropriate behavior on the school’s computer network just as they are in a classroom. General school rules for behavior and communications apply. It is expected that users will comply with district standards and the specific rules set forth. The use of the network is a student privilege, not a student right, and may be revoked if abused. The user is personally responsible for his/her actions in accessing and utilizing the school’s computer resources. Any misconduct, inappropriate or unauthorized use while using district technology equipment will have punitive consequences. This includes e-mail. The students are advised never to access, keep, or send anything they would not want their parents or teachers to see.

Inappropriate materials or languages –profane, abusive or impolite language should not be used to communicate nor should materials be accessed which are not in line with the rules of school behavior. A good rule to follow is never view, send or access materials that you would not want your teachers or parents to see. Should students encounter such material by accident, they should turn off their monitor and report it to their teacher immediately.

Illegally copying---Students should never download or install any commercial software, shareware, or freeware on to school network drives or disks. Students should not copy other people’s work or intrude into other people’s files. Students may not remove Devers ISD property, including software, from the campus without permission from an administrator or an administrative designee. There will be severe discipline and legal consequences for such behavior.

Privacy---Network and computer storage areas may be treated like school lockers. The Devers ISD maintains the right to review student communications to insure that students are using the system responsibly.

CONDUCT

Applicability of School Rules:
As required by law, the board has adopted a Student Code of Conduct that prohibits certain behaviors and defines standards of acceptable behavior—both on and off campus—and consequences for violation of these standards. The district has disciplinary authority over a student in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Students and parents should be familiar with the standards set out in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as campus and classroom rules.
To achieve the best possible learning environment for all students, the Student Code of Conduct and other campus rules will apply whenever the interest of the district is involved, whether on or off school grounds, in conjunction with classes and school-sponsored activities.

Corporal Punishment:
Corporal punishment—spanking or paddling the student—may be used as a discipline management technique in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and policy FO (LOCAL) in the district’s policy manual.
As required by law, the District has developed and adopted a Student Code of Conduct that establishes prohibited behavior standards--both on and off campus--and consequences for violation of the standards. Students need to be familiar with the standards set out in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as campus and classroom rules, in order to avoid violations and the subsequent consequences.

Disruptions
As identified by law, disruptions include the following:
♦ Interference with the movement of people at an exit, entrance, or hallway of a district building without authorization from an administrator.
♦ Interference with an authorized activity by seizing control of all or part of a building.
♦ Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent participation in an authorized assembly.
♦ Use of force, violence, or threats to cause disruption during an assembly.
♦ Interference with the movement of people at an exit or an entrance to district property.
♦ Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent people from entering or leaving district property without authorization from an administrator.
♦ Disruption of classes or other school activities while on district property or on public property that is within 500 feet of district property. Class disruption includes making loud noises; trying to entice a student away from, or to prevent a student from attending, a required class or activity; and entering a classroom without authorization and disrupting the activity with loud or profane language or any misconduct.
♦ Interference with the transportation of students in vehicles owned or operated by the district.
Radios, CD Players, Other Electronic Devices and Games, and Cell Phones
Students are not permitted to possess such items as pagers, radios, CD players, tape recorders, camcorders, DVD players, cameras, electronic devices or games at school, unless prior permission has been obtained from the principal. Without such permission, teachers will collect the items and turn them in to the principal’s office. The principal will determine whether to return items to students at the end of the day or to contact parents to pick up the items.
For safety purposes, the district permits students to possess cell phones; however, cell phones must remain turned off during the instructional day and during all testing. The use of cell phones is strictly prohibited in locker rooms or restroom areas at any time while at school or at a school-related or school-sponsored event.
Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and may include confiscation of the device. The school may charge the owner for the release of certain telecommunications devices [See policy FNCE.] The district will not be responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen telecommunication devices.

CONFERENCES

Students and parents may expect teachers to request a conference if:
♦ the student is not maintaining passing grades or achieving the expected level of performance,
♦ the student presents any other problem to the teacher, or
♦ in any other case the teacher considers necessary.
The District encourages a student or parent who wants information or wants to raise a question or concern to confer with the appropriate teacher or principal. A parent who wishes to confer with a teacher may call the office for an appointment during the teacher's conference period. A parent may also request the teacher call the parent during a conference period or at another mutually convenient time.

CREDIT BY EXAMINATION

A student will be permitted to take an examination to earn credit for an academic course for which the student has no prior instruction. The dates on which examinations are scheduled during the 2009-2010 school year will be posted at a later date.

A student planning to take an examination for acceleration (or the student’s parent) must register with the principal no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled testing date. The District will honor a request by a parent to administer, on some other date, a test purchased by the parent from a State Board-approved university.

DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIAL

Written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, other visual or auditory materials may not be posted, sold, circulated, or distributed on any school campus by a student or a non-student without prior approval of the principal. If the material is not approved within two school days from the time it was submitted, it should be considered disapproved. Disapprovals may be appealed by submitting the disapproved material to the Superintendent; material not approved by the Superintendent within three days is considered disapproved. This disapproval may be appealed to the Board in accordance with policy. Any student who posts material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action. Materials displayed without this approval will be removed.


DRESS AND GROOMING

All students must be dressed and groomed in a manner conducive to a good learning environment. Clothing must be neat, clean, properly fitted, modest and worn with suitable underclothing at all times. The campus principal reserves the right to determine what is and is not appropriate.

All pants for both boys and girls must be pulled up and worn securely to the waist. Pants may not sag or reveal undergarments. No oversized apparel is permitted. Torn jeans, frayed hem, or ripped clothing is not permitted. No holes in jeans are permitted. Pants should be neatly hemmed and should not drag the floor. No chains or decorative zippers on pants. Graphics or text on the seat of pants is not permitted.

Girls – Shirts/blouses must cover the mid-drift when sitting, bending, stretching or reaching with arms above the head. Sleeveless shirts must have at least a three (3) inch strap. Shirts classified as undershirts, tank tops, net shirts, or spaghetti straps are not acceptable for school wear. No oversized apparel is permitted. Long t-shirts / long shirt tails are not permitted. Graphics or text on shirts must be in good taste and not reflect topics inappropriate for the school setting. (lewd, offensive, vulgar, or that advertise or depict tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, drugs or other substances under policy FNC (L).
Necklines on shirts/blouses should be fashioned in a way so the chest area is not exposed (i.e. low-cut clothing is not permitted).

Skirts, split-skirts, and dresses must be no shorter than three inches above the kneecap and allow one to walk, stoop, kneel and sit with modesty. The split on a skirt/dress must not split any higher than three inches above the kneecap.

Shorts must be no shorter than three inches above the kneecap. Shorts with splits must not be any higher than three inches above the kneecap. Lycra spandex shorts of any length are not permitted. Tight shorts of any material are not permitted. Boxer shorts, athletic cut shorts, biker shorts, wind shorts, compression shorts are not permitted.

Boys – Shirts should be no longer than fingertip length. No oversized apparel is permitted. Long T-shirts/long shirt tails are not permitted. Sleeveless shirts are not permitted except in P.E. Shirts classified as undershirts or tank tops are not acceptable for school wear. Graphics or text on shirts must be in good taste and not reflect topics inappropriate for the school setting. (lewd, offensive, vulgar, or that advertise or depict tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, drugs or other substances under policy FNC (L).

All Jr. High boys' shirts must be tucked in regardless of length.

Shoes – Shoes shall be chosen for safety, comfort, and quietness. They shall be buckled and laced tightly at all times during the day. Footwear traditionally worn around the home (such as house shoes or slippers) is not permitted. Students must wear tennis shoes during P.E./athletics class.

Headwear – No caps, hats, bandanas, sweatbands or scarves shall be worn or brought to school except in the case of educational or health purposes as determined by the campus principal.

Hair – Hair will be clean, neat and well groomed. Boys will not be allowed to wear excessively long haircuts. Hair in the back must be off the collar. Hair in front will not fall below the bottom of the eyebrows or the earlobe on the side. Sideburns must be neatly trimmed to extend no longer than the tip of the earlobe. Boys’ Afro hair should be no longer than three inches. Boys may not wear ponytails or Mohawks. Designs may not be trimmed or dyed into the hair or eyebrows. No facial hair will be permitted.

Hair that may cause a distraction and adversely affect the educational atmosphere of the school will not be permitted. Extreme hairstyles that include hair that is dyed an unnatural color (i.e. green, purple, pink, orange, etc,) will not be permitted. Wigs are not acceptable as a cover-up for hair not meeting the dress code.






Jewelry and Accessories

Girls may wear earrings, watches, bracelets, ankle bracelets, necklaces, and rings consistent with the guidelines set forth in school policy. Earring like jewelry attached in any way to any other part of the body is prohibited. Body piercing is not allowed.

Boys may wear watches, bracelets, necklaces, and rings consistent with the guidelines set forth in school policy. Body piercing is not allowed. Earrings are not permitted.

Makeup and Nail Polish

Girls may wear makeup and nail polish that is not excessive or distracting.
Boys may not wear makeup or nail polish.

Students may not wear any type of ink markings. Paint or ink on skin is not permitted.

NOTE: THE PRINCIPAL OR A DESIGNATED FACULTY MEMBER SHALL BE THE AUTHORITY AS TO WHAT CONSTITUTES DEVIATION FROM ACCEPTABLE.


DRILLS - FIRE, TORNADO, AND OTHER EMERGENCY DRILLS

Students, teachers, and other District employees shall participate in frequent drills of emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students must follow the direction of teachers or marshals quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner.

Fire Drill Bells
3 bells leave the building
1 bell halt; stand at attention
2 bells return to the classroom
Tornado Drill Bells
1 continuous bell move quietly but quickly to the designated locations
2 bells return to the classroom

EMERGENCY CLOSING

In the event of an emergency closing, the following plans will be used:

One plan is to announce the time of dismissal and send the students home. If parents cannot pick up their children, they will be kept at school under the control of the teachers until arrangements can be made to take them home. The principal will coordinate transportation of bus students.

The second plan is to move students to a place of safety within the school. If the students remain at school, they are to move to the area that affords the best protection and sit against the wall.

The control of dismissal or evacuation will be by the public address system, bell, fire gong, or runner.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT

If a student has a medical emergency at school or at a school-related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school will need to have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment. Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information up-to-date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies to medications, food, insect stings/bites, etc.). Keeping information current is of critical importance should an emergency arise.

The District is not responsible for medical expenses associated with a student’s injury. The District does make available, however, an optional, low-cost student accident insurance program to assist parents in meeting medical expenses. A parent who desires coverage for his or her child will be responsible for paying insurance premiums and for submitting claims.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, & ORGANIZATIONS

Participation in school and school-sponsored activities is an excellent way for a student to develop talents, receive individual recognition, and forge strong friendships with other students. Participation is a privilege. While many of the activities are governed by the University Interscholastic League—a statewide association of participating districts—eligibility for participation in many of these activities is governed by state law as well as UIL rules:

• A student who receives, at the end of any grade evaluation period, a grade below 70 in any academic class, other than an identified honors or advanced class, or a student with disabilities who fails to meet the standards in the Individual Education Plan (IEP) may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least three school weeks. An ineligible student may practice or rehearse, however. The student regains eligibility when the principal and teachers determine that he or she has: (1) earned a passing grade (70 or above) in all academic classes, other than those that are honors or advanced, and (2) completed the three weeks of ineligibility.
• A student is allowed up to ten absences from a class during the school year for extracurricular activities or public performances. All UIL activities approved by the Board are subject to these restrictions. A student who misses a class because of participation in a non-approved activity will receive an unexcused absence.
• Any restrictions on participation related to discipline are set out in the Student Code of Conduct.

Please Note: Student clubs and performing groups such as the National Junior Honor Society, cheerleaders/mascots, and athletic teams may establish codes of conduct—including consequences for misbehavior—that are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the Student Code of Conduct or by local policy will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization.
FEES

Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state and local funds with no charge to the student. A student, however, is expected to provide his or her own pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including:

• Costs for materials for a class project that the student will keep
• Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to extra-curricular activities
• Security deposits
• Personal physical education apparel and athletic equipment
• Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc.
• Voluntarily purchased student accident insurance
• Musical instrument rental and uniform maintenance, when uniforms are provided by the district.
• Personal apparel used in an extra-curricular activity that becomes the property of the student
• Fees for lost, damaged, or overdue library books
• Fees for optional courses offered for credit that requires use of facilities not available on District premises
• Summer school for courses that are offered tuition free during the regular school year
• A reasonable fee for providing transportation to a student who lives within two miles of the school
• A fee not to exceed $50 for costs of providing an educational program outside of regular school hours for a student who has lost credit due to absences and whose parent chooses the program in order for the student to meet the 90 percent attendance requirement. The fee will be charged only if the parent or guardian signs a District-provided request form.

Any required fee or deposit may be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay. Application for such a waiver may be made to the principal.





FUND RAISING

Student clubs, classes, organizations and parent groups will occasionally be permitted to conduct fund-raising drives. An application for permission must be made to the principal at least 30 days before the event. Unless approved by the principal, fund raising is not permitted on school property.

GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITIES

Questioning of Students
When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities wish to question or interview a student at school:
♦ The principal will verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority and ask for an explanation
of the need to question or interview the student.
♦ The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts to notify parents unless the interviewer raises what the
principal considers to be a valid objection.
♦ The principal ordinarily will be present unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid
objection.
Students Taken into Custody
State law requires the District to permit a student to be taken into legal custody:
♦ To comply with an order of the juvenile court
♦ To comply with the laws of arrest
♦ By law enforcement officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has engaged in delinquent conduct
or conduct in need of supervision
♦ By a probation officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has violated a condition of probation
imposed by the juvenile court
♦ To comply with a properly issued directive to take a student into custody
♦ By an authorized representative of Child Protective Services, Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory
Services, a law enforcement officer, or a juvenile probation officer, without a court order, under the conditions
set out in the Family Code relating to the student’s physical health or safety.
Before a student is delivered to a law enforcement officer or other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the officer’s identity and, to the best of his or her ability, will verify the official’s authority to take custody of the student. The principal will immediately notify the superintendent and will ordinarily attempt to notify the parent unless the officer or other authorized person raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection to notifying the parents. The principal does not have the authority to block a custody action; therefore, notification will mostly likely be made after the fact.

The District is also required by state law to notify:
• All instructional and support personnel who have responsibility for supervising a student who has been arrested or referred to the juvenile court for any felony offense or for certain misdemeanors.
• All instructional and support personnel who have regular contact with a student who has been convicted or adjudicated of delinquent conduct for any felony offense or certain misdemeanors.

HEALTH-RELATED MATTERS
General Information
Parent should provide written notification to the school nurse if their child has specific or chronic health problems.

Bacterial Meningitis
Bacterial meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria. Viral meningitis is the most common and the least serious. Medical management of viral meningitis consists of supportive treatment and there is usually no indication for antibiotics. Bacterial meningitis is very serious bacterial infection with the potential for serious, long-term complications. It is an uncommon disease, but requires urgent treatment with antibiotics to prevent permanent damage or death.

There are two common types of bacteria that cause meningitis: Strep pneumoniae causes pneumococcal meningitis and Neisseria meningitides causes meningococcal meningitis.

Someone with bacterial meningitis will become very ill. The illness may develop over one or two days, but it can also rapidly progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis will have the same symptoms.

Children (over one year old) and adults with meningitis may have a severe headache, high temperature, vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights, neck stiffness or joint pains, and drowsiness or confusion. In both children and adults, there may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots. These can occur anywhere on the body.

The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is based on a combination of symptoms and laboratory results. Bacterial meningitis is serious. If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority of people make a complete recovery. In some cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a permanent disability.

Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as diseases like the common cold or the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been. The germs live naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do not live long outside the body. They are spread when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing, sharing drinking containers, or utensils).

The germ does not cause meningitis in most people. Instead, most people become carries of the germ for days, weeks or even months. Usually, the body’s immune system controls the bacteria and prevents meningitis or other serious illness from developing.

Bacterial meningitis can be prevented by not sharing food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or cigarettes and by limiting the number of persons kissed.

Vaccines against pneumococcal disease are recommended both for young children and adults over 64. A vaccine against four meningococcal serogroups (A, C, Y, W-135) is available. These four groups cause the majority of meningococcal cases in the United States. This vaccine is recommended for all children at 11-12 years of age. It is also recommended for all children 13-18 years of age who have not been previously vaccinated. Unvaccinated college freshman who live in a dormitory should be vaccinated. The vaccine is safe and effective (85-90% of the time). It can cause mild side effects, such as redness and pain at the injection site lasting up to two days. Immunity develops within seven to ten days after the vaccine is given and lasts for up to five years.

If you think you or a friend might have bacterial meningitis, seek prompt medical attention.

For more information contact your school nurse, family doctor, and the staff at your local or regional health department. These are all excellent sources for information on all communicable diseases. Additional information may also be found at the web site for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov and the Texas Department of State Health Services: www.dshs.state.tx.us

Physical Activity for Students in Elementary and Middle School:
In accordance with policies at EHAB, EHAC, and FFA, the district will ensure that students in kindergarten through grade 5 engage in moderate or vigorous physical activity for at least 30 minutes per day or 135 minutes per week.
Students in middle or junior high school shall engage in 30 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity per day for at least four semesters OR at least 225 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity within a two-week period for at least four semesters.
For additional information on the district’s requirements and programs regarding elementary, middle, and junior high school student physical activity requirements, please see the principal.

Tobacco Prohibited:
The district and its staff strictly enforce prohibitions against the possession or the use of tobacco products by students and others on school property and at school-sponsored and school-related activities. [See the Student Code of Conduct and policies at FNCD and GKA.]

FitnessGram Assessment
The Texas Education Agency mandated annual physical fitness testing of all students’ grades 3-12 beginning in the 2007-2008 school year. Each student will be assessed using the FitnessGram components which were created by The Cooper Institute and selected by the state of Texas. Each student’s aerobic capacity, body composition, muscular strength, flexibility and endurance will be assessed.

Physical fitness testing will be conducted before the end of the school year. FitnessGram reports will be mailed out with end-of-the-year report cards.

FitnessGram information is available at: www.fitnessgram.net.

HOMEWORK

Homework is a necessary tool in education. It is used as review work, additional practice to reinforce idea concepts introduced in class, and to check comprehension before testing. Parents are encouraged to appreciate the reasons for homework assignments and see that all students complete their homework themselves and in the time allotted.

HONOR ROLL

The honor roll is announced at the close of each six weeks reporting period. In order to make the honor roll, a student must have all A’s or all A’s and B’s.

ILLNESSES

For the protection of all students, the following rules have been set up and will be followed at all times. A child will be sent home with:
• Temperature of 100 degrees or over
• Suspected contagious disease
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Feels too ill to remain at school and participate in class

To prevent the spread of a contagious disease, ill students must be fever free without the use of temperature reducing medications for 24 hours before returning to school. If your child has any of the above symptoms in the morning before coming to school, please keep him / her at home. A child with a cold or rash should be held at home for observation.

No treatment or medication will be given at school unless ordered specifically by the child’s doctor. An Administration of Medication form is to be completed when any medication is given at school. Emergency First Aid will be administered to cuts, scratches and minor accidents. No over the counter medications will be available at school. Parents may supply over-the-counter medication (Tylenol, pepto bismol, etc.) for an individual child. These over-the-counter medications must be accompanied by a parent note directing usage and must be kept in the nurse’s office.

After an absence for any reason, the student must bring a written excuse from the parent or legal guardian explaining the reason for absence. If this is not brought to the office, the child will receive an unexcused absence.

IMMUNIZATION

A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or statement that, for medical reasons or reasons of conscience, including a religious belief, the student will not be immunized.
The immunizations required are: Hepatitis B, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTap/Tdap), Haemophilus influenza type b, Pneumococcal, Inactivated Poliovirus, Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Hepatitis A, Meningococcal, and Varicella (chickenpox). The school nurse can provide information on age-appropriate doses or on an acceptable physician-validated history of illness required by the Department of State Health Services.

Exemptions
The law allows (a) physicians to write a statement stating that the vaccine(s) required would be medically harmful or injurious to the health and well-being of the child, and (b) parents/guardians to choose an exemption from immunizations requirements for reasons of conscience, including a religious belief. The law does not allow parents/guardians to elect an exemption simply because of inconvenience (a record is lost or incomplete and it is too much trouble to go to a physician or clinic to correct the problem).
For children needing medical exemptions, a written statement by the physician should be submitted to the school. Instructions for the affidavit to be signed by parents/guardians choosing the exemption for reasons of conscience, including a religious belief, can be found at www.ImmunizeTexas.com. Affidavit forms and instructions may also be obtained by writing the DSHS Immunization Branch (MC 1946), P.O. Box 149347, Austin, Texas 78714-9347.
The school will accept only official affidavit forms developed and issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Immunization Branch. No other forms or reproductions will be allowed.

Provisional Enrollment
All immunizations should be completed by the first day of attendance. The law requires that students be fully vaccinated against the specified diseases. A student may be enrolled provisionally if the student has an immunization record that indicates the student received at least one dose of each specified age-appropriate vaccine required by this rule. To remain enrolled, the student must complete the required subsequent doses in each vaccine series on schedule and as rapidly as is medically feasible and provide acceptable evidence of vaccination to the school. The school nurse or administrator shall review the immunization status of a provisionally enrolled student every 30 days to ensure continued compliance in completing the required doses of vaccine. If, at the end of the 30 day period, a student has not received a subsequent dose of vaccine, the student is not in compliance and the school shall exclude the student from school attendance until the required dose is administered.

A student can be enrolled provisionally, for no more than 30 days if he/she transfers from one Texas school to another and is waiting transfer of the immunization records.

Documentation
Since many types of personal immunization records are in use, any document will be acceptable provided a physician or public health personnel has validated it. The month, day, and year that the vaccination was received must be on all school immunization records created or updated after September 1, 1991.

Immunization Requirements
Reference Guide

4 year olds (Pre-K)
4 doses of DTP, DTap or DT
3 doses of Polio
1 dose of MMR on/after 1st birthday
1 dose of HIB on/after 15 months OR 3 doses with the 3rd dose given on/after 1st birthday and at least 2 months since #2
1 dose of PCV7 on OR after 24 months of age or 4 doses of PCV7 with one given after 1st birthday
3 doses of Hepatitis B
1 dose of Varicella on/after 1st birthday (if the child has not had chickenpox)
2 doses of Hepatitis A
***HIB and PCV7 not routinely recommended to children older than 5 years of age

Kindergarten –
5 doses of DTP, DTap, or DT with one dose on/after 4th birthday OR 4 doses with one dose after 4th birthday
4 doses of Polio with one dose on/after 4th birthday OR 3 doses if one dose is on/after 4th birthday
2 doses of MMR with 1st dose on/after 1st birthday
3 doses of Hepatitis B
2 doses of Hepatitis A
2 doses of Varicella with 1st dose on/after 1st birthday (if child has not had chickenpox)

Seventh Grade
3 doses of DTP, DTap or DT with one dose given on/after 4th birthday
1 dose Tdap/Td (booster dose of Tdap if it has been 5 years since last dose of tetanus containing vaccine)
***Td is acceptable in lieu of Tdap if a contraindication to pertussis exists
2 doses of MMR with 1st dose given on/after 1st birthday
2 dose of Varicella with 1st dose on/after 1st birthday (if child has not had chickenpox)
1 dose of Meningococcal
3 doses Hepatitis



Eighth Grade –Twelfth Grade
3 doses of DTP, DTap, or DT with one dose on/after 4th birthday
1 dose of Tdap/Td booster within last 10 years-Tdap required if it has been 10 years since previous dose of tetanus-containing vaccine***Td acceptable in lieu of Tdap if contraindicated to pertussis exists
4 doses of Polio with one dose on/after 4th birthday OR 3 doses if 3rd dose on/after 4th birthday
2 doses of MMR with the 1st dose on/after 1st birthday
3 doses of Hepatitis B
1 dose Varicella given on/after 1st birthday (f child has not had chickenpox) 2 dose schedule going into effect future date

***Please check with school nurse about immunization requirements.

INSURANCE

At the beginning of the school year, the District will make available to students and parents a low-cost student accident insurance program. Premiums will be paid to and claims will be submitted through the principal’s office, but the District shall not be responsible for the costs of treating injuries or assume liability for any other costs associated with an injury.
LEAVING SCHOOL

If for any reason besides illness a student wishes to leave school, he must have his parents or guardian write a request giving the following information:

♦ Statement of the exact time the student is to be dismissed
♦ Explanation of the necessity for his absence

Parents may also call the principal’s office and secure permission for a student to leave from the principal. The teacher will determine that permission has been granted before allowing the student to leave. Failure to follow the above policy will result in the student receiving an unexcused admission slip.

Students will be considered “in school” once they arrive on the campus. Should it become necessary to leave before reporting to class, the student must report this condition to the principal and receive a pass to leave the campus.

Leaving school without permission is not excusable and carries the penalty of any unexcused admission slip and may be considered truant.

A student withdrawing from school should report to the principal’s office to receive a Withdrawal Report Blank. Textbooks and all accounts must be balanced before a report card, book card or transcript of credits can be forwarded to another school. A student will not be permitted to withdraw without a parent or guardian asking that a student be withdrawn.

LOST AND FOUND ARTICLES

Any lost article should be reported to the principal's office. Any found article should be left in the principal's office. Losses should be reported immediately.

MAKEUP WORK

Routine and In-depth Makeup Work Assignments:
A teacher may assign the student makeup work based on the instructional objectives for the subject or course and the needs of the individual student in mastering the essential knowledge and skills or in meeting subject or course requirements.
A student will be responsible for obtaining and completing the makeup work in a satisfactory manner and within the time specified by the teacher. [For further information, see policy EIAB (LOCAL).]
A student who does not make up assigned work within the time allotted by the teacher will receive a grade of zero for the assignment.
A student will be permitted to make up tests and to turn in projects due in any class missed because of absence. Teachers may assign a late penalty to any long-term project in accordance with time lines approved by the principal and previously communicated to students.

DAEP or In-school Suspension Makeup Work:
A student removed to a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) during the school year will have an opportunity to complete, before the beginning of the next school year, a foundation curriculum course in which the student was enrolled at the time of removal. The district may provide the opportunity to complete the course through an alternative method, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school. The district will not charge the student for any method of completion provided by the district. [See policy FOCA (LEGAL).]
A student removed from the regular classroom to in-school suspension or another setting, other than a DAEP, will have an opportunity to complete (before the beginning of the next school year) each course the student was enrolled in at the time of removal from the regular classroom. The district may provide the opportunity by any method available, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school. [See policy FEA (LEGAL).]
The district will not charge the student for any method of completion provided by the district.

MEDICINE AT SCHOOL

In accordance with policies at FFAC, only authorized employees may administer medication at school.

Medication Procedures
1. Medications may be administered at school with a parent’s written statement that there is a need for such medication and the parent provides the medication. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medications. A written statement from a physician must be obtained if any prescription medication needs to be administered daily for more than 10 days (fax may be accepted).
Parents should request an extra labeled bottle from the pharmacist for sending medications to school. Students and/or parents will be notified when their medication supply is low and the empty bottle will be sent home for a refill. Refills should be brought to the school nurse.
2. Prescription medications must be in the original container, properly labeled with the student’s name, medication name, dosing instructions and ordered by a physician licensed to practice in the United States.
3. Sample medications provided by a physician may be administered if those medications are accompanied by a signed note from the physician and are appropriately labeled with the student’s name, medication name, dosing instructions and ordered by a physician licensed to practice in the United States.
4. Parents/ guardians must deliver and pick up all medications that are controlled substances to the school nurse. These medications (controlled substances) will be counted by the school nurse upon receiving them and the count will be documented.
5. Non-prescription medications must be in the original container. The dosing instructions on the over-the-counter packaging regarding age, amount and frequency of medication administration will be strictly followed. Requests to alter the dosage or frequency of medications must be accompanied by a physician’s written note stating the dosage of medication to be given. Make sure the medication is age appropriate for the student.
6. A student may be allowed to self-administer inhaled asthma medication, an Epi-pen, or a diabetes treatment ONLY if the following conditions have been complied with:
a. Written permission from the physician allowing the student to self-medicate or treat and an Individualized Health Care Plan for the student is on file in the nurse’s office.
b. The nurse has counseled the parent and the student on the school’s inability to monitor the student’s health condition during the school day while self-medicating or treating.
c. The student complies with all campus safety policies.
7. No district employee shall administer herbal substances, anabolic steroids or dietary supplements of any type except as provided in DISD Board Policy FFAC (Local): “Herbal substances or dietary supplements may be administered as prescribed by the physician, provided by the parent, and only if required by the Individualized Education Program or Section 504 plan of a student with disabilities.” Dietary supplements and herbals are not FDA approved.
8. A student with asthma or severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) may be permitted to possess and use prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis medication at school or at school-related events only if he/she has written authorization from his/her parent and physician or health-care provider. The student must also demonstrate to his/her physician or health-care provider, and the school nurse the ability to use the prescribed medication, including any devise required to administer the medication. If the student has been prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis medication for use during the school day, the student and parents should discuss this with the principal and nurse.
9. In accordance with a student’s individualized health plan for management of diabetes, a student with diabetes will be permitted to possess and use monitoring and treatment supplies and equipment while at school or at a school-related activity. See the school nurse or principal for information. [See Board Policy
FFAF (Legal)]

MOTORIZED VEHICLES

Students are not allowed to drive motorized vehicles on campus, to school or to school sponsored activities.

ORGANIZATIONS

National Junior Honor Society
The object of the Devers National Junior Honor Society is to encourage the development of character, to promote worthy leadership, to create enthusiasm for scholarship, and to stimulate a desire for service. The society is composed of students in grades seven and eight who meet membership requirements. Candidates must have been in attendance in Devers Middle School for one full semester and one or more six weeks.

The eligibility requirement for National Junior Honor Society is a numerical cumulative average of 85 or higher in the core subjects of math, science, history, reading, and language arts. Eligible students will be voted on by the faculty and chosen by a council made up of the principal and all junior high teachers.

Dismissal of member:
Members who fall below the standards, which were the basis for their selection, shall be considered on probation and shall be warned in writing by the chapter sponsor. While on probation, a member may NOT participate in any NJHS related events. A reasonable amount of time to correct the deficiency will be given if the basis for probation warrants it: Various, but not all reasons for probation shall be:
1. An “N” in conduct in any class
2. A six-week core subject average below 85
3. Violations of the Student Code of Conduct
4. ISS – First Offense
5. Suspension – First Offense
6. Excessive absences
7. Awaiting trial or court action for misdemeanor or felony – student shall inform the NJHS sponsor the first day back to school after the incident. The student shall be charged with one additional violation for failure to notify the sponsor.
8. Missing two NJHS meetings/activities

In case of a flagrant violation of school rules or civil laws, a member does not necessarily have to be warned, and may be automatically dismissed. All members are entitled to a hearing in front of a faculty council. This hearing must be requested in writing by the member and sent to the NJHS sponsor within two weeks of the dismissal. Failure to meet the two-week request deadline shall result in the forfeiture of the privilege to meet with the faculty council. Some causes for dismissal may include, but are not limited to:
1. Receiving a conduct grade of “U” or two successive “N’s”.
2. A second six-week core subject average, not necessarily consecutive, below 85
3. Continued violations of the Student Code of Conduct
4. ISS – Second Offense
5. Suspension – Second Offense
6. Continuation of excessive absences
7. Issued a Minor in Possession, drug related citation/charge or arrested/charged for a felony.
Student shall inform NJHS sponsor the first day back to school after the incident.
8. Missing three or more NJHS meetings/activities

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT, RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS

Education succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school, a partnership that thrives on communication, and includes parents, teachers, administrators, and the Board of Trustees. Every parent is urged to:

• Encourage your child to put a high priority on education and to commit to making the most of the educational opportunities provided by the school.
• Review the information in the student handbook (including the attached Student Code of Conduct) with his or her child and sign and return the acknowledgment form. A parent with questions is encouraged to contact the principal’s office.
• Become familiar with all of the child’s school activities and with the academic programs offered in the District. Discuss with the principal any questions, such as concerns about placement, assignment, and the options available to the child. Monitor the child’s academic progress and contact teachers as needed.
• Exercise the right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other aids, and to examine tests that have been administered to his or her child.
• Review your child's school records when needed. A parent may review (1) attendance records, (2) test scores, (3) grades, (4) disciplinary records, (5) counseling records, (6) psychological records, (7) applications for admission, (8) health and immunization information, (9) teacher and counselor evaluations, (10) reports of behavioral patterns, and (11) state assessment instruments that have been administered to his or her child.
• Grant or deny any written request from the District to make a videotape or voice recording of the child unless the videotape or voice recording is to be used for school safety; relates to classroom instruction or a
co-curricular or extracurricular activity; or relates to media coverage of the school as permitted by law.
• Temporarily remove the child from the classroom, if an instructional activity in which the child is scheduled to participate conflicts with the parent’s religious or moral beliefs. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester. Further, the child must satisfy grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the school and by the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
• Become a school volunteer. For further information, contact the principal’s office at 936-549-7591.
• Participate in campus parent organizations. The activities are varied, ranging from athletic boosters to campus and District planning committees formulating plans to improve student achievement. For further information, contact the principal’s office.
• Attend Board meetings to learn more about District operations, including the procedure for addressing the Board when appropriate.

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT POLICY

Philosophy:
The staff of Devers ISD has formed a partnership with the parents/guardians of their student to facilitate student learning for improved student achievement and the attainment of the State’s high academic standards. While the staff of Devers ISD is completely committed to providing each and every student an equitable and quality education, the staff recognizes the value of parental participation in every student’s education. Parents/guardians are students’ invaluable first teachers and their continued support of their students’ education is essential to student success.

Development of the Title I, Part A Parental Involvement Plan:
Through the activities of the Site-Based Decision Making Committee (SBDMC), committees composed of administrators, teachers, parents, and community members, and the annual Title I, Part A students were involved in the joint development of the Devers ISD Title I, Part A Parent Involvement Policy. (1997-1998 was the first year) Parents’ comments from parent-teacher conferences, parent surveys, and other meetings to solicit parent input were used in the development of the policy. The Draft Plan, presented to Title I, Part A parents for their approval, was adopted and then distributed as the approved policy to all Title I, Part A parents, and placed on file in the Superintendent’s office for audit purposes. The Policy is reviewed annually to ensure that it continues to meet the needs of our students.

Parental Involvement in the Campus/Program Improvement Process:
Through the activities of the SBDMC’s meetings, campus-level Title I, Part A parental involvement meetings, and parent-teacher conferences, parents will be involved on a continuous basis in the process to review school programs and school improvement.

LEA Coordination, Technical Assistance, and Support Effective Parental Involvement Efforts:
The Devers ISD superintendent and principal will provide the coordination, technical assistance, and support necessary to help plan and implement effective parental involvement efforts through professional development, parent training, and campus-wide and district-wide parental involvement activities.

District-wide Parental Involvement:
Prior to the consideration that students may be served through special populations and/or services, to facilitate the development of a strong parental involvement program and educational system in the Devers ISD, all parents will be recruited to participate in the district parental involvement program. Special attention will be given to parents with students in special populations programs (Title I, Part A, State Compensatory and Accelerated Instruction, Special Education, English as a Second Language, etc.) to ensure that guidelines governing these parental involvement programs are addressed. While maintaining the integrity of the requirements of these programs, a concerted effort will be made to integrate all parental involvement activities in the Devers ISD.

Parental Involvement Program Evaluation:
The evaluation of the Title I, Part A Parental Involvement Program, as well as the entire district’s parental involvement program, will be conducted through the annual Title I, Part A meeting, survey results, and parental feedback during parent-teacher conferences. The SBDMC of the Devers ISD will use the information from these sources to design strategies for the revision of the Parental Involvement Program, the Title I, Part A Parental Involvement Policy, and to school improvement.

PARENTAL RIGHTS

Obtaining Information and Protecting Student Rights
Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation-funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education- that concerns:
♦ Political affiliation or belief of the students or the student’s parent
♦ Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family
♦ Sexual behavior or attitudes
♦ Illegal, antisocial, self-incrimination, or demeaning behavior
♦ Critical appraisals of individuals with whom the student has a close family relationship
♦ Relationships privileged under law, such as relationship with lawyers, physicians, and ministers
♦ Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents
♦ Income, except when the information is required by law and will be used to determine the student’s eligibility
to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such program

You will be able to inspect the survey or other instrument and any instructional materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation.

“Opting Out” of Surveys and Activities

As a parent, you have the right to receive notice of and deny permission for your child’s participation in:
♦ Any survey concerning the private information listed above, regardless of funding
♦ School activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information gathered from your child
for the purpose of marketing or selling the information
♦ Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening required as a condition of attendance,
administered and scheduled by the school in advance and not necessary to protect the immediate health and
safety of the student. Exceptions are hearing, vision, or scoliosis screening, or any physical exam or screening
permitted or required under state law.

PARTIES

Parties are permitted during the school day. These parties are primarily the responsibility of the room mothers. They generally plan and pay the expenses of the parties. However, the teacher will cooperate by giving advice and checking to see that plans have been made. It is necessary for room mothers to discuss these parties in advance with the homeroom teacher in order that they know our policy. Parties will be held the last period of the school day. Birthday parties for students and teachers are not to be held at school. Invitations to private parties will be passed out at school only if all students in the class are receiving an invitation and the teacher has approved.



PEST CONTROL

The District periodically applies pesticides inside the school buildings. Parents who want to be notified prior to pesticide application may contact Cody Abshier, Principal/Superintendent.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION EQUIPMENT

All physical education and athletic equipment (uniforms) checked out to the individual student are the responsibility of that student until checked back in. Any lost, stolen or misplaced equipment due to careless behavior must be paid for by the student.

PLEDGE TO THE FLAG / MOMENT OF SILENCE

State law requires students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States and Texas flags followed by a moment of silence every school day. You may request in writing that your child be excused from participation in the daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag. State law does not allow your child to be excused from participation in the required moment of silence or the silent activity that follows. The student may choose to reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity as long as the activity does not interfere with or distract others.

You may request in writing that your child be excused from reciting a portion of the text of the Declaration of Independence during Celebrate Freedom Week. State law requires the recitation as a part of social studies classes in grades 3-12 unless (1) you provide a written statement requesting that your child be excused, (2) the District determines that your child has a conscientious objection to the recitation, or (3) you are a representative of a foreign government to whom the United States government extends diplomatic immunity.



POSTERS

The principal must first approve signs and posters that students wish to display. Posters displayed without authorization will be removed. Any student who posts printed material without approval shall be subject to disciplinary action.
PRAYER

Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not encourage, require, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity.

PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE

The Principal's office is open from 7:00 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. each school day. Parents and students are welcome to make arrangements to meet with the principal before 7:00 a.m. and after 3:30 p.m. All school business should be transacted during these hours. Parents should be aware that teachers are on duty until 3:15 p.m. each afternoon. Upon arrival on campus, students should gather in the cafeteria prior to the first bell.

The office is where students take care of school business. Students go there to enroll, withdraw, file excuses for absences, secure admits, and secure permission to leave school during the day.

PROMOTION, RETENTION, AND PLACEMENT IN GRADES K - 8

Students shall be promoted from one grade to the next only on the basis of academic achievement. In grade one and above, a student must have an overall average of 70 or above as well as an average of 70 or above in language arts and mathematics in order to be promoted. Also, in Grade 3, a student must pass the Reading portion of the TAKS test and in grade 5, the student must pass the Reading and Math portion of the TAKS test. Below grade one; promotion may be granted using assessment methods other than numerical grades.

Students in grades 6 - 8 must have an overall average of 70 or above, as well as an average of 70 or above in at least three of the following subjects: language arts (including reading improvement if required), mathematics, social studies, and science. If a student's grade average in any subject or course is "borderline" or below 70 at the end of the first three weeks of any grading period, the student's parents shall be notified.

Students in grades 6 - 8 who are not promoted shall be retained in the same grade or placed in an alternative education program.

In addition, at certain grade levels a student ---with limited exceptions---will be required to pass the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), if the student is enrolled in a public Texas school on any day between January 1 and April 15 and is a Texas resident during the week that the TAKS is administered the first time.

♦ In order to be promoted to grade 4, students must perform satisfactorily on the reading section of the grade 3
assessment in English or Spanish.

♦ In order to be promoted to grade 6, students enrolled in grade 5 must perform satisfactorily on the mathematics
and reading sections of the grade 5 assessment in English or Spanish.

♦ In order to be promoted to grade 9, students enrolled in grade 8 must perform satisfactorily on the mathematics
and reading sections of the grade 8 assessment in English.

Parents of a student in grade 3, 5, or 8 who does not perform satisfactorily on his or her exams will be notified that their child will participate in special instructional programs designed to improve performance. Such students will have two additional opportunities to pass the test.


PROTECTION OF STUDENT RIGHTS

No student will be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation—funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education—that concerns:
• Political affiliations
• Mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the student or family
• Sexual behavior and attitudes
• Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, and demeaning behavior
• Criticism of other individuals with whom the student or the student's family has close family relationship
• Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and ministers
• Income, except when the information will be used to determine the student’s eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.
Parents shall be able to inspect any teaching materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation.

RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL

Because class time is important, doctor’s appointments should be scheduled, if possible, at times when the student will not miss instructional time.
A student who will need to leave school during the day must bring a note from his or her parent that morning and follow the campus sign-out procedures before leaving the campus. Otherwise, a student will not be released from school at times other than at the end of the school day. Unless the principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be released before the end of the instructional day.

If a student becomes ill during the school day, the student should receive permission from the teacher before reporting to the school nurse. The nurse will decide whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify the student’s parent.
REPORT CARDS

Written reports of students' grades and absences or performance in each class or subject are issued to parents at least once every six weeks. At the end of the first three weeks of a grading period, parents are given written notice if the student's grade average is near or below 70 or below the expected level of performance in any course. If a student receives a grade of less than 70 in any class or subject during a grading period, the parent will be requested to schedule a conference with the teacher of that class or subject. The report card or unsatisfactory progress report will state whether tutorials are required for a student who receives a grade below 70 in a class or subject. Report cards and unsatisfactory progress reports must be signed by the parent and returned to the school within 3 days.

Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten
Achievement or progress in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten shall be reported to parents as Satisfactory, Improving, Needs Improvement and Unsatisfactory.

SAFETY / ACCIDENT PREVENTION

Student safety on campus or at school-related events is a high priority of the District. Although the District has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensure school safety. Students should:
• Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk.
• Follow the Student Code of Conduct and any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers.
• Remain alert to and promptly report safety hazards, such as intruders on campus.
• Know emergency evacuation routes and signals.
• Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other District employees who are overseeing the welfare of students.

SCHOOL FACILITIES

The taxpayers of the community have made a sustained financial commitment for the construction and upkeep of school facilities. To ensure that school facilities can serve those for whom they are intended—both this year and in the coming years—littering, defacing, or damaging school property is not tolerated. Students will be required to make restitution for damages they cause and shall be subject to disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

SEARCHES BY TRAINED DOGS

Devers I.S.D. does periodically use trained dogs for searching cars, lockers, desks and other areas of the school campus. The alert of a trained dog to a locker, car, or other articles provides reasonable cause for a search of the locker, car, and/or other articles.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS

The District provides special programs for gifted and talented students, bilingual students, and migrant students, students with limited English proficiency, dyslexic students and students with disabilities. The coordinator of each program can answer questions about eligibility requirements, as well as programs and services offered in the District or by other organizations. A student or parent with questions about these programs should contact the principal’s office.

Options and requirements for providing assistance to students who have learning difficulties or who need or may need Special Education.
If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the person listed below to learn about the district’s overall general education referral or screening system for support services. This system links students to a variety of support options, including referral for a special education evaluation. Students having difficulty in the regular classroom should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other support services that are available to all students.

At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for special education services. Within a reasonable amount of time, the district must decide if the evaluation is needed. If evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to provide consent for the evaluation. The district must complete the evaluation and the report within 60 calendar days of the date that the district received the written consent. The district must give a copy of the report to the parent.

If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the district will provide the parent with a written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice will include a statement that informs the parent of their rights if they disagree with the district. Additionally, the notice must inform the parent how to obtain a copy of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards – Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities.

The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education is Lana Prather, 936-549-7591.

STUDENT RECORDS

A student's school records are confidential and are protected from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record is maintained for each student from the time the student enters the District until the student withdraws or graduates. This record moves with the student from school to school.

By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is under 18 or a dependent for tax purposes. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights.

The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The Superintendent is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated. Records may be reviewed during regular school hours upon completion of the written request form. The records' custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records.

If circumstances prevent a parent or eligible student from inspecting the records, the District will either provide a copy of the requested records, or make other arrangements for the parent or student to review the requested records.

Parents of a minor or a student who is a dependent for tax purposes, the student (if 18 or older), and school officials with legitimate educational interests are the only persons who have general access to a student's records.
"School officials with legitimate educational interests" include any employees, agents, or Trustees of the district; cooperatives of which the district is a member; or facilities with which the district contracts for the placement of students with disabilities, as well as their attorneys and consultants, who are:
♦ working with the student;
♦ considering disciplinary or academic actions, considering the student’s case, and Individual Education Plan
(IEP) for a student with disabilities under IDEA, or an individually designed program for a student with
disabilities under Section 504;
♦ compiling statistical data; or
♦ investigating or evaluation programs.

The parent's or student's right of access to and copies of, student records does not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records, such as teachers' personal notes on a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher, records pertaining to former students after they are no longer students in the District, and records maintained by school law enforcement officials for purposes other that school discipline do not have to be made available to the parents or student.

Certain officials from various governmental agencies may have limited access to the records. The District forwards a student's records on request and without prior parental consent to a school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. Records are also released in accordance with court order or a lawfully issued subpoena.

Unless the subpoena is issued for law enforcement purposes and the subpoena orders that its contents, existence, or the information sought not be disclosed, the District will make a reasonable effort to notify the parent or eligible student in advance of compliance.

Parental consent is required to release the records to anyone else. When the student reaches 18 years of age, only the student has the right to consent to release of records.

A student over 18, and parents of minor students may inspect the student's records and request a correction if the records are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy or other rights. If the District refuses the request to amend the records, the requestor has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged; parents and the student are not allowed to contest a student's grade in a course through this process.

Parents of the student have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the District is not in compliance with the law regarding student records.

Copies of student records are available at a cost of 10 cents per page, payable in advance. Parents may be denied copies of a student's records (1) after the student reaches age 18 and is no longer a dependent for tax purposes; (2) when the student is attending an institution of post-secondary education; (3) if the parent fails to follow proper procedures and pay the copying charge; or (4) when the District is given a copy of a court order terminating the parental rights. If the student qualifies for free or reduced price meals and the parents are unable to view the records during regular school hours, upon written request of the parent, one copy of the record will be provided at no charge.

Certain information about district students is considered directory information and will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it, unless the parent objects to the release of any or all directory information about the child. The opportunity to exercise such an objection was provided on the form signed by the parent to acknowledge receipt of this handbook.

Directory information includes: a student's name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, awards received in school, and most recent previous school attended.

Special Education Records
Parents of a student with disabilities who has been provided special education services by the District will be notified when any information that specifically identifies the student is no longer needed. If the parent requests destruction of the information and the time established by law for retention has expired, the records will be destroyed. However, if the retention period established by law has not expired, the material will be deleted from the records but the records will be maintained until the time has expired.


TARDINESS
Repeated instances of tardiness will result in disciplinary action, in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

TESTING

In addition to routine testing and other measures of achievement, students at certain grade levels will take state assessment tests:

♦ TAKS Test Math and Reading Grades 3 - 8
♦ TAKS Test Writing Grades 4 & 7
♦ TAKS Test Science Grade 5 & 8
♦ TAKS Test Social Studies Grade 8
♦ Elementary ITBS
♦ Texas Primary Reading Inventory

TEXTBOOKS

State-approved textbooks are provided free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be covered by the student, as directed by the teacher, and treated with care. A student who is issued a damaged book should report the damage to the teacher. Any student failing to return a book issued by the school loses the right to free textbooks until the book is returned or paid for by the parent or guardian. However, a student shall be given textbooks for use at school during the school day.




TOBACCO PRODUCTS - SMOKING

Law on all district-owned property prohibits smoking or using tobacco products. This includes all buildings, playground areas, parking facilities, and facilities used for athletics and other activities. Drivers of district-owned vehicles are prohibited from smoking while inside the vehicle. Notices stating that smoking is prohibited by law and punishable by a fine are displayed in prominent places in all school building


TRAVEL – SCHOOL SPONSORED

Students who participate in school-sponsored trips are required to use transportation provided by the school to and from the event. However, the principal may make an exception if the parent personally requests that the student be permitted to ride with the parent, or the parent presents—no later than the day before the scheduled trip--a written request that the student be permitted to ride with an adult designated by the parent.

VEHICLES ON CAMPUS

Vehicles parked on school property are under the jurisdiction of the school. The school may search any vehicle any time a reasonable cause exists to do so.

VISITORS

Parents and other visitors are welcome to visit Devers School. For the safety of those within the school, all visitors must sign in at the front office and sign out on leaving. Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time are permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher so long as their duration or frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment. All visitors must obtain a visitor’s badge from the office and wear it at all times when on campus.
©2009 Devers ISD - All rights reserved.