The first bell rings at 8:00AM. The tardy bell rings at 8:03AM. As soon as the 8:00AM bell rings, the front door is locked for student safety. Students arriving to class after 8:03AM will be counted as tardy and earn consequences based upon the frequency and severity of the tardies. Please note that schedules are subject to change.

Chapter 1: Introductory Information & General Notices

Welcome

We, the faculty, would like to welcome each of you to another school year. We will do everything in our power to help make it a successful one, but we expect you to do your part. We are available before and after school when you need us. We also have planning times during which we meet with parents and students. Because we have high expectations for our students, we set high standards. Please do not be satisfied with less than your best work in every subject. Let’s make a strong commitment to excellence this year! We believe that teachers, students, parents, staff, administrators, and others must form a team effort to develop literate, problem-solving, kind, and productive members of our society.

This handbook is not intended to create a contractual relationship with the student.

The policies herein coincide with MCUSD #40's Board of Education Policies and Procedures. The MCUSD #40 Board of Education does not intend to limit its ability, nor the ability of its administrators, and/or faculty to respond to situations which are not specifically addressed herein, and agrees that the administration may need to make supplemental rules when certain situations arise. The Board of Education’s comprehensive policy manual is available for public inspection at the high school principal’s office and the Unit office, located at:

Marissa CUSD #40

1 E. Marissa St.

Marissa, IL 62257

618-295-2313

Membership or participation in school-sanctioned activity is a privilege and not a property right. Students and families are encouraged to read through the handbook to have a better understanding of what is to be expected while attending Marissa Jr. Sr. High School. All Jr. Sr. High students are expected to review the handbook in its entirety before signing that they understand what is expected at Marissa Jr/Sr High School.

MCUSD Mission Statement

It is the mission of Marissa Unit #40 School System to foster and develop a desire to learn, provide and establish tools to know how to learn, and build and instill confidence to know that the student can learn. To accomplish this mission, the following are our objectives:

Establish a clear school mission.
Provide each student with the opportunity to learn.
Base each subject’s instructional program upon a tightly coupled curriculum.
Have high expectations and standards for student achievement.
Carefully monitor student progress.
Provide a safe and orderly environment for learning.
Develop and provide instructional leadership.
Ensure parent participation and assistance.
Each school periodically reports its “effective school” progress to the Board of Education.

To support this process, the Board of Education hereby commits itself, its policies, and the District’s resources.

Board of Education

The School Board governs the school district and is elected by the community.

The Marissa Community Unit District #40 Board of Education Members are:

President: Jeremy Wiley

Vice President: Pete Pannier

Secretary: Dana Fritsche

Members: Chelsea DeMange, Jennifer Demsar, Laci Harper, Jennifer Schremp

Administration

Superintendent: Jeff Strieker jstrieker@marissa40.org

Jr./Sr. High Principal: Melissa (Missy) Meyer mimeyer@marissa40.org

Elementary Principal: Lacey Schmersahl lschmersahl@marissa40.org

District Assistant Principal: Kyle Schwartz kschwartz@marissa40.org

District Staff

Admin. Assistant Lori Selman lselman@marissa40.org

Bookkeeper Stephanie Sabo ssabo@marissa40.org

Building Maintenance Joe Perry jperry@marissa40.org

Bus Maintenance/Grounds Russ Clark rclark@marissa40.org

Finance Specialist Shannon Owings sowings@marissa40.org

Food Service Director Natalie Krause nkrause@marissa40.org Nurse Trish Baker tbaker@marissa40.org

Psychologist Beth Welsh bwelsh@marissa40.org

Speech Pathologist Brittany Segelhorst bsegelhorst@marissa40.org Technology Director Scott Brown sbrown@marissa40.org

Marissa Jr./Sr. High School

Admin. Assistant Mallory Watkins mwatkins@marissa40.org

Agriculture Kim Portz kportz@marissa40.org

Art Justin Maynard jmaynard@marissa40.org

Band Michael Maschmeier mmaschmeier@marissa40.org

Business/Workforce Ed Jason Faust jfaust@marissa40.org

Custodian Rocky Potter rpotter@marissa40.org

Custodian Rick Rhodes rrhodes@marissa40.org

Driver’s Ed/PE Jason Smith jsmith@marissa40.org

English Jr. High Kelli Canning kcanning@marissa40.org

English Sr. High Mindy Allen-James mallenjames@marissa40.org

English Sr. High Rachael Reuss rreuss@marissa40.org

Family and Consumer Sci. BreAnn Pannier bpannier@marissa40.org

Food Service Cook Natalie Dickerson ndickerson@marissa40.org

Food Service Cook Tracy Gibbs tgibbs@marissa40.org

Food Service Cook Becky Gregory bgregory@marissa40.org

Food Service Cook Danielle Murphy dmurphy@marissa40.org

History/Government Tyson Rheinecker trheinecker@marissa40.org

Mathematics Darin Degenhart ddegenhart@marissa40.org

Mathematics Anne Trieb atrieb@marissa40.org

Mathematics Steve Kidd skidd@marissa40.org

Paraprofessional Heather Bollmeier hbollmeier@marissa40.org

Paraprofessional Donna Galle dgalle@marissa40.org

Paraprofessional Kristy Hall khall@marissa40.org

Paraprofessional Mallory Jablonski mjablonski@marissa40.org

Paraprofessional Connie Johnson cjohnson@marissa40.org

Paraprofessional Sheryn Morris smorris@marissa40.org

Paraprofessional Stephanie Pitchford spitchford@marissa40.org

Paraprofessional Lisa Reitz lreitz@marissa40.org

PE/Health Kaelyn Rheinecker krheinecker@marissa40.org

Project Up/Paraprofessional Michelle Bollmeier mbollmeier@marissa40.org

Project Up Joe Wheeler jwheeler@marissa40.org

School Counselor Angela Birch abirch@marissa40.org

Science/STEM/PE Jeff Miller jmiller@marissa40.org

Science Alexia Maschmeier amaschmeier@marissa40.org

Science Jill Prest jprest@marissa40.org

Social Studies/Geography Katie Peck kpeck@marissa40.org

Special Education Alicia Hiller ahiller@marissa40.org

Special Education JoAnn Jones jjones@marissa40.org

Special Education Rachel Kinzinger rkinzinger@marissa40.org

District Contact Information

DISTRICT OFFICE JR./SR. HIGH SCHOOL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

1 E. Marissa Street 300 School View Drive 206 E. Fulton St.

Marissa, IL 62257 Marissa, IL 62257 Marissa, IL 62257

(618) 295-2313 (618) 295-2393 (618) 295-2339

(618) 295-2609 Fax (618) 295-2276 Fax (618) 295-3673 Fax

Enrollment

The parent/guardian of any student wishing to enroll in the district must prove residency of that student, within the district.
All students under the age of 18 must have a parent/guardian or foster parent present in order to enroll in school.
All necessary Health Requirements must be satisfied prior to the beginning of the school year. Details of these requirements are provided to all students and their parents at the MJSHS office.
Where appropriate, the family must provide proof of court-appointed custody and/or guardianship.
The district’s policy regarding students who have gone into a treatment facility states that re-enrollment in Marissa C.U.S.D. #40 following entry into a residential treatment facility, requires the following:

The student and parent/guardian must attend a staffing regarding reentry.
The staffing must be arranged a minimum of two days prior to the anticipated re-entry date. The staffing must include a minimum of the principal and the school counselor. A representative of the residential facility should be in attendance, along with any social agencies (TASC, Probation, etc.) involved with the individual. If these representatives are absent, then written communication from the facility stating recommendations for further staffing requirements must be presented. A copy of the discharge summary would fulfill the written communiqué requirement. The recommendations should include both educational and treatment needs of the individual.

Transfer Policy

Transfer Students are admitted to Marissa C.U.S.D. #40 on a conditional basis for 30 days. Conditions for permanent admission are as follows:

Complete transcripts must be sent from the previous school.
Documentation of residency must be presented.
A copy of the birth certificate must be presented.
All health records including immunization records must be sent from the previous school or provided by the parent(s).
A student that has been expelled from a previous school will not be considered for admission to Marissa C.U.S.D. #40 until the length of the previous expulsion has expired. After the expiration date of the expulsion, a hearing may be held to consider the admission.
Students that have been suspended from previous schools must complete the suspension time before admission to Marissa C.U.S.D. #40.

Campus Policies

No student should be in the building before 7:30 a.m. unless requested by a teacher or the bus came in early.

After arriving on school grounds, students are not allowed to leave unless permission is granted from the Office.
Students are not permitted outside their class area during class periods unless they have a pass from an authorized staff member.

If you wish to see a teacher during his/her prep period or study hall, you must arrange for this in advance.
Each pass should include the date, time, destination, and teacher issuing the pass.

No student should be in the building after 3:30 p.m. unless requested by a teacher or participating in a supervised activity.
Groups using the building in the evening must use only the section of the building reserved for them and leave all rooms and equipment clean and in proper condition to resume school the next day.
If you need to get a message to your student, please contact the office and they will be notified without disrupting their class.

Students will be called out of a class only in an emergency.
Flowers or other items delivered during the school day will remain in the office until the end of the day.

Telephone Calls

Students may only use the office phone with permission from the office. When a request is made, students may receive permission from the Principal to use personal cell phones in the office only.

TeacherEase

Parents have the opportunity to monitor their child’s academic progress via the Internet. Parents and students can log in to TeacherEase to view a student’s assignments and grades, communicate with teachers, pay fees, and much more. To get access to the Parent Portal, a parent should provide an email address to the school office and you will receive a welcome email from TeacherEase with instructions on how to set up a password and access the information.

Visitors

The school policy is to accept only those visitors who have legitimate business and who have registered in the office at the time of their visit. Parents who are interested in setting up a classroom visit must contact the office of the principal at least 24 hours in advance. Lunch visits will be reserved for parents or immediate family members. All other visitors must have prior approval 1 day in advance granted by the principal.

All visitors, including parents and siblings, are required to enter through the main entrance on the north side of the campus, nearest the US Flag Pole (Front Entrance) of the building and proceed immediately to the main office. Visitors should identify themselves and inform office personnel of their reason for being at school.

Visitors must sign in, identifying their name, the date and time of arrival, and the classroom or location they are visiting. Approved visitors must take a tag identifying themselves as a guest and place the tag to their outer clothing in a clearly visible location. Visitors are required to proceed immediately to their location in a quiet manner. All visitors must return to the main office and sign out before leaving the school.

Any person wishing to confer with a staff member should contact that staff member to make an appointment. Conferences with teachers are held, to the extent possible, outside school hours or during the teacher’s conference/preparation period.

Visitors are expected to abide by all school rules during their time on school property. A visitor who fails to conduct himself or herself in a manner that is appropriate will be asked to leave and may be subject to criminal penalties for trespass and/or disruptive behavior.

No person on school property or at a school event shall perform any of the following acts:

Strike, injure, threaten, harass, or intimidate a staff member, board member, sports official or coach, or any other person.
Behave in an unsportsmanlike manner or use vulgar or obscene language.
Unless specifically permitted by State law, possess a weapon, any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon or looks like a weapon, or any dangerous device.
Damage or threaten to damage another’s property.
Damage or deface school property.
Violate any Illinois law or municipal, local or county ordinance.
Smoke or otherwise use tobacco products including e-cigarettes.
Distribute, consume, use, possess, or be impaired by or under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, cannabis, other lawful product, or illegal drug.
Be present when the person’s alcoholic beverage, cannabis, other lawful product, or illegal drug consumption is detectible, regardless of when and/or where the use occurred.
Use or possess medical cannabis, unless he or she has complied with Illinois' Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Act and district policies.
Impede, delay, disrupt, or otherwise interfere with any school activity or function (including using cellular phones in a disruptive manner).
Enter upon any portion of school premises at any time for purposes other than those that are lawful and authorized by the board.
Operate a motor vehicle: (a) in a risky manner, (b) in excess of 20 miles per hour, or (c) in violation of an authorized district employee’s directive.
Engage in any risky behavior, including roller-blading, roller-skating, or skateboarding.
Violate other district policies or regulations, or a directive from an authorized security officer or district employee.
Engage in any conduct that interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the district or a school function.

Any person who engages in prohibited conduct may be ejected from or denied admission to school property in accordance with State law. The person may also be subject to being denied admission to school athletic or extracurricular events for up to one calendar year.

Cross Reference: PRESS 8:30, Visitors to and Conduct on School Property

Animals on School Property

In order to assure student health and safety, animals are not allowed on school property, except in the case of a service animal accompanying a student or other individual with a documented disability. This rule may be temporarily waived by the building principal in the case of an educational opportunity for students, provided that (a) the animal is appropriately housed, humanely cared for and properly handled, and (b) students will not be exposed to a dangerous animal or an unhealthy environment.

Cross Reference: PRESS 6:100, Using Animals in the Educational Program

PRESS 6:120-AP3, Service Animal

Emergency Dismissal of School

In case of bad weather or other local emergencies, school will be closed. The school has an automated emergency phone system that will notify all students/parents of school closings and/or important school-related items. The automated message is sent to the number(s) listed on the student’s emergency card. School closures will be posted on our school’s website and FB page. Please do not call the school to see if school is in session, as the telephone is needed for emergencies.

Video & Audio Monitoring Systems

A video and/or audio monitoring system may be in use on school busses and a video monitoring system may be in use in public areas of the school building. These systems have been put in place to protect students, staff, visitors and school property. If a discipline problem is captured on audiotape or videotape, these recordings may be used as the basis for imposing student discipline. If criminal actions are recorded, a copy of the tape may be provided to law enforcement personnel.

Cross-Reference: PRESS 4:110, Transportation

Accommodating Individuals with Disabilities

Individuals with disabilities will be provided an opportunity to participate in all school-sponsored services, programs, or activities. Individuals with disabilities should notify the superintendent or building principal if they have a disability that will require special assistance or services and, if so, what services are required. This notification should occur as far in advance as possible of the school-sponsored function, program, or meeting.

Cross Reference: PRESS 8:70, Accommodating Individuals with Disabilities

Students with Food Allergies

State law requires our school district to annually inform parents of students with life-threatening allergies or life-threatening chronic illnesses of the applicable provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and other applicable federal statutes, state statutes, federal regulations and state rules.

If your student has a life-threatening allergy or life-threatening chronic illness, please notify the building principal at (618)295-2393.

Federal law protects students from discrimination due to a disability that substantially limits a major life activity. If your student has a qualifying disability, an individualized Section 504 Plan will be developed and implemented to provide the needed support so that your student can access his or her education as effectively as students without disabilities.

Not all students with life-threatening allergies and life-threatening chronic illnesses may be eligible under Section 504. Our school district also may be able to appropriately meet a student's needs through other means.

Cross Reference:

PRESS 7:285-AP, E, Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan

Care of Students with Diabetes

If your child has diabetes and requires assistance with managing this condition while at school and school functions, a Diabetes Care Plan must be submitted to the building principal. Parents/guardians are responsible for and must:

a. Inform the school in a timely manner of any change which needs to be made to the

Diabetes Care Plan on file with the school for their child.

b. Inform the school in a timely manner of any changes to their emergency contact numbers or

contact numbers of health care providers.

c. Sign the Diabetes Care Plan.

d. Grant consent for and authorize designated School District representatives to communicate

directly with the health care provider whose instructions are included in the Diabetes Care

Plan.

For further information, please contact the building principal.

Cross Reference:

PRESS 6:120-AP4, Care of Students with Diabetes

PRESS 7:270-AP1, Dispensing Medication

Suicide and Depression Awareness and Prevention

Youth suicide impacts the safety of the school environment. It also affects the school community, diminishing the ability of surviving students to learn and the school’s ability to educate. Suicide and depression awareness and prevention are important goals of the school district.

The school district maintains student and parent resources on suicide and depression awareness and prevention. Much of this information, including a copy of the school district’s policy, is posted on the school district website. Information can also be obtained from the school counselor’s office.

Accommodating Breastfeeding Students

Students who choose to breastfeed an infant after returning to school are provided reasonable accommodations. A student who is a nursing mother may take reasonable breaks during the school day to express breast milk or breastfeed her infant. Reasonable accommodations include, but are not limited to:

Access to a private and secure room, other than a bathroom, to express breast milk or breastfeed an infant.
Permission to bring onto school campus a breast pump or other equipment used to express breast milk.
Access to a power source for a breast pump or any other equipment used to express breast milk.
Access to a place to store expressed breast milk safely.
Reasonable breaks to accommodate the student’s need to express breast milk or breastfeed an infant child.
The opportunity to make up work missed due to the student’s use of reasonable accommodations for breastfeeding.

Complaints regarding violations of this procedure should be made to the District’s Complaint Manager or Non-Discrimination Coordinator.

Cross Reference: PRESS 7:10-AP2, Administrative Procedure – Accommodating Breastfeeding Students

Parent Organizations and Booster Clubs

Parent organizations and booster clubs are invaluable resources to the District’s schools. While parent organizations and booster clubs have no administrative authority and cannot determine District policy, the School Board welcomes their suggestions and assistance.

Parent organizations and booster clubs may be recognized by the Board and permitted to use the District’s name, a District school’s name, or a District school’s team name, or any logo attributable to the District provided they first receive the Superintendent or designee’s express written consent. Consent to use one of the above-mentioned names or logos will generally be granted if the organization or club has by-laws containing the following:

The organization’s or club’s name and purpose, such as, to enhance students’ educational experiences, to help meet educational needs of students, to provide extra athletic benefits to students, to assist specific sports teams or academic clubs through financial support, or to enrich extracurricular activities.
The rules and procedures under which it operates.
An agreement to adhere to all Board policies and administrative procedures.
A statement that membership is open and unrestricted, meaning that membership is open to all parents/guardians of students enrolled in the school, District staff, and community members.
A statement that the District is not, and will not be, responsible for the organization’s or club’s business or the conduct of its members, including on any organization or club websites or social media accounts.
An agreement to maintain and protect its own finances.
A recognition that money given to a school cannot be earmarked for any particular expense. Booster clubs may make recommendations, but cash or other valuable consideration must be given to the District to use at its discretion. The Board’s legal obligation to comply with Title IX by providing equal athletic opportunity for members of both genders will supersede an organization or club’s recommendation.

Permission to use one of the above-mentioned names or logos may be rescinded at any time and does not constitute permission to act as the District’s representative. At no time does the District accept responsibility for the actions of any parent organization or booster club regardless of whether it was recognized and/or permitted to use any of the above-mentioned names or logos. The Superintendent shall designate an administrative staff member to serve as the recognized liaison to parent organizations or booster clubs. The liaison will serve as a resource person and provide information about school programs, resources, policies, problems, concerns, and emerging issues. Building staff will be encouraged to participate in the organizations.

Cross Reference: PRESS 8:90, Parent Organizations and Booster Clubs

Student Appearance

A student’s appearance, including dress and hygiene, must not disrupt the educational process or compromise standards of health and safety. The school does not prohibit hairstyles historically associated with race, ethnicity, or hair texture, including, but not limited to, protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists. Students who disrupt the educational process or compromise standards of health and safety must modify their appearance.

Cross Reference: PRESS 7:160, Student Appearance

Awareness and Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse, Grooming Behaviors, and Boundary Violations

Child sexual abuse, grooming behaviors, and boundary violations harm students, their parent/guardian, the District’s environment, its school communities, and the community at large, while diminishing a student’s ability to learn.

Warning Signs of Child Sexual Abuse

Warning signs of child sexual abuse include the following.Physical signs:

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other genital infections
Signs of trauma to the genital area, such as unexplained bleeding, bruising, or blood on the sheets, underwear, or other clothing
Unusual weight gain or loss

Behavioral signs:

Excessive talk about or knowledge of sexual topics
Keeping secrets
Not talking as much as usual
Not wanting to be left alone with certain people or being afraid to be away from primary caregivers
Regressive behaviors or resuming behaviors that the child had grown out of, such as thumb sucking or bedwetting
Overly compliant behavior
Sexual behavior that is inappropriate for the child’s age
Spending an unusual amount of time alone
Trying to avoid removing clothing to change or bathe

Emotional signs:

Change in eating habits or unhealthy eating patterns, like loss of appetite or excessive eating
Signs of depression, such as persistent sadness, lack of energy, changes in sleep or appetite, withdrawing from normal activities, or feeling “down”
Change in mood or personality, such as increased aggression
Decrease in confidence or self-image
Anxiety, excessive worry, or fearfulness
Increase in unexplained health problems such as stomach aches and headaches
Loss or decrease in interest in school, activities, and friends
Nightmares or fear of being alone at night
Self-harming behaviors or expressing thoughts of suicide or suicidal behavior
Failing grades
Drug or alcohol use

Warning Signs of Grooming Behaviors

School and District employees are expected to maintain professional and appropriate relationships with students based upon students’ ages, grade levels, and developmental levels.

Prohibited grooming is defined as (i) any act, including but not limited to, any verbal, nonverbal, written, or electronic communication or physical activity, (ii) by an employee with direct contact with a student, (iii) that is directed toward or with a student to establish a romantic or sexual relationship with the student. Examples of grooming behaviors include, but are not limited to, the following behaviors:

Sexual or romantic invitations to a student
Dating or soliciting a date from a student
Engaging in sexualized or romantic dialog with a student
Making sexually suggestive comments that are directed toward or with a student
Self-disclosure or physical exposure of a sexual, romantic, or erotic nature
Sexual, indecent, romantic, or erotic contact with a student
Failing to respect boundaries or listening when a student says “no”
Engaging in touching that a student or student’s parents/guardians have indicated as unwanted
Trying to be a student’s friend rather than filling an adult role in the student’s life
Failing to maintain age-appropriate relationships with students
Talking with students about personal problems or relationships
Spending time alone with a student outside of their role in the student’s life or making up excuses to be alone with a student
Expressing unusual interest in a student’s sexual development, such as commenting on sexual characteristics or sexualizing normal behaviors
Giving a student gifts without occasion or reason
Spending a lot of time with a student
Restricting a student’s access to other adults

Warning Signs of Boundary Violations

School and District employees breach employee-student boundaries when they misuse their position of power over a student in a way that compromises the student’s health, safety, or general welfare. Examples of boundary violations include:

Favoring a certain student by inviting the student to “hang out” or by granting special privileges
Engaging in peer-like behavior with a student
Discussing personal issues with a student
Meeting with a student off-campus without parent/guardian knowledge and/or permission
Dating, requesting, or participating in a private meeting with a student (in person or virtually) outside of a professional role
Transporting a student in a school or private vehicle without administrative authorization
Giving gifts, money, or treats to an individual student
Sending a student on personal errands
Intervening in a serious student problem instead of referring the student to an appropriately trained professional
Sexual or romantic invitations toward or from a student
Taking and using photos/videos of students for non-educational purposes
Initiating or extending contact with a student beyond the school day in a one-on-one or non-group setting
Inviting a student to an employee’s home
Adding a student on personal social networking sites as contacts when unrelated to a legitimate educational purpose
Privately messaging a student
Maintaining intense eye contact with a student
Making comments about a student’s physical attributes, including excessively flattering comments
Engaging in sexualized or romantic dialog
Making sexually suggestive comments directed toward or with a student
Disclosing confidential information
Self-disclosure of a sexual, romantic, or erotic nature
Full frontal hugs
Invading personal space

If you believe you are a victim of child sexual abuse, grooming behaviors, or boundary violations, or you believe that your child is a victim, you should immediately contact the Building Principal, a school counselor, or another trusted adult employee of the School.

Additional Resources include:

National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673)

National Sexual Abuse Chatline at online.rainn.org

Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Hotline at 1.800.25.ABUSE (2873)

Cross Reference: PRESS 4:165, Awareness and Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Grooming Behaviors

PRESS 5:120-AP2, Employee Conduct Standards

PRESS 5:120-AP2,E, Expectations and Guidelines for Employee-Student Boundaries

Faith’s Law Notifications

Employee Conduct Standards

School districts are required to include in their student handbook the District’s Employee Code of Professional Conduct. These standards, in part, define appropriate conduct between school employees and students. A copy of these standards can be found on the District’s website or requested from the Superintendent’s office.

Cross Reference:

PRESS 5:120, Employee Ethics; Code of Professional Conduct; and Conflict of Interest

PRESS 5:120-AP2, Employee Conduct Standards

Prevention of Anaphylaxis- (New and Required)

While it is not possible for the School or District to completely eliminate the risks of an anaphylactic emergency, the District maintains a comprehensive policy on anaphylaxis prevention, response, and management in order to reduce these risks and provide accommodations and proper treatment for anaphylactic reactions. Parent(s)/guardian(s) and students who desire more information or who want a copy of the District’s policy may contact the Building Principal.

Cross Reference: PRESS 7:285, Anaphylaxis Prevention, Response, and Management Program

PRESS 7:285-AP, Administrative Procedure – Anaphylaxis Prevention, Response, and Management Program

Student/Parent Rights and Responsibilities

Student Responsibilities

PREJUDICE I will accept people for their merits, regardless of race, religion, or nationality.

INTEGRITY I will be honest and fair in dealing with other people. I will set high moral standards for myself and will not let the crowds control my actions.

RESPECT I will hold the advice and opinions of my elders, especially my parents, in high regard. I will be courteous at all times, always respecting the rights of others.

RESPONSIBILITY I will fulfill my responsibilities and obligations to my parents, school, and community. I will be responsible for my actions at all times.

FRIENDLINESS I will maintain a friendly attitude toward everyone and will discourage cliques.

SPORTSMANSHIP I will treat all players and fans of opposing teams as guests, show self-control at all times, and accept the decision of the officials as final. I will be modest in victory and gracious in defeat.

APPEARANCE I will maintain high standards in my grooming and appearance, realizing that the way I dress influences the way I feel and act.

Student Responsibilities and Rights

The Marissa Community Unit #40 Board of Education in support of the aims of public education, believes that the behavior of students attending public schools shall reflect standards of good citizenship demanded of members of a democratic society. Self-discipline (responsibility for one’s actions) is one of the important ultimate goals of education. The Board of Education believes also that, while education is a right of American youth, it is not an absolute right, it is qualified by eligibility requirements. Our courts speak of education as a limited right or privilege. That is, students who fail to perform those duties required of them upon attendance in public school may be excluded from the school.

Citizenship and moral responsibilities:

Students shall respect constituted authority. This shall include conformity to school rules and regulations and those provisions of law that apply to the conduct of students.
Citizenship in a democracy requires respect for the rights of others and demands cooperation with all members of the school community. Student’s conduct shall reflect consideration of the rights and privileges of others.
High personal standards of courtesy, decency, morality, clean language, honesty, and wholesome relationships with others shall be maintained. Respect for real and personal property, pride in one’s work, and achievement within one’s ability shall be expected of all students.
Every student who gives evidence of a sincere desire to remain in school, to be diligent in studies, and to profit by the educational experiences provided will be given every opportunity to do so and will be assisted in every way possible to achieve scholastic success to the limit of individual ability.

Parent Responsibilities

The Marissa Community School District No. 40 sincerely believes that a child's success in school is directly related to effective communication between home and school, parental support of learning activities, respect for individual rights, and personal responsibility.

COMMUNICATION: This handbook is one of the District's primary means of communicating. Parents are urged to read this book carefully and to discuss it with their children.
PARENTAL SUPPORT: Parents are encouraged to support their children's efforts in school by emphasizing the importance of education, reading with their children, and making sure that children complete assignments and attend school regularly.
INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS: We live in a country where each person has the right to be treated with justice. It is therefore the responsibility of each student to treat others justly, with respect and dignity. District No. 40 will not tolerate behavior that violates these human relations standards.
PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY: Children are responsible for obeying the laws of society as well as all District regulations. The District has a close working relationship with local law enforcement agencies and will contact them if violent or other criminal activity takes place. Parents should also be aware that they themselves are legally responsible and financially liable for their children's actions.

Together parents and the schools can provide a safe, happy, and orderly atmosphere for all children.

Chapter 2: Attendance, Promotion and Graduation

Attendance

MJSHS is committed to the idea that every student should attend each class, every day, and Illinois law requires compulsory school attendance.

Illinois law requires that whoever has custody or control of any child between six (by September 1 st) and seventeen years of age shall assure that the child attends school in the district in which he or she resides, during the entire time school is in session (unless the child has already graduated from high school). Illinois law also requires that whoever has custody or control of a child who is enrolled in the school, regardless of the child’s age, shall assure that the child attends school during the entire time school is in session.

Student Absences

There are two types of absences: excused and unexcused.

Excused absences include:

illness (including mental or behavioral health of the student),
observance of a religious holiday or event,
death in the immediate family,
family emergency,
Serious illness of a family member
situations beyond the control of the student,
circumstances that cause reasonable concern to the parent/guardian for the student’s mental, emotional, or physical health or safety,
attending a military honors funeral, or
other reason as approved by the building principal.
Additionally, a student will be excused for up to 5 days in cases where the student’s parent/guardian is an active duty member of the uniformed services and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from deployment to a combat zone or combat-support postings.

Pre-arranged excused absences must be approved by the building principal. The school may require documentation explaining the reason for the student’s absence.

Students must complete a Pre-Arranged Absence Form through the Principal's Office at least three (3) days in advance of the anticipated, pre-arranged absence.

A student and the student’s parent/guardian are responsible for obtaining assignments from the student’s teachers prior to any excused absences and for ensuring that such assignments are completed by the student prior to his or her return to school.

For excused absences, it is the responsibility of the student to contact teachers when returning to school in order to arrange the makeup of work that was missed.

All other absences are considered unexcused. Unexcused absences are those which the school finds impossible to approve even though parents may give consent and approval.

Unexcused absences include, but are not limited to:

Car trouble
Extending a weekend or holiday
Failure to be called in by parent/guardian
Failure to bring a required note upon returning to school pursuant to the associated policy
Hunting or Fishing
Missing the bus
Oversleeping
Shopping
Skipping school
Working, including babysitting

When a student misses any part of the school day the student must obtain an admit slip from the office before he/she will be allowed to attend class.

After 10 days of absences, all admit slips will require a doctor’s note or written verification from any other agency that can verify the reason for the absence. Deviations from this procedure are approved only by the principal. Extended medical absences will be evaluated on an individual basis.

School Notification Procedure:

When a student is absent from school his/her parents are requested to call the Office (618) 295-2393 by 9:00 a.m. on the morning of the absence to inform the school of the reason for the absence.
When the use of a phone is not possible, a note from the parent on the morning following the absence will be accepted.
Failure to provide the school with notification of an absence, on the morning following the absence, will result in an unexcused absence and the absence will be considered truancy.

In order for a student to participate or attend a scheduled extra-curricular practice or activity on a school afternoon or night, he/she must arrive at school no later than 8:50 am in order to be considered present. The only exceptions will be at the discretion of the principal.

Student Sign-in/Sign Out Procedure

A sign-in/sign-out register is maintained in the office. Students arriving after 8:00 a.m. must sign in. Students leaving before the dismissal bell must sign out. If a student returns to school after signing out, they must sign in.

Release Time for Religious Instruction/Observation

A student will be released from school, as an excused absence, to observe a religious holiday or for religious instruction. The student’s parent/guardian must give written notice to the building principal at least 5 calendar days before the student’s anticipated absence(s).

Students excused for religious reasons will be given an opportunity to make up all missed work, including homework and tests, for equivalent academic credit.

Tardies

Tardiness is an unauthorized and/or unexcused late arrival to school or class. Students are required to be at school on time, and they are required to be in class at their assigned seat and prepared to participate in class activities when the bell rings.

A tardy will be issued by office staff for those students who arrive late for school.
given each time a student is not in class on time without a pass.
Students who are not in the class or not prepared to participate will be issued a tardy. Tardiness is considered to be a very serious offense due to the class disruption it causes. Disciplinary actions for tardiness may include but are not limited to, detention, in-school, or out-out-school suspensions.
For every three tardies per quarter, a student will be issued an After School Study.

Truancy

Truancy is the act of unauthorized absence from classes or school for any period of time. Students in grades 7 - 12 who are classified as a chronic truant using the Illinois School Code may be denied school sponsored events (Homecoming, Prom, Graduation/Promotion). Students considered truant will be turned over to the ROE for potential disciplinary action.

Chronic truancy is defined as one who is absent from school for 5% or more of the previous 180 regular attendance days.

The district will make available all possible support services to students who are determined to be chronic truants.
The district will also hold a truancy hearing to determine if the student and their parents should be referred to the regional office for further actions.

Illness at School

Students who become ill at school must report to the Office.

Students may not leave the building because of illness without authorization from the school nurse.

If it is necessary to go home, the parents will be called by the Office or School Nurse and the student should be signed out.
Students are NOT allowed to use their personal cell phones to call or text parents during the school day due to illness. If they do, they may be assigned a detention for insubordination.

Permission to Leave School

After arriving at school, a student is not permitted to leave without permission. Students are considered to be at school when they step onto a school bus or school property.

Leaving school without authorization, and/or without signing out in the office will result in disciplinary action being taken with the student. Students should follow the following procedure if they must leave school.

Students should provide a written note, from a parent, stating the reason, date, and time their student should be allowed to leave school. Students should bring this note to the office before school starts. Parents may also call the office to notify the school of their child’s need to leave school.
Students will be called to the office when it is time for them to leave and to sign out.
All students must sign-out in the Office after permission has been granted to leave.

Perfect Attendance Passes

Perfect attendance for a full year will entitle the student to a perfect attendance pass which will allow him/her free admission to any sporting event, with the exception (excluding prom, homecoming and tournaments) of IHSA tournaments, held at Marissa Junior/Senior High School during the following school year.

College Day

A college day will be considered an excused absence when the appropriate paperwork is submitted and approved by the Principal three days prior to the day of absence.

Seniors will be allowed 2 college visit days.
Juniors will be allowed 1 college visit day.

Job Shadow Day

Job shadow days are designed for students to have opportunities to job shadow or interview for a job during regular business hours.

A job shadow day will be considered an excused absence when the appropriate paperwork is submitted and approved by the Principal three days prior to the day of absence.

Students are allowed 1 Job Shadow day per year

This number may changed if the experience is due to a class currently enrolled in and arranged by a member of the faculty.

Hospital/Home Instruction

A student who is absent from school, or whose physician, physician assistant or licensed advance practice registered nurse anticipates his or her absence from school, because of a medical condition may be eligible for instruction in the student’s home or hospital.

Appropriate educational services from qualified staff will begin no later than five school days after receiving a written statement from a physician, physician assistant, or licensed advanced practice registered nurse. Instructional or related services for a student receiving special education services will be determined by the student’s individualized education program.

A student who is unable to attend school because of pregnancy will be provided home instruction, correspondence courses, or other courses of instruction before (1) the birth of the child when the student’s physician, physician assistant, or licensed advanced practice nurse indicates, in writing, that she is medically unable to attend regular classroom instruction, and (2) for up to 3 months after the child’s birth or a miscarriage with the physician’s request.

For information on home or hospital instruction, contact the building principal.

Cross Reference: PRESS 6:150, Home and Hospital Instruction

Make-up Work After an Absence

Students who have an absence have the opportunity to make up work. It is the responsibility of the student to contact the teacher(s) involved to determine make-up assignments and establish a time for daily and test make-up.

For excused absences:

Students are given one day for each absence (up to three days) to make up work.
For absences longer than three days, the teacher(s) may develop a contract for make-up work with due dates.
Students going on field trips are responsible for arranging makeup work prior to being absent. All work must be turned in the day you return to school.

For unexcused absences:

Students must reach out to their teachers for all missing assignments.
Students may not receive full credit for their completed assignments.

For absences due to disciplinary reasons:

Students not in the classroom due to In School Supervision (ISS) should work on their assignments while serving the ISS and turn in their assignments on the date of their return to the classroom unless other arrangements have been made by their teachers.
In the event a student earns an out of school suspension, the student should email all teachers regarding missed work for the day. Parents may request information regarding missed work and tests which will be forwarded to the office for pick-up between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. at the conclusion of each day of the student’s suspension.

It is the student’s responsibility to complete the assignments and study for any tests. Assignments must be submitted and tests must be taken on the first day of student attendance after the suspension.
Students serving out-of-school suspensions are not allowed to participate in extracurricular events, nor are they allowed to attend school functions on the days the suspension is being served. Further information regarding discipline may be found in the section titled STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT.

Promotion and Grade Reports

Student – Classification

High School

High school students are classified based on the number of credits earned.
The Board of Education’s policy of student classification is as follows:

Freshman (9th grade): 0.0—4.75 credits

Sophomore (10th grade): 5.0—9.75 credits

Junior (11th grade): 10.0—14.75 credits

Senior (12th grade): 15.0 + credits

Junior High School

Junior high students will receive one unit of credit per quarter for each subject that is completed successfully.
Of the 28 possible credits, a student must earn a minimum of 20 credits in order to be promoted to the next grade level.
Students may NOT fail more than one academic core subject and must receive a passing grade in two quarterly terms of each of the remaining core classes for the school year. Four credits are available through the course of the school year in each of the academic areas. Core academics are reading, math, science, social studies, and language arts. *Final placement for the upcoming school year will be determined by the administration.

Grading Scale

Grades are an appraisal of student achievement based on the objectives of the course in which he or she is enrolled. The following grading scale will be used to evaluate student coursework:

MARISSA JR/SR HIGH SCHOOL: GRADE SCALE (Effective 2021-22 school year)

Letter Grade	Range	Grade Point Unweighted
A+	98-100	4.00
A	93 – 97	4.00
A -	90 – 92	3.67
B+	87 – 89	3.33
B	83 – 86	3.00
B -	80 – 82	2.67
C+	77 – 79	2.33
C	73 – 76	2.00
C -	70 – 72	1.67
D+	67-69	1.33
D	63 – 66	1.00
D -	60-62	0.67
F	59 and below	0.00

Grade Calculation

MHS is on a semester basis so the semester grade is the all-important grade. It is the grade that is used in calculating each student’s grade point average (GPA) and is the one that is permanently recorded on transcripts.

The semester grade is calculated as follows:

Quarter Gr (40%) + Quarter Gr (40%)

Quarter Gr (50%) + Quarter Gr (50%)

+ Semester Exam (20%)

+ Semester Exam (Exempt)

= Semester Grade

Weighted GPA Calculation

An unweighted GPA will be calculated for all classes.
Additional points will be added to the unweighted GPA as follows:

Weighted credits earned/Max possible weighted credits.

The sum of the unweighted GPA and additional points becomes the student’s overall Weighted GPA.

Weighted Classes

The following classes are available for weighted grading scale starting the 2021-22 school year:

Honors Algebra 1, Honors Geometry, Honors Algebra 2, Pre-calculus and Trigonometry, Calculus

Semester Exams

Semester examinations are given during the last week of the semester; the dates and times are set by the administration. Students not able to take their exams on the scheduled date will need principal approval beforehand and will need to make arrangements to take their exam on an alternate date after regular scheduled exam days.

Semester Exemption Policy

High school students who meet the following attendance requirements along with parent permission will not have to take semester exams.
The student’s semester grade will be based on the student’s quarterly grades prior to the exam being given.

Teachers requiring students to take their exam, regardless of quarterly average and attendance, will provide this information at the beginning of the semester.
Any absences, including mental health days, except for intra-curricular field trips and approved college visitations will apply to the attendance semester exam incentives.
To be eligible for exemptions students must meet the following:

Quarterly Avg. # of Days Absent Permission Exam

A Up to 3 excused required optional

B Up to 2 excused required optional

C Up to 1 excused required optional

Students must take exams when:

Students have any unexcused absences.
Students earn two or more tardies per class.
Student receives an out-of-school suspension.
Students receive two or more in-school suspensions.

Grade Reports

Grade reports are issued as soon as possible following the end of each quarter. The second-semester grade report will include the student’s cumulative average and credits earned for the year. Please see the school calendar at the beginning of the handbook for approximate dates for grades to be issued.

Homework

Home study is an essential part of each pupil’s educational program. A student is expected to spend time in addition to the scheduled class instruction to achieve satisfactory work. Some assignments are long-range in nature and require planned study time for their completion. Planned study eliminates the necessity of spending too much time completing an assignment the day before it is due.

Physical Education/Exemption Policy

Students must participate in physical education unless exempted as per Board of Education policy.

Any student who presents a doctor’s statement (with reason) excusing him or her from physical education may be exempted from physical education class for the specific time indicated on the written statement.

Students may request exemption from physical education on constitutional grounds due to religious reasons. A statement listing specific reasons for exemption from the student’s reverend, priest, or rabbi is required.

Illinois School Code Section 27-6 and Marissa School Board Policy 6:320 provide that individual students may be excused from daily physical education (to enroll in a class) for the following reasons:

Grades 9-12

Ongoing participation in a marching band program for credit
Enrollment in a ROTC program

Grades 11-12

Ongoing participation in interscholastic, competitive sports (excused from a semester of athletic season)
To complete a specific academic class not included in existing state or local graduation standards in order to be granted admission to a specific institution of higher learning (would not include honor or college prep courses)
Students who lack sufficient course credit or lack one or more specific courses in order to meet graduation requirements provided that failure to take such courses would result in the students being unable to graduate

To be exempted from physical education for any of the above-stated reasons, the student must enroll in an accredited course in lieu of the physical education class. A physical education exemption form is available in the School Counselor’s office and must be submitted during the regular scheduling process.

Running Start Program

Running Start is a dual credit program for qualified high school students to attend SWIC as a full-time student in their junior and senior years of high school.

The Running Start Program meets the requirements for both a high school diploma from Marissa High School and an Associate of Arts and/or Associate of Science Degree from Southwestern Illinois College. If you qualify for the program, you will be able to earn both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree simultaneously.

The program is designed for high school sophomores who are on-track to graduate on-time, have a 3.0 or better GPA, have completed one year of high school algebra and one year of high school geometry, take the Accuplacer assessment and score into college-level English and math courses, and have approval from the high school principal or his/her designee.

Due to the nature of the program, each student will pay a set fee per year to participate. This cost is for the price of tuition at SWIC. Along with this the student will be responsible for purchasing or renting his or her own textbooks. The participation fee will be due to Marissa High School paid in full by August 1st. (Fee set for SWIC tuition)

High school students who participate in the Running Start Program will be able to choose to take their classes at the Belleville, Red Bud, or Granite City Campuses. However, these students will not be able to take classes at Marissa High school and will not be allowed on the high school campus until school is dismissed.

Running Start participants may only participate in activities and clubs that take place outside of the school day. These students for example will not be allowed to participate in such items as FFA, Band, homecoming/prom court, the election of student officers, and etc. Running start students will be allowed to participate in such activities as musicals, attend dances, belong to an organization that meets outside of the school day.

Running Start students will be able to participate in athletics. Because Running Start students are high school students, they will need to maintain athletic eligibility while in the program. However, students will not be dismissed from SWIC classes for athletic events and all college attendance policies will apply. Coaches and sponsors will need to meet with the principal if athletic events will cause students to arrive at MJSHS prior to dismissal.

Running Start students will be responsible for lunch and transportation throughout the course of the program. Free parking stickers are required; there is no charge to park on campus. Students will receive a St. Clair County bus and Metro-Link pass when they enroll at SWIC.

Running Start students will follow the same high school graduation recognition guidelines as all other students at Marissa High School. However, students participating in the Running Start program will not be eligible for valedictorian and salutatorian honors. Running Start students will be required to sign a release allowing the college to release their grades to the high school and to their parents. These students will be required to return to the high school during the Illinois State Testing and other events deemed necessary by the school administration.

While attending SWIC, The Student Rights and Conduct Code and all college rules and regulations apply to Running Start students. Students removed from the Running Start program directed to return to the Marissa High School will be subject to any consequences found in the Marissa Jr/Sr High School Student-Parent Handbook.

Dual Credit

A student who successfully completes a dual credit course may receive credit at both the college and high school level. A student must be 16 or turn 16 while enrolled in the class in order to receive dual credit.

Calculus is currently offered as a dual credit course through Saint Louis University (SLU). Course fees must be paid by the parent at $75 a credit hour. Price is subject to change. Good attendance is required and expected. If a student must miss class for some unavoidable reason, he/she is still responsible for any work that is due or assigned on a day they are absent. Excessive unexcused absences may result in being dropped from the course without refund. Extended illnesses and emergencies will be considered on a case by case basis. This policy is supported by SLU and the Marissa Board of Education.
English 101/102 and Agricultural Business are currently offered as a dual credit course through Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC). There are no course fees required to SWIC for this course. Students must pay the highschool fee. Good attendance is required and expected. If a student must miss class for some unavoidable reason, he/she is still responsible for any work that is due or assigned on a day they are absent. Excessive unexcused absences may result in being dropped from the course. Extended illnesses and emergencies will be considered on a case by case basis. This policy is supported by SWIC and the Marissa Board of Education.

Dual Enrollment

A high school student may take college-level classes only with the prior consent of the principal. Approval shall be granted for only one semester at a time. Enrollment shall be limited to seniors who have a 3.0 cumulative grade point average or a justifiable need for dual enrollment. An approved schedule of college classes shall be placed in the student’s personal file. Grade cards from college must be presented to the high school principal before enrollment for a subsequent semester is approved.

Graduation Requirements

Required to complete 22 credits of coursework.

English 4.0 credits Health 0.5 credits

Math 3.0 credits Voc/Fine/Practical Arts 1.5 credits

Science 2.0 credits Physical Education 1.5 credits (6 sem.)

Social Science 2.0 credits Electives 6.5 credits

American Government 0.5 credit

Consumer Education 0.5 credit

State Mandated Graduation Requirements

Four years of language
Two years of writing intensive courses, one of which must be English and the other of which may be English or any other when applicable, writing-intensive courses may be counted towards the fulfillment of other graduation requirements.
Three years of mathematics, one of which must be Algebra I and one of which must include geometry content and one of which may be an Advanced Placement computer science course.
Two years of science
Two years of social studies, of which at least one year must be history of the United States or a combination of history of the United States and American within the two years of social studies requirement, one semester of civics is required.
One year chosen from (A) music, (B) art, (C) foreign language, which shall be deemed to include American Sign Language, or (D) vocational
One semester of health
Three years of Physical education
A course covering American patriotism and the principles of representative government, as enunciated in the American Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States of America and the Constitution of the State of Illinois, and the proper use and display of the American
Nine weeks of consumer science

The above requirements do not apply to students with disabilities whose course of study is determined by an Individualized Education Program or students who are exempted from participation in certain courses in accordance with State law.

To graduate from high school, unless otherwise exempted, each student is responsible for:

Completing all State mandated graduation requirements listed above.
Completing all District graduation requirements that are in addition to State graduation.
Passing an examination on patriotism, principles of representative government, and proper use of the flag
Participating in the State’s final accountability assessment.
Filing the FASFA form with the U.S. Department of Education or file a waiver with the school district.

Non-graduating seniors will not be permitted to participate in the class trip, baccalaureate ceremony, or graduation exercise.

Graduation- Early

It is advisable for the majority of students to complete a normal four-year high school sequence. Certain students may be able to complete graduation requirements in less than four years and profit from an early graduation. Approval by the Board of Education may be granted to graduate early if students can show good cause for such a request. The following procedures have been established to request early graduation.

All requests will be considered on an individual basis. Decisions will be made on what is best for the student and the school district.
Written requests will be made to the principal no later than the first Monday in October.
All requests for early graduation will be considered at the October board meeting.
Students requesting early graduation are asked to attend the October board meeting with their parent(s) to answer questions and discuss the reasons for the request.
Requests made after the October deadline will be denied.
A student’s total record will be taken into consideration. This includes grades, attendance, disciplinary problems, etc.
Graduation only for the purpose of seeking employment will not be considered unless extenuating circumstances exist.
Students graduating early will be given the opportunity to walk in the May graduation ceremony.
Students graduating early will not qualify for Valedictorian or Salutatorian status.

Graduation - Valedictorian / Salutatorian

Candidates for valedictorian and salutatorian must have carried a minimum of four academic credits per year. Students graduating early will not qualify for Valedictorian or Salutatorian status. Selection is based on cumulative grade point average after 8 semesters and consideration of courses taken. Students enrolled in pass/fail courses will not qualify for valedictorian and salutatorian status.

Honor Roll

The honor roll recognizes academic excellence. To be eligible for the honor roll, a student must obtain at least a 3.00 GPA for the quarter with no D’s or F’s. There are three levels of honor roll:

Perfect GPA 4.00 GPA

High Honors (includes A-) 3.50—3.99 GPA

Honors 3.00—3.49 GPA

Students achieving the end of the year Honor Roll for the first three quarters will be recognized at the spring awards for their academic achievement.

Students will not eligible for honor roll when:

Student is enrolled in “pass/fail” courses.
Student receives a D, F or Incomplete (I) grade in any class.

College Prep Scheduling

Students who are considering college should plan their high school courses early. Assistance with college registration is available in the School Counselor’s office. The Illinois Board of Higher Education adopted the following requirements for admission to public universities, wishing to seek admission to a bachelor’s program:

4 years of English, emphasis in written communications, oral communications, and literature
3 years of social studies, emphasis in history and government
3 years of mathematics, including introductory through advanced algebra, geometry, trigonometry or fundamentals of computer programming
3 years of lab science
2 years of electives in music, art, or foreign languages

Information on applying for scholarships and other types of financial assistance for post-high school education is available in the School Counselor’s office.

Scheduling

A student must carry a minimum of four academic subjects per year. Students planning to attend college, refer to post-high school planning. Students will not be allowed multiple study halls or physical education classes.

Schedule Changes

Schedule changes will be considered during the first week of the semester if:

A written request from a parent/guardian has been submitted.
The change is possible, considering the student’s existing schedule, and the change will not overload a particular class.
The change results in a reasonable program of studies in the established curriculum.
The change is approved by the parent/guardian, school counselor, and principal.

No schedule changes will be made after the first full week of school. After the first two weeks, a course dropped will be recorded as a failure, unless the change is based on teacher recommendation.

Driver Education

Students must pass four academic classes in each of their last two semesters to qualify for driver education instruction.

CCSI – Career Center of Southern Illinois

Students may attend the Career Center of Southern Illinois to take various courses offered during their junior and/or senior years. Students attending the all-day occupational education program at the Career Center of Southern Illinois will be subject to the rules and consequences found in the MJSHS handbook. Students who are removed from the Beck center for disciplinary issues may face additional consequences from the MJSHS and Board of Education.

CCSI – Enrollment/Attendance Policy

As a prerequisite for our students to attend Vocational Center, they must meet the following criteria:

The student must be a Southwestern Illinois Partnership for College and Career Success (SIPCCS) student with a designated educational plan that would include no more than two years of college following high school and have a signed and dated form on file corresponding to the desired course.
Ten high school credits must be earned prior to enrollment at Beck Center.
Enrollment in a vocational area at Beck will take place only after completion of corresponding courses offered at Marissa High School.
Enrollment in certain courses, when only one year is offered at Beck, may require senior status.
The applying student may have no serious discipline concerns (administrative discretion).
The student should not have been absent more than 10 school days without medical verification for the previous school year.
After enrollment at the Beck Center, students who miss ten days at Beck without medical verification will be evaluated in order to continue the program and will forfeit the potential credit, if dropped.
Students must still attend CCSI on Marissa half days and early dismissal days. Skipping CCSI on purpose will result in the same discipline as skipping class (In-School Suspension).
Disciplinary issues at CCSI will result in discipline from the high school as well.

Withdrawal From School

Parents/guardians of a student withdrawing from Marissa Jr. - Sr. High School are required to accompany the student to the office to authorize the withdrawal.

Chapter 3: Student and Fees Meal Costs

Fees, Fines, and Charges

Fees and charges are established yearly by the MCUSD #40 Board of Education for textbook rentals, lab fees, and to fund certain school activities; an official list of fees and charges is published each year prior to registration in August. Fee waivers may be available for students whose family is unable to pay established fees and charges. Students who are unable to pay established fees or charges will not be denied educational services or academic credit. A fee waiver does not exempt a student from charges for lost and damaged books, locks, materials, supplies, and/or equipment.

Applications for fee waivers may be obtained from the school office or on the district website and may be submitted by a parent or guardian of a student who has been assessed a fee. As student is eligible for a fee waiver if at least one of the following prerequisites is met:

The student currently lives in a household that meets the same income guidelines, with the same limits based on household size, that are used for the federal free meals programs;
The student’s parent is a veteran or active-duty military personnel with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty line.
The student is homeless, as defined by the Mc-Kinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.

The school district will notify the parent/guardian promptly as to whether the fee waiver request has been granted or denied. Questions regarding the fee waiver application process or an appeal of the District’s decision to deny a fee waiver should be addressed to the Building Principal.

Pursuant to the Hunger-Free Students’ Bill of Rights Act, the school is required to provide a federally reimbursable meal or snack to a student who requests one, regardless of whether the student has the ability to pay for the meal or snack or owes money for earlier meals or snacks. Students may not be provided with an alternative meal or snack and the school is prohibited from publicly identifying or stigmatizing a student who cannot pay for or owes money for a meal or snack.

Athletic Participation Fee

The Board of Education has adopted an athletic participation fee for each student in each sport. The fee is $30.00 for junior high students and $35.00 for high school students. It is non-refundable and non-transferable. The fee will be assessed after the final roster cuts have been made. No student will be allowed to participate in any contests until his/her fee has been paid.

School Lunch Program

Balanced meals are offered daily at breakfast and lunch breaks in the cafeteria.

Breakfast and lunch purchases will be with I.D. cards only - No cash.
If a student does not have their I.D. and meal ticket with them during a meal, they will be required to wait until the end of the line to purchase food.

Students will not loan their I.D. cards or purchase items for others.

Students are expected to maintain courteous behavior during meals and to assist in keeping the cafeteria clean and well-kept for all to enjoy.
Students are expected to add money to their meal accounts from 7:35 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. in the cafeteria.

It is the student’s responsibility to make sure there are adequate funds in his/her account to purchase items for breakfast or lunch.
Ala carte items are extra items to be purchased; they are not included with the meal.
If a student does not have enough money in their account to purchase both ala carte items and a meal, the student will be sold the meal only.

Students are expected to eat their breakfast and lunch in the cafeteria regardless of whether it was purchased at school or brought from home.

If a student or parent has any questions about cafeteria concerns, these concerns should be brought to the attention of the cafeteria director.

Any activity that creates a disturbance in the cafeteria, such as throwing food, leaving trays, cutting line, or inappropriate table manners may result in disciplinary action.

Chapter 4: Transportation and Parking

Bus Transportation

The district provides bus transportation to and from school for all students living 1.5 miles or more from the school. A list of bus stops will be published at the beginning of the school year before student registration. Parents must, at the beginning of the school year, select one bus stop at which a student is to be picked up, and one stop at which a student is to be dropped off. Students are not permitted to ride a bus other than the bus to which they are assigned. Exceptions must be approved in advance by the building principal.

While students are on the bus, they are under the supervision of the bus driver. In most cases, bus discipline problems can be handled by the bus driver. In the case of a written disciplinary referral, student bus problems will be investigated and handled by the building principal.

Students are expected to follow all school rules while on the bus. Students may be suspended from riding the school bus for up to 10 consecutive school days for violating school rules or for engaging in other gross disobedience or misconduct. The school board may suspend the student from riding the school bus for a period in excess of 10 days for safety reasons. The district’s regular suspension procedures shall be used to suspend a student’s privilege to ride a school bus.

A student who is suspended from riding the school bus and who does not have alternative transportation to school shall be allowed the opportunity to make up all missed work for equivalent academic credit. It is the responsibility of the student’s parent or guardian to notify the school that the student does not have alternative transportation to school.

In the interest of the student’s safety and in compliance with State law, students are also expected to observe the following:

Be aware of moving traffic and pay attention to your surroundings.
Dress properly for the weather. Make sure all drawstrings, ties, straps, etc. on all clothing, backpacks and other items, are shortened or removed to lessen the likelihood of them getting caught in bus doors, railings or aisles.
Arrive on time at the bus stop, and stay away from the street while waiting for the bus.
Stay away from the bus until it stops completely and the driver signals you to board. Enter a single file without pushing. Always use the handrail.
Take a seat right away and remain seated facing forward. Keep your hands, arms, and head inside the bus.
Talk quietly on the bus. No shouting or creating loud noises that may distract the driver. Tablets, iPods®, iPads®, smart phones, and other electronic devices must be silenced on the bus unless a student uses headphones.
Help keep the bus neat and clean. Keep belongings out of the aisle and away from emergency exits. Eating and drinking are not allowed on the bus.
Always listen to the driver’s instructions. Be courteous to the driver and other students. Sit with your hands to yourself and avoid making noises that would distract the driver or bother other passengers. Remain seated, keeping your hands, arms, and head inside the bus at all times.
Wait until the bus pulls to a complete stop before standing up. Use the handrail when exiting the bus.
Stay out of the danger zone next to the bus where the driver may have difficulty seeing you. Take five giant steps away from the bus and out of the danger zone, until you can see the driver and the driver sees you. Never crawl under a bus.
If you must cross the street after you get off the bus, wait for the driver’s signal and then cross in front of the bus. Cross the street only after checking both ways for traffic.
Never run back to the bus, even if you dropped or forgot something

Video and audio cameras may be active on busses to record student conduct and may be used for the purposes of investigation into misconduct or accidents on the bus.

For questions regarding school transportation issues, contact MCUSD #40 Superintendent.

Cross-references: PRESS 4:110, Transportation

PRESS 4:110-AP3, School Bus Safety Rules

PRESS 7:220, Bus Conduct

PRESS 7:220-AP, Electronic Recordings on School Buses

Transportation For School Activities

The school district provides transportation for all participants who are representing the school district at interscholastic events and other school-sanctioned trips. The following rules apply:

Students who represent the school in any activity are required to use the transportation provided by the school to and from the activity with the following exceptions:

Parents may request that their son/daughter ride home with them by a note to the coach, sponsor, or administrator in charge.
Parents may also request that their son/daughter ride home with a close relative by a written note to the coach, sponsor, or administrator in charge. Present this note prior to departure time.
In certain instances, where it may be impossible for the student to use school transportation, special arrangements must be made in advance.

Participants who violate this policy will have a conference with their coach and the administration on an individual basis.

Bus Conduct

The riding of the school bus is a privilege granted to District #40 students by the Board of Education. Any serious violations or multiple minor violations of bus rules will result in the removal of individual riding privileges for a period of time determined by the administration.

Parking

Students driving to school must park in the student parking on the west side of the Jr./Sr. High School building.

Students may drive vehicles to school under conditions set by the Board of Education.

All students that drive to school must have a vehicle registration form filled out in the office.
Students will be required to purchase a parking pass and will be assigned a parking spot.

Parking passes can be purchased during registration and in the office.

Parking should be in designated rows parallel with the building.
All vehicles will be parked in areas designated as student parking areas.

Students are not permitted to park or be in the teacher parking lot at any time.

Students are not to linger or congregate in the student parking lot before school, after school, or at any student activity for the health, safety and welfare of the student.
Sitting in vehicles or careless driving on school property is not permitted and is punishable by suspension, revoking of vehicle privileges, police notification, etc.
Any use of the vehicle during the school day must be through the consent of the principal.
Students parking on campus understand that their vehicle can be searched by the administration and/or local authorities for any reason.
Parking on school grounds is a privilege that can be taken away at any time for any violation of school rules.
Students not purchasing a parking pass will be subject to school consequences including but not limited to towing and the charges associated with being towed from the school.

Chapter 5: Health and Safety

School Operations During a Pandemic or Health Emergency

This handbook procedure is meant to apply generally to any pandemic or other health emergency and should be supplemented with other relevant and timely information.

A pandemic is a global outbreak of disease. Pandemics happen when a new virus emerges to infect individuals and, because there is little to no pre-existing immunity against the new virus, it spreads sustainably. Your child’s school and district play an essential role, along with the local health department and emergency management agencies, in protecting the public’s health and safety during a pandemic or other health emergency.

During a pandemic or other health emergency, you will be notified in a timely manner of all changes to the school environment and schedule that impact your child. Please be assured that even if school is not physically in session, it is the goal of the school and district to provide your child with the best educational opportunities possible.

Additionally, please note the following:

All decisions regarding changes to the school environment and schedule, including a possible interruption of in-person learning, will be made by the superintendent in consultation with and, if necessary, at the direction of the Governor, Illinois Department of Public Health, local health department, emergency management agencies, and/or Regional Office of Education.
Available learning opportunities may include remote and/or blended learning. Blended learning may require your child to attend school on a modified schedule.
Students will be expected to participate in blended and remote instruction as required by the school and district. Parents are responsible for assuring the participation of their child. Students who do not participate in blended or remote learning will be considered truant.
All school disciplinary rules remain in effect during the interruption of in-person learning. Students are subject to discipline for disrupting the remote learning environment to the same extent that discipline would be imposed for disruption of the traditional classroom.
Students and parents will be required to observe all public health and safety measures implemented by the school and district in conjunction with state and local requirements.
During a pandemic or other health emergency, the school and district will ensure that educational opportunities are available to all students.
School personnel will work closely with students with disabilities and other vulnerable student populations to minimize the impact of any educational disruption.
Students who have a compromised immune system, live with an individual with a compromised immune system, or have a medical condition that may impact their ability to attend school during a pandemic or other public health emergency should contact school officials.
During a pandemic or other health emergency, teachers and school staff will receive additional training on health and safety measures.
In accordance with school district or state mandates, the school may need to conduct a daily health assessment of your child. Parents and students will be notified of the exact assessment procedures if this becomes necessary.
Parents should not send their child to school if their child exhibits any symptoms consistent with the pandemic or other health emergency.
Please do not hesitate to contact school or district officials if you have any concerns regarding your child’s education, health or safety.

Cross Reference: PRESS 4:180, Pandemic Preparedness; Management; and Recovery

Immunization, Health, Eye and Dental Examination

Students entering Marissa Community School District for the first time are required to provide the following health information:

Proof of physical examination performed by a licensed medical doctor
Medical history completed by a parent or guardian
Proof of inoculation against diphtheria, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, and rubella
Proof of a dental examination performed by a licensed dentist
Emergency information completed by a parent or guardian

All students are required to provide this information prior to attending class. Students who transfer to MJSHS from another school must provide the above listed information within thirty (30) calendar days of enrollment in class. Students with an out-of-state medical examination and/or dental examination may be considered in compliance provided the examination(s) meets the requirements in Illinois, including the immunization requirements and the date of the examination(s) is within the guidelines. Students who fail to comply with these requirements will be excluded from attendance of MJSHS. Unexcused absences will be recorded in these instances. Parents who object to immunizations because of religious beliefs are expected to discuss the situation with the Principal.

Physical Examinations and Immunizations

Illinois School Code Section 27-8 requires a physical and dental examination of all transfer students who were not required to have one for their school. All boys and girls participating in athletics must have an annual examination before beginning practice. In addition to the physical examinations, every child prior to or upon entering kindergarten or first grade, sixth and ninth grades, and every pupil entering Illinois schools for the first time shall be immunized. The Department of Public Health shall promulgate rules and regulations requiring immunizations and booster immunizations of children against preventable communicable diseases.

Hearing and Vision Screening

The Illinois Child Vision and Hearing Test Act establishes mandated vision and hearing screening in schools and preschools throughout the state. Our school nurse, Trish Baker BSN, RN, is certified by the Illinois Department of Public Health and will be conducting screenings for Marissa CUSD #40. The parents or legal guardians of a student may object to hearing or vision screening tests for their children on religious grounds. If a religious objection is made, a written and signed statement from the parent or legal guardian detailing such objections must be presented to the school.

Hearing screening must be provided annually for preschool children 3 years of age or older and for all school-age children grades kindergarten, first, second and third; are in special education class; have been referred by a teacher; or are transfer students. In lieu of the screening services required, a completed and signed report form indicating the child had an ear examination by a physician and audiological evaluation completed by an audiologist within the previous 12 months is acceptable.

Vision screening must be provided annually for preschool children 3 years of age or older and for school-age children in kindergarten, second and eighth grades; are in special education class; have been referred by a teacher; or are transfer students. In lieu of the screening services required, a completed and signed report form indicating that an eye examination by a doctor specializing in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist has been administered within the previous 12 months is acceptable.

Student Medication

The school recognizes that many children are able to attend school because of the effective use of medication in the treatment of disabilities or illnesses. If at all possible, medication should be administered in the home. However, any pupil who is required to take medication during the regular school day must comply with the following school regulations:

1. Medication must be brought to school in a container appropriately labeled by the pharmacy or physician.

2. Written permission must be received from the parent or guardian detailing the name of the drug, dosage, and time interval medication is to be taken along with any potential side effects. Written permission must be signed and dated by the parent or guardian.

Aspirin will only be issued at school if a student brings it to school in its original container with a consent form signed by a parent. (Consent forms are available from the nurse or on our school website.)
All medicines must be placed in the nurse’s office.

5. A pass will be required to leave and return to class when a student needs to take medicine.

Guidance and Counseling

School Counselor’s services are available for every student in the school. These services include assistance with educational planning, interpretation of test scores, faculty services regarding individual students, and individual counseling (education, occupational, and personal). Students or parents wishing to visit the counselor must contact the School counselor to arrange for an appointment.

Safety Drills Procedures and Conduct

Safety drills will occur at times established by the school board. Students are required to be silent and shall comply with the directives of school officials during emergency drills. There will be a minimum of three (3) evacuation drills, a minimum of one (1) severe weather (shelter-in-place) drill, a minimum of one (1) law enforcement lockdown drill to address a school shooting incident, and a minimum of one (1) bus evacuation drill each school year. There may be other drills at the direction of the administration. The law enforcement lockdown drill will be announced in advance and a student’s parent/guardian may elect to exclude their child from participating in this drill. All other drills will not be preceded by a warning to students.

Cross-References: PRESS 4:170, Safety

PRESS 4:170-AP1, Comprehensive Safety and Security Plan

Head Lice

Head lice are a common condition in school aged children. We encourage regular at home assessments for head lice to prevent infestations at school. Reminding your child not to share items such as combs, brushes, hats, etc. may help to prevent the spread. Although head lice can be considered a nuisance, it is not considered to be a communicable disease or illness in schools according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

If head lice are present, treatment with a medicated head lice shampoo is needed and others in the home should be treated as well. It is necessary after treatment to comb the remaining nits from the hair to prevent future infestation. Cleaning bedding, stuffed animals, furniture, car seats, carpeting, and other fabric-covered surfaces is also helpful.

Our district follows guidelines from the Illinois Department of Public Health and the CDC. Students presenting with symptoms of head lice will be subject to assessment by administration or the school nurse. If lice are present, a parent will be notified and an informational email or letter will be sent home. Students may return to school once the treatment process has begun.

Targeted School Violence Prevention Program

Threats and acts of targeted school violence harm the District’s environment and school community, diminishing students’ ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate. Providing students and staff with access to a safe and secure environment is an important goal of the School and District. While it is not possible to completely eliminate threats, the School and District maintain a Targeted School Violence Prevention Program and a Threat Assessment Team to reduce these risks to its environment.

Parents/guardians and students are encouraged to report any expressed threats or behaviors that may represent a threat to the community, School, or self. Reports can be made to any school administrator, law enforcement authorities, or the Safe2Help Illinois helpline (www.safe2helpil.com/).

Students and parents are urged to participate in behavioral threat assessment and intervention programs if the Behavioral Threat Assessment Team believes that intervention is necessary to prevent a student from harming themselves or others. However, if for some reason there is a reluctance to participate in the process by the threat maker(s) or parent/guardian(s), the threat assessment process will continue in order to ensure a safe and caring learning environment for all.

For further information, please contact the Building Principal.

Cross Reference: PRESS 4:190, Targeted School Violence Prevention Program

Ch 6: Discipline and Conduct

It is the policy of Marissa Jr./Sr. High School to maintain a safe and productive learning environment. MJSHS also maintains a set of external discipline rules, guidelines and consequences for the student who chooses to act outside those limits of acceptable behavior.

General Building Conduct

Students shall not arrive at school before 7:30 a.m. All students should enter through the student entrance doors, labeled W4, until 8:00 a.m. After 8:00 a.m., all students must enter through the main entrance, labeled N4.

Students should remain in the commons area until the first bell rings at 8:00 a.m. Only students with a pass from a teacher will only be allowed in the academic area before the first bell.

Classes begin at 8:03 a.m. and students are dismissed at 3:10 p.m. each day. Students, except with a pass from a teacher, are not allowed in the academic area after 3:15 pm.

The following rules shall apply, and failure to abide by the rules may result in discipline:

Students are expected to show respect and common courtesy to teachers and staff at all times.
Hats and bandanas shall not be worn in the building. Any hat brought to school shall be removed before entering.
The holding of hands will be tolerated as the only sign of affection. Students will be asked to refrain from other signs of affection.
Students shall address school employees by their proper titles: Ms., Miss, Mrs., Mr., Dr., etc.
Students shall not run, talk loudly or yell in the hallways nor shall they push, shove or hit others.
No food or non-water beverages are allowed in the academic area.
Skateboards are not permitted at school.
No radios, tape players, CD players, cameras are permitted without permission from the principal.
When a MJSHS student turns 18 years of age, he/she still must follow the rules and guidelines set forth in the student handbook. If a parent/guardian needs to excuse/sign out a student under age 18, then the same rule applies to students who are 18. Unless the student is emancipated from his/her parents (court granted), then the 18-year-old must follow the same rules as other students.

Dress Code

Marissa District #40 reserves the right to disallow any style or type of clothing that the administration determines may interfere with the educational process. Students are expected to dress in a clean, neat and appropriate manner. Student dress should adhere to the following:

Clothing that creates a health problem, safety hazard, or is disruptive to the learning process will not be permitted. This includes clothing that is excessively revealing, displays profanity, advertises alcoholic beverages and/or tobacco products, advertises the use of illegal substances, or is overtly vulgar.
The wearing of “spaghetti strap” tops, halter tops, and tank tops is not appropriate. Midriffs, bare backs, cleavage and undergarments may not be exposed. Athletes who are asked to change for game day will be the exception.
Very short shorts/skirts and low cut blouses/shirts that are revealing will not be permitted.
Sunglasses, bandanas, and hats (unless specified on spirit days) shall not be worn in the buildings during the school day with the exception of head scarves or head gear/attire worn as part of a student’s religious practice or for medical reasons. Hoodies, or sweatshirts with hoods, should not be worn with the hood up while in the school building.
Pants and shorts must be worn at the waistline; “sagging” is prohibited.
Shoes must be worn at all times.
Tattoos that, by their content, violate any provisions of the Student Dress Code must be covered at all times.
Pierced jewelry must be removed during physical education class or other classes where safety is an issue.
Spiked apparel, accessories or chains that can be used as weapons shall not be worn in the building during the school day.
Coats and blankets are not permitted in classrooms and should be stored in the student’s locker during school hours.
Protective attire shall be worn in those classes that require protection for the safety and well being of the student.
Purses/Handbags/Backpacks/Fanny packs are not allowed in the classroom and should remain in the locker area.
Physical Education uniforms will be a requirement for grades 7-12

Faculty and staff will make every effort to be consistent in the manner in which they determine the appropriateness of student dress. If a teacher or staff member finds student dress to be a disruption in the classroom, the student will be sent to the office. Students will be asked to find a clothing item appropriate from the clothing closet, or remain in ISS until someone can bring up alternative clothing. All dress code violations, even those classified as warnings, will be documented by the office staff. Multiple violations of the dress code guidelines will be considered insubordination. The building administration is the final authority for judging the appropriateness of a student’s appearance at school.

Cell Phone Policy

While we appreciate the importance of communication between a parent and child and the assurance a cell phone provides, especially to students walking to/from school, cell phones should be regarded as emergency phones and/or used only when approved by the principal.

Before and After School: Students are free to use their cell phones, for school appropriate reasons, in the Commons area prior to the first school bell. Please note that students are not to take video or pictures while on school property.

During the school day: All phones must be in locked Yondr pouches throughout the school day, unless the use of the device is provided in a student’s individualized education program (IEP) for medical reasons. Exceptions will be made for students to use their phones during their lunch period if they have permission by administration. Students that need to use a telephone in the case of illness or emergency will be allowed to use the office phone. Any and all telephone calls made by students must be made from the office during a typical school day. Students not following the cell phone policy will be disciplined as follows:

1st offense: Phone taken to the office and student can get it back at the end of the day
2nd offense: Parent must pick up the phone or student gets an ASD
3rd offense: Student will immediately be sent to ISS for the equivalent of a school day
If further offenses occur, other consequences will be assigned as necessary.
All offenses will be documented

Smartwatches can be worn solely for the purpose of telling time. If a student is communicating on their watch, they will be given the same offenses as a cell phone violation. Lost or stolen cell phones are not the responsibility of Marissa Dist. 40.

Student Behavior

Prohibited Student Conduct

Students may be disciplined for gross disobedience or misconduct, including but not limited to the following:

Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, selling or offering tobacco or nicotine materials, including electronic cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, vape pens or other vaping related products.
Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling alcoholic beverages. Students who are under the influence of an alcoholic beverage are not permitted to attend school or school functions and are treated as though they had alcohol in their possession.
Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, selling or offering for sale:

Any illegal drug, controlled substance, or cannabis (including marijuana, hashish, and medical cannabis unless the student is authorized to be administered a medical cannabis infused product under Ashley’s Law).
Any anabolic steroid unless it is being administered in accordance with a physician’s or licensed practitioner’s prescription.
Any performance-enhancing substance on the Illinois High School Association’s most current banned substance list unless administered in accordance with a physician’s or licensed practitioner’s prescription.
Any prescription drug when not prescribed for the student by a physician or licensed practitioner, or when used in a manner inconsistent with the prescription or prescribing physician’s or licensed practitioner’s instructions. The use or possession of medical cannabis, even by a student for whom medical cannabis has been prescribed, is prohibited unless the student is authorized to be administered a medical cannabis infused product under Ashley’s Law.
Any inhalant, regardless of whether it contains an illegal drug or controlled substance: (a) that a student believes is, or represents to be capable of, causing intoxication, hallucination, excitement, or dulling of the brain or nervous system; or (b) about which the student engaged in behavior that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the student intended the inhalant to cause intoxication, hallucination, excitement, or dulling of the brain or nervous system. The prohibition in this section does not apply to a student’s use of asthma or other legally prescribed inhalant medications.
“Look-alike” or counterfeit drugs, including a substance that is not prohibited by this policy, but one: (a) that a student believes to be, or represents to be, an illegal drug, controlled substance, or other substance that is prohibited by this policy; or (b) about which a student engaged in behavior that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the student expressly or impliedly represented to be an illegal drug, controlled substance or other substance that is prohibited by this policy.
Drug paraphernalia, including devices that are or can be used to: (a) ingest, inhale, or inject cannabis or controlled substances into the body; and (b) grow, process, store, or conceal cannabis or controlled substances.
Any substance inhaled, injected, smoked, consumed or otherwise ingested or absorbed with the intention of causing a physiological or psychological change in the body, including without limitation, pure caffeine in a tablet or powdered form.

Students who are under the influence of any prohibited substance are not permitted to attend school or school functions and are treated as though they have the prohibited substance, as applicable, in their possession.

Using, possessing, controlling or transferring a “weapon” or violating the procedures listed below under the Weapons Prohibition section of this handbook procedure.
Using or possessing an electronic paging device.
Using a cellular telephone, smartphone, video recording device, personal digital assistant (PDA), or similar electronic device in any manner that disrupts the educational environment or violates the rights of others, including using the device to take photographs in locker rooms or bathrooms, cheat, or otherwise violate student conduct rules. Prohibited conduct specifically includes, without limitation, creating and sending, sharing, viewing, receiving or possessing an indecent visual depiction of oneself or another person through the use of a computer, electronic communication device or cellular telephone, commonly known as “sexting.” Unless otherwise banned under this policy or by the building principal, all cellular phones, smartphones and other electronic devices must be kept powered-off and out-of-sight during the regular school day unless: (a) the supervising teacher grants permission; (b) use of the device is provided in a student’s individualized education program (IEP); (c) it is used during the student’s lunch period; or (d) it is needed in an emergency that threatens the safety of students, staff, or other individuals..
Using or possessing a laser pointer unless under a staff member’s direct supervision and in the context of instruction.
Disobeying rules of student conduct or directives from staff members or school officials. Examples of disobeying staff directives include refusing a staff member’s request to stop, present school identification or submit to a search.
Engaging in academic dishonesty, including cheating, intentionally plagiarizing, wrongfully giving or receiving help during an academic examination, altering report cards and wrongfully obtaining test copies or scores.
Engaging in bullying, hazing or any kind of aggressive behavior that does physical or psychological harm to a staff person or another student or encouraging other students to engage in such behavior. Prohibited conduct specifically includes, without limitation, any use of violence, intimidation, force, noise, coercion, threats, stalking, harassment, sexual harassment, public humiliation, theft or destruction of property, retaliation, hazing, bullying, bullying using a school computer or a school computer network or other comparable conduct.
Engaging in any sexual activity, including without limitation, offensive touching, sexual harassment, indecent exposure (including mooning) and sexual assault.
Engaging in teen dating violence.
Causing or attempting to cause damage to, stealing, or attempting to steal, school property or another person’s personal property.
Entering school property or a school facility without proper authorization.
In the absence of a reasonable belief that an emergency exists, calling emergency responders (calling 9-1-1); signaling or setting off alarms or signals indicating the presence of an emergency; or indicating the presence of a bomb or explosive device on school grounds, school bus or at any school activity.
Being absent without a recognized excuse.
Being involved with any public school fraternity, sorority, or secret society.
Being involved in a gang or engaging in gang-like activities, including displaying gang symbols or paraphernalia.
Violating any criminal law, including but not limited to, assault, battery, arson, theft, gambling, eavesdropping, vandalism and hazing.
Engaging in any activity, on or off campus, that interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the school environment, school operations, or an educational function, including but not limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to: (a) be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a staff member; or (b) endanger the health or safety of students, staff, or school property.
Making an explicit threat on an Internet website against a school employee, a student, or any school-related personnel if the Internet website through which the threat was made is a site that was accessible within the school at the time the threat was made or was available to third parties who worked or studied within the school grounds at the time the threat was made, and the threat could be reasonably interpreted as threatening to the safety and security of the threatened individual because of his or her duties or employment status or status as a student inside the school.
Operating an unarmed aircraft system (AUS) or drone for any purpose on school grounds or at any school event unless granted permission by the building principal.

For purposes of these rules, the term “possession” includes having control, custody, or care, currently or in the past, of an object or substance, including situations in which the item is: (a) on the student’s person; (b) contained in another item belonging to, or under the control of, the student, such as in the student’s clothing, backpack, or automobile; (c) in a school’s student locker, desk, or other school property; (d) at any location on school property or at a school-sponsored event; or (e) in the case of drugs and alcohol, substances ingested by the person.

Efforts, including the use of positive interventions and supports shall be made to deter students, while at school or a school-related event, from engaging in aggressive behavior that may reasonably produce physical or psychological harm to someone else.

No disciplinary action shall be taken against any student that is based totally or in part on the refusal of the student’s parent/guardian to administer or consent to the administration of psychotropic or psychostimulant medication to the student.

When and Where Conduct Rules Apply

The grounds for disciplinary action also apply whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities, including but not limited to:

On, or within sight of, school grounds before, during, or after school hours or at any time;
Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a reasonable relationship to school;
Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event; or
Anywhere, if the conduct interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the school environment, school operations, or an educational function, including but not limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to: (a) be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a staff member; or (b) endanger the health or safety of students, staff, or school property; or
During periods of remote learning.

Discipline Measures

School officials shall limit the number and duration of expulsions and out-of-school suspensions to the greatest extent practical, and where practical and reasonable, shall consider forms of non-exclusionary discipline before using out-of-school suspensions or expulsions. School personnel shall not advise or encourage students to drop out of school voluntarily due to behavioral or academic difficulties. Students who have excess violations of discipline may be denied the right to attend or participate in school-sponsored activities. Potential disciplinary measures include, without limitation, any of the following measures:

1. Notifying parents/guardians.

2. Disciplinary conference.

3. Withholding of privileges.

4. Temporary removal from the classroom.

5. Return of property or restitution for lost, stolen or damaged property.

6. After-school study

7. In-school suspension

8. Community Service

9. Seizure of contraband; confiscation and temporary retention of the personal property that was used to violate school rules.

10. Suspension of bus riding privileges.

11. Suspension from school and all school activities for up to 10 days. A suspended student is prohibited from being on school grounds.

12. Expulsion from school and all school activities for a definite time period not to exceed 2 calendar years. An expelled student is prohibited from being on school grounds.

13. Transfer to an alternative program if the student is expelled or otherwise qualifies for transfer under State law.

14. Notifying juvenile authorities or other law enforcement whenever the conduct involves criminal activity, such as, illegal drugs (controlled substances), “look-alikes,” alcohol or weapons or in other circumstances as authorized by the reciprocal reporting agreement between the District and local law enforcement agencies.

With the respect to matters relative to the reciprocal reporting agreement between schools and the police as required by Illinois School Law, local authorities may be called in some cases, but not limited to battery, theft, drugs, vandalism, alcohol abuse, reckless driving, insubordination, disrespect, weapons, arson, etc. When police are called and arrive at MJSHS, jurisdiction in the matter is completely turned over to the police and all constitutional due process rights apply. While MJSHS may relinquish control of the incident, we will still take appropriate disciplinary actions. We will make every effort to contact the parent/guardian when the police interview students at MJSHS.

The above list of disciplinary measures is a range of options that will not always be applicable in every case. In some circumstances, it may not be possible to avoid suspending or expelling a student because behavioral interventions, other than a suspension or expulsion, will not be appropriate and available, and the only reasonable and practical way to resolve the threat and/or address the disruption is a suspension or expulsion.

Isolated Time Out, Time Out and Physical Restraint

Isolated time out, time out, and physical restraint shall only be used if the student’s behavior presents an imminent danger of serious physical harm to the student or others and other less restrictive and intrusive measures were tried and proven ineffective in stopping it. The school may not use isolated time out, time out, and physical restraint as discipline or punishment, convenience for staff, retaliation, a substitute for appropriate educational or behavioral support, a routine safety matter, or to prevent property damage in the absence of imminent danger of serious physical harm to the student or others.

Corporal Punishment

Corporal punishment is illegal and will not be used. Corporal punishment is defined as slapping, paddling, or prolonged maintenance of students in physically painful positions, or intentional infliction of bodily harm. Corporal punishment does not include reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for students, staff, or other persons, or for the purpose of self-defense or defense of property. The use of prone restraint is prohibited.

Weapons Prohibition

A student who is determined to have brought one of the following objects to school, any school-sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a reasonable relationship to school shall be expelled for a period of not less than one year but not more than 2 calendar years:

(1) A firearm, meaning any gun, rifle, shotgun, weapon as defined by Section 921 of Title 18 of the United States Code, firearm as defined in Section 1.1 of the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act, or firearm as defined in Section 24-1 of the Criminal Code of 1961. The expulsion period may be modified by the superintendent, and the superintendent’s determination may be modified by the board on a case-by-case basis.

(2) A knife, brass knuckles or other knuckle weapon regardless of its composition, a billy club, or any other object if used or attempted to be used to cause bodily harm, including “look alikes” of any firearm as defined above.

The expulsion requirement may be modified by the superintendent, and the superintendent’s determination may be modified by the board on a case-by-case basis.

Gang & Gang Activity Prohibited

“Gang” is defined as any group, club or organization of two or more persons whose purposes include the commission of illegal acts. No student on or about school property or at any school activity or whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to a school activity, shall: (1) wear, possess, use, distribute, display, or sell any clothing, jewelry, paraphernalia or other items which reasonably could be regarded as gang symbols; commit any act or omission, or use either verbal or non‐verbal gestures, or handshakes showing membership or affiliation in a gang; or (2) use any speech or commit any act or omission in furtherance of the interest of any gang or gang activity, including, but not limited to, soliciting others for membership in any gangs; (3) request any person to pay protection or otherwise intimidate, harass or threaten any person; (4) commit any other illegal act or other violation of district policies, (5) or incite other students to act with physical violence upon any other person.

Re-Engagement of Returning Students

The building principal or designee shall meet with a student returning to school from an out-of-school suspension, expulsion or alternative school setting. The goal of this meeting shall be to support the student’s ability to be successful in school following a period of exclusion and shall include an opportunity for students who have been suspended to complete or make-up missed work for equivalent academic credit.

Cross-references:

PRESS 7:190, Student Behavior

PRESS 7:190-AP2, Gang Activity Prohibited

Prevention of and Response to Bullying, Intimidation and Harassment

Bullying, intimidation, and harassment diminish a student’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate. Preventing students from engaging in these disruptive behaviors and providing all students equal access to a safe, non-hostile learning environment are important district and school goals.

Bullying on the basis of academic status, actual or perceived race, color, national origin, military status, unfavorable discharge status from the military service, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender-related identity or expression, ancestry, age, religion, physical appearance, physical or mental disability, order of protection status, socioeconomic status, status of being homeless, or actual or potential marital or parental status, including pregnancy, association with a person or group with one or more of the aforementioned actual or perceived characteristics, or any other distinguishing characteristic is prohibited in each of the following situations:

During any school-sponsored education program or activity.
While in school, on school property, on school buses or other school vehicles, at designated school bus stops waiting for the school bus, or at school-sponsored or school-sanctioned events or activities.
Through the transmission of information from a school computer, a school computer network, or other similar electronic school equipment.
Through the transmission of information from a computer that is accessed at a non-school-related location, activity, function, or program or from the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased, or used by the school district or school if the bullying causes a substantial disruption to the educational process or orderly operation of a school.

Bullying includes cyber-bullying and means any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or electronically, directed toward a student or students that has or can be reasonably predicted to have the effect of one or more of the following:

Placing the student or students in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s or students’ person or property;
Causing a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s or students’ physical or mental health;
Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ academic performance; or
Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.

Cyberbullying means bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, including without limitation any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic system, photo-electronic system, or photo-optical system, including without limitation electronic mail, Internet communications, instant messages, or facsimile communications. Cyberbullying includes the creation of a webpage or weblog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person or the knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages if the creation or impersonation creates any of the effects enumerated in the definition of bullying. Cyberbullying also includes the distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons if the distribution or posting creates any of the effects enumerated in the definition of bullying.

Bullying may take various forms, including without limitation one or more of the following: harassment, threats, intimidation, stalking, physical violence, sexual harassment, sexual violence, theft, public humiliation, destruction of property, or retaliation for asserting or alleging an act of bullying. This list is meant to be illustrative and non-exhaustive.

Students are encouraged to immediately report bullying. A report may be made orally or in writing to the building principal, nondiscrimination coordinator, district complaint manager or any staff member with whom the student is comfortable speaking. All school staff members are available for help with a bully or to make a report about bullying. Anyone, including staff members and parents/guardians, who has information about actual or threatened bullying is encouraged to report it to the district complaint manager or any staff member. Anonymous reports are also accepted by phone call or in writing.

A reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of bullying is prohibited. A student’s act of reprisal or retaliation will be treated as bullying for purposes of determining any consequences or other appropriate remedial actions.

A student will not be punished for reporting bullying or supplying information, even if the school’s investigation concludes that no bullying occurred. However, knowingly making a false accusation or providing knowingly false information will be treated as bullying for purposes of determining any consequences or other appropriate remedial actions.

Students and parents/guardians are also encouraged to read the following school district policies: 7:20, Harassment of Students Prohibited and 7:180, Prevention of and Response to Bullying, Intimidation and Harassment.3

Consistent with federal and State laws and rules governing student privacy rights, the school shall make diligent efforts to notify a parent or guardian within 24-hours after the school’s administration is made aware of a student’s involvement in an alleged bullying incident. The term “bullying incident” includes individual instances of bullying, as well as all threats, suggestions, or instances of self-harm determined to be a result of bullying. Notification to a parent or guardian shall include, as appropriate, the availability of social work services, counseling, school psychological services, other interventions, and restorative measures.

Cross-references:

PRESS 7:20, Harassment of Students Prohibited

PRESS 7:180, Prevention of and Response to Bullying, Intimidation and Harassment

PRESS 7:190, Student Behavior

PRESS 2:260, Uniform Grievance Procedure

Discrimination and Harassment on the Basis of Race, Color, and National Origin Prohibited

Discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, or national origin negatively affects a student’s ability to learn and an employee’s ability to work. Providing an educational and workplace environment free from such discrimination and harassment is an important District and School goal. The District and School do not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, or national origin in any of its education programs or activities and comply with federal and State non-discrimination laws.

Examples of Prohibited Conduct

Examples of conduct that may constitute discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin include: disciplining students more harshly and frequently because of their race, color, or national origin; denying students access to high-rigor academic courses, extracurricular activities, or other educational opportunities based on their race, color, or national origin; denying language services or other educational opportunities to English learners; and assigning students special education services based on a student's race, color, or national origin.

Harassment is a form of prohibited discrimination. Examples of conduct that may constitute harassment on the basis of race, color, or national origin include: the use of racial, ethnic or ancestral slurs or stereotypes; taunts; name-calling; offensive or derogatory remarks about a person's actual or perceived race, color, or national origin; the display of racially-offensive symbols; racially-motivated physical threats and attacks; or other hateful conduct.

Making a Report or Complaint; Investigation Process

Individuals are encouraged to promptly report claims or incidents of discrimination or harassment based on race, color, or national origin to the Nondiscrimination Coordinator, a Complaint Manager, or any employee with whom the student is comfortable speaking. Reports will be processed under the District’s Uniform Grievance Procedure.

Reports and complaints of discrimination or harassment will be confidential to the greatest extent practicable, subject to the District’s duty to investigate and maintain an educational environment that is productive, respectful, and free of unlawful discrimination, including harassment.

Federal and State Agencies

If the District fails to take necessary corrective action to stop harassment based on race, color, or national origin, further relief may be available through the Illinois Dept. of Human Rights (IDHR) or the U.S. Dept. of Education's Office for Civil Rights. To contact IDHR, go to: https://dhr.illinois.gov/about-us/contact-idhr.html or call (312) 814-6200 (Chicago) or (217) 785-5100 (Springfield).

Prevention and Response Program

The District maintains a prevention and response program to respond to complaints of discrimination based on race, color, and national origin, including harassment, and retaliation. The program includes procedures for responding to complaints which:

1. Reduce or remove, to the extent practicable, barriers to reporting discrimination, harassment, and retaliation;

2. Permit any person who reports or is the victim of an incident of alleged discrimination, harassment, or retaliation to be accompanied when making a report by a support individual of the person's choice who complies with the District's policies and rules;

3. Permit anonymous reporting, except that an anonymous report may not be the sole basis of any disciplinary action;

4. Offer remedial interventions or take such disciplinary action as may be appropriate on a case-by-case basis;

5. Offer, but do not require or unduly influence, a person who reports or is the victim of an incident of harassment or retaliation the option to resolve allegations directly with the accused; and

6. Protects a person who reports or is the victim of an incident of harassment or retaliation from suffering adverse consequences as a result of a report of, investigation of, or a response to the incident.

Enforcement

Any District employee who is determined, after an investigation, to have engaged in conduct prohibited by this policy will be subject to remedial action and/or disciplinary action, up to and including discharge.

Any District student who is determined, after an investigation, to have engaged in conduct prohibited by this policy will be subject to remedial action and/or disciplinary action, including but not limited to, suspension and expulsion, consistent with the student discipline information in this handbook.

Any third party who is determined, after an investigation, to have engaged in conduct prohibited by this policy will be addressed in accordance with the authority of the Board in the context of the relationship of the third party to the District, e.g., vendor, parent, invitee, etc. Any person making a knowingly false accusation regarding prohibited conduct will likewise be subject to remedial and/or disciplinary action.

Retaliation Prohibited

Retaliation against any person for bringing complaints, participating in the complaint process, or otherwise providing information about discrimination or harassment based on race, color, or national origin is prohibited.

Individuals should report allegations of retaliation to the Building Principal, an administrator, the Nondiscrimination Coordinator, and/or a Complaint Manager.

Cross-references: PRESS 2:270, Discrimination and Harassment on the Basis of Race, Color, and National Origin Prohibited

Harassment and Teen Dating Violence Prohibited

Harassment Prohibited

No person, including a school or school district employee or agent, or student, shall harass, intimidate, or bully a student on the basis of actual or perceived: race; color; national origin; military status; unfavorable discharge status from military service; sex; sexual orientation; gender identity1; gender-related identity or expression; ancestry; age; religion; physical or mental disability; order of protection status; status of being homeless; actual or potential marital or parental status, including pregnancy; association with a person or group with one or more of the aforementioned actual or perceived characteristics; or any other distinguishing characteristic. The District will not tolerate harassing, intimidating conduct, or bullying whether verbal, physical, sexual, or visual, that affects the tangible benefits of education, that unreasonably interferes with a student’s educational performance, or that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment. Examples of prohibited conduct include name-calling, using derogatory slurs, stalking, sexual violence, causing psychological harm, threatening or causing physical harm, threatened or actual destruction of property, or wearing or possessing items depicting or implying hatred or prejudice of one of the characteristics stated above.

Sexual Harassment Prohibited

The school and district shall provide an educational environment free of verbal, physical, or other conduct or communications constituting harassment on the basis of sex as defined and otherwise prohibited by State and federal law.

Teen Dating Violence Prohibited

Engaging in teen dating violence that takes place at school, on school property, at school-sponsored activities, or in vehicles used for school-provided transportation is prohibited. For purposes of this policy, the term teen dating violence occurs whenever a student who is 13 to 19 years of age uses or threatens to use physical, mental, or emotional abuse to control an individual in the dating relationship; or uses or threatens to use sexual violence in the dating relationship.

For more information about this issue, please see the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s educational materials at: www.cdc.gov/injury/features/dating-violence/index.html

Making a Report or Complaint

Students are encouraged to promptly report claims or incidences of bullying, intimidation, harassment, sexual harassment, or any other prohibited conduct to the Nondiscrimination Coordinator, Building Principal, Assistant Building Principal, Dean of Students, a Complaint Manager, or any employee with whom the student is comfortable speaking. A student may choose to report to an employee of the student’s same gender.

Nondiscrimination Coordinator:

Jeff Strieker, Superintendent

1 E. Marissa St.

Marissa, IL 62257

618-295-2313

jstrieker@marissa40.org

Complaint Managers:

Melissa Meyer, Principal Kyle Schwartz, Assist. Principal

300 School View Dr. 300 School View Dr.

Marissa, IL 62257 Marissa, IL 62257

618-295-2393 ext. 101 618-295-2393 ext. 103

mimeyer@marissa40.org kschwartz@marissa40.org

Any person making a knowingly false accusation regarding prohibited conduct will likewise be subject to discipline.

Investigation Process

Enforcement

Retaliation Prohibited

Individuals should report allegations of retaliation to the Building Principal, an administrator, the Nondiscrimination Coordinator, and/or a Complaint Manager

Cross-references:

PRESS 7:20, Harassment of Students Prohibited

PRESS 7:185, Teen Dating Violence Prohibited

Lunch/Cafeteria Rules

Students may not leave campus during lunch, except with permission granted by administration or authorized staff. During lunch, students must proceed directly to the cafeteria or commons area, and, after getting their lunch, shall immediately sit at a table. Students shall remain seated until the lunch tone rings, at which point they shall clean the area in which they are seated, dispose of any trash in the appropriate receptacle, and exit the cafeteria to their assigned location. Students shall follow all cafeteria rules during lunch.

Lunch Rules

Students shall not save seats for other students.
Loud talking, yelling, screaming, and other disruptions are prohibited.
Students shall not throw food or drinks.
Students shall not trade food.
No student should purchase items from the vending machines during lunch periods.

Vending machines may be used before school, special times throughout the school day as determined by the administration, and after school hours.

Students shall not save places in line, cut in line, or otherwise cheat or intimidate their way into line for food service.
Students shall not leave the cafeteria until after the appropriate tone rings, or otherwise directed by staff.
Students shall follow the instructions of the cafeteria aides and other staff and show proper respect toward all cafeteria personnel.
Students shall immediately become silent when staff or presenters make announcements in the cafeteria.
Students shall report spills and broken containers to cafeteria staff immediately.

Misbehavior will result in disciplinary action in according to the school’s disciplinary procedures.

Field Trips

Field trips are a privilege for students.

Students on school-sponsored field trips should be aware of the fact that all such trips are considered merely an extension of the classroom and all normal regulations are in effect. School dress code still applies. No student will be allowed to take part in the field trip without a proper parental permission form and student waiver form. All students who attend a school-sponsored field trip will be required to use district transportation going to and returning from any field trip. Students will not be allowed to use alternative transportation to return from any field trip. The school office will approve field trips and lists of participants in advance.

Students may be prohibited from attending field trips for any of the following reasons:

Failure to receive appropriate permission from parent/guardian or teacher;
Failure to complete appropriate coursework;
Behavioral or safety concerns;
Denial of permission from administration;
Other reasons as determined by the school.

Students with records of chronic absenteeism, discipline problems, or failing grades will not be approved for these trips.

Access to Student Social Networking Passwords and Websites

School officials may conduct an investigation or require a student to cooperate in an investigation if there is specific information about activity on the student’s account on a social networking website that violates a school disciplinary rule or policy. In the course of an investigation, the student may be required to share the content that is reported in order to allow school officials to make a factual determination.

Cross References:

PRESS 7:140, Search and Seizure

PRESS 7:140-E Letter to Parents/Guardians Regarding the Right to Privacy in the School Setting

Id Cards

Students will be given I.D. cards at the beginning of the first quarter. They are encouraged to carry I.D. cards at all times during the school day. To promote school security all students must be able to produce a Marissa Jr/Sr High School I.D. when asked by a faculty or staff member. The following guidelines will be observed:

The ID badges are the responsibility of each student.
If a Marissa Jr/Sr High School student cannot produce a current badge during an ID check, at lunch, or during library, he/she will be issued a replacement badge at that time for a cost of $5.00. Students with outstanding ID fees will not be permitted to attend school-related extracurricular activities until the fee is paid. (ex: dances, class field trips, etc.) This outstanding fee must be paid by the end of the school day on which the activity is scheduled to take place for the student to attend or participate.

CH. 7: Internet, Technology and Publications

INTERNET / COMPUTER ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

All use of the Internet shall be consistent with the District’s goal of promoting educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. This Authorization does not attempt to state all required or proscribed behavior by users. However, some specific examples are provided. The failure of any user to follow the terms of the Authorization for Electronic Network will result in the loss of privileges, disciplinary action, and/or appropriate legal action.

Terms and Conditions

Acceptable use - Access to the District’s electronic networks must be (a) for the purpose of education or research, and be consistent with the educational objectives of the District, or (b) for legitimate business use.
Privileges - The use of the District’s electronic networks is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. School Administration will make all decisions regarding whether or not a user has this Authorization and may deny, revoke, or suspend access at any time; his or her decision is final.
Unacceptable Use - The user is responsible for his or her actions and activities involving the network.

Some examples of unacceptable uses are:

Using the network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other contracts, or transmitting any material in violation of any U.S. or State law.
Unauthorized downloading of software, regardless of whether it is copyrighted or de-virused.
Saving copyrighted material for other than personal use.
Using the network for private financial or commercial gain.
Wastefully using resources, such as file space.
Hacking or gaining unauthorized access to files, resources, or entities.
Invading the privacy of individuals, this includes the unauthorized disclosure, dissemination, and use of information about anyone that is of a personal nature.
Using another user’s account or password.
Posting material authored or created by another without his/her consent.
Posting anonymous messages.
Using the network for commercial or private advertising.
Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, or displaying any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually-oriented, threatening, racially offensive, harassing, or illegal material.
Using the network while access privileges are suspended or revoked
Students are not to bring food, drinks, gum, or candy of any kind into the computer lab.
NO games will be allowed except Educational games that are integrated into the lesson plans.
NO instant messaging will be allowed.
NO posting on message boards will be allowed.
This list is not all-inclusive. Any other misuse of the Internet deemed inappropriate by school personnel may result in disciplinary action.

CONSEQUENCES: The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right. Should any of the unacceptable use rules be violated, the school administration will make the decision whether to deny, revoke, or suspend access at any time; his/her decision is final, along with handbook policy rules.

No Warranties - The District makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. The District will not be responsible for any damages the user suffers. This includes loss of data resulting from delay, non-deliveries, missed-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its negligence or the user’s errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the user's own risk. The District specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.
Compensation - The user agrees to compensate the School District for any losses, costs, or damages, including reasonable attorney fees, incurred by the District relating to, or arising out of, any breach of the Authorization.
Security - Network security is a high priority. If students can identify a security problem on the Internet, they must notify the system administrator or school administrator. Students should not demonstrate the problems to others. Students should keep their accounts and password confidential. Do not use another individual’s account without written permission from that individual. Attempts to log-on to the Internet as a system administrator will result in cancellation of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk may be denied access to the network.
Vandalism - Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges and other disciplinary action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, the Internet, or any other network. This included, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses, unplugging, or tapering with wires.

Internet Safety

Internet access is limited to only those” acceptable uses” as detailed in these procedures. Internet safety is almost assured if users will not engage in “unacceptable uses,” as detailed in this Authorization, and otherwise follow this Authorization.
Students should be supervised by staff members at all times when they are using District Internet access to ensure that the students abide by the Terms and Conditions for Internet access contained in this Authorization.
Each District computer with Internet access has a filtering device that blocks entry to visual depictions that are (1) obscene, (2) pornographic, or (3) harmful or inappropriate for students, as defined by the Children’s Internet Protection Act and as determined by the Superintendent or designee.
If a student accidentally accessed inappropriate material, the following steps must be followed: (a) the student must IMMEDIATELY turn off the computer monitor (b) The student must IMMEDIATELY notify the adult supervisor, who will then take steps to remove the material from view. If the student follows these two steps, no computer privileges will be lost.

CONSEQUENCES: The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right. Should any of the internet safety rules be violated, the school will assume that the student is not mature enough to use the computer network and privileges will be revoked for a length of time determined by the administrator. These consequences will occur on the first offense – there will be no second chance!

STUDENTS MAY NOT USE OR GO TO THE FOLLOWING WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM THE SUPERVISOR AUTHORITY FIGURE IN THE CLASSROOM:

► E-Mail ► Message Boards

► Log-In on any account ► Instant Messaging

► Game Sites ► MySpace, Facebook, Twitter or Other Social Media

IF A STUDENT DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE ABOVE COMPUTER CONTRACT RULES, LOSS OF COMPUTER PRIVILEGES WILL OCCUR.

* Students MUST have a contract signed & on file before using a computer.

Student technology expectations:

Students will only use appropriate technology at their teachers’ discretion.
Students will only use appropriate educational applications on their device (i.e. not games and/or non-school related tasks and functions).
Students are not to call, text message, email, or electronically communicate with others from their personal device, including other students, parents, guardians, friends, and family during the school day unless directed by their teacher.
Students are expected to have all devices fully charged at the start of the school day prior to class beginning. Access to charging stations will not be permitted during the school day. Students may consider purchasing an additional battery if they have concerns about charging.
Violating the chromebook and electronic policy may cause student devices to be confiscated at the discretion of the administration.
Students not following expectations for use of personal devices will face school disciplinary measures and lose the privilege to utilize personal devices in school for an appropriate period of time to be determined by the school principal.

The Marissa CUSD #40 School Board approves this policy in order to maintain a safe and secure environment for students and employees.

A personally owned device shall include all existing and emerging technology devices that can take photographs; record audio or video; input text; upload and download media, and transmit or receive messages or images. Examples of a personally owned device include but are not limited to: MP3 players and iPods; iPads, Nooks, Kindle and other tablets; laptop and netbook computers; personal digital assistants (PDAs), as well as any device with similar capabilities. Cell phones and smartphones such as iPhones, Androids, or other electronic devices will not be allowed in class.

Educational purposes include classroom activities, career development, communication with experts, homework and limited high-quality self-discovery activities. Students are expected to act responsibly and thoughtfully when using technology resources. Students bear the burden of responsibility to inquire with school administrators and/or teachers when they are unsure of the permissibility of a particular use of technology prior to engaging in the use.

Inappropriate communication includes, but is not limited to, the following:

obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude, inflammatory, threatening, or disrespectful language or images typed, posted, or spoken by students;
information that could cause damage to an individual or the school community or create the danger of disruption of the academic environment;
personal attacks, including prejudicial or discriminatory attacks;
harassment (persistently acting in a manner that distresses or annoys another person) or stalking of others;
knowingly or recklessly posting false or defamatory information about a person or organization;
communication that promotes the destruction of property, including the acquisition or creation of weapons or other destructive devices.

If a student is told to stop sending communications, that student must cease the activity immediately. Examples of an unacceptable device in this policy shall include but are not limited to gaming devices or consoles, laser pointers, modems or routers, cell phones, and televisions.

Use of personally owned devices is permitted during instructional time for educational purposes only at the discretion of the teacher and administration.

Marissa CUSD #40 Schools shall not be liable for the loss, damage, misuse, or theft of any personally owned device brought to school.

Marissa CUSD #40 reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, and review a personally owned device or file when the administration has a reasonable suspicion that a violation has occurred.

Students must be aware of the appropriateness of communications when using district or personally owned devices. Inappropriate communication is prohibited in any public messages, private messages, and material posted online by students. Students may not utilize any technology to harass, threaten, demean, humiliate, intimidate, embarrass, or annoy their classmates or others in their community. This is an unacceptable student behavior known as cyberbullying and will not be tolerated. Any cyberbullying that is determined to disrupt the safety and/or well-being of the school is subject to disciplinary and/or legal action.

Use of personally owned devices in locker rooms, restrooms, and nurses offices is prohibited.

Students are not permitted to use any electronic device to record audio or video media or take pictures of any student or staff member without their permission. The distribution of any unauthorized media may result in discipline including but not limited to suspension, criminal charges, and expulsion.

Personally owned devices used in school are not permitted to connect to the Internet through 3G, 4G, or other content service providers. Personally owned devices should access the Internet via Marissa CUSD #40’s content filtered wireless network. District 40 will not be responsible for any additional charges a student may be charged due to personal cellular or data plans.

All students shall review this policy and the Responsible Use Policy before utilizing any school and/or personally owned devices. Marissa CUSD #40 reserves the right to restrict student use of district-owned technologies and personally owned devices on school property or at school-sponsored events.

Students must have the instructor’s permission to print during class. Students will not be able to print during non-class periods. Students printing large amounts without the teacher’s permission may be subject to additional paper and toner charges.

District 40’s technology director will not be responsible for any repairs or updates to a student’s personal device.

The information contained in this acceptable use policy is not all-inclusive and District 40 retains the right to prohibit further use of technology by students for actions detrimental to the educational process. The student-parent handbook will be applied to students who incur conduct infractions.

District 40 has the right to revise, update, or abolish this policy anytime during the school year.

Guidelines for Student Distribution of Non-School Sponsored Publications

A student or group of students seeking to distribute more than 10 copies of the same material on one or more days to students must comply with the following guidelines:

The student(s) must notify the building principal of the intent to distribute, in writing, at least 24 hours before distributing the material. No prior approval of the material is required.
The material may be distributed at times and locations determined by the building principal, e.g., before the beginning or ending of classes at a central location inside the building.
The building principal may impose additional requirements whenever necessary to prevent disruption, congestion, or the perception that the material is school-endorsed.
Distribution must be done in an orderly and peaceful manner, and may not be coercive.
The distribution must be conducted in a manner that does not cause additional work for school personnel. Students who distribute material are responsible for cleaning up any materials left on school grounds.
Students must not distribute material that:

Will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities;
Violates the rights of others, including but not limited to, material that is libelous, slanderous or obscene, invades the privacy of others, or infringes on a copyright;
Is socially inappropriate or inappropriate due to the students’ maturity level, including but not limited to, material that is obscene, pornographic, or pervasively lewd and vulgar, contains indecent and vulgar language, or sexting as defined by School Board Policy and Student Handbook,
Is reasonably viewed as promoting illegal drug use;
Is distributed in kindergarten through eighth grade and is primarily prepared by non-students, unless it is being used for school purposes. However, material from outside sources or the citation to such sources may be allowed, as long as the material to be distributed or accessed is primarily prepared by students;1 or
Incites students to violate any Board policy.

A student may use the School District’s Uniform Grievance Procedure to resolve a complaint.
Whenever these guidelines require written notification, the appropriate administrator may assist the student in preparing such notification.

A student or group of students seeking to distribute 10 or fewer copies of the same publication on one or more days to students must distribute such material at times and places and in a manner that will not cause substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities and in compliance with paragraphs 4, 5, 6, and 7.

Cross Reference:PRESS 7:310, Restrictions on Publications

Guidelines for School-Sponsored Publications, Productions and Websites

School-sponsored publications, productions and websites are governed by the Speech Rights of Student Journalists Act, school board policies and the student/parent handbook. Student journalists are responsible for determining the news, opinion, feature, and advertising content of those publications, productions, and websites.

Student journalists must:

Make decisions based upon news value and guided by the Code of Ethics provided by the Society of Professional Journalists, National Scholastic Press Association, Journalism Education Association, or other relevant group;
Produce media based upon professional standards of accuracy, objectivity, and fairness;
Review material to improve sentence structure, grammar, spelling, and punctuation;
Check and verify all facts and verify the accuracy of all quotations;
In the use of personal opinions, editorial statements, and/or letters to the editor, provide opportunity and space for the expression of differing opinions within the same media to align with the District’s media literacy curriculum mandate; and
Include an author’s name with any personal opinions and editorial statements, if appropriate.

Student journalists may not create, produce, or distribute school sponsored media that:

Is libelous, slanderous, or obscene;
Constitutes an unwanted invasion of privacy;
Violates Federal or State law, including the constitutional rights of third parties; or
Incites students to (a) commit an unlawful act; (b) violate any school district policy or student handbook procedure; or (c) materially and substantially disrupt the orderly operations of the school.

The District will not engage in prior restraint of material prepared by student journalists for school-sponsored media, unless the material fits into one of the four prohibited categories listed above, in which case the Building Principal and/or student media advisers may review, edit, and delete such media material before publication or distribution of the media.

The author’s name will accompany personal opinions and editorial statements. An opportunity for the expression of differing opinions from those published/produced will be provided within the same media.

No expression made by students in the exercise of freedom of speech or freedom of the press under this policy shall be deemed to be an expression of the School, District or an expression of Board policy.

Cross Reference:PRESS 7:315 Restrictions on Publications; High Schools

Access to Non-School Sponsored Publications

Non-School Sponsored Publications Accessed or Distributed On Campus

Creating, distributing, and/or accessing non-school sponsored publications shall occur at a time and place and in a manner that will not cause disruption, be coercive, or result in the perception that the distribution or the publication is endorsed by the School District.

Students are prohibited from creating, distributing, and/or accessing at school any publication that:

Will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities;
Violates the rights of others, including but not limited to material that is libelous, slanderous or obscene, invades the privacy of others, or infringes on a copyright;
Is socially inappropriate or inappropriate due to maturity level of the students, including but not limited to material that is obscene, pornographic, or pervasively lewd and vulgar, contains indecent and vulgar language, or sexting as defined by School Board policy and the Student Handbook;
Is reasonably viewed as promoting illegal drug use;
Is distributed in kindergarten through eighth grade and is primarily prepared by non-students, unless it is being used for school purposes. However, material from outside sources or the citation to such sources may be allowed, as long as the material to be distributed or accessed is primarily prepared by students; or
Incites students to violate any Board policies.

Accessing or distributing on-campus includes accessing or distributing on school property or at school-related activities. A student engages in gross disobedience and misconduct and may be disciplined for:

(1) accessing or distributing forbidden material, or (2) for writing, creating, or publishing such material intending for it to be accessed or distributed at school.

Non-School Sponsored Publications Accessed or Distributed Off-Campus

A student engages in gross disobedience and misconduct and may be disciplined for creating and/or distributing a publication that:

(1) causes a substantial disruption or a foreseeable risk of a substantial disruption to school operations, or (2) interferes with the rights of other students or staff members.

Cross Reference: PRESS 7:315 Restrictions on Publications; High Schools

CH. 8: Search and Seizure

MCUSD has adopted this policy for the safety and supervision of students, to maintain discipline and order in the school, and to provide for the health, safety, and welfare of students and staff. To maintain order and security in the school, school authorities may inspect and search places and areas such as lockers, desks, parking lots, and other school property and equipment owned or controlled by the school, as well as personal effects left in those places and areas by students, without notice to or the consent of the student, and without a search warrant.

As a matter of public policy, the General Assembly finds that students have no reasonable expectations of privacy in these places and areas or in their personal effects left in these places and areas.

Student Searches

Student or student property may be searched based on reasonable suspicion that a student may have drugs, alcohol, the material of a disruptive nature, stolen properties, weapons, items posing a danger to the health or safety of students and school employees, or items evidencing of a violation of school policy, local, state or federal. Reasonable suspicion must be based on facts known to the administration, credible information provided or reasonable inference drawn from such facts or information. The privacy and dignity of students shall be respected. Searches shall be carried out in the presence of adult witnesses if such witnesses are available. Students may be asked to empty pockets, bags, wallets, purses, remove jackets, coats, shoes and other articles for examination if reasonable under the circumstances.

School Property

Lockers are owned and controlled by the school for the use and benefit of the students. Lockers are subject to periodic inspection by school officials without notice, therefore students should have no expectation of privacy when using school lockers. Inspections can be held without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant. At the discretion of the Administration, students may or may not be present during locker searches.

Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not a right. The school retains the authority to conduct routine patrols of the student parking lots. The interior of a student’s automobile on school premises may be searched if a school administrator has reasonable suspicion to believe that illegal, unauthorized or contraband items or evidence of a violation of school policy are contained inside the vehicle.

Law enforcement officials shall be contacted if a search produces drugs, look-alike drugs, controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, tobacco, tobacco products, vaping devices/electronic cigarettes, weapons, stolen items, or evidence of a crime, in any case involving a violation of the law when a student refused to allow a search, or where the search cannot safely be conducted. Parents may also be contacted. School officials may appropriately discipline a student who refuses to submit to a search.

Seizure of Property

If a search produces evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the school or district’s policies or rules, evidence may be seized and impounded by school authorities, and disciplinary action may be taken. When appropriate, evidence may be transferred to law enforcement authorities.

Questioning of Students Suspected of Committing Criminal Activity

Before a law enforcement officer, school resource officer, or other school security person detains and questions on school grounds a student under 18 years of age who is suspected of committing a criminal act, the building principal or designee will: (a) Notify or attempt to notify the student’s parent/guardian and document the time and manner in writing; (b) Make reasonable efforts to ensure the student’s parent/guardian is present during questioning or, if they are not present, ensure that a school employee (including, but not limited to, a social worker, psychologist, nurse, guidance counselor, or any other mental health professional) is present during the questioning; and (c) If practicable, make reasonable efforts to ensure that a law enforcement officer trained in promoting safe interactions and communications with youth is present during the questioning.

Safety/Security

Students will be required to comply with a security checkpoint during the course of the school year. This may include but not limited to bag checks, walk through metal detectors, handheld metal detectors and random searches of student belongings and vehicles parked on school property. These checkpoints will be used randomly or could be put in place in the event of a safety concern to the building or district.

CH.9: Extracurricular and Athletic Activities

Interscholastic Activities

Any student who desires to participate in any clubs or activities must abide by all school rules and policies as well as the individual policies of the organization. Students and parents must realize that each individual club or organization will have certain rules and policies that are particular to the club or organization and must be followed as set forth by that organization or face the consequences of that organization's rules and policies.

Athletics (JH & HS)

The athletic program is administered by the Athletic Director. Marissa is represented in interscholastic competition. The High School is in the IHSA and the Junior High is in the SIJHSAA in the following sports.

Junior High: Softball, Baseball, Cross Country, Girls/Boys Basketball, Volleyball, Track and Field, Scholastic Bowl

High School: Volleyball, Girls/Boys Golf, Girls/Boys Cross Country, Girls/Boys Basketball, Cheerleading, Softball, Baseball, Scholastic Bowl

Cheerleading is an IHSA sport, but Marissa cheerleaders do not currently compete in the IHSA sanctioned competitions. A regular schedule has been made in each of the sports for the school year. A person may become a candidate for any of these teams by complying with the eligibility rules of the state and the school. Coaches select the teams based on ability. To letter in any sport, a player must complete the season. * See Section 8 Athletics

To compete in athletics, students must meet the following requirements:

Have a current physical on file in the office.
Have an insurance statement on file in the office.
Have paid the athletic participation fee.
Have read, understand, and sign the athletic code of conduct.

The Junior High athletic teams participate in the SIJHSAA (Southern Illinois Junior School Athletic Association) and are a part of the Junior High Cahokia Conference which consists of small and large school divisions.

The High School athletics Co-Op with Coulterville HS. The High School athletic teams participate in the IHSA (Illinois High School Association) and are a part of the Cahokia Conference. The Cahokia Conference is made up of three divisions: Kaskaskia Division (small), Illinois Division (medium) and Mississippi Division (large).

Extracurriculars (JH & HS)

Junior High: Beta Club, FCA, Heart and Sole, Scholar Bowl, Spring Musical, Student Council,

High School: Art Club, Beta Club, FCA, FFA, Lifesavers, M-Club, Math Team, NHS, Scholar Bowl, Spring Musical, Student Council, Yearbook

Sportsmanship

Students should always back their team with true school spirit and show respect for their school’s reputation. Students strive to maintain favorable relations with opposing teams and schools. Students displaying poor sportsmanship behavior will be asked to leave a game and/or have consequences assigned.

Extra-curricular Offenses

Rule violations at school-sponsored activities will result in the loss of attendance at these activities for 30 calendar days, the rest of the year, or the discretion of the principal. This includes poor sportsmanship such as yelling excessively at the officials. (Regular school rules also apply.)

Code of Conduct

The grounds for disciplinary action also apply whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities, including but not limited to:

On, or within sight of, school grounds before, during, or after school hours or at any time;
Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a reasonable relationship to school;
Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event; or
Anywhere, if the conduct interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the school environment, school operations, or an educational function, including but not limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to (a) be a threat or attempted intimidation of a staff member; or (b) endanger the health or safety of students, staff, or school property.

Requirements for Special Events Participation:

Participation in special events (field trips, school dances, etc) is a privilege. Students may be denied participation in special events when they have been:

● Referred to the administrator for major discipline infractions per semester.

● Absent ten percent of the current school year.

● On the ineligibility list for the week of the event.

● Absent the day prior to the event if the event is held on a weekend.

School Sponsored Activities/Dances

Students attending school-sponsored activities must realize that they will not be permitted to leave and return. A student who leaves any activity is excluded from that activity for the remainder of the evening; furthermore, they must vacate the premises. Guest students at school dances will be subject to the same rules as students. Marissa students who bring a guest to school dances are required to complete a Guest Registry form before the event’s RSVP deadline. Failure to complete the form may result in denial of attendance for guests. Guests over the age of 20 will not be permitted to attend Marissa Jr./Sr. High School dances. Junior High School students are not to attend high school dances as guests but may work as members of the organization or as servers, i.e. homecoming dance, and prom.

Activity/Dance Guidelines

Once students or guests enter the school they must remain inside. If the student or guest goes outside the building, he or she will not be allowed to return without permission from an administrator on duty.
For activities where a guest is permitted, only one guest (per student) may be admitted if accompanied by a student of this school. No guest will be permitted without the proper form being submitted to the office.
State Law prohibits any use of tobacco products, alcohol, drugs, vaping devices/electronic cigarettes on school property.
No one will be permitted to enter the building showing any evidence of having consumed alcohol or drugs. Guilty students will be subject to disciplinary action and potential legal consequences.

Breathalyzer Testing

The administration will determine at which school-sponsored events and extracurricular activities the Breathalyzer test will be used. These events will include but are not limited to, dances, concerts, athletic events, prom, homecoming, etc. Students attending school-sponsored events may be required to take a breathalyzer test prior to entering the event and/or during the event. The administration will determine the manner by which students will be selected for testing: the entire group (e.g. all students attending), random selection (lottery-style, suspiciously), or based on individualized reasonable suspicion. MJSHS Administration reserves the right to test a student based on individualized reasonable suspicion even if the student may have had a negative test result at said event.

1. Any student who tests positive (which will hereafter be defined as any reading above 0.00) will be given a second test after a waiting period of five (5) minutes. Students initially testing positive will be directed to a private screening area for the second breathalyzer test.)

2. If the second test is also positive: (1) the student will be denied entrance to the event, (2) detained by school officials until parents/guardians arrive to take the student home, (3) will receive additional disciplinary measures for the school day and will not be allowed to attend any school-sponsored extracurricular event for one calendar year from the date of the positive testing. Consequences will be assigned in accordance with the District’s general disciplinary policies.

3. If the student has tested positive and the parent or guardian cannot be reached, a district administrator will keep the student in a private location at the event until arrangements can be made to get the student home safely. This may include calling law enforcement officials.

4. If a student refuses to take any breathalyzer test as provided by this policy, he or she will not be admitted to the event and the student’s parent or guardian will be contacted and requested to take the student home. Refusal to submit to the breathalyzer test is a form of insubordination. MJSHS administration may consider the refusal and all other evidence to determine whether or not the student is intoxicated or has consumed alcohol, and impose the same sanctions as if the student tested positive.

5. If any student for which reasonable suspicion exists of intoxication or use of alcohol leaves the scene against an administrator’s request: (1) law enforcement will be contacted immediately, (2) the parent or guardian will be notified, (3) disciplinary action will be taken based on the unique circumstances of the situation.

6. If the breathalyzer test is negative: the student will be admitted to the event and resume activity if the administrator does not have reasonable suspicion regarding the use of other drugs. If the administrator has reasonable suspicion regarding the use of other drugs a thorough investigation will be conducted before the student is admitted.

7. The term “student” also includes all guests of students enrolled at Marissa Jr. Sr. High School. The same testing procedures apply to guests of students. Guests of students testing positive on a breathalyzer test will be denied admittance to the event, and a parent/guardian and/or law enforcement officials will be contacted to transport the guest home safely. If the guest is of school-age, the administrator listed on their guest permission slip will be contacted and notified of the positive test result. The guest will be banned from any future attendance at MJSHS sponsored events. Marissa Jr. Sr. High School students found to have knowingly brought a guest under the influence of alcohol may be subject to disciplinary action.

Student Athlete Concussions and Head Injuries

Student athletes must comply with Illinois’ Youth Sports Concussion Safety Act and all protocols, policies and bylaws of the Illinois High School Association1 before being allowed to participate in any athletic activity, including practice or competition.

A student who was removed from practice or competition because of a suspected concussion shall be allowed to return only after all statutory prerequisites are completed, including without limitation, the School District’s return-to-play and return-to-learn protocols.

Cross-References: PRESS 7:305, Student Athlete Concussions and Head Injuries

Ch. 10 Special Education

Education of Children with Disabilities

It is the intent of the district to ensure that students who are disabled within the definition of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act are identified, evaluated and provided with appropriate educational services.

The School provides a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment and necessary related services to all children with disabilities enrolled in the school. The term “children with disabilities” means children between ages 3 and the day before their 22nd birthday for whom it is determined that special education services are needed, except those children with disabilities who turn 22 years of age during the school year are eligible for special education services through the end of the school year. It is the intent of the school to ensure that students with disabilities are identified, evaluated, and provided with appropriate educational services.

A copy of the publication “Explanation of Procedural Safeguards Available to Parents of Students with Disabilities” may be obtained from the school district office.

Students with disabilities who do not qualify for an individualized education program, as required by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and implementing provisions of this Illinois law, may qualify for services under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 if the student (i) has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, (ii) has a record of a physical or mental impairment, or (iii) is regarded as having a physical or mental impairment.

For further information, please contact:

Superintendent Jeff Strieker, 618-295-2313, 1 E. Marissa St., Marissa, IL 62257

Cross Reference:

PRESS 6:120, Education of Children with Disabilities

PRESS 6:120-AP1,E1 – Exhibit – Notice to Parents/Guardians Regarding Section 504 Rights

Discipline of Students with Disabilities

Behavioral Interventions

Behavioral interventions shall be used with students with disabilities to promote and strengthen desirable behaviors and reduce identified inappropriate behaviors. The School Board will establish and maintain a committee to develop, implement, and monitor procedures on the use of behavioral interventions for children with disabilities.

Discipline of Special Education Students

The District shall comply with the Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 and the Illinois State Board of Education’s Special Education rules when disciplining special education students. No special education student shall be expelled if the student’s particular act of gross disobedience or misconduct is a manifestation of his or her disability.

Isolated Time Out, Time Out, and Physical Restraint

Isolated time out, time out, and physical restraint shall only be used if the student’s behavior presents an imminent danger of serious physical harm to the student or others, and other less restrictive and intrusive measures were tried and proven ineffective in stopping it. The School may not use isolated time out, time out, or physical restraint as discipline or punishment, convenience for staff, retaliation, as a substitute for appropriate educational or behavioral support, a routine safety matter, or to prevent property damage in the absence of imminent danger of serious physical harm to the student or others. The use of prone restraint is prohibited.

Cross Reference:

PRESS 7:190-AP4, Administrative Procedure – Use of Isolated Time Out, Time Out, and Physical Restraint

PRESS 7:230, Misconduct by Students with Disabilities

Exemption From Physical Education Requirement

A student who is eligible for special education may be excused from physical education courses in either of the following situations:

He or she (a) is in grades 3-12, (b) his or her IEP requires that special education support and services be provided during physical education time, and (c) the parent/guardian agrees or the IEP team makes the determination; or
He or she (a) has an IEP, (b) is participating in an adaptive athletic program outside of the school setting, and (c) the parent/guardian documents the student’s participation as required by the Superintendent or designee.

A student requiring adapted physical education will receive that service in accordance with the student’s Individualized Education Program.

Cross Reference:

PRESS 6:310, High School Credit for Non-District Experiences; Course Substitutions; Re-Entering Students

Certificate of High School Completion

A student with a disability who has an Individualized Education Program prescribing special education, transition planning, transition services, or related services beyond the student’s 4 years of high school, qualifies for a certificate of completion after the student has completed 4 years of high school. The student is encouraged to participate in the graduation ceremony of his or her high school graduation class.

Cross Reference:

PRESS 6:300, Graduation Requirements

Request to Access Classroom or Personnel for Special Education Evaluation or Observation

The parent/guardian of a student receiving special education services, or being evaluated for eligibility, is afforded reasonable access to educational facilities, personnel, classrooms, and buildings. This same right of access is afforded to an independent educational evaluator or a qualified professional retained by or on behalf of a parent or child.

For further information, please contact the building principal.

Cross Reference:

PRESS 6:120, Education of Children with Disabilities

PRESS 6:120-AP2,E1 – Exhibit – Request to Access Classroom(s) or Personnel for Special Education Evaluation and/or Observation Purposes

Related Service Logs

For a child with an individualized education program (IEP), the school district must create related service logs that record the type of related services administered under the child’s IEP and the minutes of each type of related service that has been administered. The school will provide a child’s parent/guardian a copy of the related service log at the annual review of the child’s IEP and at any other time upon request.

Cross Reference: PRESS 7:340-AP1, School Student Records

PUNS (Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services) Database Information for Students and Parents or Guardians

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) maintains a statewide database known as the PUNS database (Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services) that records information about individuals with intellectual disabilities or developmental disabilities who are potentially in need of services.

IDHS uses the data on PUNS to select individuals for services as funding becomes available, to develop proposals and materials for budgeting, and to plan for future needs. The PUNS database is available for children with intellectual disabilities or developmental disabilities with unmet service needs.

Registration to be included on the PUNS database is the first step toward receiving developmental disabilities services in this State. A child who is not on the PUNS database will not be in the queue for State developmental disabilities services.

For more information and to sign up for PUNS, see the Illinois Department of Human Services PUNS information page at https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=41131.

CH. 11 Student Records and Privacy

Student Privacy Protections

Surveys

All surveys requesting personal information from students, as well as any other instrument used to collect personal information from students, must advance or relate to the District’s educational objectives, or assist students’ career choices. This applies to all surveys, regardless of whether the student answering the questions can be identified or who created the survey.

Surveys by Third Parties

Before a school official or staff member administers or distributes a survey or evaluation created by a third party to a student, the student’s parent/guardian may inspect the survey or evaluation, upon their request and within a reasonable time of their request. This applies to every survey: (1) that is created by a person or entity other than a district official, staff member, or student, (2) regardless of whether the student answering the questions can be identified, and (3) regardless of the subject matter of the questions.

Parents who object to disclosure of information concerning their child to a third party may do so in writing to the Building Principal.

Surveys Requesting Personal Information

School officials and staff members will not request, nor disclose, the identity of any student who completes any survey or evaluation (created by any person or entity, including the school or district) containing one or more of the following items:

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent/guardian.

2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family.

3. Behavior or attitudes about sex.

4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.

5. Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom students have close family relationships.

6. Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those with lawyers, physicians, and ministers.

7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent/guardian.

8. Income other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program.

The student’s parent/guardian may: (1) inspect the survey or evaluation upon, and within a reasonable time of, their request, and/or (2) refuse to allow their child to participate in the survey. The school will not penalize any student whose parent/guardian exercised this option.

Instructional Material

A student’s parent/guardian may inspect, upon their request, any instructional material used as part of their child’s educational curriculum within a reasonable time of their request.

The term “instructional material” means instructional content that is provided to a student, regardless of its format, printed or representational materials, audio-visual materials, and materials in electronic or digital formats (such as materials accessible through the Internet). The term does not include academic tests or academic assessments.

Prohibition on Selling or Marketing Students’ Personal Information

No school official or staff member may market or sell personal information concerning students (or otherwise provide that information to others for that purpose). The term personal information means individually identifiable information including: (1) a student or parent’s first and last name, (2) a home or other physical address (including street name and the name of the city or town), (3) a telephone number, (4) a Social Security identification number or (5) driver’s license number or State identification card.

Unless otherwise prohibited by law, the above paragraph does not apply:

(1) if the student’s parent/guardian have consented; or

(2) to the collection, disclosure or, use of personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating or providing educational products or services for, or to, students or educational institutions, such as the following:

College or other postsecondary education recruitment, or military recruitment.
Book clubs, magazines, and programs providing access to low-cost literary products.

3. Curriculum and instructional materials used by elementary schools and secondary schools.

4. Tests and assessments to provide cognitive, evaluative, diagnostic, clinical, aptitude, or

achievement information about students (or to generate other statistically useful data for the

purpose of securing such tests and assessments) and the subsequent analysis and public release

of the aggregate data from such tests and assessments.

5. The sale by students of products or services to raise funds for school-related or education-related

activities.

6. Student recognition programs.

Under no circumstances may a school official or staff member provide a student’s personal information to a business organization or financial institution that issues credit or debit cards

A parent/guardian who desires to opt their child out of participation in activities provided herein or who desires a copy or access to a survey or any other material described herein may contact the Building Principal.

The school expects to administer the following surveys that request personal student information on the following approximate dates:[1]

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A complete copy of the District’s Student and Family Privacy Rights policy may be obtained from the Superintendent’s office or accessed on the District’s website.

Cross-References:

PRESS 7:15, Student and Family Privacy Rights

PRESS 7:15-E, Notification to Parents of Family Privacy Rights

Student Records

A school student record is any writing or other recorded information concerning a student and by which a student may be identified individually that is maintained by a school or at its direction or by a school employee, regardless of how or where the information is stored, except for certain records kept in a staff member’s sole possession; records maintained by law enforcement officers working in the school; video and other electronic recordings (including electronic recordings made on school busses) that are created in part for law enforcement, security, or safety reasons or purposes, though such electronic recordings may become a student record if the content is used for disciplinary or special education purposes regarding a particular student.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Illinois Student Records Act afford parents/guardians and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s school records. They are:

The right to inspect and copy the student’s education records within 10 business days of the day the District receives a request for access.

The degree of access a student has to his or her records depends on the student’s age. Students less than 18 years of age have the right to inspect and copy only their permanent record. Students 18 years of age or older have access and copy rights to both permanent and temporary records. A parent/guardian or student should submit to the building principal a written request that identifies the record(s) he or she wishes to inspect. Within 10 business days, the building principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent/guardian or student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. In certain circumstances, the District may request an additional 5 business days in which to grant access. The District charges $.35 per page for copying but no one will be denied their right to copies of their records for inability to pay this cost. These rights are denied to any person against whom an order of protection has been entered concerning the student.

The right to have one or more scores received on college entrance examinations included on the student’s academic transcript.

Parents/guardians or eligible students may have one or more scores on college entrance examinations included on the student’s academic transcript. The District will include scores on college entrance examinations upon the written request of the parent/guardian or eligible student stating the name of each college entrance examination that is the subject of the request and the dates of the scores that are to be included.

The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent/ guardian or eligible student believes are inaccurate, irrelevant, or improper.

A parent/guardian or eligible student may ask the District to amend a record that is believed to be inaccurate, irrelevant, or improper. Requests should be sent to the building principal and should clearly identify the record the parent/guardian or eligible student wants changed and the specific reason a change is being sought. If the District decides not to amend the record, the District will notify the parent/guardian or eligible student of the decision and advise him or her of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent/guardian or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

The right to permit disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the FERPA or Illinois School Student Records Act authorizes disclosure without consent.

Disclosure without consent is permitted to school officials with legitimate educational or administrative interests. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board. A school official may also include a volunteer, contractor, or consultant who, while not employed by the school, performs an institutional service or function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of personally identifiable information from education records (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, therapist, or educational technology vendor); or any parent/guardian or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility or contractual obligation with the district. Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student has enrolled or intends to enroll, as well as to any person as specifically required by State or federal law. Before information is released to these individuals, the parents/guardians or eligible student will receive prior written notice of the nature and substance of the information, and an opportunity to inspect, copy, and challenge such records. Academic grades and references to expulsions or out-of-school suspensions cannot be challenged at the time a student’s records are being forwarded to another school to which the student is transferring. Disclosure is also permitted without consent to: any person for research, statistical reporting or planning, provided that no student or parent/guardian can be identified; any person named in a court order; appropriate persons if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other persons; and juvenile authorities when necessary for the discharge of their official duties who request information before adjudication of the student.

The right to a copy of any school student record proposed to be destroyed or deleted.

The permanent record is maintained for at least 60 years after the student transfers, graduates, or permanently withdraws. The temporary record is maintained for at least 5 years after the student transfers, graduates, or permanently withdraws. Temporary records that may be of assistance to a student with a disability who graduates or permanently withdraws, may, after 5 years, be transferred to the parent/guardian or to the student, if the student has succeeded to the rights of the parent/guardian. Student temporary records are reviewed every 4 years or upon a student’s change in attendance centers, whichever occurs first.

The right to prohibit the release of directory information.

Throughout the school year, the District may release directory information regarding students, limited to:

Name
Address
Grade level
Birth date and place
Parent/guardian names, addresses, electronic mail addresses, and telephone numbers
Photographs, videos, or digital images used for informational or news-related purposes (whether by a media outlet or by the school) of a student participating in school or school-sponsored activities, organizations, and athletics that have appeared in school publications, such as yearbooks, newspapers, or sporting or fine arts programs
Academic awards, degrees, and honors
Information in relation to school-sponsored activities, organizations, and athletics
Major field of study
Period of attendance in school Any parent/guardian or eligible student may prohibit the release of any or all of the above information by delivering a written objection to the building principal within 30 days of the date of this notice.

The right to request that military recruiters or institutions of higher learning not be granted access to your student’s information without your prior written consent.

Federal law requires a secondary school to grant military recruiters and institutions of higher learning, upon their request, access to secondary school students’ names, addresses, and telephone numbers, unless the student’s parent/guardian, or student who is 18 years of age or older, submits a written request that the information not be released without the prior written consent of the parent/guardian or eligible student. If you wish to exercise this option, notify the building principal.

The right contained in this statement: No person may condition the granting or withholding of any right, privilege or benefits or make as a condition of employment, credit, or insurance the securing by any individual of any information from a student’s temporary record which such individual may obtain through the exercise of any right secured under State law.
The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA.The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

U.S. Department of Education
Student Privacy Policy Office
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington DC 20202-8520

Cross-References: PRESS 7:340, Student Records

Student Biometric Information

Before collecting biometric information from students, the school must seek the permission of the student’s parent/guardian or the student, if over the age of 18. Biometric information means information that is collected from students based on their unique characters, such as a fingerprint, voice recognition or retinal scan.

Cross-reference:

PRESS 7:340, Student Records

Requests from Military or Institutions of Higher Learning

Upon their request, military recruiters and institutions of higher learning will be given access to students’ names, addresses and telephone numbers. Parents who do not want their child’s name to be released (or students over the age of 18 who do not want their name released) should contact the building principal.

Cross-reference:

PRESS 7:340, Student Records

CH. 12 PARENTAL RIGHTS NOTIFICATION

Teacher Qualifications

Parents/guardians may request information about the qualifications of their student’s teachers and paraprofessionals, including:

Whether the teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction;
Whether the teacher is teaching under an emergency or other provisional status through which State qualification and licensing criteria have been waived;
Whether the teacher is teaching in a field of discipline of the teacher’s certification;
Whether any instructional aides or paraprofessionals provide services to your student and, if so, their qualifications.

If you would like to receive any of this information, please contact the school office.

Cross-References:

PRESS 5:190, Teacher Qualifications

PRESS 5:190-E1, Notice to Parents of Their Right to Request Their Child’s Classroom Teachers’ Qualifications

Standardized Testing

Students and parents/guardians should be aware that the State and District require students to take certain standardized tests, including the following: IAR, PSAT/SAT

Parents/Guardians are encouraged to cooperate in preparing students for the standardized testing, because the quality of the education the school can provide is partially dependent upon the school’s ability to continue to prove its success in the state’s standardized tests. Parents/Guardians can assist their students to achieve their best performance by doing the following:

Encourage students to work hard and study throughout the year;
Ensure students get a good night’s sleep during the night before exams;
Ensure students eat well the morning of the exam, particularly ensuring they eat sufficient protein;
Remind students and emphasize the importance of good performance on standardized testing;
Ensure students are on time and prepared for tests, with appropriate materials;
Teach students the importance of honesty and ethics during the performance of these and other tests;
Encourage students to relax on testing day.

Cross-Reference: PRESS 6:340, Student Testing and Assessment Programs

Homeless Child’s Right to Education

When a child loses permanent housing and becomes a homeless person as defined at law, or when a homeless child changes his or her temporary living arrangements, the parent or guardian of the homeless child has the option of either:

continuing the child’s education in the school of origin for as long as the child remains homeless or, if the child becomes permanently housed, until the end of the academic year during which the housing is acquired; or
enrolling the child in any school that non-homeless students who live in the attendance area in which the child or youth is actually living are eligible to attend.

Please contact the Superintendent’s office with questions regarding the education of homeless students.

Family Life and Sex Education Classes

Students will not be required to take or participate in any class or courses in comprehensive sex education, including in grades 6-12, instruction on both abstinence and contraception for the prevention of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS; family life instruction, including in grades 6-12, instruction on the prevention, transmission, and spread of AIDS; instruction on diseases; recognizing and avoiding sexual abuse; or instruction on donor programs for organ/tissue, blood donor, and transplantation, if his or her parent or guardian submits a written objection. The parent or guardian’s decision will not be the reason for any student discipline, including suspension or expulsion. Nothing in this Section prohibits instruction in sanitation, hygiene or traditional courses in biology.

Parents or guardians may examine the instructional materials to be used in any district sex education class or course.

Cross-References:

PRESS 6:60-AP1, Comprehensive Health Education Program

PRESS 6:60-AP1, E1, Notice to Parents/Guardians of Sexual Abuse and Assault Awareness and Prevention Education; Requests to Examine Materials; Written Objection(s) and/or Opt-outs

English Learners

The school offers opportunities for resident English Learners to achieve at high levels in academic subjects and to meet the same challenging State standards that all children are expected to meet.

Parents/Guardians of English Learners will be informed how they can: (1) be involved in the education of their children; (2) be active participants in assisting their children to attain English proficiency, achieve at high levels within a well-rounded education, and meet the challenging State academic standards expected of all students; and (3) participate and serve on the District’s Transitional Bilingual Education Programs Parent Advisory Committee.

For questions related to this program or to express input in the school’s English Learners program, contact the building principal.

Cross Reference: 6:160, English Learners

School Visitation Rights

The School Visitation Rights Act permits employed parents/guardians, who are unable to meet with educators because of a work conflict, the right to time off from work under certain conditions to attend necessary school functions such as parent-teacher conferences, academic meetings and behavioral meetings. Letters verifying participation in this program are available from the school office upon request.

Cross-Reference:

PRESS 8:95-E1, Letter Notifying Parents/Guardians of School Visitation Rights

PRESS 8:95-E2, Verification of School Visitation

Pesticide Application Notice

The district maintains a registry of parents/guardians of students who have registered to receive written or telephone notification prior to the application of pesticides to school grounds. To be added to the list, please contact:

Superintendent

1 E. Marissa St.

Marissa, IL 62257

618-295-2313

Notification will be given before application of the pesticide. Prior notice is not required if there is imminent threat to health or property.

Cross-Reference: PRESS 4:160-AP, Environmental Quality of Buildings and Grounds

ASBESTOS OPERATION & MAINTENANCE PLAN

This document is available at the central office upon request.

Mandated Reporter

All school personnel, including teachers and administrators, are required by law to immediately report any and all suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.

Cross Reference: PRESS 5:90, Abused and Neglected Child Reporting

Unsafe School Choice Option

The unsafe school choice option provided in State law permits students to transfer to another school within the District in certain situations. This transfer option is unavailable in this District because the District has only one school or attendance center. A student, who would otherwise have qualified for the choice option, or the student’s parent/guardian, may request special accommodations from the building principal.

Student Privacy

The District has adopted and uses several policies and procedures regarding student privacy, parental access to information and administration of certain physical examinations to students. Copies of these policies are available upon request.

Cross-References: PRESS 6:170-AP2, Notice to Parents Required by Elementary and Secondary Education, McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance, and Protection of Pupil Rights Laws

Sex Offender Notification Law

State law prohibits a convicted child sex offender from being present on school property when children under the age of 18 are present, except for in the following circumstances as they relate to the individual’s child(ren):

To attend a conference at the school with school personnel to discuss the progress of their child.
To participate in a conference in which evaluation and placement decisions may be made with respect to their child’s special education services.
To attend conferences to discuss issues concerning their child, such as retention or promotion.

In all other cases, convicted child sex offenders are prohibited from being present on school property unless they obtain written permission from the superintendent or school board.

Anytime that a convicted child sex offender is present on school property for any reason – including the three reasons above – he/she is responsible for notifying the principal’s office upon arrival on school property and upon departure from school property. It is the responsibility of the convicted child sex offender to remain under the direct supervision of a school official at all times he/she is in the presence or vicinity of children.

A violation of this law is a Class 4 felony.

Information about sex offenders or violent offenders against youth is available to the public on the Illinois State Police (ISP) website.

The ISP website contains the following:

Illinois Sex Offender Registry, https://isp.illinois.gov/Sor/Disclaimer
Illinois Murderer and Violent Offender Against Youth Registry, https://isp.illinois.gov/MVOAY/Disclaimer
Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Sex Offenders, https://isp.illinois.gov/Sor/FAQs

Cross-References: PRESS 4:175-AP1, Criminal Offender Notification Laws; Screening

PRESS 4:175-AP1, E1, Exhibit – Informing Parents/Guardians About Offender Community Notifications Laws

Accident Insurance

There is an opportunity for parents to purchase student accident insurance. Information can be found at https://www.insuranceforstudents.com/k-12/insurance. It should be understood that the school does not endorse the insurance plan. Each family must determine its need in relation to other insurance coverage.

Student/Parent Concern Procedure

Students and/or parents who have concerns about a school policy or an employee should follow the procedure outlined below in order to resolve the problem as quickly as possible:

When contacting your school, the best place to begin is with the person(s) directly involved.

If the problem still exists, contact the principal.
If still unresolved, contact the superintendent.
Finally, if unresolved, ask the superintendent to place the complaint on the following month's Board of Education agenda for further discussion.

Equal Rights

Marissa Community School District #40, St. Clair County, Illinois provides vocational and educational opportunities for all students who are residents of the district without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, language barrier, ancestry, ethnicity, economic and social conditions, actual or potential marital or parental status, or physical and mental handicap or disability. MCUSD recognizes that students may have special needs that come under the categories of State of Illinois IDEA or United Stats 504 mandate, and MCUSD will address these needs to the limit of the school’s abilities. Students, parents, guardians, employees, or community members should notify the District Superintendent or Complaint Manager if they believe that the School Board, its employees, or agents have violated their rights guaranteed by the State or federal Constitution, State or federal statute, or Board policy or have a complaint regarding:

Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act;
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972;
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973;
Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C. @ 1400 et seq.;
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, 42 U.S.C. @ 2000d et seq.;
Equal Employment Opportunities Act (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act), 42 U.S.C. @ 2000e et seq.
Sexual harassment (Illinois Human Rights Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972);
The misuse of funds received for services to improve educational opportunities for educationally disadvantaged or deprived children;
Curriculum, instructional materials, programs;
Provision of services to homeless students.

The Complaint Manager will attempt to resolve complaints without resorting to this grievance procedure and, if a complaint is filed, to address the complaint promptly and equitably. The right of a person to prompt and equitable resolution of a complaint filed hereunder shall not be impaired by the person’s pursuit of other remedies. Use of this grievance procedure is not a prerequisite to the pursuit of other remedies and use of this grievance procedure does not extend any filing deadline related to the pursuit of other remedies.

Filing a Complaint – A person (hereinafter Complainant) who wishes to avail him or herself of this grievance procedure may do so by filing a complaint with any District Complaint Manager. The Complainant shall not be required to file a complaint with a particular Complaint Manager and may request a Complaint Manager of the same sex. The Complaint Manager may request the Complainant to provide a written statement regarding the nature of the complaint or require a meeting with the parent(s)/guardian(s) of a student. The Complaint Manager shall assist the Complainant as needed.
Investigation – The Complaint Manager will investigate the complaint or appoint a qualified person to undertake the investigation on his or her behalf. The complaint and identity of the Complainant will not be disclosed except (1) as required by law or this policy, or (2) as necessary to fully investigate the complaint, or (3) as authorized by the Complainant. Within 10 school days of the date the complaint was filed, the Complaint Manager shall file a written report of his or her findings with the Superintendent. The Complaint Manager may request an extension of time. If a complaint of sexual harassment contains allegations involving the Superintendent, the written report shall be filed with the School Board, which will make a decision in accordance with Section 3 of this Policy. The Superintendent will keep the Board informed of all complaints.
Decision and Appeal – Within 5 school days after receiving the Complaint Manager’s report, the Superintendent shall mail his or her written decision to the Complainant by U.S. mail, first-class, as well as the Complaint Manager. Within 5 school days after receiving the Superintendent’s decision, the Complainant may appeal the decision to the School Board by making a written request to the Complaint Manager. The Complaint Manager shall promptly forward all materials relative to the complaint and appeal to the School Board. Within 10 school days, the School Board shall affirm, reverse, or amend the Superintendent’s decision or direct the Superintendent to gather additional information for the Board. Within 5 school days of the Board’s decision, the Superintendent shall inform the Complainant of the Board’s action.

This grievance procedure shall not be construed to create an independent right to a School Board hearing. The failure to strictly follow the timelines in this grievance procedure shall not prejudice any party.

SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcusd40/

MHS SCHOOL SONG

We’re loyal to you Marissa High.

To our colors, we’re true Marissa High.

We’ll back you to stand against the best in

the land,

For we know you have sand Marissa High

(rah, rah).

So shoot for that goal Marissa High.

We’re backing you old Marissa High.

Our team is our fame protector

on boys for we expect a Victory from you

Marissa High (rah, rah).

Chee Haw, Chee Haw Haw.

Marissa High School Rah-Rah-Rah

Chee Haw, Chee Haw Haw.

Marissa High School Rah-Rah-Rah

Marissa High, Marissa High, Marissa High

Bring out that dear old flag of orange and black.

Lead on your sons and daughters never turn back.

Like men of old on giants facing reliance,

Shouting defiance Oskee-Wa-Wa!

Amid the broad, green plains that nourish the land.

For honest labor and for learning we stand.