Disclaimer: During the school year, the Student Handbook policies and procedures are subject to change pursuant to Executive Orders, State of Michigan mandates, Tekonsha Board of Education action, and/or changes in law. It is not intended to be all-encompassing, and does not create a contract between the school and parents or students. School officials are responsible for interpreting the handbook and if a situation is not specifically addressed, the school will make decisions based on staff discretion, applicable board policies, and state and federal statutes and regulations, consistent with the school’s best interests.

Section 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

DISTRICT VISION STATEMENT

The Tekonsha Community School District will be a community excelling in life-long learners, incorporating partnerships in education, and working collaboratively to develop caring, competent, responsible, well-educated citizens.

DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT

The Tekonsha Community School District is committed to providing a safe secure environment that fosters the love of learning in which individuals can realize their full potential

PHILOSOPHY OF THE SCHOOL

All students of Tekonsha Community Schools must understand the general principles which guide the administration of their school. Decisions, which affect you, will be determined largely with these general principles as a guide.

One of the main purposes of the public school is to develop good mental, physical, social, and emotional values in its youth that will build moral and ethical character consistent with a democratic society.
All students have a right to an education. Students should have a part in determining the content and activities that constitute their school experience.
Each student should have the opportunity to become well trained in the academic fundamentals, have access to vocational training, and receive assistance to graduate as well-rounded citizens.
The school should give every assistance possible to each student in analyzing his or her aptitudes, abilities, and adjustments to society.
The entire staff is committed to improving the school through the use of proper outcomes for its graduates. The entire staff of Tekonsha Community Schools is here to prepare our youth for the 21st Century. We are constantly striving to give the students of the community the best educational opportunity available. We encourage students to get involved in all aspects of learning; this will allow them to develop good physical, mental, social and emotional traits. To fulfill these goals we need everyone to strive for excellence throughout their school years.

THE STUDENT AND THE COMMUNITY

All pupils at Tekonsha represent their school wherever and whenever they are in the community. Your citizenship and attitude, therefore, reflect not only upon you as an individual, but also upon your fellow students.

Your conduct, manners, personal habits, language, and dress are important examples of the types of things that reflect your attitude toward our school and community. You are expected, consequently, to contribute to the continued growth of the school and the community by exercising behavior, in all of these areas, that is appropriate in an educational situation.

Section 2: SCHOOL DAY SCHEDULE

ELEMENTARY FULL DAY SCHEDULE ELEMENTARY

Doors Open	7:50 am
All Classes Begin	8:00 am
LUNCH	Kindergarten 11:00 am - 11:25 am 1st Grade 11:05 am - 11:30 am 2nd Grade 11:10 am - 11:35 am 3rd - 5th Grade 11:45 am - 12:10 pm
School Dismissal	2:50 pm

HS/MS FULL DAY SCHEDULE

Doors Open	7:50 am
1st Hour (HS & MS)	8:00 am - 8:56 am
2nd Hour (HS & MS)	9:00 am - 9:51 am
3rd Hour (HS & MS)	9:55 am - 10:46 am
HS LUNCH	10:46 am - 11:11 am
4th Hour (MS only)	10:50 am - 11:41 am
4th Hour (HS only)	11:15 am - 12:06 pm
MS LUNCH	11:41 am - 12:06 pm
5th Hour (HS & MS)	12:10 pm - 1:01 pm
6th Hour (HS & MS)	1:05 pm - 1:56 pm
7th Hour (HS & MS)	2:00 pm - 2:50 pm
School Dismissal	2:50 pm

HALF-DAY SCHEDULE

All half-days are posted on the annual calendar. All students will report at their normal times at 8 am. In the elementary, students will follow their normal classroom routines. In the MS/HS, students will attend their 1st - 3rd hour classes, with all students (6-12) reporting immediately to their 4th hour classes. All students will be provided with a sack lunch between 11 am and 11:30 am, with full school dismissal at 11:30 am.

STUDENT SUPERVISION BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL

Tekonsha Community Schools will provide supervision during school hours, 10 minutes prior to the start of the school day and 5 minutes at the end of the school day. Unless students are participating in a school activity, school staff will not provide supervision before or after these times. Students that do not have a practice or activity IMMEDIATELY after school should not remain at school unsupervised.

CACC & BCAMSC SCHEDULE

Students attending the Calhoun Area Career Center (CACC) will be dismissed at 10:38 for HS lunch. Bus transportation to the CACC is provided, with the bus leaving at 11:00 am. Students return from the CACC at approximately 3:30 pm, after the regular school dismissal. There is no additional bus transportation home for CACC students.

If there is a NO SCHOOL day at Tekonsha, this will be communicated to the CACC and BCAMSC. Students that choose not to attend are listed as an excused absence. However, students must note that if there is school happening at either location, it is recommended that they attend, and students should know that they are responsible for any missed work for the other programs. Each program will provide students with their own calendar of school days. If either program has no school, Tekonsha students may sign out with parent permission to go home during their scheduled CACC/BCAMSC hours.

Section 3: SCHOOL CONTACT INFORMATION

SCHOOL INFORMATION

Tekonsha Jr./Sr. High School

245 S. Elm Street, Tekonsha, MI 49092

Tekonsha Elementary School

327 Catherine Street, Tekonsha, MI 49092

PHONE: 517-767-4121

FAX: 517-767-4135

WEBSITE: www.tekonshaschools.org

ADMINISTRATION AND KEY PERSONNEL

Superintendent/K-12 Principal

Mrs. JoEllen O’Keefe

okeefej@tekonsha.k12.mi.us

767- 4121 Ext. 101

HS/MS Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Trisha Blashfield

tblashfield@tekonsha.k12.mi.us

767-4121 Ext. 100

Elementary Dean of Students/Athletic Director/Special Education Coordinator/

Mrs. Aryn Henry

henrya@tekonsha.k12.mi.us

767-4121 Ext. 301

Elementary Administrative Assistant

Ms. Heather Mack

mackh@tekonsha.k12.mi.us

767-4121 Ext. 300

Transportation

767-4121 Ext. 350

Kohn Sutton, suttonk@tekonsha.k12.mi.us (Transportation Coordinator)

John Whitney, whitneyj@tekonsha.k12.mi.us

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Parent-teacher conferences are held each semester. It is the hope of the administration and faculty that parents will take advantage of the opportunity to review the progress of their children.

Section 4: SAFETY INFORMATION

CLOSED CAMPUS / LEAVING THE BUILDING

Tekonsha Community Schools is a closed campus. Students may not leave the school property without written parent permission at any time during the school day. All students leaving with parental permission must sign out at the office before physically leaving the school building. If a student leaves without following the above procedure, they will receive an unexcused absence and will be subject to disciplinary action.

VISITORS TO THE BUILDING

All building entrances and exits are locked at all times during the school day. Visitors must report to the high school office immediately upon being allowed into the building. Family members or other guests will have limited access for entrance in the school building except under academically necessary circumstances determined by district and school officials. All guests will be required to sign in and sign out, including date and time, when entering and exiting the building, and wear a visitor badge while in the building, if not escorted by a school staff member.

STUDENT DRIVING and PARKING LOT

School administration is authorized to develop rules for student driving and parking lot use. Students driving to school must park along Elm Street and follow all posted speed limits and road ordinances. All vehicles are to yield to school buses. Tekonsha Community Schools assumes no responsibility for damage to student vehicles, and all parking areas are used at the vehicle owner's risk.

A student who operates a school vehicle on school property is considered to have given consent to a search of the vehicle with or without cause by school officials or law enforcement. A parent or guardian who grants permission for their student to operate a vehicle on school property is also considered to have given such consent to search for the vehicle. Law enforcement canine units may be used in the search.

Students leaving to attend the Calhoun Area Career Center (CACC) may drive their own vehicle, but they must have a signed CACC Permission to Drive form on file with the high school office. Students wishing to ride with a student driver must have a CACC Permission to Ride form on file with the high school office. Failure to follow the rules and procedures could result in a loss of driving privileges as well as possible further disciplinary action.

MEDICATION USE

Students requiring medication, whether self-administered or staff administered, are expected to comply with all Board policies and directives prior to the use, transport, or possession of any medications (prescribed or over the counter.). Over-the-counter medication can only be administered from a school staff member from the building office for students with parents that have given permission on the Parent/Guardian Permissions & Acknowledgements form.

CAMERAS

Tekonsha Community Schools has security cameras on school property and all school buses for the primary purpose of safety, reducing disciplinary problems, and addressing vandalism. Cameras throughout the district are recording at all times. Disciplinary action and/or criminal charges may be initiated based on video documentation. Information contained within the surveillance system may be released to the Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority. The information/images contained in these recordings are considered student directory information and this handbook serves as notification to parents of the possibility of such release. Students that tamper with any security device will be subject to disciplinary action.

SAFETY DRILLS

Tornado, fire, and school lockdown drills are very important exercises designated to maximize student safety. In the event of a tornado drill, students will move to a designated area, refrain from talking, and remain until the all-clear signal. In the event of a fire drill, students will wait until the announcement to evacuate the building, follow exit instructions as designated, refrain from talking, and proceed walking to a distance at least 100 feet from the point of exit. In the event of a lockdown drill, students are expected to listen to and follow the directions given by school staff. The district will provide the following practice drills each year:

Fire Drills = 5 (3 drills must be scheduled prior to December 1st)
Lockdown Drills = 3 (1 drill scheduled prior to December 1st, 1 drill scheduled after January 1st)
Tornado Drills = 2 (One scheduled during the month of March)

SCHOOL CLOSINGS and DELAYS

In case of inclement weather, school may be closed or have a delayed start time to provide for safe travel conditions for school buses. Closings and/or delays will be communicated in the following places:

Sent out through the School Messenger call-out system
Posted on the district website at www.tekonshaschools.org
Posted on the district Facebook page
Posted on local television and radio stations (WOOD TV 8, WWMT 3, WNWN)

If a tornado warning is received while school is in session, students will be moved to the designated safety location. Students will remain at school until the Weather Bureau issues an all clear or until weather conditions improve sufficiently for dismissal. Under extreme circumstances, school may dismiss early to safely send students home prior to the onset of dangerous weather conditions. Parents are encouraged to discuss their expectations with students should an early dismissal occur. Each student needs to know exactly what he/she is to do if such a situation should arise. Parent notifications will be sent out through the School Messenger system and via social media.

STUDENT ILLNESS

When school staff determine that a student is too ill or injured to remain at school, school staff will contact the student’s parent/guardian or other designated responsible adult to pick the student up from school. If the student requires immediate medical attention, the District will first attempt to contact a parent/guardian when reasonably possible. If contact cannot be made, the building administrator will take any reasonable action necessary on the student’s behalf, consistent with state law.

INJURY REPORT

Any student who has an injury in school must report it to the teacher if it happened in the classroom. If the injury occurs at any other time of the school day, it should be reported to the main office. An accident report will be taken and kept on file.

Section 5: ACADEMIC INFORMATION

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS - 24 Credits

All students at Tekonsha High School are required to complete a minimum of 24 total credits to qualify for a diploma.

4 English
3 Social Studies

Government/Economics, World History & Geography, US History & Geography

3 Science

Chemistry or Physics, Biology, & Science of your choice

4 Math

Algebra, Algebra II, Geometry and math in senior year

2 Language Other Than English
½ Physical Education
1 Visual, Performing, or Applied Arts
½ Health
½ Personal Finance
6 credits of Electives

There are some substitutions allowed with the Michigan Merit Curriculum, and these will be done on a case-by-case basis. Students and parents are also entitled to request a personal curriculum. A personal curriculum option can be used to modify the Michigan Merit Curriculum requirements. For a full description of all academic courses and expectations, please review the Educational Planning Guide.

All graduating seniors are required to complete and submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as a graduation requirement or submit a signed Universal FAFSA Waiver documenting the student's eligible exemption.

GRADE POINT AVERAGE (HS Only)

A student’s Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated based on the following grade value system. GPA is calculated cumulatively, based on a student’s final semester grades.

A+ 4.33	B- 2.67	D 1.00
A 4.00	C+ 2.33	D- 0.67
A- 3.67	C 2.00	E 0.00 (No Credit Given)
B+ 3.33	C- 1.67
B 3.00	D+ 1.33

Teachers can also assign a student a credit with no grade if the student is working to one’s capacity but has not met the requirements for a D grade. This is done very infrequently and is at the teacher’s discretion. A credit with no grade does not calculate as part of a student’s GPA.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards will be issued twice each semester, with marking period reports issued halfway through the semester, and a semester report card will be issued at the conclusion of the semester. In high school, grades are calculated with each marking period as 45% of the grade for a total of 90% and a semester exam as 10% of the final grade. All grades for all students will be posted in Skyward.

FINAL EXAMS (HS Only)

All students are expected to complete all final exams during the scheduled times. Early exams will not be offered without prior approval from administration.

PARENT/STUDENT ACCESS TO SKYWARD

Tekonsha Community Schools uses a web-based program to track all student attendance and grades, called Skyward. Parents can access their account at www.tekonshaschools.org under the “Families” tab and “Family Resources.” Parents that need access to their student’s Skyward account can contact the high school office. Parents are encouraged to check this daily.

HONOR ROLL and CITIZENSHIP (HS/MS Only)

Students who attain grades of all B- or better for a grading period will be placed on the honor roll. Students are encouraged to not only excel in academics but to show that they are able to handle proper behavior, attitude, and character in the school environment. Teachers may choose to award students citizenship scores on their report cards using the following scale:

Excellent
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Poor

HONOR STUDENTS (HS/MS Only)

Honor students are ranked after the seventh semester of their senior year. A student must have a 3.00 cumulative GPA or better through seven semesters to be an honor student. All classes are used for ranking. Also after the seventh semester of the senior year, the highest GPA of the senior class will be given Valedictorian status, and the second highest will be named the Salutatorian.

ADDING and DROPPING A CLASS (HS/MS Only)

All class changes must be made by the announced drop/add deadline for each semester. Any changes made after that need to be made with counselor, parent, and administrator approval.

VIRTUAL LEARNING (HS/MS Only)

Students in grades 6-12 may request a fully virtual schedule. Students must not have failed a virtual course in the same subject during the two most recent academic years and the request for virtual learning must be made within the timelines established for enrollment and schedule changes. Students that elect fully-virtual learning may not return to in-person learning until the start of the next semester. All fully virtual students must complete a Full-Time Virtual Learning Commitment Form

DUAL ENROLLMENT (HS Only)

Students in grades 9-12 may request to participate in dual enrollment, in which students are able to take college classes to earn high school credit, college credit, or both. Students must meet minimum testing requirements established by the post-secondary institution. Students that do not earn a passing grade for the college course will be required to pay the District back for the costs incurred to the District.

TESTING

All students are required to complete state mandated assessments. This includes K-12 benchmark assessments for ELA, math, and a behavior screener, given three times a year. Students will also take state mandated assessments in the spring for grades 3-11, including M-Step, PSAT, SAT, and ACT WorkKeys.

EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN (EDP) (HS/MS Only)

The purpose of the Educational Development Plan (EDP) is to allow students an opportunity to explore career choices, identify strengths, and select courses, which will assist them in reaching their career goals. The EDP focuses on self-exploration, personal assets, self-improvement, work values, resume preparation, and decision making—all designed to facilitate and increase student’ work readiness. Utilizing staff support, each student is responsible for developing a meaningful and comprehensive Education Development Plan. At Tekonsha Community Schools, we use a program called Xello to develop students’ EDPs.

CALHOUN AREA TECHNOLOGY CENTER – JUNIORS AND SENIORS

Juniors and seniors at Tekonsha High School are eligible to attend the Calhoun Area Career Center (CACC) programs. All programs earn students 4 credits each year. It is a half-day program, and all Tekonsha students attend the PM sessions. For more information on the CACC, check out their website at https://www.calhounisd.org/yourisd/divisions/career-technical-education/cacc

Programs offered include:

Agriscience	Education Academy
Auto. Service Technology	Emergency Medical Technician (Basic)
Aviation Exploration	Graphic Comm. Technology
Collision Repair Technology	Health Careers Prep
Computer Networking	Health Occupations
Computer Programming	Intro to Robotics and Engineering
Construction Technology	Law Enforcement/Criminal Justice
Culinary Arts/Hospitality	Power Equipment Technology
Early Childhood Education	Welding Technology

Section 5: TECHNOLOGY

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY - CHROMEBOOKS

Tekonsha Community Schools has implemented a one-to-one Chromebook access for all students. Students in elementary will have access to devices in their classroom, but they will not be sent home with students. In grades 6-12, the student devices are issued to each student, along with a charger and a case. In order to access any technology, students and parents must sign the CISD Acceptable Usage Policy and will be held responsible for following all of the rules and procedures outlined within. This policy is designed to protect the student and the District from inappropriate or harmful activities. Failure to follow this policy can result in disciplinary action and a possible loss of use of technology.

CELL PHONES

In the elementary, students may NOT bring a cell phone or outside technology device at any time.

In the MS/HS, the school advises against bringing cell phones to school and will not be held responsible in the event of theft or destruction. Students may bring them to school, so long as they are used under the following guidelines.

Cell phones may ONLY be used in the hallways before school, between classes, and after school, and in the cafeteria during lunch time. No cell phone may be visible at any time within a classroom.
Students may not have earphones, earbuds, or any listening device in their ears in the classroom, unless teacher permission has specifically been given.
Students are personally and solely responsible for the security of their cell phones and other electronic devices. The District is not responsible for theft, loss, or damage of any cell phone or other electronic device.
Students may NOT use cell phones or other electronic devices while they are in locker rooms, restrooms, or any other area in which others may have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
At no time should any videos or photos be taken of other students without staff AND student permission.
Taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing obscene, pornographic, lewd, or otherwise illegal photographs, video, audio, or other similar data, whether by electronic data transfer or otherwise (including via cell phone or other electronic device) may constitute a crime under state or federal law. A student engaged in any of these activities at school, at a school event, or on school-provided transportation may be subject to discipline pursuant to this policy and the student code of conduct. A student engaged in any of these activities outside of school may be disciplined if the student’s activities substantially disrupt or negatively affect the school environment.

The school has a phone in the office in case of emergencies during class periods. You may use this phone. It is important that the main office be notified that you are having an emergency. If we are aware of an emergency, we can potentially help and be aware that your parents might need us to contact them.

If a student fails to comply with the above expectations, the following consequences will occur:

1st Offense - Phone is confiscated and kept in the office until the end of the day.
2nd Offense - Phone is confiscated and kept in the office until the end of the day.
3rd Offense and beyond - Phone is confiscated and kept in the office until a parent picks it up.
Repeat offenses beyond the 3rd offense could result in permanent loss of ability to have cell phone at school.

Refusal to comply with the above steps will result in further disciplinary action including total loss of cell phone privileges, detention, and suspension.

Section 6: ATTENDANCE

ATTENDANCE POLICY

It is extremely important that students understand that to receive the most from their education they must attend class everyday. If students are not in class they miss vital information and instruction, which will negatively affect the student’s learning. They miss the opportunity to question the teacher and have any misunderstood material clarified. To stress the importance of attendance Tekonsha Community Schools has set forth the following policy so students will comprehend the expectations governing attendance in our schools. Students will begin each semester with zero (0) absences.

The student must not miss more than 10 class periods in a semester, or the student will be at risk of not earning credit. Absences are to be used for the following:

Personal illness
Court appearances
Professional appointments that could not be scheduled outside of the regular school day
Serious personal or family problems.

Potential Loss of Credit

A letter will be sent home to parents at 5 absences. After 10 absences, a parent/guardian will need to contact the school counselor for a meeting for a plan to prevent further absences. After 10 absences, the student may be referred to the CISD Truancy Officer. Continued absences above 10 may require a plan to make up time missed in order for the student to earn credit. This will be determined by a meeting with the teacher, parent, counselor, and administrator. This group will review the situation and make final judgment for receiving credit in a class. Students need to monitor their daily classroom attendance and class participation so they can receive the maximum academic success.

Extenuating circumstances presented by parents may be given consideration by the administration to extend the limit.

A student who is suspended from school for a disciplinary problem for any number of days will have the number charged against the total of ten (10) permitted in the policy. School-sponsored or sanctioned activities are exempted from and will not count toward the total of ten absences. Medically excused absences (those with a documented doctor’s note) will also not count toward the total of 10 absences.

Students may have up to three pre-arranged college visits. All visits must have verification from the college. Verified college visits will not count against attendance.

Teachers will make referrals to the office of students who are exhibiting poor attendance patterns. If personal or emotional problems appear to be the cause of poor attendance habits, a referral may be made to the counselor, student assistance program or to the juvenile court.

Attendance and Extra-Curricular Participation

An athlete should be in attendance a full day in order to practice or compete, unless otherwise determined by the athletic director/principal. Any athlete not in attendance as stated, who participates in practice or competition without the approval of the athletic director/principal, will be suspended from further athletic participation until the respective coach and athletic director meet to decide what appropriate action should be taken.

If a student-athlete has a pre-arranged absence through the principal or his designee.
We recognize that there may be extenuating circumstances in some cases regarding an absence. In this case, the athletic director will make the decision.

If an athlete receives OSS (out of school suspension), that suspension begins at 3:00 pm on the day that it is received. If an athlete has a game on the day that he/she receives notice of OSS, he/she will not be able to participate until the OSS has been served.

Students that are not in an athletic program but are participating in other extra-curricular events could risk participation being suspended if the student is not present for the school day.

Make-Up Work

Students will have one day for each day of an excused absence in order to make up the assigned work. It is the responsibility of the students to see their teachers in order to make up work. Unexcused absences and suspensions are at the discretion of the teacher to allow make-up work.

Leaving the Building

Students may not leave the building for any reason without permission. Students must have written or verbal permission from a parent/guardian, provided to an office staff member, prior to leaving the school. All students that leave the building must sign out at the office. Students that do not follow these procedures and leave the building without permission will be considered “skipping.”

TARDY POLICY

If a student arrives to class more than five (5) minutes after the class has started, it is considered an absence. It will also count toward the student’s 10 total absences A tardy slip that is marked as an “office excused” will not count toward a student’s total.

Elementary tardies will be marked in the office, when a student is signed in late.

In the MS/HS, students must be in class on time. Class start times are posted around the building, and a bell will sound in the hallways to designate the start of class. Students that are not in class on time, will be required to get a TARDY PASS when they enter the classroom. Students must complete this with their name, date and class. This will be presented to the classroom teacher. The teacher will document the time that the student entered class. All tardy slips will be turned into the office at the end of the day to track attendance.

Progressive tardies will result in a letter sent home to parents. Additional tardies will progress to continued letters to parents, with a possible referral to the CISD Truancy office.

Bed Bugs / Cockroaches / Lice

If a District official suspects that a student’s person, clothing or belongings contain bed bugs, cockroaches, or other pests, a District employee may visually inspect the student’s clothing or belongings. Any bugs found should be removed and collected for identification. If a live bug is discovered on a student’s belongings, the district will notify that student’s parent/guardian and provide educational materials on prevention and treatment.

No student will be excluded from school because of a bug issue unless efforts to remedy an infestation have been unsuccessful. An individual plan between the family and the school may be implemented to avoid exclusion from school.

If bugs are found in a classroom or elsewhere in the building, the school will not close due to bug presence. If pest management is necessary, it will be provided to the affected areas of the school building consistent with the District’s Integrated Pest Management Program.

Section 7: STUDENT TRANSPORTATION

It is a privilege for students to ride a District vehicle and this privilege may be revoked if the student's conduct is in violation of the Superintendent's administrative guidelines or the Code of Conduct pertaining to student transportation.

All school rules will be in effect on the bus for students the same as at school. Students must obey bus drivers promptly as they are in full charge of buses and pupils while in transit. Pupils should be on time at the designated bus stops. Buses cannot wait. Pupils should stay off the roadway at all times while waiting for buses, and should cross in front of a bus when crossing a highway or road, not in back of a bus. Pupils should wait until the bus has come to a stop and the door is open before attempting to enter or leave the bus. The following bus rules will be posted on each bus and will be enforced for all students. Failure to follow the rules will result in

Be RESPECTFUL!!!

Use appropriate language and an “inside” voice
Electronic devices must be used with headphones and kept below the seat backs.
Use appropriate actions

No public displays of affection or roughhousing

Clean up your own mess

Eating/drinking is not allowed except water in a resealable container.

Treat others kindly

Bullying or threatening another student is not tolerated.

Be SAFE!!!

Remain seated while on the school bus
Keep ALL body parts and personal belongings inside the bus
Keep aisleways clear of arms, legs or personal items.
Keep all items to yourself - no throwing items at any time!
NO possession of weapons, drugs, tobacco or vaping products.

Students shall not be allowed to ride on any bus other than the one to which they have been assigned, unless they have a written permit, signed by office staff.

BUS DISCIPLINE CONSEQUENCES

If a student fails to comply with the above expectations, the following consequences will occur:

1st Offense - Talk with student about the offense and reason he/she is being disciplined and/or assigned a specific seat where the student can be closely watched. First Warning – Send slip home.
2nd Offense - Second warning. Conference with student, administrator, and driver making student more aware of consequences. Send slip home and assign a seat on the bus. Administrator could assign a detention or loss of bus privileges for 1-2 days.
3rd Offense - Suspension from riding the bus, up to three (3) days. Call parents and send slip home.
4th Offense - Suspension from riding all regular bus routes for five (5) days.

Further offenses or more serious offenses could result in extended loss of riding privileges, including and up to for the remainder of the school year.

Section 8: STUDENT CONDUCT & DISCIPLINE

The Board of Education authorizes its representatives, the right and responsibility to maintain proper disciplinary measures to protect the rights of the individuals to learn in a safe and secure environment as well as control the operation of the school.

Students shall respect their education in the school - which includes all people and the school facilities. Conduct yourself so as to add praise for your attitude and behavior in the classroom, in the school setting whether supervised or unsupervised, and in the community. Do not draw unwanted attention to your behavior. Dress appropriately, meet standards of health and cleanliness, be honest, courteous, and moral; use only acceptable language and refrain entirely from any offending behavior. Respect all and in return receive respect.

Discipline is a joint responsibility of parent, staff member, and pupil. The school must use all appropriate means to direct students toward proper behavior and attitude. Students may be suspended for gross misbehavior or for persistent disobedience. In cases of severe discipline problems which would threaten the safety of staff or students, immediate suspension may be necessary.

TEKONSHA’S POLICY ON CIVIL RIGHTS COMPLIANCE

The Tekonsha Board of Education will continue to comply with federal Laws prohibiting discrimination. It shall be the policy of the Tekonsha Board of Education that no person on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, sex, marital status, or handicap shall be discriminated against, excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in any program or activity for which it is responsible.

CAFETERIA EXPECTATIONS

Tekonsha Community Schools has a closed campus for lunchtime, which means that students may not leave the building for lunch. Parents are strongly discouraged from dropping off food for students, however, any food delivered must be brought to the office and will not be provided to the student until the lunch period. Deliveries from DoorDash, GrubHub or any other food delivery service will not be accepted. Students are expected to wait in line, no cutting is allowed, and sit in the cafeteria for the entire lunch period. Students are to remain seated while eating or drinking. No throwing of paper or food is permitted. Students must take care of all dishes, silverware, food, and waste paper.

No food or beverages are to be consumed outside the cafeteria unless the student has made arrangements with the school administrator to eat elsewhere. These privileges may be revoked if the student does not comply with the administrator’s guidelines of cleanliness and behavior.

CARE OF TEXTBOOKS

Students are reminded that the textbooks assigned in each class are expensive items provided by local taxpayers. Each student is responsible for the care of the text. The books will be checked carefully at the end of the course, and students will be financially responsible for any damages.

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS

Each classroom teacher may have their own rules and classroom expectations. These should be communicated to students through a syllabus, a posting in the classroom, Class Dojo, or on a Google Classroom. It is the student’s responsibility to follow the instructions and rules of the classroom teacher. If a student feels that a rule of a teacher is unfair the student should not interrupt or disrupt the class at that time. Interrupting at this time makes the student guilty of a school rule violation. If the student has a concern with a rule the time to discuss it with the teacher is before or after school/class.

When a student is asked to leave a classroom because of inappropriate behavior the student will immediately report to the office where he/she will inform the secretary as to the reason he/she is in the office. The student and the Building Administrator may meet to discuss the issue. At the end of the discussion the Building Administrator will explain what future violation could result in and inform the student of any consequences that he/she will receive for the immediate infraction of school rules.

Emergency application of force or restraint by a teacher may be necessary in the case of a student being a physical danger to themselves or someone else. The Board of Education discourages the use of force.

DRESS CODE

There is a strong connection between academic performance, student appearance and student behavior. Inappropriate student appearance may cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors on school grounds. Students are expected to adhere to reasonable levels of cleanliness and modesty. Students are expected to wear clothing that is appropriate to their age level and that does not disrupt the school or educational environment.

Students are prohibited from wearing clothing advertising or promoting items illegal for use by minors including, but not limited to, alcohol, drugs, or tobacco; and from wearing clothing displaying obscenity, profanity, vulgarity, racial or sexual remarks, or making reference to prohibited conduct or similar displays.

The following clothing is considered inappropriate:

Low necklines
Clothing that reveals underwear (including see-through, very thin shirts).
Straps that are less than 2 inches wide.
Clothing that allows the midriff/belly to be exposed
Clothing that allows for a bare back
Shorts that are shorter than fingertip length.
Hoods and sunglasses are not allowed to be worn in the school (no hats in elementary)
The Principal makes the final determination of the appropriateness of the student's appearance. Students inappropriately dressed are required to change their clothing or leave the school.

FOOD AND DRINKS

Food or drink kept in lockers should be kept spill and crumb free. The privilege to keep food or drink in lockers is contingent upon the cleanliness of the locker user and may be revoked by administration. Energy drinks are not allowed during the school day.

All food and drink are to be consumed in the cafeteria unless permission is granted by administration to eat elsewhere. This permission will be granted on an individual basis and may be revoked at the discretion of administration.

LOCKERS

For HS/MS lockers, only magnetic shelves are allowed in lockers. Glass bottles are not to be in school and definitely not in lockers because of safety. Keep lockers neat and clean. Students are not to share or trade lockers.

School employees, under the appropriate conditions that will be determined by the school, may search lockers.

TYPES OF DISCIPLINARY ACTION

Detention

The purpose of a detention is to send a message to students that certain behavior or actions are inappropriate in a school environment and will not be tolerated. Any action that disrupts the learning process could result in a detention. The purpose of the detention is not to punish the students, but to teach them to think of an acceptable way of behaving.

Detentions can be served after school in a designated area that will be arranged by the teacher who is imposing the detention or during lunch time.

The student will bring enough study materials to occupy the entire detention period. Students will not have access to cell phones or personal electronic devices during detention.

Any unacceptable behavior during detention may result in one more detention to be served per occurrence.
Students who fail to report for detentions may face consequences that include being suspended for one day and required to serve their detention the following day.

Suspension

The primary objective of student discipline is to provide a school environment in which the teaching/learning process may take place. The school will assist all students in their efforts to remain in school. However, if one’s behavior is such that it is disruptive to the normal learning environment then an established procedure must be instituted to separate that individual from the school setting. Suspension constitutes a temporary denial of the right to attend school.

In-School Suspension (ISS)

In-School Suspension involves the student being removed from the regular learning environment and being placed in a separate, supervised location for the assigned time period. During ISS, students may not use personal electronic devices, with the exception of a Chromebook for educational purposes only, at the discretion of the ISS supervisor. Students will have separate bathroom breaks and lunch times than the regular student population.

Out of School Suspension (OSS)

Any student who has been suspended from school is not to report back to school, visit the premises, or participate in any type of school program until the suspension is ended. Repeated OSS could result in a recommendation for expulsion from the school. Parents will be notified of all suspensions. OSS includes all school related events, (after school and evening events) starting the day that the suspension is given and continuing until the student completes the suspension.

Closed Classes

In some situations a class may be closed to a student, which means that the student is not allowed to attend that class until a meeting has taken place between the student, parent, teacher, and an administrator. During this meeting a plan will be designed to allow the student to return to class by modifying his/her behavior to allow the education process to continue in the class. This meeting should be scheduled within 24 hours so the student does not miss any educational opportunity.

Probation

In a case of serious or persistent infraction(s) of school rules, the Building Administrator may place a student on probation for a period of up to ten consecutive weeks. Parents will be notified either verbally or in writing of the probationary period and the reason for the discipline. During the period of probation the student will be denied the privilege of participation in or attendance at, extra-curricular activities. At the end of the probationary period each individual case shall be reviewed and the student may regain privileges. If at any time during probation a student becomes involved in a second serious violation, that student shall automatically be suspended in accordance with the school’s disciplinary policy.

DISCIPLINARY REFERRALS

All disciplinary action will be recorded by teachers on the disciplinary referral forms. Information on these forms will provide documented evidence of the offense, action taken by the teacher prior to referral, and final action and recommendation of the Building Administrator.

The teacher retains one copy, a copy is filed in the office, and a copy is mailed to parents for their information. If necessary, additional information may be presented in writing supplementing the report.

VIOLATIONS & CONSEQUENCES

All rules listed here are a guideline and subject to administrative discretion.

Aggressive misbehavior toward any school employee

Physical contact or threat of physical contact toward school employees with the intention of doing bodily harm by a student or a group of students.

First Violation

a. Conference with administrator, student, and any concerned parties.

b. Possible notification of proper police authorities.

c. Contact parent(s) or guardian(s) immediately either verbally or in writing to set up a meeting of all parties.

d. Ten days of suspension.

e. If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

Further Violations

Conference with administrator, student, and any concerned parties.
Notification of proper police authorities
Contact parent(s) or guardian(s) immediately either verbally or in writing to set up a meeting with all parties.
Immediate suspension from school and if appropriate, a recommendation to the Board of Education that the student be expelled a minimum of 90 school days with the loss of credit for any class that the student is currently enrolled in.

2. Arson or Attempted Arson, Explosive Materials, Bomb Threat

Students using or having in their possession any explosive device, legal or illegal, which is dangerous to themselves or to others.

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student(s), and any other concerned parties.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
Contact parent(s) or guardian(s) immediately either verbally or in writing.
Up to ten days of suspension.
If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

Further Violations

Conference with administrator, student(s) and any other concerned parties.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
Contact parent(s) or guardian(s) immediately either verbally or in writing.
Immediate suspension from school and a recommendation for expulsion to Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

3. Cafeteria Misconduct

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student, and any other concerned parties.
Notify parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.
Lunch detention for 1-3 days

Second Violation

Conference with administrator, student, and any other concerned parties.
Notify parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.
Lunch detention for 3-5 days.

Third violation

Conference with administrator, student, and any other concerned parties.
Notify parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.
Further consequences, including possible suspension.

4. Cheating/Plagiarism

The use of unauthorized material or another person’s answers for the purpose of completing an assignment.

Conference with administrator, student, and any concerned parties.
A zero grade on the assignment.
Teacher can assign other consequences or alternative assignment at their discretion.
Contact the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s), either verbally or in writing.

5. Criminal Sexual Conduct

Conference with administrator, student, and other concerned parties.
Contact the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.
Ten-day suspension.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to the superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

6. Death Threats

Conference with administrator, student, and other concerned parties.
Contact the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.
One to ten days suspension.

d. Possible notification of proper police authorities.

e. If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to the superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

Referral to Student Assistance Program.

7. Defiance of School Personnel’s Authority (Insubordination)

Behavior which undermines the authority of a staff member including threats, intimidation, lying, defiance of authority, and failure to respond or carry out a reasonable request.

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student, and any other concerned parties.
In school suspension or lunch detention. May include one to ten days of suspension.
Contact parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.
In extreme cases, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

Further Violation

Conference with administrator, student, and any other concerned parties.
May include three to ten days of suspension.
Contact of parent(s) or guardian(s) and a scheduled conference including the parent(s) or guardian(s), the student, the teacher, and an administrator.
In extreme cases, a recommendation for expulsion to the superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

8. Disruption of School

Disorderly conduct to include profanity, pornography, and obscene behavior, conduct, and/or behavior, which is disruptive to the orderly education procedure of the school.

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student, and any other concerned parties.
Contact the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.
May include one to ten days of suspension.
In an extreme case, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

Second Violation

Conference with administrator, student, and any other concerned parties.
May include two to ten days suspension.
In an extreme case, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

Further Violations

Conference with administrator, student, teacher, and parent(s) or guardian(s).
Contact the student’s parents(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.
May include three to ten days of suspension.
In an extreme case, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

9. Fighting

Students who mutually engage in physical contact for the purpose of inflicting harm.

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student(s), and any other concerned parties.
Contact the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.
May include one to three days of suspension.

Second Violation

Conference with administrator, student(s) and any other concerned parties.
May be suspended immediately for three to ten days.
The student will not be readmitted to school until after a parent/guardian conference with the administration.

Further Violations

Conference with administrator, student(s) and any other concerned parties.
May be suspended immediately for ten days.
A parent/guardian conference.
In an extreme case, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

10. Harassment/Bullying

Acts which are unwanted and unsolicited. Students will treat each other with respect at all times. NOTE: All sexual harassment reports must follow Title IX procedures as outlined in board policy.

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student(s) and any other concerned parties.
Notification of parents either verbally or in writing.
Possible notification of proper police authorities
May receive 1 to 10 days of suspension.

Further Violation(s)

Conference with administrator, student, and other concerned parties.
Notification of parents either verbally or in writing.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
May receive up to 10 days of suspension.
Possible recommendation for expulsion.

11. Indecent Exposure (Includes mooning)

Conference with administrator, student, and other concerned parties.
Contact the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.
May receive up to 3 days of suspension.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
In an extreme case, a recommendation for expulsion to the superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

12. Overt Physical Familiarity - Anything other than holding hands.

First Violation

Warning
Possible contact of parents

Second Violation

A conference involving the student(s), parent(s) or guardian(s), and an administrator.
Possible conference of both students with the counselor.
Possible suspension

Further Violations

Conference with administrator, student(s), and any concerned parties.

b. Contact the parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.

c. May receive one to five days of suspension.

13. Physical Assault

A physical attack of one person or a group of persons upon another who does not wish to engage in the conflict and who has not provoked an attack.

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student, and any concerned parties.
One to ten days of suspension.
Contact parents verbally or in writing.
Possible notification of proper police authority.
If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

Further Violation(s)

Conference with administrator, student, and any concerned parties.
Three to ten days of suspension.
Contact parents verbally or in writing.
Possible notification of proper policy authority.
If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

14. Possession of Pornography

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student, and other concerned parties.
Contact the student’s parent either verbally or in writing.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
May receive one to three days suspension.

15. Sexual Harassment

The Board of Education believes that sexually offensive speech and conduct are totally inappropriate and will not be tolerated in Tekonsha Community Schools. Sexual Harassment includes, but is not exclusive to: unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and verbal or physical contacts of a sexual nature (whenever submission to such conduct is a condition to a peaceful existence in the school environment). All reports of sexual harassment will follow board policy related to Title IX.

Types of Sexual Harassment

Verbal – Sexual innuendoes, suggestive commands, rumors, or jokes of a sexual nature, sexual propositions, threats, or promises of preferential treatment in return for sexual favors. Suggestions or demands for sexual involvement that are accompanied by implicit or explicit threats.
Non-Verbal – Sexually suggestive objects or pictures, graphic commentaries, suggestive or insulting sounds, whistling, or obscene gestures. Non-verbal sexual harassive materials are not to be brought on school property and anyone caught with such materials will automatically be considered guilty of sexual harassment.
Physical – Unwanted and/or unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature, including, but not limited to touching, patting, pinching, brushing against, coerced sexual intercourse, assault or other unwelcome sexual acts.

Verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature may constitute sexual harassment when the allegedly harassed student has indicated, by his or her conduct or verbal statement that it is unwelcome.

Any student protected by this policy who has initially welcomed such conduct by active participation must give specific notice to the alleged harasser that such conduct is no longer welcome in order for any such subsequent conduct to be deemed unwelcome.

Any Violation

The District will follow Title IX reporting procedures. Discipline must comply with Title IX policies and could include:

Conference with administrator, parents, student(s), and any other concerned parties.
Up to 10 days of suspension.

c. Possible notification of proper police authorities.

d. If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to the superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

16. Skipping

Leaving the school without permission from the office. Students that are absent from their classroom without permission will be considered skipping.

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student(s), and any other concerning parties.
Lunch detention or possible in school suspension. .
Contact the students parent(s) or guardian) s either verbally or in writing.

Second Violation

Conference with administrator, student(s), and any other concerned parties.
May receive additional lunch detention, ISS, or one to two days of suspension.
Conference between parent(s) or guardian(s) and school administrator.

FurtherViolations

Conference with administrator, student(s) and any concerned parties.
May receive three to ten days of suspension.
Conference between parent(s) or guardian(s) and school administrator.
If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

17. Substance Abuse/Drugs/Alcohol

Use, possession, sale, or delivery, of controlled substances or look-alikes.

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student, and any concerned parties.
Notify parent(s) or guardian(s) immediately, either verbally or in writing.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
Mandatory three day suspension up to ten days of suspension.
If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

*If the student enrolls and completes a Student Assistance Program, certain portions of the above procedures may be reduced.

Further Violations

Conference with administrator, student, and any concerned parties.
Notify parent(s) or guardian(s) immediately either verbally or in writing.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
Immediate suspension from school and possible recommendation to the Board of Education that a student be expelled.

*If the student enrolls and completes a Student Assistance Program, certain portions of the above procedures may be reduced.

18. Theft

The taking of property not belonging to you. The student or the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) will be responsible to return or make restitution for the object(s).

First Violation

Conference with an administrator, student(s) and any other concerned parties.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
Notify parent either verbally or in writing.
May receive up to ten days of suspension.
If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

Further Violations

Conference with an administrator, student(s) and any other concerned parties.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
A conference involving the student(s), parents(s), or guardian(s), and an administrator.
Additional consequences, including additional suspensions.
If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

19. Tobacco

Use or possession of tobacco (includes vaping) on school grounds or at school functions.

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student, and any other concerned parties.
1 to 2 days of suspension.
Contact parents verbally or in writing.

Further Violation(s)

Conference with administrator, student, and any other concerned parties.
Three to ten days of suspension.
Contact parents verbally or in writing.

In extreme cases, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education

20. Vandalism

Destruction or defacement of school property, or properties on school grounds or used in a school activity (home or away). The destroying or mutilating of objects or materials of the school or others including, but not limited to, planners, keys, books, and computers. Restitution and/or repair will be made by the offending student or student’s parent(s)/guardian(s).

First Violation

Conference with administrator, student, and any concerned parties.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
May receive up to five days of suspension.
Contact parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.
In extreme cases, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

Further Violations

Conference with administrator, student, and any concerned parties.
Possible notification of proper police authorities.
Mandatory suspension of up to ten days.
Mandatory conference involving the parent(s) or guardian(s), the student, and an administrator.

If appropriate, a recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

21. Weapons: Use or Possession

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

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

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

The Superintendent is authorized to establish instructional programs on weapons which require students to immediately report knowledge of weapons and threats of violence by students and staff to the building principal. Failure to report such knowledge may subject the student to discipline up to and including suspension or expulsion from school.

Any Violation

a. Conference with administrator, student, and any concerned parties.

b. Immediate notification of proper police authorities.

c. Immediate suspension, pending full investigation.

d. Contact parent(s) or guardian(s) either verbally or in writing.

e. Possible recommendation for expulsion to the Superintendent for presentation to the Board of Education.

Policy exceptions include:

weapons under the control of law enforcement personnel;
items pre-approved by the building principal as part of a class or individual presentation under adult supervision, if used for the purpose and in the manner approved; (Working firearms and any ammunition will never be approved as part of a presentation.)
theatrical props used in appropriate settings.

Section 9: STUDENT ACTIVITIES

ATHLETICS

Students who participate on any athletic team at Tekonsha Community Schools represent themselves, their family, the team, school, and the community. For these reasons conduct both on and off the field should reflect the highest values and standards, which the school exemplifies. Students and parents will be asked to sign an Athletic Responsibility Acknowledgement, Student Code of Conduct, Athletic Rules, and follow team and M.H.S.A.A. rules. All rules regarding eligibility, attendance and participation, and consequences for athletic code violations are listed in the Tekonsha Athletic Guidelines Handbook.

Fall	Winter	Spring
Cross Country (MS/HS)	Boys Basketball (MS/HS)	Boys Golf (HS)
Football (MS/HS)	Girls Basketball (MS/HS)	Baseball (HS)
Girls Golf (HS)	Sideline Cheer (HS)	Softball (HS)
Sideline Cheer (HS)	Wrestling (MS/HS)	Track (MS/HS)
Volleyball (MS/HS)

FUNDRAISERS

All fundraisers will be done outside of school hours. There will be no selling at school with the exception of a school store that may be run by a student entity approved by administration. Each class or organization may be limited to one fundraiser per year, unless otherwise approved by administration.

STUDENT CLUBS/EXTRACURRICULAR GROUPS

Tekonsha Community Schools encourages clubs that support the diverse interests and activities of its student body. Any new group must be approved by the building administrator and have a designated responsible staff member present at all meeting times.

STUDENT DANCES

Only current Tekonsha High School students are allowed to attend. Past students and students from other schools MUST attend as a guest of a current student.
Guests must be a high school student or have graduated in the last 2 years and under the age of 21. No dates over the age of 20 will be allowed for any reason.
Students who want to have guests must have prearranged written approval from administration by completing a form submitted by the posted deadline for each dance.
Students who leave the dance will not be readmitted. Requests that involve a necessity to leave temporarily for some emergency will be handled by one of the Advisors in charge of the dance.
Middle School students will not attend high school dances or vice versa.
Any students or guests whose conduct at the dance is in any way detrimental will be asked to leave. Teachers will not hesitate to call the police for assistance in any situation that appears difficult to handle personally.
Administration has the right to close down any dance, at any time, if student safety is jeopardized by circumstances or situations that may present themselves.
Alumni from the prior graduating year will not need a pass for the homecoming dance.

Section 10: IMPORTANT INFORMATION

BOARD POLICIES

All policies as adopted by the Tekonsha Board of Education can be found on the District website, at www.tekonshaschools.org, under Board of Education - Bylaws and Procedures.

DUE PROCESS

Due process shall be accorded all students who may be denied course credit due to excessive absences. Such action may be appealed to the Superintendent of Schools, and then to the Board of Education.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that Tekonsha Community Schools, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records. However, Tekonsha Community Schools may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Tekonsha Community Schools to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include:

A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production;
The annual yearbook
Honor roll or other recognition lists’
Graduation programs’ and
Sports activity sheets, such as for football, showing weight and height of team members.

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local education agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.

If you do not want Tekonsha Community Schools to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing by the 2nd Friday after school starts. Tekonsha Community Schools has designated the following information as directory information:

Student’s name
Address
Telephone listing
Electronic mail address
Photograph
Date and place of birth
Major field of study
Dates of attendance
Grade level
Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
Weight and height of members of athletic teams
Degrees, honors, and awards received
The most recent educational agency or institution attended

MILITARY RELEASE OF INFORMATION

Federal law requires the District to release a secondary school student’s name, address, and telephone number to U.S. Military recruiters and institutions of higher education upon their request. If you do not want your student’s information released for one or both of these purposes, please request an OPT OUT form from the high school office.

ANTI-HARASSMENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

Please see Board Policy 5517 for full information

General Policy Statement

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

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

Other Violations of the Anti-Harassment Policy

The Board will also take immediate steps to impose disciplinary action on individuals engaging in any of the following prohibited acts:

Retaliating against a person who has made a report or filed a complaint alleging unlawful harassment, or who has participated as a witness in a harassment investigation.
Filing a malicious or knowingly false report or complaint of unlawful harassment.
Disregarding, failing to investigate adequately, or delaying investigation of allegations of unlawful harassment, when responsibility for reporting and/or investigating harassment charges comprises part of one's supervisory duties.

Types of Harassment

Types of harassment covered under this policy include Bullying, Sexual Harassment, Race/Color Harassment, Religious (Creed) Harassment, National Origin/Ancestry Harassment, and Disability Harassment.

Anti-Harassment Compliance Officers

The following individual(s) shall serve as the District’s Anti-Harassment Compliance Officer(s) (hereinafter, “the Compliance Officer(s)”):

JoEllen O'Keefe

Superintendent

Tekonsha Community Schools

245 S. Elm St.

Tekonsha, MI 49092

517-767-4121 ext 101

okeefej@tekonsha.k12.mi.us

Aryn Henry

Teacher/Dean of Students

Tekonsha Community Schools

245 S. Elm St.

Tekonsha, MI 49092

517-767-4121 ext 209

henrya@tekonsha.k12.mi.us

The Compliance Officer(s) are responsible for coordinating the District’s efforts to comply with applicable Federal and State laws and regulations, including the District’s duty to address in a prompt and equitable manner any inquiries or complaints regarding harassment.

The Compliance Officer(s) will be available during regular school/work hours to discuss concerns related to unlawful harassment, to assist students, other members of the District community, and third parties who seek support or advice when informing another individual about "unwelcome" conduct, or to intercede informally on behalf of the individual in those instances where concerns have not resulted in the filing of a formal complaint and where all parties are in agreement to participate in an informal process.

Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Information Guide

Pursuant to MCL 380.1508 (Public Act 57 of 2023), the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) also developed age-appropriate informational materials for students in grades 6-12 titled Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Information Guide.

SCHOOL SONG

(This is sung to the tune of “On Wisconsin”)

On Tekonsha! On Tekonsha!

Fight, fight for her fame.

Take the ball right down the field,

A touchdown sure this time.

Rah! Rah! Rah!

On Tekonsha! On Tekonsha!

Fight, fight for her fame.

Fight fellows, fight and we will win this game. Fight!

(Words exchanged for basketball would be

“Take the ball right down the floor,

A basket sure this time”

Rah! Rah! Rah!

Tekonsha K-12 Student Handbook