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Student Handbook

&

Discipline Codebook

2025 - 2026

The Memorial Options Center

22800 Fox Avenue
Euclid, OH 44123
Telephone: (216) 732-2700

Website: www.euclidschools.org
Euclid City Schools District

Greetings from the Administration

of the Memorial Options Center

Dear Students,

Welcome to your new school! We are happy to have you here and look forward to helping you have a memorable, productive, and exciting school year.

This handbook will answer many of the questions you may have about the activities and rules here at the Educational Options Center. We hope that you will find it helpful throughout the year.

May this be the most rewarding year so far in your school career.

Sincerely,

Mr. Jason Coleman, Principal

Revised 8/2024

Table of Contents

School Hours

Classes begin at 8:15 a.m.  Students are dismissed at 3:00 p.m.

Daily Bell Schedule

Thrive Program

Thrive Program

Panther Academy

Other Program Schedules

Euclid City School District Website – www.euclidschools.org

Euclid Safe School Helpline – 1-216-797-SAFE

School Procedures and General Information

Absence Policy for Students

Students achieve more academically and feel more connected to school when they attend school regularly. Students establish greater continuity when they are in classes every day.

We encourage daily attendance at school. Nonetheless, we understand that occasionally students may become ill and need to stay home.

State law recognizes seven reasons for an excused absence from school:

1. Personal illness of the student
2. Illness in the students’ family
3. Death of a relative
4. Quarantine of the home
5. Observance of a religious holiday
6. Home due to the absence of parents
7. An emergency of a set of circumstances which, in the judgment of the superintendent of schools, or his designee constitutes a good and sufficient cause for absence.  

Each student who is absent must immediately upon returning to school make arrangements with his teacher(s) to make up work missed.  Students who are absent from school for reasons not excused by state law are expected to make up work and be current with classwork.  Credit for completed work will be granted on a case-by-case basis and as agreed upon by the principal and each of the student’s respective teachers.

Parents are required to call the clinic on the day of their child’s absence.  Please call 732-2700 to report an absence.  If you reach the voicemail, leave a message including the first and last name of the student, the grade, and the reason for the absence.  When parents do not call or send a note, Ohio law requires that the school make every attempt to contact the student’s parents on the same day.

The Euclid Board of Education does not believe that students should be excused from school for non-emergency trips out of the district.  Children who are taken out of school for trips or vacations will not be given permission to do so by the school. The responsibility for this will rest with the parents, and they must not expect any work missed by their child to be re-taught by the teacher.  However, if the school is notified at least five days in advance of such a trip, every effort will be made to prepare a general list of assignments for the child to do while he/she is absent.

Parents will be notified in writing (ORC 3321.19) when a student has reached excessive absence, habitual truancy, and/or chronic absenteeism.

• Excessive absence is defined as absent “with or without a legitimate excuse from the public school the child is supposed to attend for thirty-eight or more hours in one school month, or sixty-five ore more hours in one school year.”
• Habitual truancy is defined as absent “without a legitimate excuse from the public school the child is supposed to attend for thirty or more consecutive hours, forty-two ore more hours in one school month, or seventy-two or more hours in one school month.”
• Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing “10 percent or more of the school year for any reason. These include excused absences, unexcused absences, and absences due to out-of-school suspensions.”

Ohio law (ORC 3313.609) prohibits a student’s promotion to the next grade level if the student is truant for more than ten percent of the school year and has failed two or more required curriculum subject areas.

Activities

Besides interscholastic sports, our school offers many other activities in which students can become involved.  These include the following: Drill Team, Literary Magazine, National Junior Honor Society, Right Direction, School Newspaper, Science Fair, and Student Council. Students should listen for announcements for group and club information. Parents will also receive information through building communications.

Anti-Harassment, Anti-Intimidation, Anti-Bullying Policy

It is the policy of the Euclid City Schools Board of Education that any form of bullying behavior, whether in the classroom, on school property, to and from school, or at school-sponsored events, is expressly forbidden and strictly prohibited. Any such conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion from school.

Definitions

“Harassment, intimidation, or bullying” means an intentional written, verbal, graphic, or physical act that a student or group of students exhibited toward any student(s) more than once and the behavior BOTH:

• Causes mental or physical harm or places an individual in reasonable fear of physical harm, and/or damages an individual’s private property, and
• Is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for the other student(s).

“Harassment, intimidation, or bullying’ also includes electronically transmitted acts (e.g. Internet, cell phone, personal digital assistant (PDA), or wireless hand-held device that a student has exhibited toward (an)other particular student(s)) more than once and the behavior BOTH:

• Causes mental or physical harm or places an individual in reasonable fear of physical harm, and/or damages an individual’s private property, and
• It is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for the other student(s).

In evaluating whether conduct constitutes “harassment, intimidation, or bullying,” special attention should be paid to the words chosen or the actions taken, whether such conduct occurred in front of others or was communicated to others, how the perpetrator interacted with the victim and the motivation, either admitted or appropriately inferred.

A “school-sponsored activity” shall mean any activity conducted on or off school property (including school buses and other school-related vehicles) that is sponsored, recognized, or authorized by the Euclid City Schools Board of Education.

Complaint Process

The prohibition against harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall be publicized in any student handbooks and in any of the publications that set forth the comprehensive rules, procedures, and standards of conduct for schools and students in the district. In addition, information regarding this policy shall be incorporated into employee training materials.

Formal Complaints

Students and/or their parents or guardians may file reports regarding suspected harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Such written reports must be reasonably specific including person(s) involved, number of times and places of the alleged conduct, the target of suspected harassment, intimidation, or bullying, and the names of any potential student or staff witnesses. Such reports may be filed with any school staff member or administrator, and they shall be promptly forwarded to the building principal for review and action in accordance with procedures in this section.

Informal Complaints

Students, their parents or guardians, and school personnel may make informal complaints of conduct that they consider to be harassment, intimidation, or bullying by verbal report to a teacher, school administrator, or other school personnel. Such informal complaints must be reasonably specific as to the actions giving rise to the suspicion of harassment, intimidation, or bullying including person(s) involved, number of times and places of the alleged conduct, the target of the prohibited behaviors, and the names of any potential student or staff witnesses. A school staff member or administrator who receives an informal complaint shall promptly document the complaint in writing, including the above information. This written report by the school staff member and/or administrator shall be promptly forwarded to the building principal for review and action in accordance with procedures in this section.

Anonymous Complaints

Students who make informal complaints as described above may request that their names be maintained in confidence by the school staff member(s) and administrator(s) who receive the complaints. Anonymous complaints shall be reviewed, and reasonable action will be taken to address the situation, to the extent, such action may be taken that (1) does not disclose the source of the complaint, and (2) is consistent with the due process rights of the student(s) alleged to have committed acts of harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying.

Appropriate Restraint

Adult staff members are permitted by law to use such an amount of force or restraint as is reasonable to end a disturbance that is threatening physical injury to others, for the purpose of self-defense, or for the protection of persons or property.

Athletics

Seventh-grade boys and girls have the opportunity to participate in interscholastic sports.  Fall sports are Football, Volleyball (girls), Cross Country and Cheerleading.  Winter sports include Swimming (co-ed), Wrestling, Girls Basketball, and Boys Basketball.  Spring sports include Softball (girls), Baseball (boys), Boys Track, Girls Track, and Tennis (co-ed).

Cafeteria

Breakfast and well-balanced and nutritious breakfasts and lunches are provided to all students at no charge.  This includes daily vegetarian options.  Please check the weekly communication messages and our website for each week’s lunch menu. All food items and drinks must be consumed in the cafeteria.

Change of Information

Parents should notify the school office in writing of any change of address, telephone number, or other student emergency information.  Any information concerning family illness, death, or change of marital status which parents feel should be shared with the school in the best interest of the child will be held in professional confidence.

Clinic

The clinic provides health services for our students.   These include vision and dental screening, distribution of prescribed medicines, first aid, and coordination of emergency procedures.  Students who are injured or become ill during the school day should report this to the teacher or person in charge and receive a pass permitting them to go to the clinic.  Any serious illness or injury will be reported to parents or persons listed on the student’s emergency form.  Therefore, it is imperative that parents provide the Emergency Medical Form as soon as their child comes to school.   Be sure that the form contains individuals to contact and their current telephone numbers.  If this form is not on file in the school office in a timely manner, the student will be excluded from school.

Parents should advise the clinic of any injuries or illness which would place restrictions on the student’s educational program.  In some instances, a note from a physician may be requested.  Many students are able to attend school regularly only through effective use of medication.  If possible, their medication should be given by the parent at home.  If this is not possible, the medication will be administered at school.  Parents are reminded that students are not permitted to possess or take any medication without permission and supervision of the school health aide.  If medication is needed during the day, parents should complete a permission form and bring it to the clinic when they bring the medication.  This Physician/Parent Authorization Form is available at the clinic.  Parents must also submit a revised statement signed by a physician if there are any changes in the authorization form.  These procedures must be followed for any prescribed medication, even for short periods of time.  The school staff will not administer non-prescribed medication.

Computer Use

Computer use is encouraged, and computers are readily available to students for educational purposes.  Students have many opportunities to use computers; however, strict guidelines must be followed. A student desiring to use the Internet must obtain approval from a school authority before using it.  This includes completing an “Internet Use” form.  The search and seizure policy applies to computers, programs, software, hardware, or information.  The students’ computer use is subject to review and inspection at any time without suspicion or cause.  There is no student expectation of privacy for any information contained in a school computer.  The school retains the ownership of all hardware and software on loan to a student.  The school has the right to inspect, copy, and/or delete all files and records created or stored on school-owned computers.

Electronic Devices

Students will not be permitted to use electronic devices at any time, in any part of the building, during school hours (8:15-3:00).  Students will be permitted to responsibly use their phones during morning supervision time prior to first period. Students are PROHIBITED from talking on the phone and/or taking videos or pictures in all areas of the building at all times.  All electronics must be turned off or silenced and kept in a locked school locker during the school day.  Lost, stolen, or damaged electronic devices are not the responsibility of the school or school district.

Emergency Procedures

The primary consideration in any emergency situation must be the safety of the students and staff. At certain times, therefore, it may be necessary to ask the staff to perform "beyond the call of duty" in order to provide for the welfare of our students. In the event of an actual emergency situation, all school personnel, instructional and non-instructional, will be required to remain in the building until they are dismissed by the principal.

When an emergency occurs the principal shall consult, when feasible, with the Superintendent concerning whether to evacuate the school. An announcement will then be made to inform staff and students of the emergency procedures that will be followed.

If a decision is made to send students home or to a preselected site, attempts will be made to notify parents by telephone and/or by radio or TV, and the public address system will be used to inform all teachers and students.

Exams

Exams are an important part of assessing student progress and will be administered to students on a regular basis. These exams will compose a portion of the student’s final grade.

Fees and Fines

Students are assessed materials and supply fees.  This fee should be paid during the first grading period.  Students will also be fined for damaged or lost textbooks.  Report cards will be withheld if fees are not paid, and students may be denied the privilege of participating in school activities.

Field Trips

Students will participate in field trips as part of their regular academic program.  Students are responsible for returning signed permission forms. Failure to do so may mean that the student will not be able to participate and will not receive academic credit for that activity.  All school rules apply during field trips.  The administration may place restrictions on any student’s participation on the field trip when, in the administrator’s judgment, it is not in the best interest of the child or of his classmates to attend such an activity.

Grading Guidelines

Grades indicate the extent to which a student has mastered course objectives.  The grade for every nine weeks includes the assessment of those activities (homework, lab assignments, worksheets, reports, etc.) that are designed to help the student reach course objectives.  The letters and corresponding meanings are as follows:

It is our goal that all students reach at least the “C” level of mastery in each course.  If they do not maintain this level, we encourage parents, students, and teachers to meet to determine the reason for the lack of success and to develop and implement a plan to help the student succeed.

The responsibility for assuring student success is shared by the student, the parents, and the teacher.  The student is responsible for maintaining an attitude and a pattern of behavior that promotes learning.  The student must be actively involved in the learning process by participating in and completing all assigned work and by reacting in a positive way to directions given by parents and teachers.  Teachers are responsible for presenting appropriate instruction, for assessing the results of instruction, and for communicating student progress with parents and students.  Parents are responsible for setting appropriately high expectations for their child and for providing support and guidance to ensure that their child completes assigned work.  

Grades are determined by the teacher in each course for each student to indicate the student’s success in completing each nine-week grading period and the course.  The teacher is the subject area expert and is, therefore, best qualified to assess the degree of mastery of course objectives attained by the student.  The teacher assigns grades based on evidence of the student’s work which may include both quantitative and qualitative measures as appropriate to the characteristics of the subject.  Assessments may, therefore, be objective or subjective including evaluation of written tests, long-term projects, presentations, or a variety of other assessments.

Teachers issue a written explanation of the procedures used to determine the students’ grades to the students within the first two weeks of the course.  Also within the first two weeks, teachers issue to students a written list of the course objectives/course outline to be used as the basis for class activities and the semester exams.

The final grade for each course is calculated by using point values.  The point values for each grading period are the following:

The final grade is determined by adding the point values and then selecting the appropriate grade from the chart below.  A student must earn points in a minimum of two quarters to pass each subject for the year.

The following are sample student grades and final grade calculations.

Guidance and Counseling

The guidance and counseling program is designed to offer students, parents, and teachers a wide range of services. Along with monitoring the academic progress of all students, the counselor teaches group career guidance lessons, interprets test scores, makes referrals for individual counseling, and coordinates the scheduling process for students.

Honors

Students are recognized for their high academic achievement in several ways.  

First, at the end of each grading period, students are eligible to be members of honor rolls in three categories.  Students must attain each of the criteria to be recognized for that honor roll:

Distinguished Honor Roll - 3.75 GPA or greater

Honor Roll - 3.5 to 3.74 GPA

Merit Roll - 3.0 to 3.49 GPA

Second, an awards program at the end of the year brings special attention to students maintaining very high standards of performance in the classroom, perfect attendance, and citizenship.  At this program, one student is also recognized in each department as the most outstanding in that department.  

Finally, students may be selected for induction into the National Junior Honor Society.  Criteria for nomination to this group include high achievement in four areas:  Service, Scholarship, Leadership, and Character.

Infinite Campus

Students and parents can access a variety of important information through Infinite Campus, such as grades, attendance, assignments, and more.  Infinite Campus can be accessed through the Euclid Schools homepage (www.euclidschools.org) using your browser or you can use the mobile app, “Campus Parent” by Infinite Campus.  All parents will receive a letter with important login and account information prior to the start of the new school year.  Please contact your child’s school counselor or administrator with questions or for assistance.

Lockers

All students may be provided lockers with a lock.  The lockers are the property of Euclid City Schools.  Lockers are used to store school supplies, electronics, outdoor clothing, and lunches.  Other materials should be left at home.  Students must use only the locker that is assigned to them at the beginning of the year.  The school is not responsible for missing or damaged items in the locker, so we advise students not to carry expensive items to school.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parent-Teacher conferences provide a positive and open dialogue between parents and the school staff.  The conferences present an opportunity to share ideas and information about the student and to review the student’s academic, social, and emotional progress.  They also serve to help clarify questions about the academic program and to share other school-related concerns.  There are two conference formats that may be used.  The first is an open conference where parents conference with any teacher of their choosing.   Although these conferences last no longer than five minutes each, they give parents an opportunity to have many conferences during the evening.  The second conference involves a planned schedule.  Parents arrange specific times to meet with one teacher, all teachers on the team, or a group of teachers at one time.   The kind of conferences that are held may vary from year to year.

Whenever parents feel they would like more time than is provided by the conference evenings, they are invited to schedule appointments at any time during the school year.  However, unscheduled visits to the classroom are not permitted since they disrupt the teaching process.  Parents can arrange additional conferences by calling the school office.

Promotion and Retention Standards

Multiple factors are considered in deciding whether to promote, place, or retain a student.  The student’s academic achievement level, maturity level, age, intellectual ability, social/emotional development, physical size, previous retention, attendance, learning disability, attitude, and motivation are all considered.  When a review of these factors finds no significant deviation from the norm, grades received during the school year become the main deciding factor.  In this case, a student must pass at least four of the five academic subjects (reading, math, science, English, and social studies) to be promoted to the next grade.

Parent-Teacher Association

Parent-Teacher Association activities enrich the curricular and extracurricular programs at our school and help to maintain a positive dialogue between parents and the school staff.  Everyone in our school community is encouraged to join the PTA and to participate in the many activities the group sponsors.  If you wish to take part, contact the school office for further information.

Report Cards and Interim Progress Reports

Infinite Campus is the district’s online student information system and is accessed via the internet.  The school district does not send home paper copies of progress reports or quarterly grades.  Parents and students can check classes, teachers, assignments, and current grades using the system.  This information is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to ensure parents and students are aware of student progress.  Login information will be provided for parents and students at the beginning of school and upon request from the team leader.

Student Records

All records of a student are available to the parent or guardian.  A counselor or an administrator can be available to review these files with the parent and to explain any aspect of the information found therein.  Parents who would like copies of the records should make this request in writing, and a copy will be provided in a timely manner.

Transportation

Bus service is provided for eligible students by First Student Transportation.  For the safety of all students who ride the bus, strict rules are enforced.  Any student who repeatedly exhibits inappropriate behavior on the bus will be denied transportation.  In this event, parents will be notified, and the reason for the suspension will be explained.  During bus suspensions, the parents have the responsibility to transport their children to school.  Any questions or concerns regarding transportation should be directed to (216) 797-7600.

Vision and Mission Statements

At The Memorial Options Center, our vision is that teachers, students, and families work in collaboration to foster our students’ intellectual, academic, and social development through authentic, meaningful, interdisciplinary experiences.

Our mission is to provide a learning environment that permits students to create new knowledge and solve real-life problems.  The components of this environment include project-based activities with extensive social interactions.

Visitors

For the safety of our students and staff members, all visitors to the school are required to report to the security office to obtain a visitor’s pass.  The pass must be worn at all times when visitors are in the building.  After obtaining the visitor’s pass, visitors must come to the main office to discuss the reason for their visit.  As appropriate, visitors may be escorted to a room for a conference or may meet with their child or a specific staff member in the office.  At no time may a visitor go to a classroom without an appointment and permission. 

Discipline Codebook

Students learn more and they learn better when they attend schools that are safe and free from distractions.

By following four very simple rules, students can influence the school climate positively:

1. Be where you are supposed to be (for example, in school, in class, at lunch),
2. When you’re supposed to be there.
3. Listen to adults who are in charge, including teachers, principals, aides, secretaries, etc.
4. And comply with their simple directions without argument.

As simple as these rules are, occasionally students break them reflecting poorly on themselves as well as on their parents or guardians. School districts establish discipline codes for this very reason.

Parents are their child’s most influential teachers and are responsible for their child’s education.  The public school system has been established to help parents in this endeavor.  In this endeavor, students have the right to quality education as well as the responsibility to exercise that right.  Teachers provide formal instruction and build on the expectations and attitudes developed in the home.  To help schools establish and maintain an orderly learning environment, courts have given school districts broad authority to develop and enforce rules.  While under the supervision of school staff, students are required to comply with directives given to them.

Where Do School Rules Apply?

Students are subject to school disciplinary action up to and including suspension and expulsion as specified herein for all actions, which affect the good order, efficiency, morale, management, and welfare of the school.  Although the primary emphasis will be directed to activities taking place in the school or activities taking place near the school grounds, any student action on or off school property which directly affects the school will be subject to disciplinary action.  Areas of disciplinary control shall include:

1.        While in the school, on the school grounds or insight of school premises during and immediately before or immediately after school hours, including schools where the student is not in attendance.

2.        While on school-owned and operated buses or other school-owned or operated vehicles, waiting at bus stops, walking to and from school bus stops or walking to and from school.

3.     While engaged in or attending school-related activities on or off school grounds.

4.        While on school grounds, at any time when the school is being used by the school or school-related groups.

5.        While engaged in any conduct, which will directly affect the good order, efficiency, morale, management, and welfare of the school.

Administering Consequences

The rules and consequences listed in this codebook have been developed by a committee of teachers, parents, and administrators.  They recognize the rights, responsibilities, and dignity of all members of the school community.

In general, consequences are progressive in nature in that they become more severe as the behavior is repeated.  Consequences also become more severe as the nature of the inappropriate behavior becomes more severe.  While each rule has a suggested range of consequences, each discipline situation is considered on an individual basis.  So, when deciding on the consequence for any behavior, the school administrator will consider 1) the nature of the inappropriate behavior, 2) the circumstances under which it took place, 3) the discipline history of the student, 4) the ability level and special needs of the student, and 5) the impact the behavior had on other individuals, the learning process, or property.  However, in those cases where the consequences are prefaced by the term “mandatory,” the administrator must apply the consequence indicated. Finally, violations that involve members of the school’s staff may result in more severe consequences.

Teachers make rules in their classrooms and apply consequences for inappropriate behavior.  Although consequences should align with those indicated in the school codebook, teachers can and should assign consequences in a manner that makes sense for the immediate situation.  In other words, teachers should not send office referrals merely because the rule is included in the codebook but should use their judgment.  However, certain behaviors always require referrals.  These include Assault on Staff, Drugs and Alcohol, False Reporting of Fire or Bomb, Fighting/Assault, Fires and Explosives, Harassment, Hazing, Profanity to Staff, Sexual Harassment, Smoking, Threat to Staff, Weapons, and Unlawful Behavior.

Consequences that may be applied by the administrator are listed below: conference, warning, restriction of privileges, extended day, Extended Day, Saturday School, out-of-school suspension, expulsion, restitution, cleanup, emergency removal, loss of credit for a class assignment, police notification, and removal from an extracurricular activity.

Extended Day

Students may serve Extended Day for minor referrals. Extended Day is held at Euclid Middle School on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:00pm to 5:00pm in the cafeteria. Students must be on time and sign in with the staff member supervising Extended Day. Students spend two (2) hours of study under the supervision of a staff member.  If students fail to attend Extended Day, a Saturday School or other more significant consequence may be assigned.

Saturday School Guidelines

Students attend Saturday School as an alternative option to a suspension from school.  Students spend two (2) hours of study under the supervision of a staff member.  If students fail to attend, the assigned suspension is enforced starting immediately on the following school day.

The following guidelines pertain to Saturday School:

1.         Saturday School is in session from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.  Promptness is required.  Doors open at 8:15 a.m. and close at 8:35 a.m.  Students will not be admitted to the school if they arrive after 8:35 a.m.

2.         Students are required to bring their own study materials including school-related books, paper, pens, pencils, etc.  Puzzles, games, comic books, coloring books, etc., are not appropriate for study materials.  There should be enough materials to last three hours.  Lockers are off-limits and access to other areas of the building will not be permitted.  Students are expected to use this time for completion of schoolwork; therefore, activities such as talking without permission, sleeping, or appearing to be asleep are not permitted.

3.         Students are required to wear appropriate school clothes.  Students inappropriately dressed will be sent home.

4.         Students are not permitted to bring such items as food, beverages, audio or visual equipment like radios, tape recorders, or TV’s, playing cards or any materials that are disruptive to the educational environment.

5.         Students attending Saturday School are subject to all regulations in the discipline codebook.  Students who are asked to leave Saturday School because of behavior or not having appropriate study materials will receive a three-day out-of-school suspension. Finally, students are expected to participate in activities structured by Saturday School personnel.

Search and Seizure

Upon reasonable suspicion of the presence of an item prohibited in the discipline codebook, school officials will search a student’s locker, purse, book bag, pockets, etc., and will confiscate any prohibited item they find.   Consequences will also be administered if the student has violated the codebook.

Electronic Surveillance

The interior and exterior of the middle school are under electronic surveillance.  A recording may be used as evidence by administrators, security officers, or the police in any situation involving the violation of any school rule or civil law.  Privacy considerations and other factors prevent school officials from sharing surveillance tapes with parents, students, or members of the general public.

Rules and Consequences

1.  Academic Dishonesty/Falsification

Students should present only their own work for all assignments, avoiding plagiarism from peers, internet sites, previous authors, etc. Further, students cannot falsify documents including hall passes, permission slips, teachers’ notes or words, etc.  Falsification also includes, but is not limited to, any verbal representation intended to have the same effect of any written forgery or falsification as specified above. Plagiarism is defined as copying or imitating the ideas or written work of another person.  No student shall provide a false statement to any staff member.

Copying from a peer

Plagiarizing an outside source (author, website, etc.)

Falsifying a teacher’s document or words

Unauthorized use of a teacher’s answer document

Other

Consequences        Loss of Credit/Extended Day/Saturday School/Suspension/ Recommendation for Expulsion

2.  Assault on Staff

Students shall not cause physical harm to any school staff member through deliberate, inappropriate contact of either the student or object under the student’s control.  Included in this section can be any action by which the staff member is hit by an object thrown or propelled by a student.

Deliberate, inappropriate contact

Other

Consequences        Mandatory 10-day Suspension/Police Report and Recommendation for Expulsion

3.  Bombs/Firearms/Weapons

Students shall not possess any form of weapon or object resembling a weapon. .  Weapons include, but are not limited to: guns, knives, razor blades, ice picks, ammunition, pellet guns, or other objects that reasonably can be considered a weapon.   Students also cannot use routine items as weapons (ie., pencils, combs, etc.)  Common objects such as pencils, pens, screwdrivers, belts, etc., can also be considered weapons if used to threaten or cause harm.  No student shall set a fire or possess an explosive device. Explosive devices include, but are not limited to: bombs, fireworks, and “stink” bombs.

Possession/Use of Firearm

Possession/Use of Knife

Possession/Use of Bomb

Possession/Use of item resembling a weapon

Use of routine item as weapon

Unauthorized Fire

Other

Consequences        10-day Suspension/Police Notification and Recommendation for Expulsion

4.   Class Cut

Students should be in their assigned areas at all times.  No student shall be absent from a class period without permission.  Included in this rule is any unexcused absence from a class of 4 minutes or greater.

Abuse of hall pass

In school, not in class

Arriving to class after school’s tardy policy permits (4 minutes or greater)

Other

Consequences        1st offense        Warning/Time in Office/Parent Contact

        2nd offense        Extended Day

        3rd offense        Saturday School

        4th offense        Suspension/Other

5.  Disrespect-Defiance-Non-Compliance

Students shall comply with adult directives the first time they are given. They shall follow directions without argument or other displays of disagreement.  This

includes negative verbal and nonverbal behaviors, as well as facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice.

Negative, Non-verbal communication toward staff member (eye roll, lip smack, etc.)

Failure to comply with the request in a timely manner

Mocking teacher (imitating teacher in a mocking tone, mispronouncing teacher’s name, etc.)

Verbal argument upon request

Failure to comply with a request

Other

Consequences        Extended Day/Saturday School/Suspension

Cell Phone/Electronics Policy

Students are required to follow the school’s electronics policy at all times. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary consequences and/or confiscation of electronic devices.

Consequences        Loss of Privileges/Extended Day/Saturday School/Suspension

6.  Disruption

Students shall behave in a way that contributes to a positive, structured learning environment. Any behaviors which detract from a teacher’s ability to teach or a student’s ability to learn can be considered disruptive.

Talking at an inappropriate time during class

Creation of loud noise in the classroom

Behaving in a manner which adds to a negative situation

Any behavior in a hallway or common area that disrupts classroom instruction

Excessive talking in the classroom, despite repeated warnings

Other

Consequences        Loss of Privileges/Extended Day/Saturday School/Suspension

7. Dress Code

Students are required to dress in a manner that is safe, modest, and appropriate for their class or activity. Students should not dress in a manner that disrupts the learning environment.

Immodest Dress

Unsafe Dress

Other

The following attire is PROHIBITED during school hours

1. Over-sized, spandex, or extremely tight-fitting clothing. NO SAGGING PANTS.
2. See-through clothing or material that reveals undergarments.
3. Bare midriff, “crop tops”, halter tops, tank tops, tops with spaghetti straps, muscle shirts, and low-cut, revealing tops (no cleavage can be seen).
4. Undergarments worn on the outside of clothing.
5. Pajamas and/or loungewear, either tops or bottoms.
6. Clothing with tears, holes, or decorative patches that are deemed to be inappropriate.
7. Garments with inappropriate language, pictures, or suggestive references, including those relating to alcohol, tobacco, drugs, or sex.
8. Any dress that causes or is likely to cause a hostile, intimidating, degrading, offensive, harassing, or discriminatory environment.
9. Cleats, slippers, flip-flops, or stiletto heels; sandals must have back straps.
10. Spiked jewelry or chains.
11. Coats, jackets, and gloves may not be worn in school.
12. Hats and caps must be removed when entering the building; hoods on sweatshirts may NOT be worn covering the head.

Consequences        Put on Appropriate Clothing/Emergency Removal/Suspension

8. Drugs, Alcohol, Tobacco

Students shall not use, be under the influence of, possess, buy or sell, offer to buy or sell, or transmit drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products. This clause also forbids the possession of paraphernalia (pipes, lighters, etc.) or items that resemble any of these substances. Included in this rule, but not limited to, are the following:  cigarettes, cigars, snuff and chewing tobacco, alcohol, narcotics, hallucinogens, barbiturates, marijuana, inhalants, and look-alikes. Electronic cigarettes, vaping, and Juuls are also prohibited items.  In addition, students may not misuse a product containing a substance that can provide an intoxicating or mood-altering effect on school grounds, on school vehicles, and/or at any school-sponsored event.

Possession of drugs

Possession of alcohol

Possession of tobacco

Influence of drugs/alcohol

Use of drugs/alcohol

Intent to sell drugs, alcohol, or tobacco

Possession of paraphernalia

Other

Consequences        Emergency Removal/Mandatory Suspension/Police Notification/Recommendation for Expulsion

9. Gambling

Students may not participate in any form of betting or “games of chance”.

Consequences        Confiscation of Materials/Saturday School/Suspension

10. Harassment/Intimidation/Bullying

Students cannot engage in conduct (written, electronic, verbal, graphic, or physical) that causes physical or mental harm or places an individual in reasonable fear of physical or mental harm AND Is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment.  Harassment includes conduct such as slurs, repeated threats, jokes, intimidation, or any verbal, written, pictorial, or physical attack.

Verbal Harassment/Intimidation/Bullying

Written Harassment/Intimidation/Bullying

Graphic Harassment/Intimidation/Bullying

Physical Harassment/Intimidation/Bullying

Electronic Harassment/Intimidation/Bullying

Consequences        Emergency Removal/Suspension/Recommendation for Expulsion/Police Notification

11. Inappropriate Contact/Sexual Conduct

Students shall not kiss or participate in any form of sexual contact. This involves consensual and non-consensual behavior Included are such behaviors as kissing, holding hands, hugging, or other behaviors that can reasonably be considered inappropriate in a school setting.

Consensual kiss with peer

Consensual sexual contact

Non-consensual kiss or contact, or sexual contact

Other

Consequences        Warning/Extended Day/Saturday School/Suspension/ Recommendation for Expulsion

12. Inappropriate Language

Students are prohibited from using profanity or vulgarity in any form, including spoken or written words, pictures, text messages, and gestures.

Directed to another student (conversational tone)

Directed to another student (text or gesture)

Random use

Directed to another student (loudly, argument)

Directed to a staff member (conversational tone)

Directed to a staff member (loudly, argument)

Directed to a staff member (text or gesture)

Other

Consequences        Warning/Extended Day/Saturday School/Suspension/ Recommendation for Expulsion

13.  Physical Aggression/Fighting/Assault

Students shall keep their hands, feet, and objects within their control to themselves. Students are considered to be fighting when they punch or act violently toward another student. If only one student punches or acts violently toward the other, the incident is considered an assault.  Additional consequences may be added due to the severity, location, or disruptive nature of the fight or assault.

Minor action (slight push, trip, etc.)

Major action resulted in harm

Major action could have resulted in harm

Posturing, attempted to fight but were separated

Both students threw punches and/or acted aggressively

Only one student threw a punch/acted aggressively

Other

Consequences        Minor actions

                        Loss of Privileges/Extended Day/Saturday School/Suspension

Consequences         Major (all fights and assaults)

1st offense        5-day Suspension        

        2nd offense        7-day Suspension

        3rd offense        10-day Suspension and Recommendation for                        Expulsion

14.  Property Misuse/Vandalism

Students should use personal and/or school-owned items for their intended purpose only. Students should not cause or attempt to cause damage, defacement, or destruction of private or school property.

Student property, minimal, repairable damage

School property, minimal, repairable damage

Teacher property, any level of damage

Student property, major damage

School property, major damage

Technology, unauthorized use

Other

Consequences        Minimal Damage

Loss of Privileges/Restitution/Saturday School/Suspension

Consequences         Major Damage

Restitution/Suspension/Recommendation for Expulsion

15.  Reckless Behavior

Students must conduct themselves in a manner that contributes to a safe, orderly environment.

Injury of a staff member, no harm intended

Injury of a student, no harm intended

Creation of a dangerous situation (escalating problems, running in the hall, play-fighting, etc.)

Contact w staff member that does not result in injury

Contact w student that does not result in injury

Creation of a dangerous situation (running in the hall, play-fighting, etc.)

Consequences        Extended Day/Saturday School/Suspension/Recommendation for Expulsion

16.  Repeat Violations (Administrative Use Only)

Students who consistently engage in misconduct will receive escalating consequences.

Consequences        Suspension/Recommendation for Expulsion

17.  Tardy

Students should arrive on time to school and to all classes.   Students who arrive in class after the bell rings are tardy to class.  Students who arrive 4 minutes or later to class are not included in this rule.  Rather, they are included in the rule for Class Cut.

Consequences        Tardy 1                Teacher consequence

        Tardy 2                Teacher consequence

        Tardy 3                Teacher consequence and parent contact

        Tardy 4-5        Student receives a referral - Loss of

privileges/Extended Day/Other

        Tardy 6                Extended Day

        Tardy 7                Saturday School

18.  Theft/Unauthorized Possession

Students shall not steal another’s property.  No student shall steal, attempt to steal, remove or receive any item of personal or school property without permission

Theft of peer’s property (minimal monetary value, ie- pen, notebook, etc.)

Theft of peer’s property (significant monetary value)

Theft of teacher’s or school’s property (any value)

Other

Consequences        Confiscation/Restitution/Suspension/

                        Police Notification/Recommendation for Expulsion

19.  Threat to Staff/Student

Students shall not threaten or otherwise intimidate their peers or staff members.  A student shall not urge another student to threaten or intimidate another student or school district employee with physical violence.  

Student threatens a peer

Student threatens a staff member

Other

Consequences        Loss of Privileges/Suspension/Recommendation for Expulsion

20.  Unlawful Behavior

Students must follow all civil and criminal laws and regulations. School disciplinary action will be in addition to any action civil or juvenile authorities choose to take.  Unlawful acts may include, but are not limited to:  assault, battery, larceny, robbery, malicious mischief, unlawful assembly, disturbing public assembly, malicious threats, arson, malicious use of the telephone, false fire alarms, and extortion.

Consequences        Restitution/Suspension/Recommendation for Expulsion/Police Notification

Bus Behavior Guidelines and Consequences

The following section describes the rules and consequences that pertain to our students as they travel to and from school on district school buses.  Rules and consequences are divided into three categories according to their severity.

Class I Offenses

1. Spitting
2. Horseplay/Mischief that interferes with the safe operation of the bus
3. Eating/Drinking/Littering on bus
4. Leaving seat/standing without permission from the driver
5. Swearing, vulgarity, abusive language, obscene gestures directed at students or adults
6. Unauthorized school travel while on suspension or expulsion
7. Failing to comply with directives of school personnel, including failing to immediately identify oneself upon request to any school personnel
8. Other offenses as reported by the driver or principal

Consequences        1st offense        Warning or 1-5 days bus suspension

        2nd offense        5-10 day bus suspension

        3rd offense        Minimum 10-day bus suspension, possible                         loss of all bus service, parent/principal                         meeting is optional

        4th offense        Loss of bus service

Class II Offenses

1. Placing any object or body part outside of bus window
2. Throwing/shooting of any object
3. Physical aggression (fighting) against another person
4. Possession/use of tobacco or any controlled substance
5. Vandalism and/or destruction of school or personal property
6. Holding onto or attempting to hold onto any portion of the exterior of the bus
7. Other offenses as reported by the driver or principal

Consequences        1st offense        5-day bus suspension

        2nd offense        10-day bus suspension

        3rd offense        Minimum 10-day bus suspension, possible                        loss of all bus service, parent/principal                        meeting is optional

        4th offense        Loss of bus service

Class III Offenses

1. Possession/use of laser pens or pointers
2. Possession or threat of weapons/explosives/flammables/matches or lighters
3. Unauthorized entering or leaving through emergency door/tampering with the bus equipment

Consequence        1st offense        Loss of bus service

Information for Parents

1. Parents are not permitted to board the yellow school buses at any time.

2. Bus drivers shall determine assigned seats for all students riding the school bus.

Refusal of Transportation  Whenever it becomes necessary to deny or suspend a pupil from transportation service due to his/her misconduct, the school shall notify the parents of such suspension with a full explanation for this action in compliance with Section 3313.66, Ohio Revised Code.

APPEALS

Rights of Students and Parents

Edited Version of the Ohio Revised Code - Section 3313.66

Suspension, expulsion, and removal from premises:

1. The superintendent of schools of a city, exempted village, or a local school district, or the principal or unit principal of a public school may suspend a pupil from school for not more than ten school days.  If at the time a suspension is imposed there are fewer than ten school days remaining in the school year in which the incident that gives rise to the suspension takes place, the superintendent may apply any remaining part or all of the period of the suspension to the following school year.  No pupil shall be suspended unless prior to the suspension such superintendent or principal does both of the following:   (1) Gives the pupil written notice of the intention to suspend him/her and the reasons for the intended suspension and, if the proposed suspension is based on a violation listed in division (A) of section 3313.662 of the Revised Code and if the pupil is sixteen years of age or older, includes in the notice a statement that the superintendent may seek to permanently exclude the pupil if he/she is convicted of or adjudicated a delinquent child for that violation; and (2) Provides the pupil an opportunity to appear at an informal hearing before the principal, assistant principal, superintendent, or superintendent's designee and challenge the reason for the intended suspension or otherwise to explain his/her actions.

2. The superintendent of schools of a city, exempted village, or local school district may expel a pupil from school for a period not to exceed the greater of eighty school days, or the number of school days remaining in the semester, or term in which the incident that gives rise to the expulsion takes place unless the expulsion is extended pursuant to division (F) of the ORC.  If at the time an expulsion is imposed there are fewer than eighty school days remaining in the school year in which the incident that gives rise to the expulsion takes place, the superintendent may apply any remaining part or all of the period of the expulsion to the following school year.  No pupil shall be expelled unless, prior to his/her expulsion, the superintendent does both of the following: (1) Gives the pupil and his/her parent, guardian, or custodian written notice of the intention to expel the pupil; and (2) Provides the pupil and his/her parent, guardian, custodian, or representative an opportunity to appear in person before the superintendent or his/her designee to challenge the reasons for the intended expulsion or otherwise to explain the pupil's actions.

3. The notice required in this division shall include the reasons for the intended expulsion, notification of the opportunity of the pupil and his/her parent, guardian, custodian, or representative to appear before the superintendent or his/her designee to challenge the reasons for the intended expulsion or otherwise to explain the pupil's action and notification of the time and place to appear.  The time to appear shall not be earlier than three nor later than five school days after the notice is given.

4. The superintendent or principal, within one school day after the time of a pupil's expulsion or suspension, shall notify in writing the parent, guardian, or custodian of the pupil and the treasurer of the board of education of the expulsion or suspension.  The notice shall include the reasons for the expulsion or suspension, notification of the right of the pupil or his/her parent, guardian or custodian to appeal the expulsion or suspension to the board of education or to its designee, to be represented in all appeal proceedings, to be granted a hearing before the board or its designee in order to be heard against the suspension or expulsion  

5. A pupil or his/her parent, guardian, or custodian may appeal his/her expulsion or suspension by a superintendent or principal to the board of education or to its designee.  The pupil or his/her parent, guardian, or custodian may be represented in all appeal proceedings and shall be granted a hearing before the board or its designee in order to be heard against the suspension or expulsion.  At the request of the pupil, or his/her parent, guardian, custodian, or attorney, the board or its designee may hold the hearing in executive session but shall act upon suspension or expulsion only at a public meeting.  The board may, by a majority vote of its full membership or by the action of its designee, may affirm the order of suspension or expulsion, reinstate the pupil or otherwise reverse, vacate or modify the order of suspension or expulsion.

6. Emergency Removal:  If a student’s presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process either within a classroom or elsewhere on the school premises, the notice and hearing ordinarily required for suspension and expulsion can be temporarily waived.

The board or its designee shall make a verbatim record of hearings held under this division.  The decisions of the board or its designee may be appealed under Chapter 2506 of the Revised Code.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity in Education Policy

& Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Sex Policy

All students shall have an equal opportunity to learn and to participate in classes, educational programs, and extracurricular activities.  It is the policy of the Euclid Board of Education that students will not be discriminated against on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, disability, national origin (ethnicity), sexual orientation or military service.   A student or parent who feels this policy is being violated by another student, administrator, teacher, school employee, or third party doing business on Board property can report the violation to the building principal or, if the building principal is not available, you can contact a district compliance coordinator.

A copy of the Euclid Board of Education's Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity in Education and Employment Policy, Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Sex, and Reporting and Grievance Procedure for Complaints of Discrimination or Harassment can be obtained by contacting the building principal or, a District Compliance Coordinator.  These documents provide the grievance procedures for Title II, Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Section 504, and the ADA.

Anti-Harassment Policy

All students have the right to be free from unlawful harassment while a member of the School District Community.  It is the policy of the Euclid Board of Education that students will not be unlawfully harassed on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, disability, national origin (ethnicity), sexual orientation or military service.   A student or parent who feels this policy is being violated by another student, administrator, teacher, school employee, or third party doing business on Board property can report the violation to the building principal or, if the building principal is not available, you can contact a district compliance coordinator.

A copy of the Euclid Board of Education's Anti-Harassment Policy and Reporting and Grievance Procedure for Complaints of Discrimination or Harassment can be obtained by contacting the building principal or, a District Compliance Coordinator.  These documents provide the grievance procedures for Title II, Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Section 504, and the ADA.

Euclid City Schools District Compliance Coordinators

651 East 222nd Street

Euclid, Ohio 44123

Euclid Board of Education

Gabrielle Kelly, President
Pam Turos, Vice President

Evan Botzki

Tia Otoo
Selina Wright

District Administration

Christopher Papouras, Superintendent

Karen Brown, Assistant Superintendent

Tim Rosenbaum, Assistant Superintendent

Pat Higley, Treasurer