Midlothian High School Key Staff

A Message from Our Principal

Dear Midlo Family:

Welcome to Midlothian High School and the 2021-22 school year.  

I am beyond excited for this upcoming school year.  I am so fortunate to work with such a dedicated faculty and staff, talented and hardworking students, and of course, a supportive community.  Working together we certainly comprise a Community of Excellence.

As I enter my tenth year as principal of Midlothian High School I plan to work harder than ever to ensure each student receives a high quality education, preparing each student to be college and career ready. In addition, I am so fortunate to work with such a dedicated faculty and staff, who strive to provide students with an engaging and relevant education to help us all Imagine a Better Tomorrow.

Our students are known for consistently performing amongst the best high schools in the state of Virginia on the SOL, SAT, ACT, AP, and IB assessments. Beyond end of year assessments, it is my hope all students enjoy a high school experience which is academically challenging, memorable, and rewarding; serving as the foundation to academic and personal growth.

The Student Handbook has been carefully prepared to serve as a comprehensive guide to the procedures, programs, and activities of our school.  As Midlothian High School continues to foster a 21st century learning environment supported by chromebooks, the Student Handbook is provided electronically to all students.  The most updated version of the Student Handbook will be maintained on our school website.  Parents and students will be notified if a significant change is necessary.  A hard copy of the handbook is available upon request for a nominal fee which covers printing costs.

Please take the time to read the handbook carefully as it contains valuable information which is necessary to understanding our daily operations. When  this publication does not provide you the information you need, please contact a member of the administrative team, a counselor, or a teacher for help.

I look forward to supporting each of you to maximize your potential while attending Midlothian High School.

Sincerely,

Shawn A. Abel
Proud Principal

Imagine Tomorrow

Chesterfield County Public Schools continues to be cited as a model for excellence in public education. Educators from outside of our school division routinely visit our nationally recognized schools to learn more about what we are doing, how we are doing it and why we are doing it. Our outstanding teachers, support staff members and leaders are top-notch educators whom others seek to emulate. We are proud to be a school division others aspire to be like.

As a community leader, Chesterfield County Public Schools is preparing students for successful futures and creating a better tomorrow. Our award winning school division – which includes six National Blue Ribbon Schools, seven National Title I Distinguished Schools and six Middle Schools to Watch – is preparing every student to be college and career ready.

As we implement our new strategic plan, Imagine Tomorrow, Team Chesterfield is on the cusp of creating classrooms of the future that will allow our students to soar to even greater heights. Imagine Tomorrow is more than a strategic plan. It is our daily focus as we seek to create an infinite learner mindset while encouraging students and staff to exemplify personal responsibility and supportive relationships.

Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS)

PBIS is a framework which utilizes a proactive approach in supporting students socially, emotionally, and academically.  Midlothian High School has adopted the expectations that students RISE to the challenge of consistently demonstrating the values of our Community of Excellence by acting with  Responsibility, Integrity, Sincerity, and Equity.  By using a common language, as well as a continuum of school-wide instructional and behavioral supports, our hope is that students feel more connected and will RISE to their fullest potential.

Below is Midlothian High School’s PBIS behavior expectations:  

Bell Schedules

Bell schedules are subject to change.  Please please visit our Midlothian High School website for the most up to date schedules.  

Midlo Morning Bell Schedule

Regular Bell Schedule (No Midlo Morning)

Midlo Morning

Below is the MM rotation:

Midlo Morning (MM) is an academic enrichment period that will meet between 1st and 2nd period on designated school days.  All students are encouraged to use the time for subject enrichment, remediation, or silent study. Students will attend Midlo Morning by pre-assigned class periods on a consecutive rotating schedule.  Students must have either an A or a B letter grade in the assigned MM class to visit another classroom or to visit the library for MM periods 1 - 4.

If a student wants to work in another class during an assigned M/M period, that student must obtain a signed M/M pass from the teacher who also wants the student to attend their M/M.  Scheduled M/M teachers should not issue passes for students to go to another class and students should not be released to move among classes Monday - Thursday.

MM 0 (zero) is a time where students have the freedom to select the teacher they want to work with during MM. MM H (homeroom) will occur on designated Fridays, differing by class level and needs.  Freshmen will meet in MM H each Friday for the first semester of school (approximately).  Students must obtain a pass from their teacher when attempting to work in multiple classes during M/M 0 days.

Midlo Morning Library Procedures:

1. Reserve a spot for Midlo Morning via Google form that will auto generate your pass.
2. Your pass will be sent to you via email.
3. Passes are only available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.  No passes are available on Thursday.
4. You must report to your assigned Midlo Morning for required attendance.  

 **Your teacher is able to approve or deny permission
for you to leave the classroom.**

5. Once the maximum number of students receive their electronic pass, the form will automatically close.
6. You must have the electronic pass visible while traveling the hallways.

Just need to check out a book or print?

• Use bit.ly/midlolibraryservices to submit your request(s).
• a handwritten pass from your teacher to retrieve your item(s) from the library
• You will then return to class

Please visit the MIDLO MORNING TAB on the library’s website to find the reservation links.

No other passes will be accepted for Midlo Morning.

Midlothian High School

Important Dates

For the most updated calendar, please visit our school’s website at: 

midlothianhs.mychesterfieldschools.com

and click on the calendar link on the front page of the website

Midlo Traditions

Core Values - Each year parents are invited to join students who have been nominated by teachers as demonstrating the CCPS Core Values of Equity, Integrity, Ingenuity, and Teamwork through RISE up recognition breakfast celebrations.

Junior-Senior Prom - The juniors pool their creativity and talents to produce the premiere social event of the year.

Homecoming - Sponsored by the SCA, Homecoming consists of a week of spirit-filled activities highlighted by the presentation of the queen and her court at the Homecoming Football Game on Friday night.  A Homecoming Dance is held on Saturday night.

Pep Rallies - Midlo’s Pep Rallies are second to none!  Midlothian students come together to show their spirit. Other opportunities to do so are during spirit week and throughout the year at many extracurricular events.

SCA Picnic - As an end of the year celebration, the SCA hosts a cookout and picnic for all students and staff where everyone is treated to a hot dog lunch, fun, games, and music.

Senior Spirit Week - Seniors participate in a variety of themed activities throughout the week prior to graduation.

History

Midlothian High School, fully accredited by the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Education, has been a home of academic excellence for decades. In 1709, the community of Midlothian which is located eight miles west of Richmond was home to the first commercial coal mines in the United States and named by the miners from the shire of Mid-Lothian in Scotland.  In 1875, the school started in what is now a current residence on Salisbury Road.  In 1911, it was moved to Route 60 in the village of Midlothian, currently the home of Midlothian Middle School.  The “old building” saw many architectural and academic changes throughout the years.  The “new high school”, relocated to 401 Charter Colony Parkway, opened for the 1984-1985 school year.  Thousands of graduates have had the distinct honor of graduating from the renowned school, often called.  The high school became accredited in 1924 after graduating its first three students in 1923. During the years prior to 1966, the school housed grades one through twelve, and in 2001 added the curriculum of the International Baccalaureate Programme, broadening the curriculum choices for Chesterfield County Public School students.  

This year the comprehensive high school will graduate 472 students. The Class of 2021 has taken a combined total of 1,211 AP courses, 368 IB courses, 467 Dual Enrollment courses.  Based on the recently issued rankings from the US News & World Report, Midlothian High School is ranked in the top 6% of all public high schools nationally and #36 in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

COVID-19

Midlothian High School is committed to keeping our staff and students safe during the Coronavirus era. When the School Board determines that it is appropriate for students to return to school buildings, students will have to:

• Wear masks
• Maintain proper social distancing
• Follow hallway directional signage
• Use hand sanitizer/ Wash hands

Virtual Student Expectations (for CCPS Online)

Students at Midlothian High School are expected to adhere to the Student Code of Conduct while in virtual classes. The Student Code of Conduct and Honor Code will be enforced during virtual learning.   Students are expected to attend all their classes, positively participate, and complete and submit assignments.  Students must log in using their own CCPS authorized login.   Students are not required to have their cameras on during whole class meets, but do need to have the camera on for small group meets with the teacher. If you do  not have your camera on, you must have a school appropriate picture displayed.  During class meets students are prohibited from recording, taking screenshots, and taking pictures of the class.

Tips for online success:

1. Be on time.
2. Have a distraction free work space.
3. Be an active participant.
4. Be respectful (if it is not appropriate for the school building, it is not appropriate for the virtual classroom).
5. Communicate (Speak clearly, Stay on topic).
6. Think before you speak or type.

Academics

Grading Practices - Students should become knowledgeable regarding specific grading practices that each teacher employs and publishes in their Syllabus or on Canvas.  Criterion by which a student earns a grade in class is unique to each class.  

Grade Scale

Chesterfield County uses a 10-point grading scale. This scale is intended to make our students more competitive for college admissions and scholarships.

Academic Letter

An academic letter will be awarded to students who maintain high scholastic achievement.  The purpose of this program is to provide students an incentive to succeed in academics and to be recognized for that achievement.

The criteria for selection to receive an academic letter are:

1. Any student who, for each of the first three nine-week grading periods of a school  year, receives all A’s and/or B’s, will receive a chenille letter M.
2. Any student who, for each of the first three nine-week grading periods of a school year, receives all A’s will receive a gold star to be attached to the chenille letter or a chenille letter with an embroidered gold star.
3. Any student who meets the conditions stated in section one and who has already received a chenille letter will receive a gold bar to be attached to the letter.
4. Any transfer student must attend Midlothian High School at least one full nine-week grading period of the first three nine-week grading periods of a school year to be eligible for an academic letter.
5. A student must be enrolled in a minimum of five classes during the school year to be considered for an academic letter.

Senior academic recognition - A gold tassel will be awarded to seniors who maintain a cumulative weighted GPA of 4.0 or higher to be worn at Midlothian High School’s graduation ceremony.

Seniors who want to be considered for top twenty class rank honors must maintain a full schedule consisting of no less than seven courses in their senior year. Extenuating circumstances may be appealed to the principal.

ParentVUE/StudentVUE

ParentVUE and StudentVUE are web-based programs which allow parents and students to track attendance and academic progress via computer and mobile applications.

Using a confidential activation code, all parents/guardians with educational rights may access their individual ParentVUE account via a PC at parentvue.ccpsnet.net. Parents should use their individual accounts rather than using their student’s account when accessing the ParentVUE/StudentVUE system.  Parents new to the county will receive their codes during registration.  Please contact the main office with any activation code or ParentVUE questions. Students may access their StudentVUE account through their dashboard using their Chesterfield County Public Schools network login credentials.

ParentVUE and StudentVUE mobile apps are available for iOS devices at the iTunes App Store and for Android devices at Google Play.

Canvas

Canvas is a Learning Management System (LMS) with integrated learning products that support a dynamic, digital learning environment to meet the unique instructional needs of teachers and their students.  Canvas also provides visibility and tools for parents, school leaders, and division leaders to support effective teaching, learning, and communication.  Parents can access the CCPS Canvas for Parents and Guardians page for more information.  Parents can also create self-create accounts and enroll in their student’s Canvas classes as an observer by following the steps in this document. 

School Counseling

Ms. Loretta Speller, School Counseling Coordinator  (IB Students)

Ms. Christine Lawson (A - Ch)

Mr. Kevin Birmingham (Ci - Har)

Mr. Darnell Erby (Has - Mah)

Ms. Laura Brady (Mai - Ra & ESL students)

Ms. Natalie Harrison (Re - U)

Ms. Anna Redding (V - Z)

Mission Statement

Counselors can help students with:

• Academic planning an educational progress;
• Concerns that interfere with learning;
• Ability to cope with pressure;
• Interpreting test results and what they mean;
• Various school programs and community opportunities;
• College planning and technical training beyond high school.

The job of the School Counselor is to:

• Work with parents, students, and other school staff members;
• Work with students individually and in groups to help resolve problems that interfere with learning;
• Support students with special needs and may serve as a member of the Child Study team;
• Coordinate gifted program opportunities;
• Provide financial aid and scholarship information;
• Offer crisis intervention and prevention;
• Maintain contact with and make appropriate referrals to various community and social agencies;
• Plan and coordinate various school-wide programs for students and parents;
• Help students explore post graduation options and make plans for life after high school.

School counselors are prohibited from using counseling techniques which are beyond the scope of the professional certification or training of the counselors.  These techniques include hypnosis and other psycho-therapeutic techniques which are normally employed in medical/clinical settings that focus on mental illness or psychopathology.

The Chesterfield County Public School System affirms that parents/guardians are a child’s first teachers.  They have the right to direct the care, education, and development of their children.  Therefore, provisions are available where parents can elect to have their child not participate (opt-out) in classroom counseling.  

Further, provision shall be made for procedures requiring affirmative parental consent (opt-in) after a student’s initial contact for participation in small group or on-going, structured, individual personal/social counseling.  Parental permission is not required of individual counseling when required to maintain order, discipline, and a productive learning environment.  When parents/guardians fail to respond either affirmatively or negatively to documented reasonable requests for consent, the school officials may permit personal/social counseling for children whom they believe would benefit.

Counseling services are available through the following delivery systems:

• Core Curriculum - A series of classroom lessons conducted by the school counselors in the classrooms at each grade level to include learning experiences designed to promote academic, personal/social and career development for all students.

• Small Group Counseling - Available to students experiencing commonly shared concerns. Emphasis is upon problem-solving and the development of positive attitudes and effective personal skills. The delivery system for small group counseling is "opt-in” for Standard of Learning Objective at all levels.

• Responsive Services - Responsive services are activities designed to meet students’ immediate needs and concerns. Responsive services may include counseling in individual or small-group settings or crisis response..

Parent/guardian permission is not required for short duration personal/social counseling which is needed to maintain order, discipline or a productive learning environment.

Written notification, at least annually, will be sent to parents/guardians about the academic, career, personal/social guidance, and counseling programs which are available to their children. The notification shall include the purpose and general description of the programs, information regarding ways parents/guardians may review materials to be used in counseling programs and information about the procedure by which parents/guardians may limit their child’s participation in such programs.

Records of on-going, structured, personal/social counseling with a student shall be kept confidential and separate from a student’s educational records and will not be disclosed to third parties without prior parental consent or as otherwise required by law. Parents/guardians may request to review this confidential record by contacting the school counselor. The counselor will make the records available within five (5) working days.

Class Standing - In order for a student to be considered a member of a specific class and to be promoted from one grade level to the next, a certain number of credits must be earned:

• Sophomore status - students must have 5 credits
• Junior status - students must have 11 credits
• Senior status - students must have earned enough credits to be considered a candidate for June graduation.

Other Student Services

Midlothian students may require the assistance of a number of different resources, some of which are described below.   Individuals may be referred through an administrator, teacher, counselor, or parent/guardian. Contact the school counseling office for assistance.

School Support Team - A group of professionals who are organized to help students who are experiencing problems in one or more of the following areas: attendance, academic performance, family problems, known or suspected alcohol or other drug involvement, behavior issues, and/or social problems. A team approach is used to evaluate student problems and develop ways to provide assistance. Contact the school counseling office for assistance.

Tutoring Services – CCPS Office of Family and Community Engagement has a list of tutors for all subject areas.  You can access the list on the CCPS High School Tutors webpage.

Student Emergency Hotlines -

Alcohol Abuse and Crisis Intervention:  800-234-0246

Chesterfield County 24-hour Crisis Line:  804-748-6356

Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741-741

National Dating Abuse Helpline:  866-331-9474

National Drug Information Treatment and Referral Hotline:  800-662-HELP

National Suicide Prevention Hotline:  800-273-8255

National Suicide Prevention Hotline in Spanish:  888-628-9454

Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance: 800-838-8238

Dual Enrollment

Concurrent and dual enrollment opportunities are widely available across CTE programs in Chesterfield County Public Schools. Dual enrollment programs allow qualifying students to earn college credit for coursework completed at the high school level for a significantly reduced cost. Concurrent enrollment allows a student to earn college credit by taking a class at the college while in high school. The college credits are offered in partnership with the Virginia Community College System and other institutions of higher learning. Typically the credits can be applied toward a course of study at the granting institution, giving students a boost in their post-secondary studies and career preparation.

Schedule Changes

The administration makes every effort to correct mistakes that have been made in scheduling.  Schedules cannot be altered because a student changes his/her mind or wants to avoid a particular teacher.  Midlothian High School along with parents/guardians can be powerful allies in teaching students the importance of making good choices and the commitment that needs to be developed in order to be successful. The deadline for schedule changes was April 14, 2021.

When there are extenuating circumstances for a schedule change, the student must meet with his/her counselor to discuss the impact of the request.  

The School Counseling Coordinator will either grant or deny the request based on the following criteria:

• Student work ethic and student progress in the class;
• Teacher observations and recommendations;
• Attendance to the class;
• Extra efforts to make progress, such as tutoring and attending help sessions;
• Space available in other classes;
• Past academic history and test scores.

Note:  If a senior is allowed to drop a class after September 17th, 2021, a grade of WF will be recorded on the permanent record.  Students in grades 9, 10, and 11 will not be allowed to drop a class without an extenuating circumstance and will incur academic penalty.

Withdrawals

Please notify the School Counseling Office if your child needs to be withdrawn from school.  Please return materials, textbooks, and chromebook (with charger) to Midlothian High School so as to not incur charges at the time of withdrawal.

Students will be automatically withdrawn from school after being absent fifteen (15) consecutive school days.

Exam Exemption Procedures

Exam exemptions are a privilege that must be earned.

Students who have extenuating circumstances and are unable to take their exam at the pre-scheduled date/time must submit a signed parent letter in writing to the Principal.  These letters are due no later than May 6, 2022 for second semester exams.  Only the Principal can give permission to reschedule an exam; rescheduling of an exam will be coordinated through the attendance office.

Students are required to take examinations each semester on the semester’s work in each subject.  One  hundred and ten minutes are allowed for each examination and the exam  schedule will be announced in advance.  

A class roster must have a minimum of 75% seniors to administer the class exam during senior exam week.  Underclassmen in these classes must take the exam during the senior exam block unless approved by the Principal.  Requests must be submitted through the attendance office.

Seniors - Seniors who pass an SOL assessment are exempt from the corresponding exam. The Chesterfield County School Board utilizes SOL test scores in the computation of grades and/or exam exemptions if the score improves the student’s grade.  However, students may elect to take the final exam for an SOL class in which they have already passed the SOL test. Any such student who has not earned a D or higher in the class may be required to take the final exam.

Eligibility for exam exemption for non-SOL courses or if the senior has not successfully passed the SOL:

1. Senior students must have an A or B semester/final average in the class:
2. The senior student shall not have been absent from class more than five (5) times to first period and three (3) times for all block classes, prior to the assigned exam date;

1. A student is considered absent if they miss half or more of a class period;
2. All absences are counted, excused or unexcused.  School sanctioned activities do not count as an absence;

3. In addition and counted separately, the student shall not have been tardy to class more than five (5) times to first period class and three (3) times for block classes, prior to the assigned exam date;
4. Seniors enrolled in an AP/IB course may exempt the teacher’s final exam upon completion of the corresponding assessment while also meeting the attendance expectations stated above and a C or higher in the assigned AP/IB course.

*Exemption attendance policies will be in effect during virtual learning (if needed).

Underclassmen- Students who pass an SOL assessment are exempt from the corresponding exam. The Chesterfield County School Board utilizes SOL test scores in the computation of grades and/or exam exemptions if the score improves the student’s grade.  However, students may elect to take the final exam for an SOL class in which they have already passed the SOL test. Any such student who has not earned a D or higher in the class may be required to take the final exam;

Underclassmen enrolled in an AP/IB course may exempt the teacher’s final exam upon completion of the corresponding assessment and items 1-3 listed under the Senior Exam Exemption section.  Underclassmen must maintain a B or higher for the 2nd semester.

* All students (including seniors) enrolled in an AP/IB course who do not take the AP/IB assessment will be required to complete the teacher’s course examination.  

Senior Exam Exemption Appeals - Exemption appeals will be considered based on the following guidelines:

1. If a senior student has 10 or more absences to first period or 6 or more for block classes they are not eligible to appeal.
2. Only absences for extenuating circumstances will be considered by the committee.  Family vacations, trips, and college visits are not considered extenuating circumstances.
3. No appeal will be considered without complete documentation for every absence from the class.
4. Students may request an attendance profile from the attendance office as documentation for appeals. Requests must be made at least 24 hours prior to the appeal due date.
5. No appeal will be considered if the form, along with full and complete documentation, is not turned in to the main office by May 6, 2022, as outlined on the exam exemption form.  Forms will be available in the front office and on the school website by April 25, 2022.  

Underclassmen Exam Exemption Appeals - Underclassmen may only appeal an exam exemption if the student completed an AP or IB assessment and met the following criteria.  

1. Students must have an A or B semester/final average in the class:
2. Students must produce medical documentation to support any absences which contributed to the student exceeding the maximum number of absences permitted.

If an underclassmen did not take an AP or IB assessment, an appeal will not be considered.

Transcripts

Transcripts contain only final letter grades. Based upon final averages, a cumulative grade point average is computed at the end of each year. Class rank, based on cumulative GPA, is obtained for each student at the end of the sophomore year. Transcripts are provided through the web-based program, Parchment. Once a parent release form is signed, seniors will be provided with an access code to set up an account.

The Virginia Department of Education requires that ALL college entrance standardized tests such as the ACT, SAT, and TOEFL received by the high school must be included on a student’s transcript. Chesterfield County High Schools post these test scores on the transcript about six (6) weeks after the test administration. To ensure that colleges/universities/organizations receive an official, timely, and accurate report of standardized testing results, students must have their test scores sent directly from the test center.

Career Center

The Career Center, located in the library, is the focal point for research in the areas of college choices, financial aid, career decisions, summer opportunities, military options, and job searches.  It is open from 8:10am to 4:00pm daily.  For College and Career center questions, please contact Mrs. Martin.

Pertinent college and career pathway information is available to students and parents.  Additionally, the Career Center sponsors special events such as College Night, Alumni Day, Financial Aid information programs, and college representative visits--all of which are designed to give students an opportunity to meet one-on-one with professionals in particular areas of interest.

Parents and students may contact the school counseling office to receive assistance with registering for either the SAT or ACT assessment.

Below are tables of AP, PSAT, SAT, SAT Subject Tests, and ACT dates:

Emergency Plans

An emergency can occur at any time in a school environment. In all cases, the most important consideration is the health, safety, and welfare of the students and staff. With this in mind, the Midlothian High School Emergency Plan has been developed in conjunction with the Chesterfield County Public School Crisis Management Plan.

School Closings - Inclement weather may make it necessary to close schools early or all day. As soon as this need is determined, local media outlets, CCPS website, and the CCPS phone and email system will communicate updates and announcements.

Emergency Evacuation - The standard signal for the need to immediately evacuate the building is an announcement over the PA system or a loud pulsing horn and flashing lights.  

When the signal to evacuate the building is given, please observe the following:

• Close windows and doors;
• Disconnect electrical appliances, make experiments safe;
• Leave the room in an orderly manner following the evacuation plan posted in the classroom;
• Exit, staying close to the side of the hall nearest the classroom;
• Move a safe distance from the building (do not block roads or areas needed by emergency equipment);
• Stay with your class and listen for your teacher to verify attendance;
• Report any missing classmates to your teacher immediately;

The all-clear signal to return to the building will be three tones of the regular school tone.

Imminent Threat - In the event of certain emergency situations an alert message “LOCK DOWN” is announced to indicate that protective action needs to be taken.  

Upon hearing the lock down signal, teachers and students will follow the ALARM protocol:

A - Active Response

Each person needs to be prepared to take actions to protect themself and nearby students.

L - Lockdown

If in a defensible location and there is warning or alarm of an attack, lockdown may be the best option and should include barricading the door and being prepared for an Active Response.

A - Alert Others

Anyone who becomes aware of an attack should alert others in any way possible.

R - Run

Move away from danger toward a safer location.

M - Make a Decision and Act On It!

There is no better or worse answer when it comes to what to do in an attack. Every threat or attack is different, and a specific response cannot be planned.

Video Surveillance

As a component of a comprehensive safe school plan, video surveillance will be used in the common areas of Midlothian High School and on school buses to maintain the security of students, staff members, and visitors.  Surveillance equipment may be monitored at any time.  Video recordings also may be used for disciplinary purposes.  Law enforcement representatives in the course of a criminal investigation may view video recordings.

Media Center – Library

Books and Magazines are available for checkout.

Students can check out up to 5 items at a time.

A copy machine is available for use; the fee for items copied is $0.10 per copy.

A B&W printer is available for use; the fee for items printed is $0.10 per page.

A color printer is available for use; the fee for items printed is $0.25 per page.

Students are responsible for returning library materials on or before the date due.

Seniors who have fines and/or overdue materials will not be able to pick up graduation tickets until their library account is resolved. 

A $0.10 per day fine is charged for books which are overdue. Charges are assessed on lost/damaged library materials per incident.

Students visiting the library without a teacher must have an individual pass from the subject area teacher and a definite assignment from the teacher requiring the use of library materials. All students must sign in at the circulation desk upon arrival in the library. 

The library staff encourages students to use the library’s resources for meeting instructional needs and for personal reading.  A librarian is available to assist students in utilizing media center resources and services.  All school rules apply in the library.  

Clinic - Medications

If it is necessary for a student to receive medication during school hours, parents should contact the school for more information on the medication policy.

Under School Board Policy 4130 and its accompanying regulation 4130-R, all medications and refills must be brought to school by a parent or guardian. Prescription medication requires a written doctor’s order. Parents must sign a student medication administration request form. Except as provided in Policies 4130 and 4130- R, students found with medication are subject to disciplinary action as described in the Standards for Student Conduct and Attendance. Prescription medication must be in the original container labeled by a pharmacist.

Over-the-counter medication must be in a new, unopened container. Parents of a student with a chronic health condition must provide to the school clinic all medication prescribed by a healthcare provider and related supplies/equipment in the student’s emergency action plan, keeping both refilled as needed throughout the school year. Parents should be aware that medication is not accessible from the clinic during ‘before- or after-school’ activities. At the end of each school year, parents must pick up their child’s medication from the school or it will be discarded. The deadline to pick up medication will be announced in May.

Computer Use

Computer equipment is part of the school property and students who abuse or misuse this equipment are subject to disciplinary action.  Abuse/misuse of this equipment is defined as:

• Rough or improper treatment of the equipment causing it to break, malfunction, or be otherwise inoperative;
• Copying, deleting, or tampering in any way with other user’s files, program files, or programs;
• Logging onto a network with another user’s ID;
• Operating a networked computer outside of the network shell without specific permission;
• Programming a computer in an irresponsible way causing unnecessary delays or memory damage;
• Copying or attempting to copy a copyright protected program;
• Using applications for non-instructional purposes (ie. playing computer games and downloading music);
• Failure to follow Regulation 7320 and School Board Policy 7200.

Chromebook Expectations

Students at Midlothian High School are expected to adhere to the Mobile Device Usage Agreement, the expectations of the Chesterfield Public Schools Standards for Student Conduct and Attendance handbook and follow the guidelines of appropriate digital citizenship.  More  information can be found at the CCPS website for Anytime-Anywhere-Learning.  

Additional guidelines are as follows:

• All Chromebooks are to remain closed in the hallways;
• All pictures or videos are to be used for instructional purposes ONLY and may not be obtained without consent;
• Students are expected to come prepared to class with Chromebooks fully charged at the beginning of each day. Student charge cords should not be brought to school;
• Students must report Chromebook issues immediately to their teacher and the Chromebook help desk or an administrator;
• Students who misuse or fail to bring a fully charged and working Chromebook may receive disciplinary consequences.

Chromebook Help Desk:

The Chromebook help desk (located in the open commons by the auxiliary gym) is available daily to assist students with Chromebook repairs.  Hours of operation will be posted upon return to in person learning.

Internet access:  

Please contact the school if you do not have access to the internet.

Network Access

Chesterfield County Schools provide access to the internet via the CCPSNet.  The responsible use of computers and computer networks is a powerful tool in support of the instructional programs.  Regulation 7230 outlines acceptable and unacceptable use of the CCPSNET; a wide area network linking the schools, offices, and the Internet.  The CCPSNET is established solely for educational purposes.

Any use of the CCPSNET for commercial purposes, political lobbying, illegal, inappropriate, or obscene purposes or in support of such activities is prohibited.  Illegal activities shall be defined as a violation of local, state, or federal laws.  Inappropriate use shall be defined as a violation for the intended use of the network, including the intentional introduction of viruses, corruption of systems, files, and resources.

Any use of the CCPSNET for purposes in conflict with approved School Board policies and procedures is prohibited.  School Board Policy 7200 prohibits the illegal copying of documents, software, and other materials.

USB Removable Storage Devices

USB Removable Storage Devices may be used for educational purposes only. Any storage device that comes into a CCPS building may be collected and reviewed at any time.

Transportation

Buses - School bus routes and stops are established by the Chesterfield County Public Schools Transportation Department.  Students riding buses are not allowed to leave the bus at any stop other than their regular stop, nor are they allowed to ride a different bus than their regular bus unless they have a note from their parents pre-approved by the school office.  

Permission requests must be submitted to the front office upon arrival to school;  permission may not be granted during dismissal time.  Requests must contain the date, the student’s name and student ID number, person with whom the student is requesting to ride, the requested bus number, a parent signature, and a parent phone number and must be approved by the main office.

Buses load and unload in the bus loop which goes around the student parking lot.  Private vehicles are not allowed in the area between 8:10 am - 9:40 am and 2:10 pm - 3:40 pm

Bus Discipline - The school bus driver is responsible for maintaining discipline of passengers on the school bus. The following countywide discipline policy has been adopted by the CCCP Transportation Department to help fulfill this important responsibility.  Copies of this policy are posted on the school bus at all times. Students who misbehave on the bus may be suspended from riding the bus and will have to provide their own transportation, or the student may receive other consequences from administration.

Bus Expectations:

• Follow directions the first time they are given;
• Keep all objects and your body inside the bus at all times;
• Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself;
• Stay in seat with feet on the floor while the bus is in motion;
• Use appropriate language and volume;
• Honor the bus space and clean up after yourself ;
• Disruptive items may be confiscated by an administrator.

Private Vehicle Parking - Since the county furnishes bus transportation for all students, parking and driving on the Midlothian High School property is a special privilege. School officials reserve the right to suspend or revoke this privilege to anyone who willfully disobeys traffic laws, misuses the vehicle, endangers the safety of himself or others, or fails to comply with parking regulations or school rules.  Parking Applications must be submitted and approved before students may park on school grounds. A parking permit is issued by the school to indicate the privilege has been approved.

Parking is allowed by permit only.  A car without a displayed permit may be towed at the owner’s expense.

1. All vehicles parked on school property must be registered with the school and display the current permit on the rear view mirror;
2. Loitering in the parking lot is not permitted;
3. All parking lots are off-limits to students during the school day.  Students needing to retrieve items from vehicles may obtain approval from the main office;
4. All student drivers and vehicles must have a valid registration in the Commonwealth of Virginia;
5. The school assumes no liability for the automobile or its contents;
6. Reckless driving on school grounds, improper parking, and/or littering may result in loss of parking privilege;
7. Students may only park in the parking lot on the north side of the school adjacent to the football stadium; exceptions may be made on a case by case basis and must be approved by the Principal or designee;
8. Students driving to school have a responsibility to be punctual each morning.  Student drivers who are consistently late to school and/or who carry other students who are consistently late to school may be denied the privilege of driving to school and have their parking privileges revoked;
9. All school fines (past and current) must be cleared prior to the purchase of a parking permit.

Due to space limitations, we will not be able to sell parking passes to sophomore or freshman students.  These students will not be permitted to drive nor park on school property. 

“Use & Lose” - Students violating School Board policy regarding alcohol or other illegal or controlled substances, regardless of the time or place of violation, shall lose all parking privileges for a period of at least 365 days from the date of the violation. Additionally, the student and their parent must meet with the Coordinator of Student Conduct and show evidence of rehabilitation before applying for any subsequent parking privilege.

Attendance Policy

The School Board holds the position that school attendance is directly related to academic achievement and the development of good habits which are important in the world of work.  Optimum student attendance is a cooperative effort and the School Board expects parents and students to take an active role in accepting the responsibility for good attendance. The Chesterfield County Standards for Student Conduct addresses the overall philosophy and policy for all county schools.  This publication is provided to all students and parents at the beginning of each school year. or you may also refer to School Board Policy 4020.   

Attendance Notes - Attendance notes for tardy, early dismissal, or absence should have the student’s name, student ID#, the date the note was written, the date of tardy/absence or date and time of dismissal, reason for tardy/dismissal/absence, a parent/guardian signature, and a parent/guardian contact phone number.  Click HERE for an optional standardized note for your convenience. Attendance notes are expected to be turned in to the attendance office on the first day the student returns to school. Attendance notes will be accepted up to/but no longer than 30 days after the absence.

Attendance for Athletic Participation and Extracurricular Activities - In order to participate in an athletic practice/match/game, or other extracurricular activity,  students must be in attendance at school a minimum of half the day on the day of the contest or activity.  Students must have a valid, documented excuse for the tardy or absence.

Daily Attendance - There are times when a student is unable to attend school.  Each parent or guardian having charge of a child enrolled in Chesterfield County Public Schools shall notify (via phone call, written note, or email to school) the school each day their child is absent all or part of any school day with a reason acceptable to the school administration.  An automated call will go to the primary parent phone number whenever a student is absent or tardy to school.

Absences and tardies that may be considered excused upon parent notification to school include:

1. Illness (if over two days, the school may require a note from a licensed healthcare provider);
2. Medical and dental appointments;
3. Court appearance;
4. Death in the family;
5. Extenuating circumstances, which may include absence(s) for non-school division related activities, as determined by the school administration; and,
6. An absence from school resulting from a suspension or expulsion.

Excessive Absences, Tardies, and Early Dismissals - Excessive absences are those which cause a student’s attendance to be lower than a rate of 95%.  A student who displays a pattern of excessive absences, tardies, or early dismissals, whether excused or not, may be referred to the principal or designee who shall investigate and recommend appropriate corrective action, including a conference with the parent or guardian, alternative placement, or referral to the appropriate agencies.

For any student whose absences exceed, during a school year, more than ten (10) class periods of a course scheduled daily or five (5) class periods of a course on the block schedule, the principal or designee may require a conference with the parent or legal guardian to discuss the implications for learning and achievement, the consequences of failure to attend, and any corrective actions to be made.  Furthermore, the principal or designee may require documentation beyond the written excuse, such as a doctor’s note.

Any student whose absences (excused or unexcused) exceed, during a school year, twenty (20) class periods of a course scheduled daily or ten (10) class periods for a block class will not receive credit for the course unless the student completes tutoring (seat time) or an alternate learning module as prescribed by the principal or designee.  If a student exceeds the maximum number of absences per the procedure stated above, a letter will be issued to the parent and student requiring the student to complete seat time.  

Additionally, students who are not making adequate progress toward the completion of accrued seat time hours may not be permitted to participate in extracurricular activities such as, but not limited to, prom, graduation, athletics, and field trips.

The principal may waive this requirement upon consideration of extenuating circumstances. This consequence complies with the state Standards for Accrediting Public Schools that define the standard for awarding course credit for graduation.

Any student with excessive absences may be prohibited from participating in extracurricular activities. Students with extenuating circumstances and supporting documentation may appeal in writing to the Principal.

In addition to any other actions taken pursuant to this policy, if a student who is under 18 years of age has 10 or more unexcused absences from school on consecutive school days, the principal may notify the juvenile and domestic relations court, which may take action to suspend the student’s driver’s license.

Advanced Absences - Students who know in advance that they will not be in attendance at school for any reason are encouraged to prearrange and complete assignments with each teacher immediately.  Advanced Absence forms are available in the main office and must have administrative approval.  

Early Dismissals - For students requesting an early dismissal, the school must receive parent/guardian notification stating the student’s name, time, date, and reason for the request (see Attendance Notes). A dismissal slip will be issued to the student to be presented to the teacher at the time of dismissal.  Students shall be dismissed only on the request and authorization of the parent or legal guardian.  Notes must be presented to the attendance office prior to 8:30 am.  Students shall not be released during the school day to any person not authorized by the student’s parent or legal guardian. Students returning to school must check back in with the attendance office.

Students may not be dismissed during an exam/school wide testing block (e.g. AP/IB, SOL testing, etc.) as this disrupts the testing environment. Students may be dismissed during the break time prior to the next exam.

Activity Days  - When there is a school wide event (pep rally, student-teacher basketball game, powder puff football, etc.) we are unable to dismiss students from school after 1:55pm.  

Illness at School - Students who become ill while in school shall be sent to the clinic for assessment.  Should the student be unable to return to class, the clinic attendant will contact the parent. Students leaving school early for an illness need to obtain a dismissal permit from the attendance office or clinic prior to leaving school grounds. Students leaving school early for an illness may not return to school without a parent or guardian notifying the school.

Early Release Students - Seniors who earned all verified credits may be considered for early release.  Students enrolled in a work program or seniors who do not have a full schedule are expected to leave the school grounds within five (5) minutes of their last scheduled class. Failure to do so may cause the early release privilege to be revoked.  Students may not return to school unless prior permission from the administration is obtained.  Students competing for GPA rank in the top 20 of the class may not be scheduled for early release or late arrival unless a scheduling conflict exists.

Tardy Procedure - Tardiness to school (and class) disrupts the instructional day. Students tardy to school, arriving to school after 8:30 am, must enter school through door #1 and report directly to the attendance office for an admittance permit to class.  Students who do not provide parent notification with an excused reason will be given an unexcused tardy permit.  The following reasons will be considered as an excused tardy: court/legal appointments, illness, doctor/dentist appointment, death in the family, religious observation, and other reasons pre-approved by administration. The following guidelines will be followed for all unexcused tardies:

1. 3rd (block class) / 5th (first period) tardy: The teacher will warn the student and contact the parent.
2. 4th (block class) / 6th (first period) tardy: Administrative lunch detention shall be assigned.
3. 5th (block class) / 7th (first period) tardy:  Two administrative lunch detentions shall be assigned with possible loss of parking privileges.
4. 6th (block class) / 8th (first period) tardy:  After school detention shall be assigned with possible loss of parking privileges.
5. 7th (block class) / 9th (first period) tardy:  Saturday detention shall be assigned with possible loss of parking privileges
6. 8th (block class) / 10th (first period) tardy:  Two after school detentions and one week of lunch detentions may be assigned with possible loss of parking privileges.
7. 9th (block class) / 11th (first period) tardy and beyond:  Required parent conference with student and administrator.  An Administrator may assign further disciplinary consequences.

Accumulated tardies will reset at the conclusion of the first semester for all students.

10 Minute No Movement Rule - Believing that it is vital students are present at the beginning of class, as well as the conclusion, Midlothian High School will implement a ten-minute no movement procedure.  This rule means that students are not to leave the classroom during the first and last 10 minutes of each class.  Only students in need of emergency support will be permitted to leave during these time periods.

Make Up Work Procedures

For students in grades 9 through 12, all missed work that is submitted, but not within the time limit established by the teacher and described in their syllabus, will receive a grade in accordance with the teacher’s published late-work protocol. All work assigned prior to the absence is due the day the student returns to school.  The principal or his/her designee, however, may consider extenuating circumstances in extending the time limit. A teacher, with prior notice to students, may lower the grade on work that is submitted after it is due even if the late work is not the result of a student’s absence.

Guidelines for grading make up work:

• Absence due to a school sponsored activity -Maximum grade of 100%;
• Excused absences - Maximum grade of 100%;
• Unexcused absences (no parental written communication) - Based on teacher’s published late work protocol in their syllabus.

Special Cases:

• Test/quizzes and other work assigned prior to a student’s absence, but given or due during an absence must be taken or turned in on the day the student returns to school;
• Homework, classwork, and other daily work assigned during an absence are due the next class meeting;
• Term papers, essays, and major projects are to be turned in on the due date assigned regardless of the student’s attendance.  Students are encouraged to email their teacher, submit work electronically, or send work with another student when absent on the due date of such an assignment;
• Students shall meet with teachers upon their return to school to immediately arrange to make up missed work.

Discipline Policy

Recognizing that students have both rights and responsibilities in a learning environment, the School Board adopted standards for student conduct with applicable disciplinary procedures. The Chesterfield County School Board expects a high standard of student conduct in an effort to ensure that education is provided in an atmosphere conducive to learning, free of disruption and threat to person or property, and supportive of individual rights. The CCPS discipline policy is contained in the school system’s Standards for Student Conduct distributed to students at the beginning of each school year.

The School Board expects a high standard of student conduct in an effort to ensure an atmosphere conducive to teaching and learning, free of disruption and threat to person or property, and supportive of individual rights. Students and staff have a primary responsibility for creating a climate of mutual respect, honesty, and trust in each school in order that the dignity of the individual is protected and the potential of each student may be realized. These standards will apply to students while in or on school property including on any school bus or other school vehicle, when at any school-sponsored activity or field trip regardless of location, and when going to and returning from school. Students may also be disciplined for acts committed in virtual classrooms, away from school property, and outside school hours if the conduct is detrimental to the safety of the school or the well being of students or staff, adversely affects school climate or discipline, or disrupts the learning environment. These standards shall also apply to conduct off school property, when the act leads to: (1) notification pursuant to Va. Code Sec. §16.1-305.1 or a conviction for an offense listed in Va. Code Sec. §16.1-260; or (2) a charge that would be a felony if committed by an adult.

Discipline Violations and Consequences - Students found to be in violation of the Standards for Student Conduct as defined by the Chesterfield County School Board Policy 4010-R will be disciplined using the referral system.  Action taken by the administration will depend on the number of referrals and/or the severity of the offense.  Teachers are encouraged to counsel students, make parental contacts for minor violations, and assign teacher detentions.  Major offenses will be dealt with as determined by the administration.

Detentions - Any student assigned detention will be apprised of their misconduct and issued a letter at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled detention.  The form must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to the individual assigning the detention at the time of the detention.  Should a student be absent from school on the day of the assigned detention, they will be expected to serve the detention the day they return to school.  Having extracurricular or employment commitments do not constitute an excuse from detention.  Students are reminded that those serving detention must arrange their own transportation home.  Additional consequences may be assigned for failing to serve an assigned detention.

Teacher Detention - A student may be assigned to serve a detention with the teacher after proper notification.  Any student who does not attend an assigned teacher detention may be referred to an administrator.

Administrative Lunch Detention - A student assigned administrative lunch detention must bring their lunch and report to room 317A for their designated lunch period within five minutes of the start of the lunch period. 

Administrative Detention - Administrative detention will be held on designated days from 3:10pm - 4:10pm.  Students assigned an administrative detention may be given a special assignment for general assistance to the school facility that may include such tasks as grounds maintenance, building cleanup, etc.

Saturday Detention - Saturday detention will be held on designated days from 9:00am - 12:00pm.  Students assigned a Saturday detention may be given a special assignment for general assistance to the school facility that may include such tasks as grounds maintenance, building cleanup, etc.

In-School Detention - A student may be removed from their regular schedule of classes and assigned to a classroom for the entire day or for a reasonable period of time.

Suspensions - A student may be suspended from school for violation of CHESTERFIELD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS regulations as set forth in VA. Code §§ 22.1-277, 22.1-277.04, 22.1-277.05. A student shall not be permitted to participate in any school-sponsored activities while suspended. The principal may impose up to a ten-day suspension as deemed appropriate. A recommendation for suspension in excess of ten days or expulsion will be forwarded to the Superintendent’s designee. Regularly scheduled school days that have been canceled by the Superintendent due to unforeseen circumstances do not count toward completing the assigned out-of-school suspension.

Out-of-School Suspension Guidelines

1. A student suspended out-of-school is excluded from all school activities including extracurricular activities for the period of the suspension;
2. A suspended student may not enter any school building in Chesterfield County or come on any school property during the period of suspension except with the prior permission of the Principal;
3. Any student who is suspended out of school from any Chesterfield County school and who is also enrolled in the Chesterfield Technical Center will be deemed to be suspended from both their home school and the Technical Center.  A student enrolled in a work cooperative education program who is suspended may be also restricted from employment during the tenure of his/her suspension;
4. Students may be suspended from school for one to ten days depending on the severity of the offense;
5. Students suspended because of drug and alcohol violations will be suspended from participation in or attendance at all after school or school sponsored activities for a period of 45 school days beginning with the date of suspension.  A student violating this policy when fewer than 45 days remain in the school year will complete the remaining days of suspension from the first day of the next school year.  A student suspended for the possession, use, or being under the influence of illegal substances and/or alcohol may have this requirement waived by an assistant superintendent or designee if the parent(s) or guardian presents evidence of appropriate substance abuse screening and intervention;
6. Students suspended because of drug and/or alcohol violations will lose their parking privileges for a period of 365 days beginning with the date of suspension.

Procedure for Appealing Out-of-School Suspensions - See Standards of Student Conduct handbook

Bullying - Any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. "Bullying" includes cyber bullying, but does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.

Midlothian High School wants all individuals to feel safe in our building and takes a strong stance against bullying/disrespect.  All reported instances of disrespect will be investigated and appropriate consequences will be assigned.

Speak Up, Promote Respect - Students who feel they are being treated unkindly/disrespected or witness or know someone who is being disrespected, are asked to speak with a teacher or staff member or go to Midlo Speak Up. Promote Respect website.  If you witness another student being disrespected, ask the student to stop and alert a staff member about the issue. Students are the first line in stopping and preventing disrespect or unkind acts at Midlothian High School.  If you see something, say something.

Violation of Law and School Board Policy - In accordance with the Code of Virginia §22.1-279.3:1, violations of law may be handled by referring the case to law enforcement officials in addition to the use of other disciplinary measures.

Dress Code

Appearance/Dress Code - Believing that school is a place of business where students are learning both academic and social skills, students are expected to dress appropriately for a high school educational environment.  Clothing shall fit, be neat and clean, and conform to standards of safety, good taste, appropriateness, and decency. Any clothing that interferes with or disrupts the educational environment is prohibited.  Parents may refer to School Board Policy 4009 in reference to Dress Code Policies.

Minimum Requirements:

1. Clothing must cover areas from one armpit across to the other armpit, down to the upper thighs (see image below).  Tops must have shoulder straps.  Rips or tears in clothing should be lower than the upper thigh.
2. Shoes must be worn at all times and should be safe for the school environment (pajamas, bedroom shoes or slippers shall not be worn, except for school activities approved by the principal).
3. See-through or mesh garments must not be worn without appropriate coverage underneath that meet the minimum requirements of the dress code.
4. Hoodies as a head covering are not allowed.
5. Specialized courses may require specialized attire, such as sports uniforms or safety gear.

 Additional Requirements:

1. Clothing may not depict, imply, advertise, or advocate illegal, violent, or lewd conduct, weapons, or the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana or other controlled substances.
2. Clothing may not depict or imply pornography, nudity, or sexual acts.
3. Clothing may not display or imply vulgar, discriminatory, or obscene language or images.
4. Clothing may not state, imply, or depict hate speech/imagery targeting groups based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, or any other protected classification.
5. Sunglasses may not be worn inside the building.

Students not complying with this policy will be asked to take appropriate action including, but not limited to, covering the non-complying clothing, changing clothes, reporting to in-school detention, or being sent home. Repeated infractions will result in disciplinary action.

Honor Code

An honor code is a system that operates under the simple premise of trust. Under the honor system, it is assumed that every student has an expressed interest in preserving the integrity of our school. The primary function of an honor code is to instill a common sense of honor and morality in each student and adult at Midlothian High School. This system revolves around the concept of respect:  The respect one has for one’s own words, work and possessions, and the respect one has for the word, work, and possessions of others.  It is imperative that no student commit an act of lying, cheating, or stealing. It is equally important that no student tolerates such behaviors by their fellow students. Since the basis of this system relies on each student’s acceptance of his responsibility to uphold the code, it is imperative that all students acknowledge that they will abide by the code and encourage other students to accept the responsibility for living up to the honor code.

It is understood that students and faculty have an obligation to themselves and to the other members of Midlothian High School to report any violations of the honor code.

Students at Midlothian High School are expected to uphold the honor code as follows:

• The student will neither give nor receive aid on any tests, quizzes, and examinations;
• Work for reports, term papers, theses, and other written work will be done in the student’s own words, not copied from any other source without proper citation;
• Classroom and homework assignments submitted for a grade will be the student’s own work.  Collaboration must be authorized by a teacher;
• Students have a responsibility to consult with their teacher, in advance, if they have any questions regarding material used for completing written assignments, projects, etc.

Listed below are the general activities which would violate the honor code and are therefore prohibited. Violation of the honor code, including failure to report violations, may result in disciplinary and/or academic penalties.

Cheating - At Midlothian High School, cheating is defined as any form of dishonesty regarding academic work which may or may not be graded. Conduct which may constitute cheating will include, but is not limited to, any of the following:

• Unauthorized Collaboration: Allowing other students to have access to or to copy from academic work which has been completed for credit, including classwork, homework, workbook assignments, etc.;
• Giving or receiving any form of assistance to or from other students during quizzes, tests, exams, and/or other types of evaluative activities (i.e. summative assessments) without the teacher’s permission;

• Using unauthorized materials to complete any form of academic work;
• Submitting as original work, any form of assignment which has been created by another person.

Plagiarism- Plagiarism is presenting academic work for credit which is not the original work of the student, except where research papers and related writing projects are properly cited.

Lying/Falsification - Lying/Falsification includes the verbal or written statement of any untruth.

Stealing - Stealing includes the acquiring of another person’s possessions without permission.

Sanctions for Academic Honor Code Violations

Consequences will be determined by the severity of the offense and honor code violations are cumulative over a student’s high school career.  Sanctions may include but are not limited to:

• Teacher assigned intervention;
• In-School Detention (ISD);
• Out-of-School Suspension (OSS);

• Temporary or permanent removal from a school club, honor society, elected office,  or other organization;

• Zero on the graded work.

The Midlothian High School Honor Code Pledge is as follows:  “On my honor, I have neither given nor received help with this assignment/examination”

Student Activities

Student leadership and input are essential for an effective school. Get involved in student government, clubs, athletic teams, or other after-school activities.

Publications

The Midlo Scoop (www.midloscoop.com) is the online school newspaper.  The Scoop includes samples of creative writing, poetry, photography, and the artwork of members of the student body.  It is published by the Journalism and Creative Writing classes and overseen by a school sponsor.

The Trojan, Midlothian’s yearbook is published annually by a student staff overseen by a school sponsor.  The Trojan contains fond memories of school life.  The staff is headed by seniors and assisted by a junior staff.  Prospective members and the key positions are selected by the staff and the sponsor.

The Literary Magazine is an annual publication of both literary and visual works which is published yearly.

Clubs

Clubs are subject to change at the beginning of each semester.  Contact the Director of Student Activities if you have any questions about an existing club or about how to start a new club.

Honor Societies

For Honor Societies, see the specific Honor Society sponsor if you have any questions.

Athletic Program

Refer to the Midlothian Athletics website for schedules and rosters.

Eighth Graders Participating at the High School Level - Eighth graders may try out for the teams at the high school level in sports not offered at the middle school and if the high school has a Junior Varsity or freshman team.  Eighth graders must try out at the high school in the attendance zone in which they reside unless an exception is approved by the principal. 

Workouts/Open Gym/Practices - Students participating in any workouts, the weight room, open gym, team practices, or other conditioning program must have an up-to-date VHSL physical on file with the school prior to any participation. A physical form may be downloaded from the VHSL website and is effective from May1-June 30 of each academic school year.  Students must also be an enrolled student at the schools or from the feeder middle school in the attendance zone.

Equipment - Each athlete will be responsible for all equipment that is issued to them by the school.  No athletic letters or awards will be given to any athlete who fails to turn in equipment.  Athletes will be charged for the replacement cost for any equipment that is not returned or is damaged through negligence or abuse.  

Transportation - Transportation provided by the school must be taken both to and from competitions.  When previously approved by the head coach, students may ride home with a parent/guardian upon physically seeing and signing them out with the coach.

Eligibility for the Athletic Letter:

1. Good sportsmanship, citizenship, and school conduct must be displayed at all times by candidates for letters;
2. The student must have met all eligibility requirements as stated in the Virginia High School League Handbook;
3. The student must abide by the training regulations established by the coaches and athletic director;
4. The student must have turned in (in acceptable condition) all equipment issued to them;
5. In addition to the above, specific requirements for each sport will be given to the athlete by the coach as well as students must have finished the regular season.

Athletic Letters

1. Only one letter will be awarded to a student during their high school career for their participation on each Varsity sport;
2. One insert emblem will be awarded for each sport in which the student qualifies for a letter;
3. After receiving the first letter, a letter, pin or bar will be awarded each time the student qualifies for a letter at the Varsity level.

Virginia High School League - All interscholastic activities are regulated by the Virginia High School League, whose headquarters are in Charlottesville.   Although the University of Virginia has no control or regulatory power over this group, it is a sponsoring agency and furnishes office space for it. The League Handbook carries all rules for sports, forensics, the one-act plays, and all other interscholastic competitions in which Virginia schools participate.

Individual Eligibility Rules - To be eligible to represent our school in any VHSL, Inc. interscholastic contest, a student must meet VHSL eligibility requirements.  These rules are contained on the VHSL participation form which must be completed prior to participating in any VHSL activity.  For additional information, see the Athletic Director or a school counselor.

Student athletes found in possession of or under the influence of alcohol and/or other controlled substances, during or outside of school hours, may face suspension or dismissal from the team.

Spectators’ Code for Interscholastic Athletics - The spectator should:

• Recognize that they represents the school just as a member of a team, and has, therefore, an obligation to display conduct as a true sportsman, encouraging the practice of good sportsmanship by others;
• Recognize that good sportsmanship is more important than victory, by approving and applauding good team play, individual skill, and outstanding examples of sportsmanship and fair play exhibited by either team;

• Recognize that the primary purpose of interscholastic athletics is to promote the physical, mental, moral, social, and emotional well-being of the players through the medium of contests; therefore, victory or defeat is of second importance;
• Treat visiting teams and officials as guests by extending to them every courtesy;
• Be modest in victory and gracious in defeat;
• Respect the judgment and integrity of officials, realizing that their decisions are based upon game conditions as they observe them.

Parent Organizations

Each of the following groups support the students of Midlothian High School. Membership in each group is open to all parents, teachers, and community members.

Midlothian Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO) - The PTSO promotes the welfare of all Midlothian students. Membership fees are collected at the beginning of the school year. The first meeting is held in conjunction with the Back-to-School Night. The PTSO sponsors the after-prom party, a freshman/transfer mixer, and many other activities.  Click on the school calendar on the website for meeting dates and times.

Midlothian Athletic Boosters Association (MABA) -   The Midlothian Athletic Boosters promote the overall athletic program at Midlothian. Dues are collected during the opening weeks of school and at home football games. Fundraising activities such as food concessions have benefited the athletic program through the construction of a weight training facility and numerous other equipment needs.  Click on the school calendar on the website for meeting dates and times.

Midlothian Band Boosters - The Midlothian Band Boosters provide important support to the overall band program. Fund-raising activities may include an art auction, a Battle of the Bands, coupon book sales, and other activities. They also provide valuable support services during shows and competitions.  Click on the school calendar on the website for meeting dates and times.

Midlothian Choral Boosters - The Midlothian Choral Boosters provide encouragement and support to the Choral Program. Fundraising, chaperoning of choral trips and competitions, and many other activities are included in the yearly plans.  Click on the school calendar on the website for meeting dates and times.

Midlothian IB Parents’ Council (IBPC) -  The IB Parents’ Council has its main purpose of furthering the academic and social enrichment of IB students.  The council sponsors the International Festival, the fall family picnic, and the end of the year banquet.  Click on the school calendar on the website for meeting dates and times.

Midlothian Theatre Partisans -  The Midlothian Theatre Partisans promote drama at Midlothian High School.  Among the services the Partisans perform are assisting with publicity for upcoming productions, organizing enrichment programs such as dinner theatres, recording plays and productions, and helping obtain props for productions.  Click on the school calendar on the website for meeting dates and times.

General Information

Advertisements - Advertising and/or distribution of materials of any type through any medium (electronic, posters, flyers, bulletins, coupons, etc.) on school property is not permitted without prior permission.

Building Hours for Students-  The building is open at 8:00am; the library opens at 8:10am.  The School Counseling Office is open from 8:00am to 4:00pm. Students are not permitted in the building at other times unless accompanied by a staff member, a mentor, or a coach.  Students must wait for their transportation by the front office in the vestibule area.  Students who require extensive supervision after school (eg. speciality center) must remain with the adult on duty in the open commons.

Cafeteria-

Midlothian’s cafeteria staff prepares hot meals each day.  Information regarding menus and the myschoolbucks.com website is available on the Chesterfield County Food and Nutritional Services website.

Due to COVID 19, the USDA has extended national waivers for all students to continue receiving free breakfast and lunch daily during the 2021-22 school year. In addition, meals will be available curbside for students learning in a virtual environment. Face-to-face high school students who bring their lunch from home may choose from these free options:

add a fruit, two vegetables and a milk

add two fruits, a vegetable and a milk

add two fruits, two vegetables and a milk

The waivers allow Food and Nutrition Services to provide meals to students at no charge without parents submitting an application. However, if a student has an approved meal application on file, then other benefits outside the school system are available to families in need, such as P-EBT food assistance, reduced or waived internet fees and waived school and testing fees. To receive these benefits, submit an application online for free or reduced-price meals. If you do not have internet access using a smartphone, tablet or computer, then contact Food and Nutrition Services at 804-743-3722. A new application must be submitted each school year; only one application per household is needed. Parents will be notified of the status of their application by email or letter, so be sure your student’s school has the correct email and mailing address on file.

Lunch times at Midlothian are noted on the bell schedule.  There are four lunch periods and four main serving lines for the convenience of students. Freshman and sophomore students are to eat in the open commons, while junior and senior students are to eat in the closed commons.  Only seniors may eat in the school’s courtyard.  Students go to lunch according to their class schedule.

• Delivery, drop off, or student bringing of food from outside vendors is prohibited
• Eating is only allowed in the cafeteria or designated outside areas -  In certain circumstances, teachers may allow students to eat in the classroom
• Students must report to the commons for lunch within six minutes of the dismissal bell
• Dispose of all trash and maintain a clean eating area
• Guests are not allowed without prior administrative approval

Electronic Devices - Students are advised to not bring electronic devices to school to reduce the risk of theft or distraction from learning.  If a student brings an electronic device, the Cell Phone Policy will apply.

Family Life Education - The state mandated Family Life Education curriculum will be implemented in all grade levels.  Parents may exercise the “opt-out” procedure for any or all of the Family Life Education by requesting an “opt-out” form from the School Counseling Office.

Insurance - A group student accident insurance policy is available on a voluntary basis to every student registered in Chesterfield County Public Schools. Information regarding student health and safety can be found on the county’s Health and Safety website.  Accident insurance (of some approved form) shall be required of all students who participate in any extra-curricular activity..

Lockers - Lockers are provided for the convenience of the student.  Students may request a locker through the School Counseling Office.  The school administration reserves the right to inspect locker contents when necessary. If a locker is broken or damaged, report it at once to the main office. No personal locks are to be put on lockers without the permission of the principal.

Senior Privileges - A designated preferred section of the bleachers are reserved for seniors during pep rallies and exhibition events (powder puff games, student-faculty games, etc.). Seniors may use the courtyard during the lunch period.  Seniors may, at the discretion of the teacher, be released two minutes early for lunch, pep rallies, and at the end of the school day.   Seniors may earn the privilege of being exempt from their semester exams (see Exam Exemption Procedures). Class Officers will have designated parking spaces.

Telephones - Personal calls and messages will not be taken on the school office telephones. Emergency messages will be taken only from parents/guardians and delivered to the student as soon as possible.   Reminding students of after-school appointments or arranging after-school transportation does not constitute an emergency. 

Tech Center Students - Students who are accepted to attend the CCPS Technical Center will report immediately following 1st period to the bus loop for transportation.  Upon arrival back from the Tech Center (shortly before dismissal), students will report to the closed commons where they will be supervised.

Cell Phone Policy - Cell phones are allowed in the hallways and during lunch, earphones/earbuds are also allowed in the hall and during lunch as long as one ear remains free.  Cell phones are allowed in the classroom but may only be used with teacher approval.  Students who use phones in the classroom without teacher approval may have their phones confiscated by a staff member and turned in to the main office.  

Repeat offenders may receive disciplinary consequences:

1. A 1st offense will result in confiscation of the item.  Students may pick up their devices in the main office after 3:00pm;
2. A 2nd offense will result in confiscation of the item. Devices must be picked up by a parent/guardian before 4:00pm Monday - Friday;
3. A 3rd offense will result in confiscation of the item; a conference with parent/guardian and an administrator is required.  Phones must be picked up by a parent/guardian before 4:00pm Monday - Friday;
4. Further offenses will result in confiscation of the item.  A required conference must take place with parent/guardian and an administrator. In-School Detention and Out-of School Suspension as determined by an administrator may be assigned. Items must be picked up by a parent/guardian before 4:00pm Monday - Friday;
5. A student found using a cellular telephone during any testing situation will have the cellular telephone immediately confiscated and will lose the privilege for the remainder of the school year;
6. Any student who uses a cellular telephone for unlawful activity while on school property, or while attending any school function or activity, will be subject to disciplinary action that may include out-of-school suspension or a recommendation for expulsion.

Chesterfield County Public Schools is not responsible for lost or stolen personal cellular telephones or other personal electronic devices.

Visitors -

Visitors arriving at school will need to enter through door #1 only and shall first register in the main office using the Raptor Visitor Management System (VMS) before visiting any other part of the school. Driver’s license or other government issued photo I.D. is required. Visitors may not visit friends or relatives during school hours, including lunch, unless the visit is deemed an emergency by the administration or has received prior administrative approval.  The main office will not accept deliveries of flowers, balloons, food, etc. to students.  No deliveries should be sent to the school.

It is not necessary to check in through the VMS If you are dropping an item off for a student.  When dropping off an item, please be sure to clearly label it with your student’s name, then place it on the bookshelf located in the main office near the front windows as you come in the door.  Chromebooks or money being dropped off should be signed in at the front desk.  Once dropped off, contact your student to let them know to come get the item between class periods.  The main office will not accept deliveries of flowers, balloons, food, etc. to students.

Use of Parents, Volunteers, and Community Resources - Chesterfield County Public Schools support and encourage the active participation of parents and members of the community in providing and extending educational opportunities for children. The involvement of parents, volunteers and those in the community who can serve as a resource to schools is a fundamentally important component of successful school programs. The administration of each school will direct the activities of parents, volunteers and community resources at the building level. Schools should operate within the guidelines of the County Handbook for Parent Volunteers.  All volunteers (including chaperones) must fill out the online Volunteer Application.  Please refer to Volunteer School Board Policy 3070 for more details regarding volunteers in schools.

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