Honey Creek Middle School

6601 South Carlisle St.

Terre Haute, Indiana 47802

(812) 462-4372

Student Handbook

https://web.vigoschools.org/honey-creek/

VIGO COUNTY SCHOOL CORPORATION MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Vigo County School Corporation is to build on the strengths of our diverse community, we create an engaging, comprehensive educational environment that supports the growth of lifelong learners.

HONEY CREEK MISSION STATEMENT

The Honey Creek Middle School community provides all students with:

•        Hands-on opportunities to explore and participate.

•        Consideration and respect for diversity.

•        Meaningful skills for lifelong learning.

•        Safe learning environment.

In order to create a positive climate for learning, students and staff are asked to observe four expectations. By following these expectations, everyone is able to achieve his/her potential. The expectations are:

• Be on time
• Be verbally and physically considerate of others 
• Use time wisely
• Bring necessary materials

In addition, please see HCMS School-Wide Expectations

When you need information about homework:

Rose Hulman Institute of Technology Homework Hotline - (812) 877-8435

Your child’s teachers can answer questions about the classroom. We encourage parents to call during the teachers’ preparation periods.

This student handbook was developed to answer many of the commonly asked questions that you  and your parents may have during the school year. Because the handbook contains information  about student rights and responsibilities, each student and their parents are responsible for knowing  its contents. Please take time to become familiar with the following information and keep the  handbook available or know its location on the school’s website. It can be a valuable reference  during the school year and a means to avoid confusion and misunderstanding when questions arise.  Should you have any questions that are not addressed in this handbook, contact the Administrative  Team who you will find listed in the Staff Directory section of the school’s website. This handbook supersedes all prior handbooks and other written material on  the same subjects.

ACADEMICS 

Courses meet for different term durations. Term durations consist of the following:

Year YR                 36 Weeks

Quarter Q                 9 Weeks

A/B Rotation         Classes meet every other day

6th Grade Curriculum

Language Arts                                                Year

Reading                                                        Year

Mathematics                                                Year

Social Studies                                                Year

Science                                                        Year

Art                                                        Quarter

Technology                                                        Quarter

Family and Consumer Science                        Quarter

Business                                                        Quarter

Music (General, Band, Choir, or Orchestra)                A/B

Physical Education                                        A/B

7th Grade Curriculum

Language Arts                                                Year

Literature                                                        Year

Mathematics                                                Year

Social Studies                                                Year

Science                                                        Year

Art                                                        Quarter

Technology                                                        Quarter

Family and Consumer Science                        Quarter

Business                                                        Quarter

Music (General, Band, Choir, or Orchestra)                A/B

Physical Education                                        A/B

8th Grade Curriculum

Language Arts                                                Year

Literature                                                        Year

Mathematics                                                Year

Social Studies                                                Year

Science                                                        Year

Art                                                        Quarter

Technology                                                        Quarter

Family and Consumer Science (HS Credit)                Quarter

Business (HS Credit)                                        Quarter

Music (General, Band, Choir, or Orchestra)                A/B

Physical Education                                        A/B

PROGRESS REPORTS

Notices are posted to Skyward in the middle of each nine-week grading period to inform parents of a student's academic progress.

GRADING SCALE (Variations in +/- may occur.)

        100        -        90        A

        89        -        80        B

        79        -        70        C

        69        -        60        D

        59        -        BELOW F

VALUE OF GRADES:

        A         4.00        C        2.00

        A-        3.67        C-        1.67

        B+        3.33        D+        1.33

        B         3.00        D        1.00

        B-        2.67        D-         .67

        C+        2.33        F        .00

HONOR ROLL CLASSIFICATIONS:

        Exceptional Honor Roll        3.85 - 4.00

        High Honor Roll                3.50 - 3.84

        Regular Honor Roll                3.00 - 3.49

Students having a D+, D, D-, F, or Incomplete for a given grading period are excluded from the honor roll for the grading period only. The semester honor roll will be based on semester grades only.

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING

The Guidance Office is open to all students any time during the school day. Students with last names A-K are assigned to Mrs. Gregg and students L-Z are assigned to Mrs. Tresner. Here students will find an abundance of information dealing with educational choices, career opportunities, and personal adjustment.  Students can sign-up to meet with a counselor on the counselor Canvas page.

PERMITS

Students are required to attend the school in the district of their legal residence. If a parent wishes for a student to attend another school, a permit application is required.  In addition, no school bus transportation is furnished for a student on a permit.

Specific guidelines must be followed to apply for a permit. Forms available at the school are only allowed when a permit is granted by the receiving school. In addition, permits can be revoked by the receiving principal for just cause; including overcrowding in a school or classroom, poor attendance, tardiness, or severe discipline issues.  Parents of permitted students should keep in close contact with the school principal to avoid the revocation of a student permit to attend a school outside of the home school district.

SCHOOL POLICIES

STUDENT PICK-UP AND DROP-OFF PROCEDURES

The following plan has been developed in effort to improve our drop-off & pick-up procedures at HCMS.  Students are not permitted to walk, ride their bike, etc. to and from school.  

• Drop-off & pick-up for all students is located on the west side of the building in the center parking lot area along the curb by the flagpole.  Please do not park, drop-off, or pick-up your child between the flagpole and school building as this is designated for buses only.  
• Students will be released by bell at 3:15. Car riders and early bus riders may exit the building through door 1. Early buses leave at approximately 3:20 each day. Late bus riders should go to the gym after collecting their belongings where they will wait to be dismissed.

MORNING:

• Drop-off for all students is located on the west side of the building in the center parking lot area along the curb by the flagpole.  Please do not park, drop-off, or pick-up your child between the flagpole and school building as this is designated for buses only.  
• Arrive after 7:25 a.m. and before 7:55 a.m. Class begins at 8:05.
• Only students eating breakfast enter door 3 and report to the cafeteria.
• All other students arriving prior to 7:55 enter door 3 and report to the main gymnasium.
• Students are not allowed to go to lockers prior to 7:55 a.m. without supervising teacher permission.
• At 7:55, students should enter door 1.

AFTER SCHOOL:

• All students will be dismissed at 3:15.
• Parents must pick up their students by the flag pole or in the main parking lot.  Students cannot be picked up along the driveway or in the street.  
• Late bus riders should report to the main gym and sit in their assigned area.  Students must remain seated in the bleachers.

ATTENDANCE

Attendance Guidelines

Progressive Discipline Policy

Types of absences

*After 5 absences (excused or unexcused) without proper documentation, absences will automatically be unexcused.

Ind. Code § 20-33-2-18

(a) If a parent of a student does not send the student to school because of the student's illness or mental or physical incapacity, it is unlawful for the parent to fail or refuse to produce a certificate of the illness or incapacity for an attendance officer not later than six (6) days after the certificate is demanded.

(b) The certificate required under this section must be signed by:

(1) an Indiana physician;

(2) an individual holding a license to practice osteopathy or chiropractic in Indiana; or

(3) a Christian Science practitioner who resides in Indiana and is listed in the Christian Science Journal.

Elementary Attendance Policy

The Vigo County School Corporation realizes that good attendance habits and punctuality allow maximum benefit for students' education. It is difficult for students to learn if they are not in class on time every day. The partnership between each student, guardian, and school help establish self-discipline and responsibility in developing life skills and healthy habits for entry into the adult world. Guardians are asked to work with the school to eliminate unnecessary absences.

Indiana Code 20-33-2-27 states: “It is unlawful for a parent to fail to ensure that his child attends school.”

Frequent and prolonged absences are in violation of state law. Attendance is taken daily. Excessive absences, whether excused or unexcused, may result in academic failure.

Students are required to make up all work missed when they are not in class, regardless of the type of absence.

5 Day Allowance

Students are permitted 5 absences in a semester. Documentation with any absence is always encouraged. After 5 absences, any day missed without medical or legal documentation will be counted as unexcused, even with parent notification. To keep you informed of your child’s absences you will be sent a Skyward notification at 2, 3, and 5 days of absences by the school office. Refer to the Progressive Discipline Policy for our plan for unexcused absences. At any point in a student’s excessive absence occurrence the school may refer the guardian to the Children’s Bureau. The student/guardian may be reported to the Department of Child Services for ten unexcused absences.

Absences

Students missing in excess of one and one-half (1.5) hours but less than three (3) hours will be counted absent for a half day. Missing three (3) or more hours will count as a full day. Guardians are required to report their child’s absence to school. Phone calls on the day of the absence should be made by 9:00 a.m. If a call is not made the day of an absence, a note explaining the reason for the absence should be brought or emailed to the school on the first day returning from an absence. Absences will be monitored through the Principal’s office on a yearly basis.

When an absence is required, each student is expected to have an acceptable and justifiable reason for the absence. Refer to the Progressive Discipline Policy for information about excused, unexcused, and exempt absence definitions.

Tardies 

An a.m. tardy is defined as arriving between 8:15 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. A student must be in the building and ready to learn by 8:15 in order to not be tardy. If your child plans to eat breakfast at school, please arrive earlier.

Secondary Attendance Policy

The Vigo County School Corporation realizes that good attendance habits and punctuality allow maximum benefit for students' education. It is difficult for students to learn if they are not in class on time every day. The partnership between each student, guardian, and school help establish self-discipline and responsibility in developing life skills and healthy habits for entry into the adult world. Guardians are asked to work with the school to eliminate unnecessary absences.

Indiana Code 20-33-2-27 states: “It is unlawful for a parent to fail to ensure that his child attends school.”

Frequent and prolonged absences are in violation of state law. Attendance is taken daily. Excessive absences, whether excused or unexcused, may result in academic failure.

Students are required to make up all work missed when they are not in class, regardless of the type of absence.

Driver’s License/Permit Restriction Policy

Indiana Code provides that any student 13 or 14 years old who is determined to be a habitual truant cannot be issued a learner’s permit or operators license until the age of 18.  A habitual truant is a student who has more than 10 days of unexcused absences in one school year(**).  Once a student has been designated a habitual truant he/she has the right to due process as a periodic review to determine if the prohibition can be removed.  An operator's license or learner’s permit may not be issued to a person less than 18 years of age who is under

1. At least a second suspension from school for the school year.

2. An expulsion from school

3. Exclusion from school due to misconduct

4. In an effort to circumvent the above sanctions withdraws from school before graduating.  If a person is less than 18 years of age and is under suspension, expulsion, or has withdrawn from school as described in number 4 above, the Department of Motor Vehicles shall invalidate the person's license or permit until the earliest of the following:

The person becomes 18 years of age

120 days after the student is suspended

180 days after the student is expelled or excluded

The suspension, expulsion, or exclusion is reversed after the person has a hearing.

5 Day Allowance

Students are permitted 5 absences in a semester. Documentation with any absence is always encouraged. After 5 absences, any day missed without medical or legal documentation will be counted as unexcused, even with parent notification. To keep you informed of your child’s absences you will be sent a Skyward notification at 2, 3, and 5 days of absences by the school office. Refer to the Progressive Discipline Policy for our plan for unexcused absences. At any point in a student’s excessive absence occurrence the school may refer the guardian to the Children’s Bureau. The student/guardian may be reported to the Department of Child Services for ten unexcused absences.

Absences

Students missing in excess of one and one-half (1.5) hours but less than three (3) hours will be counted absent for a half day. Missing three (3) or more hours will count as a full day. Guardians are required to report their child’s absence to school. Calls the day of the absence should be made by 9:00 a.m. If a call is not made the day of an absence, a note explaining the reason for the absence should be brought or emailed to the school on the first day returning from an absence. Absences will be monitored through the Principal’s office on a yearly basis.

When an absence is required, each student is expected to have an acceptable and justifiable reason for the absence. Refer to the Progressive Discipline Policy for information about excused, unexcused, and exempt absence definitions. Exempt absences must be verified prior to the absence as well as after the off-site experience has been completed. The agency/institution visited must verify the visitation.

In the event a student must be absent for a school day, the parent/guardian must report the student absent by contacting the school. School officials may call the parent/guardian for verification of a student's absence if the parent/guardian does not contact the school. Students reporting late to school should be reported in the same manner.

In the event the student must leave school for an appointment, the parent will contact the attendance office. At that time the student will be summoned from class by the office personnel. Upon return, the student will sign in. All appointments and off-site approved absences will require written verification from the agency or office visited. Without such verification, the absence may be unexcused.

Students are required to make up all work missed when they are not in class, regardless of the type of absence. Requests for make-up work must be initiated by the student the day of their return to school.

The deadline for make-up work will be determined by the length of the absence. When obtaining the work, there will be one day of make-up for each day of absence.

Tardies

Tardiness is defined as not being in the assigned classroom (or seat - teacher’s discretion) before the bell sounds. Teachers are to advise students of any and all tardy recordings. Continuous tardies will result in disciplinary action as stated in the Discipline Guideline.

Extracurricular activities

A student who is unable to attend at least half of the day will be unable to attend extracurricular functions later in the same day unless proper documentation (doctor’s note or legal form) is presented. Requests for special consideration should be directed to an administrator.

Signing out

Students are not to leave the building without permission from an administrator or other authorized office staff. Students must also have permission from parent/guardian to leave the building. Leaving the school grounds without administrative approval at any time during the school day will be considered truancy.

LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS

No student is permitted to leave the school grounds during the school day except with the direction, knowledge, and approval of the office. Students will only be released to a parent, guardian, or emergency contact. Any student(s) that leave(s) the school grounds during the school day without the direction, knowledge, and approval of the office does so at his/her own risk and may face disciplinary action.

HALL PASSES

Students should use their passing periods wisely.  Teachers are encouraged to set limits on the number of times students can leave class.  To leave class, students must sign-out  to go to the restroom, locker, health office, or library.  The sign-out sheet is available on the media center Canvas page.    

CONDUCT OF STUDENTS

• Honey Creek students are expected to behave appropriately, at all times, creating positive learning experiences for all in a safe and orderly environment.
• Educators, students, and parents must work together to achieve this goal.
• Every effort is made to contact a parent or guardian by telephone, or by mail, to seek cooperative resolutions to problems.
• School rules are discussed during the advisory period at the beginning of the school year and at other times, as needed.
• Each student, upon enrollment, is given a copy of the school rules to take home and reviewed with the parent(s) or guardian(s).
• Students are required to sign a form verifying they have reviewed and understand the rules.

The following student rights and responsibilities have been formulated to ensure an orderly administration of the educational process. Students who violate the adopted rules will be disciplined accordingly. When extenuating circumstances prevail, the administration will deal with the situation appropriately.

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1.        I will show respect for the rights of others by being courteous to teachers and to other students. I will obey the school staff and follow directions.

2.        I will attend school regularly and be on time to school and to classes. I will be in my seat and be ready to work when the teacher begins. I will bring necessary materials and completed work to class.

3.        I will not yell or run in the classroom, halls, cafeteria, library, or on the stairs.

4.        I will dress in a manner that does not cause disruption or advertise any alcohol, tobacco, or drug-related products.

5.        I will behave appropriately by not talking, standing, or leaving my seat during classes or assemblies without permission.

6.        I will eat or drink only in the cafeteria.

7.        I will not use profanity or vulgar language in or near the building or wear items with such language.

8.        I will keep my hands to myself at all times. I will not fight or participate in nonsensical behavior.

9.        I will be out of class only with a signed hall pass.

10.        I will observe the school corporation rules as outlined in the Student Discipline Rules and the Honey Creek Student Handbook, which include prohibition of theft, vandalism, violence, disorderly conduct, threats, intimidation, weapons, drugs or paraphernalia, alcohol, tobacco, gambling, or otherwise unlawful activities.

Self-discipline, respect for others, and respect for property is the best discipline.  When self-discipline is not sufficient, then appropriate corrective action will be imposed.

The principal has assigned appropriate disciplinary authority to all staff members so that individual rights can be respected and responsibilities met. All students are subject to the responsible direction and correction of all adults (certified and non-certified) on the school staff.

All referrals for disciplinary action will be directed to the Dean of Students. Disciplinary action will be imposed, when and where necessary, to ensure the smooth operation of the school and the general welfare of students and staff.

The Vigo County School Corporation Student Discipline Rules addresses the matter of student behavior and the process rights and procedures under Indiana Public Law. Please familiarize yourself with the material. In addition, it should be clear that the following kinds of behavior problems will not be tolerated at school or school-related functions:

1.        Disruption of school/class activity.

2.        Damage or destruction of school and/or private property.

3.        Assault on a school employee.

4.        Physical and/or verbal abuse of a student, and/or fighting.

5.        Possession of weapons or dangerous instruments (including fireworks and lighters, laser lights, etc.).

6.        Extortion or coercion.

7.        Possession, use, or sale of drugs or alcoholic beverages, or imitation of the like.

8.        Immorality.

9.        Theft/forgery.

10.         Disrespect,  disobedience and/or insubordination.

11.        Smoking, vaping, and/or possession of tobacco products.

12.        Truancy.

13.        Gambling.

Discipline

Vigo County School Corporation

Student Discipline Rules

The Vigo County School Corporation’s mission is to equip students with lifelong learning skills and prepare them to become productive and responsible citizens. Toward that end, the School Corporation desires to use progressive discipline of students in an effort to avoid interruption or disruption within educational program and activities while also pursuing restorative goals that seek to avoid exclusionary punishment, if possible. In accordance with Indiana law, administrators and staff members may take the following actions:

1.          CLASSROOM CONSEQUENCE: A teacher may prescribe appropriate classroom-level correction to encourage compliance with expectations and policies.

2.          REMOVAL FROM CLASS OR ACTIVITY ‑ TEACHER:

                  a.   A middle or high school teacher may remove a student from the teacher’s class or activity for a period of up to 1 school day if the student is assigned regular or additional work to be completed in another school setting.

                  b.   An elementary teacher may remove a student from the teacher’s classroom or activity for a period of up to one (1) school day if the student is assigned regular or additional work to be completed in another school setting.

                  c.   If a teacher removes a student from class under a) or b) above, the principal may place the student in one of the following settings: another appropriate class, another appropriate setting, or in-school suspension. The student may not be placed back into the original class until the principal has a meeting with the teacher, the student, and the student’s parents to determine an appropriate behavior plan for the student. If the parents do not attend this meeting within a reasonable time, the principal may place the student in another class or educational setting.

                  d.   A student may also loose bus transportation privileges as a consequence. (NOTE: Loss of bus transportation for students under an IEP or Section 504 plan may be considered equal to an out of school suspension.)

3.          ALTERNATIVE PLACEMENT/SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL ‑ PRINCIPAL: A school principal (or designee) may place the student in an alternative learning environment, which is the preferred consequence, or deny a student the right to attend school and/or take part in any school function for a period of up to 10 school days.

4.          EXPULSION: A student may be expelled from school for a period no longer than the remainder of the current semester plus the following semester.  

NOTE: Students under IEPS or Section 504 shall receive separate considerations and may not be eligible for some forms of discipline.

GROUNDS FOR SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION:

The grounds for suspension or expulsion listed in Section A below apply when a student is:

           a.   On school grounds immediately before, during, and immediately after school hours and at any other time when the school is being used by a school group (including summer school);

           b.   Off school grounds at a school activity, function, or event; or

           c.   Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event.

A school activity, function, or event includes e-Learning, virtual instruction, and remote learning days.

A violation by a student listed in Sections A and B below is subject to a range of disciplinary consequences imposed by teachers or administrators intended to be progressive in nature and move to a more serious consequence with each violation of the same or similar rule. In recognizing that violations of certain rules and the resulting consequences will be dependent upon the age of the student, the number of prior violations and the severity of the violation, the principal of each building level shall develop the minimum and maximum consequences for each rule for their building that is to be approved by the board annually and published in the student handbook for each building. The appropriate consequence should be the least severe that will adequately address any danger to the student and other persons, prevent further disruption of activities, and promote student achievement.

A. Student Misconduct and/or Substantial Disobedience

Grounds for suspension or expulsion are student misconduct and/or substantial disobedience. The following rules define student misconduct and/or substantial disobedience for which a student may be suspended or expelled:

1.        Using violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or other conduct constituting an interference or disruption with school purposes, or urging other students to engage in such conduct. The following enumeration is only illustrative and not limited to the type of conduct prohibited by this rule:

           a.   Occupying any school building, school grounds, or part thereof with intent to deprive others of its use.

b.     Blocking the entrance or exits of any school building or corridor or room therein with intent to deprive others of lawful access to or from, or use of the building, corridor, or room.

           c.   Setting fire to or damaging any school building or school property.

           d.   Prevention of or attempting to prevent by physical act the convening or continued functioning of any school or education function, or of any meeting or assembly on school property.

           e.   Intentionally making noise or acting in any manner so as to interfere with the ability of any teacher or any other person to conduct or participate in an education function.

2.        Engaging in any kind of aggressive behavior that does physical or psychological harm to another person or urging of other students to engage in such conduct. Prohibited conduct includes coercion, harassment, hazing, or other comparable conduct.

3.        Engaging in violence and/or threat of violence against any student, staff member, and/or other persons. Prohibited violent or threatening conduct includes threatening, planning, or conspiring with others to engage in a violent activity.

4.        Causing or attempting to cause damage to school property, stealing or attempting to steal school property.

5.        Causing or attempting to cause damage to private property, stealing or attempting to steal private property.

6.        Causing or attempting to cause physical injury or behaving in such a way as could reasonably cause physical injury to any person. Self‑defense or reasonable action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect oneself and/or another person is not a violation of this rule.

7.        Threatening or intimidating any person for any purpose, including obtaining money or anything of value.  

8.        Threatening (whether specific or general in nature) injury to persons or damage to property, regardless of whether there is a present ability to commit the act.

9.        Failing to report the actions or plans of another person to a teacher or administrator where those actions or plans, if carried out, could result in harm to another person or persons or damage property when the student has information about such actions or plans.

10.  Possessing, handling, or transmitting a knife or any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon, is represented to be a weapon, or looks like a weapon, including but not limited to imitation weapons or airsoft guns.

11.  Possessing, using, transmitting, or being affected by any controlled substance, prescription drug, narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug (including natural hallucinogenics), amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, intoxicant or depressant of any kind, or any paraphernalia used in connection with the listed substances. Also prohibited is the consumption of any of the stated substances immediately before attending school or a school function or event. THC Extract products as defined by state law are included in this rule and/or violations of the school corporation administration of medication policy are included in this rule

a.  Exception to Rule 11: a student may possess and self-administer prescribed medication for the disease or condition if the student’s parent has filed a written authorization with the building principal. The written authorization must be filed annually. The written authorization must be completed by a physician and must include the following information:

1.    The nature of the student’s disease or medical condition shall or may require administration of the prescribed medication during the school day.

2.    The student has been instructed in how to self-administer the prescribed medication.

3.    The student is authorized to possess and self-administer the prescribed medication.

This exception, however, does not apply to use of prescribed medication by anyone other than the individual to whom the prescription is written, nor does this exception permit the unlawful distribution of prescribed medication.

12.  Possessing, using, or transmitting any substance which is represented to be or looks like a narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, stimulant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind.

13.     Possessing, using, transmitting, or being affected by caffeine‑based substances other than beverages, substances containing phenylpropanolamine (PPA)*, stimulants of any kind, or any other similar over-the-counter products.

14.  Possessing, using, distributing, purchasing, or selling tobacco or nicotine-containing products of any kind or in any form. These products include e-cigarettes, vaping devices, any type of look-alike products or other related products or devices associated with tobacco or nicotine use or electronic nicotine delivery systems.

15.     Offering to sell or agreeing to purchase a controlled or banned substance or alcoholic beverages.

16.     Failing to comply with directions of teachers or other school personnel during any period of time when the student is properly under their supervision, where the failure constitutes an interference with school purposes or an educational function.

17.     Failing to completely and truthfully respond to questions from a staff member regarding school-related matters including potential violations of the student conduct rules or state or federal law. (NOTE: If the staff member is a uniformed law enforcement officer, the student may have the right to be silent under the U.S. and Indiana Constitutions.)

18.  Accusing any person of sexual harassment, or of violating a school rule, and/or a state or federal law without a good faith basis for such allegation.

19.  Engaging in any activity forbidden by the laws of Indiana that constitutes an interference with school purposes or an educational function.

20.     Aiding, assisting, agreeing or conspiring with another person to violate these student conduct rules or state or federal law.

21.     Engaging in academic dishonesty, including cheating, intentionally plagiarizing, wrongfully giving or receiving help during an academic examination, and wrongfully obtaining test copies or scores.

22.    Taking, recording, displaying and/or distributing pictures (digital or otherwise), video or audio recordings of a student or staff member without the consent of that student or staff member, including images altered through technology.

23.     Possessing sexually-related materials which include images displaying uncovered breasts, genitals, or buttocks.

24.    “Sexting” or using a cell phone or other personal communication device to possess or send text or email messages containing images reasonably interpreted as indecent or sexual in nature. In addition to taking any disciplinary action, phones will be confiscated and any images suspected to violate criminal laws will be referred to law enforcement authorities.

25.     Engaging in pranks or other similar activity that could result in harm to another person.

26.     Using or possessing gunpowder, ammunition, or an inflammable substance.

27.  Violating any board policy or administrative rules that are reasonably necessary in carrying out school purposes or an educational function, including, but not limited to:

           a.  engaging in sexual behavior on school property;

                        b.  engaging in sexual harassment of a student or staff member;

           c.  disobedience of administrative authority;

           d.  willful absence or tardiness of students;

           e.  engaging in speech or conduct, including clothing, jewelry or hair style, that is profane, indecent, lewd, vulgar, or refers to drugs, tobacco, alcohol, sex, or illegal activity;

           f.        violation of the school corporation’s acceptable use of technology policy or rules;

g.  violation of the school corporation’s administration of medication policy or rules;

             h.  possessing or using a laser pointer or similar device.

28.  Possessing or using an electronic device (e.g. cellular phone, tablet computer, pager, digital camera, electronic equipment) in a manner which constitutes an interference with a school purpose or educational function, an invasion of privacy, or an act of academic dishonesty, or is profane, indecent, or obscene. In addition to being disciplined, students who use an electronic device in a manner which is inconsistent with this rule may have the device confiscated by school administration. Such device will be returned to the parent.

29.  Possessing or using on school grounds during school hours an electronic device, a cellular telephone, or any other telecommunication device, including a look-a-like device, in a situation not related to a school purpose or educational function or using such device to engage in an activity that violates school rules. This rule is not violated when the student has been given clear permission from a school administrator or a designated staff member to possess or use one of the devices listed in this rule. In addition to being disciplined, students who use an electronic device in a manner which is inconsistent with this rule may have the device confiscated by school administration. Such device will be returned to the parent.

30.  Any student conduct rule the school building principal establishes and gives notice to students and parents.

B. Bullying

1.     Bullying committed by students toward other students is strictly prohibited. Engaging in bullying conduct described in this rule by use of data or computer software that is accessed through any computer, computer system, computer network, or cellular telephone or other wireless or cellular communication device, is also prohibited.

2.     For purposes of this rule, bullying is defined as overt, unwanted, repeated acts or gestures, including verbal or written communications or images transmitted in any manner including electronically or digitally, physical acts committed, aggression, or any other similar behaviors that are committed by a student or group of students against another student with the intent to harass, ridicule, humiliate, intimidate, or harm the targeted student and create for the targeted student an objectively hostile school environment that:

-          places the targeted student in reasonable fear of harm to the targeted student’s person or property;

-          has a substantially detrimental effect on the targeted student’s physical or mental health;

-          has the effect of substantially interfering with the targeted student’s academic performance; or

-          has the effect of substantially interfering with the targeted student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, and privileges provided by the school.

3.     This rule may be applied regardless of the physical location of the bullying behavior when a student committing bullying behavior and the targeted student attend a school within the school corporation and disciplinary action is reasonably necessary to avoid substantial interference with school discipline or prevent an unreasonable threat to the rights of other students to a safe and peaceful learning environment.

4.         Any student or parent who has knowledge of conduct in violation of this rule or any student who feels he/she has been bullied in violation of this rule should immediately report the conduct to the principal or designee who has responsibility for all investigations of student misconduct including bullying. A student or parent may also report the conduct to a teacher or counselor who will be responsible for notifying the principal or designee. This report may be made anonymously.

5.         The principal or designee shall investigate immediately all reports of bullying made pursuant to the provisions of this rule. Such investigation must include any action or appropriate responses that may be taken immediately to address the bullying conduct wherever it takes place. The parents of the alleged perpetrator and the targeted student(s) shall be notified of the reported bullying incidents within five business days of the report of such incidents and on a regular, periodic basis of the progress and the findings of the investigation and of any remedial action that has been taken. During the investigation, the school’s priority will be the safety of the victim. The investigation may include a determination of the severity of the bullying incident(s) and whether the transfer of the alleged perpetrator or victim to another school within the school corporation is warranted.

6.         The Principal or designee will be responsible for working with the school counselors and other community resources to provide information and/or follow-up services to support the targeted student and to educate the student engaging in bullying behavior on the effects of bullying and the prevention of bullying. In addition, the school administrator and school counselors will be responsible for determining if the bullying behavior is a violation of law required to be reported to law enforcement under Indiana law based upon their reasonable belief. Such determination should be made as soon as possible and once this determination is made, the report should be made immediately to law enforcement.

7.         False reporting of bullying conduct as defined in this rule by a student shall be considered a violation of this rule and will result in any appropriate disciplinary action or sanctions if the investigation of the report finds it to be false.

8.         A violation of this rule prohibiting bullying may result in any appropriate disciplinary action or sanction, including suspension and/or expulsion.

9.     Failure by a school employee who has a responsibility to report bullying or investigate bullying or any other duty under this rule to carry out such responsibility or duty will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from employment with the school corporation.

10.  Counseling, corrective discipline, and/or referral to law enforcement will be used to change the behavior of the perpetrator. This includes appropriate intervention(s), restoration of a positive climate, and support for victims and others impacted by the bullying.

11.  Educational outreach and training will be provided to school personnel, parents, and students concerning the identification, prevention, and intervention in bullying.

12.  All schools in the corporation are encouraged to engage students, staff and parents in meaningful discussions about the negative aspects of bullying. The parent involvement may be through parent organizations already in place in each school.

13.  The superintendent or designee will be responsible for developing detailed administrative procedures consistent with the Indiana Department of Education guidelines for the implementation of the provisions of this rule.

C. Possessing a Firearm or A Destructive Device

1.   No student shall possess, handle or transmit any firearm or a destructive device on school property.

         2.      The following devices are considered to be a firearm under this rule:

                 any weapon that is capable of expelling, designed to expel, or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by means of an explosion.

3.           For purposes of this rule, a destructive device is:

                 an explosive, incendiary, or overpressure device that is configured as a bomb, a grenade, a rocket with a propellant charge of more than four ounces, a missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, a mine, a Molotov cocktail or a device that is substantially similar to an item described above,

                 a type of weapon that may be readily converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant through a barrel that has a bore diameter of more than one-half inch, or

                 a combination of parts designed or intended for use in the conversion of a device into a destructive device.

A destructive device is NOT a device that although originally designed for use as a weapon, is redesigned for use as a signaling, pyrotechnic, line throwing, safety, or similar device.

4.        The penalty for possession of a firearm or a destructive device: suspension up to 10 days and expulsion from school for at least one calendar year with the return of the student to be at the beginning of the first semester after the one year period. The superintendent may reduce the length of the expulsion if the circumstances warrant such reduction.

5.        The superintendent shall immediately notify the appropriate law enforcement agency when a student engages in behavior described in this rule.

D. Possessing A Deadly Weapon

1.        No student shall possess, handle or transmit any deadly weapon on school property.

2.        The following devices are considered to be deadly weapons for purposes of this rule:

                 a weapon, taser or electronic stun weapon, equipment, chemical substance, or other material that in the manner it is used, or could ordinarily be used, or is intended to be used, is readily capable of causing serious bodily injury;

                 an animal readily capable of causing serious bodily injury and used in the commission or attempted commission of a crime; or

                 a biological disease, virus, or organism that is capable of causing serious bodily injury.

3.        The penalty for possession of a deadly weapon: up to 10 days suspension and expulsion from school for a period of up to one calendar year.

4.       The superintendent may notify the appropriate law enforcement agency when a student engages in behavior described in this rule.

E. Unlawful Activity

A student may be suspended or expelled for engaging in unlawful activity on or off school grounds if 1) the unlawful activity may reasonably be considered to be an interference with school purposes or an educational function, or 2) the student's removal is necessary to restore order or protect persons on school property. This includes any unlawful activity meeting the above criteria that takes place during weekends, holidays, other school breaks, and the summer period when a student may not be attending classes or other school functions.

F. Legal Settlement

A student may be expelled if it is determined that the student’s legal settlement is not in the attendance area of the school where the student is enrolled.

LEGAL REFERENCES:           I.C. 20-33-8                                      I.C. 35-31.5-2-86

                                          I.C. 35-47.5-2-4                           I.C. 35-47-1-5

STUDENT NETWORK AND INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE AND SAFETY GUIDELINES

The Vigo County School Corporation (VCSC) provides network access to every VCSC student and employee, subject to the terms and conditions of policy IIBG in the VCSC Board Policy Handbook. The purpose of the access is to facilitate communications in support of research and education. Use of such resources is a privilege, not a right. Students utilizing VCSC networks and Internet access must first have the permission of the VCSC’s professional staff.

Unauthorized or inappropriate use, including any violation of these guidelines, may result in the cancellation of the privilege, disciplinary action consistent with the student handbook, and/or civil or criminal liability. Parents and guardians have the option of requesting for their children alternative activities not requiring network or Internet use. Such a request should be submitted to the building principal in writing.

VCSC SECONDARY SCHOOL CELL PHONE GUIDELINES

(Revised 2023)

Student Discipline Rules:

28.  Possessing or using an electronic device (e.g. cellular phone, tablet computer, pager, digital camera, electronic equipment) in a manner which constitutes an interference with a school purpose or educational function, an invasion of privacy, or an act of academic dishonesty, or is profane, indecent, or obscene. In addition to being disciplined, students who use an electronic device in a manner which is inconsistent with this rule may have the device confiscated by school administration. Such a device will be returned to the parent.

 29. Possessing or using on school grounds during school hours an electronic device, a cellular telephone, or any other telecommunication device, including a look-a-like device, in a situation not related to a school purpose or educational function or using such device to engage in an activity that violates school rules. This rule is not violated when the student has been given clear permission from a school administrator or a designated staff member to possess or use one of the devices listed in this rule. In addition to being disciplined, students who use an electronic device in a manner which is inconsistent with this rule may have the device confiscated by school administration. Such a device will be returned to the parent.

The VCSC encourages and appreciates appropriate use of cell phones and wireless communication devices (WCD).  Inappropriate use of a cell phone or WCD may qualify a student for suspension or expulsion from school.  Examples of inappropriate use include, but are not limited to, using the cell phone/ WCD to take pictures or videos at prohibited times, displaying inappropriate images or websites, using inappropriate language in text messages, emails, or other forms of communication or using the device for bullying, harassment or intimidation.  Inappropriate use also includes sending, sharing, viewing, or possessing pictures, text messages, emails, or other material of a sexual nature in electronic or any other form on a cell phone, WCD, or other electronic device.

1.  Students may possess a cell phone or WCD in school, on school property, at after school activities, and at school related functions, provided that it is silent and not in use during normal class hours, or as may be requested by staff members.
2. Students are permitted to use cell phones/ WCD on school property up to the bell signifying the start of the school day. Students are also permitted to use cell phones / WCD during lunch and following the final dismissal bell.  Middle school students MAY NOT use cell phones/ WCD during passing periods.  High school students MAY use cell phones/ WCD during passing periods.  Headphones/ earbuds are permitted before school, at lunch and after school.
3. Phones are silent and out of sight.  Exemptions can be given by the classroom teacher and /or administration.
4. Students shall not use cell phones or WCD to take pictures or videos during regular school hours while on school property. Cell phones / WCD may only be used to take photographs and/or videos at after school events and activities unless otherwise directed by staff.
5. Cell phones/ WCD use is prohibited in restricted areas such as restrooms and locker rooms.
6. When directed by a staff member to put a cell phone or WCD away, the student must comply or face disciplinary action. Students will be sent to the office with their cell phone. The cell phone will be confiscated for the remainder of the day. Consequences will be assessed.
7. A student possessing a cell phone or WCD shall be responsible for its care and safe keeping. The Vigo County School Corporation shall not be responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged cell phones and/or WCD.
8. School Bus Rules Cell phones or WCD shall be permitted on the bus as long as they are kept in a no volume status that cannot be heard by others and the student possessing the device can still hear emergency directions. Cell phones/ WCD may be used in silent mode responsibly on the school bus.  If using headphones, one ear must be exposed in the event the driver needs to relay directions or directives.  Any inappropriate use of a cell phone or WCD will result in disciplinary action as outlined in the Student/ Parent Guide and the School Cell Phone/ WCD Policy.  Examples of inappropriate use are provided in the opening paragraph of this policy.

Social Media

Social media and websites such as Instagram and YouTube have made it very easy to post photos and information online.  To protect the privacy and safety of our students and employees, we discourage individuals from publicly posting pictures taken at school events that could identify others.  We advise you to get consent of the individual(s) photographed before posting them and to exercise caution about revealing personal details including names.  The Vigo County School Corporation cannot be responsible for information posted online in violation of these guidelines.

Electronic Devices

Electronic devices that are strictly for entertainment are not allowed during the regular school day without Administrative approval.  Example:  Nintendo Switch, etc

First Offense - On the first offense, the cell phone/WCD will be confiscated.  The phone/WCD will be made available to the student at the end of the school day and the student will be given a warning.

Second Offense - On the second offense, the cell phone/WCD will be confiscated.  The phone/WCD will be made available to the student’s parent or guardian at the end of the school day and the student will be given detention.  Additional consequences may be assessed for violations that involve bullying, harassment, intimidation, or the production and/or dissemination of material that is sexual in nature.  As with dealing with any violation of Corporation or school rules, the significance of the violation and the student’s prior disciplinary record may impact the level of disciplinary action the school finds appropriate to impose.        

Third Offense - On the third offense, the cell phone/WCD will be confiscated.  The student will be prohibited from possessing a cell phone and/or WCD for the remainder of the school year.  The parent or guardian will be contacted to pick up the cell phone/WCD.  The student will be given an extended day and/or an alternative placement consequence.  Additional consequences will be assessed for continued violation and/or camera or video use in accordance with student rights and responsibilities (suspension and Recommended Expulsion may be recommended).  Additional consequences may be assessed for violations that involve bullying, harassment, intimidation or the production and/or dissemination of material that is sexual in nature.  As with dealing with any violation of Corporation or school rules, the significance of the violation and the student’s prior disciplinary record may impact the level of disciplinary action the school finds appropriate to impose.

BULLYING

In accordance with state law, “bullying” is prohibited in the Vigo County School Corporation.  Bullying is defined as any act of threatening or intimidating behavior with the intent to harass, ridicule, humiliate, intimidate, or harm another student.  This includes engaging in the act of bullying while using school provided equipment or property.  The act of “bullying” means overt, repeated acts or gestures that may be verbal, written communications or physical acts or any other behavior that fits the definition above.  Schools in the Vigo County School Corporation are encouraged to engage students, staff, and parents in meaningful discussions about the negative aspects of bullying.  The parent involvement may be through parent organizations already in place in each school.  Parents or students who suspect that repeated acts of bullying are taking place should report the matter here.  The form is also available on the Vigo County School Corporation website.   The report or complaint shall name the alleged violator as well as the complainant.  Upon receiving the report, the principal/designee will investigate the matter at the building level and school consequences will be assessed, as appropriate, according to Rule XII under Student Rights and Responsibilities.  A report of the investigation and consequences shall be made available to the Director of Secondary and Elementary Education, as appropriate as well as the Coordinator of Student Services.

False Reporting:  A person who knowingly makes a false complaint of a violation of this policy is subject to disciplinary action.

The Superintendent will ensure that this policy is disseminated throughout the school community.  The Superintendent is authorized to develop all procedures and forms necessary to administer this policy.

INTERROGATIONS AND SEARCHES

The principal, or other members of the administrative or teaching staff designated by the principal, may search the person of a student during a school activity if the principal has reasonable suspicion for a search of the student.

INSPECTION OF LOCKERS AND VEHICLES

In accordance with Vigo County School Corporation Policies, JFG, JFGB, and accompanying regulations, the principal or his/her designee may request the assistance of a law enforcement officer to provide and handle a trained canine to detect the presence of marijuana and other controlled substances in student lockers and motor vehicle.

STUDENT LOCKERS

Each student will be issued a combination locker. Each student is to use only the locker assigned to him/her, and no one is to put anything in someone else’s locker. To assure the safety of the locker contents, the combination should not be shared with anyone else. Since lockers are school property, use nothing on the inside or outside of the locker, which will deface or damage the locker. If a student should find something in his/her locker that does not belong to him/her, he/she should turn it into “Lost and Found” immediately; otherwise, a student may be held responsible for anything found in his/her locker. Mark all books and other belongings with your name, in ink. (In case of a combination number problem, report to the Main Office.)

The student’s use of the locker does not diminish the school corporation’s ownership or control of the locker. The school corporation retains the right to inspect the locker and its contents to ensure that the locker is being used in accordance with its intended purpose and to eliminate fire or other hazards, to maintain sanitary condition, to attempt to locate lost or stolen material, and to prevent use of the locker to store prohibited or dangerous materials such as weapons, illegal drugs, or alcohol.

BOOK BAGS/COATS

Book bags and coats should be kept in lockers during the school day. They will not be allowed in the classrooms. The only exception is that students may carry a purse.

DRESS CODE GUIDELINES (Updated May 2022)

Appropriate dress in school influences the attitude of a student toward school and schoolwork.  Let us always dress in a fashion that will reflect the pride we feel in our school. Students are encouraged to use sound judgment and reflect respect for themselves and others in dress. In keeping with the goals of the school to provide a safe, healthy and nondiscriminatory environment for educating students for maximum academic and social development, the following guidelines shall be followed.

1. Clothing must cover areas from one armpit across to the other armpit, down to approximately 3 to 4 inches in length on the upper thighs (see images below).  Tops must have shoulder straps wider than spaghetti straps.  Shirts should meet the top of pants. Rips or tears in clothing should be lower than 3 to 4 inches in length. No sheer articles of clothing or mesh garments are to be worn without appropriate coverage underneath.

2. No winter coats, blankets, sunglasses or hoods up on sweatshirts are to be worn in the building between the first and last bell.
3. Backpacks must be placed in student lockers when entering the building and/ or with principal discretion.
4. Head coverings with no brim that don’t conceal your identity are permitted.
5. No article of clothing or accessory will be allowed that promotes, encourages, or advertises alcohol, drugs, tobacco products, violence, gang-related activities and/or sexual content. T-shirts that display the Confederate Flag or read “Interstate 420” are examples of inappropriate attire.
6. Students are not allowed to wear spiked chains, bracelets, belts, etc. In addition, pocket or wallet chains are also not to be worn.
7. Specialized courses may require specialized attire.
8. Appearance must not be considered a disruption to the educational process, cause a distraction, or interfere with school purposes. The administration reserves the right to review dress in a fair and equitable manner to determine if something is appropriate or inappropriate as well as the prerogative of handling the situation as deemed necessary.

The administration reserves the right to determine what constitutes appropriate dress.  Students who do not adhere to these guidelines will not be allowed to attend class.  Parents will be called if appropriate clothing is not available or the student refuses dress-code appropriate clothing.

STUDENT RELATIONSHIPS

While at school or school-sponsored activities, students are expected to conduct themselves as ladies and gentlemen. The school is not the place for social relationships that offend or embarrass others. Inappropriate displays of affection will not be tolerated. Examples of inappropriate affection include, but are not limited to: kissing, holding hands, and touching. The school will notify parents and enlist their support in addressing the behavior. Disciplinary action will be taken as needed.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

At times it may be necessary for the school to employ a substitute teacher to fill in for the regular classroom teacher. Students should remember that substitute teachers have as much authority as any regular teacher, and students are expected to show as much respect for substitutes as they would show for their regular teacher.

INSUBORDINATION

Insubordination occurs when any student intentionally fails to comply with the directions of teachers, supervisors, or administrators during any period of time when he/she is under school supervision. An insubordinate student is subject to disciplinary action.

ATTENDANCE TO SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Attendance at after school extra curricular/athletic activities is a privilege.  Students under the age of 16 must have adult supervision while a spectator for a school sport or activity.

LUNCH DETENTION 

Lunch detention may be assigned by a teacher.  Teacher assigned lunch detentions will be served in their classrooms.  Students will get their lunch from their locker or cafeteria and then report to the classroom.  Lunch detentions may also be assigned by the dean.  Lunch detentions assigned by the dean will be served on the stage in the cafeteria.  

AFTER-SCHOOL DETENTION

After-school detentions will meet for 50 minutes from 3:25 to 4:15 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday of each week. When a student fails to report to detention without prior approval by the Dean, further disciplinary action will occur. Students are to report promptly with study materials. Tardiness to detention will result in a reassignment of the detention. Truancy from detention may result in further disciplinary action. Misbehavior during detention will result in further disciplinary action.

TUESDAY EXTENSIONS:

Tuesday extensions are two hour after-school detentions served after school on the designated Tuesday from 3:25 PM - 5:15 PM.  Students are expected to work quietly the entire two hours and abide by the established rules.  Removal or failure to serve will result in an automatic two (2) days In-School Suspension.

A student who is assigned to a Tuesday Extension and who commits a serious rule infraction prior to serving the Tuesday Extension may be assigned a suspension in addition to the Tuesday Extension.

ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION (IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION)

Students are to report to Alternative Education with study materials. Students are expected to read, study, and/or complete assignments the entire time period. Sleeping, talking, or being disruptive is not permitted. No cell phones are allowed. Students who fail to comply will not receive credit for attendance and will face more serious disciplinary actions and/or an additional Alternative Education assignment.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB

The Vigo County Alternative to Suspension Program at the Boys and Girls Club is designed to meet the needs of the student when he/she is temporarily not permitted to participate in the normal school program. The student’s family is responsible for transportation to and from our facility located at 924 N. 13th Street.  The program will be in session Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Students should not arrive before 8:50am. We will operate by the VCSC calendar. If school is not in session, the program will not be in session. In the event of a two hour delay, students should arrive at 10:00 a.m. instead of 9:00 a.m. The program will end at the regular hour of 2:00 p.m.  Students should bring all their books & work with them to keep up on their school work.  Lunch will be provided by the school and will be billed to your child’s account.

OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION

An administrator or the Dean may assign out-of-school suspension for a period of one to ten days for each major offense. A longer period of suspension may be requested from the superintendent if deemed necessary by the principal. Any student suspended from school is not to be on school grounds or at any school activities during the time he/she is suspended from school, unless otherwise directed by school staff. Students suspended from school may not participate in extracurricular activities during the period of the suspension.

RECOMMENDED EXPULSION

If a student is to face disciplinary action that results in a request for Recommended Expulsion, he/she will be notified of this fact. Any student who has been recommended for Recommended Expulsion by the principal will be given an opportunity to have a hearing in front of an impartial determiner of fact, a “Hearing Examiner.” The procedures to be followed, in the event of such a hearing, will be explained to the student and his/her parents sufficiently in advance of the hearing to enable the student and his/her parents to reasonably prepare for the hearing.

RECOMMENDED DISCIPLINE PROCESS

The following information provides an overview of the discipline process at Honey Creek Middle School. The practice of progressive discipline, with students who repeatedly violate the school rules, is utilized at the discretion of the administrative team. Additional information concerning student conduct may be found in the Vigo County School Corporation Student Discipline Rules and the Honey Creek Middle School Rules.

*This list of offenses is not all-inclusive. The administration reserves the right to apply appropriate disciplinary action to other offenses as deemed necessary.

SUSPENSION AND

EXPULSION PROCEDURES

SUSPENSION PROCEDURE

When a principal (or designee) determines that a student should be suspended, the following procedures will be followed:

1.        A meeting will be held prior to the suspension of any student. At this meeting the student will be entitled to:

        (a)        a written or oral statement of the charges;

        (b)        if the student denies the charges, a summary of the evidence against the student will be presented; and,

        (c)        the student will be provided an opportunity to explain his or her conduct.

2.         The meeting shall precede suspension of the student except where the nature of the misconduct requires immediate removal. In such situations, the meeting will follow the suspension as soon as reasonably possible following the date of the suspension.

2. Following the suspension, the parent or guardian of a suspended student will be notified in writing. The notification will include the dates of the suspension, describe the student's misconduct, and the action taken by the principal.

4.        During the suspension, the student is required to complete all school work assigned during the suspension. The principal or designee will ensure the student receives notice of all assignments due during the suspension and will provide teacher contact information to the student so the student may contact the teacher if the student has any questions about the assignments. For any assignments and/or school work completed by the student during the student’s suspension period, credit will be given to the student to the same extent and in the same manner as students who are not suspended receive.

EXPULSION PROCEDURE

When a principal (or designee) recommends to the superintendent (or designee) that a student be expelled from school, the following procedures will be followed:

1. The superintendent (or designee) may conduct an expulsion meeting, or may appoint one of the following persons to conduct the expulsion meeting:

                a.        legal counsel

                b.        a member of the administrative staff who did not expel the student during the current school year and was not involved in the events giving rise to the expulsion.

2. An expulsion will not take place until the student and the student's parent are given notice of their right to appear at an expulsion meeting conducted by the superintendent or the person designated above. Failure to request and to appear at this meeting will be deemed a waiver of rights administratively to contest the expulsion or to appeal it to the Superintendent.

3.        The notice of the right to an expulsion meeting will be in writing, delivered by certified mail or by personal delivery, and contain the reasons for the expulsion and the procedure for requesting the meeting.

4.        At the expulsion meeting, the principal (or designee), will present evidence to support the charges against the student. The student or parent will have the opportunity to answer the charges against the student, and to present evidence to support the student's position. The student or student’s family has no right to counsel during an expulsion meeting.  

5.        If an expulsion meeting is held, the person conducting the expulsion meeting will make a written summary of the evidence heard at the meeting, take any action found to be appropriate, and give notice of the action taken to the student and the student's parents.

6.        The expulsion examiner shall provide to the student and parent the school corporation list of alternative education programs located in the county or in an adjacent county and of virtual charter schools in which the student may enroll during the student’s expulsion at the expulsion meeting. If no expulsion meeting is held or the student or parent does not attend the expulsion meeting, the expulsion examiner shall mail the list to the student and parent to the student’s residence.

Option 1 for school boards that hear all student expulsion appeals:

RIGHT TO APPEAL

The student or parent has the right to appeal an expulsion decision to the school board within 10 days of the receipt of notice of the action taken. The student or parent's appeal to the school board must be in writing. If an appeal is properly made, the school board at the appeal hearing will consider the written summary of the expulsion meeting and the arguments of the school administration and the student and/or the student's parents. The School Board will then take any action deemed appropriate.

Option 2 for school boards that have voted not to hear student expulsion appeals:

NO RIGHT TO APPEAL

The student or parent has no right to appeal an expulsion decision to the school board as the school board has voted not to hear student expulsion appeals.

LEGAL REFERENCE:        I.C. 20-33-8-18

                                I.C. 20-33-8-19

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CHANGE OF ADDRESS

If for any reason you have a change of address or phone number, please make these changes in Skyward as soon as possible. Please ensure your emergency contact information is updated each year.

HEALTH SERVICES

If a student becomes ill at school or has an accident or other emergency, he/she should notify the office and report to the health room. The student may rest there, or if he/she is ill enough to leave school, the school will contact the parents and make arrangements for the student to go home. Students are not to call from their cell phones or text parents for pick up when ill.  Go to the Health Office to call home.

EMERGENCY HEALTH CARDS must be filled out in Skyward at the beginning of each school year. Every effort will be made to contact the parent if a health emergency exists. If a parent cannot be reached, there are spaces on the card to list other names to contact in an emergency.

STUDENT MEDICATION

Prescription and over-the-counter medication must be brought in an original, labeled bottle from the pharmacy. Over-the-counter medications must be accompanied by a note from the parent identifying the medication and stating the dosage and time it is to be given.

All medication must be taken to the Health Office upon a student’s arrival to school. In order for the nurse or nurse’s aide to administer any medication, the proper form must be completed and be on file in the Health Office. All health and medication forms are available to students and parents in the Health Office. No class time will be taken for dispensing of medication except in an emergency situation.

VACCINATIONS REQUIRED FOR SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

Parents should have students immunized according to current state law. Students may be excluded from school for non-compliance. A list of required vaccines is posted on the nurses’ page of the V.C.S.C. website. The only objections that the State of Indiana will accept are religious or medical objections. Contact the school nurse for more information.

LOST AND FOUND

Inquiries concerning misplaced articles should be made immediately to the Guidance area.

CAFETERIA

All students and staff will have an account that only they can access by entering their seven-digit school ID number on a numerical keypad. This will be the ID number given to them when they first entered the Vigo County School Corporation. All students, regardless of the amount they pay for school meals, will have an account. Advance payments will be accepted, or students may continue to pay on a daily basis. No change will be given during the lunch period. Change will be credited to the student’s account. Parents may inquire about the status of their child’s account at any time by contacting the Cafeteria Manager. Accounts may carry over from year to year.

1. Applications for the free lunch program are available in the main office.
2. Students will be permitted to charge lunch or breakfast. Each charge must be paid in full before a student is permitted to charge again. A sandwich and milk will be provided to students who cannot charge a lunch and have lost or forgotten their lunch money.
3. All food must be eaten in the cafeteria.
4. Students waiting in the cafeteria line are to be quiet and orderly. Everyone is expected to assist in keeping the tables and floors clean. Loud talk or boisterous behavior will not be permitted.
5. We discourage fast food from being brought in at lunch. Commercial food deliveries to individual students are prohibited at all times.

LUNCH PERIOD:

• Students will have a 30-minute lunch period.
• Students recognize that when in the lunchroom, gyms and outside, all school student expectations and discipline continue to apply.
• Students will be respectful of peers and staff and follow the instructions of our lunch duty supervisors.
• Each student is responsible for returning his or her own tray and utensils to the proper window and properly disposing of their own trash. Students are not to throw trash on the floor, and will not leave trays and/or trash on the tables.
• Examples of inappropriate behavior are:

• Running in the hall or lunchroom
• Throwing of food or other objects
• Taking food or drinks out of the lunchroom
• Shouting
• Activities that may cause damage to or in the lunchroom facility

• Students needing to leave the lunchroom, gyms, or outside areas for any reason, including appointments, restroom, health care professional, etc. must communicate with and obtain permission from a lunch supervisor.
• Students are given the privilege to choose where they wish to sit in the lunchroom. However, this privilege may be lost for an indefinite length of time should the students not follow the guidelines above.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbook fees are due within 10 days of student enrollment even when a student enrolls after the first week of school.  Students will receive a single bill for all instructional fees as part of the regular student schedule. The success of the book rental system depends upon the cooperation of all students. Careless handling of books will soon break and tear the binding. This means fewer years of use and an increase in rental cost. Each student will be held responsible for the book if the book is damaged.

RESTROOMS

Students are encouraged to use the restroom before and after school, between class periods, or at the beginning of their lunch period. Students who must leave class to go to the restroom must do so on an emergency basis only. Help keep our restrooms clean!

ACCIDENTS

Every accident in the school building or on the school grounds during the school day, at practice session, or at any athletic event sponsored by the school must be reported immediately to the person in charge and the main office.

SCHOOL CLOSING OR DELAY

If conditions are such that school will not be in session, listen to local radio or television stations, or go to  web.vigoschools.org. for school closing information. The VCSC will also send out voicemails, texts, and emails. WTHI text alerts are also available.  Parents should have an emergency plan in place in the event that school is delayed or dismissed early.

RIDING THE SCHOOL BUS

Students are to ride their assigned bus only. If it is necessary for a student to ride a bus other than his/her assigned bus, the student must have a bus pass from his/her parent/guardian signed by school personnel before or during advisory. Conduct on the school buses that endangers the safe operation of the bus or the well being of the passengers will not be tolerated. All bus drivers are agents of the school and have the same authority as other members of the staff. A student who is guilty of misconduct on the bus may not be permitted to continue to ride the bus. Continued misconduct will cause a student to lose the privilege of riding a school bus.

SCHOOL BUS RULES

1.        Be courteous.

2.        Cooperate with the driver and other passengers.

3.        Loud, boisterous, or profane language or indecent conduct shall not be tolerated.

4.        Stay in your seat.

5.        Keep head, hands, and feet inside the bus.

6.        Pupils shall not tease, scuffle, trip, hold, hit, or use their hands, feet, or body in any objectionable manner.

7.        Keep the bus clean.

8.        Do not eat or drink on the bus without the bus driver’s permission.

9.        Do not smoke.

10.        Do not be destructive.

11.        No windows or doors will be opened or closed except by permission of the bus driver.

12.        The bus driver is authorized to assign seats to one or all passengers.

MOTORIZED VEHICLES: No student is allowed to drive any motorized vehicle to and from school at any time.

BICYCLES and MOPEDS: No one is allowed to ride a bicycle or moped to school.

CARE OF THE BUILDING: Students and guests are expected to treat the building and its contents with care and respect. When attending or participating in athletic practices or meetings, students are to remain in the specific area that is supervised by the faculty member in charge.

VISITORS: All visitors are required to sign in at the SPO kiosk and then go to the Main Office upon entering the building. Parents who wish to consult with teachers should call and arrange a time that is mutually agreeable to both parent and teacher.

FIRE & TORNADO DRILLS

Fire and tornado drills will be held regularly throughout the year. Fire and tornado drill instructions are posted for each area and each classroom in the building. Absolute quiet must prevail in the building during the drill in order that any directions given for the safety of students may be heard and understood.

CORRIDOR COURTESY

1.        Keep corridors open to traffic by walking to the right. Do not block traffic by standing in groups.

2.        Pass through corridors quietly. Be considerate of others in the halls and classrooms.

3.        Discard trash in the containers provided. Keep the school clean by picking up paper from the floors.

WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURES

When withdrawing from school, please be sure to do the following:

1.        Parents and student contact the Main Office.

2.        Student obtains withdrawal form from the registrar.

3.        Student secures library signature to show that no fines are owed.

4.        Student turns in books to teachers and Chromebook and charger to the Media Center.

5.        Student checks with the treasurer to make sure that no fees are owed.

6.        When all of the above are completed, the withdrawal form is to be returned to the registrar.

STUDENT USE OF TELEPHONE

Students will be allowed to use the telephone in the office, during Advisory (8:05 - 8:50 a.m.), only after permission is granted by their advisory teacher. The teacher will allow only students with an acceptable reason to use the telephone to go to the office. An acceptable reason may include, but is not limited to, forgotten assignments, musical instruments, and/or P.E. clothes. An unacceptable reason would be to make plans to go home with another student. After Advisory, the only calls that will be allowed will be for emergencies only.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

All 6TH, 7TH, and 8TH grade students may participate in one or more extracurricular activities. Students are urged to join activities of interest and to commit themselves to the activities they enjoy, not just for the benefit of the organization, but also for the students themselves. Students should plan their activity schedule carefully. Obligations at home, church, and in the community should be considered in deciding on a program that will be most suitable for the student. All activities have a faculty member or agency representative as sponsor and meet before or after the school day. Specific information regarding individual organizations is available upon request from the school office.

ACADEMICS

Honey Creek is proud of its academic program that offers a wide variety of activities for girls and boys at all grade levels. Activities include Knowledge Masters, Academic Super Bowl, Geography Bowl, Geography Bee, Science Fair, and numerous Math and Chess competitions.

ATHLETICS

Honey Creek is proud of its athletic program that offers a wide variety of sports for boys and girls at all grade levels. Sports include Tennis, Track, Cross-Country, Wrestling, Basketball, Volleyball, Bee Boppers, and Cheerleading.  Please see the Athletics page on our school website for information concerning student-athletes, eligibility, expectations, and code of conduct.

REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS

The Vigo County School Corporation has adopted a policy prohibiting anyone who is listed on the sex offender registry from coming onto school property. The VCSC works with the Vigo County Sheriff to enforce this policy.  Sex offenders may be arrested for criminal trespass for violating this policy. Exceptions (with restrictions) to the policy would only be granted in specific instances and only after following the procedures for asking for such exceptions.

SCHOOLS OFF LIMITS

The Board of School Trustees declares that no registered sex offender  may come on the property of  the Vigo County School Corporation except as otherwise provided in this policy and as required by State and Federal law.  If an administrator becomes aware that a sex offender is on school property, the administrator/designee shall direct the sex offender to leave the area immediately; except under limited circumstances as defined by our policy.

To access the V.C.S.C Registered Sex Offender Policy in its entirety, please go to www.vigoschools.org

SCHOOL PROTECTION OFFICER (SPO):

The School Protection Officer program in Vigo County employs special police officers at each school. The goal is to provide a safe and effective learning environment at every school. The officer has training that is provided by the Law Enforcement Academy, or the Sheriff’s Department, and a special orientation involving school rules & procedures.  The police officer is present to deter crime or violence but also to maintain a calm and civil atmosphere. We ask your assistance in this matter.

• Visitors to our school are asked to follow the school procedure for checking in & to be courteous when visiting.  
• Due to safety & security issues, an ID card will be required to enter the school.

APPROPRIATE EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL & PARENTAL CONCERNS

The list of corporation-wide adopted texts and basic core instructional materials, as well as the novel list, will be available at or near the beginning of the school year in a designated area at each school. If a parent has a concern about instructional material(s) or book(s) selected by his/her child’s teacher for an instructional assignment, the parent must contact the teacher and present this concern in writing. At no time during the parent concern process will the student be forced to participate in the questioned assignment. Grading for an alternative assignment will be equivalent to that for the original assignment.

VIGO COUNTY SCHOOL CORPORATION WELLNESS POLICY

In May of 2006, the Vigo County School Corporation adopted a Wellness Policy designed to benefit both the students and the staff of the VCSC. The policy consists of four major components and two appendices:

1.        NUTRITIONAL COMPONENT

The Vigo County School Corporation recognizes the need for adequate and nourishing food for growth, learning, and the maintenance of good health. It further recognizes the existence of significant research, which indicates that a positive relationship exists between adequate nutrition, good emotional and mental health, academic success, and good behavior. During activities throughout the school day where food is sold, a nutritional choice should be offered (e.g. fresh fruit or vegetables). Also, celebrations involving food should encourage the use of healthy foods and should take place at a time that will least interfere with the students eating a nutritious lunch.

2.        PHYSICAL ACTIVITY COMPONENT

The Vigo County School Corporation recognizes the link between food intake, energy expenditure (physical activity/exercise) and good physical health.

3.        EDUCATIONAL COMPONENT

The Vigo County School Corporation has taken a proactive role in the area of health, nutrition, and wellness. We encourage our teachers, faculty, and staff members to promote good health practices, and to encourage our students to acquire the knowledge and skills they need to lead healthy and productive lives.

The Vigo County School Corporation promotes a quality health and physical education program, K-12. A quality health and physical education program includes a documented, planned, and sequential curriculum for students in kindergarten through high school. Teachers follow the Indiana Academic Standards for Health and Physical Education, as they present the curriculum in their classrooms. The standards provide a flexible framework of health-related content and skills that the Vigo County School Corporation can use to develop, implement, and assess curricula designed to provide students with the knowledge that they need. We will strive to meet and/or exceed the goals of the Indiana Health and Physical Education Standards. These standards are general and apply to all levels of health and physical education from kindergarten through high school. (Please see Appendix B for a current list of the Indiana Standards for Health and Physical Education).

In addition to using these standards as a guide for our elementary teachers and or middle and high school health and physical education teachers, the Vigo County School Corporation works very closely with a number of community agencies, who provide supplementary resources and materials relating to health and physical education. Every year we plan Health-Issues In-service to provide our teachers with a professional development opportunity to help them become aware of the abundance of community resources in the area of health and physical education. We also encourage our teachers to seek out other professional development opportunities that will help them strengthen their knowledge and teaching strategies.

It is our hope that through many initiatives, students, faculty, staff and the entire school community become more aware of the importance of good health, nutrition, and wellness. Quality health and physical education programming includes the involvement of parents, health professionals, and other concerned community members.

To access the VCSC Wellness Policy in its entirety please go to: http://www.vigoschools.org

SCHOOL VIDEO SYSTEMS

For the protection of students and staff, each school has a video system to record certain areas of the school premises. These are for internal use and may not be released to outside agencies or individuals without specific approval and only in line with FERPA guidelines. The Vigo County School Corporation will cooperate with law enforcement, however, if a crime is suspected and the law enforcement agency requests to view the information in line with legal requirements.

RELEASE OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION

The school corporation may release certain “directory information,” which means information contained in an education record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed and which includes, but is not limited to, the student’s name, address, parents’ names and their home and work telephone numbers, e-mail addresses, major field of study, participation in official recognized activities and sports, height and weight of members for athletic teams, dates of attendance, awards received, teacher-selected student work with no grades displayed, pictures or video images not used in a disciplinary manner, hair and eye color, race, sex, date of birth, height, weight, grade level, and other similar information, without the consent to media organizations (including radio, television, and newspaper), colleges, civic or school-related organizations, military recruiters and state or local governmental agencies.

Parents of a student less than 18 years of age or of a student who is at leas 18 years of age desiring to object to disclosure of any or certain of the categories of directory information should request form JO-E (Denial of permission to Release Certain Directory Information without Prior Written Consent) from the superintendent’s office.

An objecting parent or student may use form JO-E to deny consent for release of all directory information, or he/she may selectively deny consent by circling those categories of directory information he/she does not wish released.

Building principals shall ensure that parents are informed of their right to object to the release of directory information and that they may file such objections at any time during the school year.

STUDENT RECORDS

Records that are maintained by the school may only be released to parents (natural biological parents) or legal custodians under FERPA guidelines. The records are not available to grandparents, other relatives, or step-parents unless those individuals are legal custodians or a legal adoption has taken place.

Vigo County School Corporation Non-Discrimination Statement

The policy of the Vigo County School Corporation is that there will be no discrimination made on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or handicap in the educational services or activities which it supports.

The School Corporation does not discriminate on the basis of disability or handicap in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs and activities. The School Corporation will comply with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973("Section 504"), 29 U.S.C. §794, and its implementing regulations at 34 C.F.R. Part 104, or Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ("Title II"), 42 U.S.C. §§ 12131-12134, and its implementing regulations at 28 C.F.R. Part 35, in the operation of its schools and facilities.

Questions regarding implementation of this policy or regarding 504 or Title II should be directed to the School Corporation's Section 504/Title II Coordinator:

For Students, please contact:

Dr. Tom Balitewicz                                         P.O. Box 3703

Director of Student Services                                Terre Haute, IN 47803

Vigo County School Corporation                         Telephone: (812) 462-4224

501 W Olive St,                                         Email: tfb@vigoschools.org

West Terre Haute, IN 47885                                 

For Employees please contact:

Michael Cox                                                 P.O. Box 3703

Chief Human Resource Officer                                Terre Haute, IN 47803

Vigo County School Corporation                         Telephone: (812) 462-4404

501 W Olive St,                                         Email: nmc2@vigoschools.org

West Terre Haute, IN 47885

For Title IX information please contact:

Matthew McClendon                                         P.O. Box 3703

Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, and                 Terre Haute, IN 47803

International Exchange Program                         Telephone: (812) 263-1141

Vigo County School Corporation                         Email: matthew.mcclendon@vigoschools.org

501 W Olive St,                                         

West Terre Haute, IN 47885