Baker High School
Parent/Student Handbook
2025 - 2026
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Glossary
Code of Conduct p. 4
School Staff pp. 5-6
Academics pp. 7-13
Behavior pp. 14-20
Attendance pp. 21-22
General School Information pp. 23-31
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Baker High School is proud to serve the community of Baker City. We believe in One Team - One Family, and it extends from our walls to the entire region we serve. Education is the key to our future, and we recognize the power and necessity of the entire Baker community as we work with our youth. It is our goal to make sure that every student graduates from Baker High with the knowledge and the wherewithal to be successful adults and productive citizens.
Baker High School Core Values
These core values drive us in all we do. These values are the cornerstones of what we strive to instill in all our staff and our students.
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Baker High School Code of Conduct
At Baker High School, we are committed to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment. To achieve this, we uphold a Code of Conduct that emphasizes respect, integrity, kindness, and hard work. This Code serves as a foundation for our daily interactions and academic pursuits.
Respect
Integrity
Kindness
Hard Work
By adhering to these principles, we create a school community where everyone can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Let us work together to build an environment that reflects our shared commitment to respect, integrity, kindness, and hard work.
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Baker High School Staff
The staff at Baker High School looks forward to this school year with a great deal of excitement and enthusiasm. Our attitude is positive and progressive. We approach the education of your child with a team effort. Parents are an important part of this team. As parents and school personnel work together, we can better meet the needs of all children. Please note the following staff at Baker High School:
Principal……….……………………………………………………………..….Skye Flanagan
Assistant Principal…………………………………………………………………….Sam Fritz
Activities Director……………………………………………….……………...Simon Lamson
11/12 Academic Advisor………………..……………………………………....Natalie Morgan
School Counselor….………………..………………………………….…………....Katie Rudi
Future Center Facilitator…………………………………………………..…...Nicole Sullivan
9/10 Academic Advisor…………………………………………………………....Kati Stuchlik
Business/Leadership..…………………………………………………………...Toni Zikmund
Choral Music/Drama..…………………………………………………………..Tanner Denne
Instrumental Music………………………..……………………….………….....Ben Blessing
Social Science/Yearbook...………………………………..…………………....Maggie Banta
Social Science………………………………………………………………..…….Kris Pepera
Social Science……………………………………………………………….….Ethan Wolston
Art…………………………………………………………………….……...Koedi Birmingham
Ag Science….………………………………………………………………...….Bibianna Gifft
Ag Science/Welding…………………………………………………..….….Nicole Merchant
Welding……..…………………………………………………………….…..…….Ryan Butler
Construction Trades………..………………………………………….....……….Bill Markgraf
Culinary Arts...…………………………………………………....……….…….Jessica Dalton
Spanish/Success……..…...………………………………………....………...Dawna Blincoe
Special Education………………………………………………………….………...Suzy Cole
Special Education……………………………………………….………....Gretchen Longwell
Science…………………………………………………………..……….…..Robert Barrington
Science…………………………………………………………….……..……….Kate Johnson
Science……………………………………………………………...…………….Kristy Morrow
Science………………………………………………………...…………….Alex Romanyshyn
Physical Education………………………………………………………..…….…..Matt Banta
Physical Education/Health……………………..……………………………….......Jeff Olivier
Health……………………………………………………………….…….…….Robbie Langrell
Language Arts…………………………………………………………….….….Travis Jensen
Language Arts/Drama…...…………………………………………………...…….Jesse Taub
Language Arts……………………………………………………………...…...Joseph Wilson
Language Arts………………………………………………………..……....…..Rachel Balza
Math………………………………………………………………………......…..Kari Anderson
Math…………………………………………..………………………......…..Kristen Spaulding
Math…………………………………………………………………..………..…..Jordan Beery
Math……………………………………………………………………….……....Jason Ramos
Math……………………………………………………………..……….……….Angie Johnson
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Admin Secretary…….…………………………………………..…………..…..Hilary McLean
Attendance Secretary………….……………………………………………..……..Hillery Lay
Guidance Secretary/Registrar………………….……………………..…….Tamera Mercado
Speech/Language Pathologist………………………………………..…….Amanda Johnson
Online Learning Specialist…..………….…………….………………….……….Nicole Miller
Certified Nurse Assistant…………………………………….……………Melanie Heideman
Instructional Assistant……………………..………………………....………..Dennis Tolman
Instructional Assistant………………………………………..…………….…..Summer Curry
Instructional Assistant…………………………………………………...………..Ina Penland
Instructional Assistant……………………………………...…………..…..……..Kayla Tisue
Instructional Assistant……………………………………………...……..…..Christine Keffer
Instructional Assistant……………………………………………….…..….Anne-Marie Popa
Instructional Assistant………………………………………………….…..….Deana Wallace
Bulldog Businesses…………………………………………..………….…..….Melody Webb
ESL………………………………………………………………………………..Aysha Vidales
ESL/Interpreter………………………………………………………….………..MaLena Wirth
Cook………………………………………………………………………...……...Becky Cross
Cook…………………………………………..…………………………...……...Marissa Voigt
Cook………………………………………………………..……………...……...Michelle Ritch
Cook……………………………………………..…………………..……...……...Sherry Miles
Head Custodian………………………………………………………......…..Stuart Carpenter
Custodian………………………….………………………………….………..…….Josh Sanal
Custodian………………………….……………………………………..….….…….Tina Sanal
Custodian…………………………………………………………..….….…….Tyler Petersohn
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Graduation Requirements
Credits: are the units by which academic progress is measured. One credit ordinarily represents an entire year’s work in a course (1.00 credit = 1.00 unit). Students earn .50 credit by passing a one-semester course. Students may lose credits earned if they are in violation of attendance standards.
Calendar: The school year is divided into two semesters. Credit is awarded on the basis of the semester grade. Only final semester grades are recorded on the student’s permanent record.
Graduation Requirements:
BHS/Oregon Diploma
Academic Area Credits Required
English Language Arts 4.0
Mathematics 3.0*
Science 3.0
Social Science 3.0
Physical Education 1.0
Health Education 1.0
Applied Arts (Second Language, Art, Career & Technical) 3.0
Career Planning 0.5
Financial Planning 0.5
Electives 5.0
Total Credits 24.0
*Credits must be at Algebra 1(a) or higher
Academics
What is a Pathway?
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It is a series of classes that prepares the student for post-secondary training in that subject and/or job readiness.
The following pathways offered at Baker High School are:
Honors Diploma
The Honors Diploma is available to those students who are seeking to challenge themselves academically and prepare themselves through rigorous coursework for life and beyond high school. Students must earn an Honors Diploma in order to be eligible for Valedictorian and Salutatorian graduation honors.
BHS defines an honors course as any dual credit or AP course. However, to maintain the high standards associated with the achievement of honors, 4 of the 8 honors course credits must come from the core (English/Math/Science/Social Studies).
To earn a BHS Honors Diploma students must meet all BHS Diploma Requirements and achieve the following thresholds & standards…
Graduation (Commencement) Exercises
All students who have successfully completed graduation requirements and are eligible to receive a high school diploma have the opportunity to participate in the graduation ceremony held in the spring. Students who have not successfully completed all graduation requirements are not eligible to participate in graduation exercises. Only those students who are in good standing may participate in the graduation ceremony.
Expanded Options Program
The following are some important details about the Expanded Options Program.
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Progress Reports
Grading will be on a semester system. Hard copies of progress reports will be mailed at the mid-way point of each semester. However, parents will be able to check their students’ progress on PowerSchool as well as Schoology at any time for an accurate reflection of the current semester grade.
Report Cards
Report cards are produced and mailed to students and parents at the completion of each Semester. Grades are issued at the end of each semester and final grades, representing 18 weeks of instruction, are issued at the end of each semester. Credits and cumulative GPAs are based on semester grades.
Letter Grades
Letter grades reflect the progress that a student makes toward the objectives and competencies of each course. A letter grade is based on the instructor’s professional evaluation of student achievement in the following areas: Completion of assignments (written papers, oral presentations, discussions, etc.); Examination scores; Mastery of pertinent skills; Application of knowledge; and Classroom participation and involvement. Special Education students are to receive grades based on progress toward goals stated in the Individual Education Program (IEP).
Grading System
A = Superior indicates mastery of subject and work of such character as to merit special recognition (4 GPA points)
B = Above Average indicates good quality work (3 GPA points)
C =Average indicates average work which meets minimum course requirements/standards (2 GPA points)
D = Below Average indicates below average work which only meets the minimum expectations of the course (1 GPA point)
F = Failing indicates failing work which does not meet minimum course requirements/standards (0 GPA points/No Credit Awarded)
P = Passing indicates satisfactory work in a planned, non-graded experience (Not a GPA grade/Credit Awarded)
NP = No Pass indicates unsatisfactory work in a planned, non-graded experience (Not a GPA grade/No Credit Awarded)
WF = Withdrawn Failing (0 GPA points/No Credit Awarded)
W = Withdrawn (Not a GPA grade/No Credit Awarded)
NG = No Grade indicates a non-graded, non-credit experience (Not a GPA grade/No Credit Awarded)
Note: Credit is granted for grades/marks A, B, C, D, and P.
Credit is not granted for grades/marks F, NP, NG, W, WF, and I. An (I) incomplete will be assigned when circumstances beyond the student or instructor’s control prevent the student form completing the coursework on time and when there is a definite goal to finish the course. The course work shall be finished in a timely fashion, usually not more than two weeks beyond the end of the grading period unless previously arranged with instructor and guidance department.
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Grade Point Average (GPA)
The high school grade point average is determined on semester grades earned while students are in grades nine through twelve. Only letter grades A-F, and WF are included in determining the GPA. GPA is calculated by adding the total points earned by semester grades and dividing by to total opportunities a student had to earn a letter grade. Point System: A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F/WF=0
Class Ranking
Students are ranked numerically according to grade point average at the end of each semester. All courses with a letter grade A-F are counted. Total class enrollments is included in computing class rank.
Honor Roll
The honor roll is determined by the semester GPA and is published each semester. To be eligible, students must have a GPA of 3.50 or above, have no incomplete grades, and be enrolled in at least five courses offering grades that can be included in the GPA.
Academic Honors
Valedictorian and Salutatorian Honors are awarded to the seniors having the highest and second highest academic standings respectively in their high school careers, based on unweighted cumulative GPA through the seventh semester. Students must earn an Honors Diploma in order to be eligible for valedictorian and salutatorian graduation honors.
Senior Honor Student designation will be awarded to the top ten percent of the students in the graduation class based strictly on cumulative GPA through the seventh semester.
Oregon Honors Diploma status is granted to graduating seniors who have obtained a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or above through seven semesters.
Academic Honesty
Baker High School owes its students an environment that teaches and supports honesty and integrity. Students have the responsibility to do their own academic tasks. For these reasons, cheating and plagiarism are unacceptable. Baker High School Instructors have a wide array of disciplinary options to deal with cheating and plagiarism, including notifying parents, loss of credit for an assignment or test, which may impact the student’s grade, and/or failing the student for the semester, or referring the matter to the school administrators for disciplinary action. Instructors will convey their individual policies regarding this issue to students and in the course syllabus as the course begins.
Policy and Procedure for Scheduling
Thoughtful academic planning is extremely important. Remember, course selections throughout high school should be based on your educational career plans/goals. All students are expected to remain in their chosen schedule for the entire school year, unless a required change of schedule is necessary. Student schedule changes will not be made for a change of heart, to be with friends, etc. Required changes that are in the best academic interest of the student will require discussion and decision by the student, parent, instructors, counselors, and/or administrators as appropriate. The student will receive either a WF or a W depending on the conditions of the withdrawal decision and will not receive credit.
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BHS Online Course Policies
Baker High School educators are passionate about the subjects and students they teach. We believe that the classroom is where quality discussion, opportunities for questions and clarification, and deep dives occur. For these reasons, we prioritize learning in the classroom environment where students can interact with peers, have hands-on experiences, and participate in a cooperative learning environment.
Baker High School does not offer online courses for students who have multiple opportunities to take in-person classes several times throughout their high school career. Online opportunities for original credit will only be offered when a student’s schedule presents a significant conflict and the student is in a position in their academic career where they will never be able to take the course or for students who transfer to Baker High School during their junior or senior years and may not have time remaining in their high school career to take the necessary courses required for graduation in the state of Oregon.
Families who wish to take online courses are encouraged to do so by exploring accredited online education options on their own. Online learning opportunities that take place outside of Baker High School are at the parent’s discretion, and BHS is not responsible for tracking or enrollment. BHS will transcript grades when official transcripts are provided.
Students who choose to take online courses through an accredited online program during the school year can request one study hall period during their seven-period schedule to accommodate that course. Please be mindful that these courses will likely not fit the requirements for an honors course at Baker High School.
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Conferences
Regular conference days are scheduled throughout the school year to review student progress. Please refer to the school calendar for conference dates.
Instructors may request a parent conference if the student is not maintaining passing grades or achieving the expected level of performance, or if the student is not maintaining behavior expectations, or in any other case the instructor considers necessary.
Baker High School encourages a student or parent in need of additional information or with questions or concerns to confer with an instructor, counselor, or administrator. A parent who wishes to confer with an instructor may call the main office at the high school for an appointment before or after school, during the instructor’s planning period, or request that the instructor call the parent to arrange a mutually convenient time. Email addresses for staff members are available on the BHS website.
Special Programs
The school provides special programs for students with disabilities that affect an individual's success at school. A student or parent with questions about these programs should contact the high school or district office.
Instructional Program
Baker School District 5J staff is charged with the responsibility to establish and implement curriculum that meets the requirements of the Oregon State Department of Education and the needs of students living in our district. Therefore, the curriculum developed and implemented in Baker School District 5J is a required public education for our students.
Students in the talented and gifted program are selected by performance on standardized tests and by a selection process involving instructors, parents, students, and administrators. These students are guided to appropriate courses and to activities that make use of their unique academic talents. Students and parents should contact the high school or district office if they have any questions.
Guidance and Counseling Services
The guidance program includes information and assistance with educational planning, career/occupational planning, assessment administration/interpretation, and post high school planning. Scholarship information is available to all students.
All students are encouraged to use the guidance and counseling services throughout their high school careers. All BHS counselors/advisors are willing to assist you with any area of your interests, concerns, and/or needs.
Disciplinary actions are taken with the aim of changing behavior patterns. Nearly all students respond satisfactorily to friendly encouragement, firm direction, and understanding guidance. In order to protect the rights of all of our students, it is important that parents and students understand the consequences of behavior. There are certain responsibilities we all share in helping students overcome behavior problems. A student who becomes involved in areas of problem behavior will be subjected to certain disciplinary actions. Depending upon the seriousness of the behavioral problem, one or more of the following actions will be taken by the school staff. In the case of severe violation of rules, the disciplinary action taken may extend beyond these guidelines to include the juvenile justice system even for the first offense. If a student’s misbehavior is directly related to an identified disability, the school staff will take such conditions into account. For students with disabilities eligible under IDEA and/or Section 504, behavioral consequences will be related to the requirements of IDEA and Section 504 and the student’s disability.
The school administration will notify the parent of privilege suspension. These privileges may include removing the student from the media center, class participation, commons use, to park on campus, or to ride the school bus and or school activities.
Informal Conversations
Student will discuss the behavior issue with teacher and/or administrator. Another incident may require a parent conference.
Conference
A conference will be held with the student, the teacher, the administrator, and/or other appropriate staff members to develop a plan for improving behavior. This plan may include a written behavioral contract.
Parent Involvement
The parent will be informed of any ongoing problems. A conference with the student, the parent, and appropriate staff members may be scheduled. If a plan is developed to help improve the student’s behavior, copies will be given to the student and the parent.
Disciplinary Reassignment/Detention
A misbehaving student may be reassigned to a seperate, supervised environment away from usual school activities. This could include a supervised detention before, during, or after school, time out form the classroom, a community service assignment, and/or an alternative school placement.
Suspension
The student may be assigned to in-school suspension or suspended out of school. School administration will exclude the student from regularly scheduled classes, all related school activities (games, dances, club meetings, concerts, plays, etc.), including extracurricular activities, and District premises not to exceed 10 school days for In-School Suspension or Out of School Suspension. A conference among the administrator, student’s parents, and other appropriate school staff may be conducted.
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Behavior
Expulsion
The principal, through the Superintendent’s designee, may recommend that at student be expelled. Through this action, the student may be excluded from the regular school program and all activities, including extracurricular activities, not to exceed beyond one calendar year. The student and parent are notified of charges by telephone and certified letter. The procedure for expulsion follows in accordance with the right of the student within due process and Administrative Regulation
Make-up Time
A student may be detained outside of school hours (for not more than two hours on a school day) on one or more days if the student violates the Student Code of Conduct or a teacher’s classroom rules. The make-up time shall not begin, however, until the student’s parents have been notified of the reason for the make-up time and can make arrangements for the student’s transportation on the day(s) of the make-up time.
Discipline of Disabled Students
A student being served by an Individual Education Program (IEP) who engages in conduct which is not related to his/her disability, and which would warrant suspension for a non-disabled student may be suspended. Suspension can be for up to including seven consecutive calendar days or ten consecutive days per school year violations of the Student Code of Conduct.
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Dress Code
Baker High School expects that all students will dress in a way that is appropriate for the school day or for any school sponsored event. Student dress choices should respect the District’s intent to sustain a community that is inclusive and does not discriminate. The primary responsibility for a student’s attire resides with the student and their parent(s) or guardian(s). The school district is responsible for seeing that student attire does not interfere with the health or safety of any student, that student attire does not contribute to a hostile or intimidating atmosphere for any student, and that dress code enforcement does not reinforce or increase marginalization of any group. Any restrictions to the way a student dresses must be necessary to support the overall educational goals of the school and must be explained within this dress code.
Dress and grooming shall be of a nature that sets a positive, professional school-wide tone of respect, courtesy, personal pride and the customs of society. Any attire that is profane, suggestive, vulgar, or advocates the use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs is in conflict with programs and curriculum is inappropriate wear for school and school activities. Not all styles and summer wear are appropriate for school and/or work. Clothes must be worn in a way such that body parts considered by societal norms to be ‘private’ are fully covered by opaque fabric.
The School District prohibits student dress or grooming practices which:
The following are not considered acceptable dress for school:
Refer to the “BHS Dress for Success” chart on the following page. Students found to be in violation of the Baker High School Dress Code policy while at school will be asked to call home for a change of clothes to be brought to them. In particular, students will be asked to change out of clothing that does not appropriately cover, leaves the student inappropriately exposed, or displays vulgar or inappropriate messaging. Students who are unable to make contact with a parent/guardian will be loaned clothing from the BHS office, such as sweatpants or t-shirts. If this is a recurring problem, a meeting may be scheduled with parents and the student to discuss a resolution.
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BHS
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Images
Short/Skirts/Dresses
Pants
Shirts
ACCEPTABLE
UNACCEPTABLE
Pants
Short/Skirts/Dresses
Images
Shirts
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STUDENT CELL PHONE POLICY & GUIDELINES
New state law prohibits phones from being used during school. Every student will be assigned a personal Yondr Pouch. While the Yondr Pouch is considered school property, it is each student’s responsibility to bring their Pouch with them to school every day and keep it in good working condition.
DAILY PROCESS
As students arrive at school, they will:
At the end of the day, students will unlock their pouch, remove their phone, and put their pouch in their backpack. Students must bring their pouch to school with them each day.
***Students arriving late or leaving early will pouch/unpouch their phones in the BHS Main Office upon check-in/out..
VIOLATIONS
Pouch Damage / Lost Pouch / Using Phone During School
If a student damages their pouch or is caught using their phone, Administration will collect the student’s phone and call home.
Repercussions for unauthorized phone use will include:
Examples of pouch damage include:
Replacement pouch cost is $30
Forgotten Pouches
If a student forgets their pouch, their phone will be stored in the Main Office. The phone will be returned to the student for lunch and at dismissal. If a student consistently forgets their pouch, it is considered lost.
Baker High School Discipline Matrix
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Offense | Occurrence | Consequence | |
Abusive expression toward staff/student. Including profanity. | | Discretion, based on severity and circumstances. Will range from Informal Conversation to Suspension. | |
Alcohol/Drugs/Tobacco/Vaping/Controlled Substance | First Second Third | Up to 3 days OSS, referral to counselor. Up to 5 days OSS, potential recommendation for expulsion (reduced to 3 with intervention program) Up to 10 days OSS; potential recommendation for expulsion (reduced with intervention program. | |
Distribution of Alcohol/Drugs/Controlled Substances | | Refer to Law Enforcement Suspension up to Expulsion | |
Arson/ pulling fire alarms/false reports re: emergency responders | First | Up to 10 days OSS, referral to law enforcement, with recommendation for expulsion | |
Assault/Fighting | First Second Third | Up to 3 days OSS, behavior contract, police involvement Up to 5 days OSS, behavior contract, police involvement Up to 10 days OSS with possible recommendation for expulsion, police involvement | |
Automobile/Parking Lot Misuse | First Second Third | 2 week suspension from parking lot. 4 week suspension from parking lot. Expulsion from parking lot for up to 1 year. | |
Bus Misconduct | First Additional | Informal Talk/Possible Bus Suspension Bus Suspension | |
Defiance of Authority/Insubordination | | Discretion, based on severity and circumstances. Will range from Informal Conversation to Suspension. | |
Displays of Affection will be limited to holding hands & hugs. | First | Student will be asked to cease behavior. | |
Explosive Devices The use or threat of use, possession, or sale of explosive material or look-a-like devices. | First | Expulsion: Referral to law enforcement. | |
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Fire Setting of fires, setting off false alarms, making false reports to emergency service personnel, bomb threats, use or possession of explosive devices including smoke bombs or firecrackers. | First | Expulsion: Referral to law enforcement. |
Firearms The possession of a firearm is defined in federal law as any weapon which will be or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of explosive. This includes the frame or receiver of any such weapons, firearm muffler, or firearm silencer or any other destructive device such as any explosive, incendiary, poison gas, flare, gun, bomb, or other such devices | First | Expulsion: Referral to law enforcement. |
Harassment Behavior that causes the victim(s) to feel pestered, tormented, or persecuted. Includes verbal and physical misconduct particularly when the action(s) are based on race, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation. | First Second Third | 1 days ISS or OSS Up to 3 days OSS Up to 5 days OSS & potential change of placement Behavior that is in violation of Title IX will be referred to the District’s Title IX Director. |
Sexual Harassment May be verbal, visual, written, or physical in nature and include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, indecent exposure, and/or physical touching. More subtle forms of harassment such as unwelcome posters, cartoons, caricatures, and jokes of a sexual nature are also included. | First Second Third | Informal Conversation up to 1 + day OSS (Referral to Title IX) Up to 3 days OSS (Referral to Title IX) Up to 5 days OSS (Referral to Title IX) ***Discretion based on severity*** |
Theft Taking, giving, or receiving property not belonging to you. Knowingly possessing any stolen property or property reported lost or missing. | First Second | Up to 3 days OSS, Referral to Law Enforcement Up to 5 days OSS, Referral to Law Enforcement |
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Retaliation against an individual because the individual has filed a harassment complaint, testified, assisted, or participated in a harassment investigation, proceeding, or hearing is prohibited. Threatening, planning to commit violence, or inciting other students to act with physical violence upon any other person, or the school in general. | First Second | Up to 5 days OSS Up to 10 days OSS; Recommendation for expulsion |
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Vandalism Intentionally damaging, defacing or destroying property. Vandalism is the willful or malicious destruction of defacement of public or private property. | | Discretion, based on severity and circumstances. Will range from Informal Conversation to Expulsion. Students/parents are responsible for the full cost of any willful, negligent, or intentional damage to District property. Defacing District property in any way is prohibited. This includes but is not limited to marking, painting, drawing, or marring District property. Failure to pay for willful, negligent, or intentional damage may result in school disciplinary action and/or legal consequences. |
Weapon Dangerous weapon is defined in Oregon law as any weapon, device, instrument, material, any look-a-like device, or substance which under the circumstance in which it is used, attempted to be used, or threatened to be used is readily capable of causing death or serious injury. | | Discretion, based on severity and circumstances. Will range from Informal Conversation to Expulsion. |
Baker High School No-Go List
While we want every student to take part and feel included in everything we do, Baker High School believes that certain experiences provided by the school are truly a privilege and not a right. As such, certain behaviors may find students on the No-Go List. If a student is on this list (reset every quarter), he/she may not be allowed to attend certain events put on by the school. This list includes, but is not limited to, events like dances, extracurricular activities, and other school-sponsored events. The following is a list of circumstances that may find a student on the No-Go List.
Except when exempt by Oregon law, all students age 6-18 who have not completed the 12th grade are required to attend regularly, a school full-time during the entire school term. All students five years of age who have been enrolled in a public school are required to attend regularly (Policy JEA). State laws require the attendance of students from 6-18 years of age. Exceptions must be approved by the district school board unless a student has graduated from high school prior to age 18.
Students are required to provide written verbal excuse from his/her parent or guardian when absent from school. If it is necessary for a student to remain indoors after an illness, parent verification is requested. Tardiness, generally is not excusable. Parents are asked to verify a student’s tardiness to school. Students are expected to remain home when ill.
Regular attendance shall be required for all students in accordance with the regulations of Baker School District and Oregon State Laws 339.010 to 339.030. Absence from school or class will be considered “excused” under the following circumstances:
A: Sick, student and/or family member (Doctor note may be required)
B. Students Medical/Dentist appt. (Doctor’s note may be required)
C. Death/Funeral
D. Religious Purposes
E. Emergency situation that requires a student’s absence
F. Pre-arranged absences, per administrator discretion
Students may be excused on a limited basis from a pre-planned classroom activity or from selected portions of the established curriculum on the basis of a disability or for personal, religious or ethnic considerations.
Attendance Calls
If students are absent from school, parents are asked to contact the school by 8:15 a.m. with a phone call, an email, or a note the day of the absence. Parents may call early in the morning. If the school does not hear from the parents, an unexcused absence will be placed on the attendance roster. Phone calls will go out at the conclusion of the day notifying parents of any absences. We must hear from a parent/guardian to excuse an absence. Students are not allowed to excuse themselves from school. Teachers are asked to pass information regarding absences on to the office immediately upon receiving it.
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Attendance – Baker Shows Up!
Students Who Enter & Return During the School Day
Students arriving at school after 8:00 a.m. must check in at the office prior to going to their classroom. Students checking in at the office will be issued a tardy slip to be given to the classroom teacher. Students leaving the school grounds during regular school hours will be signed out at the office by an adult.
Regular School Attendance Promotes Success
While educators work to help students reach state standards, it is clear that regular school attendance and successful academic performance are closely tied. Whether looking at grades or test scores, the pattern is evident: students who attend school consistently learn more and perform better. They usually fit in better socially, are healthier and more able to cope with challenges of learning. All these factors add up to a great impact on a child’s chances of becoming a successful, contributing member of society as an adult.
The building administrator or designee will send an attendance letter to the guardians of students accruing four or more absences during a semester, whether the absences has been verified by parents or remain unverified. Letters will be sent after 3 absences, 6 absences and 9 absences. Students whose attendance pattern reaches chronic absence rates (10% absence rate or greater) may have additional requirements imposed (after school, Friday School, credit recovery) in order to make up for missed instruction.
There are many reasons why students miss school. Our goal is to work with families to overcome those problems and provide the best possible education for our communities children. If you are having trouble getting your child to school, please contact the school for assistance. We want to partner with you for the best possible results. If irregular attendance continues, the principal will contact the parents and report the violation of the state compulsory attendance law to the District Attorney.
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General School Information
Assemblies
Assemblies are planned for the good of all students. It is a time to have fun, experience something new and to be with your fellow classmates. Students are required to attend all school assemblies. Student who do not attend the assembly will be consider ‘skipping’ and will have consequences as if they skipped a class. Students will be expected to be on their best behavior. Students who do not behave appropriately during an assembly will be subject to disciplinary action. Students do not have permission to leave school during an assembly.
Assembly of Students
Citizens of our country are guaranteed the right of peaceful assembly under the first and fourteenth amendments of the United States Constitution and under Article I, Section 26 of the Oregon Constitution. Students, as citizens, have the right of assembly and must also bear the responsibility for the consequences of such assembly. Students and Staff all share responsibility for the activities that take place in school. School personnel are held accountable to the general public, and in cooperation with students, are accountable for the image of the institution. Therefore, the orderly use of school facilities is required.
Bomb Threats
Staff and students will be evacuated for the building to a pre-arranged safe location until the building is determined cleared by law enforcement agencies.
Class Syllabus
Teachers will provide a class syllabus for each course. The syllabus will contain course objectives, class essentials, materials needed, overview of class assignments, grading and behavior expectations, policy for make-up work, cheating/copying and required reading and/or textbook. Students are encouraged to review each class syllabus with their parents. Parents are encouraged to visit with teachers as questions occur.
Communicable Diseases
Parents of a student with a communicable disease (school restrictable disease) are asked to telephone the school so other students who have been exposed to the disease may be alerted. A student with a school restrictable disease such as: chicken pox, diphtheria, measles, meningitis, mumps, lice infestation or nits, whooping cough, plague, rubella, scabies, staph infections, tuberculosis and/or meningococcal disease is not allowed to attend school. The school administrator may, when he/she has reasonable cause to believe the student has a school restrictable disease, exclude that student from attendance until a physician, public health nurse or school nurse certifies that the student is not infectious to others.
Discrimination Statement
Baker School District 5-J does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, marital or parental status or sex in providing education or access to benefits of education services, activities and programs in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Regarding student education records, parent(s)/guardian(s) will sign a Consent for Information Release form which contains complete directory data, and a Disclosure Statement form which informs parent(s)/guardian(s) about our use of student social security numbers. These forms will be signed when registering child(ren) for school. The Consent for Information Release provides information about the school directory containing student education records. The Disclosure Statement informs parent(s)/guardian(s) about Baker School District 5 J's use of student social security numbers.
Distribution of Materials
Students must request and receive authorization from an administrator to distribute written materials, petitions, handbills, leaflets, photographs, pictures, films, tapes, or other visual or auditory media on school property.
Materials prohibited from distribution on school property:
Due Process
A student’s due process rights will be observed in all instances, including the right to appeal the discipline decision of staff and administration.
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Earthquake Drills
An intercom announcement will indicate an earthquake drill Students will follow the instruction of their teacher. In most cases, students will duck, cover, and hold.
Emergency Medical Treatment
A student who becomes ill or is injured at school must notify his/her teacher or staff member as soon as possible. In the case of a serious illness or injury, the school staff shall attempt to notify parents according to the information provided on emergency forms and submitted by the parent to the school. Parents will need to update their contact numbers as often as necessary to stay current. School staff may administer emergency or minor first aid. The school will contact emergency medical personnel, if necessary, and will attempt to notify the student’s parents whenever the student has been transported for treatment.
Emergency Situations
Staff and students will participate in practice drills to be prepared for the various situations listed below. It is extremely important that all students follow the directions of staff members during these drills and that all drills are taken seriously. Students who fail to cooperate maybe putting others in danger. Warning signals may vary from fire alarm, intercom, or bells. Students will be given instructions from staff as to responding to this situation, which may include a lockdown procedure prior to exiting the building. Given the circumstances of the scenario, staff and students will be evacuated as quickly and safely as possible to a pre-arranged safe location.
Fire Alarm
Students should never assume a fire alarm is merely a drill. When the fire alarm sounds, students should vacate the building by the nearest fire exit and assemble 100 feet beyond the nearest structure. Students should remain outside the building until the all clear signal is given or they receive further instructions from the staff.
Field Trips
Field trips may be scheduled for educational, cultural or other extracurricular purposes. While participating at a field trip, students are considered to be “in school”. Therefore, students are subject to the Baker High School Code of Conduct. Students are required to obtain a pre-arranged absence form and have it filled out and turned into teacher conducting the field trip. This allows us to monitor attendance as well as obtain permission from parents.
Food and Eating Area
Breakfast, second breakfast, and lunch are served at Baker High School. Students eat free for breakfast, second breakfast, and lunch. Students will eat in the commons area or in a classroom if pre-approved with the teacher. Students may leave campus during lunch.
Freedom of Expression
Citizens of our country are permitted free expression under the first and fourth amendments of the United States Constitution and under Article I, Section 8, of the Oregon Constitution. Students, as citizens, have the right of free expression. Students are entitled to express their personal opinions under all reasonable circumstances, but the use of vulgar and plainly offensive, obscene or sexually explicit language undermines one of the school district’s basic missions. Symbolic or actual expression shall not interfere with the freedom of others to express themselves nor shall it substantially disrupt the orderly conduct of the school.
Harassment Policy
The Baker School District 5J is committed to a positive and productive working and learning environment. Because it adversely affects morale and interferes with employee and student ability to work and learn, harassment of any kind will not be tolerated by the District. Harassment of employees and students, whether committed by a coworker, supervisor, subordinate, contractor, volunteer, or student is considered by the District to be ust cause for disciplinary action.
Harassment includes, but is not limited to the following types; Sexual, Racial, Religious, National Origin, Age, Sexual Orientation, Parental or Marital Status, and Disability. Other types of harassment may include, but not limited to jokes, stories, pictures, or objects that are offensive, tend to alarm, annoy, abuse, or demean an individual and/or group. Teachers and administration will address all forms of harassment. Students who harass other students may be assigned to an Alternative Learning Environment.
All complaints about behavior that may violate this policy shall be promptly investigated. Any student, who has knowledge of or is a victim of hazing, harassment, intimation, bullying, or menacing is encouraged to immediately report his/her concerns to the building principal or vice principal. The report may be made anonymously. A student may also report concerns to a teacher or counselor who will be responsible for notifying the appropriate administrators.
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A student and/or parent with a complaint regarding possible discrimination of a student on the basis of gender should contact the building principal.
Health Services
The School Based Health Center is to provide preventative and primary health care as well as information regarding health education. The Health Center will promote healthy lifestyle choices and encourage students to take responsibility for their personal health and health care. Students may receive information regarding the many issues facing high school students today such as: eating disorders, sexually transmitted diseases, tobacco cessation programs, and the effects of drug and alcohol. The School Based Health Center provides a safe, confidential approach to a student’s health concerns and is available to all students who have a consent form on file.
Homework Requests
Students are encouraged to check with teachers immediately following an absence. When a student is absent for one to two days, teachers will provide homework assignments upon the student’s return to school. The attendance office will only request homework assignments for extended absences.
Infectious Disease Instruction
According to Oregon Law, an age appropriate plan of instruction regarding diseases including AIDS, HIV, and Hepatitis B has been included as an integral part of the district’s health curriculum. Any parent may request his/her student be excused from that portion of the instructional program by contacting the Vice Principal.
Immunization
A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or statement that, for medical or religious reasons, the student should not be immunized. Any student not in compliance with Oregon statutes and rules related to immunization may be excluded from school until such time as he/she has met immunization requirements. Proof of immunization may be personal records from a licensed physician or public health clinic. Immunizations are available at a low cost in the Baker High School health Center.
Instructional Material Complaints
Complaints by student for parents about instructional materials should be directed to the teacher or building principal. Should the student or parent, following initial efforts at informal resolution of the complaint desire to file a formal complaint, the appropriate forms and procedure guidelines may be requested from the school office. The building principal will be available to assist in the completion of such forms as requested.
Library
The Baker High School Library is open from 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Books may be checked out for three weeks at a time. Library space may be reserved for groups/meetings/clubs through the librarian. All library fines and fees must be cleared before material may be borrowed and to participate in extracurricular activities and/or graduation ceremonies.
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Lockers
Lockers are assigned for convenient storage for books, school materials and students’ personal property. Students will be given a locker number and combination during student registration. Any locker change must be done through the office. The student assigned to the locker has full responsibility for the locker and must keep the locker in working conditions at all times. Writing on lockers is prohibited. The student also has full responsibility for the security of the locker and for making sure it is locked and the combination is not available to others. The school accepts to no responsibility for the contents of student lockers. Lockers remain under the jurisdiction of the district even when assigned to individual students. The district reserves the right to inspect all lockers. Searches of lockers may be conducted at any time there is reasonable suspicion to do so, whether or not the student is present.
Lost and Found
The Lost and Found is located in the main office as well as the commons. Unclaimed clothing and other personal items will be discarded or given to charity if not claimed at the end of each 9 weeks. Lost or suspected theft of personal or district property should be reported to the school office.
No-Go List
Students who are on the No-Go List will not be allowed to attend special functions at BHS. Functions include, but are not limited to: Dances/Assemblies/Celebrations/Graduation.
Non-Student Loitering
To help protect students and property, please notify school officials immediately if any persons who are not Baker High School students or staff are inside the building or on school property. Non Baker High School students are not allowed on campus. Citations will be issued for trespassing. BHS students who have been suspended may not be on campus during the time of the suspension. BHS does not allow student guests to be present on campus at any time other than at lunch with prior administrative approval.
Parking on Campus
Student parking is located by the big gym. Students are expected to park as the lines indicate. Students who park against the parking pattern, unsafely, min non-parking areas such as loading zones and fire lanes may be subject to towing and/or citation by the Student Resource Officer. Vehicles parked on campus are subject to drug dog inspection. Students are expected to follow all driving laws while on campus. Students who drive unsafely, recklessly, or refuse to follow school policies may have their privilege of parking on campus terminated for the remainder of the year. Student vehicles may be parked on district property on the condition that the student allows the vehicle and its contents to be searched upon reasonable suspicion.
Pledge of Allegiance
All students will be given the opportunity to participate in the “Pledge of Allegiance” during the week. Students may refrain from participation but must maintain a respectful silence during this time. Disrespectful behavior will result in a behavior referral.
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Posters
Signs and posters may only be put up with approval from an advisor or an administrator. Signs and posters not related to school will not be allowed without administrative approval.
Pre-Arranged Absences
Students should complete a pre-arranged absence for for all planned family trips, college visitations, job shadows, field trips, club trips, or anything that will mean students are absent from school for a non-school activity. Students pick up forms from main office and are responsible for having teachers fill out the form, and to obtain parent signatures. (18 year old students still must obtain parent signatures).
Program Exemptions
Students may be excused from a state required program or learning activity for reasons of religion, disability or other reasons deemed appropriate by the district.
Questioning By Law Enforcement
Should law enforcement officials find it necessary to question students during the school day or during periods of extracurricular activities, the principal or designee will be available when appropriate. A reasonable attempt will be made to contact parent/guardian. Parents are advised that in child abuse cases CSF and/or law enforcement will be notified and district personnel may be prohibited from contacting parents.
Searches/Drug Dogs
Official search dogs may be used during the school day to search lockers and other appropriate areas for illegal items. The student parking lot is considered part of school property and drug dogs may search vehicles. School officials may search the student and his/her personal property when there is reasonable suspicion to believe a student is concealing evidence of an illegal act, violation of the Student Code of Conduct or district policy. Illegal items or other possessions determined to be a threat to the safety or security of others will be seized by school officials. Referrals for illegal items found during a search will be referred to appropriate law enforcement.
School Publications
All aspects of school sponsored publications, including newspaper and yearbooks are completely under the supervision of the teacher and/or administrator. Students may be required to submit such publications to the administrator for approval.
Student Insurance
The district makes available to students and parents a low cost student accident insurance program. Parents are responsible for paying the premiums (if coverage is desired) and for submitting claims through the district office. The district shall not be responsible for costs of treating injuries or assume liability for any other costs associated with the injury. Insurance verification is required for participation in all activities and athletic programs. Catastrophic insurance is needed in addition to personal insurance.
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Student Resource Officer
The purpose of the Student Resource Officer (SRO) is to continue to provide a safe and positive environment for all Baker High School Students. The SRO will contact students as necessary. Any student who violates the Baker High School Code of Conduct may be referred to the SRO. The officer will also provide intervention strategies related to drug and alcohol issues.
Student Search
To protect the educational climate and the health and safety of students and staff, school officials are empowered to conduct searches of students and student property when the school official has a reasonable suspicion that there has been a violation of a law, District policy, or school rule or policy. Searches will maintain dignity for students, and searches will be done with a witness present at all times.Searches will be limited to backpacks, purses, lockers. Students may be asked to empty pockets.Staff will never conduct a search that requires them to contact the student at any time.
Textbooks/School Materials
Students are responsible for the care and upkeep of books and other school equipment that is issued or checked out. The student will be required to pay for lost or damaged books and/or school equipment. It is the responsibility of the student to clear all non-returned book issues. If no record indicated the student has returned the book to the teacher or library, the student will be responsible for paying for the book. Please take care of all school materials.
Transportation
Any student failing to abide by the district code of conduct while riding on school transportation or while waiting at a bus stop may be denied transportation services and/or be subject to disciplinary action.
What circumstances constitute a bus suspension of a student?
The transportation department in conjunction with District officials reserve the right to suspend students from riding the bus. Parents/Guardians will be contacted regarding bus-related issues prior to any suspension from bus transportation. In all cases Baker School District 5J policy EEACC-AR Student Conduct and Discipline for District-Approved Student Transportation will be referred and followed. Students or parents who want a copy of this policy may contact the district office.
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Visitors
Parents are encouraged to visit Baker High School. However, to ensure the safety and welfare of students, all non-staff members or non-district employees must check in at the main office and receive a pass to be on campus. To minimize the interruptions to learning and to address safety issues, student’s guests are not allowed during the school day. Non Baker High School students should not be on campus during the school day.
Medicine at School
It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure that the school is informed in writing of any medicine concerns regarding his/her student.
A student who must take prescriptions or over the counter medications during the school day must bring the medicine and a written request to administrator the medication signed by his/her parent to the main office. The request must include, for prescription medicine, the physician’s written instructions, name of medication, dosage, time intervals and method of administration. The medicine must be in the original container and clearly show the student’s name, physician’s name and instructions. Over the counter medication should be accompanied by parent’s written instructions in grade K-6 and kept in its original container.
School Safety
All students have the right and expectation to feel safe at school. Therefore, school safety is a priority at Baker High School. Any threat made against the school, students and/or staff will be taken seriously and will result in several consequences for the student(s) initiating or participating in such acts. Baker High School promotes zero tolerance for any violence or threat of violence. Students who violate this zero tolerance policy will be removed from school as determined by the school administration. Verbal and physical harassment is a form of violence and will not be tolerated. Any student who intimidatews and/or harassess another student(s) may be suspended or assigned to an Alternative Learning Environment. Baker High School promotes a respectful environment in which all students will feel connected and safe.
School Threats
Any student(s) who initiates and/or participates in threatening the school and/or pulling a fire alarm will be suspended from school until completion of the investigation process, with possible expulsion as determined by the administration. As part of the process, students may be required to have a psychological evaluation completed prior to returning to school. These are serious offenses and law enforcement agencies will be involved in the disciplinary action taken.
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Parental Decision to Consider Private Placement for Students
Baker School District 5J has no obligation to pay for academic programs, emotional or health treatment programs and/or any treatment facilities that are not considered part of Baker School District 5J. Parents may determine a need for private placement of their students, however, Baker School District 5J is not responsible for payment of such placement without prior approval from the Superintendent of the school district and a determination that the student’s needs cannot be met within the Baker School District 5J system. Parents must contact the building principal at least ten days to determining the need for a private placement in order to provide adequate time for the building principal to evaluate and address the concerns, placement and option for educational opportunities.
Placement for a Special Education student will be discussed and approved at his/her Individual Education Plan (IEP) meeting. The IEP team will determine placement for students receiving specifically designed instruction.
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