2007-2008 Centennial 7-12 Student/Parent Handbook

2007-2008

Centennial
Junior-Senior High Student/Parent Handbook

August 15, 2007

Centennial students and parents:

Welcome back to the 2007-2008 school year. I trust you have profited from a restful and enjoyable summer vacation and are looking forward to rejoining your friends for another school year. It is the desire of the Centennial family of teachers, staff, and administration to make this a rewarding and profitable year.

This handbook is intended to be used by students, parents and staff as a guide to the rules, regulations, and general information about Centennial Junior/Senior High School. Each student is responsible for becoming familiar with the handbook and knowing the information contained in it. Parents are encouraged to use this handbook as a resource and to assist their child in following the rules contained in this handbook.

Although the information found in this handbook is detailed and specific on many topics, the handbook is not intended to be all encompassing so as to cover every situation and circumstance that may arise during any school day, or school year. This handbook does not create a “contract.” The administration reserves the right to make decisions and make rule revisions at any time to implement the educational program and to assure the well being of all students. The administration will be responsible for interpreting the rules contained in the handbook. Should a situation or circumstance arise that is not specifically covered in this handbook, the administration will make a decision based upon all applicable school district policies, and state and federal statutes and regulations.

Sincerely,

Ryan Ruhl
Secondary Principal

Members of the Board of Education
Name Position
Mike Tomes President
John Davis Vice-President
Marvin Linhorst Secretary
Julie Sorensen Treasurer
Wayne Heine Member
Natalie Geis Member

Administration
Tim DeWaard Superintendent
Ryan Ruhl Secondary Principal
Mark Murphy Elementary Principal
Dean Davis Athletic Director
Dr. Barbara Heckathorn Special Services Director

Teaching Staff
Teaching Staff

Name Curricular Area
Barb Barth Special Education
Sue Bollwitt 7-8 English, FAME
Mark Buss Social Studies
Stephanie Buzek Math
Elizabeth Crabtree Business/Math FBLA
Mary Cummins Art / Media
Dean Davis Math/AD
Bob Fish Counselor
Megan Faris Spanish
Marietta Glasshoff Family Consumer Science
Ashley Glesmann Special Education
Megan Hammer Assessment /Title Services
Kelly Heser PE/Art
Amy Hottovy English
Cody Huisman Social Studies/Psychology/Sociology
Rob Johansen Industrial Technology
Jeff Johnson Special Education
Elizabeth Jones Instrumental Music
Josh Lanik PE/Physical Conditioning
Jim McInerney Science
Mark Ortmeier Science/PE
Aaron Plas Business
Amy Rasmussen Agriculture
Ben Rickert Vocal Music
Brian Sams Science
Sherry Tonniges English
Adam Verhage Math
Bob Vrbka Technology

Support Staff
Name Position
Marge Rhodes Bookkeeper
Richard Rolenc Custodian Supervisor
Bill Mogee Custodian
Bev Erks Custodian
Shannon Havel Custodian
Cheryl Stahr Custodian
TBA Custodian
Justine Wiemer Supervisor Food Service
Teresa Beatty Food Service
Diane Erks Food Service
Kathy Heine Food Service
Lori Leif Food Service
Vada Schleusner Food Service
Bonnie Liedtke Media, Paraeducator
Susan Arnold Nurse
Karin Cradick Paraeducator
Marilyn Crawford Paraeducator
Mary Faig Paraeducator
Judy Hannon Paraeducator
RaNay Kratochvil Paraeducator
Beth Johnson Paraeducator
Gladys Luebbe Paraeducator
TBA Paraeducator
Lisa Munsterman Paraeducator
Pam Vandeloo Paraeducator
Tonia Vavra Paraeducator
Maxine Rieger Paraeducator
Leah Bjerrum Secretary
Susan Dickey Secretary
Linda Stuhr Secretary
Velma Watson Secretary
Dennis Cradick Supervisor Transportation
Mary Eikenhorst Transportation
Ron Erks Transportation
Mary Faig Transportation
Judy Hannon Transportation
Kathy Heine Transportation/Food Service
Lynn Leif Transportation
RaNay Kratochvil Transportation
Bill Mogee Transportation
Shirley Obermier Transportation
Cindy Redfield Transportation
Barb Rhodes Transportation
Roy Richters, Jr. Transportation
Pam Vandeloo Transportation

SCHOOL CALENDAR FOR 2007-08

August 13 - Staff In-service

August 14 - Staff In-service

August 15 - First Student Day of School

September 3 - Labor Day, No School

September 24 - Parent/Teacher Conferences
(4-8:45)—1:30 Dismissal

September 25 - Parent/Teacher Conferences
(4-8:45)—1:30 Dismissal

October 18 - End of 1st Quarter

October 19 - Non-Contract Day, No School

November 22 - 1:30 Early Dismissal

November 23 & 24 - Thanksgiving, No School

December 21 - End of 1st Semester

December 24 - January 3 - Christmas Vacation, No School

January 3 - Teacher In-service (No School)

January 4 - School Resumes

February 7 & 8 - Parent/Teacher Conferences (4:30-8)—2:30 Dismissal
February 15 - Non-Contract Day, No School

March 7 - End of 3rd Quarter

March 21-24 - Easter Break, No School

April 23 - Teacher In-Service, No School

May 15 - Last Day of School

MISSION STATEMENT

The people of this district are committed to educational excellence in a positive, creative and caring environment, preparing each student to be a responsible, productive citizen in our ever-changing global community.

GOVERNING VALUES

We believe…
-every student can learn.
-in the dignity of each student.
-in the individual growth of each student.
-every student can be an adaptable life-long learner.
-every student can be a responsible, productive citizen.
-the development of self-esteem leads to greater learning.
-in providing curriculum and strategies to meet the needs of all students.
-in the shared responsibility and commitment of the family and school-community to educational excellence.

MUTUAL RESPECT

The Centennial Public School expects every staff member and student to be treated with respect and dignity. A show of disrespect toward a staff member or insubordination on the part of the student will not be tolerated.

MULTI-CULTURAL EDUCATION

It is the policy of the Centennial Public School system to utilize the resources of curriculum, instruction, in-service, counseling and guidance to reflect the racial, ethnic, language, and cultural heritage of both historical and modern-day Untied States of America by observing the following objectives:

1. To select materials and methods that will eliminate bias and stereotype in our schools.
2. To conduct in-service programs for our staff that will help them to understand a multi-cultural approach and to reflect it in their teaching and administrative duties.
3. To encourage all students to grow in self-esteem and to understand and develop their academic and human potential.
4. To guard against the grouping of students that reflect racial, ethnic, language, or cultural bias.

COMPLAINT PROCEDURES
The proper procedures for a parent or student to make complaints or raise concerns about school staff or the school programs or activities are set forth below. Other procedures exist to address discrimination or harassment, the bullying of students, and to challenge disciplinary actions, and such other procedures should be used to address those types of concerns.

1. Complaint procedure:
Step 1. Have a scheduled conference with the staff person involved in the complaint matter.
Step 2. Appeal to the Principal if the matter is not resolved at Step 1.
Step 3. Appeal to the Superintendent if the matter is still unresolved at Step 2.
Step 4. Appeal to the Board of Education if the matter is still unresolved at Step 3.
2. Conditions Applicable to All Levels of Complaint Procedure:
All information to be considered at each appeal step should be placed in writing in order to be most effective. Appeal decisions shall be expedited as quickly as possible.

SCHOOL DAY
Daily Schedule
ENTER SCHOOL BUILDING 8:05

CLASS WARNING TONE 8:15

PERIOD 1 8:20 - - - 9:07

PERIOD 2 9:10 - - - 9:57

PERIOD 3 10:00 - - 10:47

PERIOD 4 10:50 - -11:37

JUNIOR HIGH LUNCH 11:40 - - 12:10

PERIOD 5 (JUNIOR HIGH) 12:10 - -12:56

PERIOD 5 (HIGH SCHOOL) 11:40 - - 12:27

SENIOR HIGH LUNCH 12:27 - - 12:56

PERIOD 6 12:59 - - -1:46

PERIOD 7 1:49 - - 2:36

PERIOD 8 2:39 - - - 3:26
Channel One will be shown during study halls and at lunch.

SEVERE WEATHER AND SCHOOL CANCELLATIONS

SCHOOL CLOSINGS
Advance notice of school closings will be announced by the following radio and TV stations:

KZKX in Lincoln – 96.9 FM KLKN TV in Lincoln

KAWL in York – 104.9 FM, 1370 AM KFAB in Omaha – 1110 AM

KOLN TV in Lincoln KZEN in Central City – 100.3

After School Starts. Every attempt will be made to avoid closing school once classes are in session. In some instances closing school during the day is inevitable if children are to safely return home before the brunt of a major storm hits. In these cases as much advance notice as possible will be given to parents. If school is closed during the day the notice will be broadcast by the media and parents should have a plan in place to accommodate these circumstances.

What Not To Do. Parents should not attempt to come to school during a tornado warning. School officials are not permitted to release students from the school building during a tornado warning. Tornado safety procedures are practiced regularly by students and staff members. Also, parents are urged not to call radio and television stations and school buildings during severe weather. Every effort will be made to provide accurate and timely information through the media.

Emergency Conditions. Centennial Public School has a signal which, when activated, includes the necessity to either evacuate the building or to move to safer areas of the building. All regular drills are held as required by law through the school year. There are plans for Emergency Exit system, Tornado Warning System, and Critical Incident Response.

Tornado Drills: Students are to move quietly and promptly to the location noted by the teacher. Follow all directions that are given.

Fire Drills: Sec. 81-52 of Nebraska School Law require fire drills to be held once a month. When the alarm sounds, all people (employees included) will file out in a quiet and orderly fashion through the prescribed exit to a predetermined location.
ABSOLUTELY NO RUNNING. The proper exit location from all rooms will be shared by each teacher. When the “return to building” announcement is given, students are requested to return quietly to your respective rooms.

USE OF BUILDING AND GROUNDS

Entering and Leaving the Building

Beginning Of School Students should not be on school grounds earlier than necessary. The first bell will ring at 8:05 a.m. Students are to stay in the lobby and are not to go to any other part of the building without permission until the first bell.

During the School Day: Students are to remain on campus unless excused in accordance with school policies

End of School: Our regular school day ends at 3:20 p.m. It is important that students who are involved in after school activities report to the designated area on time. All other students must clear the building as soon as possible.

Visitors
All visitors must report to the secondary office, upon entering the main entrance, to sign in, in order to receive a visitor's pass. Parents are welcome at all times. Please sign in at the secondary office upon entering the main entrance to the school. Visitations during the first week of school and the last week of school will require extraordinary reasons or permission from administrators.

Smoke-Free Building
Centennial declares all of our schools buildings to be smoke-free. We would appreciate your help in meeting the goal of smoke- and tobacco-free buildings for our children.
When you attend school events, including athletic events, please remember that our buildings are smoke- and tobacco-free and abide by our District’s policy.

Care of School Property
1. Students are responsible for the proper care of all books, equipment, supplies and furniture supplied by the school.

2. Students who disfigure property, break windows or do other damage to school property or equipment will be required to pay for the damage done or replace the item.

Fines are determined on books according to the following criteria:

Lost Book: Replacement cost
Missing one or both covers: Same as lost book
Loose Cover: $1.00
Missing Page: 50 cents per page (up to replacement cost)
Torn Page: 20 cents per page (up to replacement cost)
Marks that cannot be erased: 20 cents per mark (up to replacement cost)

School-issued items that are stolen or damaged from unlocked lockers are the responsibility of the student to whom they were issued. Students must pay all fines before they can receive school publications and final grades.

Lockers
Each student will be assigned a locker. Each locker will be provided with a built-in lock for security. Students must use their own lockers and are not to share lockers with other students except as assigned by school officials. We recommend that the locker is locked and remains locked at all times. Students are expected to keep all books, etc., in their assigned locker. Students are also responsible for the cleanliness inside their locker and the door of their locker. Students may be assessed a fine for damage to lockers.

Searches of Lockers and Other Types of Searches
Student lockers, desks, computer equipment, and other such property are owned by the school. The school exercises exclusive control over school property. Students should not expect privacy regarding usage of or items placed in or on school property, including student vehicles parked on school property, because school property is subject to search at any time by school officials. Periodic, random searches of lockers, desks, computers and other such property may be conducted in the discretion of the administration.

The following rules shall apply to searches of students and of a student's personal property and to the seizure of items in a student's possession or control:

1. School officials may conduct a search if there is a reasonable basis to believe that the search will uncover evidence of a crime or a school rule violation. The search must be conducted in a reasonable manner under the circumstances.

2. Illegal items or other items reasonably determined to be a threat to the safety of others or a threat to educational purposes may be taken and kept by school officials. Any firearm or other weapon shall be confiscated and delivered to law enforcement officials as soon as practicable.

3. Items which have been or are reasonably expected to be used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process (that is, “nuisance items”) may be removed from student possession.

Use of Telephone
Incoming Calls: The office will attempt to cooperate with parents or guardians in order to deliver messages to students during school hours. Messages will be written and delivered to students. Only in cases of extreme urgency will students be called out of class. Calls for students during school hours are disturbing to normal school routine and should be held to a minimum and emergency purposes only.

Out-Going Calls: The school telephone is primarily for school business and shall not be used for personal calls. Students finding it necessary to make calls are to use the pay telephone. In an emergency, an office phone may be used with permission from office personnel.

Electronic Devices

1. PURPOSE AND PHILOSOPHY

Centennial Public School District strongly discourages students from bringing and/or using electronic devices at school. The use of electronic devices can be disruptive to the educational process and are items that are frequently lost or stolen. The District is not responsible for the security and safekeeping of these items and is not financially responsible for any damage, destruction, or loss of electronic devices. In order to maintain a secure and orderly learning environment, and to promote respect and courtesy regarding the use of electronic devices, the District hereby establishes the following rules and regulations governing student use of electronic devices, and procedures to address student misuse of electronic devices.

2. DEFINITIONS

“Electronic devices,” include, but are not limited to, cell phones, Mp3 players, iPods, personal digital assistants (PDAs), compact disc players, portable game consoles, cameras, digital scanners, lap top computers, and other electronic or battery powered instruments which transmit voice, text, or data from one person to another.

3. ELECTRONIC DEVICE USE

3.1 Students enrolled in Centennial Public School District are not permitted to use any electronic devices during class time except as otherwise provided by this policy. Cell phone usage is strictly prohibited during any class period; including voice usage, digital imaging, or text messaging.

3.1.1 Electronic devices are not permitted for any use during the school day (8:20 a.m. to 3:26 p.m.) except as otherwise provided by this policy.

3.1.2 Electronic devices may be used during class time when specifically approved by the teacher or a school administrator in conjunction with appropriate and authorized class or school activities or events (i.e., student use of a camera during a photography class; student use of a lap top computer for a class presentation).

3.1.3 Students may use electronic devices during class time when authorized pursuant to an Individual Education Plan (IEP), a Section 504 Accommodation Plan, or a Health Care Plan.

4. VIOLATIONS

4.1 Students shall not use electronic devices at any time or place for: (a) activities which disrupt the educational environment; (b) illegal activities in violation of state or federal laws or regulations; (c) unethical activities, such as cheating on assignments or tests; (d) immoral or pornographic activities; (e) activities in violation of Board or school policies and procedures relating to student conduct and harassment; or (f) activities which invade the privacy of others. Such student misuses will be dealt with as serious school violations, and immediate and appropriate disciplinary action will be imposed, including, but not limited to, suspension and expulsion from school.

4.2 Electronic devices used in violation of this policy may be confiscated by school personnel and returned to the student or parent / guardian at an appropriate time. If an electronic device is confiscated, the electronic device shall be taken to the school’s main office to be identified, placed in a secure area, and returned to the student and/or the student’s parent/guardian in a consistent and orderly way.

4.3 First Violation: Depending upon the nature of the violation and the imposition of other appropriate disciplinary action, consequences at a minimum may include a relinquishment of the electronic device to the school administration and a conference between the student and school principal. The electronic device shall remain in the possession of the school administration until such time as the student personally comes to the school’s main office and retrieves the electronic device.

4.4 Second Violation: Depending upon the nature of the violation and the imposition of other appropriate disciplinary action, consequences at a minimum may include a relinquishment of the electronic device to the school administration and a conference between the student and his/her parent/guardian and the school principal. The electronic device shall remain in the possession of the school administration until such time as the student’s parent/guardian personally comes to the school’s main office and retrieves the electronic device.

4.5 Third Violation: Depending upon the nature of the violation and the imposition of other appropriate disciplinary action, consequences at a minimum may include a relinquishment of the electronic device to the school administration, a conference between the student and his/her parent/guardian and the school principal, and suspension of the student from school. The electronic device shall remain in the possession of the school administration until such time as the student’s parent/guardian personally comes to the school’s main office and retrieves the electronic device.

4.6 Subsequent Violations: Students who are repeat offenders of this policy shall be subject to the imposition of any appropriate disciplinary action, which may include, suspension and expulsion from school.

4.7 Students and/or parents/guardians, as applicable, are expected to claim a confiscated electronic device within ten (10) days of the date it was relinquished. The school shall not be responsible, financially or otherwise, for any unclaimed electronic devices after this time period.

5. SEARCH: Electronic devices confiscated under this policy shall be subject to reasonable searches, including search of phone number directory, voice mail, and text messages, upon determination by school officials that the facts and circumstances establish reasonable grounds for believing that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the rules of the school.

Student Valuables
Students, not the school, are responsible for their personal property. Students are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money or items of value to school. If it is necessary to bring valuable items or more money than is needed to pay for lunch, leave the money or valuables with a staff member in the school office for temporary and safe-keeping. Even then, the school is not in a position to guarantee that the student’s property will not be subject to loss, theft, or damage.

Lost and Found
Students who find lost articles are asked to take them to the office, where the articles can be claimed by the owner. If articles are lost at school, report that loss to office personnel.

Accidents
Every accident in the school building, on the school grounds, at practice sessions, or at any athletic event sponsored by the school must be reported immediately to the Principal/ Athletic Director.

Insurance
Under Nebraska law the District may not use school funds to provide general student accident or athletic insurance. The District requires that all student participants in athletic programs have injury and accident insurance and encourages all students who are in classes with risk of personal injury or accident to have insurance coverage. The district does not make recommendations, nor handle the premiums or claims for any insurance company, agent or carrier. Information about student insurance providers will be available in the school office or on school bulletin boards.

Bulletins and Announcements
Bulletin boards and display cases are available for school-related and approved materials to be posted and displayed. Posters to be used in the halls or materials for distribution will need to be approved by the Principal’s office. The person or organization responsible for distributing the posters is responsible to see that all posters are removed within a week after the event.

Copyright and Fair Use Policy
It is the school’s policy to follow the federal copyright law. Students are reminded that, when using school equipment and when completing course work, they also must follow the federal copyright laws. The federal copyright law governs the reproduction of works of authorship. Copyrighted works are protected regardless of the medium in which they are created or reproduced; thus, copyright extends to digital works and works transformed into a digital format. Copyrighted works are not limited to those that bear a copyright notice.

The “fair use” doctrine allows limited reproduction of copyrighted works for educational and research purposes. The relevant portion of the copyright statue provides that the “fair use” of a copyrighted work, including reproduction “for purposes such as criticism, news reporting, teaching (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship, or research” is not an infringement of copyright. The law lists the following factors as the ones to be evaluated in determining whether a particular use of a copyrighted work is a permitted “fair use,” rather than an infringement of the copyright:

· the purpose and character of the use, including whether such use is of a commercial nature or is for nonprofit educational purposes;
· the nature of the copyrighted work;
· the amount and substantiality of the portion used in relation to the copyrighted work as a whole, and
· the effect of the use upon the potential market for or value of the copyrighted work.

Although all of these factors will be considered, the last factor is the most important in determining whether a particular use is “fair.” Students should seek assistance from a faculty member if there are any questions regarding what may be copied.

ATTENDANCE

Attendance Policy
Regular and punctual student attendance is required. The Board's policies require such attendance, the administration is responsible for developing further attendance rules and regulations, and students and parents are responsible for developing behaviors which will result in regular and punctual student attendance.

Attendance and Absences
Absences From School - Definitions. An absence from school will be reported as: (a) an excused absence or (b) an unexcused absence.

1. Excused Absences. Absences should be cleared through the Principal's office in advance whenever possible. An absence or tardy, even by parental approval, may not be excused. All absences, except for illness and/or death in the family, require advance approval. An absence for any of the following reasons will be excused, provided the required procedures have been followed:
(A) Attendance at a funeral for a member of the immediate family (parents, siblings, and grandparents),
(B) Illness which causes a student to be absent from school,
(C) Doctor or dental appointment which require student to be absent from school, (with note from doctor or dentist to verify excuse)
(D) Court appearances that are required by a court order and the student is not responsible for needing to be in court,
(E) School sponsored activities which require students to be absent from school,
(F) Family trips in which student accompanies parent(s)/legal guardian(s),
(G) Other absences which have received prior approval from the Principal.

The Principal has the discretion to deny approval for the latter two reasons, depending on circumstances such as the student's number of other absences, the student's academic status, the tests or other projects which may be missed, and in the case of a family trip, whether the trip could be taken during non-school time and the educational nature of the trip.

2. Unexcused Absences: An absence which is not excused is unexcused. If a student's absence is unexcused the student may receive zeros for any class work missed during the absence, and may be required to make-up work and the time missed.

A student who engages in unexcused absences may be considered truant as per state law, Neb.Rev.Stat. § 79-201. Truancy is a violation of school rules. The consequence of such action may include suspension from classes and the student may be required to make up the time missed. Students who leave the school premises without permission during the school day will be considered truant.

Absence Procedure. A student will not be allowed to enter class after an absence until an admit slip, based upon a written parental excuse, is issued by the Principal's office. Work must be made up within the time allowed on the admit slip. Students missing classes for school activities must present a completed activities dismissal slip to the sponsor before being allowed to leave for the activity.

For excused absences, two school days will be allowed to make up the work for each day missed with a maximum of ten (10) days allowed to make up work. If requested, assignment sheets will be prepared for students who are ill. If parents and/or students request assignment sheets the school should be contacted by no later than 9:30 a.m.

For unexcused absences, the student will receive a failing mark for or in each class period missed.
Reporting and Responding to Truant Behavior. Any administrator, teacher, or member of the board of education who knows of any failure on the part of any child age 7 to 16 to attend school regularly without lawful reason, shall within three days report such violation to the Superintendent. The Superintendent shall immediately cause an investigation into any such report to be made. The Superintendent shall also investigate any case when of his or her personal knowledge, or by report or complaint from any resident of the district, the Superintendent believes that any child is unlawfully absent from school. The school shall render all services in its power to compel such child to attend some public, private, denominational, or parochial school, which the person having control of the child shall designate, in an attempt to remediate the child's truant behavior. Such services shall include, as appropriate, the services listed under the "Excessive Absenteeism" and "Reporting Habitual Truancy" policies.

Excessive Absenteeism. Students who accumulate five (5) unexcused absences in a quarter shall be deemed to have "excessive absences." Such absences shall be determined on a per day basis on a per class basis for secondary students. When a student has excessive absences, the following procedures shall be implemented:

1. One or more meetings shall be held between a school attendance officer, school social worker, or other person designated by the school administration and the parent/guardian and the student to report and attempt to solve the truancy problem. If the parent/guardian refuses to participate in such meeting, the principal shall place in the student's attendance records documentation of such refusal.
2. Educational counseling to determine whether curriculum changes, including but not limited to, enrolling the child in an alternative education program that meets the specific educational and behavioral needs of the child.
3. Educational evaluation, which may include a psychological evaluation, to assist in determining the specific condition, if any, contributing to the truancy problem, supplemented by specific efforts by the school to help remedy any condition diagnosed.
4. Investigation of the truancy problem by the school social worker, or if such school does not have a school social worker, another person designated by the administration to identify conditions which may be contributing to the truancy problem. If services for the child and his or her family are determined to be needed, the person performing the investigation shall meet with the parent/guardian and the child to discuss any referral to appropriate community agencies for economic services, family or individual counseling, or other services required to remedy the conditions that are contributing to the truancy problem.

Reporting Habitual Truancy. Students who accumulate twenty (20) unexcused absences per year shall be deemed to be habitually truant. If the student continues to be or becomes habitually truant, the principal shall serve a written notice to the person violating Neb.Rev.Stat. § 79-201, (i.e., the person who has legal or active charge or control of the student) warning him or her to comply with the provisions of that statute. If within one week after the time such notice is given such person is still violating the school attendance laws or policies, the principal shall file a report with the county attorney of the county in which such person resides.

Advisory Procedures.

A. Advisory letters will be sent to parents or guardians when their child has accrued four (4) and seven (7) absences per class during the semester.
B. After seven (7) absences, the parent/guardian/student will be notified of potential loss of credits by the principal.

Student’s Rights to Due Process.
The following procedure will be followed to ensure due process.

A. THE FACULTY COMMITTEE ON ABSENTEEISM

1. Parents/Guardians/Students who wish to appeal the potential loss of credit must make this request within seven (7) days of notification. Requests for appeal must be made in writing on forms supplied by the principal.
2. The Faculty Committee on Absenteeism shall review all absences/tardies and exceptions to the limitation on absences. Chronic and/or extended illness and/or other unusual circumstances will be considered.
3. A determination will be made individually on each case.
4. The Faculty Committee on Absenteeism shall not exercise the right to take credits from a student.
5. The Faculty Committee on Absenteeism shall make its recommendation in writing to the principal.

B. THE PRINCIPAL, PARENT/GUARDIAN, AND STUDENT
1. The principal will render a decision within three (3) days after receiving the committee’s recommendation and notify the student/parent/guardian.
2. The request for a hearing may be filed by the student or the student’s parents/guardians and presented within seven (7) days following the notification of pending loss of credit.

C. THE SUPERINTENDENT
1. Upon rendering a decision, the principal will forward the decision to the superintendent. If the student is to be denied credit, the superintendent will either support the denial or grant an extension of absences. If the superintendent supports the principal’s decision, he/she will notify the student/parent/guardian. The affected party may then request a hearing before the board of education. This request must be made within seven (7) days after receiving notification.

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D. THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
1. The Board of Education shall serve as the appeal body and may grant or deny an extension of absences after hearing the case.
2. The administration and Board of Education reserve the right to ask for a medical opinion in cases of prolonged or chronic illness.

ATTENDANCE HEARINGS
All Attendance hearings will be scheduled for the last week of the semester.

Tardiness
Tardy to School: Students will be considered tardy to school if they are not seated in their assigned class or ready and attentive in their assigned area when the bell for their first class rings.

Tardy to Class: Students will be considered tardy to class if they are not in their classroom when the tardy bell rings, unless they have a pass from the teacher who detained them. Specific tardy guidelines once students are in the classroom doorway are at the discretion of the classroom teacher. Students have a sufficient time period between all class changes to make it to their next assigned class on time.

Leaving School
Students who must leave school for any reason during the school day must check out at the office before leaving. Students leaving school must be cleared in advance by a note or phone call from the students parent or legal guardian. Upon returning to school that same day, students are expected to check in at the office. Students who leave without permission will be considered truant.

Attendance is Required to Participate in Activities
Students must attend school all day the day of any scheduled school activity in order to participate in the activity. This includes sports contests, practice and dances. Failure to attend on that day will result in a student being withheld from participation in the activity. The principal retains the right to grant participation should exceptional circumstances prevail.

Make-up Work
Written make-up work may be assigned for each day missed regardless of the type of absence. If make-up work is not completed, students will receive no credit for the work required. The time each student is allowed will be determined by mutual agreement between the student and teacher. The student has the responsibility to contact teachers, initially, regarding make-up assignments. Assignment sheets will be sent only for extended absences such as chicken pox, hospitalization, or other prolonged illnesses. No assignment sheets will be sent out until after at least three (3) days of absence. If the parents or students have concerns prior to the three (3) days, they are encouraged to contact the teacher.

CHECK-OUT PROCEDURES
The procedure for checking out at the end of the school year is as follows:
1. Obtain a check-out form from first period instructor.
2. Return all school books, library books, school-owned material, and pay all bills and fines.
3. Teachers, coaches, sponsors, counselor and librarian must sign each check-out form for clearance.
4. Check-out forms will be checked and collected before year-end dismissal.

WITHDRAWAL
The procedure for withdrawal is as follows:
1. Authorization for withdrawal must be made in writing or in person by the parent or guardian.
2. Obtain appropriate forms from the principal’s office.
3. Return all books, school owned equipment and pay all fines and bills.
4. Take completed forms to the principal’s office for final clearance.

SCHOLASTIC ACHIEVEMENT

Grading System
Centennial will use the letter grading system as follows:

A 93 - 100 Excellent
B 86 - 92 Above Average
C 78 - 85 Average
D 70 - 77 Below Average
F Below 70 Failure
I Incomplete, failure unless removed

Each teacher should define for students the grading procedures to be used in their classes.

High School Yearly Course Requirements
High School students in all grade levels are required to register in the following courses:

Math, Social Studies, Science, Health and Physical Education, Keyboarding and Language-Arts Core.



High school students will maintain grade classification by acquiring the total number of hours earned:

9th Grade 50 hours
10th Grade 100 hours
11th Grade 150 hours
12th Grade 215 hours

Students also have the option of taking band or a vocal music.

Graduation Requirements
The Centennial Board of Education believes the many benefits of a high school education cannot be fully realized in less than four years. Further, it views the entire senior year as an important period during which the student should be able to enjoy many experiences providing academic growth and enrichment, exploration of new areas and social growth and maturity.
All students (grades 9-12) are required to register for and complete a minimum of 60 hours of credit each year. Exception: (Students enrolled in vocal music may register for 56 hours of credit.) All seniors are required to successfully complete a minimum of 45 hours of credit in their fourth year of high school.

Required Credit Hours Credits
ENGLISH - 40 CREDIT HOURS
Grade 9 English 9 I/II 10
Grade 10 English 10 I/II 10
Grade 11-12 English 11 I/II 10
Grade 12 English 12 I/II or AP English I/II 10

MATHEMATICS - 20 CREDIT HOURS
Grade 9 Algebra A, Algebra I, Algebra II 10
Grade 10 Algebra B, Algebra I, Algebra II , Geometry, Applied Math 10
Grade 11-12 Choices: Algebra II, Geometry, Applied Math 10
Trig/Pre-Calculus, College Prep Math, AP Calculus

SCIENCE - 20 CREDIT HOURS
Grade 9 Physical Science 10
Grade 10 General Biology 10
Grade 11 Chemistry I/II 10
Grade 12 Physics, Anatomy, Microbiology, Chemistry, AP Biology 10

SOCIAL STUDIES - 30 CREDIT HOURS
Grade 9 World History 10
Grade 10 American History 10
Grade 11 Government/Economics 10

PHYSICAL EDUCATION - 10 CREDIT HOURS
Grade 9 P.E/Health 10

KEYBOARDING - 10 CREDIT HOURS
Grade 9 10
TOTAL REQUIRED CREDIT HOURS - 130
TOTAL ELECTIVE CREDIT HOURS - 100
TOTAL CREDIT HOURS FOR GRADUATION - 230
> All students (grades 9-12) are required to register for and complete a minimum of 60 hours of credit each year. Vocal music students may register for 56 hours of credit.
> All seniors are required to successfully complete a minimum of 45 hours of credit in their fourth year of high school.
ALL OF THE ABOVE CLASSES MERIT FIVE (5) CREDIT HOURS PER SEMESTER

DRIVER EDUCATION
Students successfully completing driver education at Centennial will receive three (3) credit hours. Driver education grades do not count toward student grade point averages.

ELIGIBILITY POLICY
The importance of the total educational program for students is recognized. While students are encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities, their primary focus should be in the academic program.
To maintain academic eligibility to participate competitively in all forms of athletic, music, speech and dramatics contests, students must successfully complete 20 credit hours of academic work for the previous semester. Failure to do so would make them ineligible for the following semester.
Age Limitation: No student shall be eligible for interschool competition who has attained the age of nineteen years except as follows: A student who becomes nineteen years of age on or after August 1 shall be eligible on the basis of age until the end of the current school year.
A student in grade seven or eight who reaches age 15 prior to August 1 may be eligible to tryout for and participate on a senior high school team.
Grades will be checked at mid-quarter and at the end of each quarter. Students not achieving the above-stated standard will be informed of the deficiency. Encouragement and assistance will be offered in an attempt to remediate any academic deficiencies.
Teachers may not impose more stringent academically eligibility requirements.

POSITIVE IMPACT BY STUDENTS
“Modeling Good Character” – Being a True Bronco
Goals:
· To recognize students modeling good character
· To reward students for being or doing positive things for Centennial
· To inspire students to make positive choices
Recognition Procedures:
· Teachers will recognize students throughout each quarter by filling out the recognition form provided by Mr. Ruhl. The teacher can email or drop the form on Mr. Ruhl’s desk. The form must include: Teacher’s name, Student’s name, date of recognition, and an explanation containing one or more of the 6 pillars of character that the student modeled. A student can be nominated more than once.
· All forms will travel through Mr. Ruhl’s office and be placed in a drawing box to be used at the end of each quarter. Mr. Ruhl has the right to deny a recognition form based upon a student’s behavior that is in violation of the Student Handbook.
· Mr. Ruhl will receive the forms and then complete one or more of the following:
o The Student will be called into Mr. Ruhl’s office and will be recognized for the positive influence on Centennial
o A phone call to the parent/guardian about their student.
o A letter home recognizing the student’s positive behavior
o A postcard sent home recognizing the Positive Impact student
· End of the Quarter Drawings: Students names will be drawn out at the end of each quarter. Prizes will be given for names drawn. There will be specific items for 7-8 grades and 9-12 grades. Drawings will take place at a student assembly , during the lunch break, or as determined by the Principal.
Drawings will be run in one of the following ways:
1. Student assembly: drawing in front of the whole student body.
2. Invitation to a Positive Impact meeting.
3. Classroom visitation.
4. During lunch.
5. During Bronco Period
6. A student will be allowed to win only once in each quarter.
Prizes: - Student can only win one (1) time per quarter.
- Provided based on funding
Funding: All prizes come from fundraised money.

CLASS COMPETITION
Centennial High School classes will be involved in some friendly competition throughout the 2005-06 and 2006-07 school years. Grades 9-12 will be judged on the following:
1.Highest quarterly grade point average
2.Quarterly attendance
3.Quarterly tardies
4.Semester citizenship
5.Parent/guardian attendance at parent/teacher conference
6.Bronco Week Activities
7.Other activities deemed necessary by Principal.
Scoring
1st place . . . 20 points
2nd place . . . 15 points
3rd place . . . 10 points
4th place . . . 5 points
As a reward for winning the class competition, the winning class will be excused from school for one day and permitted to display their class banner in the gym the following school year.

SCHOLASTIC SUPPER
The ten students in each high school class with the highest grade point averages are recognized at the Scholastic Supper during the Spring of each school year. Also recognized are the five students from the sophomore, junior, and senior classes with the most improved grade point averages. This is determined by comparing the grade point average of the first semester of the previous year to the grade point average of the first semester of the current school year.

COMMENCEMENT
No student shall receive a diploma for graduation unless he/she has previously met the requirements for graduation prior to the graduation ceremony. Students who have not met the requirements for graduation at the time of commencement may not participate in the ceremony unless the principal rules otherwise.
As seniors near graduation, all are reminded that participation in the Commencement Exercise is dependent upon successfully meeting all academic and non-academic requirements in a timely manner. Centennial does not award certificates of attendance to non-graduates. School officials will not accept lame excuses, i.e. “I sent my senior announcements to my family and friends”, for granting participation in this exercise. It is the student’s responsibility to check on grade status and related issues prior to sending out announcements.
Promotion, Retention

Students in grades 7 & 8 experiencing academic problems may be retained after consultation with the parties involved. If possible, this will include the student, parents/guardians, teachers, guidance counselor and principal. Areas given consideration will be grades, test scores and maturity. Parents cooperation is desired but if a unanimous decision cannot be reached the final decision will be made by the secondary principal.

Students in grades 10-11-12 will maintain grade classification by the total number of hours earned; 50 hours for Sophomores, 100 hours for Juniors and 150 hours for Seniors. A student must earn the necessary hours for graduation set by the Centennial Public School Board of Education. Requirements are 120 hours of required subjects and 95 hours of elective subjects for a total of 215 hours.
Progress Reports

Various supplemental reports may be sent to parents throughout the school year concerning student’s performance. These reports may describe student work of an exceptional nature or work, which needs improving. These reports will be sent as the teacher determines.

Report Cards
Report cards are issued at the end of each quarter, or nine-week sessions. Letter grades are used to designate a student’s progress. Incompletes shall be designated by an "I".

Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-teacher conferences will be held this year during the 1st quarter and 3rd quarter. Refer to the school calendar for the schedule. Conferences with teachers, at any other time, are possible by calling the school office and making arrangements with one or more teachers as needed.

Honor Roll
The purpose of the honor roll is to recognize those students who demonstrate academic excellence. Honor rolls will be determined for 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th quarters. Students will be recognized accordingly:
SCHOLARSHIP AND HONOR ROLL AWARDS
Students maintaining a 3.5 or a 3.0 average over a defined period of three (3) consecutive semesters during grades 10-12 of their high school career shall be awarded medals for scholarship at Honors’ Night. After students have accumulated their first three (3) consecutive semesters and have won their first award, the first two (2) semesters of these three (3) will be dropped from the records and the students must again accumulate another three (3) consecutive semester 3.5 or 3.0 average before winning a second award. This procedure will continue throughout their high school career and if they maintained the stated average all four (4) years of high school, they would be able to win a total of three (3) awards. Those students whose averages fall within the stated categories must be carrying 25 hours per semester. Assistantships are not considered a class.
A gold medal shall be awarded to those students who maintain a 3.5 or above average, and the medal shall read Honor Student/Scholarship.
A silver medal shall be awarded to those students who maintain a 3.0 to 3.5 average, and the medal shall read Honorable Mention/Scholarship.
Seventh, Eighth, and Ninth grade students who maintain a three (3) consecutive quarter average of 3.5 or 3.0 will be awarded certificates at Honors’ Night. For those students with a 3.5 average or above, the certificates shall read Honor Student. For those students with a 3.0 to 3.5 average, the certificates shall read Honorable Mention.
The point system used to figure the averages will be as follows:
A = 4 points B= 3 points C= 2 points
Any student receiving a D or F will not be considered for Scholarship or Honor Roll awards.
An example of how this might work: A student carrying 25 hours and earning three (3) A’s, one (1) B, and one (1) C would have a total of 17 points. This 17 divided by the five (5) classes he or she is carrying would give him or her a 3.4 average.
Honor roll and Honorable Mention for quarter and semester honor rolls will be awarded on the same grade point averages as the scholarship awards.
ACADEMIC FITNESS AWARDS
The Academic Fitness Awards program is designed to recognize those students at the exit grades of 8 and 12 in our school who have maintained a B (3.3) or above grade average and have scored at or above the 80th percentile on a standardized test during their junior high and high school careers.

National Honor Society
The National Honor Society chapter of Centennial Public School is a duly chartered and affiliated chapter of this prestigious national organization.
SELECTION GUIDELINES:
The faculty council will use the following guidelines in their consideration of candidates for membership in the National Honor Society:
1. Leadership: The student who exercises leadership:
· Is resourceful in applying principles and making suggestions
· Demonstrates initiative in promoting school activities
· Exercises influence on peers in upholding school ideals
· Contributes ideas that improve the civic life of the school
· Is able to delegate responsibilities
· Exemplifies positive attitudes
· Inspires positive behavior in others
· Demonstrates academic initiative
· Successfully holds school offices or positions of responsibility, conducts business effectively and efficiently, and without prodding, demonstrates reliability and dependability
· Is a forerunner in the classroom, at work, and in school or community activities
· Is thoroughly dependable in any responsibility accepted
2. Service-- The student who serves:
· Is willing to uphold scholarship and maintain a loyal school attitude
· Participates in some outside activity: Scouts, church groups, volunteer services for the aged, poor, disadvantaged; family duties
· Volunteers dependable and well-organized assistance, is gladly available, and is willing to sacrifice to offer assistance
· Works well with others and is willing to take on difficult or inconspicuous responsibilities
· Cheerfully and enthusiastically renders any requested service to the school
· Is willing to represent the class or school in inter-class and interscholastic competition
· Does committee work efficiently and without complaint
· Show courtesy by assisting visitors, teachers, and students
3. Character—The student of character:
· Takes criticism willingly and accepts recommendations graciously
· Consistently exemplifies desirable qualities of behavior (cheerfulness, friendliness, poise, stability)
· Upholds principles of morality and ethics
· Cooperates by complying with school regulations concerning property, programs, office, halls, etc.
· Has powers of concentration and sustained attention as shown by perseverance and application to studies
· Manifests truthfulness in acknowledging obedience to rules, avoiding cheating in written work, and showing unwillingness to profit by the mistakes of others
· Actively helps rid the school of bad influences or environment
Removal from National Honor Society
A student may be removed from the NHS by action of the Principal upon a determination by the Principal that the student:

1. Prior Conduct. Engaged in conduct prior to induction which was not known at the time of induction and which, if known, would have caused denial of induction;

2 Post-Induction Conduct. Engaged in conduct after induction which is grounds for a student to be long-term suspended or expelled from school under the student code of conduct contained in this handbook; which is grounds for suspension or removal from any extracurricular activity of the school, or which would cause denial of induction if such conduct had taken place prior to the time of induction.

The student may appeal the Principal’s decision to the Superintendent by giving written notice of appeal to the Superintendent within ten calendar days of receipt of the Principal’s removal decision. The appeal procedures shall be established in the discretion of the Superintendent such as to allow a fair opportunity for the student’s views and information to be considered. The decision of the Superintendent on the appeal shall be final.
Special Education Identification And Placement Procedures:

What Does Special Education Mean?
Special education means educational experiences, curriculum and services, including transportation, through the use of staff, facilities, equipment and classrooms which have been adapted to provide special instruction for students with disabilities. In addition, special education provides the support services necessary for evaluation, placement and instruction for students with disabilities. These services are free to parents, unless they elect to place their child in a program other than one approved by the school district.

How are Students With Disabilities Identified?
The first step is for parents to provide written permission to have their child evaluated. The request for permission will include a description of the action to be taken and a description of each evaluation procedure. Written statements showing the results of the evaluation and the reasons for placement in a special education program must be kept on file. Within 30 days after a
student has been verified as having a disability, a conference will be held with parents. Advance notice will be given. At the conference, an Individual Education Program (IEP) will be developed.

Students Who May Benefit
A student verified as having autism, behavior disorder, hearing impairment, mental handicap, orthopedic impairment, other health impairment, specific learning disability, speech language impairment, traumatic brain injury, or visual handicap may be placed in regular education with support services or may benefit from a special education classroom or service.

Independent Evaluation
If a parent disagrees with an evaluation completed by the school district, the parent has a right to request an independent educational evaluation at public expense. Parents should direct inquiries to school officials to determine if the school district will arrange for further evaluation at public expense. If school district officials feel the original evaluation was appropriate and the parents disagree, a due process hearing may be initiated. If it is determined that the original evaluation was appropriate, parents still have the right to an independent educational evaluation at their own expense.

Reevaluation
Students identified for special education will be reevaluated at least every three years by the IEP team. The IEP team will review existing evaluation data on the student and will identify what additional data, if any, are needed. The school district shall obtain parental consent prior to conducting any reevaluation of a student with a disability.

Individual Education Program (IEP)
Each student with a disability must have a written IEP prepared by the staff in cooperation with parents specifying programs and services which will be provided by the schools. If necessary, the district will arrange for interpreters or other assistants to help parents in preparing and understanding the IEP. Once in place, the program is reviewed on a regular basis with the parent.
An IEP is developed in a conference setting. Parents will be notified of the persons who will be in attendance. The IEP conference shall include at least the following:
1. A representative of the school district;
2. An individual who can interpret the instructional implications of evaluation results;
3. One or both parents;
4. The child (when appropriate);
5. At least one regular education teacher if the child is, or may be participating in the regular education environment;
6. At least one special education teacher;
7. A representative of the nonpublic school if the child is attending a nonpublic school;
8. A representative of a service agency if the child is receiving services from an approved service agency; and
9. Other individuals, at the discretion of the parent or school district.
It is permissible for parents to bring other persons to the IEP meeting, but it is a good idea to inform the school before the scheduled meeting. The school district will provide parents with a copy of the IEP.
Special Education Placement
The student’s placement in a special education program is dependent on the student’s educational needs as outlined in the Individual Education Program (IEP). The school district must assure that students with disabilities are educated with students who do not have disabilities, to the maximum extent possible. Students are entitled to have supplementary aids and services to help them in a regular educational setting. Students with disabilities may be placed in special classes, separate schools or other situations outside the regular educational environment when the nature of the child’s needs require specialized educational techniques which are not available in current settings. Determination of a student’s educational placement will be made by a team of persons who knows the student and who understands the tests and procedures that assess the student’s learning abilities. Team members know the available programs and services which might help the student. Parents are asked for written consent to determine whether or not they approve the educational placement recommended for their child. If the parent does not speak English or is hearing impaired, an interpreter may be requested. Written notice shall be given to parents a reasonable time before the school district: 1. Proposes to initiate or change the identification, evaluation, verification or educational placement of a child or the provision of a free appropriate public education; or 2. Refuses to initiate or change the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of the child or the provision of a free appropriate public education to the child.

Alternative Programs
Parents have a right to know about available private and public programs, other than those offered by the schools. The school district staff will provide information about those programs on request. If parents place the student in one of those programs, however, the school district is not required to pay for the student’s education.

Transportation of Students Receiving Special Education
The district special education staff will make arrangements for transportation for eligible students to the extent such is required by the student’s IEP. Students assigned to special education programs requiring attendance at schools outside their regular attendance area will be transported. Special conditions may warrant that special education students receive transportation to their assigned schools. If parents are dissatisfied with a transportation decision, they may contact the Superintendent for a review.

Access to Student Records
Parents have the right to inspect and review any education records relating to their child which are collected, maintained or used by the school district in providing educational services.

Nonpublic School Students
Students in state-approved nonpublic schools may participate in special education programs in the same manner as public school students.
Parental Review of Programs
Parents who want to review their child’s placement for any reason should request an IEP team meeting. If parents are not satisfied with the results of the conference, they may appeal to the Nebraska Department of Education for a formal hearing to be conducted by a state hearing officer. Parents dissatisfied by the findings and decisions made in a state level hearing have the right to bring civil action.

Plans and Budget
With the exception of personally identifiable student records, district special education plans and budgets are available for public inspection.

This is a summary of the Centennial Public School district plan for special education students. Anyone interested in obtaining a copy of the complete district policy or a copy of the Nebraska Department of Education Rule 51 (complaint procedures) or Rule 55 (appeal procedures) may contact the Superintendent at the Centennial Public School Superintendent’s Office.

Guidance Services:
The Centennial Public School employs a guidance counselor for the purpose of assisting with the District’s testing program and to assist with scheduling and for students to discuss problems and resolve conflicts. If you wish to see a counselor, stop by a counselor’s office and make arrangements for an appointment.

Health Services:
SCHOOL NURSE
Centennial Public School employs a full-time school nurse. All students who become ill during the school day must visit the nurse’s office. If she determines the illness warrants going home, she will initiate such proceedings.
Student Illnesses
School health personnel will notify parents when a student needs to be sent home from school due to illness. Conditions requiring a student be sent home include: Temperature greater than 100°F., vomiting, diarrhea, unexplained rashes, live head lice, or on determination by the school nurse that the child’s condition prevents meaningful participation in the educational program, presents a health risk to the child or others, or that medical consultation is warranted unless the condition resolves. Please include emergency daytime phone numbers on your child’s enrollment card so that you can be reached if your child becomes ill or injured while at school. Please also inform your school health office staff of health related information you feel is important for your student’s success in the classroom and/or safety at school.

Guidelines for Administering Medication
Whenever possible your child should be provided medications by you outside of school hours. In the event it is necessary that the child take or have medication available at school, the parents/guardians must provide a signed written consent for the child to be given medication at school. A consent form is available at the school health office.

Medications must be provided to the school by the parent/guardian in the pharmacy-labeled or manufacturer-labeled bottle. Repackaged medications will not be accepted. All medications also require a physician’s authorization to be given at school. The school nurse may limit medications to those set forth in the Physician’s Desk Reference (PDR). Please limit the amount of medication provided to the school to a two-week supply.

School Health Screening
Children in Preschool and Kindergarten through third grade, as well as children in sixth and ninth grade are screened for vision, hearing, dental defects, height and weight. The screening program also incorporates scoliosis and blood pressure at the sixth and ninth grades. Students entering the Student Assistance Process at any grade level, and those about whom health concerns are identified to the school nurse, may also be screened. Parents are notified of any health concerns as they are identified. Parents who do not wish their child to participate in the school screening program must communicate this in writing to the school health office where their child attends at the start of the school year. Because Nebraska statutes require school-age screening, parents who remove their child from the screening program must submit findings from an alternate medical provider to the school by December 1.

Physical Examination
Evidence of a physical examination by a qualified physician is required within six months prior to the entrance of the child into any Early Childhood Special Education classes, kindergarten and the seventh grade, or in the case of transfer from out of state to any other grade. A parent or guardian who objects may submit a written statement of refusal for his or her child. The statement will be kept in the student’s file. Waiver forms are available in the school health office.

Immunizations

Immunizations against the following diseases are required for every child:
• measles • mumps • rubella
• poliomyelitis • diptheria • pertussis • tetanus
All students in all grades will be required to present evidence of:
• 3 doses of DTP, DTaP, DT, or Td vaccine
• 3 doses of Polio vaccine
• 2 doses of MMR vaccine given on or after 12 months of age and separated by one month or more.
In addition to these requirements, the following groups also are required to present evidence of three doses of Hepatitis B vaccine and a DTP or equivalent given on or after the fourth birthday:
• kindergarten or beginning grade
• seventh grade
• all out-of-state transfer students to any grade
Any 2-5 year-olds enrolled in a school-based program not licensed as a child care provider (i.e., Head Start and Early Childhood Special Education) will be required to present evidence of:
• 4 doses of DTaP, DTP, or DT vaccine
• 3 doses of Polio vaccine
• 1 dose of MMR vaccine given at or after 12 months of age
• 3 doses of Hepatitis B vaccine
• 3 doses of HiB vaccine or 1 dose of HiB vaccine given at or
after 15 months of age.

Students must show proof of immunization upon enrollment in Centennial Public School. Any student who does not comply with the immunization requirements will not be permitted to continue in school. Students with medical conditions or sincerely held religious beliefs which do not allow immunizations may complete a waiver statement which is available in school health offices.
Students with a signed waiver statement may be excluded from school in the event of a disease outbreak.

Birth Certificate Requirements
State law requires that a certified copy of a student’s birth certificate be used when enrolling a new student in school. If your child is registering with Centennial Public School for the first time, you may obtain this document from the Bureau of Vital Statistics in the state in which your child was born. Assistance in obtaining birth certificates may be obtained from Health Records Management, P.O. Box 95065, Lincoln, NE 68509-5065. There is a fee per certificate.

Please note: The document parents receive from the hospital looks like a birth certificate, but it is not a certified copy. A certified copy has the raised seal of the state of Nebraska on it and is signed by the director of vital statistics.

If a birth certificate is unavailable, other reliable proof of a student's identity may be used. These documents could include naturalization or immigration documents showing date of birth or official hospital birth records, a passport, or a translation of a birth certificate from another country. The documents must be accompanied by an affidavit explaining the inability to produce a copy of the birth certificate.

Guidelines for Head Lice
The following guidelines are in place to: better control a nuisance condition; reduce absenteeism due to head lice; and involve parents as partners with the school in control efforts:

1. Children will be sent home from school for live head lice. In the event the child has TWO cases of live lice in a semester, he or she will be sent home until free of both live lice and nits (eggs).
2. Health office staff will provide written treatment information and instructions, including how to check and identify head lice*.
3. A child who is sent home from school for head lice should miss no more than two school days.
4. A child who has been sent from school due to head lice must come to the health office for inspection before returning to class.
5. A child who returns to class with nits (eggs) will be checked again in 7-10 days.
6. Families are encouraged to report head lice to the school health office.
7. Individual buildings will perform classroom-wide or school-wide head checks as needed in order to control the condition at school.
*Nit removal will be emphasized for effective management of the condition. For more information call the nurse at your child’s school.

Drugs, Alcohol and Tobacco

Drug-Free Schools
The District implements regulations and practices which will ensure compliance with the Federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act and all regulations and rules promulgated pursuant thereto. The District’s safe and drug-free schools program is established in accordance with principles of effectiveness as required by law to respond to such harmful effects.

Education and Prevention:
This District promotes comprehensive, age appropriate, developmentally based drug and alcohol education and prevention programs, which will include in the curriculum the teaching of both proper and incorrect use of drugs and alcohol for all students in all grades of this School District. Further, this District will have proper in-service orientation and training for all employed staff.

Drug and Alcohol Use and Prevention.
By this handbook, each student of the District is hereby provided a copy of the standards of conduct for student behavior in the District which prohibit the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol on school premises or as a part of any of the school's activities.

Drug and Alcohol Education and Prevention Program of the District Pursuant to The Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Laws and Regulations .
All students are provided age appropriate, developmentally based drug and alcohol education and prevention program for all students of the schools. It shall be the policy of the District to require instruction at such grade level concerning the adverse effects resulting from the use of illicit drugs and alcohol. Such instruction shall be designed by affected classroom teachers or as otherwise directed by the Board to be appropriate to the age of the student exposed to such instruction. One of the primary objectives shall be the prevention of illicit drug and alcohol use by students. It shall further be the policy of the District to encourage the use of outside resource personnel such as law enforcement officers, medical personnel, and experts on the subject of drug and alcohol abuse, so that its economic, social, educational, and physiological consequences may be made known to the students of the District.

It shall further be the policy of the District, through the instruction earlier herein referred to, as well as by information and consistent enforcement of the Board's policy pertaining to student conduct as it relates to the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol, that drug and alcohol abuse is wrong and is harmful both to the student and the District, and its educational programs.
Drug and Alcohol Counseling, Rehabilitation and Re-entry Programs.

All students shall be provided information concerning available drug and alcohol counseling, rehabilitation, and re-entry programs within sixty miles of the administrative offices of the District or, where no such services are found, within the State of Nebraska. Information concerning such resources shall be presented to all of the students of the District upon request by the Guidance Counselor.

In the event of disciplinary proceedings against any student for any District policy pertaining to the prohibition against the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol, appropriate school personnel shall confer with any such student and his or her parents or guardian concerning available drug and alcohol counseling, rehabilitation, and re-entry programs that appropriate school personnel shall consider to be of benefit to any such student and his or her parent or parents or guardian.

Standards of Student Conduct Pertaining to the Unlawful Possession, Use, or Distribution of Illicit Drugs or Alcohol on School Premises or as a Part of Any of the School's Activities.
(In addition to standards of student conduct elsewhere adopted by board policy or administrative regulation to absolutely prohibit the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol on school premises or as a part of any of the school's activities.) This shall include such unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by any student of the District during regular school hours or after school hours at school sponsored activities on school premises, at school sponsored activities off school premises.

Conduct prohibited at places and activities as hereinabove described shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Possession of any controlled substance, possession of which is prohibited by law.
2. Possession of any prescription drug in an unlawful fashion.
3. Possession of alcohol on school premises or as a part of any of the school's activities.
4. Use of any illicit drug.
5. Distribution of any illicit drug.
6. Use of any drug in an unlawful fashion.
7. Distribution of any drug or controlled substance when such distribution is unlawful.
8. The possession, use, or distribution of alcohol.

It shall further be the policy of the district that violation of any of the above prohibited acts will result in disciplinary sanction being taken within the bounds of applicable law, up to and including short term suspension, long term suspension, expulsion, and referral to appropriate authorities for criminal prosecution.

Drugs and Alcohol Prohibited - Standards of Conduct for Students and Employed Staff:
The manufacture, possession, selling, dispensing, use or being under the influence of alcohol or any alcoholic beverage or alcoholic liquor on school grounds, or during an educational function, or event off school grounds, or off school grounds if there is a substantial interference with school purposes, is prohibited.

The possession, selling, dispensing, use or being under the influence of any controlled substance or drug, including but not limited to marijuana, any narcotic drug, any hallucinogen, any stimulant, or any depressant on school grounds, or during the educational function or event off school grounds, or off school grounds if there is a substantial interference with school purposes, is prohibited.

The possession, selling, dispensing, use or being under the influence of any abusable glue or aerosol paint or any other chemical substance for inhalation, including but not limited to lighter fluid, whiteout, and reproduction fluid, when such activity constitutes a substantial interference with school purposes on school grounds or during and educational function, or event off school grounds, is prohibited.

The possession, selling, dispensing or use of any look-alike drug or look-alike controlled substance when such activity constitutes a substantial interference with school purposes on school grounds or during an educational function, or event off school grounds, is prohibited.

Any prescription or non-prescription drug, medicine, vitamin or other chemical may not be taken unless authorized as stated in the next section on AUTHORIZED USE.
Authorized Use:
Any student whose parent or guardian requests that he or she be given any prescription or non-prescription medicine, drug, or vitamin shall provide signed permission by parent or physician.

Disciplinary Sanctions:
1. Violation of this policy may result in suspension or expulsion. Prohibited substances will be confiscated and could be turned over to law enforcement authorities. The student may be referred for counseling or treatment. Parents or legal guardian will be notified.

2. If the student is observed to be violating this policy, the student will be escorted to the Principal/Superintendent's office immediately, or if not feasible, the Principal/ Superintendent will be notified. The student's parents or legal guardian will be requested to pick up the student. If it appears there is imminent danger to other students, school personnel, or students involved, the Principal/Superintendent, or such other personnel as authorized by the Principal/Superintendent, may have the student removed by authorized medical or law enforcement personnel.

3. Parents and students shall be given a copy of the standards of conduct and disciplinary sanctions required and shall be notified that compliance with the standards of conduct is mandatory.

Intervention:
The Centennial Public School District does not have the authority or responsibility to make medical or health determinations regarding chemical dependency. However, when observed behavior indicates that a problem exists which may affect the student's ability to learn or function in the educational climate or activity, the school then has the right and responsibility to refer the student for a formal chemical dependency diagnosis based on behavior observed by school staff. The school will issue a statement to all students and employed staff that the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful. The school shall make available to students and employed staff information about any drug and alcohol counseling, and rehabilitation and re-entry programs, which are available to students.

Administration:
The administration is authorized to adopt such administrative rules, regulations or practices necessary to properly implement this policy. Such regulations, rules or practices may vary the procedures set forth herein to the extent necessary to fit the circumstances of an individual situation. Such rules, regulations and practices may include administrative forms, such as checklists to be used by staff to record observed behavior and to determine the proper plan of action.

Safe and Drug-Free Schools-- Parental Notice
NOTICE TO PARENTS: Pursuant to the provisions of the No Child Left Behind Act, if upon receipt of information regarding the content of safe and drug free school programs and activities other than classroom instruction a parent objects to the participation of their child in such programs and activities, the parent may notify the School District of such objection in writing. Upon the receipt of such notice the student will be withdrawn from the program or activity to which parental objection has been made.

Student Rights, Conduct, Rules and Regulations

Student Conduct and Discipline Policies:
The common goal of students, parents, faculty and administration of Centennial Public School is to maintain a school atmosphere which is conducive to learning. In order to achieve this, Centennial Public School will continue to review and distribute a set of reasonable and fair rules and policies. VIOLATIONS OF THE CENTENNIAL PUBLIC SCHOOL’S RULES AND POLICIES WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTION.

Forms of School Discipline
Short-Term Suspension:
Students may be excluded by the Principal or his designee from school or any school function for a period of up to five school days (short-term suspension) on the following grounds:

1. Conduct constituting grounds for expulsion as hereinafter set forth; or,

2. Other violations of rules and standards of behavior adopted by the Centennial Public School Board of Education or the administrative or teaching staff of the school, which occur on or off school grounds, if such conduct interferes with school purposes or there is a nexus between such conduct and school.

The following process will apply to short-term suspensions:

1. The Principal or the Principal’s designee shall make a reasonable investigation of the facts and circumstances. In addition, such short-term suspension will be made only after a determination that the suspension is necessary to help any student, to further school purposes, or to prevent an interference with school purposes.
2. Prior to commencement of the short-term suspension, the student will be given oral or written notice of the charges against the student. The student will be advised of what the student is accused of having done, an explanation of the evidence the authorities have, and be afforded an opportunity to explain the student's version of the facts.
3. Within 24 hours or such additional time as is reasonably necessary following the suspension, the Principal or administrator will send a written statement to the student, and the student's parent or guardian, describing the student's conduct, misconduct or violation of the rule or standard and the reasons for the action taken. An opportunity will be given to the student, and the student's parent or guardian, to have a conference with the Principal or administrator ordering the short-term suspension before or at the time the student returns to school. The Principal or administrator shall determine who in addition to the parent or guardian is to attend the conference.
Long-Term Suspension:
Students may be excluded by the Principal or the Principal’s designee from school or any school function for a period of more than five school days but less then twenty school days on (long-term suspension) the conduct constituting grounds for expulsion as hereinafter set forth. The process for long-term suspension is hereinafter set forth.

Expulsion:
1. Meaning of Expulsion. Expulsion shall mean exclusion from attendance in all schools, grounds and activities of or within the system for a period not to exceed the remainder of the semester in which it took effect unless the misconduct occurred (a) within ten school days prior to the end of the first semester, in which case the expulsion shall remain in effect through the second semester, or (b) within ten school days prior to the end of the second semester, in which case the expulsion shall remain in effect for summer school and the first semester of the following school year, or (c) unless the expulsion is for conduct specified in these rules or in law as permitting or requiring a longer removal, in which case the expulsion shall remain in effect for the period specified therein. Such action may be modified or terminated by the school district at any time during the expulsion period.
2. Summer Review. Any expulsion that will remain in effect during the first semester of the following school year will be automatically scheduled for review before the beginning of the school year. The review will be conducted by the hearing officer who conducted the initial expulsion hearing, or a hearing officer appointed by the Superintendent in the event no hearing was previously held or the initial hearing officer is no longer available or willing to serve, after the hearing officer has given notice of the review to the student and the student's parent or guardian. This review shall be limited to newly discovered evidence or evidence of changes in the student's circumstances occurring since the original hearing. This review may lead to a recommendation by the hearing officer that the student be readmitted for the upcoming school year. If the school board or board of education or a committee of such board took the final action to expel the student, the student may be readmitted only by action of the board. Otherwise the student may be readmitted by action of the Superintendent.
3. Suspension of Enforcement of an Expulsion: Enforcement of an expulsion action may be suspended (i.e., "stayed") for a period of not more than one full semester in addition to the balance of the semester in which the expulsion takes effect, and as a condition of such suspended action, the student may be assigned to a school, class, or program and to such other consequences which the school district deems appropriate. In lieu of other authorized educational programs to which the student may be assigned, such school, class, or program may be offered as a community-centered classroom and may include experiences for the student as an observer or aide in governmental functions, as an on-the-job trainee, and as a participant in specialized tutorial experiences or individually prescribed educational and counseling programs. Such programs shall include an individualized learning program to enable the student to continue academic work for credit toward graduation. At the conclusion of the designated period: (1) if the student has satisfactorily participated in the school, class, or program to which such student has been assigned the student shall be reinstated and permitted to return to the school of former attendance or to attend other programs offered by the district, and action to expunge the record of the expulsion action may be taken at the discretion of the Superintendent or his or her designee, or (2) if the student's conduct has been unsatisfactory, the expulsion action shall be enforced. The determination of whether the students' participation and conduct has been satisfactory or not shall be made by Principal or the Principal’s designee.
4. Students Subject to Juvenile or Court Probation. Prior to the readmission to school of any student who is less than nineteen years of age and who is subject to the supervision of a juvenile probation officer or an adult probation officer pursuant to the order of the District Court, County Court, or Juvenile Court, who chooses to meet conditions of probation by attending school, and who has previously been expelled from school, the Principal or the Principal’s designee shall meet with the student's probation officer and assist in developing conditions of probation that will provide specific guidelines for behavior and consequences for misbehavior at school (including conduct on school grounds and conduct during an educational function or event off school grounds) as well as educational objectives that must be achieved. If the guidelines, consequences, and objectives provided by the Principal or the Principal’s designee are agreed to by the probation officer and the student, and the court permits the student to return to school under the agreed to conditions, the student may be permitted to return to school. The student may with proper consent, upon such return, be evaluated by the school for possible disabilities and may be referred for evaluation for possible placement in a special education program. The student may be expelled or otherwise disciplined for subsequent conduct as provided in Board policy and state statute.

Other Forms of Student Discipline:
Administrative and teaching personnel may also take actions regarding student behavior, other than removal of students from school, which are reasonably necessary to aid the student, further school purposes, or prevent interference with the educational process. Such actions may include, but need not be limited to, counseling of students, parent conferences, rearrangement of schedules, requirements that a student remain in school after regular hours to do additional work, restriction of extracurricular activity, or requirements that a student receive counseling, psychological evaluation, or psychiatric evaluation upon the written consent of a parent or guardian to such counseling or evaluation. The actions may also include in-school suspensions during the day. When in-school suspensions, after-school assignments, or other disciplinary measures are assigned, the student is responsible for complying with such disciplinary measures and a failure to serve such assigned discipline as directed will serve as grounds for further discipline, up to expulsion from school.

Student Conduct:

Students have an opportunity to learn by sharing some of the responsibility for creating a good learning environment. To help maintain a quality instructional environment for all students attending Centennial Public School, all students are expected to refrain from the following conduct.

Grounds for Short-Term Suspension, Long-Term Suspension, Expulsion or Mandatory Reassignment:
The failure to refrain from the following conduct shall constitute grounds for long-term suspension, expulsion, or mandatory reassignment, subject to the procedural provisions of the Student Discipline Act, Neb. Rev. Stat. § 79-254 through 79-296, when such activity occurs on school grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by a school being used for a school purpose or in a vehicle being driven for a school purpose by a school employee or by his or her designee, or at a school-sponsored activity or athletic event:

1. Use of violence, force, coercion, threat, intimidation, or similar conduct in a manner that constitutes a substantial interference with school purposes;
2. Willfully causing or attempting to cause substantial damage to property, stealing or attempting to steal property of substantial value, or repeated damage or theft involving property;
3. Causing or attempting to cause personal injury to a school employee, to a school volunteer, or to any student. Personal injury caused by accident, self-defense, or other action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect some other person shall not constitute a violation of this subdivision;
4. Threatening or intimidating any student for the purpose of or with the intent of obtaining money or anything of value from such student;
5. Knowingly possessing, handling, or transmitting any object or material that is ordinarily or generally considered a weapon;
6. Engaging in the possession, selling, dispensing, or use of a controlled substance or an imitation controlled substance, as defined in section 28-401, a substance represented to be a controlled substance, or alcoholic liquor as defined in section 53-103 or being under the influence of a controlled substance or alcoholic liquor (note: the term “under the influence” for school purposes has a less strict meaning than it does under criminal law; for school purposes, the term means any level of impairment and includes even the odor of alcohol on the breath or person of a student; also, it includes being impaired by reason of the abuse of any material used as a stimulant);
7. Public indecency;
8. Sexually assaulting or attempting to sexually assault any person. In addition, if a complaint has been filed by a prosecutor in a court of competent jurisdiction alleging that the student has sexually assaulted or attempted to sexually assault any person, including sexual assaults or attempted sexual assaults, the student is subject to suspension, expulsion, or mandatory reassignment regardless of where the conduct took place. For purposes of this subdivision, sexual assault shall mean sexual assault in the first degree and sexual assault in the second degree as defined in sections 28-319 and 28-320, as such sections now provide or may hereafter from time to time be amended;
9. Truancy or failure to attend assigned classes or assigned activities;
10. Tardiness to school, assigned classes or assigned activities;
11. The use of language, written or oral, or conduct, including gestures, which is profane or abusive to students or staff members. Profane or abusive language or conduct includes, but is not limited to, that which is commonly understood and intended to be derogatory toward a group or individual based upon race, gender, national origin, or religion;
12. Dressing in a manner which is dangerous to the student's health and safety, a danger to the health and safety of others, or which is disruptive, distractive or indecent to the extent that it interferes with the learning and educational process. (Further dress code information is provided in a later section).
13. Willfully violating the behavioral expectations for those students riding Centennial Public School buses.
14. Engaging in any other activity forbidden by the laws of the State of Nebraska which activity constitutes a danger to other students or interferes with school purposes; or
15. A repeated violation of any rules and standards validly established by the Board of Education or school officials if such violations constitute a substantial interference with school purposes.
16. In addition, a student who engages in the following conduct occurs on school grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by a school being used for a school purpose or in a vehicle being driven for a school purpose by a school employee or by his or her designee, or at a school-sponsored activity or athletic event shall be expelled for the remainder of the school year in which it took effect if the misconduct occurs during the first semester, and if the expulsion for such conduct takes place during the second semester, the expulsion shall remain in effect for the first semester of the following school year, with the condition that such action may be modified or terminated by the school district during the expulsion period on such terms as the administration may establish:
a. The knowing and intentional use of force in causing or attempting to cause personal injury to a school employee, school volunteer, or student, except if caused by accident, self-defense, or on the reasonable belief that the force used was necessary to protect some other person and the extent of force used was reasonably believed to be necessary, or,
b. The knowing and intentional possession, use, or transmission of a dangerous weapon other than a firearm.
17. In addition, a student who is determined to have brought a firearm to school, or to have possessed a firearm at school, shall be expelled from school for a period of not less than one year. The Superintendent may modify such one year expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis, provided that such modification is in writing. The term “to school” or “at school” means on school grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by a school being used for a school purpose or in a vehicle being driven for a school purpose by a school employee or by his or her designee, or at a school-sponsored activity or athletic event.

Bringing a firearm or other dangerous weapon to school for any reason is discouraged; however, a student will not be subject to disciplinary action if the item is brought or possessed under the following conditions:

a. Prior written permission to bring the firearm or other dangerous weapon to school is obtained from the student's teacher, building administrator and parent.
b. The purpose of having the firearm or other dangerous weapon in school is for a legitimate educational function.
c. A plan for its transportation into and from the school, its storage while in the school building and how it will be displayed must be developed with the prior written approval by the teacher and building administrator. Such plan shall require that such item will be in the possession of an adult staff member at all times except for such limited time as is necessary to fulfill the educational function.
d. The firearm or other dangerous weapon shall be in an inoperable condition while it is on school grounds.

Additional Student Conduct Rules:
The following additional student conduct rules are established. Failure to comply with such rules is grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion, as further specified in these rules. These rules govern student conduct on school grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by a school being used for a school purpose or in a vehicle being driven for a school purpose by a school employee or by his or her designee, or at a school-sponsored activity or athletic event.

Student Appearance Policy:
Students at Centennial Public School are expected to dress in a way that is appropriate for a school setting. Students should not dress in a manner that is dangerous to the health and safety of anyone or interferes with the learning environment or teaching process in our school. Following is a list of examples of attire that will not be considered appropriate, such list is not exclusive and other forms of attire deemed inappropriate by the administration may be deemed inappropriate for the school setting:

a. Clothing or jewelry that is gang related;
b. Clothing that shows an inappropriate amount of bare skin or underwear (midriffs, spaghetti straps, sagging pants);
c. Clothing or jewelry that advertises beer, alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs;
d. Clothing or jewelry that could be used as a weapon (chains, spiked apparel) or that would encourage “horse-play”;
e. Head wear including hats, caps, bandannas, and scarves;
f. Clothing or jewelry which exhibits nudity, makes sexual references or carries double meanings.

Consideration will be made for students who wear special clothing as required by religious beliefs, disability, or to convey a particularized message protected by law. The final decision regarding attire and grooming will be made by the Principal or Superintendent. In the event a student is uncertain as to whether a particular item or method of grooming is consistent with the school’s guidelines, the student should contact the Principal for approval, and may also review such additional posting of prohibited items or grooming which may be available in the Principal’s office.

Coaches, sponsors or teachers may have additional requirements for students who are in special lab classes, students who are participants in performing groups or students who are representing the school as part of an extracurricular activity program.

On a first offense of the dress code, the student may call home for proper apparel, change it, turn it inside out, cover it, or spend the remainder of the day assigned to in-school suspension. Students will not be allowed to leave campus to change clothes. Continual violations of the dress code will result in disciplinary actions under the Student Code of Conduct above. Further, in the event the dress code violation is determined to also violate other student conduct rules (e.g., public indecency, insubordination, expression of profanity, and the like), a first offense of the dress code may result in discipline, up to expulsion.

AUTOMOBILE USE AND DRIVING
Student drivers must know and obey the following rules:
1. Written permission from the principal or his designee is required to drive from school grounds during school hours.
2. Speeding or careless driving on the school grounds and on the streets bordering the school is prohibited.
3. Sitting in cars during the school day is not allowed (this includes the noon lunch period). If students wish to go to their car for any reason during the day, they must obtain permission from the principal or his designee.
4. Students must leave their cars after arrival at the school.
5. Students must obtain written permission to enter the student parking lot during the school day.
6. Parallel parking will not be permitted in the student parking lot.
7. The driveway must be kept clear in the parking lot. Cars will not be permitted to park south of the dividing logs.
8. Students are assigned parking in the designated area north of the building and east of the football field. The closest row to the football field will be assigned to seniors, the next closest row to juniors, the next closest row to sophomores, and the next closest row to freshmen.
9. Students driving vehicles to school will park in the north parking lot. All parking stalls east of the school are reserved for school employees and visitors.
10. When school is dismissed, students are urged to drive with caution. Please remember that elementary students are walking home at this time.
11. Students violating safe driving practices may be suspended and may be prohibited from driving their vehicles to school.
12. For safety reasons, students will be allowed to drive only bicycles and properly licensed motor vehicles to and from school
13. For safety reasons, students will be required to ride inside cars and pick-up cabs while these vehicles are driven on school grounds.
14. Student vehicles parked inappropriately will be dealt with in the following manner:
1st offense–a warning ticket will be issued
2nd offense–a warning will be issued and parking will be assigned at the discretion of the administration for the remainder of the quarter/semester
3rd and additional offenses--students will not be allowed to park on the school grounds for the remainder of the school year

Any exception to the above rules must have written permission from parents and the principal. Authority for the Board of Education to exercise control in student cars driven to school originates with the prerogative in the law termed “in loco parentis”.
Please remember that children will be walking home after school and their safety is a primary concern.

CHEATING
Should a student be guilty of cheating, the teacher shall collect the paper, mark a zero for the work, and notify the parent and office immediately as to the action taken. The second offense will bring an automatic in-school suspension.

DANCES/PARTIES RULES
Standards for the administration of school dances and parties:
1. All activities are to be held within the school premises (if facilities are available). These activities will be on either Friday or Saturday night and must terminate no later than midnight, unless otherwise approved by administration.
2. Dances with street shoes are NOT permitted in the new high school gym.
3. The use, possession, or distribution of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs will not be permitted at any school function. Any person who has been drinking shall be denied admission to the party or will be detained until parents or guardians are notified and arrangements made to transport the student home.
4. No student will be allowed entrance to the dance after 9:30 p.m.
5. Any student leaving the activity will not be allowed to re-enter.
6. Each activity shall be under the sponsorship of a school organization or sponsor.
7. Students are permitted “outside” dates for specific school activities, but must file the names of the date in the principal’s office. Centennial students will be held responsible for their date’s understanding and obeying the rules and regulations pertaining to the activity.
8. All persons attending the prom must wear either formal or semi-formal attire. Attire for other activities must conform (as a minimum) to the dress for regular school days or to the appropriateness for the event.
9. All activities must have a sponsor present. Events must be approved and scheduled through the principal’s office.
10. Any school group, with sponsor authorization, may invite all faculty, board members, and spouses, free of charge.
11. All contracts for dance bands or disc jockeys must have the signature of the principal.

SENIOR ROYALTIES
A senior may serve on only one of the following royalties:
Bronco Week–King/Queen, Prom–King/Queen, Athletic–King/Queen

FOOD AND POP
Gum, breath mints, and cough drops will be permitted as long as wrappers are disposed of properly and gum is kept off all school and personal property. All food must be consumed in the lunchroom during the lunch period.
The following is the list of areas in which it is appropriate to consume food or drink:
· Lunch
· Home-Ec Room
· Gym
· Vo-Ag Room
· Art Room
· Teacher’s Workplace
· Lobby
Students will be allowed to carry water to their classes.
Requirements of water being carried;
· Must be in a clear plastic water bottle
· Must include a cap (screw on or pull type)
· No personalized plastic or Styrofoam cups
If it is a safety hazard (example: Chemistry lab) to have water during class then the classroom teacher has the right to ask for all water bottles to remain out of the classroom on this day.

If carrying water bottles to class interferes with the normal routine of the school day then consequences will be enforced.

INITIATION INTO CLASSES AND ACTIVITIES
The practice of holding an initiation (hazing) into classes or organizations of Centennial Public School is prohibited. Students should receive assistance and encouragement to become worthwhile members of group activities and to contribute to activities that have educational value. Students who participate in after-school or before-school initiation, as well as during the day, will be subject to suspension from school. The philosophy of Centennial Public School provides for individual dignity and personal pride for all students. Hazing and initiation ceremonies are considered incompatible with the fundamental privilege of a member of the Centennial Public School student body. Exception: The National Honor Society, FFA and some other organizations have rather formal ceremonies that are in the best interest of the students.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFICERS
Any student in grades 9-12 must be passing four (4) subjects or 20 hours in order to hold a class or organizational office. This average must be maintained each semester. No student may hold more than one of the following major offices in any one year:
1. Student Council president
2. Senior Class president
3. Junior Class president
4. Yearbook editor
5. C-Club president
6. FFA President

BUS TRANSPORTATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY
It is the belief of the Centennial Board of Education that students must be well-behaved when riding school buses. The Board of Education believes this is a necessary part of a safe ride. The following list contains examples of behavior that will not be tolerated on school buses:
Moving about on the bus when the bus is in motion;
1. Use of profanity, engaging in obscene behavior such as, but not limited to, displaying obscene materials, hand gestures or using obscene speech or other obscene communication;
2. Excessive noise (determined by the bus driver);
3. Teasing or harassing other students or the driver;
4. Throwing of objects;
5. Failure to sit in an assigned seat if a driver deems this necessary;
6. Any disruptive actions;
7. Use of violence, force, coercion, threat, intimidation, or similar conduct in a manner that constitutes a substantial interference with school purposes;
8. Willfully causing or attempting to cause substantial damage to private or school property, stealing or attempting to steal private or school property of substantial value, or repeated damage or theft involving private or school property of small value (students causing damage to a school bus will be required to pay for repair or replacement costs);
9. Causing or attempting to cause physical injury to a school employee or to any student. Physical injury caused by accident, self-defense, or other action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect some other person shall not constitute a violation of this subdivision;
10. Threatening or intimidating any student for the purpose of, or with the intent of, obtaining money or anything of value from such student;
11. Knowingly possessing, handling, or transmitting any object or material that is ordinarily or generally considered a weapon;
12. Engaging in the unlawful possession, selling, dispensing, or use of a controlled substance or alcoholic liquor or tobacco products;
13. Snakes will not be allowed on buses. Advance approval (preferably one day) must be obtained from the bus driver to board other animals. Animals must be in a plastic or cardboard container. NO GLASS CONTAINERS WILL BE ALLOWED. Containers shall be taped shut to prevent accidental opening.
14. Consumption of any food/drinks will not be permitted on the bus routes;
15. Bus drivers/van drivers have the authority to report to the appropriate principal any school rule violations at bus stops or within view of the bus stops. The principals will have the authority to discipline students for school rule violations;
16. Engaging in any other activity forbidden by the laws of the State of Nebraska which activity constitutes a danger to other students or interferes with school purposes;
17. A repeated violation of any rules validly established pursuant to section 79-4, 176 of this act if such violations constitute a substantial interference with school purposes.

Bus drivers have the primary responsibility of maintaining order and discipline of all student passengers. Students receive a copy of the Transportation Policy at the outset of each school year. Drivers are to read this policy to the students so everyone is aware of expectations and discipline measures.
Prior to reporting any student behavior problems, the bus driver may administer his/her own discipline alternatives. These alternatives may include a student/parent conference, requiring the student to wash the bus, sweep out the bus, wash the inside windows, clean out between the seats, etc.
When the bus driver feels his/her efforts to effectively modify student behavior have been unsuccessful, he/she will complete an Unsatisfactory Bus Conduct Report and forward it to the appropriate principal. The principal, upon receiving and confirming the report, will take the following steps:

FIRST OFFENSE
If a student is suspected of breaking one of the above mentioned examples, said student will meet with the driver, principal, or superintendent. The student will receive a warning. A certified letter will be sent to the parents/guardians informing them of their child’s behavior and outlining the consequences of any repeated violations.
SECOND OFFENSE
The principal may deny any student the right to ride the bus for up to five (5) days. A certified letter will be sent to the parents/guardians notifying them of the decision.
Parents/guardians will be requested to meet with the bus driver, student, principal and transportation supervisor prior to riding the bus again.

FUTURE OFFENSES
The student will be denied the right to ride the school bus for the remainder of the semester. A certified letter will be sent to the parents/guardians notifying them of the decision.
Note: For more serious violations, students may be disciplined under 79-4170 - 79-4205 (Board Policy 502.2) in lieu of the above.
A note or phone call from a parent/guardian will be required before a driver will allow a student to get off the bus at a location other than their regular unloading area.
ALTERING BUS ROUTES
If some students are not riding the bus on certain days, drivers may vary their routes. Bad road conditions may also cause a bus driver to alter the route.
ACTIVITY BUS
An activity bus will transport students to Beaver Crossing, Gresham and Waco after activity practice daily. Activity drivers will not unload students enroute. Students who are not out for an activity may ride the activity bus with special permission from the principal’s office. Students serving a detention will not be permitted to ride the activity bus. (Exception: Students may ride the bus if they attend and participate in practice after serving their detention.)
MEDIA CENTER USE
Students are welcome to come to the media center to carry out research or to select reading materials.
The following procedures will be followed:
2. Upon arrival in the media center, students shall present their pass to the adult in charge. Passes will be kept at the desk until departure.
3. A student must have a pre-signed pass from the teacher for whom he/she is doing assignments to be released from study halls, etc., in order to use the media center for research.
4. A student may get a pass from any teacher in order to come in to the media center to select reading materials to read in their study hall/classroom. Once a selection is made, the student is expected to return to their study hall or class.
5. Students wishing to read current magazines found in the blue binders may sign these materials out at the check-out desk to read in their study hall/classroom for one period. Such materials are due back before the end of the period.
6. Any student not engaged in research or the selection of reading materials will be asked to leave the media center.
7. Any student disrupting others by loud talking or other means will be asked to leave the media center immediately.
8. No book bags will be allowed in the media center.
9. Detentions may be assigned when overdue materials are not renewed or returned.
10. Upon check-out, students shall have the supervising adult sign their pass.

LASER PENS/POINTERS
Students are prohibited from the use and/or possession of any laser device in school or at any school sponsored activity. Use or possession of these devices at school sponsored activities will result in confiscation of the laser device and immediate removal from the activity. Laser pointers may be allowed for in class demonstrations or presentations with teacher approval.

HARASSMENT AND BULLYING POLICY:
It is the policy of Centennial Public School that “bullying” type behavior is not to be permitted. These guidelines are established to respond specifically to bullying behavior. Students and parents are advised that other response measures are also in place and set forth in of this handbook for behavior which is discriminatory or harassing on unlawful grounds (e.g., sexual harassment, harassment of students with disabilities, race harassment, etc.).

(i) Step One: The first time school personnel become aware of a possible harassment or bullying situation, the accused student will be informed that such a complaint has been filed. At that time a warning will be given regarding this kind of behavior. The consequences for this kind of behavior in the future will be clearly outlined for the student. If, in the school’s opinion, the first occurrence of harassment behavior is severe, the school may move immediately to any of the four steps in the harassment policy. In other words, the policy may or may not be used sequentially. Moreover, at any stage the student may be disciplined under the student code by actions which may include expulsion, in the event the conduct is also a violation of other provisions of the student code.

(ii) Step Two: The second time school personnel become aware of a harassment incident, the student’s parents will be notified. A conference will be requested at that time. If it is determined that the student has harassed another student, consequences will be assigned. A student may stay on the second step as long as school authorities feel the consequences are effectively correcting the harassment behaviors. If it is determined that there is no basis for the harassment accusation, no consequences will be assigned. If the school determines that a student is intentionally making a false accusation against another student, an appropriate response will be made.

(iii) Step Three: If the school authorities determine that the student continues to harass another student or the student fails to agree to not harass in the future, the school may assign the student to the Harassment Program level set forth below which the school authorities determine to be appropriate.

(iv) Step Four: If a student fails to respond positively to the corrective measures of the Harassment Program, the student will be suspended from school for a minimum of five school days, up to expulsion. School authorities will determine the action necessary to insure a safe learning environment for all students.

Harassment and Bullying Program--Levels:
Purpose: All students have the right to attend Centennial Public School free from verbal and physical harassment and bullying. The purpose of the Harassment and Bullying Program is to protect students and staff from those who fail or refuse to comply with school guidelines regarding the treatment of others.

1. Level I: The guidelines for a Level I placement are listed below.

a. The length of the assignment will be for a minimum of two weeks.
b. The student will report to the office no later than 8:10 a.m. each morning.
c. The student will eat on campus at an assigned table.
d. The student will report to an assigned room at the end of the day, and will remain until 3:50 p.m. This will allow all other students to leave the school grounds in safety.

2. Level II: The guidelines for this level are listed below.

a. The length of the assignment will be for a minimum of two weeks.
b. The student will report to the office no later than 8:10 a.m. in the morning.
c. The student will eat on campus at an assigned table.
d. The student will report to an assigned room at the end of the day, and remain until 3:50 p.m.
e. The student will remain in class at the end of each period. The student will be under direct teacher supervision during passing time. The teacher will dismiss the student at the end of the passing period. The student will then have three minutes to get to his/her next class.

3. Level III: This is a long-term assignment. The guidelines are listed below.

a. All items listed in Level II will be used, except the length of the assignment will be no less than six weeks, and may remain in effect until the end of the school year and continue into the next, if determined to be appropriate.
The length of the assignment will be no less than six weeks, and may remain in effect until the end of the school year.

Public Displays of Affection:
Public Displays of affection will not be tolerated on school property or at school activities. Such conduct includes: hugging, kissing or any other types of affection that would be considered inappropriate or an undue distraction to others. Students will face the following consequences if this type of behavior occurs.

a. 1st Offense: Student will be confronted and directed to cease.
b. 2nd Offense: Student will be confronted, directed to cease, and parents will be notified.
c. 3rd Offense: Students will be suspended from school for a minimum of 1 day, and parents and student will n