CHAPTER VI
STUDENTS
1. Attendance
a. Eligibility for attendance: To be eligible for entrance into the
Animas Public Schools, a child must be able to benefit from the instructional
program offered.b. Students entering kindergarten in the Animas Public Schools must be
five years of age prior to 12:01 a.m. September 1, of the year the child enters
kindergarten. Therefore, this would constitute being six
years of age prior to September 1, to enter the first grade.c. Regular attendance: All students shall be expected to attend school
as many days as school is in session in accordance with the compulsory attendance
law.d. Home Schooling: When a parent/legal guardian decides that it's in their
best interest to Home School their child(ren) the parent/legal guardian is
required to submit to the local school district superintendent a
"Notification of Establishment of a Home School" form within thirty days of
establishment of a home school and by April 1 of each subsequent year.The following minimum requirements as prescribed by State Statute
must be accounted for in the Home School:1) The school year will be 180 teaching days or the hourly
requirements set for each age group by the State Department of Education.2) Students will be in school directed activities,
exclusive of lunch, in accordance with the following minimums:(a) Kindergarten - 2.5 hours per day
(b) Grades 1-6 - 5.5 hours per day (960)
(c) Grades 7-12 - 6.0 hours per day (1080)
3) Instructions will be provided for each child in reading,
language arts, mathematics, social studies and science.
4) Students will be tested annually by the local school district
on the local district testing schedule to access student achievement according
to the statewide and local district standardized testing programs.
Grade K-9: New Mexico Achievement Assessment (CTBS)
Grade 4&6: New Mexico Writing Assessment (CTBS)
Grade 10: New Mexico High School Competency Exam
The district counselor will maintain a file of all students in the
district who are being "home schooled". The counselor will work closely with the
parents/legal guardians on the testing schedules. The superintendent will
be informed in writing by the counselor of any home school students that fail to
take the required testing.When parents/legal guardians decide to return their student(s) to
the Animas Public Schools after a period of time of home schooling, the student(s)
will be tested to determine his/her current academic level and the
Screening Committee shall determine the grade placement of the student. In all
cases the final placement of the student will be determined by the school
district.
2. Attendance Policy for Elementary, Middle and High School
Regular, uninterrupted instruction, classroom participation, and interaction
with classmates are important to the educational process. For that reason and others,
state law requires that all children of appropriate age and condition attend
school regularly.New Mexico Children's Code provides that a child who has more than ten
unexcused absences per school semester is a "child in need of supervision" by the
youth authorities. State law requires the schools to report violations of the
compulsory attendance laws to the juvenile probation office. Violations of the
compulsory attendance laws can subject parents to fines. Maintaining regular school
attendance by all students is the joint responsibility of parents and educators. In
keeping with that obligation, the Board of Education prescribes the following rules
for school attendance:
A. A parent or legal guardian must telephone the school to inform the
building principal of the student's absence to include length of absence their
child will be absent and state the reason for the absence.
B. Students will be allowed nine (9) absences per semester for
which classwork can be made up for a grade. After nine (9) absences students
will lose credit for that semester. Student attendance will be taken
first period of the day for grades K-8. Secondary student attendance
will be taken by class period. A student must be in attendance at least 4
periods in order to be counted present.High School students will lose semester credit for all class periods
once he/she has more than nine (9) absences at the end of the semester.We no longer distinguish between excused and unexcused
absences. Students and parents will be responsible for their
absences.CONSEQUENCES
1. After the 4th absence, parents will receive a certified letter
from the office stating that their child is allowed nine (9) days and is in
danger of reaching that limit.2. After the 7th absence, there will be a mandatory meeting or
phone contact between parents and principal stating that their child is
allowed two more absence. On the 10th absence, he/she will
lose credit for that semester in all classes.3. After the 9th absence the office will send a memo to the
teachers notifying them that this student will no longer receives credit.
The responsibility of keeping up with absences lies with the office. The
responsibility of reporting student absences lies with the
teacher.4. Any student that has missed more than the allotted days for
a semester may not participate in the following:a. Homecoming queen or king, prince or princess candidates
b. Prom queen or king candidates
c. Student Council/National Honor Society Offices
d. Any extracurricular activities that go beyond the academic
curriculum: i.e. Honor Roll, field trips, athletics and academic awards.
C. Extracurricular Activities
Student(s) absent from school for all or part of the day will
not be eligible to participate in extra-curricular activities that day. In the
event the activity is on a Saturday or non-school day the student(s) must
be in school the last full day prior to the activity. Any exception to this rule
must be cleared through the principal's office one day prior to the activity.No student shall be absent from school for school
sponsored extra-curricular activities in excess of fifteen days per
semester, and no class may be missed in excess of fifteen times per semester.The State Superintendent may issue a waiver relating to the
number of absences for participation in any State or National Competition.
NMSA 22-12-2.1,D.)
Tardies
1) Definition:
A. Any student who is not in his/her assigned room when the bell rings.B. A tardy is excused only by a written note from a
teacher, nurse, guidance office, or administration office when a student has been delayed.C. A tardy of 10 minutes or longer will be considered an absence.
D. Students not reporting to class because they
are 10 minutes or longer late, will be charged with a truancy.2) Objectives - Students are expected to be on time for
all classes in order to benefit from the instructional program and to
develop habits of punctuality, self-discipline, and responsibility.
To achieve these goals, promptness is considered a learning
objective in every class.3) Implementation - Every three tardies in a class will be
converted to an absence.
1. It shall be the policy of the High School to give regular term and semester
examinations of all students and to keep these examinations on file in the High
School's Principal's office.2. Reporting to Parents: The school year shall be divided into four nine week
periods and a report shall be made to the parent of each student's progress in
accordance with a report calendar prepared annually by the school
administration.
C. Promotion and Retention Policy
RELATING TO EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS; REQUIRING STUDENTS TO ATTAIN A LEVEL OF PROFICIENCY REQUIRED BY ESTABLISHED CONTENT STANDARDS; PROVIDING FOR AND ACADEMIC IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS; PROVIDING FOR STUDENT ASSISTANCE TEAMS; RESTRICTING PROMOTIONS
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO:
Section 1. Section 22-2-8.6 NMSA 1978 (being Laws 1986, Chapter 33, Section 7, as
amended) is amended to read:"22-2-8.6. EDUCATIONAL CONTENT STANDARDS--REMEDIATION PROGRAMS--PROMOTION
POLICIES-REMEDIATION-RESTRICTIONS.--A. The state board shall identify educational content standards as measured
by the state assessment program and establish performance levels of proficiency. Remediation
programs, academic improvement programs and promotion policies shall be aligned with
content standards and based on the following:
(1) statewide assessment results;
(2) alternative school-district-determined assessment results; and
(3) student performance in school.
B. Local school boards shall approve district-developed remediation
programs and academic improvement programs to provide special instructional assistance
to students in grades one through eight who fail to attain a level of proficiency
established by the content standards. The cost of remediation programs and academic
improvement programs shall be borne by the school district. Remediation programs and academic
improvement programs shall be incorporated into the school district's educational plan for
student success and filed with the department of education.C. The cost of summer and extended day remediation programs and academic
improvement programs offered in grades nine through twelve shall be borne by the parent or
guardian; however, where parents are determined to be indigent according to guidelines
established by the state board, the local school board shall bear those costs.
D. Diagnosis of weaknesses identified by the reading or writing performance
assessment instrument administered pursuant to Section 22-2-8.5 NMSA 1978 may serve as
criteria in assessing the need for remedial programs or retention.
E. A parent or guardian shall be notified no later than the end of the
second grading period that his child is failing to attain appropriate grade level
proficiency in content standards, and a conference consisting of the parent or
guardian and the teacher shall be held to discuss possible remediation programs available
to assist the student in attaining the required level of proficiency established by the
contend standards. Specific academic deficiencies and remediation strategies
shall be explained to the student's parent or guardian and a written plan developed
containing time lines, academic expectations and the measurements to be used to
verify that a student has overcome his academic deficiencies. Remediation programs and
academic improvement programs include tutoring, extended day or week programs, summer
programs and other research-based models for student improvement.
F. At the end of grades one through seven, three options are available,
dependent on a student's attainment of the required level of proficiency established by the
content standards:
(1) the student has attained the level of proficiency required
by the content standards and shall enter the next higher grade;
(2) the student has not attained the required level of proficiency and
shall participate in the required level of remediation. Upon certification by the school
district that the student has successfully overcome his areas of deficiency, he shall
enter the next higher grade; or
(3) the student has not attained the level of proficiency required by
the content standards upon completion of the prescribed remediation program and upon the
recommendation of the certified school instructor and school principal shall
either be:(a) retained in the same grade for no more than one school year
with an academic improvement plan developed by the student assistance team in order
to attain proficiency of content standards, at which time the student shall enter
the next higher grade; or(b) promoted to the next grade if the parent or guardian refuses to
allow his child to be retained pursuant to Subparagraph (a) of this paragraph. In this case,
the parent or guardian shall sign a waiver indicating his desire that the student be
promoted to the next higher grade with an academic improvement plan designed to address
specific academic deficiencies. Students failing to attain proficiency of content
standards at the end of that year shall then be retained in the same grade for no more
than one year in order to have additional time to master the required content
standards.G. At the end of the eighth grade, a student who fails to attain
proficiency of content standards shall be retained in the eighth grade for no more than one
school year in order to attain proficiency of content standards or if the student
assistance team determines that retention of the student in the eighth grade will not assist
the student attain the appropriate level of academic achievement and proficiency of standards,
the team shall design a high school graduation plan to meet the student's needs for entry
into the work force or a post-secondary educational institution. If a student is
retained in the eighth grade, the student assistance team shall develop a specific
academic improvement plan that clearly delineates the student's academic deficiencies and
prescribes a specific remediation plan to address those academic deficiencies.H. A student who fails to attain proficiency of content standards for two
successive school years shall be referred to the student assistance team for placement
in an alternative program designed by the school district. Alternative
program plans shall be filed with the department of education.I. Promotion and retention decisions affecting a student enrolled in special
education shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the individual
educational plan established for that student.J. For the purpose of this action:
(1) "academic improvement plan" means a written document developed by
the student assistance team that describes the specific content standards required
for a certain grade level that a student has not achieved and that prescribes specific
remediation programs such as summer school, extended day or week school and tutoring;
(2) "alternative school-district-determined assessment results" means
the results obtained from student assessments developed by a local school board and
conducted at an elementary grade level or middle school level;
(3) "educational plan for student success" means a student-centered
tool developed to define the role of the academic improvement plan within the district that
addresses methods to improve a student's learning and success in school and that identifies
specific measures of a student's progress;
(4) "statewide assessment results" means the results obtained from the New
Mexico achievement assessment that is administered annually to grades three through nine
pursuant to state board rules; and
(5) "student assistance team" means group consisting of a student's:
(a) teachers
(b) school counselor
(c) school administrator; and
(d) parent or legal guardian
Animas Public Schools will operate in accordance with the Public School Health
Manual for Elementary & Secondary Schools.
1. Parents are asked that any child not enrolled in Animas School District be
accompanied by a parent or an adult during the whole time the child is at school, except
under school auspices.2. Visitors must check in at the principal's office and get a visitor's name tag
prior to going into a classroom or being on campus.
F. Instruction and Special Service
1. Schedules
a. School Calendar: The Superintendent of Schools shall submit for the
consideration and adoption by the Board of Education a recommended school
calendar for the following year.b. School Day: The normal school day in the Animas Schools shall be
set at the beginning of each year.c. Snow Days: The superintendent will determine if the
school district will operate on a two-hour delay schedule, or of
school cancellation each time it snows and creates hazardous driving
conditions. Unit principals and bus contractors will be notified by
telephone as to the decision not later than 6 a.m. whenever possible, and
bus contractors will in turn notify their drivers. All employees are to report
when they feel it is safe to drive within that two hour
period. Radio station KNFT will be
notified by the Administration.2. Released Times
a. Requests for released time of students shall be handled through
the principal, on an individual basis according to the merit of the request.3. Emergency Drills
a. The principal is charged with the responsibility of conducting such
emergency drills as required by state or local regulations. Additional drills may
be deemed necessary and may be held at the discretion of the
principal for the proper safety and conduct of the students.4. Extra Class Activities
a. Extra class activities shall be held to a minimum during the regular
school day. These activities must be approved by the school principal in advance
and should be of such a nature that they will complement the
approved school program.
It shall be the policy of the Board of Education to encourage the student body
representatives and other interested students to attend board meetings and be involved in
the development of rules, regulations and policies affecting the student body.
H. Student Marriages and Pregnancies (Section 10.2.1)
Animas Public Schools will comply to New Mexico Students Rights & Responsibilities SBE
regulation # 81-3.
DISCIPLINE POLICY
Corporal Punishment: The policy of Animas Public Schools shall be that corporal
punishment, reasonable in degree, is permissible.Corporal Punishment may be used by a Principal or Superintendent subject
to the following conditions:The only form of corporal punishment shall be paddling with a wooden paddle supplied by
the school, and only on the gluteus maximus.Corporal Punishment shall be administered in the presence of another certified employee
of the school.Corporal Punishment imposed on a female student shall be in the presence of a female
teacher.Corporal Punishment shall not be administered in the presence of other students.
Corporal Punishment shall be administered without anger, frustration or malice.
Corporal Punishment shall be administered and shall be documented in the
Principal's office.Corporal punishment shall not be administered without written authorization from the
parents. If corporal punishment is to be administered, it shall be only in regard to the Board
approved Discipline Policies. If the decision by the parents or guardian
forbids corporal punishment, then suspension is the only option, and the parent or
guardian must come to school and pick up their student.A student who is under suspension will receive 0's for any work missed, including
tests, and will not have the opportunity to earn credit for any work made up. In
addition, any student who is under suspension cannot attend or participate
in any school sponsored activity. All absences due to suspension will count against the nine
(9) allowed absences.Enforcing Rules of Conduct: The basis for all disciplinary action will be State Board
of Education Regulation 81-3, Rights and Responsibilities of Public Schools and Public School
Students.Nondiscriminatory Enforcement: Animas Public Schools will not enforce school rules or
impose disciplinary punishment in a manner which discriminates against student on the basis of
race, culture, ancestry, color, national origin, sex or handicap, except to the extent
otherwise permitted or required by law or regulation.
ANIMAS MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL DISCIPLINE POLICY
Philosophy
It is the philosophy of Animas Middle School and Animas High School that when discipline
of a student is necessary, it shall be sure, swift, carried out with the help and sanction of
the parents or guardians, be consistent with the policies and procedures outlined:
DEFINITIONS, OFFENSES AND ACTION:
1. DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR
Behavior which creates a willful interference with the education
process. Behavior which is so serious in nature as to be referred to the
Principal for disciplinary action. This type of behavior may occur in the
classroom, on any school property, school bus, or at any activity, athletic
or social event. This type of behavior includes but is not restricted to, the
following definitions:a. Disrespectful to staff and/or other students which causes a
disruption of the normal educational process.b. The use of profane language or gestures which is disruptive, but
not directed toward school personnel.c. The obstructing or preventing of freedom of movement or use of
facilities or the right of ingress or egress.d. The willful refusal to identify one's self upon request from school
personnel.e. The failure to disperse or leave any school facility or school event
after being requested to do so by authorized personnel.f. Insubordination - the refusal to follow a fair and reasonable
direction issued by authorized school personnel.g. The theft of minor items, such as school supplies.
h. The use of tobacco, either smoking, chewing or snuff, on school
property or at a school function or activity.i. Dishonesty.
j. Careless and reckless driving on or around school property.
All disciplinary action will be at the discretion of the building principal
and in accordance with NM Statutes.
2. SERIOUS DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIORa. The use of abusive or profane language and gestures toward school personnel
at any time.b. Physical or verbal assault (threat) on or directed toward school personnel.
This includes an actual attack or a threat with a weapon.All disciplinary action will be at the discretion of the building principal
Corporal punishment will occur only in the office of the Principal and with at least
one adult witness.
3. DAMAGE TO PROPERTY (VANDALISM)Damage to school property consists of intentional damaging or defacing personal property
of the school or school personnel without the consent of the school or school personnel.Any student who commits damage to property (vandalism) shall be liable to the school
or owner for the cost of repair or full restitution of the property or for payment to the
school or individual owner for any amount equal to the fair market value of the property,
less salvage value. In the event such a pupil shows financial inability to restore to the
school or individual owner the fair market value less salvage, an installment
payment plan shall be established.If a student is financially able to restore the value either fully or in an installment
plan, and fails or refuses to do so, the student will be recommended to the Superintendent
for expulsion until such time compliance begins. If the act is judged criminal, referral
to a Human Service Agency or the District Attorney may be invoked.4. DRUNKENNESS, DISORIENTATION, DRUG/ALCOHOL USE, SALE OR POSSESSION
The use or possession of alcohol or narcotics on a public school campus is forbidden by
New Mexico State Law. By statute, minors may not use or possess alcohol or narcotics at
any time. Therefore, their use or possession on campus, during a school sponsored
activity, or their use prior to coming on campus will subject the violator to suspension or
expulsion.The possession, manufacture, use, delivery or sale of alcoholic beverages or
controlled substances (drugs) by students in school, on school grounds or at any school
sponsored event is illegal and is expressly forbidden. In addition, students will not
use alcohol or controlled substances prior to entering school property or a school sponsored
activity. The smell of alcohol on the student or students who are under the influence of
mood altering chemicals on school property or at a school sponsored event will constitute a
violation of this policy.A violation of this policy will lead to an immediate suspension with a reinstatement
conference to be held in three days. At this conference the appropriate school administrator
will make a decision regarding three possible opinions: a) an expulsion hearing,
b) long term suspension, c) reinstatement at the end of a five day suspension for alcohol
only.
In addition to the above, a violation of the above policy by a student involved in or a
member of any school sponsored activity, the FIRST OFFENSE, will result in the
immediate suspension from any further participation in all activities for a period
of two (2) calendar weeks. If a SECOND OFFENSE occurs, the result will be an immediate
suspension from any further participation in all activities for the remainder of the
school year.This section of Board Policy is to be administered in conjunction with
Chapter 14 of Board Policy.5. FIGHTING, HAZING
Fighting is the assault (physical or verbal) between students or directed toward a
student(s). After careful investigation to ascertain the extenuating and individual
circumstances, the Principal may take the appropriate disciplinary action he/she sees
fit.Hazing will not be permitted as a condition of membership in any group or organization
which is in any way connected with the Animas Public School District. School personnel are
required to stop any type of hazing which may be encountered at school, near school
or at any school-sponsored activity.6. SEXUAL HARASSMENT
The effective education of our students requires a school environment in which students
feel safe and secure. Sexual harassment of students, whether by employees or by other
students, impairs the proper atmosphere for education, and often creates an
inequitable climate for learning.Nationwide survey information indicates that the problem is widespread. A majority of
students--both boys and girls-- reported that they have experienced some form of sexual
harassment in schools. Those students reported that their experiences had a
variety of negative effects on themselves and their education. Some of the results reported
were that students did not want to go to school or did not want to participate in
class as much, found it harder to pay attention in class or to study, thought about changing
schools, or wondered if they could graduate.In addition to its negative effect upon education, sexual harassment negatively affects
the characters of young people, both the harassers and the victims of harassment. That is
particularly so in view of the special vulnerability of students at different stages
of their personal development. It is clear that sexual harassment, whether verbal or by
other conduct, can create stress and distraction, and upsetting feelings of fear,
inferiority, or anger, which are detrimental to the education of young people. Toleration of
sexual harassment also sends the wrong message regarding appropriate wrong
social conduct. Sexual harassment is inappropriate behavior in school because it is
inappropriate behavior in society.It is also illegal. Title IX of the Federal Education Amendments of 1972
provides that schools must provide an educational program that offers equal educational
benefits for boys and girls. Decisions of the United Sates Supreme Court and the United States
Department of Education make clear that sexual harassment of student by employees or by
other students may violate the law.The Animas Board of Education therefore forbids harassment of any students on the basis of
sex. The Board will not tolerate sexual-harassment of students by employees or by other
students.The intent of this policy regarding conduct between employees and students is clear and
straightforward: No employee of the school district may engage in any conduct of a sexual
nature with any student, regardless of the students age, ability to consent, or actual
consent. The intent of this policy regarding conduct among students requires some
further discussion. Much of the conduct described in the detailed
specification of this policy--including sexually-oriented name calling, graffiti, teasing,
etc.--clearly has no place in school, and would not be welcome by anyone. Requests for dates
or other age-appropriate, expressions of interest of affection, however, are not
characteristically inappropriate, and can even contribute to the socialization process that is
a large part of education. Accordingly, requests for dates and other age-appropriate
expressions of interest between students is not sexual harassment unless the student
to whom such requests or expressions are directed has indicated that they are NOT
welcome. When a student has made reasonably clear that he or she does not welcome the
requests or attention by the other student, it is sexual harassment for the other student to
continue to make such requests or give attention. In other words, you do have to take
"NO" for an answer.ELEMENTARY DISCIPLINE POLICY
The discipline policy of the Animas Elementary School shall conform in all respects to
the discipline policy as detailed in this section of the Policy Handbook. The basic premise
is that a public school must have an orderly environment in which learning is not
jeopardized by disruptions. Students are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior that when
a student fails to practice self-discipline, disciplinary action by the teacher and/or
other school officials becomes necessary. The type of discipline will depend upon the
student's disciplinary background and attitude and the seriousness of the student's
action. The professional judgment of the teacher or other school officials directly involved
with the particular incident will be the basis for the final action taken.A. GENERAL STATEMENT
All officials, employees and authorized agents of the public schools whose
responsibilities include supervision of students shall stand in Loco Parentis with regard
to students they are required to supervise at any time the responsibility of
supervision exists. This authority applies whenever students are lawfully subject
to the school's control regardless of place. During such periods, public
school authorities shall have the right to supervise and control the conduct of students,
and students shall have the duty to submit to the school's authority. A
disciplinary action may include but not be limited to:1. Verbal correction/reprimand
2. Student/teacher conference
3. Communication with parents
4. Parents/teacher conference
5. Monetary restitution for loss or damage
6. Detention (recesses)
7. Corporal punishment (spanking-only with parent permission and
conducted by the Principal).
8. In-school suspension
9. Short-term suspension (1-9 days)
10. Long-term suspension (more than 10 days)
11. Recommendation for expulsionB. INDIVIDUAL CLASSROOM RULES--IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS
For any discipline policy to be successful, every student must know the
rules to be obeyed. In order to insure this is the case, every teacher, during
the first day of school, will set his/her own classroom rules. These rules will be
based on Assertive Discipline, or a eclectic approach approved by the
administrator. These rules will be discussed with the students to ascertain
that everyone fully understands what is expected. The process by which
these rules are enforced will also be discussed thoroughly.A listing of the individual classroom rules, general rules, and serious
offenses, along with the implementation process will be sent home to the parents to be
signed by them and returned, thus indicating their awareness of the rules of conduct
their children can be expected to follow.C. GENERAL RULES
In addition to the individual classroom rules described in Section B above, there
are some general rules which everyone is expected to follow at all times. These
will be discussed with the student during the first day of school. Infractions
of these rules will be added to the student's record in the classroom, and the
punishment will be applied according to the process of implementation outlined above.
The list of general rules follows. This list may be amended as various
situations arise to warrant such a change.1. Academics-Students are responsible for completing assigned school work
within the time limits prescribed by the teacher. Cheating will not be tolerated.2. Items From Home-Student should not bring valuables or other items from
home which may be damaged or cause damage to property or may be harmful to other
students. This includes but is not limited to things such as stereo
players (jam boxes), toy guns and toy knives. The school is not responsible for
the loss or damage of personal property.3. Chewing Gum/Eating-Students shall not chew gum, eat candy, etc.
during class time. No food is to be taken out of the cafeteria at lunch time.4. Loss/Damage of School Property-Students and parents or guardians
shall be held fiscally responsible for loss/damage done to school property
(equipment, textbooks, buildings, furniture, etc.)5. Scuffling and Boisterous Play-Students are expected to play and
behave properly at all times while at school. Students must be responsible for
considering the safety and feelings of others as well as themselves.6. Use of Profanity/Abusive Language-The use of profanity, abusive
language or obscene gestures is prohibited.7. Leaving School Grounds-No pupil shall leave the school grounds during
school hours without permission of school authorities.8. Cafeteria-Students will abide by the rules as posted in the
cafeteria.
9. On Campus-Students will walk quietly to and from recesses, lunch,
and other classes. There will be no running, pushing, shoving, or loud talking.10. Disrespectful Behavior-An attitude of respect for authority will be
displayed at all times. Belligerence, hostility, and uncontrolled anger
will not be tolerated.11. Rock Throwing-Throwing rocks (or any object that can cause physical
damage) is a serious misbehavior. Severe physical harm can result from throwing
objects even though not done maliciously.12. Fighting-Students will not threaten, harass, intimidate or inflict
bodily injury to any person while under the jurisdiction of the school.D. SERIOUS MISBEHAVIOR
Certain misbehavior and actions on the part of students are considered to be
more serious than others. These actions are generally identified as deliberate,
willful, and/or malicious acts done in flagrant violation of school rules. They
may also be defined as acts that are deliberate and hazardous or even life
threatening. When an act is judged as "serious" the implementation process
described above will be bypassed, and strong disciplinary action imposed. Parents will
be called every time a "Serious Misbehavior" occurs. A partial list of such
misbehavior is included below. The professional judgment of the teachers and
administrators involved will determine if an individual misbehavior is judged as
"serious".1. Theft/Vandalism of School Property-Students and parents (or
guardians) shall be held fiscally responsible for loss due to theft/vandalism done to
school property (equipment, textbooks, buildings, furniture, etc.).2. Bring Weapons to School-The Board of Education recognizes
that the presence of weapons in school not only creates unacceptable risks of injury
or death, but also creates a climate that undermines the educational
purposes of the schools. Accordingly, it is the policy of the Board of Education
to forbid the possession, custody, and use of weapons by unauthorized persons in
or around school property.This policy is enacted to implement the requirements of the Federal
Gun Free Schools Act, 33 U.S.C. 3351 and it is the intention of the Board that it
be interpreted to conform to provisions of those referenced laws.
Definitions:
Weapon: For purposes of this policy, a "weapon" is any firearm,
knife, explosive, or other object, even if manufactured for a nonviolent purpose,
that has a potentially violent use, if, under the surrounding
circumstances, the purpose of keeping or carrying the object is for use, or threat
of use, as a weapon.Firearm: For purposes of this policy, and for purposes of
compliance with the federal Gun Free Schools Act, a "firearm" is defined as any
weapon, including a stare gun, which will or is designed to or may readily be
converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; the frame
or receiver of any such weapon; any firearm muffler or firearm silencer, or any
destructive device.Prohibitions: It is the policy of the Board that no student shall
bring a weapon into a school zone, nor carry or keep any weapon in a school zone or
while attending or participating in any school activity, including during
transportation to or from such activity. This prohibition shall not apply to
possession of a weapon on private property not part of school
grounds within a school zone.Enforcement: This policy shall be enforced according to the Board's
Student Search and Seizure Policy. Disciplinary actions pursuant to this
policy shall follow the procedures prescribed by the State Board of
Education Regulation No. 81-3, as amended, and the policies of the
District.Penalties for Violations:
Any student found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject
to discipline, including long-term suspension and expulsion.In compliance with the Federal Gun Free Schools Act, any student
found to be in violation of this policy due to possession of a firearm, as defined
in this policy, shall, at a minimum, be expelled from school for a
period of not less than one year, provided, that the Superintendent or the Board
of Education may modify such penalty in appropriate cases in their discretion.
All students found in violation of this policy shall be referred to
the appropriate legal authorities.3. Harmful Substances-Students are not allowed to bring or use harmful
substances such as alcohol, tobacco or narcotics of any type. Use or possession
will invoke the Substance Abuse Policy and Procedures.When a student commits a serious infraction he will be referred to the Principal for
disciplinary action. This action can include but not be limited to one of the following:*Restitution, either monetary or through school services, as deemed appropriate
*Isolation from other students
*Corporal punishment administered by the Principal
*Detention
*In-School suspension
*Short term suspension (1-9 days)
If a student is found guilty of committing subsequent serious misbehavior, a long term
suspension (10 days or more) can be applied if judged appropriate. Due process as outlined
in the Animas Public Schools Board Policy will be followed.SCHOOL BUS DISCIPLINE
Student transportation is a privilege, not a right, extended to qualified students.
Students who do not obey regulations as set forth in the Department of Education,
Transportation Division, School Bus Driver Manual, may have their
transportation privileges revoked by school officials. The school bus driver is
exclusively in full charge of all students when they are riding the school bus. Drivers shall
report all serious discipline cases to the building Principal of the school to which the
student is being transported.The bus driver shall have the authority to suspend a student's transportation
privilege for one day. The driver shall notify the school Principal of this action and the
driver will notify the parents. Further disciplinary problems caused by the student may
result in riding privileges being permanently revoked. Student's riding privileges may be
permanently revoked for any student found to be under the influence of alcohol,
drugs, destruction of school property, or threat of bodily harm to passengers or drivers.
The permanent suspension of the student shall be the joint decision of the Principal
and the school bus driver in consultation with the parents or guardians. Permanent
suspension from school buses may be appealed to the Superintendent.The bus drivers and bus contractor shall abide by State Board of Education Regulation 83-3
in all aspects.
Public school authorities, including school boards, administrators, teachers
and others in positions where supervision of public school students is part of
their responsibility shall stand "in loco parentis" with regard to those students
during such times that they have the responsibility of supervising, instructing or
otherwise controlling such students. During such periods public school authorities
shall have the right of supervision and control over the conduct of such students.This regulation is intended to reflect the common law with regard to the rights,
duties and liabilities of public school authorities in supervising, controlling and
disciplining students and nothing herein shall be construed as enlarging the liability
of public school authorities beyond that imposed by statute, common law or regulation of the
State Board of Education.
K. Confidentiality of Student Records
The schools must make every effort to keep student records confidential and out of the
hands of those who might use these for other than legitimate purposes.Information of a highly confidential and personal nature about students that counselors,
teachers, and other school personnel acquire must be respected as confidential.Disclosure to the Student Himself
A. Faculty and administrative officers of the school who have a legitimate interest
in the material and demonstrate a need to know, should be permitted to look over the
required records of any student.B. The contents of the official folder of a student should not be sent outside
the Office of the Registrar or other records office except in circumstances
specifically authorized by the Principal or the custodian of the other
records. A permanent record card should never leave the Office of the Principal or other
official since copies can readily be prepared.Disclosure to Parents, Educational Institutions and Agencies
A. Transcripts or grade reports may be released to parents or guardians without prior
approval from the student if enrolled in any school in New Mexico.B. A request for a transcript or other academic information from another
institution of learning indicating the reason therefore may be honored, as a matter of
inter institutional courtesy. There is no need to secure prior approval from the
student.C. Requests from research organizations making statistical studies may be honored
without prior approval of the student provided no information revealing the student's
name is supplied.
Disclosure to Government Agencies
A. Properly identified representatives from federal, state, or local government
agencies may be given the following information if expressly requested:a. verification of date and place of birth
b. school or division of enrollment and class
c. dates of enrollment
d. home and local addresses and telephone numbers
e. name and address of parent or guardian
B. Concerning release of further information, it should be noted that
government investigative agencies as such have no inherent legal right to access to
student files and records. When additional information is requested, it should
be released only on written authorization from the student. If such authorization is
not given, the information should be released only on court order or
subpoena. If a subpoena is served, the student whose record is being subpoenaed
should be notified and that subpoena should be referred to the school's legal
counsel.Disclosure to Other Individuals and Organizations
Information furnished to other individuals and organizations should be
limited to the items listed below under "Telephone Inquiries" unless the request is
accompanied by an information or transcript release signed by
the student.Disclosure in Response to Telephone Inquiries
A. Extreme caution must be used when any information is released in response to
telephone inquiries and should be limited to:1. whether or not the student is currently enrolled;
2. the school or division in which he/she was enrolled
and his class;3. dates of enrollment
B. Release of addresses or telephone numbers should be consistent with school
policy governing distribution of student directories.C. Urgent requests for student information, e.g., address, telephone number, or
immediate whereabouts, based upon an apparent emergency, should be handled by the
Principal, including the reference to other appropriate office of individual.(Also see the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, PL 93-380)
Violations of Confidentiality
A. Violations of confidentiality of student records shall be deemed a misdemeanor,
punishable by imprisonment in the county jail for not less than ten or more than sixty
days, or by a fine of not less than $100, no more than $500. (10-17-12 NMSA,
1978)
L. Graduation Requirements at Animas High School
All ninth (9th) graders will have on file a Four-Year Plan signed by the student,
parent and counselor. Plans will be established prior to the end of the student's eighth
(8th) grade year.1. Four units in English, with major emphasis on grammar and
literature.2. Mathematics -- 3 units (additional units are recommended for college and
vocational training bound students.)3. Three units of social science, which shall include United States history and
geography, world history and geography, and government and
economics.
4. Science -- 2 units, one unit must be a laboratory science and one in any other
science. Additional units are recommended for college bound students.5. Physical Education -- 1 unit (exemptions only as provided by the State Board of
Education.)6. Communication Skills -- 1 unit, substitute classes meeting 1 unit communication
skills requirement: 1 year of Mock Law, 1 year of Drama, 2 years of Vocational
Agriculture, and 2 years of Family and Consumer Science.7. Keyboarding -- 1 unit
8. Health Education -- 1/2 unit
9. Nine elective units. Only the following elective units shall be counted toward
meeting the requirements for graduation: Fine Arts (Music, Band, Chorus), Physical
Education, Spanish I and II, Speech, and Journalism. Vocational or
Business Education, Math, Science, English, and other electives approved by the Animas
Board of Education and the State Board of Education.10. Students are encouraged to have at least one unit in a foreign language.
11. Twenty-four (24) total units.
12. Students must enroll in an approved class each period of the school day. See
exceptions below.13. Graduating seniors who wish to take less than 7 units must
enroll in at least three academic and/or vocational courses. Requests may
be approved by the superintendent or designee if a written request is made by the
parent(s) or guardian. Consideration will be given only to students under hardship
cases or when evidence of employment can be furnished to the superintendent or
designee.14. No student shall receive a high school diploma who has not passed a state
competency examination in the subject areas of reading, English, math, science and
social science. If a student exits from the school system at the end of grade
twelve without having passed a state competency examination, he/she shall
receive an appropriate state certificate indicating the number of credits earned
and the grade completed.
If seniors are short credits for graduation (not more than two), and the student cannot
be placed in a regular classroom the deficiency(s) may be made up by correspondence.
The credits earned through correspondence or extension study may be accepted if such
credits are from schools approved or accredited by the National Home Study Council,
the state board of education of the state in which they are located, or by a college or
university which is regionally accredited for such purposes. The building principal will
make a recommendation to the superintendent only after insuring that the correspondence
course meets state approval for graduation.Students will be classified according to credit requirements listed below. Students
must participate in the class level attained through credits earned.
0-5
Freshman
12-16 Junior
6-11
Sophomore
17-24 Senior
Pertaining to 8th Grade: Section 22-2-8.4. Graduation requirements --
indicates that credits/units successfully completed for graduation requirements shall begin
with students entering the ninth grade in the 1986-87 school year and these minimum 24
units shall be earned in grades nine through twelve. Therefore 8th grade students cannot earn
credits for graduation requirements in classes taken during their 8th grade year.
TI-IN COURSE REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES
Criteria for taking TI-IN courses are as follows:
1. Courses cannot be taken through TI-IN if the course is offered by AHS unless
the students schedule does not allow for the class offered by AHS.
2. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required in order to take TI-IN courses or
permission from the High School Principal and Counselor.
3. The student must be a Junior or Senior.
4. The student must have a record of satisfactory conduct.
5. The student must have a satisfactory attendance record.
6. Many of the courses are a year in length. A student may not withdraw from the
course at semester, even if the student is failing.
7. Withdrawing from a TI-IN course must be done through the Counselor's office and
the student is not considered as having until it is acknowledged by TI-IN.
8. Completion of assignments is the student's responsibility. All assignments
must be mailed to the instructor on time.
9. The student must be on track with meeting the requirements for graduation.
10. Student failing a TI-IN course must reimburse the school district for the cost
of the course.
11. The grade received by the student will be calculated in the student's GPA at a
standard weighting.
CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT GUIDELINES
Concurrent enrollment courses are established by a yearly contract with Western New Mexico
University. These courses could include:Nutrition
Auto CAD
Advanced Math
WeldingThe expectation for students participating in concurrent enrollment courses exceed the
expectations for students not taking these courses for college credit.Participation requirements:
1. Must be a Junior or Senior
2. Must be on tract with meeting the credit requirements for graduation.
3. A GPA of at least 2.0 or the recommendation of the principal of the high school.
4. A record of satisfactory conduct.
5. A satisfactory attendance record.
6. A demonstrated interest in a vocationally oriented occupational
objective.
7. Career counseling at the secondary level.
8. Parent of participating students will be provided with information on the
program and asked to grant their consent.
9. Must sign a concurrent enrollment contract for this class.
10. Must pass course with a 3.0 or above to receive college credit
Mid-year graduation from Animas High School will be permitted only when the following
conditions are met:1. A written request from the parents must be filed with the
counseling office.2. The parent's request is supported by sound reasons for the request for early
graduation.3. The Board approves mid-year graduation based upon recommendation of
Principal and Superintendent.4. If approved, all activities with the school will be terminated at that time.
5. The diploma will be issued at regular graduation time.
1. Subject Grade
a. The subject grade should be based upon pupil mastery of the course.
The teacher will make every effort to establish a reasonable standard for average
achievement in each of the subjects. If, at any time, the teacher is in
doubt that this standard is either too high or too low, he should discuss the
matter with his principal.b. The following grading system will be followed:
GRADE NUMERICAL-GPA
A 90-100
B 80-89
C 70-79
D 60-69
F Below 602. The following recommendations should be observed in implementing a grading system.
a. The grading system should be consistent within the class for the
entire year.
P. Valedictorian, salutatorian, Honor Student, Scholarship Awards
There will be one valedictorian and one salutatorian. The graduating student with the
highest cumulative grade point average (GPA) will be the valedictorian and the graduating
student with the next highest GPA will be the salutatorian. In case of identical GPA's, the
top two students will be designated co-valedictorian and no salutatorian will be recognized.
Should there be identical GPA's students qualifying for salutatorian, co-salutatorian will be
recognized.
Only those students who have been members of Animas Senior Class during all of their
Junior and Senior years can qualify for valedictorian and salutatorian. Students must take and
complete three (3) full credits of honor courses at Animas High School in order to qualify for
valedictorian and salutatorian beginning with the class of 2001. Grades will be computed for
four (4) years (grades 9-12). Any student whose GPA is better than either of the two students
who do qualify but does not meet the residence and honors course requirement, will be
designated as a "Special Honor Student" and given appropriate recognition.To determine the cumulative GPA for these students the accumulation of the grades will be
cut off at the end of the 4th nine-week grading period of their senior year. The GPA's may be
averaged up to six (6) decimal places when necessary to break a tie.
ACADEMIC GRADING SCALE
GRADE
NUMERICAL-GPA
A
90-100
B
80-89
C
70-79
D
60-69
F
Below-60
Students will have the opportunity to contract the following courses for "Honors Credit":
Algebra II, Chemistry, Intermediate College Algebra, Ecology, Physics, Trigonometry, Biology IIStudents taking courses for honors credit must have Counselor's Approval prior to
enrollment. Star-Net/TI-IN AP courses only can be taken for honors credit.Class Rank
Beginning with the class 2001, class rank will be determined by using the above numerical
percentages.Honor Roll: The honor roll will be divided into two
categories:
1) "A" honor roll will consist of students having "A's" in all classes.
2) "Principals
Merit" honor roll will consist of students
having a "B" or above in all classes.
The honor roll will be compiled at the end of each grade period and proper recognition
given those students earning the honor.Honors listed above may be withheld for the following reasons.
1) Character or behavior unbecoming to an Animas Student.
2) Discipline
Scholarship Awards and other Honors granted by Non-School
Organizations:Any organization outside the school desiring GPA different from the above must make the request
in writing to the Principal. The request must include the criteria to be used and how the GPA
will be used. This information may be released to those making the request with the approval
of the Administration. Reasonable time must be allowed for the school to collect the data
requested.
Accredited Schools (Private and Public)
Students transferring from a non-accredited school will be placed upon recommendation
of a screening committee. The screening committee will be comprised of two teachers,
counselor, Principal, Superintendent, and parents. The decision on
placement of the screening committee will be final.
The Screening committee will use the following as the criteria and process for placement:
1) Review of prior curriculum and student performance within that curriculum.
2) Review of curriculum tests unit, nine weeks, and semester)
3) Review of standardized tests scores
4) Review of documentation to assure instruction consisted at least 180 days for 2.5
hrs. per day for kindergarten, 5.5 hrs. per day for grades 1-6, and 6.0 hrs. per day for
grades 7-12 or the equivalent.5) Review of results of district administered exit competency exam over last grade
completed.6) Review of any other material which will assist the committee in
accurate grade placement of the child.7) In case of home school, review of all required testing results, review of
course work and progress, while being home schooled. Students may be required to take a
standard examination to help determine grade placement when enrolled or
re-enrolled to the Animas School District.