ARGOS COMMUNITY SCHOOL
INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION
Dear Student and Parents:
The purpose of this handbook is to acquaint Argos School Corporation students and parents with
the rules and regulations that pertain to the Elementary and Junior-Senior High School. Argos
Community Schools is a “public school” located in Argos, Indiana, and provides an educational
experience for students. EACH STUDENT AND PARENT/GUARDIAN SHOULD READ THIS
HANDBOOK AND BE KNOWLEDGEABLE OF ITS CONTENTS.
The policies contained within this handbook are those that the administration believes are
reasonable and necessary to carry out the educational function or school purposes. As a member
of the school, you are expected to follow the rules that are established for the welfare of the entire
student body. These policies apply to summer school as well as the regular school year.
SPECIAL NOTE: Not everything regarding policies, situations and goals for students can be
addressed in this handbook. This handbook provides the key provisions of board policy
and the board policy manual. The board policy manual should be consulted for the full text
of a particular policy. If there should be a discrepancy between this handbook and School
Board policy, the School Board policy prevails.
Copies of all the Indiana Codes and Policies mentioned in this handbook are available in the
superintendent’s office.
Argos Community Schools strives to create a blended environment that encourages
communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity in order to prepare our
students for college and careers.
The following definitions are to help clarify certain terms that are found on the following pages of
this handbook:
“Good Standing” means a student in good standing at Argos Community Schools does not have
excessive tardies and/or absences or excessive discipline referrals. Students not in “good
standing” shall not be able to attend or participate in ANY EXTRACURRICULAR activities.
(This includes: Athletics, Clubs, Dances, Field trips, etc.)
“Elementary” means any combination of grades Pre-k through 6.
“Jr. High” means any combination of grades 7, 8.
“High School” means any combination of grades 9, 10, 11, 12. (IC 20-18-2-7)
“ISTEP program” refers to the Indiana statewide testing for educational progress program
developed and administered under IC 20-32-5. (IC 20-18-2-10)
“Graduation examination” means the test designated by the state also known as the End of Course
Assessment (ECA). (IC 20-18-2-6)
“Nonpublic school”
(a.) means a school that is not maintained by a school corporation.
(b.) The term includes a private school or parochial school. (IC 20-18-2-12)
“Parent” means
(1.) the natural father or mother of a child;
(2.) in the case of adoption, the adopting father or mother of a child;
(3.) if custody of the child has been awarded in a court proceeding to someone other than the
mother or father, the court appointed guardian or custodian of the child; or
(4.) if the parent of a child are divorced, the parent to whom the divorce decree or modification
awards custody or control with respect to a right or obligation under this title. (IC
20-18-2-13)
“Principal” refers to the chief administrative officer of a school. (IC 20-18-2-14)
“Public School” means a school maintained by a school corporation. (IC 20-18-2-15)
“Public School Transfers” means the public school corporation is to report to the Indiana
Department of Education the date by which request to transfer must be received by the school
corporation. (IC 20-26-11-32).
“School Corporation” means a public school corporation established by Indiana law. (IC
20-18-2-16)
“School Purposes” (IC 20-33-8-4) refers to the purposes for which a school corporation operates,
including the following:
• To promote knowledge and learning generally.
• To maintain an orderly and effective educational system.
“School year” means the period:
(1) beginning after June 30 of each year; and
(2.) ending before July 1 of the following year; except when a different period is specified for a
particular purpose.
“Superintendent” means: (1.) the chief administrative officer of a school corporation. (IC
20-18-2-21)
“Teacher” means a professional person whose position in a school corporation requires certain
teacher training preparation and licensing. (IC 20-18-2-22)
“Textbook” means systematically organized material designed to provide a specific level of
instruction in a subject matter category. (IC 20-18-2-23)
“School issued student device” means the electronic device for student use, issued by the school
corporation for educational purposes.
“Truancy” means being absent from school without parent or school permission or any deliberate
or unnecessary absence from school or class for which arrangements have not been made.
ACCESS TO EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY & NONDISCRIMINATION
The School Board does not discriminate on the basis of religion, race, color, national origin, sex,
disability, or age in its programs, activities, or employment.
SCHEDULE - SCHOOL HOURS & ACTIVITY PERIOD
SCHOOL HOURS: School hours for all 7-12 students are 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday,
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. School hours are 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for students
K-6. The school day for Jr. Sr. High consists of seven periods, a 20 minute activity period (only on
Tuesday and Thursday), and one lunch period of 30 minutes. Students are not to be in the building
prior to 7:30 a.m. or after 3:00 p.m. unless they are involved in a SUPERVISED extracurricular
program or are under the direction of a school employee. Students are not to be in the building
unless they are supervised. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action. High School
students will be allowed to move from the lobby area and be in the hallways during the morning
period at 7:45 a.m. before the regular school day begins. Jr. High students must remain in the
high school lobby area until the regular school day begins. Elementary students are allowed into
classrooms at 7:55 a.m. as each individual class has their own schedule.
ACTIVITY PERIOD: Activity Period is set up for clubs and activities to meet on scheduled days.
On days when students are not participating in a meeting for clubs or activities, Activity Period shall
serve as a study time for students. This is not to be used as a lecture time for teachers.
SCHEDULES
REGULAR (MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY)
Jr. High
Class Period
High School
8:00 – 8:56
1st Period
8:00 – 8:56
9:00 - 9:51
2nd Period
9:00 - 9:51
9:55 - 10:46
3rd Period
9:55 - 10:46
10:50 – 11:20
JH Lunch
Sr. High 4th hour
10:50 - 11:41
11:24 - 12:15
JH 4th Period
Sr. High Lunch
11:45 - 12:15
12:19 - 1:10
5th Period
12:19 - 1:10
1:14 - 2:05
6th Period
1:14 - 2:05
2:09 - 3:00
7th Period
2:09 - 3:00
REGULAR (TUESDAY AND THURSDAY)
Jr. High
Class Period
High School
8:00 - 8:49
1st Period
8:00 - 8:49
8:53 - 9:37
2nd Period
8:53 - 9:37
9:41 - 10:25
3rd Period
9:41 - 10:25
10:25-10:46
AP(Students remain in 3rd period
class for AP on TUESDAY)
10:25-10:46
10:50 -11:20
JH lunch Period
HS 4th Period
10:50 - 11:41
11:24 - 12:15
JH 4th Period
HS Lunch
11:45 - 12:15
12:19 - 1:03
5th Period
12:19 - 1:03
1:03 - 1:24
AP(Students remain in 5th period
class for AP on THURSDAY)
1:03 - 1:24
1:28 - 2:12
6th Period
1:28 - 2:12
2:16 - 3:00
7th Period
2:16 - 3:00
JH/HS 2 HOUR DELAY
Jr. High
Class Period
High School
10:00 –10:28
1st Period
10:00 – 10:37
10:32-11:00
2nd Period
10:32-11:00
11:00-11:30
JH Lunch
HS 3rd Period
11:04-11:45
11:34-12:15
JH 3rd Period
HS Lunch
11:45-12:15
12:19-12:56
4th Period
12:19-12:56
1:00-1:37
5th Period
1:00-1:37
1:41-2:18
6th Period
1:41-2:18
2:22-3:00
7th Period
2:22-3:00
Elementary 2 Hour Delay Schedule
10:00
School Begins
10:10-10:50
5th / 6th Grade Specials
11:15-11:45
K,1st, 2nd Grade Lunch
12:05-12:35
K, 1st, 2nd Grade Recess
12:05-12:35
3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th Grade Lunch
12:35-12:50
3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th Grade Recess
SCHOOL COLORS & SONG
School Colors - Black and Old Gold
School Mascot – Dragon
School Song - (Tune of “On Wisconsin”)
Argos High School, Argos High School
`Tis for you we fight
Drop the ball right in the basket
Listen to our cries, RAH, RAH, RAH
Argos High School, Argos High School
Fight on for your fame
Fight fellows, fight, fight, fight
We’ll win this game.
A-A-ARG-G-G-GOS, A-R-G-O-S
(repeat both verses)
ACADEMICS - ELEMENTARY
Letter Grade
% Equivalent
Letter Grade
% Equivalent
A+
100-98
C+
79-77
A
97-93
C
76-73
A-
92-90
C-
72-70
B+
89-87
D+
69-67
B
86-83
D
66-63
B-
82-80
D-
62-60
F
59-0
To receive a passing grade for the semester the student must:
1. Be in good standing in the class at the close of the semester,
2. Maintain a 0.5 average or above,
3. And have at least two passing six weeks grades.
Occasionally extenuating circumstances might arise that make it necessary for the teacher to fail a
student for the semester even though the student has an index average of .5 Or higher and two
passing grades. If such an occasion arises, the teacher shall consult with the principal and file a
complete written report with the principal if a failing grade is assigned under the mentioned
circumstances. This method of determining final grades for the semester provides for a consistent
pattern yet maintains the integrity of teachers’ decisions through an element of flexibility.
The letter “I” on the grade card shows all incomplete grades. An incomplete grade is given only in
the case of illness or other excused absence from class. It must be removed within a certain time
stipulated by the teacher, but no, later than 10 school days into the next grading period. An
incomplete grade is not considered a passing grade when determining a student’s athletic
eligibility.
Students will be recognized for their academic success by placing them on a “high honor roll” if
they make all A’s in all subjects except writing or on an “honor roll” if they make all A’s and B’s in all
subjects except writing.
GRADE LEVEL EXPECTATIONS
KINDERGARTEN
Kindergarten students do not receive letter grades. A checklist of skills each grading period is used
to inform parents and guardians how each student is progressing. Below are the skills we expect
students to be able to do by the end of the school year.
1. Color neatly in the lines.
2. Cut on the lines.
3. Recognize all the letters of the alphabet, upper and lower case.
4. Read the color words and number words to 10.
5. Read the word wall words (common sight words).
6. Write and count to 100.
7. Count sets of objects to 20.
8. Add and subtract to 10.
9. Take care of personal belongings.
10. Interact with other students politely.
11. Follow directions.
12. Know all the consonant and vowel sounds and be able to blend them into words.
FIRST GRADE
1. A passing score is C- or above.
2. Proper usage of capitalization and punctuation is expected from students.
3. Students are expected to properly write letters and numbers with no reversals.
4. First graders are expected to be responsible. It is the job of the student to be prepared by
taking home necessary materials such as reading books and take home folders and return
them daily.
5. Students are expected to complete work independently in a timely manner.
SECOND GRADE
1. Students should be able to read fiction and nonfiction fluently and comprehend with 80%
accuracy. Students should be able to read and comprehend chapter books with 80% accuracy
by the end of the year.
2. Students should be able to write in complete sentences, spelling high frequency words
correctly, stick to a topic for paragraph writing, and write a complete page of research or story
by the end of the year.
3. Students should be able to master addition and subtraction facts to ten, doubles, and doubles
+1. Students should be able to regroup with addition and subtraction with 2 & 3 digit numbers,
count money, tell time to 5 minute intervals, model basic fractions, measure distance and
liquids, know 2 & 3 dimensional shapes, and problem solve.
4. Students should make passing grades of C- (74%) or above in Reading, Spelling, Grammar,
and Math according to Indiana State Standards.
5. Students should be responsible for completing and returning homework assignments and
bringing materials needed for class.
THIRD GRADE
1. Students should make passing grades of C- (74%) or higher in Reading, Spelling, Language
Arts, Science, and Math according to the Indiana State Standards.
2. Students should be able to read fiction and nonfiction (expository text) fluently and
comprehend with 80% accuracy. Students should be able to cite evidence from text to support
answers.
3. Chapter books should be read within a Lexile range of 520-820 and passed with an 80% or
higher comprehension quiz score.
4. Each month, students have a Challenge Reading goal they are expected to meet or surpass. 4
quizzes (6 party) must be passed each grading period.
5. Students are expected to use cursive writing for all spelling work.
6. Students are expected to successfully write a Personal Narrative, How-To Essay, Friendly
Letter, Research Report, Persuasive Essay, and Descriptive Paragraph supporting ideas with
details and using punctuation and capitalization correctly.
7. Students are to write their assignments daily in their student planner, that will be provided by
the Argos Community Schools. Parents are expected to look over this each day. Students
should be responsible in completing and returning homework assignments on the due date.
8. Students are to read at least 20 minutes each night, with the exception of Friday. Parents or
guardians need to sign student planner nightly.
9. Students are expected to follow the rules of the school; do what’s right, do your best, and treat
others the way you want to be treated. They are to be respectful, responsible, and ready to
learn.
FOURTH GRADE
1. Homework will be assigned nightly, Monday through Thursday. Homework is expected to be
completed for the next day of school.
2. Students are to read at least 20 minutes a night. (This DOES NOT include homework.)
3. Students’ assignments will be written out on weekly assignment sheets by the STUDENT.
Parents are expected to check these nightly.
4. Parents are expected to sign the reading slip nightly.
5. Students are to be respectful to all fellow classmates and adults in the building.
6. Students are expected to PASS at least four Challenge Reading books every nine weeks.
(These books are to have a Lexile between 740-940 or higher.) Challenge Reading Grading
Scale -0....A+ 100-98%- -1....B+ 89-87% -2....C+ 79-77% -3....D+ 69-67% -4....F 59-0%
FIFTH GRADE
1. Students are to be responsible for their own learning.
2. Students are to read each night, Monday through Thursday, for at least 20 minutes from their
quiz book. Parents are to sign the student’s reading slip nightly.
3. Students are to write out their assignments on a daily homework assignment sheet that will be
provided by the teacher. Parents are expected to look over the assignment sheet daily.
4. All homework assignments should be neat, complete, and turned in on time following the day
the work was assigned.
5. Any assignments turned in late will have 10% taken off from the initial percentage received.
6. Every nine weeks, students are expected to pass four quizzes in the Lexile range 830-1010.
Quiz Book Reading Scale -4....A+ 100-98% -3...C 79-77% -2....D 69-67% -1....F 59-0% -0.
SIXTH GRADE
Sixth grade is the last stepping stone before our students reach junior high. Therefore, our
classrooms function more like junior high rather than elementary classrooms. Our expectations
mimic junior high expectations so that our students are better prepared for the following year. Our
students experience lockers, switching classes by a bell system, and developing a whole new set
of responsibilities that will enable them to successfully transition from a preteen to an adult.
1. Assignments are due at the beginning of the each class period for each subject.
2. Penalty for late work.
3. Students are expected to be in their seat by the tardy bell.
4. Students are responsible for asking for make-up work at the beginning of each class.
5. Thirty minutes of independent reading and the completion of all homework are to be done at
home.
6. Assignment books are expected to be filled out completely for each subject. Students are
responsible for doing this and to have their parents sign it each night.
7. All necessary supplies are to be brought to each class every day. “Forgetting” materials in the
locker is unacceptable.
8. One folder will be used for all subjects together.
9. Any behaviors that are disruptive and inappropriate (talking out, disrespectful, not prepared for
class, etc.) will not be tolerated.
SIXTH GRADE STRIKE POLICY: 3 STRIKES, YOU’RE OUT
Students will receive a strike for the following reasons:
1. Incomplete, missing or late assignments.
2. Assignment book not filled out or signed.
3. Tardy to any class.
4. Disruptive or disrespectful behavior.
5. Not prepared for class (missing the following: pencil, paper, textbook, folder, steno book, etc.)
6. Any act of bullying receives an automatic OUT.
If the student receives less than three strikes in one week, they are erased as we start a new week.
If a student receives three or more strikes, he/she “strikes out” and is required to spend 30 minutes
after school on the following Thursday, or any day deemed necessary due to teacher conflict. (3
strikes = 30 min., 6 strikes = 1 hour, etc.)
Parents will be informed by letter at the end of each week if their student has struck out.
ACADEMICS - JR. SR. HIGH
AWARDS
1. AMERICAN LEGION AWARD: Awards are given to a boy and girl in the eighth and twelfth
grades.
2. HIGH HONOR ROLL AND HONOR ROLL
An Honor Roll and High Honor Roll based on nine-week grades will be published at the end of
each grading period. Also, a semester Honor Roll and High Honor Roll based only on semester
grades will be published after each semester.
An Incomplete in any subject will cause ineligibility for both High Honor Roll and Honor Roll.
To be eligible for the Honor Roll, students must meet the following requirements:
• Receive no grades less than a “B-” and at least a “C” in Physical Education
• Take a minimum of five (5) course/credits.
To be eligible for the High Honor Roll, students must meet the following requirements:
• Receive no grade less than an “A-” in all subject areas.
• Take a minimum of five (5) course/credits.
3. 100% HONOR ROLL – Awards presented at awards program.
4. PERFECT ATTENDANCE CERTIFICATES will be given with last report card. A student will
qualify for perfect attendance with no absences for all class periods during the school year. All
absences count against perfect attendance EXCEPT field trips, testing days and college visits.
5. SENIOR AWARDS NIGHT
This special night is held during the month of May. Scholarship winners, athletic and special
academic honors are presented on this night.
6. ARGOS ACADEMIC LETTER
Students will be able to earn an academic letter based on the following criteria:
• Students will qualify after three (3) semesters of High School (grades 10-12)
• Student must possess a 3.33 GPA
• Qualification does not need to be consecutive.
Students will receive an “Academic A” patch on their first qualification and a chevron for each
additional semester they qualify. These will be distributed each semester after report cards
are available.
CORRESPONDENCE /DISTANCE/ON-LINE LEARNING COURSES
Correspondence courses will be allowed on a case-by-case basis with approval in writing by the
parent, guidance counselor and principal. Tests must be arranged through the guidance
department. Seniors must have the course completed by May 1st.
COURSE AUDITING
To audit a course is to attend class regularly, do required assignments and tests, be graded as if it
were a course for credit, but receive no credit for the course.
There are situations in which a student may want to consider auditing a course:
1. A student may pass the first semester of a two-semester course and fail the second semester.
The first semester may be audited in order to build up background of the subject matter in
order to increase the chance of success in the second semester.
2. A student may be pursuing the Academic Honors Diploma which has a stipulation that course
will not be counted towards this plan if a grade of lower than a “C-” is earned. If this should
occur, the student may repeat the class in order to meet the qualifications for the Academic
Honors Diploma. The higher grade earned for a class that is audited will be counted toward the
grade point average. No additional credits will be earned. Permission to audit a class must be
given by the guidance counselor and the principal. A class which is being audited cannot be
counted towards I.H.S.A.A. athletic eligibility. (See I.H.S.A.A. rule 18-1.5 for further
information.)
3. Classes that can be audited are available to help students academically, but students may not
audit an elective class on a part-time basis (i.e. choir) and leave an academic class to do so.
4. The transcript grade will reflect the audit grade for the class
COURSE WAIVERS
Physical Education I and II Credits PE Waiver
Program and Requirements:
1. One (1) PE Credit will be given for a complete season of any school-sponsored
IHSAA-sanctioned sport and cheerleading.
2. You can earn a maximum of 2 PE credits, with two (2) sports or the same sport two (2) years.
3. Retroactive credits will not be awarded. It is the student’s responsibility to get the form
completed and turned in after completing the activity.
4. A complete season is defined as: First practice to final event. The student must remain on
the active roster the entire season and in good standing.
5. Disciplinary suspensions from the team or activity will result in forfeiture of credit as determined
by the coach.
6. At the conclusion of the season, the coach will validate completion of the waiver form.
7. The form must be completed and turned into the guidance office within two (2) weeks of the
end of the participation in the particular season.
8. A grade of “A” will be granted to all students who meet the requirements.
9. Both PE I and PE II credits must be earned by the end of the sophomore year.
Consideration will be made for older students transferring.
DUAL CREDIT & ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) COURSES
Argos High School offers the following Dual Credit and Advanced Placement courses that will earn
weighted grades:
Dual Credit Courses -- Advanced Speech;
Advanced Placement Courses -- Biology, Calculus, English Language & Composition, English
Literature, Chemistry, Physics, Spanish, Statistics and U.S. History.
FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENTS
FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENT INFORMATION Foreign exchange students are welcome to
attend and study at Argos Jr. - Sr. High School provided their sponsoring organization is approved
by the United States Department of State and the Indiana Department of Education. The
sponsoring organization also must abide by the regulations for foreign exchange students set forth
by the Indiana Department of Education.
As stated in the DOE rules, the Argos Jr. - Sr. High School principal must give permission for a
foreign exchange student to attend AHS prior to the student’s arrival. It is suggested that the
principal’s permission be obtained no later than August 1st of the year that the student will enroll as
an AHS student.
Foreign exchange students will be classified an HONORARY MEMBER of the Argos High
School senior class, provided they are here all year, and they will be eligible to participate in
all senior activities. They will also be allowed to participate in the Commencement program;
however, the foreign exchange student will receive only an HONORARY Argos High School
Diploma.
REPORT CARD GRADES/MIDTERMS
THE DEFAULT GRADING SYSTEM IS AS FOLLOWS:
ACADEMICS - JR./SR. HIGH SCHOOL
Letter Grade
% Equivalent
Letter Grade
% Equivalent
A+
100-98
C+
79-77
A
97-93
C
76-73
A-
92-90
C-
72-70
B+
89-87
D+
69-67
B
86-83
D
66-63
B-
82-80
D-
62-60
F
59-0
EACH TEACHER MAY HAVE HIS/HER OWN CUSTOM GRADING SCALE.
GRADING SYSTEM
The semester grade shall be determined by adding the point value of each of the two (2) nine-week
grades to the point value of the final examination grade. Each nine-week grade is worth 40% or
2/5ths and the final exam is worth 20% or 1/5th of the semester grade.
In determining the nine-week grades, final exam grades and semester grades the following point
values shall be assigned.
A+ = 4.33 GRADE POINT INDEX
A = 4.0 A+ at least 4.16
A- = 3.67 A 3.83 – 4.15
B+ = 3.33 A- 3.49 – 3.82
B = 3.0 B+ 3.16 – 3.48
B- = 2.67 B 2.83 – 3.15
C+ = 2.33 B- 2.49 – 2.82
C = 2.0 C+ 2.16 – 2.48
C- = 1.67 C 1.83 – 2.15
D+ = 1.33 C- 1.49 – 1.82
D = 1.0 D+ 1.16 – 1.48
D- = 0.67 D 0.83 – 1.15
F = 0 D- 0.33 – 0.82
F Less than 0.33
To receive a passing grade for the semester the student must:
1. Be in good standing in the class at the close of the semester;
2. Have a minimum of a D- as the semester grade and pass two (2) of the three (3) grades listed
for the semester.
This method of determining final grades for the semester provides for a consistent pattern yet
maintains the integrity of teachers’ decisions through an element of flexibility.
GRADING – WEIGHTED GRADES
Argos High School offers Advanced Placement Courses that will earn weighted grades. These
courses will receive a one point higher value than all other courses. Grades will be weighted in the
classroom, the weighted grade will appear on the transcript and in skyward as the final grade, not
two separate grades.
The values will be:
A+ = 5.33 B+ = 4.33 C+ = 3.33 D+ = 2.33 F = 0
A = 5.0 B = 4.0 C = 3.0 D = 2.0
A- = 4.67 B- = 3.67 C- = 2.67 D- = 1.67
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Graduation Curricula Plans and Career Cluster Plans for High School
In order to graduate from Argos Community High School, a student must have received credit for a
minimum of forty-three (43) credits of high school work in various areas. To be eligible for
graduation, a student, must have met all of the requirements outlined below by graduation year.
The student must also be in attendance the full school day for eight semesters. A student must be
scheduled in class (academic subject) for a minimum of six periods per day during all eight
semesters. A student may be scheduled for no more than one study hall per day. The following
activities may be substituted for a study hall, with special permission: tutoring, teacher assistant,
class assistant, cafeteria worker, office assistant, library helper, remedial work and special study
hall. Credits earned during summer are not to be used to reduce the minimum number of subjects
(classes) required during the school year(s). Students must be in good standing with the school
and fulfilled the Senior Class requirements for graduation.
There are four (4) diplomas: Core 40 with Academic Honors, Core 40 with Technical Honors, Core
40, and the General Diploma.
Core 40 with Academic Honors Diploma is an advanced plan awarded by the State of Indiana
with very specific requirements. The plan is designed for students with outstanding academic ability
that may plan to attend a post-secondary institution. To complete this plan a student must take
appropriate courses and earn forty-eight (48) credits.
a. Required courses include:
(1)English/Language Arts……………………………………………………………….8 credits
English 9 - 2 credits
English 10 - 2 credits
English 11 - or AP English Language and Composition - 2 credits
Advanced Composition/Genres of Literature (English 12) or AP English Literature - 2
credits
(2)Mathematics……………………………………………………………………………..6 credits
Algebra I - 2 credits (If taken in 8th grade, must take additional level)
Geometry - 2 credits
Algebra II - 2 credits
Pre-Calculus – 2 credits
AP Calculus AB– 2 credits
AP Statistics – 2 credits
(3)Science………………………………………………………………………………….. 6 credits
Biology I – 2 credits
Chemistry - 2 credits
Anatomy & Physiology - 2 credits (offered every other year)
Forensic Science - 2 credits (offered every other year)
Advanced Life Science Animals - 2 credits
Physics - 2 credits
AP Physics - 2 credits (Offered starting in 2018-19)
AP Biology - 2 credits
(4)Social Studies…………………………………………………………………………...6 credits
World History OR Geography & History of the World – 2 credits
U.S. History OR AP U.S. History - 2 credits
U.S. Government - 1 credit
Economics - 1 credit
(5)World Languages……………………………………………………………………. 6-8 credits
Spanish I - 2 credits
Spanish II - 2 credits
Spanish III - 2 credits
AP Spanish (optional) - 2 credits
(6)Fine Arts (Art, Band, Chorus, Visual Arts, Music History/Appreciation)............... 2 credits
(7)Health & Wellness OR Three (3) qualifying FACS classes………………………….1 credit
(8)Physical Education…………………………………………………………………….. 2 credits
(9)Interactive Media………………………………………………………………………....1 credit
(10)Other locally required courses may include, but are not limited to: Intro to Computer
Science, Consumer Economics, Human Development & Wellness, Interactive Media
TOTAL…………………………………………………………………………………….. 48 credits
(11)Additional Requirements-must include one of the following:
(a) Two Advanced Placement (AP) courses and exams
(b) 1200 or higher on the SAT Test (Critical Reading & Math)
(c) 26 or higher on the ACT Test
(d) Academic, transferable dual high school/college courses resulting in six
college credits
(e) One AP course and exam; and academic, transferable dual high school,
college courses resulting in three college credits
(f) International Baccalaureate Diploma (Currently NOT offered at Argos)
b. Additional Information
(1) Only courses in which a student has earned a grade of “C” or above may
count toward an Academic Honors Diploma. To be eligible for an Academic Honors
Diploma, a student must have a grade point average of a “B” (3.0) or above at the end of
their senior year.
(2) Must also pass the ISTEP+ in Math 10 and English 10
(3) Must be in good standing with the school and fulfilled the Senior Class
requirements for graduation.
Core 40 Diploma With Technical Honors Diploma is designed for students who think they may
eventually enter professions requiring a post-secondary education. To complete this plan a student
must take appropriate courses, and it is recommended they earn forty-eight (48) credits.
a. Required courses include:
(1)English…………………………………………………………………………………... 8 credits
English 9 - 2 credits
English 10 - 2 credits
English 11 - or AP English Language and Composition - 2 credits
English 12 Advanced Composition/Genres of Literature– 2 credits
OR AP English Literature - 2 credits
(2)Mathematics……………………………………………………………………………..6 credits
Algebra I - 2 credits (If taken in 8th grade, must take additional level)
Geometry - 2 credits
Algebra II - 2 credits
Pre-Calculus – 2 credits
AP Calculus AB– 2 credits
AP Statistics – 2 credits
(3)Science………………………………………………………………………………….. 6 credits
Biology I – 2 credits
Chemistry - 2 credits
Anatomy & Physiology - 2 credits (offered every other year)
Forensic Science - 2 credits (offered every other year)
Advanced Life Science Animals - 2 credits
Physics - 2 credits
AP Physics - 2 credits (Offered starting in 2018-19)
AP Biology - 2 credits
(4)Social Studies…………………………………………………………………………...6 credits
World History OR Geography & History of the World – 2 credits
U.S. History OR AP U.S. History - 2 credits
U.S. Government - 1 credit
Economics - 1 credit
(5 )Physical Education…………………………………………………………………….2 credits
(6 )Health & Wellness OR Three (3) qualifying FACS classes………………………..1 credit
(7 )Other locally required courses may include, but are not limited to: Intro to Computer
Science, Consumer Economics, Human Development & Wellness, Interactive Media
(8)Direct Electives………………………………………………………………………….8 credits
World Languages
*Spanish I-III, AP Spanish
Fine Arts
*Band, Chorus, Visual Arts, Music History/Appreciation
(9)Career/Technical Program………………………………………………………..8-10 credits
*Must receive a state recognized certificate
(10)Additional Information
*Only courses in which a student has earned a grade of “C” or above may count
towards a Technical Honors Diploma
*Must also pass the ISTEP+ in Math 10 and English 10
*Must be in good standing with the school and fulfilled the Senior Class requirements for
graduation
Core 40 Diploma is designed for all students who graduate in Indiana. To complete this plan a
student must take appropriate courses and the student must earn forty-seven (47) credits.
a. Required courses include:
(1)English/Language Arts………………………………………………………………....8 credits
English 9 - 2 credits
English 10 - 2 credits
English 11 OR AP English Language & Composition - 2 credits
English 12 Advanced Composition/Genres of Literature OR
AP English Literature – 2 credits
(2)Mathematics…………………………………………………………………………..6-8 credits
Algebra I - 2 credits
Geometry - 2 credits
Algebra II - 2 credits
Pre-Calculus – 2 credits
AP Calculus AB – 2 credits
AP Statistics – 2 credits
(3)Science………………………………………………………………………………….. 6 credits
Biology I - 2 credits
Chemistry - 2 credits
Environmental Science-2 credits
Anatomy & Physiology -2 credits
Forensic Science - 2 credits (offered every other year)
Advanced Life Science Animals - 2 credits
Physics - 2 credits
AP Physics - 2 credits (offered starting in 2018-19)
AP Biology - 2 credits
(4)Social Studies…………………………………………………………………………...6 credits
World History OR
Geography & History of the World – 2 credits
U.S. History OR AP History – 2 credits
U.S. Government - 1 credit
Economics - 1 credit
(5)World Languages……………………………………………………………………. 6-8 credits
Spanish I - 2 credits
Spanish II - 2 credits
Spanish III - 2 credits
AP Spanish (optional) - 2 credits
(6)Health & Wellness …………………………………………………………………..1 credit
OR three (3) qualifying FACS classes
(7)Physical Education ………………………………………………………………….... 2 credits
(8)Other locally required courses may include, but are not limited to: Intro to Computer
Science, Consumer Economics, Human Development & Wellness, Interactive Media
(9)Direct Electives………………………………………………………………………….8 credits
World Languages
Fine Arts
*Band, Chorus, Visual Arts, Music History/Appreciation
Career/Technical
Computers/Business
(10)Electives (Career Academic Sequence is recommended).............................8-10 credits
(11)Must also pass the ISTEP+ in Math 10 and English 10
(12)Must be in good standing with the school and fulfilled the Senior Class requirements
for graduation
General Diploma is for students who do not meet the requirements of any of the other plans. It is
not to be a first choice for a student, but is a last recourse in the event a student, for whatever
reason, is unable to complete their original plan and is unable to switch to another of the curricular
plans. This is called “Opting Out”. “Opting Out” requires a meeting held and signatures of the
student, parents, guidance counselor, and principal. To complete this plan a student must take
appropriate courses and earn forty-three (43) credits.
a. Required courses include:
(1)English…………………………………………………………………………………... 8 credits
(2)Mathematics (must include Algebra I)...................................................................4 credits
(3)Science (includes Biology I, Envir. Science or Int. Chemistry-Physics
Or Advanced Animal Science)...................................................................................4 credits
(4)Social Studies (includes US History, Government, Economics)...........................4 credits
(5)Physical Education……………………………………………………………………..2 credits
(6)Health & Wellness………………………………………………………………………..1 credit
(7)Electives……………………………………………………………………………….. 17 credits
TOTAL……………………………………………………………………………………..43 credits
b. Additional Information
(1)A passing grade of D- or above is required in all course work
(2)Must also pass the ISTEP+ graduation exams (English and Math)
(3)Must be in good standing with the school and fulfilled the Senior Class requirements for
graduation.
*IF A STUDENT WOULD LIKE TO GRADUATE AFTER SEVEN SEMESTERS
(MID-TERM OF SENIOR YEAR, HE OR SHE MAY DO SO IF THE FOLLOWING
REQUIREMENTS ARE MET:
1. THE STUDENT MEETS WITH THE COUNSELOR PRIOR TO THE END OF THEIR JUNIOR YEAR.
2. THE REQUIRED APPLICATION IS FILLED OUT ENTIRELY.
3. THE PRINCIPAL APPROVES THE APPLICATION.
BEGINNING WITH THE CLASS OF 2016
In November 2011, the State Board of Education passed the new graduation requirements.
• Core 40, Academic Honors (AHD), and Technical Honors (THD) diplomas: Students must
enroll in a mathematics course or quantitative reasoning course each year they are enrolled in
high school.
• General Diploma: Students must earn two (2) credits in a mathematics course or a
quantitative reasoning course during their junior or senior year.
• Quantitative Reasoning Course: A high school course that “advances a student’s ability to
apply mathematics in real world situations and contexts” and that “deepens a student’s
understanding of high school mathematics standards.”
• The Indiana Department of Education will provide an annual review to determine the high
school courses that meet these criteria.
Argos High School currently offers the following courses that meet the description prescribed for
quantitative reasoning:
► All math classes
► AP Biology
► Advanced Life Science Animals
► Chemistry
► Economics
GRADUATION EXAMINATION, CLASSES 2018
All students will be required to pass the End of Course Assessment (ECA) in English 10 and
Algebra I or qualify for an Evidence Based Waiver (EBW).
GRADUATION EXAMINATION, CLASS 0F 2019 AND BEYOND
All students will be required to pass the Grade 10 ISTEP+ tests which consist of Mathematics and
English tests administered at the end of Grade 10 or qualify for an EBW.
EVIDENCE BASED WAIVER
A student who does not receive a passing score on the graduation examination may be eligible to
graduate if all of the following have occurred:
1. The student must take the graduation examination in the subject area or subject areas in which
the student did not achieve a passing score at least one (1) time every school year after the
school year in which the student first takes the examination. The student may take the
examination once every semester beginning with the school year after the school year in which
the student first takes the examination.
2. The student must complete remediation opportunities provided by the school.
3. The student must maintain a minimum attendance rate of ninety-five percent (95%).
4. The student must maintain a “C” average in the courses comprising the twenty-two (22) credits
specifically required for graduation in 511 IAC 6-7-6.
5. The student must obtain a written recommendation supporting a request for a waiver from a
teacher of the subject area or subject areas in which the student has not achieved a passing
score. The principal must concur with the recommendation. The recommendation must be
supported by written evidence that the student has attained the educational proficiency
standard in the subject area or subject areas based upon:
a. tests other than the graduation examination; or
b. classroom work.
6. The student must satisfy all other state and local graduation requirements.
For a student who receives special services under 511 IAC 7:
1. The student’s teacher of record, as defined in 511 IAC 7-3-50, in consultation with a
teacher of the student in the subject area or subject areas in which the student has not
achieved a passing score, shall make the recommendation required in section 5 above,
and
2. The student’s case conference committee shall:
a. Decide how frequently the student will take the graduation examination,
within the limitations stated above and
b. Determine if the student has met the criteria as stated above.
Except as stated above, no student shall be denied the opportunity to take the graduation
examination once every semester beginning with the school year after the school year in which the
student first takes the examination.
E-LEARNING DAYS HOMEWORK POLICY
Argos Community Schools has now instituted the adoption of the E-Learning day. E-Learning days
are placed among the school year calendar to allow professional development to our Teaching
Staff. We will also be utilizing E-learning days in place of weather related or other days in which
school is cancelled for unforeseen events. An E-Learning day is described as a day where
teachers will be available by email, but students will not report to school. Students must take
school issued student device home to complete school work for that day and to communicate with
their teachers. Students will have until the end of the next school day to turn in all completed
assignments. Assignments not completed or turned in by that time, will be given a zero.
HOMEWORK POLICY
The homework policy and consequences are left up to the individual classroom teacher. A copy of
the policy and consequences will be given to all students in the individual teacher’s classroom
rules. A copy will also be on file with the principal. All homework, class work, and answers on
exams must be in acceptable formal English language. Any work handed in for a grade will not be
accepted if completed in informal text such as used in text messaging. If homework is not up to
date, a student will not be allowed to attend field trips.
All homework, class work, and answers on exams must be in acceptable formal English
language. Any work handed in for a grade will not be accepted if completed in informal text
such as used in text messaging.
HOMEWORK RECOMMENDATIONS
Homework should be assigned to facilitate a better understanding of the subject matter. Homework
also provides an opportunity for students who perform poorly on tests and/or have poor test taking
skills to gain additional understanding of the material.
The student must accept individual responsibility for completion of work to be done outside of the
class, thereby, preparing the student for the types of responsibilities which will be encountered in
later life.
Parent Involvement
: Parents are encouraged to discuss and/or help students, short of actually
doing the work for them. Involvement of parents, in supervision of and aiding in assignments, can
bring about an understanding by the parents of classroom activities and subject matter.
Evaluation of homework assignments
: Homework should be used as a “tool” in an evaluation of
the progress of the student. It is not felt that homework assignments should necessarily be given a
letter grade, but in each case, whether graded or not, they must be stressed as an integral part of
the learning process. It is recommended that assignments, which are evaluated by the teacher, be
returned as soon as possible.
Parent, student and teacher responsibilities
: Parents cannot be held responsible for their student’s
assignments, but should provide a positive atmosphere for learning. This promotes understanding,
stresses importance, and is conducive to completing assignments.
Teachers are responsible for assigning meaningful work, with some expected carry-over value.
The teacher also is responsible for attempting to make sure the student has a clear understanding
of the assignments.
The final responsibility for learning ultimately rests with the student. He or she must provide the
energy and the attitude, which will carry through experiences as a student and citizen. Teachers,
with the aid of parents, must provide the motivation and the challenge to stimulate students. These
ingredients are vital to the continued success of the educational process and in developing youth
into contributing, responsible citizens.
INCOMPLETE GRADES
All incomplete grades are to be completed no later than ten (10) days from the end of the grading
period, unless the administration extends this time frame for legitimate reasons. Any grades not
completed by this time, will become “F’s”. All incompletes will count as “F’s” until they are made up.
PROMOTION/RETENTION - JUNIOR HIGH
A rubric will be used to determine promotion/retention for junior high students. The rubric is based
on grades in academic courses, ISTEP scores, attendance including tardies, and age. A retention
committee will meet to review the rubric scores. Using the rubric and staff input, the retention
committee will make the final decision regarding individual student promotion/retention.
REWARD TRIP REQUIREMENTS – JR. HIGH
Students will be expected to meet the following requirements to be eligible for the end of the year
reward trip and subsequent junior high rewards activities during the school year.
Tardies
• no more than 3 before the fall activity
• no more than 3 new tardies before the winter activity
• no more than 2 new tardies before the spring activity
Behavior
• NO behavior referrals
• NO Out of School Suspensions (OSS) referrals
Failing grades
• No more than 1 F on report card (nine week and semester average grades only; semester
exams are exempt.)
Fundraiser
• MUST participate in the junior high fundraiser by selling goal amount or pay a fee of up to$
40.00* to cover the cost of the trip.
• *Due to rising costs of these activities, a dollar amount can’t be established at this time, and
ALL students may still need to pay a minimal fee for the May trip depending on the success of
the fundraiser.
Teacher/Principal Input
• Teachers can deny or add a student if agreed upon by the junior high teachers
• Principal has final approval/disapproval
SCHEDULE CHANGES
It is the philosophy of Argos High School to help every student develop a program that will provide
maximum educational opportunity and development. Students will receive help from the guidance
and teaching staff in developing their programs. Opportunity to change a schedule is provided
should educational goals change. When a semester begins, it is important that the educational
process of the classroom be protected from interruption by student withdrawals from one class and
entries to another. In those situations where a student wants to withdraw from class, the student
may request a program change through use of Request for Schedule Change available in the
office.
Students will have 5 school days to make an adjustment without loss of credit for the semester.
Leveling or correct placement of students will be handled at the discretion of all parties involved.
These changes may be made up to 5 school days after the beginning of the semester.
There will be no refund made from original fees. However, if the new class results in higher fees,
the difference will be paid.
Before officially dropping a class, the student must have the approval of the teacher, parents,
counselor and principal.
All students must be enrolled in six (6) subjects unless deemed otherwise by the principal and
guidance department.
All adjustments in fees, pertaining to schedule changes, must be made immediately.
AT SEMESTER: Only students failing an assigned class or by teacher recommendation may
request to drop a class. The student must have principal approval in order for the class
change to occur.
Near the end of the second semester students will be given a copy of their schedules for the
following school year. The guidance department will set a five-day period for students to make
schedule changes.
Once this date has passed, there are only a few acceptable reasons to allow a schedule change to
occur. These are
1) A student has failed a class and needs to repeat it, or cannot move to the next level without
passing the class.
2) There has been an error made in the master schedule that requires a student to be
rescheduled.
3) A student wishes to drop a study hall and add a class.
4) A teacher feels that a student is not capable of completing the work in the class and has been
misplaced.
NOTE: No change will be permitted that overloads the enrollment of another class.
SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID
Scholarships are awarded to various seniors each year. Scholarships will be posted under Google
Classroom. Students are responsible for completing scholarship applications and getting them
submitted, unless otherwise instructed by the guidance counselor. Local scholarships are awarded
each spring through the Argos Dollars for Scholars Organization. A financial aid night for seniors is
held every January to explain all aspects of financial aid and guide families through the FAFSA
requirements.
SENIOR CLASS REQUIREMENTS
Seniors will complete and turn in the the following items to their senior class sponsor. Students
who do not complete the requirements listed below will not be allowed to participate in graduation
ceremonies.
1. References Letters - three (3) required. Reference letters are due on or before the last day of
the first semester (December 21st, 2018)
2. Community Service - 10 hours required at a not for profit organization -- Due the Monday after
spring break (April 8, 2019).
VOCATIONAL CLASSES - REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION
Argos Jr/Sr. High School offers a wide variety of vocational classes outside the walls of the high
school. Due to the expense and limited availability of enrollment spaces, the following criteria have
been established to determine eligibility.
• Must be a junior or senior in high school
• Administrative approval.
• Fits into the student’s four (4) year plan.
Transportation is the responsibility of the student and/or his or her parent/guardian.
ATHLETICS
ATHLETIC PHILOSOPHY
Athletics at Argos Jr./Sr. High School are a part of the extracurricular program offered to the
students to enhance the total school experience. Athletics creates learning experiences in
citizenship, leadership, cooperation, and loyalty above and beyond those offered through the
regular education program. Emphasis is placed on developing the individual physically, mentally,
and socially by providing wholesome competition with appropriate equipment and facilities.
Students involved in athletics participate voluntarily, and the opportunity to participate is a privilege.
In accepting that privilege, students and parents accept the responsibility that comes with
representing our school and community. This responsibility places the student in a model
citizenship role concerning his/her behavior in and out of school all year round.
Proper administration of the athletic program is essential to insure the well-being of the athlete and
to maintain a productive and wholesome program. The high school principal, athletic director and
coaching staff administer the program within the policies and guidelines of the Indiana High School
Athletic Association (IHSAA) and the Argos Community School Corporation. In addition, each
coach has specific rules guiding their program. Athletes who willingly submit to them are better
prepared for similar settings in life.
ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY
To be academically eligible to participate in athletics, a student must be enrolled in five (5) full
credit courses. The student must also have passed five (5) full credit courses the previous grading
period (semester grades take precedence). All incoming freshmen begin high school eligible.
Students who miss part of the school day and are home due to illness must be in
attendance for four (4) class periods in order to participate in athletic practices or contests.
Students must arrive no later than 11 A.M. This relates to students who are home sick, not
to appointments, funerals, etc.
The Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) requires students to receive a physical
examination administered by a licensed physician. A record of this physical examination must be
kept on file in the athletic department. State law requires information about concussions and
cardiac arrest be given to high school students, and that parents and students acknowledge receipt
of the information.
Parents or guardians must complete the insurance section of the IHSAA physical examination
form. A signed statement of insurance coverage on the part of the student’s parent or guardian
shall be a prerequisite for student participation in any school activity having a potential for personal
injury.
ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT
As role models and representatives of our school and community, student-athletes have a
year-round responsibility. Athletes will cooperate with and follow the directions of the coach. They
will conduct themselves as good citizens at all times and honor all curfews. They will refrain from
possessing, providing to another person, being under the influence of, or using any substance
which is controlled or contains, but not limited to: tobacco, e-cigarettes, vaping, snuff, steroids,
alcohol, a stimulant, an intoxicant, a narcotic, a depressant, a hallucinogen, or a mood altering drug
whether prescription or sold over the counter (without a prescription) or any substance represented
by the provider to be any of the listed substance. Athletes also must avoid being present where
others are involved with the above-mentioned items.
Violations of the guidelines listed above and violations of any law (except minor traffic violations),
corporation policy, school rules, and standards imposed by the coaches are subject to disciplinary
action.
CODE OF CONDUCT DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
Students who violate the Athletic Code of Conduct will be subject to disciplinary action. A coach or
the athletic director must confront the athlete concerning violations of the Athletic Code of Conduct.
If they determine the athlete has violated the code, they must inform the student of the disciplinary
action imposed for the violation.
The coach or the athletic director must make verbal or written contact with the athlete’s parent or
guardian within twenty-four (24) hours from the time the athlete was informed that disciplinary
action will be taken. If the parent or guardian desires a meeting with the coach or athletic director, a
meeting will be arranged as soon as possible concerning the situation.
The parent or guardian may appeal the disciplinary action with 72 hours of the action to the appeal
board. The appeal must be submitted in writing to the Athletic Director. The appeal board is the
Athletic Council. The appeal hearing should be conducted as quickly as possible after the appeal is
received.
For disciplinary action concerning the Athletic Code of Conduct a season consists of the scheduled
contests of a sport. The IHSAA definition of a contest will apply. Suspensions from athletics, which
result from violations of the Athletic Code of Conduct, will be served during an athlete’s established
sports seasons. Athletes will not be allowed to participate in a sport for which they have not truly
displayed interest in order to serve an athletic suspension.
Any athlete found to be possessing, providing to another person, being under the influence of, or
using any substance which is controlled or contains, but is not limited to: tobacco, e-cigarette,
vaping, snuff, steroids, alcohol, a stimulant, an intoxicant, a narcotic, a depressant, a hallucinogen,
or a mood altering drug whether prescription or sold over the counter (without a prescription) or any
substance represented by the provider to be any of the listed substances will be:
• First Offense: Suspended from competition for 50% of the season and must complete an
approved drug and alcohol assessment paid by the parent(s)/guardian(s). If the violation
occurs in less than the remaining 50% of the current season, the penalty will carry over into the
next season participation. An athlete must serve the suspension and complete the assessment
program in order to be reinstated in athletics. Completion of the program must be on file with
the Athletic Director before reinstatement.
• Second Offense: Suspended from athletic competition for one calendar year from the date of
disciplinary action.
• Third Offense: Permanently excluded from athletics.
Disciplinary actions for violations will be administered on an individual basis by the coach and the
athletic director. Disciplinary actions will be fair and consistent with the degree and severity of the
violation.
Student athletes may take advantage of a self-referral procedure in regards to use of tobacco,
e-cigarettes, vaping, alcohol, and other drugs. Athletes are allowed one (1) referral in a four-year
high school career prior to their First Violation. The self-referral must be made prior to being
identified as having violated a Code of Conduct rule. In such cases the student will serve a two (2)
game suspension and must complete an approved drug and alcohol assessment program at the
cost of the parent(s)/guardian(s). The self-referral may not be used after a First Offense.
ATHLETIC COUNCIL
The athletic council will establish athletic policy for the athletic program of the school system,
subject to the approval of the Board of Education. The Council members may include AHS Athletic
Director, Coaches, Jr. /Sr. Principal, and one teacher. Any additions or changes to the guidelines
set forth in the Argos Athletic Handbook may be done with the action and approval of the Argos
Athletic Council and Board of Education.
CONFLICT BETWEEN TWO (2) ACTIVITIES
Students are encouraged to participate in a wide range of school-sponsored activities which
enhance the academic, social, and emotional health of students and prepare them in many ways to
become positive citizens and people.
By providing guidelines, sponsors, students and parents will be able to resolve conflicts effectively.
Communication between sponsors, coaches, and students is essential. The following guidelines
serve to determine appropriate resolutions to conflicts that may occur:
• Scheduled State Athletic Association Tournaments and State Association Divisions of Student
Activities Contests, including travel time, shall have preference. If a conflict exists between two
of these types of activities, the student shall make the choice without penalty.
• Regularly scheduled games and major performances beyond those above shall be second
priority. If a conflict exists between two of these activities, the student shall make the choice
without penalty.
• The importance of the student’s participation in the success of the total group’s performances
is the third priority. This shall be determined with the help of the sponsors.
• A previously scheduled event will take precedence over a rescheduled event.
• Regularly scheduled games, performances, and activities will take precedence over practices.
• No penalty will be assessed to the student participant if he or she properly communicates the
decision to all parties. Any penalty assessed must be done with the approval of the principal.
Students are responsible for studying the schedules of their various activities and working out
conflicts well in advance.
RANDOM DRUG TESTING
Argos Community Schools participates in random drug testing of students and athletes. Athletes
must agree to participate in this program in order to participate in athletics.
If an athlete is involved in cheating on a drug test, he/she will be suspended from athletics for one
calendar year from the date of discovery.
If an athlete tests positive in any random drug test administered by AHS, the Athletic Code of
Conduct Disciplinary Actions will apply.
RETENTION AND RED-SHIRTING
The Argos Community Schools recognizes that participation in interscholastic athletics is a
privilege and not a right. Fair competition and safety of participants are prime concerns of this
school corporation.
The Argos Community Schools does not allow the retention of any student who has successfully
completed any grade, except upon the recommendation of the appropriate school personnel.
Should any student, who has successfully completed the sixth grade, repeat any grade for reasons
other than academic failure in circumvention of this policy, s/he will lose his/her last year of
eligibility in high school athletics. The school board reserves the right to waive this rule for hardship
cases. Such waiver will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Legal Reference: 511 IAC 6.1-5-10.
INTENT TO WARN
By the very nature of the athletic activity, participants are at risk of physical injury. While taking
proper precautions may reduce risks, such risks can never be eliminated. Participation in athletics
authorized by the IHSAA and offered at Argos Elementary and Argos Jr. /Sr. High School could
result in a catastrophic injury to the participant. All injuries incurred during official practice or
scheduled contests must be reported in writing to the coach and recorded in the athletic
office. If a doctor directs a student to refrain from participation, then a doctor’s note is needed to
return to athletic participation.
ATHLETIC TEAMS OFFERED
• Fall- Boys Cross Country & Soccer, Girls Cross Country, Volleyball & Soccer (Grades 7-12)
• Winter- Boys basketball, Girls basketball (Grades 5-12) & cheerleading
• Spring- Boys baseball, Girls softball
AWARDS - GRADES 7-12
Awards presented to athletes by the Argos Athletic Department are to be worn or displayed by the
athlete earning the award. All letters, numerals, pins, and chevrons should be worn on the official
school jacket.
Certificate: Presented to the athlete who completes a season of competition. This is the only
award for junior high students.
Graduation Numerals: Presented to the athlete who completes a first season of competition in
any sport at the high school level.
Gold Sport Pin: Presented to those athletes after their first season in that sport..
Varsity Letter ‘A’: Presented to athletes who complete the requirements below:
Baseball & Softball: participate in 50% of contests
Basketball: participate in 25% of quarters offered
Cheerleading: meet 90% of practice and contest requirements
Cross Country: finish in the top 7 in 50% of meets
Soccer: participate in 50% of halves offered
Volleyball: participate in 33% of sets offered (there are up to 5 sets per match)
Managers: meet 90% of practice and contest requirements
Coach waives requirement
Chevron: Presented each time a varsity letter is earned. A sport-specific chevron is given for the
first varsity letter in a sport, with subsequent letters earning the regular chevron.
Captain Star: Awarded to varsity team captains
4-Year Plaque: Presented to athletes who earn four (4) varsity letters in one sport.
“A” Award: Presented to seniors who earn eight (8) varsity letters.
Senior Blanket: Awarded to seniors who have participated in a total of ten (10) full seasons.
J.O. Thompson award: Awarded to boys’ outstanding senior athlete
Lion’s Club: Awarded to girls’ outstanding senior athlete
Patches: Presented to individual varsity athletes or varsity teams that win:
- Conference championship
- IHSAA championship (One (1) patch that includes all levels: Sectional, Regional, etc.)
- Bi-County championship
- All-State recognition (individual)
Team Picture: A team picture will be displayed when a team wins any of the following:
- Bi-County championship
- IHSAA championship (One (1) picture that includes all levels: Sectional, Regional, etc.)
Individual Picture: An individual picture will be displayed when an athlete has
- Qualified for the state finals as an individual
- Been named First Team All-State
Record Plaque/Award: Presented to the athlete setting a school, conference, or state record
SPECIAL AWARDS BY SPORT
Soccer
- Most Valuable Player
- Most Improved Player
- Mike Keller Mental Attitude Award (boys)
- Mental Attitude Award (girls)
- Offensive Dragon Award
- Defensive Dragon Award
Volleyball
- Most Valuable Player
- Most Improved Player
- Mental Attitude Award
Basketball
- Most Valuable Player
- Mental Attitude Award
- Best Free Throw %
- Most Rebounds
- Dragon Award- plus 25 at end of season (steals + assists + blocks – turnovers)
Baseball
- Most Valuable Player
- Most Improved Player
- Mental Attitude Award
- Offensive Dragon Award
- Defensive Dragon Award
Softball
- Most Valuable Player
- Most Improved Player
- Mental Attitude Award
- Offensive Dragon Award
- Defensive Dragon Award
Cheerleading
- Most Valuable Cheerleading Award
- Most Improved Cheerleader
- Sportsmanship Award
Cross Country
- Most Valuable Player
- One selection of Most Improved or Metal Attitude if there are enough runners to
compete as a team
FRESHMEN & JV AWARDS
- Up to two Dragon Awards can be given in each sport at the discretion of the coaching
staff of that sport. Coaches may choose from Most Improved, Mental Attitude, Offense,
Defense, etc. JV Awards will not include MVP.
- JV Awards will not be awarded to a player earning a varsity letter.
AWARDS PROGRAMS
There will be an awards program following the completion of the fall, winter, and spring seasons.
All uniforms and equipment must be turned in before awards are presented. Athletes are required
to attend the awards program or forfeit the awards they earned. Any athlete not able to attend the
awards program must be excused in advance by the coach or athletic director. The times and
dates of the programs will be determined by the coaching staff and athletic director towards the
end of their athletic season.
TICKET PRICES
The local School Board following the recommendations set forth by the Athletic Director will
establish admission price to athletic events.
Single Game Tickets
Adult
Student/Senior Citizen
Family
Varsity
$5.00
$4.00
$10.00
JV / Freshmen
$4.00
$3.00
$8.00
Junior High
$4.00
$3.00
$8.00
Elementary
$3.00
$2.00
$6.00
Tournament Prices May Differ
Season Pass
Adults
Senior Citizens
Student
Family
All Sports
(K-12)
$75.00
$65.00
$20.00
$150.00
Fall Sports
(K-12)
$45.00
$40.00
$20.00
$90.00
Winter Sports
(K-12)
$45.00
$40.00
$20.00
$90.00
Passes or discounted tickets are not accepted at any state-sponsored tournaments hosted at
Argos. In addition, season passes are not valid for local tournaments or invitational.
CHAIN OF COMMAND
All concerns and problems should be addressed to the appropriate people in this order. The
Athletic Department will make every attempt to address parent/player concerns that are brought to
our attention that follow the sequence below.
1. Head Coach
2. Athletic Director
3. Jr-Sr High Principal
4. Superintendent
5. School Board
ATTENDANCE
INTRODUCTION
The characteristics of punctuality and dependability are personal habits that are respected in our
society and are therefore part of the educational process. Regular attendance is essential for
success in school. Indiana Law (I.C. 20-33-2-6) states that students between the ages of 7 and 18
years old are required to attend school. Valid absences are personal illness, death in the
immediate family, exclusion by a doctor, or observance of religious holidays. Argos Community
Schools complies with Indiana state laws regarding attendance and has adopted policies
accordingly.
Any student who leaves the building must have prior permission. Violators will be considered
UNEXCUSED. All students shall sign in and out at the respective office, including vocational
students.Students must have the permission of a parent, legal guardian, or individual designated in
the event of an emergency before being released.
IC 20-33-2-18 Parent to produce certificate of child’s incapacity on demand
If a parent of a student does not send the student to school because of the student’s illness or
mental or physical incapacity, it is unlawful for the parent to fail or refuse to produce a certificate of
the illness or incapacity for an attendance officer not later than six (6) days after the certificate is
demanded. The certificate required under this section must be signed by (1) an Indiana physician;
(2) an individual holding a license to practice osteopathy or chiropractic in Indiana; or (3) a
Christian Science practitioner who resides in Indiana and is listed in the Christian Science Journal.
IC 20-33-2-28 Compulsory attendance for full term; duty of parent
It is unlawful for a parent to (1) fail; (2) neglect; or (3) refuse; to send the parent’s child to a public
school for the full term as required under this chapter unless the child is being provided with
instruction equivalent to that given in public schools.
IC 20-33-8-10 Disciplinary powers of principals
A principal may take action concerning the principal’s school or a school activity within the
principal’s jurisdiction that is reasonably necessary to carry out or prevent interference with an
educational function or school purposes. This allows a principal to write regulations that govern
student conduct.
IC 20-33-2-25 Habitual absence from school; report to juvenile intake officer or department
of child services
The superintendent or an attendance officer having jurisdiction shall report a child who is habitually
absent from school in violation of this chapter to an intake officer of the juvenile court or the
department of child services. The intake officer or the department of child services shall proceed in
accord with IC 31-30 through IC 31-40.
PROCEDURE TO REPORT AN ABSENCE
To report an absence, a student’s parent/guardian is asked to notify school officials by telephone
before 9 AM, by calling 574-892-5137 and selecting the attendance option. If a phone call was not
made, upon returning to school following an absence, a note written by the parent/guardian stating
the reason for the absence must be presented. Absences shall not be excused unless the
contact is made according to the school’s procedure.
Parent notes/calls will be accepted for a total of ten (10) days maximum per year.
ABSENCES – EXCUSED
EXCUSED ABSENCES: PARENT/GUARDIAN MAY EXCUSE UP TO TEN (10) ABSENCES PER
SCHOOL YEAR. STUDENTS MAY NOT BE PARENT EXCUSED MORE THAN TEN (10) TIMES.
Unexcused Absences will result in the use of parent excused absences and will be counted
toward the ten (10) allotted parent excused days.
EXCUSED ABSENCES are those absences recognized by state law or school policy:
• Student illness – reported by a parent or sent home by school nurse
• Death in the immediate family
• Quarantine by a physician or health department
• Students subpoenaed to appear in court as a witness in a judicial proceeding (I.C. 20-33-2-16)
• Religious holidays
• Election Worker or Legislative Page – Proper documentation required (I.C. 20-33-2-14, 15)
• Medical Appointments/Hospitalization/Surgery – verification slip required within 3 days.
Students are expected to attend school before and after appointments.
• Field trips or school-related activities, State Fair participation, College Visits
• Any other absence pre-approved by the attendance officer or the principal
Generally, ten (10) absences documented only by a parent note are allowed. Absences with
doctor’s or other appropriate documentation do not count toward the ten (10). As a result, it
is highly suggested that doctor’s/court notes be provided whenever possible.
Absences beyond the ten (10) parent/guardian excused absences in a school year that are
not accompanied by a written note from a physician will be considered truancies.
MAKE UP WORK FOR EXCUSED ABSENCES:
Classroom work can be made up for excused absences without penalty. It is the student’s
responsibility to ask each teacher for make up work. As a general rule, students will have one day
for each day’s absence to make up work for absences extending longer than one day. Requests
for homework will be taken, but may take 24 hours to collect. Parents and students may access
homework via Skyward Family access where possible.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES are those not recognized by the state or school policy:
• Failure to notify the school of the absence
• Leaving the school building without prior permission
• Absence without parental consent
• Exceeding the ten (10) parent note limit
• Fails to bring a note from parent/guardian upon returning to school
• Truancy
• Being absent, but being seen out later that day or evening
• Absent because of babysitting, help at home, farming
MAKE UP WORK FOR UNEXCUSED ABSENCES:
Work done for unexcused absences may be given no credit at the teacher’s discretion.
COLLEGE VISITS: High School students may take college visits with one (1) allowed for
sophomores and two (2) each for junior and seniors. Approval should be arranged with the
guidance department at least one week in advance, should be taken with a parent/guardian and
approved by the principal.
FINAL EXAMS
• Final Exams are scheduled for the last 3-4 days of each semester.
• Students are expected to be in attendance on these days to take exams.
• Students may not use parent excused days to miss finals. Students are expected to be
present in school the entire day during final exams.
EXTRA CURRICULAR
Students who miss part of the school day due to illness must be in attendance for four (4) class
periods in order to participate in school activities, athletics, extra-curricular activities, or work on the
same day, thus students should arrive by 11 am. Being absent on a Friday does not affect
Saturday participation.
VACATION DAYS Just as work has requirements regarding time off, and given the legal
requirements of school attendance, families are advised to schedule vacations outside of school
days as much as possible. In the event a student may leave with his/her parents for vacation, prior
arrangements should be made with the attendance officer or principal. The following apply:
1. Generally, five days are allowed for vacation, per school year.
2. Students should request assignments prior to leaving. The teacher will provide whatever is
possible before the vacation and the rest upon return, and will instruct the student on
completion requirements
3. The student will be permitted to complete all make-up work on minimum ratio of two days to
make up for each day missed (elementary), not to exceed 10 school days, and one day per
day missed for grades 7-12.
ACCUMULATION OF ABSENCES
Students with an unexcused absence may be assigned a 3-hour detention, which generally will be
served on Thursdays.
Students will be allowed to earn credits in courses with an allowable limit of ten (10) absences in a
given semester.
A student with an illness which requires more than 10 absences in one semester must submit a
physician’s statement of incapacity (IC 20-33-2-18) explaining the illness to the administration or
school nurse at the beginning of the school year or immediately after the illness has been
diagnosed in order to be waived from the ten (10) day limit.
Letters will be sent upon a student having five (5) and seven (7) full day absences and parents may
be advised of a mandatory meeting concerning their student.
Students who miss ten (10) or more absences in a class risk losing credit, and the student may be
given and “F” and removed from the course. A student who does not have ten (10) full days of
absences, but misses first hour, for example, ten (10) times or more, would be considered for this
consequence.
Chronic absenteeism includes students absent from school for ten percent (10%) or more of a
school year, and such cases will be referred to the Marshall County Prosecuting Attorney’s office.
Students who have 12 unexcused class periods per semester may be put on a Form 16A with a
request of expulsion on the next unexcused absence from school.
TARDIES
Late to School. Students late to school, prior to 8:20 am, will be marked tardy. Those arriving
after 8:20 am will be counted absent first hour and be assigned a detention to make up the time.
Excused tardies will be those due to late bus arrivals or doctor’s appointments. If a student elects
to arrange transportation to school other than by the bus, the student assumes responsibility for
arriving to school on time. Parent contact for a student being tardy, while appreciated, does not
result in the tardy being excused.
Late to Class. As a general rule,. Students should be in their seats when the bell rings. Students
who are marked “tardy” for a particular class hour will be verbally notified by the teacher that they
are being marked as such.
Excessive Tardies
# of TARDIES OUTCOME
4-7 One (1) hour detention
8-9 Three (3) hour detention
10+ Penalties may include 1 day Out of School Suspension (OSS), 3 days OSS,
loss
of privileges to participate in extra-curricular activities or attend social events
(dances, ball games, etc.), possible parent attendance required, loss of credit
or
expulsion.
MOTOR VEHICLE HABITUAL TRUANCY LAW (I.C. 20-33-2-11)
The denial of a learner’s permit or driver’s license and the invalidation of the permit or license by
the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is authorized under Indiana law, which requires school boards
to adopt and include as a part of its written rules and standards a definition of “habitual truant”. The
term “habitual truant” is hereby defined as a student who is chronically absent, by having
unexcused absences from school for more than ten (10) days of school in one (1) school year.
Notwithstanding IC 9-24 concerning the minimum requirements for qualifying for the issuance of an
operator’s license or learner’s permit, and subject to the following:
1. A person who is, at least thirteen (13) years of age but less than fifteen (15) years of age;
2. A habitual truant definition has been established by the school board (see above); and
3. Identified in a list submitted to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles; may not be issued an operator’s
license or a learner’s permit to drive a motor vehicle or motorcycle under IC 9-24 until the
person is at least eighteen (18) years of age.
CHANGE OF RESIDENCE
All changes in residence and/or telephone numbers must be reported to the high school office.
WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL (I.C. 20-33-2-4 TO 20-33-2-9)
Any student who is at least sixteen (16) years of age, but is not yet eighteen (18) years of age, may
withdraw from school prior to graduation after an exit interview with the student’s parent or
guardian is conducted with the principal. HEA1347 specifies a student younger than 18 may
receive permission to drop-out of high school only for financial or health reasons or with the
permission of a court. The school shall give notice, by certified mail, or personal delivery to the
student, the student’s parent, or the student’s guardian that the student’s failure to attend an exit
interview or reference to school if the student does not meet the requirements to withdraw from
school will result in the revocation or denial of the student’s’ driver’s license or learner’s permit, and
employment certificate. During the exit interview, the school principal shall provide to the student
and the student’s parent a copy of statistics concerning the likely consequences of life without a
high school diploma.
The student must return all books, library books, instructional materials and school issued student
device, charger and protective case, checked out to him/her and clear all financial obligations to
the school. House Act Number 1597 raises the mandatory school attendance law in Indiana to
seventeen (17) (unless there is given by the parent specific written consent to avoid continuing
attendance) and ties in the issuance of driver’s license to individuals under the age of eighteen (18)
to what might best be called a “good standing status” with their local school corporation.
A student who has withdrawn from school for a reason other than financial hardship will not be
issued a driver’s license or learner’s permit until the age of eighteen (18). During the exit interview,
the principal will determine whether or not the student is withdrawing due to financial hardship. The
parent and the student will receive a copy of the determination and information about the student’s
name will be submitted to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
At least five (5) days before holding an exit interview, the school corporation shall give notice by
certified mail or personal delivery to the student, the student’s parent, or the student’s guardian of
the following:
1. That the exit interview will include a hearing to determine if the reason for the student’s
withdrawal is financial hardship.
2. If the principal determines that the reason for the student’s withdrawal is not financial hardship:
a. The student and the student’s parent or guardian will receive a copy of the
determination; and
b. The student’s name will be submitted to the bureau for the bureau’s use in denying or
invalidating a driver’s license or learner’s permit under this section.
CLUBS & ACTIVITIES
CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES
To participate, students must be in good standing with the school.
ARGOS HIGH SCHOOL LEOs (LEO) -
ART CLUB - Sponsored by Elizabeth Endres
BOOK CLUB - Sponsored by Laura Jones
BOWLING - Sponsored by Beth Cohagan
BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS OF AMERICA (BPA) - Sponsored by Shari Bloom
JH BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS OF AMERICA (BPA) - Sponsored by Shari Bloom
DRAMA CLUB
ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH CLUB (ECO)
FUTURE EDUCATORS OF AMERICA (FEA) - Sponsored by Bronwyn Carroll
FFA - Sponsored by Mallarie Stookey
INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS
MUSIC PROGRAM
RUNNING CLUB
SUNSHINE SOCIETY - Sponsored by Megan Huys
QUIZ BOWL - Sponsored by John Fishburn
JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY - Sponsored by Brenda Baker
JHS is made up from eligible 7th, 8th, and 9th graders. Membership is based on scholarship
and citizenship.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY (NHS) -
NHS is a club organized under the National Club charter. Members must have and maintain a
minimum academic grade point average of 3.33 and they must have good character, exhibit
good service and provide good leadership.
Selection procedure for induction in the National Honor Society:
1. Selection of students for membership is a responsibility of the local school through its
faculty council.
2. Students’ academic records will be reviewed to determine scholastic eligibility.
3. Students who are eligible scholastically shall be notified, and told that for further
consideration for selection to the NHS Chapter they must complete the Student Activity
Information Form.
4. Additional faculty input will be invited by all faculty members on potential candidates.
However, the actual selection must be made by the five appointed members of the faculty
council.
5. The Student Activity Information Form shall be reviewed by the faculty council, along
with any other verifiable information about each candidate. The faculty council may wish to
interview candidates personally. Candidates receiving a majority vote of the faculty council
should be inducted into the chapter. If a point system is used to evaluate candidates the
cut-off point should be determined prior to reviewing candidates.
STUDENT COUNCIL - Sponsored by Kim Griffiths
Student Council is made up of four (4) representatives from each class in grades 11-12 and
six (6) representatives in grades 7-10.. Its purpose is to provide a better school environment
through service and recommendations to the principal.
The Student Council Constitution can be viewed in its entirety at www.argos.k12.in.us.
CLASS OFFICERS & CLUB OFFICERS
CLASS OF 2019 CLASS OF 2020
PRESIDENT: HUNTER VIRES PRESIDENT: BRADEN THOMPSON
V-PRESIDENT: BROCK BUCKER V-PRESIDENT: COLIN O’DELL
SECRETARY: ERIN EDWARDS SECRETARY: PAYTON BETZ
TREASURER: JOBE KAYLOR TREASURER: EVAN COHAGAN
CLASS OF 2021 CLASS OF 2022
PRESIDENT: MADILYN VANDERWEELE PRESIDENT: MICHAEL RICHARD
TREASURER: SYDNEY SHEPHERD TREASURER: CARLEIGH MILLER
CLASS OF 2023 CLASS OF 2024
PRESIDENT: IZABELLA MCCRAMMER PRESIDENT: CALIA FEHR
TREASURER: ARYANNA ALLEN TREASURER: CAILEY MARKLEY
Student Council/Government Officers
PRESIDENT: KENDALL CARNES V-PRESIDENT: MORGAN DUNLAP
SECRETARY: MADELINE DEWULF TREASURER: LUKAS VANDERWEELE
Student Council Representatives
Seniors: Lukas VanDerWeele, Ian Kindig, Aaliyah Shafer, Kendall Carnes
Juniors: Madeline DeWulf, Morgan Dunlap, Macy Morris, Amani Gonzalez, Taylor
Dowdle, Owen Nifong
Sophomores: Lilly Pask, Emma Swathwood, Madi VanDerWeele, Shella Ahlemeyer,
Arianna Petz, Sydney Shepherd
Freshman: Elizabeth Edmonds, Hannah Trump, Carliegh Miller, Dylan Kindig
Kara Sabanski, Michael Richard
8th Grade: Izabella McCrammer, Aryanna Allen, Emma Dunlap, Bella Stults,
Kaitlyn DeWulf, Amanda Fajardo
7th Grade: Jackson Kindig, Luke Shafer, Cailey Markley, Calia Fehr, Tori Hacker,
Lillianna McMillen
Club officers
Argos High School LEOs (LEO) Sunshine Society (SSS)
PRESIDENT: JOHN CARR OFFICER: MORGAN DUNLAP
V-PRESIDENT: MORGAN DUNLAP OFFICER: MADELYN DEWULF
SECRETARY: MADELINE DEWULF OFFICER: MCKENNA BURKHOLDER
TREASURER: KENDALL CARNES OFFICER: AMANI GONZALEZ
HISTORIAN: AALIYAH SHAFER
(Business Professional of America (BPA)
Art Club
PRESIDENT: MADELINE DEWULF PRESIDENT: GRACE NELLANS
V-PRESIDENT: KENDAL FERGUSON V-PRESIDENT: KENDALL CARNES
SECRETARY: KENDALL CARNES SECRETARY: AALIYAH SHAFER
TREASURER: ALISON OVERMYER TREASURER: KAYLEE BRADLEY
HISTORIAN: MIKEY CRUM
Ecological Community Outreach (ECO)
Junior Honor Society (JHS)
C0-PRESIDENT: PRESIDENT: JAYCE MORRIS
V-PRESIDENT: V-PRESIDENT CALEB RAKOCZY
SECRETARY: SECRETARY: KARA SABANSKI
TREASURER: TREASURER: LIZZY EDMONDS
Future Educators of America (FEA
)
National Honor Society (NHS)
PRESIDENT: MCKENNA BURKHOLDER PRESIDENT: KENDALL CARNES
V-PRESIDENT: JOHN CARR V-PRESIDENT: HUNTER VIRES
SECRETARY: LYNDI REINHOLD SECRETARY: SHANDELL PARKER
TREASURER: CHRIS FISHBURN TREASURER: BROCK BUCKER
FFA
PRESIDENT: LANE BOLLENBACHER
V-PRESIDENT: MORGAN DUNLAP / EVAN COHAGAN
SECRETARY: PAYTON BETZ
TREASURER: EMMA SWATHWOOD / MACY MORRIS
REPORTER: LILLY PETZ
SENTINEL: JOHN CARR
HISTORIAN:
DISCIPLINE
INTRODUCTION
Students, parents, and teachers all appreciate and expect good school discipline. The Argos
School Board has adopted the following regulations so that students know what is expected from
them. The School Board expects these regulations to be reinforced fairly and it has established
procedures for teachers and administrators to follow in that regard.
An environment that provides equal opportunity for all and permits the teaching-learning process to
proceed in an orderly manner is the objective of all school personnel. School staff members will
make every effort individually, collectively, and cooperatively, with appropriate available community
resources, to help each student gain acceptable self-discipline standards.
Reprimand, corporal punishment, referral to special personnel in schools (counselor, principal),
parent conferences, in school suspension, detention, suspension, and expulsion are courses of
action available to school personnel in dealing with pupils involved in school discipline problems.
Some behavior is much more serious than others and requires different approaches and clearly
defined actions. Any or all of the above techniques may be used to deal with improper types of
behavior.
Complete copies of the Student Due Process Law (I.C. 20-33-8-1; 20-33-8-23) are available for
student use in the general office. This law outlines procedures for suspensions, expulsions, and
exclusions. In addition, the Student Due Process Law covers procedure for school conducted
search and seizure. The board policy regarding searches of lockers, students, and
student-operated automobiles is reprinted below.
On occasion, the school principal may have “reasonable cause for search” of a student’s locker,
car, or person. Reasonable cause means circumstances, which would cause a reasonable person
to believe that the search of a particular person, place, or thing will lead to the discovery of
evidence of a violation of the student conduct standards contained in the student handbook;
anything that because of its presence presents an immediate danger of physical harm or illness to
any person.
Argos Jr. Sr. High School uses a progressive disciplinary system.
ALCOHOL SUSPICION
If any student exhibits the symptoms of being under the influence of alcohol, the Argos Police
Department will be called, and he/she will be asked to submit to an Alco-Sensor test. Failure to
comply will result in his/her suspension or expulsion.
DISRUPTION TO EDUCATIONAL PROCESS
The conduct of students both in school and out of school is to be that which typifies a mature,
responsible young adult. Proper respect is to be shown towards teachers and other school
employees at all times. The student-teacher relationship does not end with the school day. The
respect shown between a student and teacher should continue in the community after school
hours. The efforts of both teachers and students will be greatly enhanced if the respect shown
each is mutual. Recognizing that the behavior of some students may be so disruptive that it
interferes with school purposes or educational functions of the school corporation, school officials
may find it necessary to discipline a student. In this event and in accordance with the provisions of
IC 20-33-8-1, the School Board authorizes administrators and staff members to take the following:
• REMOVAL FROM CLASS OR ACTIVITY - TEACHER; A junior high or high school teacher
will have the right to remove a student from his/her class or activity for a period of up to five (5)
school days if the student is assigned regular or additional work to be completed in another
school setting.
• SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL - PRINCIPAL: A school principal (or designee) may deny a
student the right to attend school or take part in any school function for a period of up to ten
(10) school days.
• EXPULSION: In accordance with the due process procedures defined in this policy, a student
may be expelled from school for a period no longer than the remainder of the current semester
plus the following semester.
• BATTERY/HARASSMENT: PL 72-2006 states: Any action against a school employee which
is in the form of battery or harassment must be reported to a local law enforcement agency.
DRESS AND APPEARANCE FOR ELEMENTARY
Students at Argos Elementary School have considerable choice in their style of dress and
appearance. Basic limitations on dress and appearance are that they must not be disruptive to the
educational process and that they must not pose a threat to the health, welfare, or safety of the
individual or of other students. Further, for the sake of appearance, male and female students shall
not wear sunglasses, bandanas, hats or headbands in the classroom without express permission
of the principal. Further restrictions include midriff tops, short shorts (must be at least fingertip
length while standing, with hands to sides), halter-tops, cut-off T-shirts, T-shirts with questionable
language, and bicycle shorts. Dress is also expected to be clean and free of ornamentation, which
can cause damage to school property. Clothing that could constitute a safety hazard to the wearer
is prohibited. The determination about when an item or style is objectionable under these
guidelines is left to the judgment of school officials.
DRESS CODE FOR JR.-SR. HIGH STUDENTS
GROOMING - All students who attend Argos Jr.-Sr. High School are encouraged to come to the
school clean and dressed neatly. Students are asked to think about to others with whom they must
interact and to be considerate of them. Students who are referred to the nurse or the main office
because of lack of cleanliness and/or good hygiene will be instructed to clean up at school or will
be sent home to wash, bathe, etc.
GENERAL CLOTHING - Any clothing that is dangerous (usually considered when working around
machines or equipment) or disruptive in any way cannot be allowed at school. Students should
monitor the weather conditions and wear appropriate clothing, especially during cold weather.
Students should not plan to wear outside apparel during the school day. Jackets, coats, hats,
hoods, and bandanas should not be carried into classrooms but should be kept in lockers.
Hats/hoods should not be worn during any class period or during passing period. Extremes in
tightness or shortness of tops, shorts, skirts, etc. are to be avoided (i.e. leggings, yoga pants,
etc…). Torn clothing or clothing with holes that expose undergarments are not permitted. No
visible skin above the fingertips, with hands at side, while standing. Cloth patches are allowed to
cover holes, above the fingertips. Clothing worn to school with advertisements or statements
related to tobacco, alcohol, bars, illicit drugs, or containing offensive, off-color, or obscene
connotations are interpreted by the administration, classroom teacher, or any other staff member in
the building is contrary to the goals and objectives of the school and its programs. Metal plates
should not be placed on shoes to be worn at school. The use of metal chains will not be permitted,
including for the purposes of securing a wallet.
SHIRTS/TOPS - Students are not permitted to wear shirts or other clothing with sayings or pictures
that might be interpreted as offensive by others. All tank tops or shirts must have sleeves or straps
that are at least the width of three fingers on the shoulders (no spaghetti straps), and neither sides
nor the chest must not be exposed. Shirts must be of sufficient length to be tucked into pants.
Shirts and/or tops that must be constantly pulled down to cover the midriff are not appropriate for
school wear.
ADEQUATE COVERAGE: The maintenance of common decency and classroom order requires
adequate coverage of the person. Any clothing, which reveals undergarments or the lack of
undergarments, will be considered inappropriate. Pants should not be worn in a sagging position
but worn at the waist. Garments such as slippers, pajamas, short skirts, halter tops, those which
reveal bare midriffs or backs, tube tops, see-through tops, tank tops, and those which contain
spaghetti straps, off shoulder, and garments with plunging or revealing necklines, etc. are not
allowed. Shirts and tops must be long enough to tuck in. Appropriate shirts are to be worn by both
genders at all times including during physical education courses, sports practices, etc. “Cut Out”
shirts generally are not allowed. Shorts, skirts, and dresses must be at least fingertip length while
standing at attention. Pants should not be worn in a sagging position so that undergarments are
visible. Leggings and yoga pants must be covered by a dress or shirt that is at least fingertip
length while standing, with arms straight at sides.
PANTS/LEGGINGS - If tight pants are worn, a shirt/sweatshirt should be at least fingertip in length.
Pants need to be pulled up and should be secured with a belt.
SHOES - Students must wear shoes/sandals at all times to avoid injury and improve the sanitary
conditions of the building.
SHORTS/SKIRTS - Shorts/skirts should extend at least to the end of the fingertips when the arm is
fully extended.
VIOLATIONS - Students violating the dress code will be sent to the office to change either clothes
to meet the appropriate school standards and return to class. Dress code violations will be
monitored and the student will be on a progressive discipline plan.
GUM CHEWING
Gum chewing is considered to be a part of a particular teacher’s class rules and regulations.
Students are to comply with these rules and regulations.
LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSISTANCE
The principal, or a member of the administrative staff designated in writing by the principal, may
request the assistance of a law enforcement officer to
1. Search any area of the school premises, any student, or any motor vehicle on school
premises.
2. Identify or dispose of anything found in the course of a search conducted in accordance with
this section.
Where law enforcement officers respond to such a request, no school employee shall assist or
otherwise participate in any search conducted.
PARENT PARTICIPATION
A parent (including a guardian and custodian) of a dependent student at the discretion of and upon
proper notice by a school official shall be required to participate in any disciplinary action involving
the student’s behavior, which is authorized under the Student Due Process Code IC 20-33-8-1, as
well as the student discipline handbook of this school corporation.
Parent participation includes, but is not limited to, meetings, conferences, hearings, supervising
after-school-home study time, reviewing homework, and ensuring regular school attendance and
attendance after school if necessary. When a school official deems it necessary to require parent
participation to resolve behavioral problems of a student, the parent shall be notified in one of the
following ways:
1. Telephone contact by a school official requesting an immediate meeting, followed by letter of
confirmation by regular or certified mail; or
2. Personal delivery of written notice of the required attendance at the meeting by a school
official.
The superintendent, principal, or other administrative official shall be authorized upon receipt of
parental consent to require the student to participate in behavioral testing, counseling, or drug or
alcohol abuse evaluation by a licensed agency if such testing, counseling or evaluation if
reasonably necessary to help any student, to further school purposes or to prevent interference
with school purposes. The cost of these services shall be the responsibility of the parent.
Upon receipt of proper notice, any parent, guardian, or custodian, who fails to comply with the
requirements of a school official to participate in the resolution of behavioral problems of a student
whose conduct is repeatedly disruptive to the student’s own educational progress or to the
progress of others may be referred to the Child Protective Services Division of Public Welfare and
the child may be considered to be a “child in need of services” in accordance with IC
31-6-4-3(a)(7).
PUBLIC SHOW OF AFFECTION
Students should not, under any circumstances, while on school grounds, anywhere in the building
or at a school function, show affection to one another that creates a scene and draws undue
attention to them. Examples of this behavior are hugging, kissing, and hand holding. The
administration and faculty believes this creates a poor image of our student body, and that school
is not the place to engage in any affectionate gestures.
REASONABLE FORCE
There are circumstances and/or conditions under which employees are permitted to touch students
appropriately, such as, intervening in fights, protecting individual injury, protecting oneself,
providing appropriate care to a disabled student, and moving through a crowd to intervene in a
situation.
SEARCH – DISPOSAL OF CONFISCATED ITEMS
Anything found in the course of a search conducted in accordance with this section, which is
evidence of a violation of the student, conduct standards contained in the student handbook or
which may present an immediate danger or physical harm to any person may be:
• Seized and admitted as evidence in any suspension or expulsion proceeding if it is tagged for
identification at the time it is seized and kept in a secure place by the principal or the principal’s
designee until it is presented at the hearing;
• Returned to parent or guardian of the student from whom it was seized;
• Destroyed if it has no significant value, or
• Turned over to any law enforcement officer in accordance with the law.
SEARCH - LOCKERS, VEHICLES AND OTHER STORAGE AREAS
Since all lockers and other storage areas provided for student use on school premises remain the
property of the school corporation and are provided for the use of the students, subject to
inspection, access for maintenance, and search pursuant to this section, no student shall lock or
otherwise impede access to any locker or storage area except with a lock provided by or approved
by the principal.
1. The principal, or a member of the administrative staff designated in writing by the principal and
with reasonable cause, may search a locker and its contents. Where the locker in question is
assigned to a particular student who is on the school premises at the time of the search, the
student shall be notified and given the option to be present at the search. No such option will
be available in the case of a general search where all lockers in a given area will be searched.
2. The principal, a member of the administrative staff, or a teacher may search a desk or any
other storage area on school premises other than a locker when the person conducting the
search has reasonable cause for search.
3. Refusing to cooperate in a vehicle search conducted pursuant to reasonable suspicion of a
teacher or administrator or pursuant to the consent to search given in the student parking
agreement.
IC 20-33-8-32:
(a) A school corporation must provide each:
(1) student; and
(2) student’s parent;
a copy of the rules of the governing body on searches of students’ lockers
and locker contents.
A student who uses a locker that is the property of a school corporation is presumed to have
no expectation of privacy in:
(1) that locker; or
(2) the locker’s contents.
In accordance with the rules of the governing body, a principal may search:
(1) a student’s locker; and
(2) the locker’s contents at any time.
A law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the geographic area having a school facility
containing a student’s locker may:
(1) at the request of the school principal; and
(2) in accordance with rules of the governing body of the school corporation;
assist a school administrator in searching a student’s locker and the locker’s contents.
SEARCH - PERSON OF A STUDENT
The principal, or another member of the administrative staff designated in writing by the principal
and acting at the direction of the principal, may search the person of a student during a school
activity if the principal has reasonable cause for a search of that student. Searches of the person of
a student may include:
1. Searches of the pockets of the student,
2. Any object in the possession of the student such as a purse or a briefcase, and/or
3. A “pat down” of the exterior of the student’s clothing;
4. Searches of the person of a student which requires removal of clothing other than a jacket or
coat,
A. A person of the same sex as the student being searched shall conduct searches of the
person of a student in a private room.
B. At least one additional person of the same sex as the student shall witness the search.
C. The parent or guardian of the student shall be notified of the search as soon as
reasonably possible.
SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION GROUNDS:
Grounds for suspension or expulsion are student misconduct and/or substantial disobedience.
This is applicable when a student is
• On school grounds immediately before, during school hours, immediately after school hours,
or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group;
• Off school grounds immediately before, during school hours, immediately after school hours, or
any other time when the school is being used by a school group;
• Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function or event. (As added by PL 131-1995,
SEC. 10)
• During summer school
The following include examples of student misconduct, but are not limited to:
“School property” used in the following information means:
A building or other structure owned or rented by a school corporation.
The grounds adjacent to and owned or rented in common with a building or other structure owned
or rented by a school corporation. (IC 20-33-8-5)
“Suspension” used in the following information means any disciplinary action that does not
constitute an expulsion under section 3 of this chapter, whereby a student is separated from school
attendance for a period of not more than ten (10) school days.
IC 20-33-8-10: A principal may take action concerning the principal’s school or a school activity
within the principal’s jurisdiction that is reasonably necessary to carry out or prevent interference
with an educational function or school purposes.
IC 20-33-8-11:
(a) superintendent; or
(b) member of the superintendent’s administrative staff, with the
superintendent’s approval;
may take any action with respect to all schools within the superintendent’s jurisdiction
that is reasonably necessary to carry out or prevent interference with an educational
function or school purposes.
IC 20-33-8-8:
(a) Student supervision and the desirable behavior of students in carrying out
school purposes is the responsibility of:
(1) a school corporation; and
(2) the students of a school corporation.
(b) In all matters relating to the discipline and conduct of students, School
Corporation personnel:
(1) stand in the relation of parents to the students of the school corporation; and
(2) have the right to take any disciplinary action necessary to promote student
conduct that conforms with an orderly and effective educational system, subject to this
chapter.
(c)Students must:
(1) follow responsible directions of school personnel in all educational settings;
and
(2) refrain from disruptive behavior that interferes with the educational
environment.
Sending, sharing, viewing, or possessing pictures, text messages, e-mails, or other material of a
sexual nature in electronic or any other form, including the contents of a cell phone or other
electronic device. There is no Education code in Indiana for cell phones. The offenses cover four
different I.C. codes regarding pornography, child exploitation, voyeurism, and harassment.
1. BULLYING
Bullying by a student or groups of students against another student with the intent to harass,
ridicule, humiliate, intimidate, harm the other student through overt, repeated acts or gestures,
including verbal or written communications transmitted, and/or committed, or any other similar
behavior is prohibited.
a) Definition: Bullying happens when someone hurts or scares another person on
purpose and the person being bullied has a hard time defending him or herself. Usually,
bullying happens over and over.
• Punching, shoving, and other acts that hurt people physically
• Spreading bad rumors about people
• Keeping certain people out of a “group”
• Teasing people in a mean way
• Getting certain people to “gang up” on others
Bullying also can happen online or electronically. Cyberbullying is when children or
teens bully each other using the Internet, mobile phones or other technology. This can
include
• Sending mean text, email, or instant messages
• Posting nasty pictures or messages about others on any social media.
• Using someone else’s user name to spread rumors or lies about someone.
b) Locations: This rule applies when a student is:
1) On school grounds immediately before or during school hours, immediately
after school hours or at any other time when the school is being used by a school
group (including summer school);
2) Off school grounds at a school activity, function, or event;
3) Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event; or
4) Using property or equipment provided by the school.
c) Parental Involvement: Parents or students who suspect that repeated acts of bullying
are taking place should report the matter to the school principal or designee. School
personnel will investigate all reports of bullying.
d) Response: Counseling, corrective discipline, and/or referral to law enforcement will be
used to change the behavior of the perpetrator. This includes appropriate intervention(s),
restoration of a positive climate, and support for victims and others impacted by the
violation.
e) Prevention: Educational outreach and training will be provided to school personnel,
parents, and students concerning the identification, prevention, and intervention in bullying.
f) Pro-Active Steps: All school personnel in the corporation are encouraged to engage
students, staff and parents in meaningful discussions about the negative aspects of
bullying. The parent involvement may be through parent organizations already in place.
g) Hotline: The anti-bullying/TIP Hotline is now active. Students/Staff/Parents/Concerned
Patrons may now call 574-598-2860. There is no Caller ID and the voicemails will go
directly to Mr. Medich’s email.
2. CHEATING: Engaging in academic dishonesty, including cheating, intentionally plagiarizing,
wrongfully giving or receiving help during an academic examination, and wrongfully obtaining
test copies or scores.
3. CHRONIC MISCONDUCT: Violating or repeatedly violating any rules that are reasonably
necessary in carrying out school purposes or an educational function and are validly adopted
in accordance with Indiana law, including, but not limited to:
a) Absences & Tardiness: Willful absence or tardiness of students
b) Conspiring to violate rules: Aiding, assisting, or conspiring with another person to
violate these student conduct rules of state or federal law.
c) Controlled Substance: Knowingly possessing, using, providing or transmitting to
another person or being under the influence of any substance which is, looks like or was
represented to be a tobacco product, a narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine,
barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, substance containing alcohol, stimulant,
depressant, or intoxicant of any kind;
d) Defiance: Committing an act of defiance, either in language or action, against an
instructional assistant, teacher or administrator. Refusing or failing to follow a directive
from a school employee, including a directive to respond truthfully and completely when
questioned about a school-related matter.
e) Disobedience: Disobedience of administrative authority;
f) Emergency equipment - tampering: Tampering with fire-fighting equipment or
emergency alarm systems
g) Enrollment falsification: A student may be expelled from school if the student’s legal
settlement is not in the attendance area of the school corporation where the student is
enrolled. (IC 20-33-8-17)
h) Explosives: Possessing and/or igniting explosives or incendiaries of any type on
school premises or in an area where school sponsored activities are being held.
i) Forgery: Forging, falsifying, altering, or illegally possessing school forms or using
forged notes or excuses
j) Harassment:/Threats: Harassing, threatening, intimidating or stalking another person.
“Harassing” behavior is behavior directed toward another person without a legitimate
purpose after that person has clearly stated or shown that the behavior is unwelcome.
“Threat” means an expression by words or actions, or intent to unlawfully injure the person
threatened or another person or damage property.
k) Identification Failure: Failure to identify oneself to any school employee.
l) Lying: To any school employee or volunteer.
m)Misconduct: Misconduct in class, library, assembly, athletic events, hall’s, grounds, or
any school function.
n) Paraphernalia: Possessing or providing to any person anything used or designed to be
used primarily for the storage, processing, delivery or consumption of (1) alcohol; (2)
marijuana; (3) stimulants; (4) intoxicants; (5) narcotics; (6) depressants; (7) hallucinogens
on school premises at any time or at any school sponsored activity at any location
including the school bus. Examples of things, which are not to be possessed or provided to
another person, are: pipes, rolling paper, clips, or any other paraphernalia.
o) Prescriptions & Stimulants - Unauthorized: Possessing, using, transmitting, or being
under the influence of caffeine-based substances, substances containing
phenylpropanolamine (PPA), or stimulants of any kind, be they available with or without a
prescription. Possessing, using, transmitting any substance that is used for medical
purposes including over the counter medications that are available without a prescription.
p) Profanity: Using profane or obscene language or materials
q) Reporting harmful behavior of others: Videotaping fights or other illegal activities or
failing to report the actions or plans of another person to a teacher or administrator where
those actions or plans, if carried out, could result in harm to another person or persons or
damage property when the student has information about such actions or plans.
r) Sexual Behavior: Engaging in sexual behavior on school property;
s) Sexual Harassment: Engage in sexual harassment of another person, which includes
sexually related verbal statements, whether it be a cyber attack or via text or instant
messages, gestures or physical contact.
t) Smoking
Argos Community Schools has adopted a policy for a smoke free -- tobacco free
environment.
• The first violation will result in three (3) days of Out of School Suspension.
• The second violation will result in five (5) days of Out of School Suspension.
• The third violation will result in a request for expulsion.
1) Smoking, e-cigarettes, vaping, tobacco or products of any kind, that appear
to be related are not permitted in the building, on the school grounds or at any
school activities
2) Students are not to carry tobacco products at school. This includes
possessing cigarettes, e-cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, or other tobacco
product or a device such as a lighter or matches designed primarily for use in
consuming tobacco products. Failure to comply may result in forfeiture of the
products and disciplinary action.
u) Vulgar Behavior: Engage in speech or conduct, including clothing, jewelry or a
hairstyle that is dangerous to the student, indecent, vulgar, and profane presents a
message that is inconsistent with the educational mission of the school district; or results in
disruption of an educational function.
• Sexting is included in this section. This is taking, sending or forwarding a
sexual picture of you or someone else or a sexual texting message. This is prohibited
by law.
4. CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE POSSESSION: Knowingly possessing, using, transmitting, or
being or being affected by any controlled substance, prescription drug, narcotic drug,
hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, intoxicant or
depressant of any kind, or any paraphernalia used in connection with the listed substance.
Also prohibited is the consumption of any of the stated substances immediately before
attending school or a school function or event.
Exception: a student with a chronic disease or medical condition may possess a prescribed
medication that is self-administered for the disease or condition if the student’s parent has filed
a written authorization with the building principal. The written authorization must be filed
annually. The written authorization must be done by a physician and must include the following
information;
a) That the student has an acute or chronic disease or medical condition for which the
physician had prescribed medication.
b) The nature of the disease or medical condition requires emergency administration of the
prescribed medication.
c) The student has been instructed in how to self-administer the prescribed medication.
d) The student is authorized to possess and self-administer the prescribed medication.
5. CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SELLING: Engaging in the unlawful selling of a controlled
substance or engaging in a criminal law violation that constitutes a danger to other students or
constitutes an interference with school purposes or an educational function.
6. DAMAGE TO PROPERTY: Causing or attempting to cause damage to school or private
property, stealing or attempting to steal school or private property.
7. DEADLY WEAPON POSSESSION: Knowingly possessing, handling, or transmitting a knife,
or any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon, is represented to be a weapon or
looks like a weapon. Possessing a knife on school property or on a school bus under P.L.
72-2006 makes it a Class B misdemeanor, Class A if the offender has a previous unrelated
conviction and a Class D felony if the offense results in bodily injury or serious bodily injury to
another person.
a) No student shall possess, handle or transmit any deadly weapon on school property.
b) The following devices are considered to be deadly weapons as defined in I.C.
35-41-1-8;
• A weapon, Taser or electronic stun weapon, equipment, chemical substance
or other material that in the manner is it used, or could ordinarily be used, or is
intended to be used, is readily capable of causing serious bodily injury.
• An animal readily capable of causing serious bodily injury and used in the
commission or attempted commission of a crime.
c) The penalty for possession of a deadly weapon: Up to 10 days suspension/expulsion
from school for a period of up to one calendar year.
d) The superintendent shall immediately notify the appropriate law enforcement agency
when a student is expelled under this rule.
8. ELECTRONICS MISCONDUCT:
a) Disciplinary referrals will be given to students violating this policy during school hours.
b) 1st violation of electronic misconduct – lose possession – warning
2nd violation of electronic misconduct – lose possession – detention
3rd violation of electronic misconduct – lose possession – Thursday school for
insubordination and parent/guardian of the student will need to pick the cellphone up from
the office.
c) Computer Tampering: knowingly or intentionally altering or damaging a computer
program or data, which comprises a part of a computer system of network (IC 35-43-1-4).
d) Computer Trespass: knowingly or intentionally gaining access to computer system,
network, or any part of a system or network without the consent of the owner (IC
35-43-2-3).
9. FIREARM OR A DESTRUCTIVE DEVICE POSSESSION (IC: 35-47-9)
a) No student shall possess, handle or transmit any firearm or a destructive device on
school property.
b) The following devices are considered to be a firearm as defined in Section 921 of Title
18 of the United States Code:
• any weapon which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel
a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant.
• the frame or receiver of any weapon described above
• any firearm muffler or firearm silencer
• any destructive device which is an explosive, incendiary, or poison gas
bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile
having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, mine, or
any similar device.
• any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting
any device into any destructive device described in the two immediately preceding
examples, and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled
• an antique firearm
• a rifle which the owner intends to use solely for sporting, recreational, or
cultural purposes
• any device which is neither designed nor redesigned for use as a weapon
• any device, although originally designed for use as a weapon, which is
redesigned for use as a signaling pyrotechnic, line throwing, safety, or similar device
• Class C common fireworks
For purposes of this rule, a destructive device is:
a) An explosive, incendiary, or overpressure device that is configured as a bomb, a
grenade, a rocket with a propellant charge of more than four ounces, a missile having an
explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, a mine, a Molotov cocktail
or a device that is substantially similar to an item described above,
b) A type of weapon that may be readily converted to expel a projectile by the action of an
explosive or other propellant through a barrel that has a bore diameter of more than
one-half inch, or
c) A combination of parts designed or intended for use in the conversation of a device into
a destructive device. A destructive device is NOT a device that although originally
designed for use as a weapon, is redesigned for use as a signaling, pyrotechnic, line
throwing, safety, or similar device.
d) The penalty for possession of a firearm or destructive device: Ten (10) days
suspension and expulsion from school for one calendar year with the return of the student
to be at the beginning of the first semester after the one year period. The superintendent
may reduce the length of the expulsion if the circumstances warrant such reduction.
e) The superintendent shall immediately notify the appropriate law enforcement agency
when a student is expelled under this rule.
10. GANG ACTIVITY OR ASSOCIATION: Gangs which initiate, advocate, or promote activities
which threaten the safety or well-being of persons or property on school grounds or which
disrupt the school environment are harmful to the educational process. Incidents involving
initiations, hazing, intimidation, and/or related activities of such group affiliations which are
likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in
physical or mental harm to students are prohibited. Any student wearing, carrying, or
displaying gang paraphernalia, or exhibiting behavior or gestures which symbolize gang
membership, or causing and/or participating in activities which intimidate or affect the
attendance of another student shall be subject to disciplinary action. The type of dress,
apparel, activities, acts, behavior or manner of grooming displayed, reflected, or participated in
by the student shall not:
A. Present a physical safety hazard to self, students, staff, and other
employees;
B. Create an atmosphere in which a student, staff, or other person’s well-being
is hindered by undue pressure, behavior, intimidation, overt gesture or threat of violence;
or
C. Imply gang membership or affiliation by written communication, tattoos,
drawing, painting, design, and emblem upon any school or personal property or on one’s
person.
D. The superintendent shall notify the county prosecuting attorney’s office when a student
is expelled under this rule.
No person may engage in any activity for the purpose of defending any street gang on
or about school premises or school grounds or at any school-sponsored activity. The
prohibited activities include, but are not limited to, a fight related to any gang activity.
Penalty for violation
:
1. Suspension ten (10) school days; referral to Police: possible expulsion
2. Expulsion and referral to police
Gang Membership:
Membership in an organized group of youth or adults, commonly known as “street
gangs”, on or about school premises or at any school-sponsored activity.
Penalty for violation
:
1. Suspension ten (10) school days and referral to police
2. Expulsion and referral to police.
Gang Related Symbols
No hats, jackets, or any item or clothing or jewelry containing the insignia of a street
gang or otherwise commonly associated with a street gang may be worn on or about the
school premises, or on school grounds, or to any school-sponsored activity.
Penalty for violation:
1. Suspension 1-5 school days.
2. Expulsion and referral to police and probation.
Drawing Gang Symbols, or “Representing”
No person may engage in any activity for the purpose of promoting any street gang on
or about school premises or school grounds or at any school sponsored activity. The
prohibited activities include but are not limited to drawing or displaying gang symbols on
any surface or teaching others to “represent” or act like a gang member.
Penalty for violation
:
1. Suspension 1-5 school days.
2. Expulsion and referral to police and probation.
Violence, Intimidation, or Coercion Related to Gangs
No person may intimidate by violence or other means, or otherwise coerce any other
person in any interaction related to a “street gang” .
Penalty for violation:
1. Suspension 1-5 school days.
2. Expulsion and referral to police and probation.
11. INSUBORDINATION: Failing in a number of instances to comply with directions of teachers or
other school personnel during any period of time when the student is properly under their
supervision, where the failure constitutes an interference with school purposes or an
educational function.
12. PHYSICAL HARM: Intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical injury or intentionally
behaving in such a way as could reasonably cause physical injury to any person. Behavior that
injures or presents a risk of injury to the student or another person is considered physical
harm.
13. THEFT THREAT: Threatening or intimidating any student for the purpose of, or with the intent
of, obtaining money or anything of value from the student.
14. VIOLENT BEHAVIOR: Using violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive
resistance, or other comparable conduct constituting an interference with school purposes, or
urging other students to engage in such conduct. The following enumeration is only illustrative
and not limited to the type of conduct prohibited by this subdivision:
a. Occupying any school building, school grounds, or part thereof with intent to deprive
others of its use.
b. Blocking the entrance or exits of any school building or corridor or room therein with
intent to deprive others of lawful access to or from, or use of the building, corridor, or room.
c. Setting fire to or damaging any school building or property.
d. Prevention of or attempting to prevent by physical act the convening or continued
functioning or any school or education function, or of any meeting or assembly on school
property.
e. Continuously and intentionally making noise or acting in any manner so as to interfere
seriously with the ability of any teacher or any other school personnel to conduct the
education function under this supervision.
15. UNLAWFUL ACTIVITY: In addition to the grounds specified in this section, a student may be
suspended or expelled for engaging in unlawful activity on or off school grounds if (I.C.
20-8.1-5.1-9):
• The unlawful activity may reasonably be considered to be an interference with school
purposes and/or educational function; or
• The student’s removal is necessary to restore order or protect persons on school
property; including an unlawful activity during weekends, holidays, other school breaks,
and the summer period when a student may not be attending classes or other school
functions (As added by P.L. 131-1995. Sec. 10)
NOTE: The grounds for suspension or expulsion listed above apply when a student is
• On school grounds immediately before, during, and immediately after school hours and
at any other time when the school is being used by a school group;
• Off school grounds at a school activity, function, or event, or
• Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event.
In addition to the grounds listed above, a student may be suspended or expelled for
engaging in unlawful activity on or off school grounds if the unlawful activity may
reasonably be considered to be an interference with school purposes or an educational
function, or the student’s removal is necessary to restore order or protect persons on
school property. This includes any unlawful activity meeting the above criteria, which takes
place during weekends, holidays, other school breaks, and the summer period when a
student may not be attending classes or other school functions.
Definition of “in possession” for purpose of these rules - Students are “in possession” of
an item for purpose of these rules when the item is on their person, in their immediate
possession such as in a pocket, purse, or backpack, or is permitted in a place under their
exclusive control such as a locker or vehicle.
Assistance in interpreting school rules - Students or parents concerned about whether a
particular act would be grounds for suspension or expulsion are encouraged to consult
with the building principal for guidance before the student engages in the act.
THREAT POLICY
Students making terrorist threats may be expelled. The administration may require (prior to
readmission) competent and credible evidence that the student does not pose a risk of harm to self
or others.
Expelled students may be subjected to random searches throughout the year.
DISCIPLINARY RESPONSES:
DETENTION
A teacher or the principal may assign detention to a student. Detention meets from 3:00 to 4:00
p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday. Detentions must be assigned on days subsequent to the incident.
Detentions need to be served within three (3) days of assignment by the teacher. If it is
impossible for a student to attend an assigned detention, their parents or guardian must
contact the principal to make other arrangements. Failure to attend assigned detention will
result in more severe discipline.
In the elementary detentions are handled by each individual teacher.
EVENING SCHOOL (JR. SR. HIGH ONLY)
A student may be assigned evening school by the principal for failure to serve an after school
detention, unexcused absences, excessive tardiness and any other infraction that warrants.
Evening school meets from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. Failure to attend will result in more
severe discipline. Thursday Schools will be served at the next available date.
SUSPENSION
a. Procedures: When a principal (or designee) determines that a student should be suspended,
the following procedures will be followed:
1) A meeting will be held prior to the suspension of any student. At this meeting, the
student will be entitled to:
a) a written or oral statement of the charges;
b) if the student denies the charges, a summary of the evidence against the
student will be presented; and,
c) the student will be provided an opportunity to explain his or her conduct.
2) The meeting shall precede suspension of the student except where the nature of the
misconduct requires immediate removal. In such situations, the meeting will follow the
suspension as soon as reasonably possible following the date of the suspension.
3) Following the suspension, the parents or guardians of suspended students will be
notified in writing. The notification will include the dates of the suspension; describe the
student’s misconduct, and the action taken by the principal.
b. Out-of-School Suspension:
1) This suspension is done only in the case of a severe violation of the rules or continued
disruptions to the educational process.
2) Out of School Suspension will receive make up work and it is due one (1) day upon the
student’s return to school. If the out of school suspension is the student’s first offense with
NO prior referrals, student will be allowed credit for missed work.
EXPULSION
a. Definition: Expulsion in this section means a disciplinary or other action whereby a student:
1.)is separated from school attendance for a period exceeding ten (10) school days;
2.)is separated from school attendance for the balance of the current semester or current
year unless a student is permitted to complete required examination in order to receive
credit for courses taken in the current semester or current year; or
3.)is separated from school attendance for the period prescribed under section 16 of this
chapter, which may include an assignment to attend an alternative school, an alternative
educational program, or a homebound educational program. (IC 20-33-8-3)
b. Process: When a principal (or designee) recommends to the superintendent (or designee)
that a student be expelled from school, the following procedures will be followed:
1) Expulsion Hearing: The superintendent (or designee) may conduct an expulsion
meeting, or may appoint one of the following persons to conduct the expulsion meeting:
a) Legal counsel
b) A member of the administrative staff who did not expel the student during the
current school year, and was not involved in the events giving rise to the expulsion.
2) Parental Notification: An expulsion will not take place until the student and the student’s
parents are asked to appear at an expulsion meeting conducted by the superintendent or
the person designated above. Failure by a student or a student’s parent to appear at this
meeting will be deemed a waiver of rights administratively to contest the expulsion or to
appeal it to the school board.
3) Written Request: The request to appear at the expulsion meeting will be in writing,
delivered by certified mail or by personal delivery, and contain the reasons for the
expulsion and the date, time, place, and purpose of the meeting.
4) Hearing Guidelines: At the expulsion meeting, the principal (or designee), will present
evidence to support the charges against the student. The student or parent will have the
opportunity to answer the charges against the student, and to present evidence to support
the student’s position. An attorney may not represent the student at the expulsion meeting,
but the attorney may be available for consultation outside the meeting room during the
course of the meeting.
5) Hearing Decision: If an expulsion meeting is held, the person conducting the expulsion
meeting will make a written summary of the evidence heard at the meeting, take any action
found to be appropriate, and give notice of the action taken to the student and the
student’s parent.
6) Appeal Right: The student or parent has the right to appeal the decision of the person
conducting the expulsion meeting to the school board within 10 days of the receipt of
notice of the action taken. The student or parent appeal to the school board must be in
writing. If an appeal is properly made, the board must consider the appeal unless the
board votes not to hear the appeal. If the board hears the appeal, it will consider the
written summary of the expulsion meeting and the arguments of the school administration
and the student and/or the student’s parent. The board will then take any action deemed
appropriate.
7) Intervention Options: Other disciplinary remedies may also be followed by the
superintendent, principal, any administrative personnel or any teacher of the school
corporation, who are hereby authorized to take any action in connection with student
behavior, in addition to actions otherwise provided for, which are reasonably desirable or
necessary to help any student to further school purposes, or to prevent an interference
therewith, such action including such matters as counseling with a student or group of
students, conferences with a parent or group of parents, assigning students additional
work, rearranging class schedules, requiring a student to remain in school after regular
school hours to do additional school work or for counseling or restriction of extra-curricular
activity.
GENERAL INFORMATION
BARCODES (FOR JR. SR. HIGH SCHOOL)
At the beginning of the school year each student will receive a bar code. These bar codes are to be
kept by the student at all times. This barcode is used to purchase lunch, check out materials from
the library and on occasion as an ID. The bar code is the property of the school and any student
that loses, defaces or destroys their bar code will be required to purchase a new one at the cost of
$3.00. If payment is not made at the time of replacement the cost will be deducted from your lunch
account.Students can use their keypad codes to purchase lunch as well.
CLOSED CAMPUS
Students coming on campus in the morning are to remain in the school building for the rest of the
school day. Students are not allowed in parking lot areas. Permission from the office MUST BE
obtained before a student may leave the school grounds during the school day.
DANCES-HIGH SCHOOL
Dances must be scheduled and approved by the sponsor and the principal and placed on the
school calendar before any plans, such as contracting a band, may be made by the sponsoring
organization. If the sponsor cannot be present, no plans will be expedited. Because of the extreme
high cost of bands, live music is discouraged except for special dances.
1. Dance forms must be on file at least one week prior to the dance.
a. All high school dances are open to AHS students or other students by
Principal approval.
b. Dance guest permission forms require the approval of the principal of Argos
High School.
c. All guests must be a graduate of AHS or have obtained approval from AHS
Principal in advance.
d. Dress code for dances is to follow the school standards;
e. Homecoming is open to AHS Alumni, meeting the above standards.
2. After game dances, except Homecoming must, close by 12:00 a.m. Other dances will
be from 8:00-11:00 p.m., except for Prom which is 8:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
3. Students who leave a dance may not return.
4. Persons arriving more than fifteen minutes after starting time of the dance will not be
admitted without special prior arrangements.
5. The sponsor and the principal shall determine admission fee for the after-game dances.
6. Smoking is not allowed in the buildings, on school grounds or at any off school function.
7. Use of alcohol and/or evidence of their use is prohibited.
8. The activity sponsor must be present to supervise.
9. Sunshine Dance requirements are semi-formal.
10. Dress requirements for Prom
(a.) Boys must wear a tuxedo or dress suit(jacket not required for Sunshine), a
tie, a turtleneck, or a dress shirt and may wear a vest or cummerbund. Jackets and
vests can be removed during the evening, but shirts must be buttoned at all times.
(b.) Girls are NOT to wear dresses with plunging necklines, which expose any
cleavage or bare midriffs, and dresses with slits that are above mid-thigh area. Also
dresses shall not be sexually suggestive or made of sheer or see-through material. All
questionable dresses need to be presented to the class/club sponsors for approval.
(c.) Proper dress shoes are to be worn by both males and females to this dance.
DANCES-JUNIOR HIGH
1. Only Argos junior high students in good standing may attend.
2. Students who leave early may not return.
3. Persons arriving more that fifteen minutes after starting time will not be admitted without
special prior arrangements.
HALL PROCEDURE AND PASSES
GOOD MANNERS on the part of all students are necessary for easy and orderly flow of students.
Running and loud noises cannot be permitted. No student is to be in the hall without a pass, other
than passing for classes. Emergencies are the exception. The student is responsible for obtaining
a valid pass from the teacher. Students wanting restroom or locker passes MUST have THEIR
planners. Junior and Senior high school students should have a pass to be in any part of the
elementary building. Students should realize that all teachers and staff have the responsibility and
authority to enforce these rules.
INTERNET SCHOOL POLICY:
All information pertaining to Internet School Policy is available on the school website at
www.argos.k12.in.us.
All students will receive the Internet/Device/Regulations policy via Skyward during registration.
LIBRARY PASSES
When a student is given an assignment requiring library material, his subject teacher will write a
pass for the student’s entire study hall period. Students first report to study hall and have
attendance taken. They are then released by the study hall teacher to go to the library. Students
are not to go to lockers or the restrooms on their way to the library. Since this type of library
work is independent, student behavior is expected to be appropriate, mature and non-disruptive.
LOCKERS
The lockers are not rented by the students, and the school reserves the right to open and inspect
these lockers when school officials deem it necessary. Lockers should not be shared or
traded—the assigned number is yours. It is the responsibility of the students to keep their
lockers locked, to keep their combinations confidential, and report damaged or broken parts.
There is to be no writing on or in the lockers. No open food or drink containers (clear water bottles
with lids are okay) are allowed in student lockers. Any stickers, mirrors, etc. need to be removed
before leaving for the summer or when withdrawing from school. Any damage or additional
cleaning by the custodial staff will be charged to the student.
Outside locker decorations must be approved by the principal before they are placed on
lockers.
All items left in a locker are the responsibility of the student assigned that locker. The
school recommends and provides locks for students’ use. See SEARCH – LOCKERS,
VEHICLES AND OTHER STORAGE AREAS.
LOST AND FOUND
The lost and found areas are located in the main offices.
LUNCH BREAK
1. Students are not permitted to leave the school grounds and are to eat in the cafeteria.
2. All students are to eat in the cafeteria only.
3. Visitors/guests are not allowed to eat/visit with students during lunch hours.
4. Students that qualify for free breakfast and lunch: Only the meal tray is free, any extra
ala cart items must be paid for.
Students that do not receive free lunches: Must have money in lunch account or have
money in hand to pay for any extras.
5. All students are to be in the cafeteria or gym during lunch. Students are not to be in the lobby
areas—this includes the main lobby and Jr. High gym lobby/hall areas.
6. Outside food purchased from a restaurant cannot be dropped off for students.
7. The School Messenger System will call, text, and /or e-mail parents when the family account
becomes low or negative. Notifications begin at 6 P.M. Monday through Friday. When
contacted by the Messenger Service, the message will only state one student’s name on the
family account as being negative, but it is all the student’s on the family account that are
negative. When you receive this message please make a deposit to your account on the
following day. If a family reaches a $20.00 negative balance, all students on that account will
receive a peanut butter sandwich and milk; no meal tray will be able to be purchased until the
negative balance has been paid.
8. Lunch account balances will be rolled over to the next school year. If you have a negative
balance this must be paid by the end of the school year. Seniors will have their lunch account
balance transferred to siblings or refunded, if no siblings are enrolled.
9. Meal prices for 2018-19 are:
Full Pay Lunch Elementary: $2.40
Jr. Sr. High: $2.50
Reduced Lunch: $0.40
Extra Lunch Entrees: $2.10
Full Pay Breakfast: $1.30
Reduced Breakfast: $0.30
Extra Breakfast Entrees: $1.30
Adult/Visitor Lunch: $3.00
Adult/Visitor Breakfast $1.65
10. Milk break is provided for Kindergarten students only. The cost is $.35 per carton. You may
pay daily or we prefer you purchase a milk ticket for $8.05, which lasts for 23 days.
11. According to the USDA and Dept. of Education, non-disability students with a medical or
special dietary need will no longer be allowed to have orange juice as a free acceptable
substitute for milk on meal trays. Orange juice will still be available to purchase as an ala-carte
item.
MOTOR VEHICLE REGULATIONS
Driving to school and parking at Argos Jr.-Sr. High School is a privilege granted by the school
corporation, it is not an inalienable right. Any student who does not follow proper safety and driving
attitudes or violates the above rules pertaining to registration and parking will jeopardize his/her
privilege to drive to school, as well as having the vehicle removed from school grounds.
Specific driving behavior and responsibilities are expected as outlined below:
1. The student is expected to have an Indiana operator’s license if he drives a motor vehicle to
school.
2. The vehicle must be registered in the High School Office and a parking permit MUST be
properly displayed on the vehicle, viewable to a person on the outside of the vehicle. If the
vehicle is not registered and a parking permit is not visible, a warning will be given the first
time. The second time, the vehicle will be towed at the owner’s expense. No “trading” of
parking permits is allowed. If this occurs, the student’s driving privilege will be suspended for at
least six weeks.
3. Students should park motor vehicles in the blacktopped areas south and west of the
Auditorium.
4. Students are to park in approved areas for students, not in fire lanes, the front lot, or visitor
places. This includes time before and during school hours and all extra-curricular activities.
Cars illegally parked will face the possibility of being towed away at the owner’s expense.
Students are encouraged to park in the back parking lot for practices and events.
5. Once students enter the parking lot, the vehicle is to be parked; Vehicles are to remain parked
until afternoon dismissal unless special arrangements have been made with the principal for an
emergency or special situation. Students are not to drive in and out of the school grounds or
circle the school continuously.
6. Once the car is parked, the students are to proceed immediately into the building.
7. Speeding, peeling out or careless driving on the streets bordering the school or in the parking
lot will not be tolerated.
8. Student drivers are always to yield the right of way to the buses.
9. Students are not to enter or leave the parking lots smoking. Smoking will not be permitted on
any school grounds. The road is legally school ground coming to and from home to school.
10. As drivers, you are responsible for all riders’ behavior.
11. Student’s cars may be searched if suspected of harboring illegal contraband, weapons, or
other illicit materials.
MORNING DROP OFF PROCEDURE:
OPTION 1: When entering First Street, stay to the right, single file, and drop your children off
beside the yellow curb in the “Student Drop-off Zone”, then exit on Yearick Avenue. All children
must be dropped off at the curb in the drop-off zone. Be sure your children are ready to exit
the car when you reach the curb. Make your drop-off time as short as possible so others can enter
the drop-off zone. Please do not let your children off in the street.
OPTION 2 (easier method): When entering Yearick Avenue drop your children off at the tennis
court, turn right and exit First Street. There will be two people that will help students cross the
parking lot by using the crosswalk.
NO PARKING IS ALLOWED IN THE DROP-OFF ZONE (refer to map below). THIS AREA
MUST BE KEPT FREE OF PARKED CARS FOR STUDENT VISIBILITY.
AFTERNOON PICK-UP PROCEDURE:
You may pick-up along the East curb of the parking lot, East curb of First Street and East curb of
Yearick Avenue. No students will be allowed to enter the parking lot except those who need to use
the crosswalk. Please follow sidewalks to crosswalk area when parking in the parking lot for
morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up.
Students and parents are asked NOT to walk between buses at any time. This is for
everyone’s safety. Thank you for your cooperation!
SCHOOL BUS SAFETY
A large number of students are transported to the school daily by bus. The driver of a school bus
assumes a vast amount of responsibility to see that students are transported to and from school
safely each day. Since it is a job demanding full attention, each student will be expected to
cooperate fully with the driver. The driver possesses the same jurisdiction on the school bus, as
does the teacher in the classroom. In order to enhance the safe operation of a school bus, Argos
Community School system has established the following school bus regulations in compliance with
Indiana Code 20-27-10-2.
1. Each pupil shall be located immediately upon entering the bus in a place assigned by the
driver. The bus driver has the right to establish a seating plan, and to change it at his/her
discretion.
2. No student shall stand or move from place to place while the bus is in motion.
3. Loud, boisterous, or profane language and other improper conduct shall not be tolerated.
Improper conduct may be defined as teasing, scuffling, tripping, holding, hitting, or using
hands, feet, or body in any other objectionable manner. Similar rules outlining improper
behavior in the classroom or school where the student attends will also apply.
4. No windows or doors will be opened or closed except by permission of the bus driver. When
permission is given, windows may be lowered only to the line clearly marked at the side of
each window. No part of the body should be extended through the window opening.
5. No student shall enter or leave the bus until it has come to a full stop and the bus driver has
opened the door.
6. Each student SHOULD BE WAITING AT HIS/HER BOARDING STATION WHEN THE
SCHOOL BUS ARRIVES. Unless a driver is early, he/she is not required to wait for the
student. It is the responsibility of the student to be at the bus stop at the regular pick-up time.
7. A driver has the authority to suspend a student for one (1) day for improper conduct. Should
there be further problems, that driver may request that the student be denied the privilege of
riding the school bus for up to the remainder of the year.
8. Students have responsibility to help keep the bus clean. Objects should not be deposited in the
bus. No eating or drinking will be allowed.
9. The use of alcohol, tobacco products, or any illegal substance will result in suspension for the
remainder of the year and will be reported to individual school authorities for further action.
10. Any act of excessive violence or destruction will be dealt with severely.
11. If there is a question on the transportation of a particular item, the bus driver/principal should
be consulted before transportation takes place.
12. Students are subject to both the rules of the bus and the rules of the school that they attend.
The student should respect and cooperate with the drivers, as that student would extend to a
teacher or administrator in the school where he/she attends.
Please remember, to ride a bus is a privilege extended to students, not a right. It can be
guaranteed by thoughtful and cooperative conduct and compliance with the above regulations.
STUDENT DRIVER’S LICENSES
A driver’s license or a learner’s permit may not be issued to an individual less than eighteen (18)
years of age who meets any of the following conditions:
1. Is a habitual truant.
2. Is under at least a second suspension from school for the school year.
3. Is under an expulsion from school.
4. Has withdrawn from school, for a reason other than financial hardship and the withdrawal was
reported before graduating.
STUDY HALL REGULATIONS
You must have study materials, books or reading material when you report to study hall.
Students who wish to study in another area shall present a pass to the study hall supervisor. Study
hall supervisors may issue a 15-minute library pass for students to get a book to read.
Passes for more than 15 minutes must be written by a classroom teacher.
Students are to work individually unless consent is given by the supervisor to do otherwise.
Visits to the restroom, lockers, phone and so on should be taken care of during the passing
periods.
Failure to observe study hall regulations may result in a discipline referral.
TEXTBOOKS AND ELECTRONICS
Students are responsible for the books, including textbooks, library books and school issued
student devices. This means that if another person damages your books or computer you should
report it immediately to the supervising teacher. If you have lost a book or electronic device, act as
follows:
Look for it before reporting it “lost” or “stolen”. Check where you last had it, and ask the teacher.
If you still fail to locate the book, report it at the main office.
You are responsible for paying for any lost items. Arrangements should be made with the
administration office.
VISITORS
All visitor requests must be approved by the principal or designee and must sign in and wear name
badges provided by Argos Community Schools.
WORK PERMITS
Work permits are issued in the high school office.
Before a work permit may be issued all required information (work permit, identification
requirements –when needed, letter signed by parents, student and employer regarding attendance
and grades) must be received.
Under Indiana law, school corporations have the right to deny a work permit to a student whose
academic performance does not meet the school corporation’s standards or whose attendance is
not in good standing. They also have the right to revoke a work permit previously issued to a
student if the school determines that there has been a significant decrease in the student’s
academic status or attendance after he/she begins work. When it appears that a job is detrimental
to a student’s academic status, it is our responsibility to advise the parents and employer so we
can work together to ensure that the student’s education remains the primary focus.
Therefore, it is important for students, parents, and employers to know the guidelines that
accompany the responsibility of the working teen.
GRADES:
• Work Permit Issued = Five (5) credit classes must be a passing grade and no “F” grades.
• Probationary Work Permit Issued= One (1) “F” grade
• NO Work Permit Issued= Two (2) or More “F” grades
1. A work permit will be issued if the student passed five (5) credit classes, and did not
have an “F” grade on the most recent report card.
2. A probationary work permit will be issued if the student passed five (5) credit classes,
and has one (1) “F” grade.
3. If a student does not pass five (5) credit classes or receives an “F” grade after a work
permit has been issued:
The student’s parents and employer will be sent a warning letter, and the student will be
placed on probation for the next grading period.
4. If the student does not pass all five (5) credit classes, or receives an “F” grade during
the probationary period:
The school will revoke the work permit for the next grading period and the parents and
employer will be notified.
5. The work permit will be reissued to the student at the conclusion of the current grading
period if all five (5) credit classes are passed and when the student does not receive an “F”
grade on his/her report card.
Note: Grades will be checked at the end of each 9-week grading period. Semester exam grades
are not included in this.
ATTENDANCE:
1. A student may not be absent from school more than 10% of the days in a grading period.
Excused absences are not counted against the student. Only limited excused, unexcused and
unverified absences will be counted regarding a student’s work permit status.
2. If, during a semester, a student with a work permit receives his/her 8th limited/unexcused
absence:
The student‘s employer and parents will be sent a warning letter, and the student will be placed
on probation for the next grading period.
3. If a student with an active work permit receives his/her 9th limited/unexcused absence:
The school will revoke the student’s work permit for the next grading period and the employer
and parents will be notified.
4. The work permit will be reissued if the student’s attendance reaches an acceptable level during
the next grading period.
5. Excessive tardiness to school will affect a student’s work permit as per the following guidelines:
• 2nd Tardy to School: WRITTEN WARNING to student, parent, employer
• 3rd Tardy to School: 2nd WARNING to student, parent, and employer. Employer is
encouraged
to reduce the student’s weekly work hours.
• 4th Tardy to School: WORK PERMIT IS REVOKED.
Should the work permit be revoked at the end of the school year, special provisions will be given to
that student and he/she will be allowed to work during the summer while school is not in session.
However, such students will lose their work permit at the start of the new school year until they
meet the attendance and grade standards established by the school for receiving a work permit.
The student has the right to appeal the decision, but the school will override its decision only upon
a student’s demonstration of just cause. Appeals are made to the school principal in writing.
PUPIL SERVICES AND HEALTH SERVICES
PARENTAL JURISDICTION/EMANCIPATION
A student who is 18 years old and is still living and being supported by the student’s
parent/guardian is not emancipated for purposes of school policy and procedures or in matters
regarding attendance problems. A student is emancipated when he supports himself and is not
dependent on his parents for support, files a separate tax return, maintains a separate residence,
and has been documented in court. Proof of emancipation of a student must be filed with the
Principal’s office.
DRUG TESTING PROGRAM
The complete Drug Testing Policy is on file in the high school office.
Students to Be Tested
The following students (referred to as “Student” or “Students”) of the School Corporation will be
included in the random testing as hereinafter provided:
1. Student athletes.
2. Students that participate in extra-curricular activities.
3. Band and/or choir students that participate in extra-curricular performances.
4. Student Drivers.
5. As well as those students who volunteer to participate in this program.
As a condition for students to participate in athletics and/or other extra-curricular activities and/or to
participate in any band or choir performance and /or to drive a motorized vehicle to and from
school, the student must abide by the terms of this program, including the consent to this program
and random drug testing. By consenting to the handbook, you are consenting to the “Drug testing
Program and Policy”. A student shall be prohibited from participating in athletics and other
extra-curricular activities and driving to and from school, or in the case of band and choir students,
shall be prohibited from participating in any band or choir performances, unless the student and
parent/guardian consents to this program. Failure to consent will result in non-participation.
The implementation of this program will not affect the policies, practices or rights of the
Argos Community Schools in dealing with drug, alcohol, or tobacco possession or use
where reasonable or probable cause is obtained by means other than the random sampling
provided within this program.
Consequences for Violations
The following are consequences for violations of this program, including testing “positive” for drugs
and/or alcohol and/or tobacco:
First Offense
Suspension from all athletic participation for twenty-five percent (25%) of the scheduled contests of
the student’s sport, suspension from all other extra-curricular participation for twenty-five percent
(25%) of the activities for the school year, suspension of driving privileges for twenty-five percent
(25%) of the school year; suspension from any participation in any band or choir performance for
twenty-five percent (25%) of the performances for the current season (the “current season” as
established by the band director regarding band and the choir director regarding choir), suspension
from agriculture judging teams for twenty-five (25%) of the activities for the school year.
If the student commits the violation at a time late in the school year, athletic season, and/or other
extra-curricular season, when the twenty-five percent (25%) total consequences cannot be fully
implemented and satisfied by the student, the consequences for violations of this program shall be
carried over pro-rata into the next school year or succeeding school years regarding driving
privileges and participation in any band or choir performances, and in the case of athletics and
other extra-curricular activities, the consequences for violations of this program shall be carried
over pro-rata to the next sport and/or other extra-curricular activity participated in by the student, or
if necessary, into the next school year or succeeding school years.
Second Offense
Suspension from athletic participation and contests for one (1) calendar year, suspension from all
other extra-curricular participation and activities for one (1) calendar year, suspension of driving
privileges for one (1) calendar year, and suspension from participation in any band or choir
performances for one (1) calendar year.
A suspended student may be required to continue with random drug testing and attend drug
education programs.
Third Offense
Suspension of driving privileges, suspension from all athletics and other extra-curricular activities,
and suspension from participation in all band and choir performances for the remainder of the
student’s school career.
The extra-curricular “season” shall be defined as any day falling between the first and last days of
the school year, and any summer activities sponsored by the School Corporation or any school
organization. The athletic season shall be defined as commencing with the first practice and ending
with the athletic awards recognition or the final event, whichever occurs last.
“School career” shall be defined as junior high and high school.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, if a student tests “positive” and is found
to be in violation of this program, the student, at the sole cost of the student and/or the student’s
parent/guardian, shall submit to retesting and receive a “negative” test before reinstatement.
Additionally, students in band or choir under suspension shall be suspended from participating in
the performances but not the academic portion of either band or choir, and during such suspension
the student will not have his/her grade lowered for not participating in performances, unless the
student fails to attend a performance and fulfill his/her duties and obligations as required by his/her
teacher.
Students participating in ICE or Vocational School and fail a test will be prohibited from driving to
school, to their ICE job site, or to their Vocational School site after their first violation. Upon this first
violation their employer will be notified of the fact that the student has failed the test. If the student
fails the next test given within a two-week time period after the first failure they will be dropped from
ICE or Vocational School with an “F” and will be assigned back to AHS.
Failure to provide a sample in the time limit allowed for samples to be collected, or
providing a sample that has been tampered with will be considered as failing the test.
Disciplinary action will be taken according to the listed consequences listed in this section
concerning ‘drug testing.’
GUIDANCE SERVICES
We believe our main responsibility is to make ourselves available to students in need of
counseling. During the school year the elementary counselor has the following topics that he works
with each classroom: Study Skills, Anger Management, Grief, and Self Esteem
Working with the faculty is a part of this responsibility. Below are the main areas we think are our
priorities in working with students and teachers:
Students
Teachers
Parents
Community
Help with personal
problems.
Consult about
students with special
needs.
Arrange conferences
between teachers and
parents.
Work with community
resource people.
Help develop self
concepts, sense of
worth and dignity.
Serve as link between
students and faculty.
Help parents
understand the
students’ abilities and
aptitude.
Act as a referral
service.
Help develop decision
making skills.
Provide current and
clear cumulative
records.
Help make parents
aware of school
services.
Serve as a link
between faculty and
community.
Provide career
information.
Aid in student
evaluation.
GUIDELINES FOR DEALING WITH STUDENTS WHO MAY DO POTENTIAL HARM
TO SELVES
1. Upon knowledge of a student who may be writing, talking or in other ways indicating the
potential to do harm to self, this information is referred to the guidance office so that a
guidance counselor can evaluate the legality of the situation.
2. The counselor then addresses the situation with the student directly to assess the status of the
student or to ascertain the validity of the information. The school nurse or other school
personnel may have already talked with this student, but notification is always made to the
guidance office and the parents of this student.
3. In most cases the principal of the building is notified of the concern about the student.
4. Upon agreement with the guidance counselors, the next appropriate step is notification of the
parents. This notification will include explicit description of the concern, and will share the
information that the student may be giving indication of a potential suicide.
5. Documentation is made of notification to parents and about the process of communication and
is kept in a confidential folder in the guidance counselor’s office. This information is then
passed on to the guidance office as the student progresses through the school system, i.e.
elementary information to junior high, junior high information to high school.
6. The school may elect to report this student to Child Protective Services, but it is not a duty by
present Indiana Code. Reason to report may include:
a. If a student wants to harm himself/herself due to a situation at home that may indicate
abuse/neglect.
b. If this potential to harm self is a repeated threat with serious intention as assessed by
the counselor, and parents have not followed through with appropriate evaluation and
treatment.
c. If parents do not accept this information as serious, and the counselor believes there
will not be adequate follow through to insure the safety of the student.
7. Follow-up information is gathered as appropriate—may result in phone call to parents or
meeting with student and guidance counselor as needed.
INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS & SURVEYS
The parent or guardian of a child enrolled in a school within the Argos Community Schools
Corporation shall be entitled to inspect any instructional materials, which will be used in connection
with a survey, a personal analysis, or an evaluation, which is not a direct part of the academic
instruction. Instructional materials include teachers’ manuals, student texts, films, other video
materials, or tapes.
Any complaints arising under this policy may be submitted in accordance with policy #6144 for
parent (public) complaints. No student shall be required without prior written consent of the
student’s parent or guardian, or prior consent of a student if the student is an adult or is
emancipated, to submit to a survey, a personal analysis or an evaluation not directly related to the
academic instruction which reveals information concerning:
1. Political affiliations;
2. Religious beliefs or practices;
3. Mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the student or his/her family;
4. Sex behavior and attitude;
5. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating and demeaning behavior;
6. Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
7. Legally recognized privileged and analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers,
physicians and ministers; or
8. Income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or
for receiving financial assistance under such program).
9. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures
by the Argos Community School District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name
and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5901
Any consent form used in compliance with this policy must state the contents and nature of the
personal analysis, survey, or evaluation. (Legal Ref.: IC 20-30-5-17)
IMMUNIZATIONS
Immunizations are also used to protect your child against certain diseases as well as other children
in school. In accordance with state law, Indiana code
20-34-4-2,
you are required to furnish -- no
later than the first day of school after child’s enrollment -- proof of your child’s immunization status,
either as a written document from the health care provider who administered the immunizations or
documentation provided from the state immunization data registry. By doing so, this will prevent
any interruption to your student’s attendance at the start of the school year. No child shall be
permitted to attend school past the first day unless a waiver from the school is obtained (a student
may be removed from school for failure to comply with the immunization requirements IC
20-34-4-5). The waiver referred to may not be granted for longer than 20 days and must be
accompanied by a written statement from a doctor or local health department official explaining the
delay. This written statement must include a time schedule approved by a doctor or health
department official for completion of such immunization. Exemptions to immunization requirements
shall be granted, in accordance with state law, only for medical or religious objections. Any waivers
or exemptions must be submitted annually.
Minimum Immunization Requirements for school Entry 2017-2018 for grades Pre-K-12 are as
follows:
2017-2018 School Year
IN State Department of Health
School Immunization Requirements
Updated November 2015
3-5 Years Old
3 Hep B
4 DTaP
3 Polio
1 MMR
1 Varicella
**Annual
Influenza
K - 4
3 Hep B
5 DTaP
4 Polio
2 MMR
2 Varicella
2 Hep A
(Hepatitis A)
**Annual
Influenza
5th Grade
3 Hep B
5 DTaP
4 Polio
2 MMR
2 Varicella
**2 Hep A
**Annual
Influenza
Grades 6
3 Hep B
5 DTaP
4 Polio
2 MMR
2 Varicella
2 Hep A
1 Tdap
1 MCV4
**2HPV
Annual
Influenza
7th-11th
3 Hep B
5 DTaP
4 Polio
2 MMR
2 Varicella
1 Tdap
1 MCV4
**Annual
Influenza
2Hep A
2/3HPV
Grade 12
3 Hep B
5 DTaP
4 Polio
2 MMR
2 Varicella
2 Hep A
1 Tdap
2 MCV4.
**Annual
Influenza
2MenB
2/3HPV
** and underlined = RECOMMENDED VACCINATION
MEDICATION
No student may carry any medication or pills without the approval of the school nurse and principal,
unless they require self-administration. A student with an acute or chronic disease or medical
condition may possess and self-administer medication that must be administered on an emergency
basis while the student is on school grounds, or off school grounds, at a school activity, function, or
event if the student’s parent files an annual authorization that includes a written statement from the
student’s physician for the student to self-administer the medication. Argos Community schools are
not civilly liable for damages as a result of self-administration in compliance with the law. All
medication must be brought to the nurse’s office and dispensed from there. Any medication for
student use during the school day MUST be kept and administered by the school nurse, the
principal or the secretary. For BOTH nonprescription and prescription medicine a medication form
must be completed and signed by a parent or guardian before any medication can be
administered. For prescription medicine, a medical doctor’s prescription MUST accompany the
medicine with the dosage clearly detailed. Parents of students in grades K-6 should bring in
any medication that is to be disbursed during school hours to the nurse’s office, located in
the High School office. These procedures are meant to protect both the student and the school.
School personnel are prohibited from sending medication home with a student, below grade nine
(9), except medication possessed by a student for self-administration under I.C.
20-33-8-13.
Students in high school may take home medication with parent and nurse permission. Prescription
pain medication and stimulants must be brought to and taken from school by a parent or guardian.
PERMISSION TO TREAT AND TRANSFER
By consenting to the handbook, I agree that whenever my child is involved in an Argos Community
School activity and I am unavailable or otherwise unable to provide authorization directly, I grant
the school personnel the authority to act for me on behalf of my minor child and to provide all
things deemed necessary for my child’s health and safety. It is understood that every effort to
contact me will be made prior to transfer/treatment.
I hereby give my permission to transport my student by ambulance to the nearest emergency
facility when urgent care is deemed necessary. I understand the family is responsible for the cost
of the transfer and any medical treatment received. In the event I am unable to arrive to the
hospital prior to my child, I hereby give permission to the emergency staff to render ANY and ALL
emergency care until my arrival.
I also understand that my child’s medical information is essential to plan appropriate care, and by
consent to the handbook, allow Argos Community Schools to release any information that may
help in caring for my child to any first responder and hospital personnel necessary. It is understood
this information is to remain confidential.
PEER CONFLICTS
Students are encouraged to notify staff members and especially their guidance counselors of
conflicts with their peers. Peer mediation is a positive way to communicate concerns,
misunderstandings, and problems students are experiencing. More information regarding this
program can be acquired through the guidance office.
SCHOOL MESSENGER NOTIFICATION SYSTEM
The School Messenger Notification System provides timely communication to parents, staff and the
community on matters such as attendance for junior-senior high school students, low lunch
account balances, general interest activities, and school emergencies. With this system you can
choose how you want to receive your information: text, email, or phone call. If you have any
questions, please contact the high school office.
SCHOOL NURSE
The school provides a nurse who is on duty Monday through Friday. The nurse is responsible for
the total school health program and also looks after emergency school situations such as illness
and accidents, which occur during the school day.
a. Students who become ill at school must report to their teacher and obtain a pass to the nurse’s
office.
b. Students with a personal injury, other than an emergency, must report to their teacher and
obtain a pass to the nurse’s office.
c. Students shall not contact parents on their own, to be picked up, without FIRST consulting with
the school nurse. If parent comes to pick up child and nurse has not been consulted, this will
result in an unexcused absence.
d. No student will be sent home unless a parent or guardian is contacted.
STUDENTS ARE TO BE FEVER FREE BEFORE RETURNING TO SCHOOL.
NO STUDENT SHOULD LEAVE THE BUILDING BECAUSE OF AN ACCIDENT OR ILLNESS
WITHOUT FIRST RECEIVING PERMISSION FROM THE OFFICE OR SCHOOL NURSE.
STUDENTS LEAVING WITHOUT SUCH PERMISSION WILL BE CONSIDERED UNEXCUSED.
STUDENT RECORDS AND FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS & PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)
COMPLIANCE
The Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act of 1974 relates to the provisions under which, and by
whom, student’s records may be examined. The following are the general guidelines relative to this
act:
1. Parents or those having legal custody, of students under the age of 18 years and currently
enrolled in the school corporation, have a right to inspect the student’s record.
2. If a student is 18 years old or attending an institution of postsecondary education, the
permission to review his/her record is accorded only to the student.
3. Parents have a right to examine their children’s records at reasonable times and with written
request to the office of the superintendent. The request shall specify the specific records that
the parents wish to view.
4. The parent has a right to request that a record be corrected if it is found to be inaccurate,
misleading, or is otherwise in violation of the privacy or other legal rights of the student.
5. School officials, teachers, who have a legitimate interest, officials from other schools accepting
a transfer and certain representatives of the state and federal government may examine
records when and if appropriate.
6. Any person may receive a copy of the records if the parent executed written consent specifying
the records to be released, the reason for such release, and the person who will receive them.
7. Senate Enrolled Act 204 authorizes a school corporation or other entity to which the Federal
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) apply to release educational/discipline
records to a juvenile justice agency. The disclosure or reporting is to assist the juvenile justice
system to serve, before adjudication, the student whose records are being released.
8. Upon request, the School discloses education/disciplinary records without consent to officials
of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
9. Certain “directory information” about students may be released to newspapers, colleges’ civic
organizations and other similar agencies as well as published on the school’s website, in
programs for athletics, music and other presentations associated with the school. The Argos
Community Schools’ Corporation designates the following items as “Directory Information”:
student’s name, parent’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field
of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of
members of athletic teams, date of attendance, degrees and awards received, most recent
previous school attended, photograph and videotape not used in a disciplinary matter, student
work displayed at the discretion of the teacher with grade displayed. The corporation may
disclose any of those items without prior written consent, unless notified in writing to the
contrary.
10. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures
by the Argos Community School District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name
and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5901
The Board of School Trustees has adopted a policy implementing the provisions of this Act. A copy
of this policy and the Act are on file and available for inspection at the office of the Superintendent.
