SOUTH DELTA
SCHOOL DISTRICT
Sharkey and Issaquena Counties
STUDENT
HANDBOOK
South Delta Elementary School
South Delta Middle School
South Delta High School
South Delta Vocational Complex
2
SOUTH DELTA SCHOOL DISTRICT
MISSION:
TO CREATE A SAFE AND POSITIVE LEARNING
ENVIRONMENT THAT WILL AFFORD
ALL STUDENTS OPPORTUNITIES
FOR MAXIMUM GROWTH
VISION:
TO AFFORD STUDENTS A QUALITY
EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT THAT WILL
PRODUCE PRODUCTIVE, COMPETITIVE,
AND SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS IN THIS
GLOBAL TE
CHNOLOGICAL SOCIETY
3
ENCOURAGEMENT
STRIVE TO BE THE BEST IN LIFE
“KNOW YOURSELF, LIKE YOURSELF, BE YOURSELF.”
- Chuck Swindoll
DISCIPLINE
IF YOU DON’T WANT TO LEARN,
YEARS OF SCHOOLING WILL TEACH YOU VERY LITTLE.
BUT IF YOU WANT TO BE TAUGHT,
THERE IS NO END TO WHAT YOU CAN LEARN.
THIS INCLUDES BEING WILLING TO ACCEPT DISCIPLINE AND CORRECTION
AND TO LEARN FROM THE WISDOM OF OTHERS.
A PERSON WHO REFUSES CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM
HAS A PROBLEM WITH PRIDE.
SUCH A PERSON IS UNLIKELY TO LEARN VERY MUCH
AND WILL NOT SUCEED IN LIFE.
“GO CONFIDENTLY IN THE DIRECTION OF YOUR DREAMS.
LIVE THE LIFE YOU HAVE IMAGINED.”
- Henry David Thoreau
“PEOPLE WITH GOALS SUCCEED BECAUSE
THEY KNOW WHERE THEY ARE GOING.”
- Earl Nightingale
THE TRAGEDY OF LIFE DOESN’T LIE IN NOT REACHING YOUR GOAL.
THE TRAGEDY LIES IN HAVING NO GOAL TO REACH.”
- Benjamin Mays
“HOLD YOURSELF FOR A HIGHER STANDARD
THAN ANYONE ELSE EXPECTS OF YOU.”
-Henry Ward Beecher
4
SOUTH DELTA SCHOOL DISTRICT CALENDAR
SCHOOL YEAR 2007 – 2008
July 3 & 4 Fourth of July Holiday
July 26 First Day for Vocational Teachers
August 6 8:00 – 11:00 a.m. – General Session (High School Auditorium)
August 6-8 Professional Development
August 8 Teacher Preparation (12:00 p.m. – Until)
August 9 First Full Day for Students
August 22 Professional Development (Short Day- School Dismissed at 1:30 p.m.)
August 29 Professional Development (Student Holiday – 8:00 – 3:00 p.m.)
September 7 Homecoming (School Dismissed at 1:30 p.m.)
September 10-11 CDDRE Classrooms Walk Through/Professional Development
September 3 Labor Day (Holiday)
September 12 Professional Development (Short Day- School Dismissed at 1:30 p.m.)
September 13 Mid-Term Report Card
September 24 Biology I (SATP Online)
September 25 U.S. History from 1877 (SATP Online) (SATP Online)
September 26 Algebra I (SATP – Online)
September 26 Professional Development (Short Day- School Dismissed at 1:30 p.m.)
September 27 English II Multiple Choice (SATP Online)
September 28 English II Writing
September 28 Make-up (English II, Biology I, U.S. History from 1877 and Algebra I)
October 1 Make – Up English II Writing
October 10-12 First Nine Weeks Exams (46 days)
October 15 Second Nine Weeks Begins
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October 17 Professional Development (Short Day- School Dismissed at 1:30 p.m.)
October 23-24 CDDRE Classrooms Walk Through/Professional Development
October 24 Report Card Pickup (1:30 – 5:00 p.m.)
November 6 Re-test - FLE (Math Only)
November 7 Re-test – FLE – Make-up
November 7 Professional Development
November 14 Mid–Term Report Card
November 19-23 Thanksgiving Holidays
November 27-28 CDDRE Classrooms Walk Through/Professional Development
December 3 Re-test – Biology I (SATP – Online)
December 4 Re-test – U.S. History from 1877 (SATP – Online)
December 5 Re-test – Algebra I (SATP – Online)
December 6 Re-test – English II Multiple- Choice (SATP – Online)
December 7 English II Writing
December 7 Re-test Make-up Algebra I, Biology I, U.S. History from 1877 and
English II Multiple- Choice Make-up
December 10 Re-test Make –up – English II Writing
December 19-21 Second Nine Weeks Exams (44 Days)
December 24 Christmas Holidays (December 24 – January 7)
January 7 Second Semester Begins – Third Nine Weeks Begins
January 7 Professional Development (8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Student Holiday)
January 21 State Holiday (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.)
January 16 Report Card Pickup (1:30 – 5:00 p.m.)
January 23 Professional Development (Short Day – School Dismissed at 1:30 p.m.)
January 23-24 CDDRE Classrooms Walk Through/Professional Development
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February 6 Mid-Term Report Card
February 13 Professional Development (Short Day – School Dismissed at 1:30 p.m.)
February 18 President Day (Holiday)
February 19 FLE Test (Math – Online)
February 20 FLE Test (Math – Make-Up)
February 26-27 CDDRE Classrooms Walk Through/Professional Development
March 5 Mississippi Science Test – Grade 5 and Grade 8
March 6 Mississippi Science Test Grade 5 and Grade 8 (Make-up)
March 10-14 Spring Break
March 18-20 Third Nine Weeks Exams (46 Days)
March 21-24 Easter Holiday
March 24 Fourth Nine Weeks Begins
March 27 English II Writing (SATP)
March 28 English II Writing (SATP – Make-up)
March 25-April 4 Mississippi Career Planning and Assessment System (MS-CPAS)
March 31 Re-test – Biology I, (SATP Online)
April 1 Re-test – U.S. History from 1877 (SATP Online)
April 2 Re-test – Algebra I (SATP Online)
April 3 Re-test – English II Multiple Choice (SATP Online)
April 2 Report Card Pick-Up (1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
April 9 Professional Development (Short Day- School Dismissed at 1:30 p.m.)
April 15 FLE Test (Math – Online)
April 16 FLE Test Online (Make- Up)
April 23 Mid-Term Report Card
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April 29 Biology I (SATP)
April 30 U.S. History (SATP)
May 1 Algebra I (SATP)
May 2 English II Multiple-Choice (SATP)
May 5 Make –Up (Algebra I, Biology I, U.S. History, and English II)
May 13 MCT2 – Grades 3-8 Reading/Language Arts
May 14 MCT2 – Grades 3-8 Mathematics
May 15 Make – Up MCT2 Grades 3-8 (Reading, Language Arts, and Math)
May 19-20 Seniors-Fourth Nine Weeks Exams
May 20-22 Fourth Nine Weeks Exams (44 days)
May 23 Last Day for Students
May 23 Graduation (School Dismissed at 1:30 p.m.)
May 26-27 Teachers’ Workdays
June 4 Last Day for Vocational Teachers
June 4 Report Card Pick-Up
June 4 CDDRE/Professional Development
*********
Students Days -- 180
Teachers and Assistant Teacher Days -- 187
Vocational Teachers -- 200
*************
1
st
Nine Weeks Term – August through October (46 days)
2
nd
Nine Weeks Term – October through December (44 days)
3
rd
Nine Weeks Term – January through March (46 days)
4
th
Nine Weeks Term – March through May (44 days)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mission Statement …………………………………………………………………. ……... 2
Vision Statement.................................................................................................................... 2
School Calendar..………………………………………………………………………….4-7
Table of Contents…………………………………………………………………….......8-10
Administration and Staff.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ……………………11
Accidents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …13
Alcohol Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …13
Alternative School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …13
Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …13
Assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-15
Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-15
Automobiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..15
Before and after School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Book Bags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16-17
Bus Riders……………………………….. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...17
Cafeteria. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...17
Campus Deliveries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …18
Campus Disturbances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …18
Change of Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …..18
Change of Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …18
Changing Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …18
Citizenship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ….19
Civil Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ……19
Class Officers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ……19
Closed Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …..19
Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ……19
Corporal Punishment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …………………..19-20
Parent/Guardian Consent for Corporal Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ……………….....21
Correspondence Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Cutting Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....22
Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. ..22
Distracting Articles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..23
Gang Activity…………………………………………………………………………….….22
Dress Code and Uniform Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …...22-24
Due Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..25-28
Early Dismissal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 28
Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …. 28
Fighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …. 29
Financial Responsibility of Parents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ….29
Fireworks, Firearms or Weapons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 29
Food and Drinks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . … 30
Gambling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . … 29
GED Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Grading, Promotion, Retention, and Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29-33
Required Courses………………………………………………………………………........34
9
Graduation Requirements………………………………………………………….……37-38
Requirements for Admission to Public Universities in Mississippi………………………..38
Types of Diplomas………………………………………………………………………….39
Subject Area Graduation Requirements…………………………………………………….40
Rank in Class………………………………………………………………………………..41
Honor Cords…………………………………………………………………………………41
Course Load…………………………………………………………………………………41
Academic Recognition………………………………………………………………………41
Guidance…………………………………………………………………………………….41
Harassment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …. 42
Homecoming. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . … 43
Homerooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 43
Homebound Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ….43
Home Schooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ….44
Honors and Recognitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …44
Illness or Injury at School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ……... 44
Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Leaving School During the Day. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Library Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Lockers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Lost and Found. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Mississippi School Safety Act of 2001 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Parental Conferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Parent Volunteers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Personal Hygiene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Physical Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Posters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Pregnancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Profanity, Vulgarity and Obscenity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Prom and Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Residency Requirements and Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Restrooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Student’s Rights…………………………………………………………………………….49
Student’s Responsibilities…………………………………………………………………..50
Parent’s Responsibilities………………………………………………………………........50
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . … 51
Smoke-Free Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …51
Social Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Sororities, Fraternities, and Secret Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Special Health Problems and Medication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ………..52
Stealing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........52
Student Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Student Participation in School Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...53
Academic Rule…………………………………………………………………………..53-54
Permission Form and Covenant Not to Sue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 55
Senate Bill 2239 Mississippi School Safety Act of 2001 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....55
School Day Pictures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . … 56
10
Student Records. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....57
Student Valuables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...57
Tardy/Reporting to School Late . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …. 57
Telephone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Textbooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57-58
Tobacco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …58
Vandalism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …58
Visitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . … 58
Weapons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . … 59
Withdrawals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …...59
Student Behavior Chart of Consequences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60-61
Student Acceptable Use Policy Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .....62
Letter of Receipt of student handbook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... 63
11
SOUTH DELTA SCHOOL DISTRICT
ADMINISTRATION AND STAFF
2007-08
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Mr. Melvin Young--------------------------------------------------------------------------- President
Mr. King T. Evans --------------------------------------------------------------------Vice President
Mrs. Margaret Marshall -------------------------------------------------------------------- Secretary
Mr. James Carter------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Member
Mr. Dorsey Johnson -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Member
CENTRAL OFFICE ADMINISTRATION AND STAFF
Superintendent -------------------------------------------------------------Mrs. Katherine Tankson
662-873-4302
Office Manager/Secretary ------------------------------------------------------ Ms. Connie Green
662-873-4302
Assistant Superintendent/Federal Programs/Personnel --------------------- Mr. Sammie Ivy
662-873-6225
Special Education/504 Coordinator ----------------------------------------- Mrs. Mary Wallace
662-873-6225
Curriculum Director/Professional Development -------------------- Ms. Constance Baldwin
662-873-6225
Curriculum Assistant ------------------------------------------------------- Ms. Monica Jackson
662-873-6225
Curriculum Assistant ------------------------------------------------------- Ms. Barbara Lovette
662-873-6225
Technology Coordinator/ Technician ----------------------------------------- Mr. Randy Scott
662-873-6225
Business Manager --------------------------------------------------------------- Mrs. Pam Anthony
662-873-4294
Director of Food Services ------------------------------------------------------ Mrs. Diane Brown
662-873-4294
Payroll Clerk ------------------------------------------------------------- Mrs. Cassandra Williams
662-873-4294
Account Payable/Fixed Assets ----------------------------------------------- Ms. Brenda Lovette
662-873-4294
District Test Coordinator ------------------------------------------------ Mr. Charles Stephenson
662-873-4094
Director of Transportation ----------------------------------------------------- Mr. Willie Dorsey
662-873-4223
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SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
South Delta Elementary School
Principal -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ms. Lucille Lovette
662-873-4849
Lead Teacher -------------------------------------------------------------------- Mrs. Celeste Hankins
662-873-2454
Counselor ------------------------------------------------------------------- Mr. Charles Stephenson
662-873-4094
South Delta Middle School
Principal -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mr. James Tankson
662-873-6535
Assistant Principal -------------------------------------------------------------- Dr. Cassandra Banks
662-873-6535
Athletic Director ---------------------------------------------------------------- Mr. Larry Thomas
662-873-6535
Counselor ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Ms. Latisha Jones
662-873-6535
South Delta High School
Principal ---------------------------------------------------------------------------Mr. Isaac Haynes Jr.
662-873-4308
Assistant Principal --------------------------------------------------------------- Mr. Derrick Hooker
Counselor -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mrs. Mildred Cash
662-873-4308
Carson T. Seale Vocational Complex
Vocational Director ----------------------------------------------------- -- Mrs. Beverly Wilson
662-873-2029
Secretary ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Mrs. Lula Bell
662-873-2029
Counselor -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mrs. Brenda Grant
662-873-2029
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ACCIDENTS
All accidents that occur at school or school related activities must be reported immediately to the
person in charge and to the office.
ALCOHOL USE
No student, regardless of age, shall possess, consume, purchase, or distribute any alcoholic
beverage (a) on school property, (b) at any place where interscholastic athletic contest is taking
place, (c) on bus to and from school or school sponsored activity, during the course of any field
trip or activity sponsored by the Board of Education or its authorized agents. Likewise, no
student shall aid, abet, assist, or conceal the possession, consumption, purchase, or distribution of
any alcoholic beverage by any other student or student (a) on school property, (b) at any place
where an interscholastic athletic contest is taking place, (c) during the course of any field trip or
activity sponsored by the Board of Education or its authorized agents.
Any student violating these rules will be subject to discipline according to the general rules of
discipline.
ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL
A student may be suspended or removed from the classroom and placed in Alternative School
when it has been determined that:
A. The student’s presence in the regular classroom presents a danger of
physical harm to the student or to the individuals:
or
B. The student engaged in serious or persistent misbehavior that violates the
district’s published standards of conduct. Placement in the Alternative
School will be for nine weeks or more.
For further information contact the principal or review the Alternative Education
Handbook.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
All announcements for the day are announced over the P.A. system at the beginning of the first
period and at the end of the school day. Any announcement must be approved by the principal
prior to time for scheduled announcements. No bulletins can be posted without prior approval of
the building principal.
ASSEMBLIES
Students will sit with their homeroom teacher and proper behavior is mandatory. Assemblies
will be held in the auditorium/gymnatorium. At all times student’s behavior should be refined
and courteous. An indication of the cultural level of the school is the conduct of its student body
at an assembly. Whether guests are present or not, each student is personally responsible for the
impression made by the school as a whole. Unacceptable conduct includes whistling, uncalled-
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for clapping, boisterousness, booing, and talking during program. Specific consequences have
been identified and approved for assembly misbehavior. Please conduct yourselves
appropriately during all assemblies.
ATTENDANCE
‚ The school district will not allow extra curricular activities that require any student to miss
more than 20 class periods in courses for which grades and/or units of credit are issued
during the school year. (5/20 Rule)
‚ The school district will not participate in activities that require a student to have more
than five planned absences in the same class period in courses for which grades and/or
units of credit are issued. (5/20 Rule)
‚ The building-level administrator shall develop procedures that monitor activities, events,
field trips, etc. which might violate the minimum number of hours of instruction a student
should receive in any given subject.
‚ Students may not miss more than twenty (20) unexcused days in a yearly course in grades
K-12 and the vocational center. High School and Vocational Center the cumulative number
of absences for a semester course is ten (10) unexcused days, and a full year course is twenty
(20) days. Students will not receive course credit when they exceed the 10 and 20 day limits.
State law shall be followed in addressing excused and/or unexcused absences,
retention/exemptions.
‚ NO SOCIAL PROMOTION will be provided students. If failure is indicated at the end of
the school year, then the student's performance records will be reviewed by an external
review team to determine placement of grade and/or program that should be considered for
the student.
‚ There will be NO EXEMPTIONS from the nine weeks examinations.
Parents and/or guardians are responsible for their children being in school each day that they are
physically able. Criminal proceedings may be brought against parents for excessive and
inexcusable reasons for student absences.
Regular and punctual attendances on the part of all students are necessary for successful
accomplishment in school. Repeated tardiness and absences frequently cause students to become
discouraged and often fail. Absences will be reported to the School Attendance Officer daily.
Perfect Attendance
Perfect attendance shall be defined as no absences. Exceptions shall be school bus tardy or
school sponsored field trips.
15
ATTENDANCE LAW
Section1. Section 37-13-91, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:
37-13-91. (1) This section shall be referred to as the “Mississippi Compulsory School
Attendance Law.”
“Compulsory-school-aged child” means a child who has attained or will attain the age of
six (6) years on or before September 1 of the calendar year and who has not attained the age of
seventeen (17) years on or before September 1 of the calendar year, and shall include any child
who has attained or will attain the age of (5) years on or before September 1 and has enrolled in a
full-day public school kindergarten program. Provided, however, that the parent or guardian of
any child enrolled in a full-day public school kindergarten program shall be allowed to dis-enroll
the child from the program on a one-time basis, and such child shall not be deemed a
compulsory-school-age child until the child attains the age of six (6) years.
If a compulsory-school-aged child has not been enrolled in a school within
fifteen(15)calendar days after the first day of the school year at the school which such child is
eligible to attend or such child is enrolled, the school district superintendent shall, within two (2)
school days or within five (5) calendar days, whichever is less, report such absences to the school
attendance officer of the MS Department of Education.
The State Department of Education prescribes a uniform method for schools to utilize in
reporting such unlawful absences to the school attendance officer. The superintendent, or his
designee, shall also in the same manner report any student suspensions or student expulsion to
the school attendance officer.
When the school attendance officer has made all attempts to secure enrollment and/or
attendance of a compulsory-school-age child and is unable to effect said enrollment and/or
attendance, the attendance officer shall file a petition with the youth court under Section 43-21-
451. The youth court shall expedite a hearing to make an appropriate adjudication and a
disposition to ensure compliance with the Compulsory School Attendance Law.
AUTOMOBILES
High School student’s vehicles must be parked in the area in front of the school. Vehicles shall
be vacated and locked upon arriving at school. Students are prohibited from going to their cars
during the day. Students who drive personal cars to and from school must have a copy of a
valid drivers’ license and proof of insurance for vehicle.
Students must purchase a $5.00 decal for their car. All cars parked on campus without a decal
will be fined in the amount of $10.00.
Carson T. Seale Vocational Center
Students will not be allowed to bring personal vehicles to the vocational complex during class
time without prior approval of the vocational director.
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BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL
No student should be in the halls before the first bell, except to go to the office. The business
hours for all school will be from 6:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
No student should be in the building after 4:00 unless requested by a teacher or participating in
supervised activity, including library research.
Carson T. Seale Vocational Center
No students should be in the building after 3:30 p.m. unless requested by a teacher or
participating in a supervised activity. Groups using the building in the evening must have the
approval of the vocational director and must use the section of the building reserved for them
and leave all rooms and equipment in the proper condition to resume school the next day.
Groups must be supervised at all times by faculty personnel.
Students that walk home following the end of the school day, must stay in the classrooms until
the bus leaves the parking lot at the end of the day. These students will remain in their
classroom until all busses have left the campus.
BOOK BAGS
Students will be allowed to use regular book bags.
BUS RIDERS - STUDENTS WHO RIDE SCHOOL BUSES
Loading and Unloading
1. Be at your assigned loading zone on time.
2. Exercise extreme caution in getting to and from your assigned bus stop.
3. Look in both directions before stepping from behind parked cars.
4. Stay well off the roadway until the bus comes to a complete stop and the bus driver
indicates that it is safe to board.
5. Do not play on or near the road while waiting for the bus to arrive.
6. Never walk on the road when there is a sidewalk or pathway.
7. Always walk on the left side of the road facing on-coming traffic and step off the
road when a motor vehicle approaches.
8. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before trying to load/unload.
9. Use the handrail while getting on and off the bus.
10. If possible, wear white/light colored clothing or carry a flashlight when you walk on
the roadway at night in order that the motoring public might be aware of your
presence.
11. When you must cross the road to enter the bus, or after leaving the bus, always cross
in front of the bus.
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BEHAVIOR ON THE SCHOOL BUSES
While on the Bus
1. Do not distract the driver’s attention other than when necessary.
2. Talk to your friends in a normal tone and do not shout. Do not talk or make un-
necessary noise when the bus is approaching and crossing a railroad or a highway
intersection.
3. Keep head, hands and articles inside the bus. Do not throw anything out of windows.
4. Do not bring unauthorized articles on the bus. (i.e., pets, combustibles, large articles,
weapons, etc.).
5. Do not smoke or use alcoholic beverages.
6. Do not fight or scuffle.
7. Do not use profane language
8. Be courteous to and follow the instructions of the bus driver and safety patrol.
9. The same rules and regulations that apply in school apply to students while on the
school bus.
Note: Students should be on alert for all dangers and understand possible consequences
for not obeying the above rules. Riding the school bus is a privilege. The privilege can be
denied students by suspending them from school and from riding the bus for improper
conduct. Students riding on school buses may be filmed by use of a camcorder.
CAFETERIA
Students may bring a sack lunch and supplement it with a milk product from the cafeteria, but no
drinks can be brought into the cafeteria.
BREAKFAST and LUNCH is served daily. The cafeteria is maintained as a vital part of the
health program of the school. No food may be taken from the cafeteria. Food is not to be
eaten in the classroom during class hours.
In order to keep the cafeteria clean, attractive and orderly, the following must be observed:
• Keep the cafeteria line orderly
• Never push, run, or break in line
• Keep tables, chairs and floors clean
• Talk in a normal voice
• Eat at the table and never take food out of the cafeteria
• Pick up and dispose of dropped food
• Refrain from cheering, jeering, singing, or any unnecessary noise
• Empty all paper from tray and lunches into the proper container
• Return trays, dishes and silverware to the receiving window
• All rules of conduct apply in the cafeteria. No conduct which disrupts, interferes and/or
disturbs others will be allowed.
Any student violating these rules will be subject to disciplinary action(s) according to the general
rules of discipline.
18
CAMPUS DELIVERIES
Balloons, flowers, stuffed animals, toys, etc are distractions for students in class and can cause
havoc on school buses; therefore, no such deliveries will be accepted for students.
CAMPUS DISTURBANCES
The South Delta High School and Vocational Complex will not tolerate any major mass
disruptions by any student(s) in any form or for any reason. Any student who starts or
participates in a disturbance may be suspended from the high school or vocational complex,
immediately. Student(s) will not be able to reenter until satisfactory assurance has been given in
writing to the high school and/or vocational director by the pupil and his or her parents or
guardian that there will be no recurrence or this sort of behavior.
In case of campus disturbance on the high school campus, students are to use the following
procedures:
The bell will be sounded and all students are to remain in or return to their particular
class. Students eating lunch or on break are to immediately go to their next class.
Vocational students will report to the auditorium.
After a period of four minutes following the sound of the bell, teachers are to close the
classroom door and call roll.
Students not present for roll call will be identified as participating in the disturbance.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Students changing their address or telephone number during the school year are required to
report the changes to the office.
CHANGE OF SCHEDULE
Students will obtain a change of schedule form from their English teacher.
Changes will be made during the first four days of school. Change deadline may be
extended by the counselor and/or principal.
The counselor will approve or reject requests.
Requests will be returned to the English teacher.
Approved requests must be signed by all teachers affected by the changes.
Carson T. Seale Vocational Center
Any student who wishes to change his/her schedule must report to the vocational counselor.
Changes may only be made during the first four days of school.
CHANGING CLASSES
The bell is a reminder to the teacher that it is time to change classes. However, no class is
dismissed until the teacher gives the students permission to leave the classroom. Adequate time
is permitted for students to change classes. Students must maintain orderly behavior and always
move to the right in the corridors.
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CITIZENSHIP
School pride and good citizenship are important and expected. Your citizenship is a contribution
to our school image, our community, our state, and our nation. Good citizenship is a prerequisite
for your participation in all activities. Students who have outstanding citizenship records qualify
for special awards.
CIVIL EMERGENCIES
What parents should do in an emergency:
Do Not Phone the School – keep school lines open for emergency calls.
Keep civilian cars out of the area so emergency vehicles will have access to school.
All schools will immediately initiate a tornado drill in the event a tornado warning is
issued; and therefore, parents are encouraged not to pick up their child/children during
this time.
CLASS OFFICERS
Each class shall elect a president, vice-president, secretary and reporter.
Criteria for office:
First year in grade
Minimum of 2.5 GPA
Acceptable disciplinary report
CLOSED CAMPUS
South Delta High School and Vocational Complex operate a “closed campus” policy. Students
must stay on the school campus from the time they arrive until they are dismissed. In case of
emergency, students will contact their parent prior to leaving campus.
COMMUNICATION
Answering Questions/Resolving Concern/Solving Problems
COOPERATION between the HOME and SCHOOL is very important at any stage of your
child’s development. An unanswered question can often lead to a serious concern. If not
addressed, it can become a major problem. To avoid problems be sure to ask questions as soon as
they arise. The place to start is with your child’s teacher, and, if not resolved there, contact the
Principal.
CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
Corporal punishment shall be administered for discipline reasons only. Corporal punishment
shall not be administered because a student does not turn in an assignment or makes a failing
grade. Corporal punishment may never be used unless the student was informed
beforehand that specific misbehavior could occasion its use; and subject to this exception, it
should never be used as a first line of punishment.
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Paddling shall be the only form of corporal punishment. No student shall receive more than a
maximum of five (5) licks of the paddle and only to the fleshy part of the buttocks. A teacher or
principal must punish corporally in the presence of a second school official (teacher or
administrator) who must be informed beforehand, in the student’s presence of the reason(s)
for the punishment. Paddle specifications: Elementary school 14” long from end to end, 2” wide
and ¼” thick oak or ash wood used - middle and high schools,15” x 2” x 3/8”.
Spanking must not be inflicted with such force, or in such manner as to be considered cruel
and excessive. Therefore, reasonable and proper application of corporal punishment should be
based on such factors as ability of the student to bear it, age, size, sex and observed physical
strength, and gravity of the offense. Paddles shall not be on public display in the classrooms or
halls.
Parents may request that their children not be spanked by completing the form in this handbook
and delivering it to the building principal.
21
SOUTH DELTA SCHOOL DISTRICT
PARENT/GUARDIAN CONSENT FOR CORPORAL DISCIPLINE
Dear Parent/Guardian:
Maintaining proper discipline is essential for the success of any school. There are times when
the most effective means of administering discipline is to use corporal punishment. However,
parents may request that their children not be spanked. If so, please complete this form and
return to the principal.
_____ I give permission for my child, ____________________________________, to receive
corporal punishment.
_____ I do not give permission for my child,________________________________, to receive
corporal punishment. However, I understand that my child will be suspended from school in
place of corporal punishment or accept consequences as outline on pages 54-55 in this handbook
reflective of the infraction.
Parent/Guardian Signature:_______________________________ Date:____________
Please give at least 2 contact telephone numbers for us to place in your child’s records.
Phone #1 _____________________________________
Phone #2 _____________________________________
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CORRESPONDENCE COURSES
One unit may be earned through completing correspondence courses. No student will be allowed
to take correspondence work for credit in subjects offered in our school except Seniors that are to
graduate and Juniors who need one subject to be classified as a senior. A student may be
permitted to take correspondence work for enrichment purposes if the subject is not offered in
our school.
CUTTING CLASS
A student who is guilty of cutting class may be suspended for a parent conference and/or placed
in alternative/behavioral modification.
DISCIPLINE
All discipline plans of school districts shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
a. Parents, guardians/custodian of a student enrolled in South Delta School District shall be
responsible financially for his or her minor child’s destructive acts against school
property or persons.
b. Parents, guardians/custodians of a compulsory-school-age child enrolled in a public
school district may be requested to appear at school by the school attendance officer or an
appropriate school official for a conference regarding acts of the child specified above, or
for any other discipline conference regarding the acts of the child.
c. Parents, guardians/custodians of students enrolled in South Delta School District, who
refuse or willfully fail to attend a discipline conferences may be summoned by proper
notification by the superintendent of schools or the school attendance officer and be
required to attend such discipline conference.
d. Parents, guardians/custodian of a compulsory-school-age child enrolled in South Delta
School District shall be responsible for any criminal fines brought against any student for
unlawful activity occurring on school grounds or buses.
e. Any parent, guardian or custodian of South Delta School District student who (a) fails to
attend a discipline conference to which such parent, guardian or custodian has been
summoned under the provisions of this section, or (b) refuses or willfully fails to perform
any other duties imposed upon him or her under the provisions of this section, shall be
guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be subject to a fine not to exceed
Two Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($250.00).
f. As an alternative to suspension, the building principal may allow a student to remain in
school by having the parent, guardian or custodian, with the consent of the student’s
teacher or teachers, attend class with the student for a period of time specifically agreed
upon by the reporting teacher and school principal. If the parent, guardian or custodian
does not agree to attend class with the student or fails to attend class with the student, the
student shall be suspended in accordance with the code of student conduct and discipline
policies, of the school district. 37-11-53 (2001)
• The building principal may assign a student to In-School – Suspension (ISS)
as an alternative to suspension.
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Dress Code and Uniform Policy
The South District School District Board of Education approved the following dress code and
uniform policy for the 2007-2008 school term in their June 28, 2007, Board meeting:
DRESS CODE
SOUTH DELTA SCHOOL DISTRICT has adopted a MANDATORY uniform policy.
The following guidelines apply to male and female students.
• No undergarment will be considered appropriate as outer dress.
• Hats, caps, head bands, doo rags, head scarf or sunglasses are not to be worn in the
building, during the regular day or at indoor extracurricular events by males or females
students nor adults.
• No hair rollers/curlers will be allowed.
• Boys and girls will not be permitted to wear any type earrings on the eye brow, nose, lips
or tongue at any time while on school property.
• Revealing clothes shall not be worn to school or school sponsored events. This includes
cut-off tops, tank tube or halter tops, bathing suits, muscle shirts or clothes with holes, cut
or tears.
• No articles of clothing, jewelry, or accessories with offensive or inappropriate language,
symbols, or advertisements (such as alcohol or tobacco products) will be worn, including
gang-related paraphernalia, such as bandannas.
• Boys will not be permitted to wear any earrings, studs, clip-ons, loop-type earrings or
heavy chains necklace at any time while on school property or when participating in
school sponsored events.
• Appropriate undergarments must be worn.
• If conditions exist that require shirts out, principal must approve.
• Students must wear all activity dress wear or uniforms, such as band, JROTC, etc. in an
appropriate manner at all times.
• Button down shirts must be worn buttoned.
• No halters or halter dresses may be worn.
• Clothing shall not be excessively low in front or back. Dresses shall not be backless.
• Shirts, blouses shall be worn/tucked neatly into pants or skirts.
• Pants will be worn at the waistline with belts.
• Pants sizes must correspond to the waist size of the student, (no sagging).
• Shoes and sneakers (must be tied and/or buckled) and enclosed sandals may be worn.
• No shower shoes, house shoes, flip-flops or foam thongs
SCHOOL UNIFORMS
Tops:
• Red, gold or white tops- with collar, full button shirt or buttoned shirt w/splits on the
side, short or long sleeves
(No tank tops). Plain tops, no design
Bottoms: Pants-long/short/capris, skirts, dresses and jumpers-plain, no writing or designs
• Navy, khaki/tan
• No jogging pants
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• Skirts, jumpers, shorts and dresses – No more than three (3) inches above the knee
Students will be allowed to wear any combination of the uniforms in grades Pre-K- 5.
The high school and middle school students will wear specific colors on certain days as
follows:
Monday - Navy bottom and white top
Tuesday - Khaki bottom and red top
Wednesday - Navy bottom and gold top
Thursday - Navy bottom and white top
Friday - Khaki bottom and red top
ALL STUDENTS ATTENDING SCHOOL MUST WEAR UNIFORM EVERYDAY.
Students who are dressed inappropriately will be required to call parents to bring a
change of clothes that conform to the dress code.
Note: A student wearing sagging pants will be warned the first time; second time – 3 days
in ISS; third time – 5 days in ISS; and the fourth time – process starts over.
Only school designed or special events tee shirts and sweatshirts will be allowed, as approved by
the building principal.
Pants will be worn at the waistline with belts.
Pants sizes must correspond to the waist size of the student, (no sagging).
Shoes and sneakers (must be tied and/or buckled) and enclosed sandals may be worn.
• No shower shoes, house shoes, flip-flops or foam thongs
• K-5 No sandals or open toe or heel shoe
Please Note: Students will be allowed to wear any combination of the uniform.
GANG ACTIVITY
This South Delta school district is committed to maintaining a safe school environment for its
students and staffs. Students are expected to adhere to the school's and district's standards of
conduct that promote well-being and support the learning process.
Gang activity will not be
tolerated in any form.
Any student who starts a gang-related disturbance or who participates in one will be suspended
immediately and recommended for expulsion by the principal or the superintendent for the
remainder of the school year and subject to all other penalties and requirements provided by law
and the district.
25
DISTRACTING ARTICLES
Any student who displays or causes a distraction with articles such as comic books, rubber
bands, magazines, combs or brushes, make-up, playing cards, radios, pagers, etc., will have the
articles confiscated and turned into the principal’s office. Parents may pick up the article at the
office.
Student are not to bring cell phones or any electronic devices (Game boys, Ipod, MP3 Players,
PSP, etc.) to school. Students caught with a cell phone or any electronic devices in the school or
on school property will be dealt with accordingly:
First offense: Three days in ISS and a parent conference
Second Offense: Five days in ISS and a parent conference
Third Offense: Alternative Education
If any confiscated items are misplaced by school officials, neither school nor district will be
held accountable for restitution.
DUE PROCESS
A student who has been suspended or expelled or otherwise denied admission to attend
school has the right to due process. All aspects, circumstances and records of the student’s
case shall be confidential and available only to authorized school officials dealing directly
with the student or to the student’s parents, legal guardians or attorneys for the student or
the Board. The following procedures provide notice and opportunity to be heard in such
matters.
Step I. INITIAL INFORMAL HEARING
Applies to: Suspensions of 10 days or less
Suspensions of 11 days or more
Recommendations of Expulsions Denial of Admission
A. An initial informal hearing is required in each case where disciplinary action may be
taken against a student. After an initial investigation appropriate under the
circumstances, the principal, superintendent or designee shall:
1. Advise the student of the charges against him/her or reason for non-admission
2. Afford the student a full opportunity to respond
3. If the student denies the charges or contests the reasons for non-admission, explain
the evidence in support thereof.
B. After the informal hearing, the principal may take the following action:
1. SUSPENSION OF TEN DAYS OR LESS: The principal may issue to the student and
26
legal guardian a notice of suspension not longer than 10 consecutive school days. The
suspension is effective immediately and no further due process is required.
2. IMMEDIATE REMOVAL: The principal may immediately dismiss the student from
school for the day when such is necessary to restore order, to protect the safety of the
student or others and/or to resume normal school functions, but when an immediate
suspension is not or may not be appropriate. A student sent home under these
circumstances shall be instructed to return the following day with his legal guardian.
Should the student not return as instructed, the principal shall mail a ANotice of
Suspension@ for 10 days or less, as appropriate.
3. IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION AND RECOMMENDATION OF EXPULSION: The
principal or superintendent shall immediately suspend a student for 10 days or less and
recommend expulsion when there is reason to believe that the student committed an
unlawful act, as defined or otherwise provided by District policy. The suspension
shall be effective immediately, pending conclusion of the informal due process hearing
on the recommendation of expulsion.
4. IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION AND RECOMMENDATION OR SUSPENSION OF
11 DAYS OR MORE/EXPULSION: The principal or the superintendent may
immediately suspend a student for 10 days or less and recommend a suspension of 11
days or more or expulsion, as appropriate under the circumstances. The suspension
shall be effective immediately, pending a formal of the due process hearing on the
recommendation of long-term suspension or expulsion, which must be held before the
expiration of 10 days.
5. DENIAL OF ADMISSION: The principal or superintendent may recommend a denial
of admission which shall be effective immediately, pending the conclusion of due
process.
Step II. FORMAL DUE PROCESS HEARING
Applies to: Suspensions of 11 days or more
Expulsions
Denials of admission
If, after the initial informal hearing the principal or superintendent determines that a
recommendation of suspension for 11 days or more, expulsion or other denial of admission is the
appropriate disciplinary action the following actions shall be taken:
1. The principal or superintendent shall give the student a written Notice of Suspension and
Recommendation of Expulsion/Non-admission and Statement of Rights in a form provided
by the superintendent for such purposes.
2. The notice shall contain a statement of the charges/reasons, advising the student of his
right to legal counsel, to present witnesses and to cross-examine witness presented against
him and state the date, time and place for hearing. A copy of the notice will be hand-
delivered to the student when possible and the original hand-delivered or mailed to the
27
3. A hearing before the (School Appeals Committee) shall automatically be scheduled no
later than the tenth day following the date of notice.
4. Pending the outcome of the hearing before the (School Appeals Committee):
a. The student may be offered temporary placement in the alternative school program
when the counselor verifies the student’s suitability for such program and, in such
case, the hearing before the (School Appeals Committee) may be held at any
appropriate time without application of the 10-day limitation. However, the district
may not offer temporary placement when the offense upon which the action is based is
gang or group-related fighting, violation of prohibitions against weapons or controlled
substances, assault of a staff member or other unlawful or violent act.
b. The student may be allowed to remain in school if the principal or, in the case of
non-admission, the superintendent determines that his continued presence is not
detrimental to the normal functioning of the school program and, in such case, the
hearing before the School Appeals Committee may be held at any appropriate time
without application to the 10-day limitation and place for hearing. A copy of the
notice will be hand-delivered to the student when possible and the original hand-
delivered or mailed to the legal guardian.
c. The hearing will be before the (School Appeals Committee)
i. The Committee shall be composed of three or more school administrators, none of
who may be on the staff of the school from which the student is
enrolled.
ii The superintendent’s designee will serve as the investigator, convener and
administrative officer of the Committee but shall not vote.
d. The School Appeals Committee) shall hear and consider all cases presented and is
authorized to:
i. To concur in the suspension, expulsion or non-admission recommendation;
ii. To confirm or specify the duration
iii. The (School Appeals Committee) shall prepare a written summary of each
case.
e. All expulsion and non-admission recommendations shall be subject to review by the
superintendent.
f. After review by the superintendent, a parent, legal guardian or custodian aggrieved by
decision to suspend his child may request review of the decision by the school board.
A request for review must be submitted to the board within two days after receiving a
decision at this appeal step.
OPTIONAL: Step III. REVIEW BY THE SUPERINTENDENT
28
Applies to: Expulsions and Denial of admission
The superintendent shall review all recommendations by the (School Appeals Committee) for
expulsion or denials of admission:
1. If the superintendent concurs in the decision of the (School Appeals Committee)
he/she shall submit the recommendation to the school Board for final action
2. If the superintendent does not concur in the decision of the (School Appeals
Committee) he/she may reduce the suspension or readmit the student.
3. All recommendations by the superintendent of expulsions or denial of admission shall
be subject to review by the board.
Step VI. REVIEW BY THE BOARD
Applies to: Suspensions (only upon request by parents)
Expulsions and Denial of admission
The board shall, at its next regular or special meeting following the recommendation, review
and take action on all recommendations for expulsions, denial of admission and any requests for
review of suspensions. All consideration of student disciplinary actions shall be conducted in
accordance with standard board procedure. All decisions by the board shall be final.
EARLY DISMISSAL
Parents are urged to leave their children in school the full school day. Please try to schedule
medical or other appointments outside of school hours whenever possible. Early dismissal or late
arrival may prevent students from receiving a perfect attendance award.
Only a student’s parent, legal guardian, or designated person will be allowed to sign a student out
of school. Once a student arrives in the morning, he/she will not be allowed to leave campus
unless accompanied by a parent, guardian or designated person. Students must bring a note from
parents/guardians if they are to:
• Ride a different bus • Ride home with another person
• Walk from school when they normally ride • Make any changes in the
way they normally leave school
Note: No early dismal after 2:00 p.m.
FEES
Students may be assessed fees for varying approved programs, activities and organizations as
approved by the school board or superintendent.
29
FIGHTING
Where a student clearly tried to avoid a fight, and this was witnessed by a certified person, the
teacher may make a recommendation(s), in writing, for the punishment or action taken. All
fights will be investigated by the principal.
FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY OF PARENTS
A parent, guardian or custodian of a compulsory-school-age child enrolled in the South Delta
School District shall be responsible financially for his/her minor destructive acts against school
property or persons.
FIREWORKS, FIREARMS OR WEAPONS
Fireworks, firearms or weapons on campus and on buses are forbidden not only by the school
policy, but by local laws.
FOOD AND DRINKS
No student is to bring food, drinks or chewing gum into the classroom unless approved by the
teacher. All eating is to be done in designated areas.
GAMBLING
Gambling, or playing any game for money is not permitted. Teachers will confiscate any money
or materials and refer students involved to the office. Violations will be cause for suspension.
GED PROGRAM
GED participants shall not be eligible to participate in regular academic courses or other
programmatic activities within the school district, including athletics, choir, band, or any other
extra curricular activities, except that a GED student may participate in existing job and skill
development programs or in programs developed in conjunction with the GED Programs and the
Vocational Education Director.
GRADING, PROMOTION, RETENTION, AND GRADUATION
I. OBJECTIVES
‚ To monitor each student’s progress mastering the district and state competencies
‚ To evaluate student performance
‚ To report student progress to parents
‚ To identify the basis for student promotion, retention and graduation
30
II. EVALUATION OF STUDENT PERFORMANCE
‚ Evaluation of student performance is based upon demonstrated mastery of the objectives
set forth in the district’s Instructional Management Plans which include the
Mississippi
Curriculum Frameworks.
III. GRADING PROCEDURES
Pre-K-Kindergarten
In reporting progress to parents of the students in the Kindergarten program, a Report
Card Checklist will be used. A Slash (1) will be used to indicate those skills that have
been introduced and an “X” for those skills in which the student has demonstrated
mastery during the nine weeks grading period in language arts and math. An “S” will be
given for Satisfactory work and a “U” for Unsatisfactory work in social studies and
science courses. The student will be expected to master a minimum of 80 percent of the
skills identified in the language arts, math, social studies, science, reading/spelling, music
and physical education curriculums.
Grades 1 Through 6
Numerical grades will be given for all core courses - language arts, math, science, social
studies with the exceptions of music and physically education. Music/PE will receive a
grade of “S” for Satisfactory work and a “U” for Unsatisfactory work. Reading,
writing, listening, and spelling will be incorporated into the language arts grade. Students
are expected to master a minimum of 80 percent of the skills in all core courses.
Grades 7 Through 12
‚ Numerical grades will be given for all standard courses listed in the Approved Courses
for Secondary Schools of Mississippi in grades 7-12 as well as for remedial/special
courses so designated by the Board of Trustees. Students are expected to master a
minimum of 80 percent of the skills taught in each course.
NINE WEEKS GRADE:
‚ The letter grade and the numerical grade will be tabulated based upon the MASTERY
TEST (nine weeks test) scores, an average of the major works (unit tests, chapter tests,
weekly tests, reports, research papers, and projects), and an average of class activities and
homework (pop quizzes, worksheets, class activities and home assignments) during the
nine weeks grading period.
‚ The average score on the major work will be given a weight of 60 percent, class activities
and homework, 5 percent, and the nine weeks mastery test, 35 percent.
‚ A Computerized Tracking Record of Performance will be kept on each student that
will identify mastery and non-mastery of all skills tested.
31
‚ Numerical grades for grades 1 through 12 will be recorded on the Report Card for each
grading period. Report Cards in grades 1through 12 will be generated through the use
of technology.
‚ The following numerical values shall be used in determining letter grades:
93 - 100 -A (Superior)
92 - 85 - B (Above Average)
84 - 75 - C (Average)
74 - 70 - D (Below Average)
0 - 69 - F (Failure)
SIX POINTS (6) will be added to the nine weeks grade for students enrolled in
ADVANCED LEVEL COURSES (Advanced Algebra, Discrete Math, Chemistry II,
Pre-calculus, Trigonometry, and Physics I.)
‚ An "I" for incomplete will be given the student at the end of the grading period if he or
she has not met the requirement(s) of submitting a research paper, project, report, or has
an excused absence for the day of test administration, or records have not been received
from the school in which the child transferred. Three (3) weeks following exam week
will be allowed for the clearing of an "I." Scheduling for clearing an "I" for incomplete
shall be the responsibility of the student.
‚ ALL reteaching and retesting will take place during the nine weeks grading period and
following summative testing for students who do not demonstrate mastery of desired
skills.. The highest score a student can receive on a retest is 77. Only the student scoring
74 or below will be administered a retest. The retest - a different test covering the skills
tested on the first test - will be administered within three to five working days following
the first test. If the student scores lower on the second test than he/she scored on the first
test, then the student keeps his/her original (first test) test score. It is the responsibility of
the student to contact the teacher to schedule a retest.
‚ No points will be deducted from a student's grade for disciplinary problems, nor will
any points be given for "good" conduct. "Zeros" may not be given as a means of
disciplining a student except for cheating.
‚ Cheating: A student who is caught cheating on tests or assignments will receive a zero
(0) for that test or assignment. He/she will not be allowed to make up the work in
question. A parent conference will be requested following such student action.
‚ Excused and Unexcused Absences: Any student who is absent for whatever reason(s)
must make up any missed work or tests. The student has three to five days, depending on
the simplicity or complexity of the task missed, to make up any work and/or tests missed.
Students suspended due to disciplinary problems will be given an opportunity to make up
any missed work or tests. Scheduling for missed work or tests will be the responsibility
of the student.
32
‚ The semester average grade for the first semester will be determined by computing an
average of the first nine weeks and the second nine weeks grades.
‚ semester average grade for the second semester will be determined by computing an
average of the third nine weeks and the fourth nine weeks grades.
‚ The year's average will be determined by computing an average of the first semester
average and the second semester average.
IV. REPORT CARDS
‚ Report Cards will be computer generated for grades K-12 with non-academic
information provided.
‚ ALL report cards will be disseminated WEDNESDAY of the second week following the
nine weeks exam week. Teachers will be given sufficient time for scoring all tests. The
principal will develop a schedule for the submission of tests reports from each teacher.
A Mid-Term Progress Report will be provided to parents the fifth week of each grading
period to keep them informed of the child’s academic and non-academic progress.
‚ A Checklist of skills reinforced each nine weeks grading period will be provided to the
parents of students participating in Title I lab instruction.
V. POOR PERFORMANCE
‚ Teachers will constantly communicate with parents during the nine weeks grading period
through conferences, telephone calls, notes, etc., about students who are performing
poorly in class.
It will be the responsibility of the teacher to communicate verbally to the parent that
the child is not performing up to potential. The teacher cannot fail the student
without having conducted conferences with parent(s) during the school year, or
several unsuccessful attempts were made to contact parents for conferences. All
documentation of conferences or attempted conferences will be kept on file in the
teacher’s classroom and the principal’s office.
VI. PROMOTION AND RETENTION
‚ No kindergarten student will be retained in the Kindergarten Program without parents
consent.
‚ A pupil in Grades 1 through 8 shall be promoted under the following conditions:
• The student receives a year’s average of 70 or above in all core courses- language
arts/English, reading, math, science, social studies, and remedial/special courses and
is expected to master at least 80 percent of the skills.
•
33
♦ A Student that passes the end of the course test in Algebra I, Biology I, English II
or U. S. History, but failed the course for the year will have his or her work reviewed by
an external review team to recommend whether the student will be promoted or retained.
♦ A student passing the Mississippi Curriculum Test, MCT, but failed the grade for
the year will have his or her work reviewed by an external review team to recommend
whether the student will be promoted or retained.
♦ A student failing the MCT the second time will have his or her portfolio of work
and test scores on the MCT reviewed by an external review team to recommend whether
the student will be promoted or retained.
34
APPENDIX B
REQUIRED COURSES
IN THE CURRICULUM OF EACH SECONDARY SCHOOL
STANDARD 32
Effective Beginning School Year 2007 – 2008
CURRICULUM AREA
COURSES
CARNEGIE
UNITS
TOTAL
UNITS
ENGLISH
English I
English II
English III
English IV
1
1
1
1
4
MATHEMATICS
Algebra I
Algebra II
Geometry
Pre-Algebra
Transition to Algebra
Elective Mathematics Courses
1
1
1
1
1
1
6
SCIENCE
Biology I
Chemistry
Physics
Elective Science Courses
1
1
1
3
6
SOCIAL STUDIES
U.S. History
U.S. Government
Mississippi Studies
World History
Economics
Intro to Geography
1
½
½
1
½
½
4
BUSINESS &
TECHNOLOGY
Computer Applications
1
Keyboarding
1
Personal Finance or Financial
Technology
½
½
½
1½
HEALTH
Physical Education
Comprehensive Health
2
½
½
1
THE ARTS
Any approved 500.00 course
1
1
FAMILY & CONSUMER
SCIENCE
Family Dynamics
½
½
VOCATIONAL EDUCATION
Any combination of courses
3
4
4
ELECTIVES
Foreign Language (IHL) or
Advanced World Geography (IHL)
1
5½
TOTAL UNITS REQUIRED
33½
1
Or one unit in Computer Discovery.
2
Family and Individual Health may be offered in lieu of Comprehensive Health.
35
GRADING, PROMOTION, RETENTION, AND GRADUATION continued . . . . . . .
3
Includes Agriculture; Business Technology; Cooperative and Marketing Education; Family and Consumer
Sciences; Health Education; Home Economics; Lodging and Hospitality; Technology Education; and Trade and
Industrial.
PROMOTION
A pupil entering Grade 9 beginning with the school year 2003-04 shall be promoted under the
following conditions:
‚ In order for a 9th grade student to be promoted to the 10th grade he or she must have
earned 6 Carnegie units of work.
‚ In order for a 10th grade student to be promoted to the 11th grade he or she must have
earned 12 Carnegie units of work.
‚ In order for an 11th grade student to be promoted to the 12th grade he or she must have
earned 18 Carnegie units of work.
‚ In order for a 12th grade student to graduate he or she must have earned 24 Carnegie units
of work.
‚ No student will be allowed to take two English courses in the same school term.
‚ Special Education students who participate for part of the school day in regular education
courses shall be required to meet the same standards in said courses as regular education
students.
VII. GRADUATION
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS STANDARD 20(MDE)
Each student graduating from a secondary school in an accredited school district will have
earned the required Carnegie units as specified in the following table. Contents of each required
and elective course must include the core objectives identified in the Mississippi Curriculum
Frameworks. Course titles and identification numbers must appear in the current edition of
Approved Courses for Secondary Schools of Mississippi. (See SB Policy ICFA-1.) Enrollment in
on-line and correspondence courses listed in this book must have prior approval granted by
principal. No more than one (1) of the minimum required number of units may be earned
through completion of an approved correspondence course. Elective courses that do have
identified content in the Mississippi Curriculum Frameworks or whose titles do not appear in the
current edition of Approved Courses for the Secondary Schools of Mississippi must be approved
according to criteria stated in Appendix D.
36
GRADING, PROMOTION, RETENTION, AND GRADUATION, continued.
SENIORS OF SCHOOL YEAR 2004-2005, 2005-2006, 2006-2007, and 2007-2008
(Entering ninth graders in 2001-2002, 2002-2003, 2003-2004, and 2004-2005)
CURRICULUM AREA
UNITS
REQUIRED SUBJECTS
ENGLISH
4
1
MATHEMATICS
4
2
Algebra I
SCIENCE
3
3
Biology I
SOCIAL STUDIES
3
1 World History
1 U. S. History
2 U. S. Government
2 Mississippi Studies
4
HEALTH
2
Comprehensive Health or
Family and Individual Health
BUSINESS &
TECHNOLOGY
1
5
2 Keyboarding
2 Computer Applications
THE ARTS
1
ELECTIVES
42
6
TOTAL UNITS
REQUIRED
21
1
Compensatory Reading and Compensatory Writing may not be included in the four English courses required
for graduation; however, these courses may be included in the 31/2 general electives required for graduation.
2
Beginning school year with the eighth graders of 2004-2005, Pre-Algebra and Transition to Algebra, as well as
Algebra I, may be taken in the eighth grade for Carnegie unit credit. Survey of Mathematical Topics,
Compensatory Mathematics and developmental mathematics course may not be included in the four mathematics
courses required for graduation; however, these courses may be included in the 31/2 general electives required
for graduation. At least one of the four required mathematics courses must be higher than Algebra I. The
allowable mathematics courses that can be taken which are higher than Algebra I are: Geometry, Algebra II,
Advanced Algebra, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, Discrete
Mathematics, Probability and Statistics, and AP Statistics.
3
One unit may be in Technology Applications or Introduction to Agriscience or Agriscience I or Concepts of
Agriscience or Allied Health or Aquaculture.
4
The credit earned for a State/Local Government course in any other state by an out-of-state transfer student who
enters after the sophomore year can stand in lieu of Mississippi Studies or Mississippi State and Local Government.
5
One unit in Computer Discovery is accepted in lieu of the two 2 unit courses. Evidence of proficiency in
Keyboarding and Computer Applications is accepted in lieu of the required courses if the student earns one unit in
any of the courses listed in the Business and Technology Framework (academic and vocational).
6
Elective units in physical education include participation in interscholastic athletic activities that meet the
instructional requirements specified in the Fitness through Physical Education Framework and that are sanctioned
by the Mississippi High School Activities Association.
37
APPENDIX A
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
SENIORS OF SCHOOL YEAR 2011-2012 AND LATER
(Entering ninth graders in 2008-2009 and thereafter)
Beginning school year 2008-2009 and thereafter, all entering ninth graders (seniors of school year
2011-2012 and later) will be enrolled in a college preparatory curriculum and required to have a
minimum of 24 Carnegie units, unless their parent/guardian requests to opt the student out of the
college preparatory curriculum. Any student who is taken out of these requirements will complete the
current Appendix A requirements for a standard high school diploma.
CURRICULUM AREA
CARNEGIE UNITS
REQUIRED SUBJECTS
ENGLISH
4
1
MATHEMATICS
4
2
Algebra I
SCIENCE
4
3
Biology I
SOCIAL STUDIES
4
1 World History
1 U.S. History
½ Geography
½ U.S. Government
½ Economics
½ Mississippi Studies
4
HEALTH
½ Comprehensive Health or
Family and Individual Health
BUSINESS &
TECHNOLOGY
1
5
½ Keyboarding
½ Computer Applications
THE ARTS
1
ELECTIVES
5½
6
TOTAL UNITS REQUIRED 24
1
Compensatory Reading and Compensatory Writing may not be included in the four English courses required for
graduation; however, these courses may be included in the
5½ general electives required for graduation.
2
Beginning school year with the eighth graders of 2004-2005, Pre-Algebra and Transition to Algebra, as well as
Algebra I, may be taken in the eighth grade for Carnegie unit credit.
Survey of Mathematical Topics, Compensatory
Mathematics and any developmental mathematics course may not be included in the four mathematics courses
required for graduation; however, these courses may be included in the
5½ general electives required for graduation.
At least
two of the four required mathematics courses must be higher than Algebra I. The allowable mathematics
courses that can be taken which are higher than Algebra I are: Geometry, Algebra II, Advanced Algebra,
Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, Discrete Mathematics, Probability and
Statistics, and AP Statistics.
3
One unit may be in Technology Applications or Introduction to Agriscience or Agriscience I or Concepts of
Agriscience or Allied Health or Aquaculture.
One unit must be a lab-based physical science. The allowable lab-
based physical science courses are Physical Science, Chemistry I, Chemistry II, AP Chemistry, Physics I, Physics
II, AP Physics B, AP Physics C – Electricity and Magnetism, and AP Physics C – Mechanics.
4
The credit earned for a State/Local Government course in any other state by an out-of-state transfer student who
enters after the sophomore year can stand in lieu of Mississippi Studies or Mississippi State and Local Government.
38
5
One unit in Computer Discovery is accepted in lieu of the two ½ unit courses. Evidence of proficiency in
Keyboarding and Computer Applications is accepted in lieu of the required courses if the student earns one unit in
any of the courses listed in the Business and Technology Framework (academic and vocational).
6
Elective units in physical education include participation in interscholastic athletic activities that meet the
instructional requirements specified in the Fitness through Physical Education Framework and that are sanctioned
by the Mississippi High School Activities Association.
REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN MISSISSIPPI
(IHL) STANDARD 32
CURRICULUM AREA
COURSES
UNITS
ENGLISH
4
MATHEMATICS
Algebra I
1
Geometry
Algebra II
3
SCIENCE
SELECT 3 UNITS FROM THE
FOLLOWING LIST:
Biology I
Advanced Biology
Chemistry
Advanced Chemistry
Physics
Advanced Physics
Physical Science
3
(2 lab-based)
SOCIAL STUDIES
U. S. History
World History
U. S. Government (2)
Economics (2) or
Geography (2)
3
COMPUTER EDUCATION
Computer Applications
2
ADVANCED EDUCATION
SELECT 2 UNITS
2
THE
FOLLOWING LIST:
Foreign Language
1
World Geography
4
th
year lab-based Science
4
th
year Mathematics
2
EIGHTH GRADE UNITS
Algebra I or first year Foreign
Language taken in the eighth grade
will be accepted for admission
provided the course content is the
same as the high school course.
TOTAL UNITS REQUIRED
15 2
39
TRADITIONAL DIPLOMA
‚ A minimum of 24 Carnegie units is required for the Graduating Class of 2002 and
thereafter in the South Delta School District for College Bound Track students. Four
(4) of these units shall be in the area of English, three (4) in mathematics, three (3)
in science, three (3) in social studies, and eleven (11) electives as identified in
Approved Courses for Secondary Schools of Mississippi , and two required
electives in two of the following - foreign language, world geography, and 4th
year math or science.
OCCUPATIONAL DIPLOMA
‚ Effective for students with disabilities as defined by the Individuals with Disabilities
Education Act (Public Law 101-476) who begin the ninth grade in 2002-2003 school
year, students must earn the course credits outlined below and successfully complete
an approved occupational portfolio in order to be awarded the Mississippi
Occupational Diploma. Occupational Bound Track students. Four (4) credits of
English Language Arts (Employment English I, II, III and Applied Employment
English IV), four (4) credits in mathematics (Job Skills Math I, II, III and Applied
Life Skills Math IV), four (4) in science (Life Skills Science I, II, III, and Applied
Life Skills Science IV), four (4) in social studies (Career Preparation I, II, III and
Applied Career Preparation IV), one (1) School Based Work Assessment (Career
Technical Ed), one (1) Community Based Job Shadowing (Career Technical Ed), two
(2) 540 hours of successful paid work experience or successful completion of a two
(2) year career technical (Vocational) program. Electives in arts education, physical
education, wellness education, career technical education, and driver education.
GRADUATION OPTIONS FOR IDEA
‚ Certificate: The student is given recognition for having attended school for 12 or
more/less years up to age 21.
‚ Occupational Diploma: The student is given recognition for having successfully
completed the prescribed goals and objectives on his/her Individual Educational Plan
(IEP).
‚ Regular Diploma: The student is given recognition for having met all of the graduation
requirements as stated in the South Delta School District Curriculum Course of Study.
‚ Special Education students who wish to receive a high school diploma are required to
take the Assessment-based Graduation Requirements Exam. (High School Exit
Exam) and perform at established performance levels and meet the minimum
requirements.
‚ Special Education students who are self-contained will be awarded a certificate of
completion and shall be permitted to participate in graduation exercises.
‚ Alternative GED – The student will be issued a certificate.
40
‚ A school shall not deliver a diploma, or any substitute for a diploma, signed or unsigned,
to a student, nor shall the student be permitted to participate in the graduation exercise
until he/she has satisfied the graduation requirements established by the local board of
education.
‚ A maximum of one said unit may be earned through completing a correspondence course
providing the course has been approved by the principal; student passes the district's
evaluation criteria in that subject; and the evaluation criteria have been administered by
the supervising teacher.
‚ Each student graduating from a secondary school will have earned at least 2 of the last 4
Carnegie units at the school granting the diploma.
‚ No more than 4 units earned in summer school programs may be counted toward
graduation requirements.
VIII. SUBJECT AREA AND FLE GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
‚ Each student graduating from a secondary school in Mississippi must pass the
following assessments
Students
Assessment Based Graduation Requirements
Students who entered
9
th
Grade in 1998/1999
Students must pass all three sections of the FLE.
9
th
Graders in 1999/2000
Students must pass all three sections of the FLE plus the
Subject Area Test in U.S. History from 1877.
9
th
Graders in 2000/2001
Students must pass the Mathematics section of the FLE plus the
Subject Area Tests in U.S. History from 1877 and English II
(with a writing component.)
9
th
Graders in 2001/2002
Students must pass the Mathematics section of the FLE plus the
Subject Area Test in U.S. History from 1877, English II (with a
writing component, and Biology I
Students who entered
9
th
Grade in 2002/2003
and after
Students must pass the Subject Tests in U. S. History from
1877, English II(with a writing component), Biology I, and
Algebra I.
Subsequent 9
th
Grade
Classes
Same requirements as above
41
ACADEMIC RECOGNITION
‚ Superintendent’s List-All A’s
‚ Principal’s List-A’s and B’s
‚ Honor Roll-average of 85 and above (Only courses with 70 and above scores will
be averaged. If the student has an “F” and/or an “I” he/she cannot be
considered for academic honors for that grading period.)
RANK IN CLASS
‚ Academic rank in the class is determined by averaging all grades earned the first
semester and second semester of the ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades through first
semester of the twelfth grade.
HONOR CORDS
‚ Only students who have met the requirement of Honor Graduate or Graduate with
Distinction shall receive an Honor Cord. The following criteria must be met:
‚ Graduate with Distinction - Accumulative Average of 93 - 100
‚ Honor Graduate - Accumulative Average of 85 - 92
RANK IN CLASS
‚ Academic rank for the valedictorian, salutatorian, and the top ten students of the senior
class will be determined based upon the calculation of the first semester and second
semester averages of grades nine, ten, eleven, and the first semester average and the third
nine weeks grade of grade twelve. These students will be announced the second week of
April each year.
COURSE LOAD
‚ ALL students in grades 7 through 12 must enroll in a minimum of eight (7) classes. A
student who is enrolled in high school for the 5th year and is a senior will take whatever
courses are needed for graduation, in addition to other courses.
GUIDANCE
Guidance services are available for every student in the school. The services include:
• assistance with education planning
• interpretation of test scores
• occupational information
• career information
• study help
• help with home, school, and/or social concerns
• answer student questions
42
HARASSMENT
South Delta School District prohibits sexual harassment of or by any student. This policy applies
to conduct during and relating to school and school-sponsored activities. Sexual harassment is
inappropriate behavior and offensive. Any student who engages in the sexual harassment of
anyone in the school setting may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.
Student behavior that harasses or threatens other students or school personnel will not be
tolerated. This district shall treat hazing, as defined in MS Code 97-3-105 and stalking, as
defined in MS Code 97-3-107, as serious offenses subject to criminal prosecution.
Student-to-student harassment or extortion, including bullying will not be tolerated. .
1. Definition of Sexual Harassment
Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct
of a sexual nature amounting to or constituting harassment are prohibited. Examples of this
type of conduct include:
• Requiring submission to sexual conduct, either implicitly or explicitly, as a term or condition
for grades, promotion or other benefit.
• Using submission to or rejection of sexual conduct to unreasonably interfere with the
student’s work performance or create an intimidating, hostile or offensive teaching or
learning environment.
2. Complaints
Complaints may be made to the appropriate administrator or directly to the Title IX Coordinator
without fear of reprisal. If a complaint is substantiated, the offending employee/student shall be
subject to disciplinary action.
To make a complaint, specific steps must be followed in accordance with strict timelines. In
order to start the grievance process, a complaint must be made within 5 days after the occurrence
of the alleged sexual harassment by contacting your principal or Katherine Tankson, 106 Athletic
Drive, Rolling Fork, MS 39159 or 601-873-4302.
Further Information
More detailed information concerning the Sexual Harassment Policy and Complaint Procedure
may be found in Board Policies.
HOMECOMING
Each grade, nine through eleven, will select one homecoming maid to represent them. The
senior class will elect three maids. The Homecoming Queen shall be chosen from the senior
maids by vote of the student body. The queen’s identity shall be kept secret until Homecoming
ceremonies.
43
Selection of Maids:
• Nominations will occur 12 days before homecoming and election will be ten days before
Homecoming.
• Nominations of maids will take place in the English classes.
• The top five candidates from each grade level will be placed on a ballot and will be voted
on in English classes for that grade.
• The top candidate in each grade, nine through eleven, will represent that grade.
• The top three senior candidates will represent the twelfth grade.
• The top three senior candidates will be placed on the ballot for all students in all grades.
• The senior receiving the most votes will be queen.
• The senior receiving the second most votes will be senior maid of honor.
• The senior receiving the third most votes will be Senior Maid.
• All maids will be allowed to choose their escorts within their grades.
• Student’s qualifications will be based on honors and recognition criteria.
HOMEROOMS
All students are assigned a homeroom and must report to their homeroom as scheduled each day.
HOMEBOUND PROGRAM
The Homebound Program is an instructional program for students who because of severe
disabilities or chronic illnesses are unable to attend school for extended, long-term periods, or for
other reasons as approved by the board of Trustees for the education of students not in the
normal academic program. Only the superintendent, his/her designee, or the Board of Trustees
may determine the student’s eligibility for homebound services. No principal or teacher or any
other staff person shall have the authority to place a student in the Homebound Program.
Applications for homebound services are in the principal’s office.
HOME SCHOOLING
The procedure for enrollment of transfer students who were enrolled in a non-accredited school
or in a correspondence school or who were receiving home schooling will be as follows:
1. The student will be temporarily assigned during registration to grade level or subject
indicated on report card, transfer papers, or written documentation from correspondences
school or private tutor.
2. The administrator will arrange for administering a test to each student during the first
thirty (30) days of attendance.
3. Principals will assign the student to grade level or subject (discipline) based on the
student’s achievement level on the test.
4. Students from non-accredited schools will not be accepted without examinations, using
district tests and/or special subject area tests within thirty (30) days after transfer.
Schools shall not permanently enroll a student who was formerly enrolled in the state
44
until the Mississippi cumulative folder or official transfer of credits is received from the
school from which the student transferred.
5. Home schooling/alternative education may not be used to advance a student beyond
his/her peers.
HOME SCHOOLING/TRANSFER STUDENT TESTING
Any transfer student from a school or program (correspondence, tutorial, or home study) not
accredited by a regional or state agency is given either a standardized achievement test(s) or
teacher-made special subject test(s) to determine the appropriate classification of the student.
(MS Code 37-15-33) Note: The administrative head of each public school shall ensure that
each pupil applying for transfer shall be tested within thirty days after the filing of such
application for transfer. Notice of the administering of such test(s) shall be given to the
applicant not less than five days prior to the date of the administration of such test.
HONORS AND RECOGNITIONS
The following criteria shall apply in giving honors:
• Daily student conduct
• Displaying good leadership qualities
• Student efforts and successes in his/her area of endeavor
ILLINESS OR INJURY AT SCHOOL
If students become ill or injured at school they should report to their teacher and ask for a pass to
the nurse’s office. If necessary, the office will contact a parent. The district nurse is on campus
each day. All accidents that occur at school or school related activities must be reported
immediately to the person in charge and to the office.
If the parent-guardian cannot be reached, information on the emergency card, signed by the
parent- guardian, shall be used for securing medical care. For this reason, it is imperative, by
law, that the school be informed of changes in residences and phone numbers, place of
employment, nearest relatives, etc.
INSURANCE
Students are offered low-cost insurance as a school service.
LEAVING SCHOOL DURING THE DAY
Students are discouraged from leaving school during the day unless it is an emergency. The
following school policy will apply:
1. A student may be checked out through the principal/director’s office by the student’s
parent or guardian.
2. Students checking out of school for school business must have parental permission.
3. A student leaving school during the day will be counted absent and the policy for
absences will apply.
4. Before a student is allowed to leave campus, he/she must have the approval of the
45
principal/director and must sign out in the office.
5. Students may not leave campus for breakfast or lunch.
LIBRARY PROCEDURES
• The library is open during the entire school day.
• Students and their legal guardians will be charged for lost books which will be paid for
on a prorated basis.
• Overdue book fines are five cents per day.
• A log will be kept of students using the library.
LOCKERS
High school
• The locker fee is $5.00 per person with $1.00 refunded at the end of the year for returning
key.
• Only two students per locker will be allowed.
• Seniors may have a locker by themselves or may share with another senior or junior.
• Seniors will have first choice of lockers.
• Juniors must share a locker with another junior or senior.
Locker Rules:
• Students assigned a locker are responsible for any material left in the locker and
for seeing that no one else stores books or articles in locker.
• A student who loses his/her key must buy another or lose his locker assignment.
• Lockers should be kept orderly at all times and will be checked periodically.
• A fee of twenty-five cents will be charged for opening a locker.
• Students are prohibited from placing padlocks on the lockers.
• A student who violates any of these rules will be required to turn in his/her key
and lose the privilege of using the locker.
• The South Delta School District reserves the right to search any lockers at any
time.
LOST AND FOUND
Lost articles should be reported to the office. Found articles should be brought to the office.
MISSISSIPPI SCHOOL SAFETY ACT OF 2001
The Mississippi School Safety Act of 2001 provides additional disciplinary procedures to the
school district=s existing authority regarding the discipline of students. In conformity with the
Act, the South Delta School District has adopted policies that recognize the teacher as the
authority in classroom matters regarding the school district’s written discipline code of conduct,
and the right of the teacher to remove from the classroom any student who in the professional
judgment to the teacher is disrupting the learning environment, subject to the immediate review
of the principal or assistant principal.
46
In the event the removal is approved by the principal or assistant principal, the student may not
be returned to the classroom until a conference has been held with the student’s parent,
guardian or custodian, during whom the disrupting behavior is discussed and agreements are
reached that no further disruption will be tolerated. The conference may be in person, by
telephone, by e-mail or by other written communication.
The term Adisruptive behavior@ means conduct of a student that is so unruly, disruptive or
abusive that it seriously interferes with a school teacher’s or school administrator’s ability to
communicate with the students in a classroom, with a student’s ability to learn, or with the
operation of a school or a school-related activity, and which is not covered by other laws related
to violence or possession of weapons or controlled substances on school property, school
vehicles or at school-related activities. Such behaviors include, but are not limited to foul,
profane, obscene, threatening, defiant or abusive language or action toward teachers or other
school employees; defiance, ridicule or verbal attack of a teacher and willful, deliberate and
overt acts of disobedience of the directions of a teacher.
If a student commits disruptive behavior as determined by the principal or assistant principal for
a second time during the school year, the principal, reporting teacher and the student’s parents
will develop a behavior modification plan for the student, thirteen years or older, who does not
comply with the behavior modification plan may be deemed to be habitually disruptive and
subject to expulsion of the student commits a third act of disruptive behavior during the school
year. Students under age thirteen may be subject to expulsion for such conduct pursuant to other
school policies and procedures.
The term habitually disruptive refers to such actions of a student which cause disruption in a
classroom, on school property or vehicles or at a school-related activity on more than two
occasions during a school year, and to disruptive behavior that was initiated, willful and overt on
the part of the student and which required the attention of school personnel to deal with the
disruption.
Students with disabilities are responsible for adhering to the same rules of conduct as non-
disabled students. State and federal regulations relating to students with disabilities will be
followed when implementing discipline procedures.
PARENT CONFERENCES
Parents are welcomed and encouraged to come to school to talk with teachers and administrators
when they feel the need. However, appointment MUST be made in advance for teachers by
contacting the principal’s office. Teachers cannot have conferences outside the classroom door
or during instructional time.
Appointments will be scheduled after class at the end of the school day.
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PARENT VOLUNTEERS
We strongly encourage parents to participate by volunteering to assist. It is with your assistance
that we can improve student behavior, instructional programs and provide experiences that will
assist in making the students’ year a successful one. Please contact your child’s teacher and the
office if you can help! Volunteers must follow guidelines which will include screening to insure
the safety of all students. A parent center is open daily to assist parents. Please come or call the
office of the principal. We need your help and support.
PERSONAL HYGIENE
The following guidelines apply to male and female students.
• All students are expected to observe certain minimum standards of hygiene, sanitation,
and personal appearance at all times.
• There should be no excessive use of any cosmetic, cologne, hair sprays, etc.
• No student should take classroom time to comb or groom hair, apply make-up, etc
• No hair curlers/rollers will be allowed.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS
All participants in any sport sponsored by the school must have a physical examination prior to
the first day of practice. Only one physical per year is required.
POSTERS
All posters or announcements to be displayed anywhere on campus or in buildings must be
approved by the principal.
PREGNANCY
Pregnant students must notify the counselor as soon as pregnancy is determined.
PROFANITY, VULGARITY AND OBSCENITY
Profanity, vulgarity and obscenities whether spoken, written or otherwise indicated will not be
tolerated. This includes use of profanity or pornography on the Internet.
PROM AND BALL
Fees for Prom and Ball
• Fees should be paid four weeks prior to prom/ball date.
• Commitments for purchases cannot be made until all fees are collected.
• Fees cannot be refunded after commitments have been made.
Guidelines
• Participants are not allowed to leave and then return to prom/ball.
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• Disruptive participants will be escorted off premises.
• The prom is for juniors and seniors.
• The ball is for freshmen and sophomores.
• Admittance to the prom/ball will be by invitation only.
• Security personnel will be on duty.
REGISTRATION (NEW STUDENTS)
Students enrolling in the South Delta School District for the first time must report to the
principal’s office to begin the registration process. New students must be accompanied by a
parent or guardian with valid documentation.
1. Documentation Required for Registration
A student entering a Mississippi public school for the first time must present a certified copy of
his/her birth certificate. A student entering the district for the first time is required to present the
following prior to enrollment in the district:
• Proof of residency
• Clearance from the former school
• A Certificate of Compliance certifying that the student have met all required immunization.
For further information on immunizations, please contact the health department.
• A statement of whether the student is under an expulsion from or has an expulsion
proceeding pending in the former school district
2.
Withdrawals and Transfers
A parent/legal guardian must contact the principal and sign a record of release form before a
student will be permitted to withdraw from and/or transfer to another school. All debts to the
school must be cleared and textbooks returned before a student will be officially released. If
these requirements are met, the student will receive a clearance form which should be presented
to the new school. The student’s cumulative record will be forwarded to the new school upon
receipt of its written request, signed by the legal guardian.
If a student withdraws during the last month of the school year, the principal will send a notice to
the parent/legal guardian stating the student’s academic situation and probable classification for
the next year had next not withdrawn.
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS AND VERIFICATION
Students must physically reside full time (weekdays/nights and weekends) at a place of abode
located within the limits of the district. With the exception of students who are lawfully
transferred into the district, all students must meet the residency and verification requirements.
1.
Verification
• Each student enrolling for the first time in the District or each continuing student whose
49
residence has changed must verify his residence as part of the registration process.
Documents that may be used for verification must include a street address. At least two of
the following must be presented:
• Filed Homestead Exemption Application form
• Mortgage Documents or property deed
• Apartment or home lease
• Utility bills
• Driver’s license
• Voter’s precinct identification
• Affidavit and/or personal visit by a designated District official
• Any other documentation that will objectively and unequivocally establish that the student
resides within the school district; or
• A certified copy of a filed petition for a decree of guardianship, except where the
guardianship was executed for purposes of school attendance.
• Original Certified Birth Certificate
• Student Social Security Card
• A white Mississippi Department of Health immunization record
• A student entering kindergarten must reach his/her fifth birthday on or before
September 1.
• A student entering the first grade must reach his/her sixth birthday on or before
September 1 and have satisfactorily completed a kindergarten program.
The parents or guardians of continuing students whose residency has not changed since initial
verification must sign a Declaration of Residency form as part of the registration process each
subsequent year.
RESTROOMS
During class time, students should use the restroom closest to their class. Only restrooms located
on the ninth/tenth grade hall and eleventh/twelfth grade hall may be used before school, during
lunch or breaks.
RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
DISTRICT AND SCHOOL
The district accepts its responsibility for insuring certain rights upon which there can be no
comprise:
• The student’s right to a quality education, differentiated, individualized and free from
disruption.
• The educator’s right to teach or administer free from verbal intimidation and physical assault.
• The parent’s right to expect a quality education and the protection of students, educators and
their investment in school property.
STUDENTS’ RIGHTS
All students have basic rights and responsibilities as afforded by the U.S. Constitution, the
Constitution of the State of Mississippi and Mississippi Law.
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• Right to Learn: Students have a right to a public education and to a non-disruptive educational
environment in which to learn.
• Equal Opportunity: Students have a right to an equal opportunity to participate in school
programs and activities. However, participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege which
may be lost by misconduct, academic standing or other reason provided by policy and or law.
• Freedom of Expression: Students have a right to express their opinions verbally or written as
long as it does not disrupt the educational environment. This right includes student publications
to the extent provided by law.
• Privacy: Student’s academic and other personal school records are confidential and can be
inspected only by eligible students, parents/guardians, school officials and others as permitted
by law.
• Due Process: Students have a right to due process as outlined by district policy and provided by
law.
• Search or Seizure: Students have the right to be free from an unreasonable search and/or
seizure, but anything on school property is subject to search if reasonable suspicion exists.
Lockers may be searched at any time.
STUDENTS’ RESPONSIBILITIES
A student attends school so that his/her individual capacities can be developed to the fullest.
Student conduct is expected to reflect respect and consideration of the personal property rights of
others, as well as an understanding of the need for cooperation with all members of the school
community. Students are expected to fulfill certain responsibilities including, but are not limited
to:
• Respect for authority, including obedience to school rules and regulations and to the law.
• Respect for the rights of other persons and for school and community property.
• Regular attendance and meeting of school obligations. Development of standards of personal
conduct which are reflected in a socially approved behavior.
• Accept responsibility for his/her work and behavior.
PARENTS’ RESPONSIBILITIES
In addition to general encouragement and support of the students, teachers and school, a
parent/guardian’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Ensure the attendance of his/her child.
• Encourage his/her child to succeed by interest and involvement in the child’s school work and
activities.
• Cooperate with the teachers and administration with regard to school requested conferences.
• Encourage his/her child’s good behavior and compliance with school rules and the law. A
parent/guardian/custodian may be liable for payment of damages resulting from his/her minor
child destructive acts against school property or persons and criminal fines brought against
his/her child for unlawful activity upon school grounds.
• Encourage proper nutrition.
• Parents must be respectful and show the same courtesy shown them to the school employees,
and if not they may be banned from the campus and all sponsored events.
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SECURITY
Security will be provided at all major sporting events.
SMOKE-FREE SCHOOLS
All persons shall be prohibited from smoking within any indoor facility owned, operated, or
utilized by the South Delta School District for the provision of educational or library services.
An “indoor facility” includes all enclosed buildings on the school campus. This prohibition
extends to all areas of the enclosed buildings, including but not limited to classrooms, restrooms,
offices, workrooms, teachers’ lounges and restrooms, auditoriums, gymnasiums, and
administrative offices.
Any student violating this rule shall be subject to disciplinary action, as provided by district
policy and the discipline plan.
Any visitor violating this rule shall be informed of its existence and required to comply.
SOCIAL EVENTS
No student event is to be announced to take place following the end of the regular school day
without prior approval of the vocational director. All student programs and activities must be
approval by the faculty sponsor and vocational director.
SORORITIES, FRATERNITIES, AND SECRET ORGANIZATIONS
State laws specifically prohibit the existence of any sorority, fraternity, or secret society as a part
of any high school in Mississippi. The South Delta School District expressly prohibits use of
South Delta names as a part of the name of any of these groups, raising funds in the name of
South Delta schools, conducting any part of their initiation at South Delta schools (including
wearing of unusual dress, signs, and directions or instructions given to initiates by members),
and the use of any school facility – grounds or buildings – for the purpose of meeting or holding
any type of program or exhibition.
The above regulations are not inclusive; other conduct in connection with these groups is
forbidden at or in the schools. Students who violate the position of the South Delta School
District in this matter will be subject to suspension, with a parental conference required before
student reinstatement.
SPECIAL HEALTH PROBLEMS AND MEDICATION
In the event of illness or accident, school personnel will give emergency care only. A student
needing first aid should report to the office. Students bringing medication to school must leave
it in the office.
1. Administration of medication is foremost the responsibility of the parent/guardian. All
medications that can be given outside of school hours without serious effects must be
given before or after school.
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2. The first dose of any medication should be given at home in case there is an allergic
reaction.
3. School personnel/nurses are not responsible for giving missed or late home doses of
medication.
4. Prescription medication will only be administered if:
a. A physician’s order and parent/guardian written permission slip is received at
school including child’s name, name of medication, amount of medication
needed, and time of administration.
b. Medication must be supplied in the bottle dispensed by the pharmacy with the
following on the label before the school can accept it: child’s name, name of
medication, how often the medication is to be given, and the dosage.
c. The information from (a) and (b) must be the same.
5. Non-prescription medication:
a. Parent/guardian signs the permission form.
b. Medication is in the original package.
6. Medication will not be accepted in household containers, envelopes, or baggies.
7. Medication will not be given from a teacher’s own personal supply.
8. A new form must be signed for each medication or change of medication order. A new
form with the physician’s orders must be signed at the beginning of each school year if
the medication is continued from one year to the next.
9. Grade K-8 student’s medication, both prescription and over-the-counter, must be brought
to school by an adult. All medications that are controlled by the Federal Narcotic Act,
(including Ritalin), must be brought to school by an adult in all grade levels.
10. The proper disposal of unused medications is important, and it is the responsibility of the
parent to obtain all unused medication from the school when the medication is
discontinued, the school year ends, or the family transfers to another district. All
medication left in the school under these conditions will be disposed of by the school
nurse or delegate.
11. Students may keep asthma inhalers and diabetic medications with them at all times if
given permission from the parent/guardian, physician, and school nurse.
STEALING
Any student who commits, or attempts, to commit, theft or breaking and entering at school will
be put on probation, suspended, and/or referred to law enforcement authorities. Theft includes
stealing school property from faculty, school employees, or other students. Breaking and
entering includes the school buildings, lockers, locked rooms, or other areas prohibited. Stolen
or lost property should be reported to the office promptly. A student and/or his legal guardian
shall make restitution for any stolen items.
STUDENT COUNCIL
The student council is an organization that promotes leadership, initiative, and self-control
among its members as well as setting standards of good school citizenship.
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Student Council Officers and representatives will be elected by the student body. Criteria for
election of officers/representatives:
File qualifying papers
• Enrollment in SDSD one semester prior to election
• Minimum of 2.5 GPA
• Acceptable disciplinary report
• Two teacher recommendations
• Petition with fifty student signatures
• Make a videotaped campaign speech
STUDENT PARTICIPATION IN SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
The students at South Delta High School are encouraged to participate in as many school
activities as their own capabilities will allow.
If an unavoidable extracurricular scheduling conflict arises, the student then must make the final
decision as to which activity he or she will participate in, but this must be done without undue
pressure from the sponsors involved. Sponsors shall make every attempt to assist students with
conflicts in order to allow participation in both activities. If conflict arises between an academic
activity (one involving a grade) and an extracurricular activity (one not involving a grade), the
activity which receives the grade will be the activity in which the student shall participate.
Guidelines:
Participants must have a satisfactory conduct and attendance record.
A student must attend school the day he/she is to participate in an activity. Any absence
must have the approval of the sponsor and the principal.
ACADEMIC RULE
JUNIOR HIGH (7
th
and 8
th
graders)
To be eligible for participation as a seventh grader, a student must be promoted from sixth grade;
and for participation as an eighth graders a student must be promoted from seventh grade. A
pupil must pass his/her grade level by achieving at least an average of 75 in four basic courses*
the previous year to be eligible to participate during the present year.
A pupil who is not eligible at the beginning of the school year may become eligible the second
semester only once during the student’s junior high school career by passing four basic courses
with 75 in each course.
*Basic courses – any subject that the student meets five days a week.
Pupils in the 7
th
and 8
th
grade participating in high school extra-curricular activities must pass
their grade level by achieving at least an average of 75 in three of the four core courses of math,
science, English and social studies the previous year in order to be eligible to participate during
the present year.
The 75 average will be required beginning with the 2005-2006 school year.
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SENIOR HIGH (9
th
– 12
th
graders)
To be eligible for athletics and activities, beginning with the freshman class 2005-2006, students
must pass five credits toward graduation with one year of six credits. The 5 units will be
averaged as a whole, and the overall average must be 75 or higher in order to maintain eligibility.
This will be done on a yearly basis.
A student athlete may become eligible only once during his/her high school career if he/she fails
the last semester of the previous year, by passing 5 units with a 75 average the first semester of
the following year. This will be done in order to keep the student on track for graduation.
The only change for students on the block schedule will be that students participating in athletics
and activities will have to have an overall 75 or higher average, rather than a 70 average as in the
past.
NOTE: the Carnegie units increase from 21 to 24 units by the State Department of Education in
2008-2009. The students will then be required to pass 6 units of credit during the school year
with a 75 average or better in order to maintain eligibility. Those students who opt out of the
Mississippi schools curriculum and need 21 credits to graduate, will be required to pass five
credits toward graduation to be eligible. However, they must pass six credits one of those four
years of eligibility.
STUDENT WITH UNSATISFACTORY CONDUCT WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO
REPRESENT THE SDSD IN ANY SCHOOL-SPONSORED ACTIVITY.
Students who have been suspended or expelled shall not participate in extra-curricular
activities nor shall they be permitted to attend any events.
Parents, visitors or other unauthorized persons shall not board a bus.
Legal guardians must execute the permission form on the following page.
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PERMISSION FORM AND COVENANT NOT TO SUE
DATA REQUIRED FOR PRIVACY ACT OF 1974
Authority. Title 10, U.S. Code 2301. Purpose: to release the State of Mississippi, South
Delta School District, South Delta High School & Vocational Complex, and any and all
chaperones from liability for injury, death, or damages for students participating in voluntary
High School programs. NOTICE: Disclosure of personal information may be provided to
proper authorities in actions regarding law enforcement, legal actions, and investigations of
accidents resulting from such voluntary off-campus activities. Failure to complete this form
will disqualify the student from participating in the specified voluntary activity.
I, (Parent/Guardian Name) __________________________________________ residing at
the following address ______________________________________, do hereby agree that
in consideration for allowing (Name of Student) __________________________________
to participate in the following activity (Type of Activity) _____________________________
____________________________________which is a South Delta High School/Vocational
Complex supervised activity, and adhering to this type of activity, I hereby RELEASE AND
DISCHARGE FOREVER, the State of Mississippi, South Delta School District, South Delta
High School/Vocational Complex, and all its officers, agents, and employees, acting
officially or otherwise, from any and all claims, demands, actions or causes of action, on
account of myself or on account of any injury to me which may occur from any cause during
said activity or continuances thereof. I do further covenant and agree to hold the said State of
Mississippi, South Delta School District, South Delta High School/Vocational Complex, and
all its officers, agents, employees, acting officially or otherwise, blameless for any and all
damages which I may intentionally or through my negligence.
Student will depart from __________________ Time we will depart _______
Where we are going ______________________When we will return________
_________________________________ _________________________________
Printed Name of Parent or Guardian Signature of Parent or Guardian
Who do we contact in an Emergency? Name, Phone Number, and Relationship to student
Two alternative contacts; Name Phone Number, and Relationship to student
Name Phone Relationship
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SENATE BILL 2239 Mississippi School Safety Act of 2001 Disruptive Behavior and
Habitually Disruptive Section 6
This section establishes definitions for disruptive behavior and habitually disruptive student.
‚ Disruptive behavior is defined as conduct that is so unruly, disruptive or abusive that it
seriously interferes with a school teacher’s or administrator’s ability to communicate
with students in the classroom, with students ability to learn, or with the operations of
a school or school related activity, and which is not covered by other laws related to
violence or possession of weapons or controlled substances on school property, school
vehicles or at school related activities.
‚ Habitually disruptive student refers to the action of a student who has caused
disruption in a classroom, on school property or vehicles or at school related activity
on more than two (2) occasions during a school year and which was initiated by the
student and required the attention of school personnel to deal with the disruption. No
student shall be considered habitually disruptive before the development of a behavior
modification plan by the principal, teacher and parent.
‚ Any student who is thirteen (13) years of age or older that does not comply with the
behavior modification plan shall be deemed habitually disruptive and subject to
automatic expulsion on the occurrence of the third act of disruptive behavior during a
school year. After the second act of disruptive behavior during a school year by a
student younger than thirteen (13), a psychological evaluation shall be performed upon
the child.
‚ NOTE: House Bill 1609 includes a provision that requires a provision that requires
local school districts to report to the State Department of Education all expulsions
authorized under this Section. The Department shall annually report this information
to the legislature by January. In addition, House Bill 1609 gives the Department
authority to expend up to $300,000 to assist and train districts in the development of
behavior modification plans and to defray the costs of psychological evaluations.
SCHOOL DAY PICTURES
Details of school day pictures will be announced as they become available.
STUDENT RECORDS
Enrollment, attendance, scholastic, and discipline records of the students are personal records,
and except upon the written request of the parents or guardians, information therein shall not be
released to persons other than the parent, guardian, or student.
Student rosters shall not be released to any individual or organization except the list of seniors
may be released to the State Dept. of Education or any recognized institute of higher learning
with office approval.
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STUDENT VALUABLES
Students are encouraged not to bring large sums of money or other valuables to school.
Students, not the school, are responsible for their personal property.
TARDIES - REPORTING TO SCHOOL LATE
A student reporting to school late must report to the office for an admission slip. Students will
be suspended for a parent conference after three unexcused tardies. The student must be
brought back to school by the parent or guardian. Three unexcused tardies will equal to one
absentee. Students reporting for class 20 minutes late (unexcused) will count as absent for that
period.
Only the following tardies will be excused:
• being detained by a school administrator
• being detained by a counselor
• being detained by a teacher
Oversleeping, missing your ride, a clock failing to ring, or have the wrong time, a car out of gas,
and other similar reasons are unexcused.
Tardies due to late buses will be excused. Tardies will not count against perfect attendance until
a student has been sent to the office for the third tardy.
TELEPHONE
Telephones throughout the school are for business use only. Students using telephones without
permission shall be subject to disciplinary action.
During school hours, someone in the director’s office will receive and deliver messages from
parents to students. Students will not be called from classes to answer the telephone. Messages
(except in emergency situations) will be delivered at the end of the class period.
Student may use a telephone in the office for emergency situations for twenty-five cents.
(Emergency situations will be determined by office’s personnel).
TEXTBOOKS
Students are allowed to use textbooks locally owned by the South Delta School District.
Parents/legal guardians and students have full responsibility for the books at all times. A record
of issuance of textbooks to each student is kept by the school. Students are responsible for proper
care and maintenance of any textbooks issued to them for instructional purposes. Books will be
returned at the end of the school year, or at the request of the teacher. Any damages will be
assessed at that time, a fine determined and parents will be responsible for restitution. If a book
is lost, misplaced or damaged in any way, the parent and student are responsible for paying the
assessed value of the book. No student will receive a transcript from the office nor be issued new
books until all book fines have been paid, or legal proceeding may be filed to collect the same.
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Workbooks (when mandated) to be used as supplements to textbooks that are approved by the
principal and teachers must be furnished by the student/parent or legal guardian.
TOBACCO
Use of tobacco in any form is prohibited during school, on school grounds, at school-related
activities and going to and from school.
VANDALISM:
Any deliberate act of breaking and entering for the express purpose of destruction or theft
constitutes vandalism, and vandals will be punished to the full extent of the law. Acts of
vandalism include illegal entrance to the buildings, teacher’s desk or personal belongings,
students’ lockers, school buses, stadium and athletic fields, or the campus itself, and the marring
or defacing of property. The student vandal will be subject to suspension or expulsion; in
addition, he or she may be turned over to law enforcement officials, as well. Parents or
guardians will be held financially responsible for any and all damages.
South Delta School District shall be entitled to recover damages in an amount not to exceed
Twenty Thousand Dollars (20,000.00), plus necessary court, costs, from the parents of any minor
under the age of eighteen (18) years and over the age of six (6), who maliciously and willfully
damages or destroys property belonging to such school district. However, this section shall not
apply to parents whose control of such child has been removed by court or decree. The action
authorized in this section shall be in addition to all other actions which the school district is to
maintain and nothing in this section shall preclude recovery in a greater amount from the minor
or from a person, including the parents, for damages to which such minor or other person would
otherwise be liable.
Parents or guardians of pupils damaging school property will be held financially responsible for
such damage. Should the parent fail to make restitution, the pupil will be subject to grades being
withheld by the principal until satisfactory adjustments are made by the parent with the
superintendent or suit may be filed to collect said damages.
VISITORS
Under no circumstances is a student to bring a visitor into the classroom without the written
consent of the director or principal.
All visitors (including students not actively at school) entering the building and grounds must
report directly to the principal/director’s office to secure a visitor’s pass, or they shall be treated
as trespassers.
Persons bringing items such as lunch, medications, etc. must bring these items to the office.
No visitor’s children shall be brought to school and classes during the school day to either sit in
or observe.
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WEAPONS, DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
Any student who possesses a weapon- or any object which may be classified as a weapon - in or
on the campuses or buildings of the South Delta School District, at any school-sponsored or
school-related activity or function, or on the school bus, or school-sponsored transportation may
be expelled from school for a period not less than
one calendar year.
Scissors shall not be brought to school by students. If a project requires scissors, the
teacher/sponsor must provide the appropriate type.
ALCOHOL OR ILLEGAL DRUGS
Any student found to be in possession or under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances,
as defined by Mississippi Code 1972 as amended, 41-29-113 (not prescribed by a licensed
medical doctor for that person) on any campus of the South Delta School District or any school-
sponsored activity, function, or event, or on the school bus shall be expelled for the remainder of
the school year.
Furthermore, any testimony given by any person to the principal, superintendent, or Board of
Trustees regarding possession of alcohol or controlled substances can be used against the person
in a court of law. Any person testifying as to his or her ownership of alcohol or controlled
substances possessed by a student shall be required to divulge ownership of any alcohol or
controlled substance to law enforcement authorities prior to testifying to school authorities in a
hearing for expulsion of any student.
WITHDRAWALS
A student withdrawing from school must pick up a withdrawal form from the counselor’s office.
Upon securing all the signatures on the form, the student is to return to the counselor’s office for
further instructions.
Parents of students who are withdrawing from school or transferring to another school must
come to the school with the student. There are several forms that require a parent’s or guardian’s
signature before the school can transfer records of students who are withdrawing from South
Delta High School.
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STUDENT BEHAVIOR
CONSEQUENCES CODE INFRACTION
1
ST
OFFENSE 2
ND
OFFENSE 3
RD
OFFENSE
AFSC On campus after 3:30
PM/not participating in after
school activities
1 day In –School
Suspension
2 days In-School
Suspension
3 days suspension
ASSEM Misbehavior in assembly 2 days In-School
Suspension
5 days in school
suspension
2 days suspension
CUCL Cutting assembly or class 3 days In -School
Suspension
4 days In-School
Suspension
3 days suspension
CUCL Abuse of hall pass privilege Conference with
student
Parent conference 3 days in school
suspension
DEAU Gambling Money confiscated
and 3 days In
school suspension
Money confiscated
and 5 days In-
School Suspension
Student will be placed in
Alternative Education
DERT Disrespect for teachers 3 days in school
suspension
5 days in school
suspension
Student will be placed in
Alternative Education
DIAR Distracting articles
(including cellular phones)
Item (s) will be
confiscated,
3 days in school
suspension and a
parent conference
5 days in In-
School Suspension
and a parent
conference
Student will be placed in
Alternative Education
DIAR Bringing toys (K-5) 2 days In-School
Suspension
4 days In-School
Suspension
5 days In-School
Suspension
DRCO Violation of dress code (this
include not wearing
uniform)
Warning/parent
conference call
3 days In-School
Suspension
5 In School days
suspension
DRCO Sagging Pants Warning 3 days In-School
Suspension
1 day suspension
EXTC Tardy to class, not in
assigned seat when tardy
bell sound
After the second
tardy, warning and
parent conference
After the third
tardy the student
will receive 1
unexcused
absence.
Student will be suspended
for a parent conference
FIGH Fighting 3 to 5 days
suspension
5 days suspension Student will be placed in
Alternative Education
FIWO Use of fireworks 3 days In-School
suspension
5 days In-School
Suspension
5 days suspension
HARRAS
Harassment 3 to 5 days
suspension
5 days suspension Student will be placed in
Alternative Education
LECL Leaving class without
permission
Warning/parent
conference/3 days
In- School
suspension
5 days In-School
suspension
3 days suspension
LESC Leaving campus without
permission
3 days In-School
Suspension
5 days In- School
suspension
Student will be placed in
Alternative Education
PROF Cursing a teacher or staff
member
3 day suspension 5 days suspension Student will be placed in
Alternative Education
PROF Other use of profanity,
vulgarity, obscenity
(including pornography)
3 day In-School
Suspension
5 days In-School
suspension
3 day suspension
REIN Abuse of automobile
privilege
Warning/parent
conference
Privilege taken
away for 1 month
Privilege taken away for
the remainder of the year
REIN
Student in off-limit area
Parent conference
3 days suspension
Student will be place in
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3 days In-School
Suspension
parent/conference Alternative Education
REIN Misbehavior in cafeteria Parent/conference
corporal
punishment
3 days In-School
Suspension
5 days In-School
Suspension
REIN Food, drink or gum in
classroom
Confiscate the
items and warns
student
Parent conference
3 days In-School
Suspension
Parent conference, 5 days
In-School Suspension
SEXM Public display of affection
(hugging, kissing, caressing,
sitting on someone’s lap,
etc.)
Warning/parent
conference
3 days In-School
Suspension
5 days In-School
Suspension
SMOK Tobacco use/smoking
Alcohol/Drugs
Expulsion for
remainder of
school year
STEA Stealing Warning/parent
conference
Report to social
worker , law
enforcement may
be involved
3 days In-School
Suspension
5 days In-School
Suspension
VAND Vandalism Parent conference/
3 days In-School
Suspension
Restitution/5 days
suspension
*parents
responsible
Student will be placed in
Alternative Education
WEAP Possession of weapon Expulsion from
school one
calendar year
• All students’ suspension will include a parent conference.
• Students will not be allowed to return to school until a parent conference has been held with the
principal.
• All student suspensions will be reported to school attendance officer, social worker and
superintendent’s office.
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STUDENT ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY AGREEMENT
South Delta School District
Acceptable Use Policy for Faculty, Staff, Students, Parents, Community
CIPA/COPPA
South Delta School District is both CIPA and COPPA compliant. Therefore, this is a legal and binding
document. CIPA (Children’s Internet Protection Act of 1999) and COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy
Protection Act of 1998) have basic requirements requiring schools to have some type of filtering or blocking
technology on all computers with Internet access and to have an Internet safety policy (Acceptable Use Policy)
for anyone accessing the Internet through South Delta School District.
Personal Safety
Users in South Delta School District will not disclose, use, disseminate or divulge personal and/or private
information about himself/herself, minors or any others including personal identification information such as
full name, birth date, social security number, telephone number, etc.
Unacceptable Usage
Use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right. Unacceptable and/or illegal use may result in denial, revocation,
suspension and/or cancellation of the user’s privileges, as well as disciplinary action imposed by school
officials.
Users must agree not to access, transmit, retransmit or download
any material(s) in furtherance of any illegal act or conspiracy to commit any illegal act in violation of
local, state, or federal law or regulations and/or school district policy
copyrighted materials (including plagiarism, downloading music, etc), threatening, harassing, or
obscene material, pornographic material, or material protected by trade secret, and/or any other
material that is inappropriate to minors
information that could cause danger or disruption or engage in personal attacks, including prejudicial
or discriminatory attacks
information that harasses another person or causes distress to another person
any material that promotes violence or the destruction of persons or property
programs or files from the Internet without prior approval from the teacher or administrator
User Rights
1. Users shall have the responsibility to use computer resources for academic purposes. Therefore, as
mandated by CIPA, filtering will be utilized on all computers accessing the Internet.
2. The South Delta School District will fully cooperate with local, state or federal officials in any
investigation related to illegal activities conducted through the Internet.
3. Individual schools within the district may create additional guidelines and procedures consistent with
this policy.
4. The school district may include a process for the student to appeal the decision to deny, suspend,
revoke or cancel Internet privileges.
I have read and understand the South Delta School District Internet Acceptable Use Policy and
will abide by the terms and conditions as stated.
**User Signature _________________________________ Date __________________
If user is a student, a parent or guardian must also sign the Acceptable Use Policy.
**Parent Signature ________________________________ Date __________________
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SOUTH DELTA SCHOOL DISTRICT
STUDENT HANDBOOK
We hereby acknowledge that we have read the parent-student handbook.
We agree that __________________________________________ should be held
(Name of Student)
accountable for these rules and regulations.
____________________________ _________________________
Student’s Signature Date
____________________________ _________________________
Parents/ Guardian Signature Date
Homeroom Teacher Verification _________________________
Date
Initials ________
NOTE: Please detach and return this page to your child’s teacher.
