Missoula County Public Schools
School District
STUDENT HANDBOOK
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Dear Big Sky Students & Families-
As we embark on the 2022-2023 school year, we know that this year will bring new challenges, new
opportunities for growth and a sense of teamwork that we have never seen before at Big Sky. I am proud
to be Big Sky’s Principal leading our students, staff and families through this chapter that will forever be
remembered! I have been dedicated to education in Missoula County Public Schools for the past 19 years
and look forward to this year with you.
Along with the teachers and staff, I will work hard to continue the legacy of successful academic
programs including International Baccalaureate, Health Science Academy, Career and Technical
Education & Agriculture Center. This year at Big Sky we will focus on creating strong systems for
health, safety, academics, school pride and culture. Big Sky is also working towards developing
additional Academies to help prepare students for life after high school. We welcome involvement in all
of the amazing programs we have at Big Sky.
All of us at Big Sky High School are eager and excited to begin this new school year together! We will
continue to provide academic experiences for our students that are rigorous, relevant and help them build
relationships while making real-world connections. As your Principal, it is important to me that everyone
who steps through our doors-teachers, staff, students, and parents are excited and feel a sense of support.
I look forward to working with you as a team to help each student at Big Sky High School meet their
goals and have a successful school year!
Jennifer Courtney
Principal, Big Sky High School
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Front Office Staff
Principal: Jennifer Courtney, ext. 8026; jccourtney@mcpsmt.org
Assistant Principal: BJ Ihde, ext. 8025; bjihde@mcpsmt.org
Assistant Principal/Activities & Athletic Director: Sabrina Beed, ext. 8028; sjbeed@mcpsmt.org
Dean of Students: Crissina Quinn, ext. 8088; crquinn@mcpsmt.org
Main Office Secretary: Debi Turner, ext. 8020; dturner@mcpsmt.org
Activities Secretary: Becca Peterson, ext. 8022; rpeterson@mcpsmt.org
Bookkeeping: Staci Beaver ext. 8023; sbeaver@mcpsmt.org
Attendance: Sabine Sriraman, ext. 8027; ssriraman@mcpsmt.org
Follow us on:
Instagram: bigskyhs
Facebook: Big Sky High School @bigskyhighschool
Twitter: https://twitter.com/bigskyhs
https://twitter.com/bigskyathletics
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Daily Schedule
Monday, Tuesday,
Friday
Wednesday Thursday
Zero Period 8:00 – 8:50 Zero Period 8:00 – 8:50 Zero Period 8:00 – 8:50
1
st
8:55 – 9:45
1
st
8:55 – 10:25
Advisory,
Make-Up Work,
Intervention,
Outreach,
Programs,
Assemblies
2
nd
9:50 – 10:40
9:40 – 10:25
3
rd
10:45 – 11:35
3
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10:30 – 12:00
2
nd
10:30 – 12:00
4
th
11:40 – 12:30
Lunch 12:30 – 1:15 Lunch 12:00 – 12:50 Lunch 12:00 – 12:50
5
th
1:15 – 2:05
5
th
12:50 – 2:20
4
th
12:50 – 2:20
6
th
2:10 – 3:00
7th 3:05 – 3:55 7th 2:25 – 3:55
6
th
2:25 – 3:55
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The Missoula County Public Schools District High School Student Handbook contains information that
students and parents are likely to need during the school year. The handbook is organized alphabetically
by topic. Throughout the handbook, the term “the student’s parent” is used to refer to the parent, legal
guardian, or other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student.
The Student Handbook is designed to be in harmony with Board policy. Please note that references to policy
codes are included to help parents confirm current policy. A copy of the District’s Policy Manual is available
in the school office. All current policies can be viewed on the MCPS website.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2022-2023
The Board of Trustees would like to extend an invitation to students, parents and community members to
come to board meetings throughout the school year and summer. We would also like to encourage you to
share with us your concerns, ideas, and general comments. We will be available to listen to and we will
provide guidance on how to get your concerns addressed through the proper channels.
• Jeffrey Avgeris
o Email: javgeris@mcpsmt.org
• Grace M. Decker
o Email: gdecker@mcpsmt.org
• Nancy Hobbins
o Email: nhobbins@mcpsmt.org
• Koan Mercer
o Email: kmercer@mcpsmt.org
• Wilena Old Person
o Email: [email protected]
• Karen Sherman
o Email: ksh[email protected]
• Jennifer Vogel (represents Seeley Lake, Swan Valley, Clinton, Potomac and Sunset)
o Email: jvogel@mcpsmt.org
• Arlene Walker-Andrews (represents Target Range and Bonner K-8 districts)
o Email: awalker-andrews@mcpsmt.org
• Meg Whicher
o Email: mwhicher@mcpsmt.org
• Keegan Witt
o Email: kwitt@mcpsmt.org
• Rob Woelich (represents Hellgate K-8 School district)
o Email: rwoelich@mcpsmt.org
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Missoula County Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex,
religion, creed, physical or mental disability, economic or social conditions, sexual orientation, gender
identity, gender nonconformity, or actual or potential marital or parental status in providing education
services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VII of the
Civil Rights Act, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.
ALLERGIES
The District has procedures for the management of life threatening allergies of students. Information
about these procedures may be found on the District’s website under the student services then health
services tab.
Life threatening reactions are called anaphylaxis (pronounced an-a-fi-LAK-sis). Anaphylaxis can occur
from stinging or biting insects, medication, foods or latex. Anaphylaxis is a collection of symptoms
affecting multiple systems of the body. The onset of these symptoms is most commonly immediate,
although may be delayed by hours. The symptoms can include:
• Mouth: Itchy, swelling of tongue and/or lips
• Throat: Itchy, tightness/closure, hoarseness, trouble breathing/swallowing
• Skin: Itchy, hives, redness, swelling, red watery eyes
• Gut: Nausea, vomiting, cramps, diarrhea
• Lung: Short of breath, wheeze, repetitive cough
• Heart: Pale or blue skin color, dizzy/faint, weak pulse
• Neurological: Sense of "impending doom", irritability, change in alertness, mood change, confusion
On occasion, other students and parents may be asked to limit bringing in certain items due to another
student’s life threatening allergy. Your cooperation with these needed restrictions is greatly appreciated
and important to keep all children safe.
ATTENDANCE
Education is a cooperative venture to which the student learner, the teacher, and the parent/guardian
contribute. The collaboration of students with one another in the classroom, coupled with their
participation in well-planned learning activities under the guidance of a classroom teacher, are vital to
their mastery of subjects and skills conducive to a productive life. This established principle of
education underlies and gives purpose to the requirement of compulsory schooling in every state in
the nation. Public education exists as the foundation for developing the communication and
collaboration skills necessary for participating on the global stage.
Because regular school attendance is integral to this process and to the individual success of each
student, Missoula County Public Schools provides a structure within which students in grades Pre-K
through twelve can gain the maximum benefit from the instructional program.
Enrolled students are expected to be in attendance every day as required by law and/or District policy
and procedures. MCPS Policy 3122
Compulsory Attendance
Parents are responsible for seeing that their children of age seven (7) or older prior to the first day of
school, attend school until the later of the following dates:
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1. The child’s sixteenth (16th) birthday;
2. The date of completion of the work of the eighth (8
th
) grade.
Parents shall enroll the student unless the student is:
1. Provided with supervised correspondence or home study;
2. Excused because of a determination by a district judge that attendance is not in the best interests
of the child;
3. Enrolled in a non-public or home school;
4. Enrolled in a school of another district or state under the tuition provisions of this title
5. Excused by the Board upon a determination that such attendance by a child who has attained the
age of sixteen (16) is not in the best interests of the child and the school.
Missoula County Public Schools will continue tuition-free attendance of resident students not reaching 19
years of age by September 10. Students in MCPS are expected to attend and be enrolled as full time
students. However, with the approval of the building principal and Superintendent or designee, students
may be enrolled less than full-time if the student is enrolled for at least one clock hour per day (including
passing periods). This applies to students currently enrolled in MCPS’ schools as well as home school
students and private school students. This provision applies to students in grades K-12. Part-time
students must participate in the state wide student assessment which any student in the grades designated
for assessment is required to take.
Any student who wishes to receive a diploma from a Missoula County Public School high school, must
be enrolled as a full-time student during his/her senior year and meet the same credit requirements as
other students in MCPS’ schools.
A full-time senior student is defined as a student enrolled in a minimum of four (4) classes. Exceptions to
this allow for university enrolled high school students, District-directed school-to-work and service
learning experiences, as approved by the principal and Superintendent. Any student who has been
expelled from another school district will not be allowed to attend or enroll in MCPS during the term of
expulsion from the expelling school district. MCPS Policy 3120
Attendance Procedures
Education is a cooperative venture to which the student, the teacher and the parent/guardian contribute.
Prompt, regular attendance in school is an important factor in determining a student's academic success,
including success in meeting state and local requirements for graduation. Students who attend school
consistently develop better socially, establish better communication with their teachers, acquire important
lifetime habits such as dependability, self-sufficiency, and responsibility and have greater success
academically. Missoula County Public Schools recognizes that school attendance is the responsibility of
the student and parent/guardian, supported by the teachers and administration. The following procedures
are designed to encourage regular and punctual school attendance so that learning can take place. It is
intended to be positive and not punitive, and all measures taken will be in the students’ best interest.
These practices and procedures will assist families and school personnel in making attendance decisions.
A. Student's Responsibility: It is the student's responsibility to:
1. Attend all assigned classes and other instructional activities on time every day that school is in
session;
2. Be aware of and follow the correct procedures when absent from an assigned class or other
instructional activity;
3. Request any missed assignments due to an absence; and
4. Complete assigned work in a timely manner.
B. Parent or Guardian's Responsibility: It is the responsibility of the student's parent/guardian to:
1. Ensure the student is attending school;
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2. Inform the school in the event of a student absence;
3. Be aware of and follow the correct procedures for reporting student absence; and
4. Work cooperatively with the school and the student to resolve any attendance issues that may
arise.
Students are required to attend all assigned classes and/or other instructional activities every day
school is in session, unless the student has a valid excuse for absence, in accordance with Section 20-
5-103, MCA.
C. Excused Absences: These include family authorized absences and school authorized absences.
The following reasons shall be sufficient to constitute excused absences:
1. Family authorized excused absences:
a. Personal illness
b. Family emergency or death in the family
c. Medical or dental treatment
d. Other activities as approved by the school
2. School authorized excused absences
a. Approved field trips
b. Interscholastic competitions and events
c. Other activities as approved by the school
D. Unexcused Absences: - These are absences which are not authorized by the parent/guardian or the
school. The following absences are examples of absences which will not be excused:
1. Leaving school premises without authorization from the nurse, the attendance office or the
principals’ offices;
2. Failing to attend class (while remaining on the premises) without advanced permission;
3. Family trips/vacations for which no prior arrangement have been made with the school;
4. Other absences not authorized by the school or parent/guardian.
E. Reporting Student Absences
When a student must be absent from school, the parent/guardian is requested to notify the school’s
attendance office, whenever possible, in advance of the absence. If the school attendance office does
not receive advance notice, the school will make a reasonable effort to contact a parent/guardian to
verify the student absence. If the school is unable to contact a student’s parent/guardian after a
reasonable effort has been made, the absence will be recorded as unexcused. Single or multiple
absences that are not verified by a parent/guardian, or which have been recorded as unexcused, may
be handled as part of the disciplinary process.
Whenever possible, students are to request make-up work in advance of the absence and to complete
work according to the timelines established by the individual teacher.
Absences necessitated by student participation in field trips or extra-curricular activities must be
excused in advance. The participating student is responsible to secure each teacher’s signature on a
pre-arranged absence slip and request homework assignments prior to the date of the absence.
F. Procedure for Student Prearranged Absences
All absences other than illness and family emergencies should be planned for in advance.
Prearranged Absence forms are available in the Attendance Office.
Students participating in school-related activities must fill out the Activities Prearranged Absence
forms. This form is to be picked up from the coach or sponsor of the activity and returned
complete to them at the time the coach sets. The list of students attending the activity should be
handed in to the Attendance Office by 3:00 p.m. the day preceding the trip. Also, notify the
attendance office of any changes occurring the day of the event before leaving.
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G. Attendance Intervention
Each school will develop an attendance intervention committee. At the beginning of each school
year, the attendance intervention committee will confer regarding students who have had attendance
issues in the past. This will provide an opportunity for proactive intervention by the school and the
family of the student.
Students accruing six (6) or more absences in a semester will be considered at-risk for developing
chronic absenteeism. A sixth absence in a semester will result in an attendance letter to the parent
and a referral to the attendance intervention committee for review. Unexcused absences may result in
a referral to the attendance intervention team prior to the sixth absence. The attendance intervention
committee may, at any time, intervene on behalf of student considered to be at-risk as a result of
attendance issues.
A student accruing ten (10) or more absences in a semester will be considered chronically absent.
The school principal or designee will contact the student’s parent/guardian to confer regarding
attendance interventions. High school students accruing excessive absences may have class credit
placed on hold until an appropriate attendance intervention plan has been developed and
implemented. Chronic absenteeism may result in a referral to Child and Family Services or to the
Missoula County Attorney as a child truant from school in accordance with Section 20-5-106, MCA.
Repeated instances of tardiness will result in more severe disciplinary action.
Make-up work schedule:
1 day absence - 2 days make up time
2 days absence - 3 days make up time
More than 2 days absence - 1 week make up time
Make-up work schedule for suspended students:
Students, who have been suspended for behavior, will have an opportunity to complete missed
homework; however they will have no additional time to complete the work. It is the responsibility
of the suspended student to contact their teacher about missed work and complete it independently as
if they were in attendance. Teachers will have individual discretion to grant additional time. Tests
missed during suspension will be taken on the day the student returns from their suspension.
Human Sexuality Instruction Absence
A student may be absent from a class period, assembly, school function, or other instruction at
the request of a parent/guardian/other person responsible for care when the subject matter is
related to human sexuality. These absences do not count toward the student’s discretionary 10-
day total. The District will provide parents/guardians with at least 48-hours notice before such
instruction is scheduled to occur.
AWARDING HONOR ROLL STATUS
Honor Roll designations may denote 3.0, 3.5, or 4.0 levels of achievement.
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BULLYING/HARASSMENT/INTIMIDATION/HAZING
The policy of the Board of Trustees of Missoula County Public Schools is to provide students and staff
with a school environment free from bullying, harassment, and intimidation. Missoula County Public
School District will not tolerate bullying, harassment, or intimidation in any form at school or school-
sponsored activities and events, including off campus events, school buses, any event related to school
business, or, through the use of electronic communications, that substantially and materially disrupts the
orderly operations of the District.
Bullying is any harassment, intimidation, hazing, or threatening, insulting, or demeaning gesture or
physical contact, including any intentional written, verbal, or electronic communication or threat directed
against a student that is persistent, severe, or repeated and that:
· causes a student physical harm, damages a student’s property, or places a student in reasonable fear of
harm to the student or the student’s property;
· creates a hostile environment by interfering with or denying a student’s access to an educational
opportunity or benefit; or
· substantially and materially disrupts the orderly operation of a school.
Bullying (including cyber-bullying), harassment, intimidation, or hazing, by students, staff, or third
parties, is strictly prohibited and shall not be tolerated.
All complaints about behavior that may violate this policy shall be promptly investigated.
Bullying/Harassment forms are available in the Attendance Office.
Retaliation is prohibited against any person who reports or is thought to have reported a violation, files a
complaint, or otherwise participates in an investigation or inquiry.
For additional information, please see MCPS Policy 3225.
CELL PHONES
The possession and use of cellular phones, pagers, and other electronic signaling devices on school
grounds, at school-sponsored activities, or while otherwise under the supervision and control of District
employees is a privilege.
Students are prohibited from operating a cell phone or other electronic device (or camera embedded in
such device) while in a locker room, bathroom, or any other location where the privacy rights of others
may be violated.
Secondary students may use cellular phones, pagers, and other electronic signaling devices on
campus before school begins, during the lunch period, and after the school day ends. These devices
must be kept out of sight and turned off during the instructional day (including time out of a classroom on
a hall pass and during study halls). Unauthorized use of such devices disrupts the instructional program,
contributes to tardiness, and distracts from the learning environment. Therefore, school officials,
including classroom teachers, may confiscate such devices when used inappropriately. Confiscated
devices will only be returned to the parent or guardian. Repeated unauthorized use of such devices may
result in progressive disciplinary action. For additional information, please see MCPS Policy 3630.
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COLLEGE ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIPS
Students have a responsibility to register on the NCAA Clearinghouse website if they believe they may
compete athletically at the college level. There are requirements for Division I and Division II schools,
which include core classes and grade point average requirements. NAIA Colleges may have academic
requirements which students should investigate.
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE AND ILLNESS
To protect children from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not
allowed to come to school while contagious. Parents of a student with a communicable or
contagious disease should phone the school nurse or principal so that other students who may
have been exposed to the disease can be alerted.
These diseases include, but are not limited to:
Amebiasis Mumps
Campylobacteriosis Pinkeye
Chickenpox Ringworm of the scalp
Diptheria Rubella (German Measles)
Gastroenteritis Scabies
Hepatitis Shigellosis
Influenza Streptococcal disease, invasive
Measles (Rubeola) Tuberculosis
Meningitis Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Coronavirus
COMPLAINTS BY STUDENTS AND PARENTS
Usually student or parent complaints or concerns can be addressed simply — by a phone call or a
conference with the teacher. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled so easily, the
District has adopted a uniform grievance procedure policy. For additional information, see MCPS Policy
1700.
If a student or parent believes that the Board, its employees, or agents have violated their rights, he or she
may file a written complaint with any District Principal or Supervisor. If still unresolved, the matter
generally may be referred to the Superintendent. Under some circumstances, the District provides for the
complaint to be presented to the Board of Trustees in the event the matter cannot be resolved at the
administrative level.
Some complaints require different procedures. Any building office or the Superintendent’s office can
provide information regarding specific processes for filing complaints.
COMPUTER RESOURCES
Computer resources, including the District’s electronic networks, are an integral part of the District’s
instructional program. Use of these resources is a privilege, not a right. Students have no expectation of
privacy in material that is stored, transmitted, or received via the District’s electronic networks or the
District’s computers. General rules for behavior and communications apply when using the District’s
computer resources. Students must sign the Acceptable Use Agreement prior to being authorized to use
the District’s computer resources. For additional information, see MCPS Policy 3612.
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CONDUCT
In order for students to take advantage of available learning opportunities and to be productive members
of our campus community, each student is expected to:
Demonstrate courtesy — even when others do not.
Behave in a responsible manner and exercise self-discipline.
Attend all classes, regularly and on time.
Prepare for each class; take appropriate materials and assignments to class.
Meet District or building standards of grooming and dress.
Obey all building and classroom rules.
Respect the rights and privileges of other students, teachers, and other District staff.
Respect the property of others, including District property and facilities.
Cooperate with or assist the school staff in maintaining safety, order, and discipline.
Applicability of School Rules and Discipline
To achieve the best possible learning environment for all our students, rules and discipline for each high
school in the Missoula County Public Schools district will apply:
On, or within sight of, school grounds before, during or after school hours or at any other time when
the school is being used by a school group;
Off school grounds at a school sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a
reasonable relationship to school;
Traveling to and from school or a school activity, function or event; and
Anywhere, including virtual networks, if conduct may reasonably be considered to be a threat or an
attempted intimidation of a staff member, an interference with school purposes or an educational
function, or a threat to the safety and welfare of the student population, or conduct that detrimentally
affects the climate or efficient operations of the school.
Violation of Student Code of Conduct
A student’s past discipline records, individual circumstances and severity of a particular incident will
determine the specific nature of the consequences. The school administration reserves the right to
determine the level of disciplinary action taken depending upon the severity of the infraction. All
discipline is cumulative for students during their years in Missoula County Public High Schools.
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Infraction
Possible Consequences/Depending upon
the Severity of the Infraction.
Use/Possession of Alcohol: Shows evidence of
being under the influence or in possession of
alcohol by look, smell, action, or result of Passive
Alcohol Sensor (PAS). Refusal to comply with
administrative request to submit to PAS will
constitute evidence of use and result in
commensurate consequence.
OSS/ISS or Refocus (3-5 days) and police
contact
OSS/ISS or Refocus (5-10 days) and police
contact
OSS (10 days and/or possible
recommendation for expulsion
Students are automatically referred to
Project SUCCESS where available.
Use/Possession of Tobacco: Use or possession
of tobacco products and paraphernalia, including
electronic or smokeless devices, is strictly prohibited
in the school or on the school grounds.
Police Contact, citation, detentions or
suspension or option to attend Tobacco
Cessation classes where available.
Police contact, citation, and OSS/ISS or
Refocus (1-5 days)
Use/Possession of Drugs: Shows evidence of
being under the influence or in possession of illegal
drugs by look, smell or action. Includes possession
of drug paraphernalia.
OSS/ISS or Refocus (3-5 days) and police
contact
OSS/ISS or Refocus (5-10 days) and police
contact
OSS (10 days and/or possible recommendation
for expulsion
Students are automatically referred to Project
SUCCESS where available.
Transfer/Distribution/Sale of Drugs: Evidence
of reasonable suspicion of student engagement in
the transfer/distribution/sale of illegal drugs.
Police contact and OSS 10 days and possible
recommendation for expulsion.
Weapons Possession: Having or transferring
weapons, (including but not limited to) knives, guns,
martial arts weapons, flammables, explosives or
anything that could cause danger to the health and
safety of students or staff. (Facsimiles of weapons
are considered to be weapons.)
Knives of any size are not allowed on campus.
Knives will be confiscated. Parent may pick up.
Subsequent offenses may result in suspension
or recommendation for expulsion.
OSS/ISS or Refocus (1-10 DAYS), police
contact and/or possible recommendation for
expulsion.
Threats or Physical Assault on School
Employee
OSS/ISS or Refocus (1-10 days) and police
contact
Possible recommendation for expulsion.
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Defiance/Insubordination/Class Disruption:
Includes insulting, verbal abuse, obscene language,
profanity or gestures, and disruption of the learning
environment.
Warning, detention, OSS/ISS or Refocus (1
day)
OSS/ISS or Refocus (2-5 days)
Harassment—Race, Religious, Cultural, or
Sexual: Any degrading or threatening act that fails
to respect the rights and feelings of others. May
include slander, prejudicial/discriminatory/
inappropriate comments, touching, innuendos, or
rumors. May also include any harassing or
threatening act conducted via text message, voice
message, email, sharing video evidence, or other
means of online communication. If the behavior or
its ramifications constitutes a disruption of the
learning environment, administrators reserve the
right to discipline students who threaten and/or
harass their classmates regardless of where or how
the specific behavior occurs.
Conference, investigation, detention, OSS/ISS
or Refocus(1-5 days)
Possible formal complaint and further
consequences.
Police contact
Misconduct, Inappropriate Behavior or
Disruption of Orderly School Process: Includes
tampering with fire alarm system, bomb threats,
arson, extortion, illegal entry, trespassing.
OSS/ISS or Refocus(1-5 days) and police
contact
Long term suspension (10 days) and/or
possible recommendation for expulsion.
Vandalism/Theft/ Malicious Mischief: Stealing
from the school or peers or defacing personal or
school property.
Detention/Restitution
Investigation and police contact
Police contact, OSS/ISS or Refocus (1-5 days)
Cell Phones: Cell phones are to be turned off` and
out of sight during class time, unless authorized by
the teacher. Class time includes release time for
senior study hall, activities, and time out of class
on a hall pass. Students may only use cell
phones before school begins, during passing
periods, during the lunch period, and after the
last class period is complete. Staff will confiscate
any cell phone that is being used or visible/heard
during unauthorized times. Refusal to hand over
cell phone to staff constitutes insubordination and
may result in ISS or OSS. Confiscated phones will
be returned to parent/guardian.
Warning by teacher
Confiscation, parent must pick up from office
Confiscation, parent must pick up, progressive
detentions, OSS/ISS or Refocus.
Cheating/Forgery/Pass Violations: An effort to
improve grades by copying notes, papers, looking at
another’s paper or test, plagiarism, etc.
Detention; zero for work; parent notification,
possible replacement assignment, OSS/ISS or
Refocus
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Using signatures not authorized by parent to school
authorities on progress reports, excuse slips, passes,
or impersonating parent calls for excuses.
Removal from class with failing grade;
OSS/ISS or Refocus (2-5 days)
Appearance/Attire for School/Dress Code:
Students may not wear revealing clothes or clothing
that advertises, depicts, or promotes illegal (or
controlled) substances, inappropriate language,
sexually explicit pictures, slogans or gang logos.
Correction of problem
Sent home to change/parent notification
OSS/ISS or Refocus (1-3 days)
Fighting/Assault: Physical attacks or fights
OSS/ISS or Refocus (1-3 days) and police
contact
OSS/ISS or Refocus (4-10 days) and police
contact
Altercation: Verbal quarreling; physical challenge
to fight.
Warning, detention, Mediation, OSS/ISS or
Refocus (1-3 days) and police contact
During lunch period, failure to disperse upon
staff request.
Loss of open campus privilege during lunch;
lunchroom restriction, detention
Inciting, Encouraging, or Supporting a Fight:
If a staff member responds to the scene of an
altercation or fight and orders the crowd to
disperse, anyone who does not leave the scene will
be disciplined. Sharing video evidence will be
considered inciting, encouraging or supporting a
fight.
Detention
OSS/ISS or Refocus(1-5 days)
Police contact
Truancy: Skipping a class, study hall or school day
without permission of parent/guardian.
Detention for each period missed
Possible loss of credit, OSS /ISS or Refocus (1-
5 days); contact with County Attorney for those
under
compulsory attendance age.
Tardies: HG: 0-5 min tardy period. 3 tardy per
class per quarter. 4
th
tardy: 1 detention. 5
th
tardy: 2
detentions. 6
th
tardy (or more) multiple
detentions/possible ISS. SENT: tardy after bell
until attendance is taken and instruction starts; not
to exceed 3 minutes. Three (3) tardies per class per
semester, 4
th
tardy- 1 detention, 5
th
tardy – 2
detentions, 6
th
tardy – 1 day Refocus Program, 7
th
tardy – 2 days Refocus Program/parent conference.
Tardy Absences have the same consequences.
(Tardy Absence is after tardy bell but within the first
15 min. of class.) BS: 5 min. limit as tardy.
Teacher penalty
Detention by Administration
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Closed Campus: Students must remain on school
grounds throughout the day EXCEPT during lunch.
Leaving grounds during lunch is a revocable
privilege.
Warning
Detention
Multiple detentions, OSS/ISS or Refocus
No Check-Out: Did not sign out with permission
from parent/guardian to leave campus
Absence remains unexcused
Warning/parent contact
Detention
Multiple detentions, OSS/ISS or Refocus (1-3
days)
Violation of Computer Acceptable Use Policy:
See further clarification in computer lab or on
signed agreement.
Warning or loss of computing privileges
Removal from class
OSS/ISS or Refocus(1-5 days)
Violation of MHSA Spectator Rules
(Sportsmanship)
Immediate removal from activity. Violation
may result in prohibitions from attending
further activities.
The Eagle Code
Big Sky aims to support the academic and behavioral needs to all students. To that end, the Big Sky
teaching and learning community firmly believes in the tenants of the Eagle Code, which are:
1) BE RESPECTFUL
Be considerate, polite and patient
Keep campus clean
Use appropriate and professional language at all times
2) BE RESPONSIBLE
Follow all school rules and policies
Do your best in all classes and activities
Attend school daily and be punctual
3) BE RESILIENT
Give best effort, even when faced with resistance
Take risks
Tolerate, value, and appreciate differences
4) BE AN EAGLE!
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Gun-Free Schools/Firearms
In accordance with the Gun Free School Act, any student who brings a firearm onto school
property shall be expelled for a period of not less than one calendar year unless the Board of
Trustees has authorized the school administration in writing to modify the requirement for
expulsion, including eliminating the requirement for expulsion, on a case-by-case basis.
An administrator may immediately suspend a student if there is cause to believe the student
brought a firearm to school or possessed a firearm at school prior to any board hearing on a
recommendation for expulsion. If there is a recommendation to expel a student for bringing a
firearm to school or possessing a firearm at school, the trustees shall notify the adult student or
parent/guardian of a minor student in a clear and timely manner that the student may waive his or
her privacy right by requesting the hearing be held in public and may invite other individuals to
attend the hearing. At a due process hearing on the recommendation for expulsion due to a
student bringing a firearm to school or possessing a firearm at school, there shall be a
presentation of a summary of the information leading to the allegations and an opportunity for
the student to respond to the allegations. The Board of Trustees is permitted to expel a student
only when the trustees determine that the student knowingly (had knowledge of the facts)
brought a firearm to school or possessed a firearm at school.
The Board of Trustees is not required to expel a student who has brought a firearm or possessed
a firearm at school as long as the firearm is secured in a locked container approved by the
District or in a locked motor vehicle the entire time the firearm is at school unless the firearm is
in use for a school-sanctioned instructional activity.
If a student is determined by trustees to not have knowingly brought or possessed a firearm at
school, the student’s record will be expunged of the incident.
CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
No person who is employed or engaged by the District may inflict or cause to be inflicted corporal
punishment on a student. Corporal punishment does not include, and district personnel are permitted to
use, reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for other students, school personnel, or other persons,
or for the purpose of self-defense.
COUNSELING
Academic Counseling
Students and parents are encouraged to talk with a school counselor, teacher, or principal to learn about
course offerings, the graduation requirements of various programs, and early graduation procedures.
Each spring, students in grades 8 through 11 will be provided information on anticipated course offerings
for the next year and other information that will help them make the most of academic and vocational
opportunities. [See Graduation Requirements on page 18]
Students who are interested in attending a college, university, or training school or pursuing some other
type of advanced education should work closely with their counselor so that they take the high school
courses that best prepare them. The counselor can also provide information about entrance examinations
and deadlines for application, as well as information about automatic admission to state colleges and
universities, financial aid, housing, and scholarships.
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Personal Counseling
School counselors are available to assist students with a wide range of personal concerns, including such
areas as social, family, or emotional issues, or substance abuse. Counselors may also make available
information about community resources to address these concerns. Students who wish to meet with a
counselor should contact guidance office.
Please note: The school will not conduct a psychological examination, test, or treatment without first
obtaining the parent’s written consent, unless required by state or federal law for special education
purposes.
DISCIPLINE AND DUE PROCESS
Students who violate District policies, rules, and directives are subject to discipline at the discretion of
District administration. Discipline may include referrals, detention, in-school suspension, out-of-school
suspension, and expulsion. Administrators have the discretion to impose, or in the case of expulsion,
recommend, the level of discipline deemed appropriate for the misconduct.
Suspension
An administrator has the authority to suspend a student for up to ten (10) school days. The student is
entitled to oral or written notification of the charges and is entitled to the opportunity to provide his or her
version. Immediate suspension when the student’s presence poses a continuing danger to persons or
property or an ongoing threat of disruption to the educational process may occur without notice or the
opportunity to be heard provided that notice and the opportunity to be heard shall follow as soon as
practicable. Notice of the suspension including an explanation of its basis and notice of the right to a
review of the suspension will be provided to the parents as soon as possible. At the request of the parents,
the building principal, Executive Regional Director, and/or the Superintendent will review the
appropriateness of the suspension. The decision of the Superintendent is final.
An administrator has the authority to extend a suspension for an additional ten (10) school days. Prior to
extending the suspension beyond the original length not to exceed ten days, the administrator must hold
an informal hearing with the student and determine that the student’s immediate return to the school
would be detrimental to the health, welfare, or safety of others, or would be disruptive to the educational
process. Students, who have been suspended for behavior, will have an opportunity to complete missed
homework; however they will have no additional time to complete the work. It is the responsibility of the
suspended student to contact their teacher about missed work and complete it independently as if they
were in attendance. Teachers will have individual discretion to grant additional time. Tests missed
during suspension will be taken on the day the student returns from their suspension.
Expulsion
Expulsion is any removal of a student for more than twenty (20) school days without the provision of
educational services. Only the Board of Trustees has the authority to expel a student after holding a
hearing that provides the student with an opportunity to be heard.
After an investigation into the student’s conduct, the administrator must notify the student’s parent of the
intent to proceed with an expulsion. The administrator must send a written notice to the superintendent
regarding the recommendation to expel the student, the specific charges against the student, a description
of the rule or regulation broken and supporting evidence.
The superintendent must send written notice to the parents regarding the recommendation to expel the
student, the specific charges against the student, a description of the rule or regulation broken, supporting
evidence, the date, time, and location of the Board hearing, a copy of the Board’s procedure, and a
description of the student’s and parents’ rights at the hearing.
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Students With Disabilities
Students with rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 may be suspended in the same manner as students without those rights or
expelled under certain circumstances, but prior to the imposition of either penalty, the District must
follow all procedural requirements of those Acts, including holding a manifestation determination
meeting when necessary, as required by these Acts.
DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIAL
School Materials
School publications distributed to students include: school newspapers, yearbooks, and literary
publications. All school publications are under the supervision of a teacher, sponsor, and the principal.
School officials have the discretion to edit or delete material which is inconsistent with the District’s
educational mission. School-sponsored groups are permitted to distribute materials directly to students
upon approval of the building Principal or Superintendent.
Non-School Materials
Written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual or
auditory materials may not contain material that is obscene, libelous, invasive of the privacy of others,
substantially disruptive to the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school
activities, or which advocates conduct inconsistent with the shared values of civilized social order are not
permitted. Outside groups, including governmental agencies, parent and student organizations not
sponsored by the school, and community organizations are permitted to display their materials on a
centrally-located bulletin board and/or table available for the displaying of these materials.
Any student who posts material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action. Prior
approval must be obtained before displaying these materials. Materials should be submitted to Activities
Office at least one week prior to the requested distribution and be stamped to show approval.
DRESS AND GROOMING
The student dress code supports equitable educational access and is written in a manner that does not reinforce
stereotypes, or increase marginalization or oppression of any group based on race, gender, ethnicity, religion,
sexual orientation, household income, gender identity or cultural observance.
Missoula County Public Schools expect that all students will dress in a way that is appropriate for the school
day or for any school sponsored event. Student dress choices should respect the school’s intent to sustain a
community that is inclusive of a diverse range of identities. The primary responsibility for a student’s attire
resides with the student and their parent(s) or guardian(s). Each MCPS High School is responsible for seeing
that student attire does not interfere with the health or safety of any student, and that student attire does not
contribute to a hostile or intimidating atmosphere for any student.
Minimum Expectations:
1. Shoes must be worn at all times.
2. All underwear and undergarments will not be visible. Undergarments must be covered when sitting,
standing, or bending. (visible waistbands and visible straps are allowed)
3. Clothing will not contain wording or graphics that advertise or promote illegal activities, are sexually
explicit, or that contain obscenity or profanity.
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The dress code guidelines shall apply to regular school days and summer school days, as well as any school-
related events and activities, such as graduation ceremonies, dances, and prom. Student athletic apparel will be
defined by safety and competitive performance standards.
DUAL CREDIT COURSES / COLLEGE COURSEWORK
Check with grade level counselors about dual credit, college coursework, and other advanced academic
opportunities.
EPINEPHRINE AUTO-INJECTORS IN SCHOOLS
Each district school may maintain a stock supply of auto-injectable epinephrine to be administered
immediately for actual or perceived anaphylaxis ( life threatening allergic reaction) in any student by a
school nurse or other authorized personnel in accordance with Montana law (MCA § 20-5-421) and
Board Policy 3416. Emergency Medical Services (911/EMS) will be called immediately. The parent will
be notified following all administration of epinephrine and EMS notification. The limited stock of this
medication is not intended to be used in place of medications previously or currently prescribed for
specific students or staff with known allergies. Students with known allergies are expected to continue to
provide their own health care provider ordered medications and written individual annual anaphylaxis
plan.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONS
Student participation in student government, clubs, performing or competitive activities, and athletics is
governed by the regulations developed and administered by the Montana High School Association and the
Missoula County Public School District. The Athletic Code of Conduct is a commitment to represent
self, school, family and the community in the most positive manner at all times. The code of conduct is in
effect for the entire school year and all subsequent high school years, to include fall athletic practice in
August and any school-sponsored events, regardless of the time of year.
I. Academic, Residence, and Behavioral Requirements and Responsibilities
MCPS Academic Requirements: These academic requirements apply to athletics, MHSA sponsored
chorus, band, and orchestra festivals or competitions, competitive speech, and cheerleading. Students may
not participate in spring tryouts (i.e., cheerleading) if they are ineligible.
A. Effective August, 2010, all students participating in a school sanctioned sport or activity will be
required to achieve a minimum cumulative grade point of 2.0. No student athlete or activities
participant may have an “F” in any subject during a grade reporting period: i.e., mid-quarter, quarter,
or semester. An athletic or activities participant who received an “F”, or whose grade point is below
2.0 will be ineligible for the following 10 school days during which time the grade will be reviewed
by a weekly grade check. A weekly grade check will be needed until the next grading period. If the
“F” is raised and the GPA is at least 2.0, the participant will regain eligibility. If the quarter/semester
grade remains the same after 10 school days, then the participant will remain ineligible for that grade-
reporting period. During the period of ineligibility, the participant may practice. For students with an
IEP or 504 Plan, building administration and Special Education Teacher/504 coordinator will confirm
that all accommodations have been fully implemented. All classes a participant is enrolled in and for
which he or she receives credit shall count in the determination of athletic eligibility. Credit
deficiencies may not be made up in any manner except regularly scheduled classes during the two
regular school semesters. Summer school, correspondence courses, night courses, etc., may not be
used to regain eligibility.
1. The purpose of these requirements is to insure the student is progressing toward graduation.
Graduation is based on the earning of a set number of credits rather than the achievement of a
specific grade point.
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2. Students who are academically ineligible may not compete at any level (varsity, junior
varsity, sophomore, or freshman).
3. Transfer students who come from a school with MHSA academic requirements, will be eligible
at MCPS if they were eligible at the previous school, but only for the first semester of attendance.
They will be subject to MCPS eligibility standards the next semester.
4. Seniors must be in at least five academic classes and meet the above academic eligibility
requirements in order to participate second semester.
II. Residence and age eligibility requirements:
A. Residence eligibility rules are established by the MHSA and apply to MHSA sanctioned activities
only. Basically students must live, with their parents, in the school attendance area of the school
for which they compete.
1. If a student moves from the attendance area of one MCPS school into the attendance area of
another MCPS school (within the city) he/she may choose to remain at the original school or
enroll in the new school. Eligibility will remain intact as long as the move is valid (with the
parents). In-district transfers not involving a parent move to the new attendance area must be
approved by the Superintendent. Students must also adhere to the Transfer Rule as imposed by
the Montana High School Association.
2. A student who is ineligible due to the transfer rule may compete on the JV, sophomore, or
freshman level but not varsity.
3. All questions concerning residence eligibility should be directed to the building Principal
and/or Activities Director.
B. Age eligibility rules are established by the MHSA. Students are not eligible for MHSA events if
they turn 19 before midnight of August 31 previous to the school year participation.
C. A student attending a nonpublic school or home school that meets the requirements under
MCA § 20-5-109 may participate in extracurricular activities offered by Missoula County
Public School District subject to the student’s eligibility as set out in the Student
Activities Handbook. The student’s academic eligibility must be verified by the head
administrator of the nonpublic school or educator providing the student instruction in the
home school as verified by the principal.
III. MCPS Student Responsibilities:
Activity Attendance
1. The primary focus for student enrollment is educational. MCPS distinguishes absences as:
a. Unexcused: no valid reason given for non-attendance
b. Excused: parent or guardian has excused the student for a known reason
c. Exempt: absence is due to a legal, medical/dental, bereavement or school sponsored reason.
These absences can be documented.
2. MCPS counts absences in the first two categories toward the district attendance policy.
3. For activity participation, either in practice or competition, a student needs to be in class every
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scheduled period of the school day or have given documentation for an exempt absence to the
attendance clerk or an administrator for that day. Students missing class due to unexcused or
excused absences are ineligible on the day of absence for practice or competition.
4. Students missing classes for school activity events will be “school related absent”. This does not
provide students with any additional makeup time for work missed. This same type of absence
may be provided to non-school community or club groups when their activity is consistent with
the MCPS activities programs. Such include but are not limited to; Missoula Youth Hockey,
Rodeo Club, Alpine skiing, etc.
Discipline
A. Students participating in school activities will be expected to conduct themselves appropriately at
sports and activities related functions. They must keep in mind that they are representing their
parents, school, and community when participating in activities. Students are expected to act in a
mature, responsible manner and exhibit sportsmanship and respect for others at all times. They
must adhere to the school’s “Code of Conduct.”
B. All students participating in school activities are subject to the MCPS Code of Conduct. Students
and parents should review the code and be familiar with the MCPS Alcohol and Drug Policy.
C. Students involved in activities will be disciplined when necessary. Everyone involved will be
treated firmly, consistently, and fairly according to the situation.
Citizenship Policy:
The Board of Directors of the Missoula County Public Schools offers a variety of voluntary activities
designed to enhance the classroom education of its students. Students who participate and observe in
extracurricular activities and school sponsored events serve as ambassadors of the school district
throughout the calendar year, whether away from or at school. Students who wish to exercise this
privilege of participating and spectating in extracurricular activities and school sponsored events must
conduct themselves in accordance with the board policy and must refrain from activities that are illegal,
immoral, unhealthy, or highly inappropriate. Participation in these activities is a privilege, conditioned
upon meeting the eligibility criteria established by the board, administration, and individual activity
coaches and sponsors. The activities director shall keep records of violations of the Citizenship Policy.
Alcohol and Drug Policy:
A. The policy shall be enforced during the school year when a student (regardless of age) is enrolled
at MCPS for school-sponsored activities, including summer activities.
B. Any student involved in an extra-curricular, performing or competitive activity or athletic
program shall not knowingly purchase, possess, use, transmit, or be under the influence of
alcohol, tobacco, performance enhancing drugs, or controlled substances of any kind during a
school year, regardless of the student’s age. A student who finds himself or herself in jeopardy
because of a substance abuse problem should receive professional assistance at family expense.
C. Any student knowingly finds himself/herself in the company of persons who illegally possess,
use, transmit, or are under the influence of alcohol, performance enhancing drugs, or controlled
substance (i.e., frequenting of areas, places, or sites where drugs and/or alcohol are present), is
expected to leave within a reasonable period of time. Failure to do so will result in discipline as if
they were in violation of this policy.
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D. The policy will apply to any student engaging in inappropriate or offensive conduct or any act that
would be grounds for arrest or citation in the criminal or juvenile court system, excluding minor
traffic offenses, regardless of whether the student was cited, arrested, convicted, or adjudicated for
the act(s).
E. Student Transfers. A student who transfers from one Missoula County Public School to another
or from another district will maintain his/her accumulative offense status regarding the alcohol
and drug policy.
Alcohol and Drug Policy Violations: Third offense in a student’s high school career: Full
suspension from all extra-curricular activity for one calendar year.
• First offense in a student’s high school career: The student shall be suspended from competing or performing in any
school-sanctioned activity for one year. Days counted include 12 calendar months beginning the date the student is
notified of suspension.
• Second offense in a student’s high school career: The student shall be suspended from competing or performing in any
school-sanctioned activity for one year. Days counted include 12 calendar months beginning the date the student is
notified of suspension.
• Reduction of suspension times: A student can reduce the suspension time for first and second offenses by registering
for an approved education course and providing documentation from the approved program that he/she will participate
in the course. Student will be required to submit evidence of course completion and shall continue to attend
practices/participate in the activity during the period of suspension if approved by the Activity Leader. First and
second offenses can be reduced further if a student self-reports to the Activity Director or designee within 48 hours of
the incident and completes the approved education course. First offenses are reduced to 30 days with the approved
education course or 20 days with self-report and the course. Second offenses are reduced to 60 days with the approved
education course or 50 days with self-report and the course.
Any penalties imposed under this Activities Code of Conduct may be carried from season to season if the
student has not completed the requirements for the violation during the season. For example, if a student
is found to have engaged in a first violation of the Alcohol, Drugs and Tobacco Rules when only two
weeks of an activity season remain, the penalties shall carry over into the next activity season in which
the student participates.
VIOLATIONS ARE CUMULATIVE DURING A STUDENT’S FOUR YEARS IN HIGH
SCHOOL.
PARENT/GUARDIAN CODE OF CONDUCT:
The essential elements of character building and ethics in athletics are embodied in the concept of
sportsmanship and six core principles: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and good
citizenship. The highest potential of athletics is achieved when competition reflects these "six pillars of
character."
1. I will refrain from coaching my child or other players during games and practices.
2. I will respect the officials and their authority during games and will never question, discuss or confront
coaches at the game field, and will take time to speak to coaches at an agreed upon time and place.
3. I will remember that student athletes participate to have fun and that the game is for youth, not adults.
4. I will teach my child that doing one's best is more important than winning, so that my child will never
feel defeated by the outcome of a game or his or her performance.
5. I will demand that my child treat other players, coaches, officials, and spectators with respect
regardless of race, creed, color, sex or ability.
6. I will promote the emotional and physical well-being of the student athletes ahead of any personal
desire I may have for my own child to win.
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7. I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and well-being of the
student athletes.
8. I (and my guest) will be a positive role model for my child and encourage sportsmanship by showing
respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players' coaches, officials, and
spectators at every game, practice or sporting event.
9. I (and my guest) will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach,
player, or parent such as booing and taunting; refusing to shake hands; or using profane language or
gestures.
10. I understand that any violation of this code of conduct will be cause for dismissal, suspension, or
permanent expulsion from future athletic contest.
Please note: Student clubs and performing groups such as the band, choir, and drill and athletic teams
may establish standards of behavior — including consequences for misbehavior — that are stricter than
those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified
by the administrator will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization.
FAMILIES IN TRANSITION (FIT) PROGRAM
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act affords eligible students the rights to immediate
enrollment, transportation/busing, automatic enrollment in the free/reduced lunch program, automatic
enrollment in Title I services (regardless if in a Title I school), all school-based services of which they
qualify, participate in all programs and activities offered to students and families and challenge
enrollment/school-choice decisions.
MCPS McKinney-Vento Program
Missoula County Public Schools employs a Families-in-Transition (FIT) liaison to advocate for families
and to assist them in coordinating academic support for their students. The FIT liaison works closely with
Family Resource Center or FIT coordinators at each building in the district to assure eligible families
receive needed support. The FIT liaison assists families with immediate school enrollment for eligible
students (regardless if missing immunization or academic records), arranges for busing or transportation
assistance, and refers students for Title I services for those in grades K-8.
For more information or assistance with determining eligibility, contact the MCPS FIT Liaison at the
Administration Building, 215 South Sixth Street West, Missoula, MT 5980l, 406-728-2400 ext. 1080
Eligibility for FIT Services According to the McKinney-Vento Act
The term “homeless children and youth” refers to individuals who lack a fixed, regular and adequate
nighttime residence. Under the law, a child may qualify as homeless if he or she is:
• Living in an emergency shelter, domestic violence shelter, or transitional housing. Examples in
Missoula might include: Carole Graham, Mountain Home Montana, YWCA Gateway Program,
YWCA Pathways Shelter, Family Promise, Missoula Youth Homes, etc.;
• Living in a motel, hotel, trailer park, or campground due to economic hardship;
• Abandoned in a hospital;
• Awaiting foster care placement;
• Living in a car, park, public place, bus or train station, abandoned building, or other structure not
meant for housing;
• Doubled-up with relatives or friends due to a loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar
reason;
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• NOT living with a parent or legal guardian; is an unaccompanied youth living in a situation that
meets one of the definitions listed above or due to extreme conflict, unsafe or unsupportive living
conditions.
Family Resource Center of Families in Transition Coordinator
A Family Resource Center or Families in Transition Coordinator is available in each MCPS building.
FRC/FIT coordinators are available specifically to serve families seeking help with life’s transitions,
challenges and changes. The coordinators assist with accessing resources and services, to include:
• McKinney-Vento services for families and youths experiencing homelessness (as defined by the
McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act);
• Additional academic supports;
• Housing and employment – options and information;
• Clothing, food and toiletries – supplies and resources;
• Information, referrals and paperwork assistance;
• Connections to community supports and programs; and
• Crisis/personal support.
To learn more about the services available to families and youths experiencing transitions due to
economic hardship, talk to your building FRC/FIT coordinator, secretary, teacher or principal.
FEES
Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state and local funds and are at
no charge to a student. A student, however, is expected to provide his or her own pencils, paper, erasers,
and notebooks and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including:
Costs for materials for a class project that the student will keep.
Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to extracurricular
activities
Personal physical education and athletic equipment and apparel.
Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc.
Voluntarily purchased student accident insurance.
Musical instrument rental and uniform maintenance, when uniforms are provided by the District.
Personal apparel used in extracurricular activities that becomes the property of the student.
Student replacement identification cards.
Fees for lost, damaged, or overdue library books or textbooks
Fees for driver training courses, if offered.
Fees for optional courses offered for credit that requires use of facilities not available on District
premises.
Summer school courses that are offered tuition free during the regular school year.
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Any required fee or deposit may be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay. Application for
such a waiver may be made to the Activities Office.
FOOD SERVICES
The District participates in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program and offers students
nutritionally-balanced and appealing meals daily. Free and reduced-price meals are available based on
financial need. The District will make every effort to prevent the overt identification of students
participating in the free and reduced-price meals by utilizing electronic identification and payment
systems. Applications are available in the main office or online at the district web site.
Students:
Breakfast--$ 2.00
Lunch--$ 3.00
Adults:
Breakfast--$ 2.75
Lunch--$ 3.75
FUNDRAISING
Student clubs or classes, outside organizations, and/or parent groups occasionally may be permitted to
conduct fund-raising drives for approved school purposes. An application for permission must be made
to the principal before the event.
Please refer to MCPS Policy 3530 for additional information.
GRADE CLASSIFICATION
After the ninth grade, students are classified according to the number of credits earned toward graduation.
Promotion to the next grade level is based on successful completion of the coursework, attendance,
performance based on standardized testing, or other testing administered.
Credits Earned Grade Placement
6 credits 10
th
grade, sophomore
12 credits 11
th
grade, junior
18 credits 12
th
grade, senior
GRADING GUIDELINES
Letter Grades--Students' grade are alphabetically designated (i.e., A, B, C, D, F).
Grade point averages will be computed on a 4-point scale as follows:
• A--4.0 points
• B--3.0 points
• C--2.0 points
• D--1.0 points
• F--0.0 points
"I" is used as an incomplete and the students are given a specific length of time by the teachers to complete
the work in the course. Incompletes not made up are recorded as failures (F).
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GRADUATION
Requirements for a Diploma
A student in one of Missoula County Public High Schools enrolled for credit prior to the end of the senior
year may receive a diploma and participate in the graduation ceremony if he/she passes required courses,
pays all fines, and meets school and state requirements. 24 total credits are required for graduation.
Subject
MCPS Graduation
Requirements (Class
of 2017 & beyond)
Montana University
Admission
College of Technology
Admission
English
4 credits
4 credits
4 credits
Math
3 credits
3 credits (Algebra 1,
Geometry, Algebra 2)
2 credits
HPE
2 credits
2 credits
2 credits
Science
2 credits (Earth & Space
Science, Biology)
2 credits
2 credits
Social Studies
2.5 credits (1 US History;
1 US Government)
3 credits (1 of global
studies)
2.5 credits (no global
studies requirement)
Fine Arts
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
Practical Arts
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
Other Electives
8.5 credits
As required for HS
graduation
As required for HS
graduation
Foreign
Language
Not required
Not required (2 years
recommended)
Not required
A student with a disabling condition will satisfy those competency requirements incorporated into the
individualized education program (IEP). Satisfactory completion of the objectives incorporated in the
IEP will serve as the basis for determining completion of a course.
Graduation requirements will not generally be waived; however, in rare and unique circumstances, a
recommendations may be made to approve a minor deviation from the graduation requirements.
A student who has an experienced educational disruption will be entitled to graduate with a diploma if the
student has met the minimum credit requirements established by the Board of Public Education. The
District may distinguish the diploma in a reasonable manner from other diplomas issued. The Board of
Trustees may enroll a student who is not yet 19 years and was awarded a diploma due to educational
disruption and who seeks access to reasonable curriculum designed to advance postsecondary success.
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HEALTH SCREENINGS
Hearing screening is done for kindergarten, 1
st
and 9
th
grade students and vision screening is done for Pre-
school through 5
th
grade students. Parents are notified if there are concerns. Screenings are not meant to
take the place of professional exams.
HEALTH SERVICES
First aid for injuries and illness response is provided by school staff and if present and available, a school
nurse. It may be necessary for the school to contact emergency services or to send a child home due to
illness or injury. It is VERY important that the school have current emergency names and phone contacts.
Parents and guardians should complete a new health history form whenever there are significant health
changes in your child such as a new life threatening allergy. Ask the school secretary or school nurse for
this and any other health related forms, procedures or information or see the district website under the
student services then health services tab.
HOMEWORK
Homework is a constructive tool in the teaching/learning process when geared to the needs and abilities of
students. Purposeful assignments not only enhance student achievement, but also develop self-discipline
and associated good working habits.
Teachers may give homework to students to aid in the student’s educational development. Homework
should be an application or adaptation of a classroom experience, and should not be assigned for
disciplinary purposes.
IMMUNIZATIONS
A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or
statement that, for medical or religious reasons, the student will not be immunized. The
immunizations required are: diphtheria, pertussis, rubeola (measles), rubella, mumps,
poliomyelitis, varicella and tetanus. Haemophilus influenza type B is required for students under
age five (5). Except for those vaccinations required by law, the District will not discriminate
against a student by denying or withholding educational opportunities based upon the student’s
vaccination status.
A student who transfers into the District may photocopy immunization records in the possession
of the school of origin. The District will accept the photocopy as evidence of the immunization.
Within thirty (30) days after a transferring student ceases attendance at the school of origin, the
District must receive the original immunization records for the student who transfers into the
District.
If a student’s religious beliefs conflict with the requirement that the student be immunized, the
student must present a notarized form signed by the student (or by the parent, if the student is a
minor) stating that immunization conflicts with the religious tenets and practices of the parents
and student. This certificate will be maintained as part of the student’s immunization records.
If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a
certificate signed by a health care provider who is licensed, certified, or otherwise authorized by
the laws of any state or Canada to provide health care under Montana law, is authorized within
the provider’s scope of practice to administer immunizations to which the exemption applies, and
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has previously provided health care to the student seeking the exemption or has administered an
immunization to which the student has had an adverse reaction. This certificate must indicate the
specific nature and probable duration of the medical condition or circumstances which
contraindicate immunization. This certificate will be maintained as part of the student’s
immunization records. For further information, see MCPS Policy 3413.
LAW ENFORCEMENT
Questioning of Students
Law enforcement or social service works must contact students through the administrative office.
Students will not usually be questioned or interviewed by law enforcement or other lawful authorities
while at school. When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities, however, wish to question or
interview a student at school or the principal requests that the student be interviewed at school:
The principal shall verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority.
If the interview is not at the request of the principal, the principal shall ascertain the authority of law
enforcement to question or interview the student at the school. If the interview is by court order or
other exigencies exist (concern about loss/damage of evidence, flight from jurisdiction, or health,
safety, or welfare of the student or other students or staff), the principal has the discretion to allow
the interview to take place. Otherwise, if law enforcement can reasonably interview the student at a
time when the student is not in school, the principal may, absent a court order, deny the request for
an immediate interview of a student.
The principal will make reasonable efforts to notify parents unless the officer produces a court order
prohibiting the notification of the parents.
In the event that a parent cannot be present or cannot be reached, the principal will observe the
interview.
Law enforcement must comply with all legal requirements regarding notification of parents and
consent prior to interviewing students.
Social service workers may be permitted to interview students at a school consistent with Montana
law. The principal or designee will observe the meeting if the social service worker declines to
notify the parents.
Students Taken into Custody
State law requires the District to permit a student to be taken into legal custody by a law enforcement
officer or probation officer to comply with a lawful court order, a warrant for arrest, or a law enforcement
determination that probable cause exists for the arrest. To the extent practicable, the arrest should be
conducted out of the view of other students in the administration offices. A social service worker may
take custody of a student with a lawful court order or under the powers of MCA § 41-3-301.
The principal will immediately notify the Superintendent and will make reasonable attempts to notify a
parent unless the officer or official produces a court order prohibiting the notification of the parents.
Because the principal does not have the authority to prevent or delay a custody action, notification will
most likely be after the fact.
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Service of Process
At times, law enforcement may seek to serve a student with a subpoena or other legal documents (i.e.,
complaint, summons). Absent a court order, the principal has the discretion to determine whether service
at school is disruptive to the educational environment. If service is directed by a court or is not disruptive
to the educational environment, the principal will make reasonable attempts to contact the parents
regarding the service. Where the principal has determined that service would be disruptive to the
educational environment, the principal will make a reasonable attempt to coordinate with law
enforcement to serve the student when school is not in session. Service on a student will be accomplished
out of the view of other students in the administration offices.
MEDICINE AT SCHOOL
Most student medication can be taken at home either before or after school. Only those medications that
your child must have while at school are permitted. “Medications” include prescription, over the counter
and homeopathic or alternative medications such as vitamins. For the safety of all students, students are
not allowed to carry any medication unless permitted by law (allergy and asthma medications) or by an
accommodation plan. Parents or guardians must bring all other medications to the school office or health
office in a pharmacy or manufacturer labeled container. All medications must have annual written parent
permission and health care provider signature on file. Unused medication is discarded at the end of the
school year. Related medication information and forms may be found on the district website under the
student services then health services tab.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND RIGHTS
The District believes that the best educational result for each student occurs when all three partners are
doing their best: the District staff, the student’s parent, and the student. Such a partnership requires trust
and much communication between home and school. To strengthen this partnership, every parent is urged
to:
Encourage his or her child to put a high priority on education and commit to making the most of the
educational opportunities the school provides.
Review the information in the student handbook with his or her child and sign and return the
acknowledgment form(s) and the directory information notice.
Become familiar with all of the child’s school activities and with the academic programs, including
special programs, offered in the District. Discuss with the counselor or principal any questions, such
as concerns about placement, assignment, or early graduation, and the options available to the child.
Monitor the child’s academic progress and contact teachers as needed. Parents have the right to
review their child’s education records upon request.
Attend scheduled conferences and request additional conferences as needed. To schedule a telephone
or in-person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the school office for an
appointment. A teacher will usually arrange to return the call or meet with the parent during his or
her conference period or at a mutually convenient time before or after school.
Become a school volunteer.
Participate in campus parent organizations. Parents have the opportunity to support and be involved in
various school activities, either as leaders or in supporting roles.
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PROTECTION OF STUDENT RIGHTS
Surveys
Parents have the right to inspect any survey or evaluation and refuse to allow their child to participate in
such survey or evaluation.
Instructional Materials
Parents have the right to inspect instructional materials used as a part of their child’s educational
curriculum, within a reasonable time. This does not include academic tests or assessments.
Collection of Personal Information from Students for Marketing
The District will not administer or distribute to students any survey or other instrument for the purposes
of collecting or compiling personal information for marketing or selling such information, with the
exception of the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected for the exclusive purpose
of developing, evaluating, or providing educational products/services for, or to, students or educational
institutions.
Pursuant to federal law, the District will not request, nor disclose, the identity of a student who completes
any survey or evaluation (created by any person or entity, including the District) containing one or more
of the following:
Political affiliations.
Mental and psychological problems
Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, and demeaning behavior.
Criticism of other individuals with whom the student or the student’s family has a close family
relationship.
Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and ministers.
Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of students or the student’s parent/guardian.
Income, except when the information will be used to determine the student’s eligibility to participate
in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.
RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL
A student will not be released from school at times other than at the end of the school day except with
permission from the principal or designee and according to the building sign-out procedures. Unless the
principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be
released before the end of the instructional day.
A student who will need to leave school during the day must have permission from his or her parent
that morning. Parents/guardians should notify the attendance office at least an hour in advance to
excuse the student. The student must check out at the attendance office before leaving school
grounds. A student who becomes ill during the school day should, with the teacher’s permission, report
to the office or school nurse. The administrator or nurse will decide whether or not the student should be
sent home and will notify the student’s parent. When in doubt as to custodial rights, the District will rely
on the most recent information available in the student’s records. A student will only be released with
prior written permission from the custodial parent to a previously unauthorized adult unless an emergency
situation justifies a waiver.
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RELIGIOUS PRACTICES
Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner
that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. Students may also pray in groups and
discuss their religious views with other students as long as they are not disruptive or coercive. The school
will not require, encourage, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation
during any school activity. Student prayer, even if nonsectarian or non-proselytizing, will not be
broadcast over the school public address system.
Students may study religions ancillary to the studies of human history and development and various
national, cultural, and ethnic groups. This study will give neither preferential nor derogatory treatment to
any religion or religious belief. The inclusion of religious music, symbols, art, or writings in school
programs or performances may occur where the religious content has a historical and/or independent
educational purpose consistent with the approved curriculum. For additional information, please see
MCPS Policy 2460.
REPORT CARDS, PROGRESS REPORTS, AND CONFERENCES
Written reports of absences and student grades or performance in each class or subject are issued to
parents at the end of each semester. At other times written reports may be obtained by contacting the
records clerk. Grades, attendance and discipline records are available electronically at every report period
through Q Parent Connect or Student Connect. Please contact the school records clerk to sign up for this
valuable resource.
SAFETY
Accident Prevention
Student safety on campus and at school-related events is a high priority of the District. Although the
District has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensure school
safety. A student should:
Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk.
Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook, as well as any additional rules for behavior and
safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers.
Remain alert to and promptly report safety hazards, such as intruders on campus.
Know emergency evacuation routes and signals.
Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other District employees who are
overseeing the welfare of students.
Emergency Medical Treatment and Information
If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be
reached, the school will need to have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment and
information about allergies to medications, etc. Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an
emergency care consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information up to date (name of
doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies, etc.). Please contact the office to update any information.
Drills: Fire, Tornado, and Other Emergencies
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From time to time, students, teachers, and other District employees will participate in drills of emergency
procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the direction of teachers or others in
charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner.
SCHOOL CLOSURE
Severe Weather or Other Emergency Notifications
Missoula County Public Schools will notify students and parents as early as possible if severe weather or
other emergency circumstances require that:
• Schools delay their starting time OR
• Schools are closed and cancelled for the day.
School District officials work closely with the bus company and city/county transportation officials to
monitor the condition of local roads and highways during severe weather or when other circumstances
arise.
The District will use the Connect5 communications system to notify student and staff households by
telephone and/or e-mail should school be cancelled or delayed. A recorded phone message and email
(assuming there is an email address for the household provided to the district for communications) will be
generated to each household as early as 6:15 a.m.
In addition, notifications will be made to:
• Visit the District's website.
• Tune into one of these media outlets:
Missoulian
KGVO (1290 AM)
KYSS (94.9 FM)
KGGL (FM 93.3)
KZOQ (FM 100.1)
KXDR (98.7 FM)
KMSO (FM 102.5)
KECI (local NBC Television Affiliate)
KPAX (local CBS Television Affiliate)
KTMF (local ABC Television Affiliate)
If you hear that school buses are delayed or that school is starting late due to severe weather, keep your
child(ren) at home and supervised until either buses arrive or until the publicized time that school begins.
Remember, teachers and other staff may also have difficulty getting to school and may not be available to
supervise students.
Parent Cooperation during an Emergency
Missoula County Public Schools’ personnel are prepared and practice regularly for a variety of
emergencies in the schools. If you, as a parent, hear of an emergency, please check the district’s website
or local radio/television media. The district will keep local media informed if there is an emergency. The
District’s website will also be used to post information as it becomes available. Please do not telephone
the school or travel directly to the school. Phone lines may be needed to respond to the emergency. In
addition, emergency vehicles and first-response workers must be able to get to the school. If your child
must be evacuated during school hours, your child will be taken to and cared for at a safe location. If you
have specific concerns about emergency procedures, stop by and visit with your student’s teacher or the
school principal.
S
EARCHES AND SEIZURES
In the interest of promoting student safety and attempting to ensure that schools are safe and drug free,
District officials may from time to time conduct searches. Such searches are conducted without a warrant
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and as permitted by law. Searches may include the use of canines.
Students’ Personal Effects
School officials may search a student and/or the student’s personal effects (e.g., purses, backpacks, coats,
etc.) when there is reasonable suspicion that the search will produce evidence that the student has violated
or is violating the law or the District’s rules. The search must be conducted in a manner which is
reasonably related to its objectives and not excessively intrusive in light of the age and sex of the student
and the nature of the infraction.
Students’ Desks and Lockers
Students’ desks and lockers are school property and remain under the control and jurisdiction of the
school even when assigned to an individual student.
Students are fully responsible for the security and contents of the assigned desks and lockers. Students
must be certain that the locker is locked, and that the combination is not available to others. School
officials may cut locks in order to conduct a search.
Searches of desks or lockers may be conducted at any time there is reasonable cause to believe that they
contain articles or materials prohibited by District policy, whether or not a student is present. Searches
may also be conducted at random, in accordance with law and District policy. See MCPS Policy 3231.
The parent will be notified if any prohibited items are found in the student’s desk or locker.
Vehicles on Campus
Vehicles parked on school property are under the jurisdiction of the school. School officials may search
any vehicle any time there is reasonable cause to do so, with or without the presence of the student. A
student has full responsibility for the security of his or her vehicle and must make certain that it is locked
and that the keys are not given to others.
Seizure of Property
Evidence produced by a search that reveals that a student has violated or is violating the law or District
rules may be seized and impounded by school officials. When appropriate, such evidence may be
transferred to law enforcement authorities.
Evidence produced by a search may be used in a disciplinary proceeding against the student.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT / SEXUAL DISCRIMINATION
The District encourages parental and student support in its efforts to address and prevent sexual
harassment and sexual discrimination in the public schools. Students and/or parents are encouraged to
discuss their questions or concerns about the expectations in this area with a teacher, counselor, principal,
or building Title IX coordinator for students.
Students must not engage in unwanted and unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature
directed toward another student or a District employee. This prohibition applies whether the conduct is by
word, gesture, or any other sexual conduct, including requests for sexual favors. All students are expected
to treat other students and District employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid any behaviors known to
be offensive; and to stop these behaviors when asked or told to stop.
A substantiated complaint against a student will result in appropriate disciplinary action, according to the
nature of the offense.
The District will notify the parents of all students involved in sexual harassment by student(s) when the
allegations are not minor, and will notify parents of any incident of sexual harassment or sexual
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discrimination by an employee. To the greatest extent possible, complaints will be treated as confidential.
Limited disclosure may be necessary to complete a thorough investigation.
A complaint alleging sexual harassment by another student or sexual harassment or sexual discrimination
by a staff member may be presented by a student and/or parent in a conference with the principal or with
the Title IX coordinator. The parent or other advisor may accompany the student throughout the
complaint process. The first conference with the student ordinarily will be held by a person of the same
gender as the student. The conference will be scheduled and held as soon as possible. The principal or
Title IX coordinator will conduct an appropriate investigation. The student will not be required to present
a complaint to a person who is the subject of the complaint.
Complaints may be submitted via the District’s Uniform Grievance Policy. Please refer to MCPS Policy
1700 for additional information regarding the filing of a complaint and the District’s prohibition against
discrimination and harassment.
STUDENT OFFICES AND ELECTIONS
Student elections take place in the spring of the previous year. Freshmen elections take place at the
beginning of the school year. Contact the activities director in the front office for more information.
STUDENT RECORDS
Access by Parents and Student: A student’s school records are confidential and are protected from
unauthorized inspection or use pursuant to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. The District
maintains two sets of records: a permanent record and a cumulative record.
By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a student who
is under 18 years of age. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the
records, if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights.
The building principal will be responsible for maintenance, retention, or destruction of a student’s
permanent or cumulative records, in accordance with District procedure established by the
Superintendent. The principal will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of
the records. Access to records will be granted within 15 days of receipt of a written request. If
circumstances prevent a parent or eligible student from inspecting the records, the District will either
provide a copy of the requested records or make other arrangements for the parent or student to review the
requested records.
Parents of a minor, the student (if 18 years of age or older), and school officials with legitimate
educational interests are persons who may regularly access a student’s records. “School officials with
legitimate educational interests” include any employees, agents, or Trustees of the District; cooperatives
of which the District is a member; or facilities with which the District contracts for the placement of
students with disabilities, as well as their attorneys and consultants, who are:
Working with the student;
Considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, an individual education plan
(IEP) for a student with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or an
individually designed program for a student with disabilities under Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973;
Compiling statistical data; or
Investigating or evaluating programs.
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The parent’s or student’s right of access to, and copies of, student records does not extend to all records.
Materials that are not considered educational records, such as teachers’ personal notes on a student that
are shared only with a substitute teacher, records pertaining to former students of the District, and records
maintained by school law enforcement officials for purposes other than school discipline do not have to
be made available to the parents or student. Access will also not be granted to the parent or the student to
confidential letters and recommendations concerning admission to a post-secondary educational
institution, applications for employment, or receipt of an honor or award, if the student has waived his or
her right of access after being advised of his or her right to obtain the names of all persons making such
confidential letters or statements.
Students and Parents are encourage to access grade, schedule, discipline and attendance information using
the Parent Connect and Student Connect components of the district’s school management software
Infinite Campus. You can access Infinite Campus Parent Portal or Student Portal by visiting the MCPS
website. If you do not have user ID or password information please contact the school’s record’s clerk.
Access by Other Individuals and Entities
Certain officials from various governmental agencies may have limited access to the records without prior
consent by the parents or student (over 18 years of age). Disclosure to these governmental agencies may
be done under some of the following circumstances:
The District may grant access to or release information from student records to employees or officials
of the District or the Montana State Board of Education, provided a current, legitimate educational
interest is shown.
The District may grant access to or release information from student records without parental consent
or notification to any person, for the purpose of research, statistical reporting, or planning, provided
that no student or parent can be identified from the information released, and the person to whom the
information is released signs an affidavit agreeing to comply with all applicable statutes and rules
pertaining to school student records.
The District will grant access to or release information from any student record as specifically
required by federal or state statute.
The District may release student records or information in connection with an emergency, without
parental consent, if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of
the student or other persons. The Superintendent or Principal will make this decision, taking into
consideration the nature of the emergency, the seriousness of the threat to the health and safety of the
student or other persons, the need for such records to meet the emergency, and whether the persons to
whom such records are released are in a position to deal with the emergency.
The District may disclose student records or information to the youth court and law enforcement
authorities, pertaining to violations of the Montana Youth Court Act or criminal laws by the student.
The District will comply with an ex parte order requiring it to permit the U.S. Attorney General or
designee to have access to a student’s school records without notice to or consent of the student’s
parent.
The District forwards a student’s records on request and without prior parental consent to a school in
which a student seeks or intends to enroll. Records are also released in accordance with court order or
lawfully issued subpoena. Unless the subpoena is issued for law enforcement purposes and the subpoena
orders that its contents, existence, or the information sought not be disclosed, the District will make a
reasonable effort to notify the parent or eligible student in advance of compliance.
Parental consent is required to release the records in most circumstances. When the student reaches 18
years of age, only the student has the right to consent to release of records.
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The District charges a nominal fee for copying records; however, no parent or student will be precluded
from copying information because of financial hardship. An access log will also be maintained for each
record which details those individuals accessing the records and their legitimate interest in the records.
Challenging Content of Records
Students over 18 years of age, and parents of minor students may inspect the student’s records and request
a correction if the records are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or
other rights. If the District refuses the request to amend the records, the requestor has the right to ask for a
hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the requestor has 30 school days to
exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student’s record. Although
improperly recorded grades may be challenged, parents and the student are not allowed to contest a
student’s grade in a course or references to expulsions and out-of-school suspensions through this
process.
Directory Information
Certain information about district students is considered directory information and will be released to
anyone, including military recruiters and/or post-secondary institutions, who follows procedures for
requesting it, unless the parent objects to the release of any or all directory information about the child.
The opportunity to exercise such an objection was provided on the form signed by the parent to
acknowledge receipt of this handbook. Should circumstances change, the parent can contact the principal
to indicate his or her desire to change the original request.
Directory information includes: a student’s name, address, telephone number, electronic mail address,
date of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of
athletic teams, photographs, dates of attendance, and honors and awards received in school.
Maintenance of Records
Permanent records are maintained in perpetuity for every student who has enrolled in the District.
Cumulative records will be maintained for eight (8) years after the student graduates or permanently
leaves the District. Cumulative records which may be of continued assistance to a student with
disabilities, who graduates or permanently withdraws from the District, may, after five (5) years, be
transferred to the parents or to the student if the student has succeeded to the rights of the parents.
SUMMER SCHOOL
Summer school is not always available for students. Summer school options and credit recovery options
should be discussed with counselors. Each high school has a variety of opportunities for students to recover
or make up credit for on-time graduation.
TEXTBOOKS
Board-approved textbooks are provided free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be covered
by the student, as directed by the teacher, and treated with care. A student who is issued a damaged book
should report the damage to the teacher. Any student failing to return a book issued by the school or
damaging a book issued by the school may be charged to replace the book.
TRANSPORTATION
School Sponsored
Students who participate in school-sponsored trips are required to use transportation provided by the
school to and from the event. The principal, however, may make an exception if the parent personally that
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the student be permitted to ride with the parent, or the parent presents — before the scheduled trip — a
written request that the student be permitted to ride with an adult designated by the parent.
Buses and Other School Vehicles
The District makes school bus transportation available to all students living more than 3 miles from
school. This service is provided at no cost to students. Bus routes and any subsequent changes are posted
at the school. Further information may be obtained by calling Beach Transportation at 549-6121.
Students are expected to assist District staff in ensuring that buses remain in good condition and that
transportation is provided safely. When riding school buses, students are held to behavioral standards
established in this handbook. Students must:
Follow the driver’s directions at all times.
Enter and leave the bus in an orderly manner at the designated bus stop nearest home.
Keep feet, books, band instrument cases, and other objects out of the aisle.
Not deface the bus or its equipment.
Not put head, hands, arms, or legs out of the window, hold any object out of the window, or throw
objects within or out of the bus.
Wait for the driver’s signal upon leaving the bus and before crossing in front of the bus.
When students ride in a District van or passenger car, seat belts must be fastened at all times.
Misconduct will be punished and bus-riding privileges may be suspended.
VIDEO RECORDING OF STUDENTS
The District has the right to use video equipment on District property to ensure the health, welfare, and
safety of all staff, students, and visitors to District property, and to safeguard District facilities and
equipment. Video equipment may be used in locations as deemed appropriate by the Superintendent.
Students in violation of Board policies, administrative regulations, building rules, or law shall be subject
to appropriate disciplinary action. Others may be referred to law enforcement agencies.
Video recordings may become a part of a student’s educational record. The District shall comply with all
applicable state and federal laws related to record maintenance and retention. Signs will be posted at
various locations to inform students, staff, and members of the public that video surveillance cameras are
in use.
VISITORS
Parents and others are welcome to visit District schools. For the safety of those within the school, all
visitors must first report to the principal’s office. Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time
are permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher and so long as their duration or frequency
does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment.
VOLUNTEERING IN THE MCPS SCHOOLS
The district will focus on recruiting, training and placing more volunteers in service in its public schools
during the 2018-19 school year. Volunteers are needed for many positions, including library aides,
reading assistants, classroom helpers, writers & editors (i.e. school newsletter), field trip chaperones, and
mentors for student projects, job shadows or internships. Volunteers who perform tasks on a regular basis
are asked to register with the MCPS Volunteer Service office and if necessary, go through a name-based
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background check prior to working in the schools. This registration enables the District to record the
types of duties that volunteers perform, assist with training, and ensure that their experiences are
enjoyable and beneficial to students and teachers. Volunteers who work directly with students in a
location where an MCPS employee is not present to supervise the activity will need to go through a
name-based criminal background check. This requirement has been put in place to ensure the safety of
students who spend “unsupervised” time with volunteers. There are many opportunities for volunteers to
work in schools in “supervised” activities, however, so please do not let this requirement keep you from
supporting your local school! We need volunteers to share their talents and expertise with our students.
To register as a volunteer and complete a background check form, go online to the MCPS website. For
more information, please contact Brittany Gross, the district receptionist, at 728-2400, ext. 1030.
