WELCOMETO

PERRY-LECOMPTON HIGH SCHOOL

. . . A Place for Success . . .

 

Mission Statement

The mission of Perry-Lecompton High School is to establish, within a safe and caring environment, a strong foundation for lifelong learning and civic responsibility. 

Student Privacy Policy           

The superintendent, the board and staff shall protect the right of privacy of students and their families in connection with any surveys or physical examinations conducted, assisted or authorized by the board or administration.  The district shall provide parents notice of their rights under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment annually, at the beginning of each school year, and at any other time the school district policies in the area are substantially changed.

School Profile

With approximately 340 students, PLHS constitutes a distinct community. This community should be an orderly, cheerful, democratic place if it is to serve any good purpose. Whether it will be such a place depends upon its citizens . . . upon you and others involved in this school. There will be little need for rules and consequences if students will remember that they are citizens of this school community and have responsibilities as well as rights.

Being careful to observe a few simple guidelines and principles will make school pleasant for you and will make this school the friendly and productive place that we all want it to be.

1. Come to school regularly unless you have a legitimate excuse for being absent. (Consult the Attendance Policy.)
2. Establish personal goals that will challenge you to do your very best at everything you attempt.
3. Give due respect and consideration to all teachers, adults, students, and the property of others.
4. Be honest and play fair.
5. If you should have a difference with another person, ask for help from an adult before the conflict develops into a serious matter.
6. Don’t be afraid to ask for help before problems become overwhelming.

The number of rules and regulations imposed upon the citizenry of a community depends upon the responsibility that each person develops within himself. The fewer the restrictions from within the person, the more the restrictions will come from outside oneself. The less responsible the individual is as a school citizen, the more restrictions are imposed upon him or her by the school community.

 Order is fundamental to the functioning of any school. As a PLHS Kaw, you have a responsibility to uphold high standards of scholarship and citizenship. The major reputation of a school is the courtesy and consideration students show members of the faculty, guests of the school, and one another. Naturally, every person wishes to command the respect and admiration of others.

Important records a student establishes at Perry-Lecompton High School are records of scholastic achievement, extra-curricular participation, and attendance. These records become permanent and will be the basis for further education or employment. One should strive for outstanding records.

 The faculty, staff, and administration are happy to welcome all Perry- Lecompton High School students to a new school year. You are challenged to obtain a well-rounded education through academics, and by participating in school clubs, sports, social, and recreational programs.

 School Spirit ‑ What is it?

Although we cannot see or touch school spirit, it is the most powerful force in our school. It is the driving force that makes us strive toward excellence. It is in our teams as they work hard to win. It is in our staff, students and patrons as they support our school.

 It is the invisible yet warm, inner feeling we have when we stand in honor of our school during the playing of the school song, for example. School spirit is the one most valuable tradition inherited from students who have preceded you. Keep it with you and use with pride.

Building Hours

To avoid potential problems, add to security and provide adequate supervision, students are requested to report to the building no earlier than 7:15 a.m. and leave each afternoon by 3:45 p.m., unless they are under the direct supervision of a faculty member of the school district. Except for the East doors, all doors to the school will be locked from the outside at 8:15 a.m. Entry to the building after 8:15 a.m. for late arrivals and visitors is through the East doors. All late arrivals need to check-in at the office. Students should conduct business matters at the office from 7:50 to 8:15a.m., at morning break, at lunchtime, or from 3:08 to 3:45 p.m.  Once a student arrives at school they are to enter the building.  They are not permitted to; loiter in the parking lot, drive their vehicles off campus once they enter the parking lot, or pick up other students from school and take them off campus.

 Visitors

All visitors are expected to enter the building by the East doors and check in at the office. Parents are always welcome at PLHS and may visit at any time. Student visitors may not attend high school classes as guests of PLHS students for all or any part of the school day including lunch unless they acquire prior approval from the administration.

2007-2008 Bell Schedule

 Most weekly schedules will follow this order:

            A day, E day, O day, E day, O day.

A Days - All classes meet. (normally Mondays)

E Days - Even - 2nd, 4th, 5th and 6th classes meet.

 (normally Tuesdays & Thursdays)

O Days - Odd - 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th classes meet.

           (normally Wednesdays & Fridays)

 "A" Day (M) w/seminar

  8:16 -   9:02  - 1^st  Period

  9:06 -   9:51  - 2^nd Period

  9:55 - 10:42  - 3^rd Period          

10:46 - 11:31  - 4^th Period

11:35 - 12:52  - 5^th Period/lunch

12:56 -   1:42  - 6^th Period

  1:46 -   2:31  - 7^th Period

  2:35 -   3:15  - Seminar

 "E" & "O" Block Day (T-F) w/seminar               

  8:16 -   9:50 - 1st / 2nd Period  

  9:50 -   10:00 - Break              

  10:00 - 11:32 - 3rd / 4th Period

11:36 - 12:52 - 5^th Period/lunch   

12:56 -   2:28 - 7^th / 6^th Period                 

  2:33 -   3:15 - Seminar 

**NOTE:  Changes may be made to the bell schedule as needed.

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ACADEMICS

Honor Roll

Each semester students receiving a GPA of 3.3 to 3.99 will be listed on the PLHS honor roll with students receiving a 4.0 and above listed separately. This honor roll listing will be reported to local newspapers for publication.

Following the end of the semester and the determination of GPA standings, an awards breakfast will be held and students will be honored. These breakfasts will be scheduled in January for the fall semester, May for seniors for spring semester and September for underclassmen from the previous spring semester. Students will be honored in the following manner:

 Students receiving a 3.3 to 3.49 GPA for the semester will be awarded a certificate.

 Students receiving a 3.5 to 3.74 will be awarded a bronze medal.

 Students receiving a 3.75 to 3.99 will be awarded a silver medal.

 Students receiving a 4.0 and above will be awarded a gold medal.

 

Academic Letters

Letters will be awarded to students with a cumulative GPA of 3.75. Students who maintain this standard after 3, 5, and 7 semesters are awarded a letter, bar and pin. An awards breakfast will be scheduled the spring semester of each year to present the above awards.

 

Student in Good Standing

A student in good standing at Perry-Lecompton High School is one that obeys all the school rules and policies.  The student does not create situations in the school that hinder the educational process or positive learning experiences.  To continue to maintain eligibility to compete or represent the school, students must meet academic standards and continue to make successful academic progress.  Any student that has ten absences or has been suspended out-of-school more than one time is considered a student not in good standing and will not be allowed to attend any extra-curricular activities.

 

Kaw Excel Program

This program was developed with the intent to reward students who follow appropriate school behavior on a regular basis. A reward of one personal day or “day off” the following semester is awarded to eligible students. Spring semester, seniors can earn a personal day in May if they meet the criteria by May 1. Nine week grades will be used for GPA information.

 Within the semester, a student will accrue:

1. Less than 2 points on the Discipline point system.
2. 4 or fewer excused absences per class period.
3. no unexcused absences
4. 2.5 or above GPA
5. must be a student in good standing

Notification from the Honor Panel will be given to those students who meet all criteria. Only a student in good standing is eligible for personal day.  Eligible students must submit to the office a personal day request that:

1. is submitted two (2) full school days before the requested date of leave; leave date must be taken on or before Dec. 1, (1^st semester) and May 1, (2^nd semester)
2. contains parental permission
3. indicates approval by all teachers
4. if the student takes a personal day, they must still be in school one-half day to participate in any school activity.  Exceptions can only be made by the administration.

Point 5 Club

This club is designed to reward those students who IMPROVE their current GPA above their cumulative GPA. Freshmen are eligible after second semester grades are reported. First semester grades are considered their cumulative GPA.

Rewards will occur after the GPAs are determined for first and second semester. The reward will be determined by the administration.

Seniors, Juniors and Sophomores who meet one of the following criteria are considered members of the Point Five Club:

1. Acquire a current GPA that is .5 points above their cumulative GPA
2. Improve so that their current GPA is a 3.75 or better
3. Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or better.
4. (SENIORS ONLY) Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better.

Grade Cards

Mid-semester reports are distributed every nine weeks to students. Students are expected to show these reports to their parents. Semester grades are mailed home ONE WEEK after the end of the semester. If students have not met monetary obligations, semester grade cards will be held until their name has been removed from the hold list.  Student grades can be check at any time on the Power School grade book system via the internet.

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ATTENDANCE 

It is the objective of the Board of Education, administration and faculty of USD 343 to provide each student with a maximum opportunity to receive a superior formal education. While we are aware that all learning is not confined to the classroom, the educational opportunities provided by the tax dollars of our citizens are severely limited for the individual student when that student is absent from the classroom environment. Parents must be aware of student absences and reduce unnecessary loss of class time.

A student is considered absent when he or she is not in regular school classes or involved in a school sponsored activity. If a student is absent, an attempt will be made by the staff to verify the absence by a call to the parents. This call will not be necessary if a parent or guardian calls early on the morning of a student’s absence and reports it to the secretary.

Upon return from an absence, a student is required to obtain an admit slip from the office prior to attending class. An excuse, written or oral, from a parent or guardian must be provided within 24 hours of the absence. Upon receipt of the excuse, a determination will be made as to the excused or unexcused status of the absence. The principal will be the final determiner in all cases concerning absences. 

 

Excused Absence

An excused absence is an absence by a student with permission from the parent and accepted by the school administrator. Family trips and college visits must be approved by the school prior to the absence to be designated as excused.  Medical/dental appointments will be approved by presenting to the office the appointment card or receipt(s) from the doctor’s office.  Absence due to illness will be approved with a phone call from the guardian or with a written note.  Family emergencies will be approved on a case by case basis by administration. 

 

Unexcused Absence

An unexcused absence is an absence by a student without parental and school permission.  Students with unexcused absences must make-up all missed work and credit will be at the discretion of the teacher.  Consequences for unexcused absences are listed on the Discipline point system.

 

Excessive Absences

In order to ensure good attendance for a positive learning environment, the faculty of Perry-Lecompton High School has established the following policy: 

• 5 Absences – After 5 absences in a class, a letter will be sent home to parents/guardians advising them of the absences and possible consequences for additional absences.
• 8 Absences – After 8 absences in a class, a mandatory meeting will be held with the student, his/her parent or guardian(s), the principal.  A plan of action to correct the situation will be developed at this time.  The student may be assigned to make up time for the missed class/classes.
• 10 Absences – After 10 absences in a class, the student will no longer be considered a student in good standing for that semester.  The student will be on the ineligible list for the remainder of the semester.  At this time, the student may be disenrolled from the class, which would result in an “F” for a final grade.

Perfect Attendance

We have many students with excellent attendance records. Perfect attendance is defined as a student having no absences except for school sponsored activities. No truancies, tardies, suspensions, or failing grades are allowed.

Those students with perfect attendance will be recognized in an assembly at the end of the semester, receive a certificate, and have their names published in the school newsletter.

 

College Visits

Prior to May 1 students may visit a college or post-secondary school.  An approval form must be obtained from the counselor, who will assist in making appointments with admissions officers and who will determine the number of hours necessary for the visit.

 

Family Trip

A Student Request for Family Trip form is available in the office and must be turned in to the administration for approval prior to departure. All trips are not automatically approved. Current attendance status will be one determinant.

 

Tardies

A student is recorded tardy if he or she is not in the classroom ready to begin class from the time the bell rings until 10 minutes have passed, (20 minutes during block classes).  After that time, he or she will be counted absent for the period.  

1. All students are expected to arrive to all classes on time.
2. Any student arriving late for class without a pass from a teacher will be sent to the office for a tardy pass.
3. Office staff will determine the excused or unexcused status of each tardy and record such status.
4. Individual unexcused tardies will be assigned a 10-minute after school detention.  Teachers may stay with their own students or assign them to room 103, in the event after school responsibilities prevent them from doing so.  A 10-minute detention leaves adequate time for students to catch buses.
5. Failure to serve the 10-minute after school detention may result in further consequences as specified in the Discipline Point system.
6. Two or more unexcused tardies on any given day may result in skipping directly to the 1-hour after school detention to be administered the following day. 
7. Students who fail to serve an assigned 1-hour detention will progress through the established building discipline procedure.  

Sign In ‑ Sign Out

When a student arrives late to school, he or she is expected to report to the office and sign the Sign In-Sign Out book. At that time the student should request an admit slip to class.  The student is expected to show the admit slip to his or her teacher upon returning to class after an absence. 

If a student finds it necessary to leave the building for any reason, he or she is expected to come to the office and request permission to sign out.  Before leaving school grounds, students must report to the office, request permission to sign out, and verify parental approval through a note submitted to the office or through a telephone conversation between the parent/guardian and a member of the office staff.

Students who leave school without following proper procedure for checking out will not be excused even if parents call in later. Failure to follow proper procedure will result in a Friday School.

 

Make-Up Assignments

Students are responsible for work missed when absent and should contact teachers before or after school to discuss make-up assignments. Students will be expected to submit missing work within two school days following each day of absence.

In laboratory classes, special arrangements may need to be made for making up a laboratory activity. Some work cannot be made up because of its nature: a rented film, guest speaker, demonstrations or performance.

 

Hall Passes

A student must have a hall pass or planner signed by an administrator, teacher, counselor or secretary to be in the corridors during class time.  The student’s school provided organizer will function as the hall pass.

Students are not to go to the parking lot during school hours unless they are personally supervised by a staff member or have permission from the office.

Attendance and Activities
For a student to participate in any school activity, he or she must be present at least one-half day of school.  If the student takes a personal day they must still be in school one-half day.  Exceptions can only be made by the administration.

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STUDENTCONDUCT

Students are under the authority of any teacher, counselor, administrator, security officer, custodian, bus driver or secretary at PLHS any time they are on the school grounds or at any school function or field trip regardless of the location. Students are expected to give respectful attention to the requests and directives of all staff members, not just the instructors they know.

 

Unacceptable Behavior

Acts of behavior that interfere with the maintenance of a good learning environment or jeopardize the welfare of others are not acceptable. If necessary, law enforcement personnel will be contacted.  Some specific acts of behavior that could lead to disciplinary action can be found outlined on the PLHS Discipline Point system grid.    The above list of actions on the point system grid is not inclusive. The administration reserves the right to determine what behavior is unacceptable to guarantee a safe school and insure a positive learning environment for all.   Any misconduct on the part of a student may result in suspension or expulsion.

A student who has detention time to make up or is assigned out-of-school suspension is not in good standing and is thereby prohibited from attending or participating in any extracurricular activity during the period of suspension.

 

Nondiscrimination

The district shall maintain a learning environment free from discrimination, insult, intimidation, or harassment due to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability.

Any incident of discrimination in any form shall promptly be reported to a teacher, the principal or other appropriate school official for investigation and corrective action by the compliance officer.

Any student who engages in discrimination, insult, intimidation, or harassment will be reprimanded and counseled by an administrator as to school policy and the law regarding harassment.  The student will sign a statement acknowledging that he/she met with the administrator and the policy was explained.  Any student who engages in further discriminatory behavior may be disciplined in a matter deemed appropriate by the administration which could include suspension or expulsion from school.

 

Gun-Free Schools Policy

A student will not knowingly possess, handle or transmit any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon on the school grounds or off the school grounds at a school activity, function or event.

This policy shall include any weapon, any item being used as a weapon or destructive device, or any facsimile of a weapon.

Possession of a firearm shall result in expulsion from school for a period of one year (186 days), except that the superintendent may recommend that this expulsion requirement be modified on a case-by-case basis under the provisions of the JDC policy (probation).

As used in this policy, the term "firearm" means any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of any explosive, the frame or receiver of any such weapon, or any firearm muffler or silencer; or any destructive device.

As used in this policy, the term "destructive device" means any explosive, incendiary or poison gas, bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, mine, or other device similar to any of these devices.

Weapons and Destructive Devices
A student shall not knowingly possess, handle or transmit any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon at school, on school property or at a school-sponsored event.  This shall include any weapon, any item used as a weapon or destructive device, or any facsimile of a weapon.

As used in this policy, the term “weapon” and/or destructive device shall include, but shall not be limited to:

• Any item being used as a weapon or destructive device;
• Any facsimile of a weapon
• Any weapon which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive;
• The frame or receiver of any weapon described In the preceding example;
• Any firearm muffler or firearm silencer;
• Any explosive, incendiary or poison gas, bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than1/4 ounce, mine or similar device;
• Any weapon which will, or which may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant, and which has any barrel with a bore of more than ½ inch in diameter; any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into a destructive device described in the two immediately preceding examples, and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled;
• Any bludgeon, sand club, metal knuckles or throwing       star;
• Any knife, commonly referred to as a switchblade, which has a blade that opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring or other device in the handle of the knife, or any knife having a blade that opens or falls or is ejected into position by the force of gravity or by an outward, downward or centrifugal thrust or movement.
• Any electronic device designed to discharge immobilizing levels of electricity, commonly known as a stun gun.
• A knife of any shape or size is not permitted at school or on school property.

Penalties for Possession   

Possession of a firearm or other weapon shall result in expulsion from school for a period of one calendar year, except the superintendent may recommend this expulsion requirement be modified on a case-by-case basis.  Possession of a facsimile of a weapon may result in suspension or expulsion.  Expulsion hearings for possession of a weapon shall be conducted by the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee.

Students violating this policy shall be reported as having a felony or misdemeanor and also refereed to the appropriate law enforcement agency(ies) and if a juvenile to SRS or the Commissioner of Juvenile Justice.

Drug-Free School Policy

If Perry-Lecompton High School is to be a safe and pleasant place to get an education, it must be a drug-free environment. It is the policy of U.S.D. #343 for the administration to make necessary searches of lockers and/or student property if there is reasonable suspicion that matter prohibited by law or school regulations exists. In addition, the administration may authorize law enforcement officers or licensed private agencies to use trained dogs on school premises to identify student property which may contain illegal or illicit materials and to determine whether materials are present which may threaten the general health, welfare, and safety of students and/or district employees.

 

Maintaining drug free schools is important in establishing an appropriate learning environment for the district’s students.  The unlawful possession, use, sale or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students on school premises or as a part of any school activity is prohibited.  This policy is required by the 1989 amendments to the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act, P.L. 102-226, 103 St. 1928

Student Conduct 

As a condition of continued enrollment in the district, students shall abide by the terms of this policy.

Students shall not unlawfully manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess or use illicit drugs, controlled substances or alcoholic beverages on school district property, or at any school activity.  Any student violating the terms of this policy will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement officials, and will be subject to the consequences list on the PLHS Discipline Point System.: 

Students who are suspended or expelled under the terms of this policy will be afforded the due process rights contained in board policies and Kansas statutes, K.S.A. 72-8901, ct seq.  Nothing in this policy is intended to diminish the ability of the district to take other disciplinary action against the student in accordance with other policies governing student discipline.  Drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation programs are available for district students.  If a student agrees to enter and complete a drug education or rehabilitation program, the cost of such program will be borne by the student and his or her parents.

A list of available programs along with names and addresses of contact persons for the programs is on file with the board clerk.  Parents or students should contact the directors of the programs to determine the cost and length of the program.

A copy of this policy will be provided to all students, and the parents of all students.  Parents of all students will be notified that compliance with this policy is mandatory.

Radios, Tape Recorders, Cellular Phones and Beepers

Student use of radios, tape recorders, CD players, MP3 players and other such equipment are prohibited in the classrooms.  Students should leave pagers and cell phones in their lockers.  Violation of this policy will result in confiscation of such articles.  Articles will not be returned until the appropriate detention time has been served.

 

Personal Appearance

Appearance and behavior are related. Proper attire is necessary in creating an environment conducive to learning. Therefore it is important that students’ appearance should be neat, clean and in good taste. In addition, students, as representatives of our school, are expected to follow the guidelines for personal appearance at all extra-curricular activities, whether at home or another site.

Bare midriffs, loose fitting tank tops, muscle shirts, fish net shirts, transparent shirts, halter tops, and tops with plunging necklines or spaghetti straps (straps less than ½ inch), and skirts or tops that do not cover undergarments are inappropriate for school attire and are not acceptable.

Any garment which advertises alcoholic beverages or drug-related material, tobacco products, obscene or suggestive slogans, pictures or patches, affiliate colors (gangs), or depicts violence (hate speech), gender or sexual harassing statements, are not permitted to be worn or displayed.

Hats, caps, sweatbands, and “do-rags”, will not be worn in the building during school hours and should be kept in lockers. To show courtesy to others, hats should be removed during music and theatre performances.

If a student’s general appearance does not comply with the guidelines for personal appearance, he or she will be asked to change his/her appearance. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action.

Public Display of Affection

Some public displays of affection may be offensive to others; therefore, students should conduct themselves in a manner that is suitable for any work or public place. Kissing is not permitted. Other than holding hands, physical contact is not considered appropriate. Students who demonstrate disregard for this policy will be placed on a behavior plan.

Disciplinary Procedures

Disciplinary procedures are clearly outlined on the PLHS Discipline Point System on the last page of the student handbook.

1.    The discipline plan at Perry-Lecompton High School provides a procedure for teachers and administrators to assist students who choose to behave inappropriately.

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CAREOF SCHOOL PROPERTY 

This is your school! Students should respect the facilities that tax payers have provided and exercise care of the property. Students who willfully deface or destroy school property will pay the cost of replacement and all necessary repairs. All such incidents will be reviewed for disciplinary action or prosecution when appropriate.

Food and Drink

Food and drink are to be consumed only in the commons area. The hallways and theatre are not considered the commons.   Students need to refrain from taking food or drink to these areas. Students may place lunches in their lockers for noon lunch or field trips, but these should be consumed in the appropriate places and removed at the end of the school day. Bottled water is allowed in the hallways and in the classrooms at teacher discretion.

Students are not allowed to bring any open beverage container into the school building at any time.

Textbooks

Each student should see that all of his or her textbooks are used but not abused and that all textbooks are checked-in at the end of the school term. Students are discouraged from writing, marking, or storing papers and pencils in textbooks and should see that books are not thrown or tossed around or mishandled in other ways. Students who damage or abuse their textbooks may be charged for the cost of repairs or replacement of the book. This includes library books.

Technology and Acceptable Use Policy

USD#343 Perry Public Schools provides technology resources to its students and staff for educational and administrative purposes. The goal in providing these resources is to promote educational excellence in the Perry School system and among its students. The use of these technology resources is a privilege, not a right.

With access to computers and people all over the world comes the potential availability of material that may not be considered to be of educational value in the context of the school setting. Perry USD #343 firmly believes that the value of information, interaction and research capabilities available outweighs the possibility that users may obtain material that is not consistent with the educational goals of the district. The district will make every effort to assist students in using the technology in a responsible, ethical and polite manner.

District Rights:  USD#343 reserves the right to monitor all activity on the district network system, review any material on user-accounts, including e-mail accounts and any material stored on the network, deem what is appropriate use of the network system and make a determination on whether specific uses of the network are consistent with the acceptable use policy.

District Responsibilities:  The district will attempt to provide a safe, secure and reliable system. It will not be held responsible for information that may be lost, damaged or unavailable due to technical or other difficulties. The district will also not be held responsible for any costs incurred by students. The district will cooperate fully with any investigation concerning or relating to any USD#343 activities.

Disciplinary Action:  These acceptable use procedures apply to all district students. Any disciplinary action for users shall be consistent with district standard policies. Exact disciplinary measures will be determined on a case-by-case basis but could include denial, suspension or cancellation of computer and/or Internet usage or suspension from school.

Acceptable Use:  The purpose of computer and Internet access is to provide research and education through technology. Persons using the school's technology are expected to use the system and equipment following district guidelines set forth here. All users must comply with the Acceptable Use Policy.

Unacceptable Use:  USD#343 reserves the right to deny computer and Internet access to any student or staff who violate the district Acceptable Use Policy. Unacceptable activities include, but are not limited to:

1. Students will not violate any copyrights, license agreements or other contracts.
2. Students will not interfere or disrupt network performance by harassment of another user; sending unwanted e-mail, chain letters or “broadcasting” messages; uploading or installing viruses or worms; invading the privacy of or modifying or destroying another user’s files; vandalism of district hardware and software.
3. Students will not use the network to access inappropriate materials such as obscenity, pornography, threatening or violent materials, or material that is racially offensive and/or abusive.
4. Students will not use any school technology for commercial activities, product advertisement or political lobbying.
5. Students will not share passwords with other students.

Lockers

Lockers should be neat and locked at all times.   Students are advised not to keep valuables or money in lockers.  All objects put on lockers must be attached with magnets.  No tape is allowed.

Book Bags

For safety reasons students may not carry book bags to classes.  Any bag that is big enough to carry a book in is a book bag.  Students are expected to use their lockers for storage of books and academic materials. 

Student Parking Lot

A parking lot for students is provided on the south side of the facility. Students are expected to park in an orderly manner, directed north and south, and not block one another. Students are not to loiter in the parking lot before or after school or during evening activities.

Safe driving practices and adhering to the 15 MPH speed limit is expected of all students who use the parking lot. Student drivers are responsible for passengers and are not to allow passengers to ride in the bed of open trucks/vehicles. Violation of these rules or failure to use good judgment will result in discipline consequences, and/or loss of parking lot privileges.

Telephone

Office phones are not for student use except in case of an emergency.  Students may use their cell phones to make a call on the balcony of the office only.  Incoming calls for students in the office will be handled by the secretaries. Only messages from parents will be reported to students and students will not be called from classes to take calls unless it is an emergency.

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SCHOOLPROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES

Medication Policy and Procedures

When medication is required during the school day and school personnel are requested to dispense the medication, please follow these procedures:

•   medication must be in the original container provided by the pharmacy

•   bring medication to the office prior to the start of school on the day it is to be administered

•   a request signed by the parent must accompany the    medication

Lunch Program

PLHS has a closed lunch hour. This means that students are not allowed to leave school grounds during their lunch hour. Students will remain in the commons area during their lunch period and will not return to their classrooms or lockers until the designated time.

Seniors have the privilege to leave the lunchroom. Senior Privilege Procedures will be distributed to members of the senior class by class officers at the beginning of the school year.

Each student at PLHS may open a personal food account for food service purchases. Initial deposits to activate the account may be made at enrollment or any school day before 8:10 a.m. with the food service secretary. Each time a student purchases a meal or Ala carte items with their lunch card, the cost of the food will be deducted from the student's personal food account. Additional deposits by students should be made in the morning before school at the office or kitchen to keep the account current.

Students are responsible for their lunch cards and for keeping money in their food accounts. Students may not share lunch cards or use lunch cards to purchase meals or Ala carte items for anyone else. When students forget their meal money, they may charge meals, but a $5.00 charge limit will be enforced. Upon reaching the $5.00 charge limit, the student's lunch card will be revoked until payment is received on the account. If students have a negative balance in their accounts, they will not be able to purchase Ala carte items. Students who lose their lunch card should notify the food service secretary in the morning before school. The secretary will issue the student another card for lunch that day. There is no charge for the first replacement.  All further replacements will cost $1.50.     

Transportation

Students who ride the bus to and from school or on an activity trip shall make themselves familiar with requirements for safe transportation and shall remember that the school bus operator is in control at all times. Students must obey the bus driver and sponsors promptly. Violation of rules will be reported to the school administration who can deny the privilege of riding the bus.

Dances

School dances are held at PLHS. No grade school or middle school student may attend high school dances. The “one time in, one time out” procedure is followed. Students will be expected to sign up out of school guests prior to the dance.

Assemblies

A variety of assemblies are scheduled at PLHS: pep assemblies, award assemblies, educational assemblies and assemblies for entertainment. Students are expected to represent themselves and their school in a respectable manner.

Some assemblies are optional. If a student chooses not to attend an assembly, he or she will report to the announced classroom.

Field Trips

Field trips provide enriching opportunities and extend educational experiences for students while being recreational and enjoyable.

Teachers will submit a list of students scheduled to attend the field trip to the office and staff.  Students ineligible or not in good standing may not be permitted to attend the field trip.

An emergency procedure form must be on file in the high school office for any student to participate in off-campus trips.

Attendance at Extra-Curricular Activities

Students are encouraged to attend extra-curricular activities. Respect to the participant is important and the “one time in, one time out” policy will be followed. Extenuating circumstances to this policy must be cleared with an administrator before leaving the building.

Student Activity Passes

All students will be assessed an activity fee at enrollment and will be issued an activity pass.  This pass will admit the student:  to all home athletic activities except tournaments, to one performance each of the musical and spring play, to Homecoming and King & Queen of Winter Sports dances, and pay in full the student’s class dues (freshman, sophomores, junior, and senior class dues).   Students are expected to stand for the national anthem, school song, and time-out cheers. In addition, students are expected to give their schoolmates the respect they deserve for participating and representing our school by applauding and providing positive encouragement at appropriate times. Students are expected to follow all Kaw Valley League and KSHSAA (Rule 52) sportsmanship guidelines.

Storm Warnings

Should it become necessary to close school due to inclement weather, road conditions, or other emergency situations, Perry USD #343 will post school closing information on the district web site, www.usd343.org and make immediate contact with the following broadcast stations:

WDAF TV – Kansas City, TV Channel 4

WIBW – Topeka, TV Channel 13, 580 AM and 94.5 FM

We recommend staying tuned to one of the stations listed above in order to receive this information in a timely manner.

Other media that will be notified as time permits would be KSNT TV – Channel 27, KTKA TV – Channel 49, KTPK Radio – FM 106.9, KLWN Radio – Channel 1320, KANU Radio – Channel 91.5 and Sunflower Cable in Lawrence – Channel 6.

Broadcasts will begin at 6:00 a.m. for all stations and will be reported approximately every 15 minutes until 9:00 a.m. School closings announced the preceding day would be broadcast on the 10:00 p.m. newscast.  WDAF Fox, TV Channel 4 has a broadcast at 9:00 p.m. and again at 10:00 p.m. and runs school closings in alphabetical order at the bottom of the screen during the newscast. In all cases, the final decision regarding school attendance during inclement weather rests with the parents.

Release of Student Information

Both the NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND ACT (NCLB) and the NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT require all school districts that receive federal monies to give military recruiters the same access to secondary school students as they provide to colleges, universities and prospective employers.  Upon request, the name, address, and telephone number of each secondary school student will be released unless the student or the student’s parent has advised the District that this information is not to be disclosed without written consent.

If a parent does not want the District to disclose any directory information, without the parent’s prior written consent, the parent must notify the District, in writing, on or before September 15.

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EXTRA‑CURRICULARACTIVITIES

Organizations

There are several clubs and organizations at PLHS that are open to the student body. Participation is encouraged.  The school expects leaders of all organizations to be exemplary in the areas of attendance, discipline, and academics.  Any officer that is suspended from school or becomes a student not in good standing may be removed from the office by the administration.

Biology Club:  The Biology Club is intended to give students more exposure to science related topics.  Past activities include zoo and museum visits, canoe trips, university orientations, and veterinary seminars.  New trip ideas are always under consideration.

Blue Krew: The purpose of Blue Krew is to promote school spirit and support various teams and organizations at PLHS. This club is open to all members of the PLHS student body. The Blue Krew makes posters and banners, and sponsors fundraising activities during the year. Students who join the Blue Krew will contribute $5.00 in annual dues.  Members also have a privilege of riding spirit buses to away contests for free transportation to games.   

Drama Club: Drama Club is open to all students interested in various phases of theatre. All members pay small yearly dues and earn membership points by working in theatrical productions. Among many activities, the club participates in all-school functions such as the homecoming parade, takes uniquely drama-oriented trips and provides necessary funds for special drama awards at recognition assemblies.

Equestrian Club: The Equestrian Club is open to any student at PLHS who is interested in horses or horse-related activities. Members of this club will have the opportunity to attend horse shows and other competitions, as well as clinics and demonstrations to improve their horse skills. Participants will also be able to listen to speakers on topics of horse care and management and to see films on various breeds and training techniques. Members will pay yearly dues to cover some club expenses. Horse ownership is not required. A trail ride will be a possible activity.

FBLA: Future Business Leaders of America is a vocational education organization for all students in high school who are interested in office and/or business careers. Underclassmen must be enrolled in a business class to be eligible for membership.  Seniors need only be enrolled in a business class for one semester to maintain their membership. 

Members will have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities throughout the year.

Members will be expected to pay yearly dues, participate in fundraisers (if needed) and be an active participant in various community service projects.

FCCLA:  Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America is avocational student organization designed to promote growth and leadership through Family and Consumer Science Education. Focusing on the multiple roles of family member, wage earner and community leader, members develop skills for life through character development, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communication, practical knowledge, and vocational preparation.  Members will have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities throughout the year.  *Members will be expected to pay yearly dues, participate in fund-raisers, and be an active participant in various community service projects.

International Club: The purpose of the International Club is to give students an opportunity to enjoy other countries cultures. This includes serving as a host organization for foreign exchange students and offering members a chance to travel to France and Spain or Mexico every other summer. The club also goes to the Renaissance Festival in the fall and hosts an International Dinner in the early spring.  *No foreign language class is required for membership, just an interest in other peoples and cultures. Dues are $2.00 per year. 

Letters Club: Letters Club includes athletes who letter in any sport. The athlete becomes a member when a head coach publicizes who has lettered for a given season. The club raises money mainly from candy and pop machine sales throughout each year. Profits have been spent on various school equipment and club activities. 

Math Team: The math team is organized each year to represent PLHS at various math contests which are held throughout the school year. Students chosen for this team must show outstanding aptitude in the area of math in which they wish to compete.

National Honor Society: The National Honor Society was founded in 1921 to recognize and foster academic achievement while developing other characteristics essential to citizens in a democracy. The PLHS chapter is dedicated to these goals.

Scholars Bowl: began at PLHS in 1983 to foster competition in academic excellence. Membership on the team is open to anyone who is interested in developing their competitive abilities. The team practices on a regular schedule and is divided into Varsity and Junior Varsity teams at competition time.

Team members can earn a Quiz Bowl letter by meeting the following three criteria.

            1.         Attend practice regularly

            2.         Participate in at least one-half of all meets at the varsity level

            3.         Abide by all Kansas State High School Association rules

There are several meets each year, including High-Q and League competition.

Student Council: The purpose of the Student Council is to promote good citizenship, sportsmanship, responsibility and equality among students and to provide fair and honest representation of the students to result in a more democratic school government. Meetings are to consist of discussions and actions upon the needs, concerns and ideas of the student body. The Council, acting in official capacity, possesses the right to make recommendations to the administration on behalf of students regarding the welfare of the school. In addition to student government concerns, the Student Council organizes the following school activities: Homecoming, King and Queen of Winter Sports, several school assemblies, and community-public relations programs. Membership in Student Councilconsists of the Student Council Officers elected by the student body and the president, vice-president, secretary, and a student council representative from each class.  

Young Adult Advisory Council

The purpose of the Young Adult Advisory council (YAAC) is to promote active citizenship, interest in reading, informational literacy, and responsible use of informational services.  YAAC members will provide fair and honest representation of the PLHS students’ informational needs and interests.

Meeting will consist of discussions and actions upon the needs, concerns, and ideas of the student body.  The council will be encouraged to make recommendations to the library media specialist on behalf of students regarding material selection, reading programs, contests, displays, special events, fund-raising activities and will investigate community outreach opportunities.

Membership in YAAC consists of the library media specialist – committee coordinator, YAAC officers – president, vice-president, secretary (all elected positions) and a YAAC representative from each PLHS seminar class (9-12) and one/two 8^th grade students (nominated by PLMS librarian and administration).  Recommendations for membership will be accepted from PLHS administration, the classroom teacher, and the library media specialist.  Officers will be nominated by the collective membership and elected at the first meeting.

The YAAC will help to organize the following school activities:  freshman orientation, top ten teen titles of PLHS, library contests, as well as activities and promotions for teen read week, banned books week, read across America, national library week, kool Kaw kafe, guest speakers, and other community/public relations programs.

Writers-In-Residence: Each year students have the opportunity to submit original compositions to be included in the literary magazine Writers-In-Residence. Teachers may also submit student work. The magazine is compiled and published during the fourth quarter and copies are available for students to purchase.

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INTERSCHOLASTICCOMPETITION

Philosophy

Excellence in interscholastic athletic competition is a fundamental part of pride, tradition and positive school climate within a high school. To develop competitiveness and dedication in athletic programs at Perry-Lecompton High School, the Board of Education supports the following:

1.  The primary goal of varsity level teams is to become successfully competitive during contests. This can only be achieved by advancing an attitude of cooperative team effort and personal skill development. Students who demonstrate the greatest physical, mental and emotional tools toward attaining this goal will participate on the varsity team, regardless of age or class.

2.  Freshmen and Junior Varsity programs focus primarily on developing and evaluating the lesser skilled athletes physically, mentally and emotionally. At the same time, the freshman and junior varsity programs will promote the same attitude goals integral to the varsity level.

Goal

The goal of the sports program at Perry-Lecompton High School is to instill the ideals of good sportsmanship, ethical behavior and integrity through involvement in the sports arena.

Educational Principles

There are ten educational principles for athletes who compete at Perry-Lecompton High School:

            1.         Learning to compete within a given set of rules.

            2.         Learning how to maintain physical well-being.

            3.         Learning the importance of constructive release of energies.

            4.         Learning how to handle socially acceptable recognition.

            5.         Learning how to understand other people’s feelings and attitudes.

            6.         Learning emotional control

            7.         Learning the importance of self-discipline.

            8.         Learning how to persevere toward a goal

            9.         Learning to think under pressure.

           10.        L