Neil Reid High School

GENERAL INFORMATION

Neil E. Reid High School offers an academic and behavioral program for students with severe emotional impairments in Macomb County.  Students attending Neil E. Reid are provided courses aligned with the Michigan Merit Curriculum as outlined in the Curriculum Guide found in this publication.  In addition to core MMC requirements, students maintain an Educational Development Plan as part of the transition planning process.

 Mission Statement

The mission of Neil E. Reid High School is to enhance students’ affective and cognitive skills, enabling them to make a successful transition to their local high school and community as productive, life-long learners.

 Nondiscrimination Policy

The Macomb Intermediate School District (MISD) is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  It is the policy of the MISD that no person on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, marital status, or disability shall be discriminated against, excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in any program or activity for which the MISD is responsible.  Inquiries regarding compliance with Section 504, Title IX, or the Americans with Disabilities Act may be directed to: Rosetta K. Mullen, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources/Legal Affairs and Coordinator under Section 504, Macomb Intermediate School District, 44001 Garfield Road, Clinton Township, Michigan 48038-1100, 586/228-3309.

 Program Goals

•         Teach positive social skills to promote students’ return to their Local Education Agency (LEA).

•         Provide an educational setting where individual student needs can be addressed in a small classroom setting.

•         Encourage students to become independent and better prepared for competitive employment.

•         Begin the transition from school to work and school to community.

•         Provide the opportunity to obtain credits towards high school graduation requirements.

•         Teach students necessary academic and social skills to be integrated* successfully to their LEA.

*Integration is a process in which students return to their Local Education Agency (LEA) for one or more hours during the school day, while maintaining the rest of their schedule at Neil Reid.  Integration is obtained through attendance, behavior, academic grades, and bus behavior.

Daily Schedule

•         The school day consists of seven periods allowing a possible 7 credits each year.

•         The school day and a student’s individual schedule are determined by the Individual Education Planning Team (IEPT).

•         Additional elective classes are geared toward a students’ level of ability and interest.

•         Transportation is provided by the Macomb Intermediate School District.

 Student Rights and Responsibilities

School Records

In accordance with provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 eligible persons (i.e., students 18 years of age or older, or the parents/ guardians of students under the age of 18) have the right to examine the official school records directly related to that student.  Specifically, this act mandates the right to:

•         Prohibit the release of records to noneligible agencies, institutions, or persons without prior consent;

•         Be informed of the release of records to all eligible agencies, institutions or persons;

•         Challenge the accuracy and fairness of records; and

•         Have due process in matters related to student records.

Age of Majority

Except as noted below, policies and procedures set forth in the student handbook will apply to all students, regardless of their attainment of the age of majority. 

Students 18 years and older may:

•         Have the same privilege to access their student records as their parents/guardians;

•         Represent themselves during disciplinary conferences and have grade reports mailed to them; and

•         Sign themselves in and out of school and may verify their own absences.

Note:  All school attendance standards continue to apply to students regardless of age.

We recognize that Neil E. Reid and the Macomb Intermediate School District have the responsibility to assure all students the legal rights that are theirs by virtue of guarantees in the federal and state constitutions and statutes.  Among these rights are the following:

•         The right to a free and appropriate public education. (FAPE)

•         The right to equal educational opportunity and freedom from discrimination.

•         The right to due process of law with respect to suspension, expulsion, unreasonable searches and seizures, or administrative decisions which the student believes have injured his legal rights.

•         The right to free inquiry and expression.

•         The right to privacy as defined by law.

With rights come responsibilities.  Students’ responsibilities include regular school attendance, conscientious effort in classroom work, and conformance to school rules and regulations.  It is the responsibility of each student to respect the rights of all who are involved in the educational process. 

We are committed to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge, creativity and skills necessary to promote self-worth as independent, contributing members of society. We believe students must be committed to respecting the school environment, thus allowing an environment that encourages knowledgeable, responsible, caring citizens.

 Student responsibilities include:

•       Earn academic credit toward high school graduation/a planned course of study.

•       Attend school and be on time to all classes.

•       Make up work when absent from school.

•       Review all school rules and regulations and conduct themselves accordingly.

•       Comply with state and local laws.

•       Respect school property and the property of others.

•       Dress and groom in a manner not distracting or disruptive to the school atmosphere.

•       Express ideas in a manner that will not offend or slander others.

•       Conduct themselves in a manner that promotes a safe and healthy school atmosphere.

Program of Studies

The Individual Education Program (IEP) for each student is based upon their most recent assessment scores, class work and behavioral needs as developed by the lndividual Educational Planning Team (IEPT).  Students, along with parents/ guardians, are encouraged to attend sessions for planning educational goals and objectives as well as transition.

Integration:  A process in which students gradually return to their Local Education Agency (LEA) beginning with one or more classes, while maintaining classes at Neil Reid. Integration is earned based on student performance in the following areas: attendance, achievement, and behavior. The integration process is carefully designed to help ensure a successful transition back to their local high school program.

Graduation Requirements

Graduation requirements are determined by each student’s resident district. Diplomas are issued by local high schools. 

Student Schedules

Student schedules are determined by required courses outlined in the Michigan Merit Curriculum and/or a student’s IEP.

 Michigan Merit Curriculum courses include:

English Language Arts................................................. 4 credits

Mathematics............................................................... 4 credits

Science...................................................................... 3 credits

Social Studies............................................................. 3 credits

Health/Physical Education............................................. 1 credit

Visual/Performing/Applied Arts.................................... 1 credit

World Languages**................................................... 2 credits

Online learning experience.......................................... 20 hours

**begins with the class of 2016 

Conferences

Parent/teacher conferences are scheduled in the spring.  Parents/guardians are strongly encouraged to attend.  Additional meetings may be arranged throughout the school year.  Please call the school office to schedule an appointment at (586) 469-1590. 

Student Council

A schoolwide program that allows students the opportunity to become involved in community based events/activities to further enhance their learning objectives. 

Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth

Michigan Rehabilitation Services coordinates with the school and facilitates active enrollment within their agency as part of the transitional process for students. This involvement is encouraged but voluntary. If a student or family decides not to become involved with this agency during their enrollment at Neil Reid, the services they offer remain available to them post high school.  

School Lunch

Students may purchase a hot lunch, beverage, or snack.  Free or reduced lunch prices are available for those students who qualify.  Application forms are available in the registration packet and the school office.  Contact the school office at: (586) 469-1590 regarding any questions.

Additional Support Personnel

Social Worker

Psychologist

Speech and Language Pathologist

Teacher Consultant

Consulting Psychiatrist

Nurse

Work Permits

Students under the age of 18 require a work permit.  Procedures for obtaining a permit are outlined below:

•       Secure employment

•       Obtain a work permit from the main office.

•       Student and employer must complete sections I and II, and return the form to the school office for final processing.

•       Become knowledgeable of the two passages listed below. Standards of Issuance of Work Permits, R409.5:

s       Upon written notice of the minor and employer, the issuing officer shall place a minor on a 30 calendar day probationary period when a minor’s poor school attendance results in a consistent academic performance at a level lower than that which preceded the minor’s employment.

Following the 30 calendar probationary period, and upon written notice to the minor and the employer, the issuing officer may suspend a minor from work for a period of not more than 30 calendar days when a minor’s poor school attendance results in a consistent academic performance level lower than that which preceded the employment.

Communicating Learning and Progress

Progress Reporting

Teachers communicate regularly with students and parents/guardians regarding a student’s progress.  Early communication allows students and parents/guardians to respond constructively while there is sufficient time to address problems and concerns. Teachers communicate this information through several arranged methods, i.e. routing sheets, emails, phone calls, letters, written notes, etc.

Parents/guardians will receive a progress report midway through each quarter informing them of student progress. 

Report Cards

Report cards are issued quarterly (four times per year).  Attendance record and grades are reported in each subject.  Report cards will include IEP goal and objective progress sheets.

Parents/guardians can expect to receive report cards approximately one week after the end of each marking period.

Incomplete Grades

Students are allowed three weeks after each marking period to complete coursework.  After the three week period the ‘I’ will become an ‘F’ if all work is not completed. Exceptions to the three week rule must be approved by the school administrator. 

GUIDELINES 

Attendance

Good attendance is one of the most important single factors that contribute to greater levels of achievement by students. Attendance guidelines and procedures are designed to promote good attendance in a guidance-oriented manner. The effectiveness of these guidelines depends upon parent/guardian, students and school staff working together to promote more responsible citizens. 

It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to:

•         notify transportation that the student will not be attending school
(586) 228-3333.

•         call the school office and report student absence (586) 469-1590.

•         call the local high school if the student also attends that program.

•         calls to excuse students must be made within one day of the date in which they were absent.

It is the responsibility of the student to:

•         request make up work

•         confirm with homeroom staff whether absence was excused/unexcused.

Students are expected to make up missed work regardless of whether the absence was excused or unexcused.  Doctor’s notes do not excuse students from completing missed assignments. 

Interventions

Good academic success increases the opportunity to return to the local high school and promotes responsible, lifelong attendance habits. Toward that end, three important forms of attendance support are in place.

1.      Parents/guardians will be contacted by the school when a student  acquires three consecutive days of  unexcused absences.

2.      Parents/guardians will be contacted by the school when a student acquires five cumulative days of absences. A letter documenting the dates will follow.

3.      Upon reaching 10 cumulative days of unexcused/excused absences, the student and parent/guardian will be notified verbally and in written form. A parent meeting and/or supporting documentation for the absences may be requested. A review of possible consequences may include; failing grades and loss of credit.

Exempt Absences

•         Long-term or chronic illness, an injury, or medical emergency.

•         School related absences including; field trips, activities, and exclusions.

•         Funeral/Bereavement

•         Court appearances

Students are provided the opportunity and expected to make up missed assignments in order to receive credit.

Parental Observation of Classrooms

All parent/guardian observations are subject to the prior approval of the building administrator. To protect the privacy rights and instructional needs of all students, observations shall be kept to a minimum. 

Transportation

Transportation is provided by the MISD. Based on our student population, students are not allowed to drive to school.  Listed below are the MISD Transportation Department Bus Rules.  Please review these rules with your student. Transportation meetings may be held if a student has excessive problems on the bus.  When a student is suspended from the bus, he/she is not suspended from school.  Parents/guardians must arrange for transportation when a student has a bus suspension.

•         Observe the same behavioral expectations and school policies on the bus as established in the classroom.

•         Be courteous and respectful.

•         Smoking, eating or drinking are not allowed on the bus.

•         Keep your area of the bus clean.

•         Destruction of property is prohibited.

•         Remain seated and wear seat belts at all times.

•         Keep head, hands, feet inside the bus.

•         Cooperate with the bus driver and transportation assistant.

•         Follow driver’s instructions on seating.  The driver is authorized to assign seats.

The Principal and Transportation Supervisor shall have the authority to assign discipline to students, subject to the student’s due process rights (MISD Policy 5611), and state and federal laws.  The Transportation Supervisor shall consult with the Principal or the Director of Center Programs prior to the suspension of a student from a district vehicle. However, in an emergency situation involving a substantial risk of harm to the student or others, the Transportation Supervisor has the authority to suspend a student from transportation in a district vehicle.  

Physical Restraint

A staff member may use reasonable physical force upon a student to maintain order and control in a school or school related setting for the purpose of providing an environment conducive to safety and learning.  Reasonable physical force may be used only as necessary as per Revised School Code 380.11312:

•         For self-defense or the defense of another.

•         To prevent a student from inflicting harm on themselves.

•         To stop a disturbance that threatens physical injury to another person.

•         To obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous object upon or within the control of the student.

 Health Services/Medication Procedures

If a student becomes ill within the school day, they will be directed to their homeroom teacher for further direction. These procedures will be followed:

•         A staff member will accompany the student to the office. Use of the clinic will occur if the student is found to be too ill to go on to class.  If the student is too ill to return to class, parents/guardians or other authorized person listed on the emergency card will be notified. A family pick up will be requested.

•         Parents/Guardians will be notified immediately if a student sustains an injury.

•         The school does not supply any medication to students.

•         Any over-the-counter medication, i.e. Tylenol, cough drops, etc., must be brought from home and turned into the school office.  Parents/guardians must also have their physician complete a non-prescription medication form, which is provided in the parent packet.  Additional forms may be obtained from the school office.

•         All prescription medication must be in its original, properly labeled prescription bottle and accompanied by a completed medication prescription form.  All medication and forms must be turned into the school office. 

•         Students are not allowed to carry any medication during the school day.

•         Please contact the school immediately if there is a change in the student’s medication or medication dispensing schedule.

•         Staff designated by the administrator will distribute medication to students.

 Student Lockers

Students are assigned an individual locker with an appropriate school issued lock. To prevent any loss, students must keep their lockers locked at all times and their combinations confidential. Students are responsible for items brought to school. Neil Reid/MISD is not responsible for articles lost or stolen from lockers or anywhere else in the building.  Valuables should not be brought to school.  All backpacks, trapper keepers, and personal items including I-Pods, CD Players, and MP3 players may be used only on the bus. 

 Search and Seizure

The Principal or designee may conduct a non invasive search of students or their property, with or without the student’s consent, whenever there is reasonable suspicion that the search may discover evidence of a violation of the law or district rules.  A search prompted by the reasonable belief that health and safety are immediately threatened will be conducted as promptly as possible to protect person and property (MISD Policy 5771). 

Technology

Macomb Intermediate School District Policy, 7540.03, Use of Internet and Other Electronic Communications by Students and Staff 

The Internet and other electronic communications are a complex association of governmental, business, and educational agencies working together to share resources and to exchange information with people throughout the world. 

The use of these technologies is a privilege provided to the District’s students and staff to enhance and support learning, research and communications.  Along with the use of these resources, come new responsibilities.  The intent of this Policy is to comply with the Acceptable Use Policy of the District’s Internet Service Provider (ISP) and acceptable use policy of any other networks utilized; and to ensure that the Internet and other electronic communications are used properly for educational and administrative purposes.

Acceptable use includes: 

•         Be polite.

•         Use appropriate language.

•         Respect the privacy of others.

•         Email, voicemail, and other electronic communications are not private.

•         Preserve the integrity of the network.

•         Respect the work product of other users.

•         Respect the legal protection provided by the copyright and license to programs and data.

•         Respect the integrity of computing systems.

•         Only software legally owned and authorized by the district may be put on district computers.

•         Access appropriate materials.

•         Students must follow district rules for online safety.

•         The use of the network by students and staff is limited to educational/professional business use only.

Failure to follow this Policy may result in a disciplinary action.  If necessary, the District will advise appropriate legal officials of any illegal violations. 

Each student will be presented with a contract that must be signed prior to use of District computers or other electronic communications.  Parents and students must sign the agreement before a student’s account is set up.  This agreement must be signed with each school and at the start of a new school year.

Possible consequences for not following the contract will include, but are not limited to:

Immunizations

Michigan State Law, Section 9208 of P.A. 368 of 1978 and the Macomb County Immunization Regulation enacted September 27, 1979 prohibit a principal and/or teacher from allowing your student to attend class without the required immunizations. 

Required Immunizations to Enter School

Your child must have the minimum number of doses and meet minimum intervals between doses of the immunizations as listed below:

•         DTP/DTaP/TD

•         Polio

•         MMR

•         Hepatitis B

•         Varicella

 Laboratory proof of immunity is acceptable.

•         The School District will update you on a yearly basis as to any changes in requirement for immunizations.

•         Children failing to meet the “REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS TO REMAIN IN SCHOOL” and are not in a dose waiting period will be excluded on set yearly dates.
 

POLICIES

Driving

Per the Individualized Educational Plan for each student, MISD will transport students curb to curb daily.  Students are NOT permitted to drive to/from Neil Reid High School. 

Students not utilizing MISD Transportation must be signed out in the main office by someone listed on the emergency card or authorized by parent/legal guardian.. 

Cell Phones and Electronic Communication Devices

A student may have a cellular telephone on school premises; however, a cellular phone may not be used in any manner in the school building or on the MISD bus.  The cellular telephone’s power, including its ring and vibrate functions must be completely turned off.  Telephone calls may not be made or answered and electronic communications or exchanges of information, such as texting, may not occur.  Picture taking and video recording are strictly prohibited.  If a student violates the terms of this policy, the following procedures will occur. 

1st Offense.  Cell phone will be given to the bus driver on the p.m. route with instructions to give to student when dropped off.  Warning issued, homeroom teacher will contact parent/guardian. 

2nd Offense.  Cell phone will be kept in office until parent/guardian pick up.  Parent/ guardian contact by office and arrangements for phone return will be made. 

3rd Offense Upward.  Cell phone will be kept in the office, parent will be contacted and an In School Separation will be issued.  Cell phone will remain in the office, with arrangements made with parent/guardian.  Option: administrator or designee may conduct daily, non-invasive search. 

** Additionally, if cell phone is not picked up by Parent/Guardian, it will be kept by administration for one-week from date of confiscation.  Student will have the opportunity to reclaim the cell phone with the understanding it will not be brought back to school.  If the parent/guardian prefers, the cell phone will be mailed via U.S. Mail to place of residence. 

Disciplinary Policies

The following procedures may be used when a student’s behavior interferes with the learning environment:

1.      In-School-Separation.  Student is separated from class due to disruption to the learning environment; the student may complete academic work in an alternative learning environment with staff support. 

2.      Out-of-School Suspension.  Student is excluded from school for a one to ten day period; student may complete work at no penalty. **An IEP will be held if a student accumulates a total of 10 Out-of-School Suspension days. 

3.      Restitution and Warning.  A student who unintentionally damages school or personal property will be given the opportunity to make restitution.  Parents/guardians will be notified.

 The school works closely with probation officers that are assigned to monitor those students involved with the court system.

 Drug-Free Schools

The Board of Education, in compliance with Federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments, has adopted the following drug and alcohol-free policy:

 The Board prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of any controlled substance, including alcohol, by any student on school premises or as part of any district-related activity or event.

 Compliance with this policy is mandatory for all students of the Macomb Intermediate School District.

 Disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion and referral for criminal prosecution, shall be imposed on any student who violates the standards of conduct described in this policy.  A disciplinary action may include the completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program.  Confidential substance abuse counseling and rehabilitation services/referrals are available to students through their local schools and the district’s comprehensive health coordinator.

The use of illicit drugs and unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful.  The Superintendent has established administrative guidelines to ensure compliance with the intent of this policy and to implement an age-appropriate, developmentally-based drug and alcohol education and prevention program for students.  The program addresses the legal, social, and health consequences of drug and alcohol use, and provides information about effective techniques for resisting peer pressure.

 Smoking

State law stipulates that any use of tobacco is prohibited on school property and on school buses.  The Tobacco-Free Schools Law makes violation of this policy a misdemeanor with a fine of $50.  The Principal and/or Administrator’s Designee shall investigate complaints involving students and shall work cooperatively with the police department to assure compliance with state law.

 Student Code of Conduct

The Macomb Intermediate School District’s Board of Education believes that the best discipline is self-imposed and that students should learn to assume responsibility for both their behavior and its consequences.  The Board will require each student of the district to: 

•         Conform to reasonable standards of socially acceptable behavior;

•         Respect the person, property and rights of others;

•         Preserve the degree of order necessary to the educational program in which they are engaged;

•         Respect authority and obey those who hold authority.

Students are not permitted in the hallway between classes without a hall pass.  Students using the restroom during class time must have a valid pass.

 Students detained by staff must secure an ‘excused’ pass to explain their tardiness.  Those without an ‘excused’ pass and who report to class late will receive a check in the tardy log.  Three check marks will result in a one-day escort for the student.  Classroom staff is responsible for marking the log.

 Dress Code

Appropriate Dress – The policy of the Board of Education regarding dress and appearance is stated as follows:

 The administrative guidelines shall prohibit student dress or grooming practices that interfere with schoolwork, create disorder, or disrupt the education program.  Thus, students are not permitted to wear the following attire in school:

•         sleeveless shirts, mini-skirts, midriff tops, halter tops, spandex shorts, cutoffs, or slumpy, revealing clothing;

•         clothing that depicts alcohol, tobacco, drugs, gang emblems, violence, or sexual messages;

•         shorts during winter months.  Shorts may be worn as weather permits or for physical education classes.  When shorts are worn, the length must be as long as extended arms and fingertips;

•         hats and coats are not worn in school and must remain in the student’s locker during the school day;

•         hoods on sweatshirts must remain off the head during the school day;

•         unnatural hair coloring;

•         pajama bottoms;

•         slippers

Illegal Use and/or Possession and Distribution of Controlled Substances

The Board of Education recognizes that the misuse of drugs is a serious problem with legal, physical, and social implications for the entire community. 

For purposes of this policy, ‘drugs’ shall mean:

•         All controlled substances as designated and prohibited by Michigan statute.

•         All chemicals which release toxic vapors; inhalants.

•         Use of alcohol beverages or illegal drugs on school premises, in a school-related vehicle, or at a school sponsored activity or trip.

•         Being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs on school premises in a school-related vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or trip.

•         Willful misuse of medication or abuse of other substances, including over-the-counter treatments or products (e.g., inhaling glue or aerosol can contents)that results in or could result in intoxicating effects on school premises, in a school-related vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or trip.

Use of Detection Devices Regarding Alcohol

Determining if a student has used alcohol can be difficult without objective criteria short of administering a urine and/or blood test.  In those cases, the MISD authorizes the use of an alcohol detection device, (breathalyzer) under the direction of an administrator or their designee.

 Possession or use of tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco or paraphernalia, while on school premises, in a school-related vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or trip will result in the following:

In judging whether to report these violations to legal authorities, administrator considers multiple criteria including:  the law and severity and specific context of each incident.

 Weapons/Dangerous Materials

Possession, concealment, distribution, sale, and/or use of a weapon/ dangerous material on school property including, but not limited to: a firearm, dagger, dirk, finger armor, stiletto, knife with a blade over three (3) inches in length, a pocket knife opened by a mechanical device, iron bar, razor blades, brass knuckles, and any other object of similar nature.  For purposes of this section, a firearm is defined to include a device (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may be readily converted to expel a projectile by action of an explosive; or incendiary, or poison gas, a bomb, a grenade, a rocket having a propellant charge of more than four (4) ounces, a missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, or mine (MISD Policy 8472).

 Guidelines for Disciplinary Action:

Students may be expelled from the school district unless the student can prove in a clear and convincing manner at least one of the following:

•         The object of instrument possessed by the student was not possessed by the student for use as a weapon, or for direct or indirect delivery to another person for use as a weapon;

•         The weapon was not knowingly possessed by the student;

•         The student did not know or have reason to know that the object or instrument possessed by the student constituted a dangerous weapon;

•         The weapon was possessed by the student at the suggestion, request, or direction or, or with the express permission of police or school authorities.

•         Law enforcement authorities along with the appropriate county department of social services or county community mental health agency will be notified of misconduct.

 Harassment/Bullying/Threats

It is a violation of school rules for any student to harass, bully or intimidate another student or staff member.  Please review the district policy and administrative guidelines in the policy manual in the principal’s office (MISD Policy 5517).  Students should immediately report any type of harassment/bullying by others to a staff member or principal.  All reports shall respect the privacy of the parties concerned and shall be investigated as soon as possible.

 Harassment/bullying includes:  threats, name-calling, intimidation and inappropriate touching, gestures, symbol display or verbal/non verbal written communication that makes a student feel uncomfortable or unsafe.  If a student is the victim of any unwanted sexual conduct concerning his/her gender, religion, race, ethnic group, sexual orientation, or disability, they should report this immediately to school personnel as stated above.

 Bullying/Cyberbullying is defined as physical, verbal or written (including the internet) mistreatment of a person where there is an imbalance of power to control or cause harm.  This can include isolated or repeated behavior from others.  Bullying/Cyberbullying behavior may subject a student to insults, taunts or challenges whether verbal, physical or in written form which are likely to intimidate and provoke a violent or disorderly response from the student treated in this matter.  This also includes the encouragement or prodding of other students to engage in these types of behaviors.

 **Anyone found to have violated this policy and/or the Code of Conduct either on school premises, in a school-related vehicle or at a school-sponsored activity or trip shall be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is defined as being overt activity of a sexual nature when that activity has an adverse effect on another individual or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment on school premises, in a school related vehicle, or at a school sponsored activity or trip.  Prohibited activity includes but is not limited to:

•         Making unwelcome sexual advances;

•         Making unwelcome comments of sexual nature;

•         Telling jokes having a sexual theme;

•         Using words, sounds, looks, gestures, or pictures to communicate an unwanted sexual message;

•         Showing pictures or drawings of a sexual nature;

•         Making demands for sexual favors accompanied by threats or accompanied by promises of preferential treatment;

•         Patting, pinching, unnecessary physical contact;

•         Inappropriately touching another person;

•         Spreading of sexual rumors.

**All reports of student harassment shall be promptly investigated.  Anyone found to have violated this policy and/or the Code of Conduct shall be subject to discipline up to and including discharge or expulsion.

 Insubordination

•         Failing to carry out a reasonable request by school personnel.

•         Defiance toward school personnel.*

•         Failing to complete an assigned disciplinary action.

*School personnel: adult with supervisory responsibility.

 Discipline may include but not be limited to a warning through suspension.

Destruction of Property

•         Negligent, but not intentional, damage of property.

•         Deliberate or intentional damage of property (i.e. vandalism).

Restitution and warning up through a temporary separation.

* If damage exceeds $100, the local police must be notified.  If damage is under $100, the police may be notified as appropriate.

Arson

Deliberately burning or attempting to burn any property, whether owned by the school or others, on school premises, in a school-related vehicle,  or at a school-sponsored activity or trip.

 Disciplinary action may result in permanent expulsion from the District.  The police must be notified.

Bomb Threat

•         Threatening to set off an explosive device or other dangerous device on school premises, in a school-related vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or trip.

•         Making a threat of danger that causes an evacuation of a building or an event.

 Discipline may include separation up through expulsion.  The local police must be called.

 Fighting

•         The act of engaging in hostile physical contact with another individual while on school premises, in a school-related vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or trip.

•         The act of inciting or prompting others to fight.  Planning or pre-arranging for a fight to occur at any location. 

•         Gang fighting: 3 or more individuals fighting.

Disciplinary actions may include but are not limited to temporary separation up to a 10 day suspension.  Local police may be notified as appropriate. 

BUILDING PROCEDURES

 Visitors

Visitors should enter through the North Entrance, main doors.  All visitors must sign in at the school office upon entering the building and sign out when they leave.  All other exterior doors are locked during the school day.  Visitors will be directed to their appropriate place of business. 

 Former Neil Reid students are required to set up an appointment to visit.  They are not allowed to visit during the school day when students are in attendance.

 Fire Drill

Each year schools are required by state law to conduct periodic practice fire drills.  A loud, continuous bell will ring alerting staff and students to evacuate the building using the closest exit.  After a short-period, a bell will ring to signal students to return to classes.  Fire drill directions and appropriate exit routes are clearly posted in each classroom.

 Tornados/Severe Weather

Each year Neil Reid High School will conduct periodic practice drills for the purpose of taking cover in severe weather.  Staff will lead students to safe areas designated in each part of the building.  A bell will ring three times to signify an all clear sign.  Tornado/severe weather procedures and directions are posted in each classroom.

 Crisis/Lock Down Drills

Each year, schools are required by law to conduct (2) practice crisis/lock down drills.  A public address will be made in the event of an intruder or crisis in the building.  Students are to remain in assigned rooms and move with class to a position not visible from the hallway with locked classroom door; lights off and to keep quiet waiting further directions.

 Emergency Procedures

Any emergency condition occurring during the school day will be handled by following established procedures.  If additional information is available, it will be given over the public address system.  Emergency conditions occurring when school is not in session, and which affect school opening/closing, will be announced over local radio and TV stations.  WJR 760 AM is one of the radio stations that will broadcast the announcement of a school closing.  The MISD website (www.misd.net) may also be checked.