Soda Springs High School is established for the purpose of preparing the young adults of Soda Springs for the future. The faculty and staff are trained and dedicated to the goal of making them productive, positive, individuals who will help make the country and communities in which they reside better places.
 

Our mission is to help our students to become successful individuals, life-long learners, dependable employees, to have stable families, and to be good citizens of our nation and world.
 

• A safe environment conducive to learning. 

• Educators are empowered to maintain classroom discipline.

• The basic values of honesty, self-discipline, unselfishness, respect for authority and the central importance of work are emphasized.

• The skills necessary to communicate effectively are taught.

• A basic curriculum necessary to enable students to enter academic or vocational post-secondary educational programs is provided.

• The skills necessary for students to enter the workforce are taught.

• The students are introduced to current technology.

• The importance of students acquiring the skills to enable them to be responsible citizens of their homes, schools, communities, state and nation is emphasized.

This student handbook is informational so that you and your parents may become more fully aware of the rules, regulations, policies, and procedures that govern school operations.  Not all policies and procedures are contained within this handbook.  For further details or information, please contact the school office.  The faculty and staff are in place to guide you through high school and the many opportunities that await you.
 

 
Each student is asked to pay an activity fee of  $29.00 when he/she registers. These funds pay for school and class activities associated with dances, homecoming, athletic events, class activities, student government, student handbooks, awards, assemblies and social events.  Students may receive a full refund if leaving school within the first two weeks of school.  After that time, the student will receive a 50 percent refund prior to December 1st.  After that date, no refund is possible.

Students with student activity cards are admitted for $1.00 to all home athletic contests (except tournaments) and are admitted at a reduced rate to games away from home. The yearbook is not included in the activity card fee and must be purchased separately.

Students must pay fees in order to participate in any extra curricular activity.
 

Respect for others and sportsmanship are synonymous. If you display one, you will display the other. We should treat other people with courtesy and respect at all times.  Play with dignity, skill, and courage, and then regardless of the score, you have won.

 The following guidelines are to promote good sportsmanship at all athletic contests:

 1.  We will show school spirit by cheering for our team.

 2.  We will not yell at or against the opposing school, players, and officials.

 3.  Derogatory cheers/taunts will not be used.

 4.  We will be respectful during the introduction of opposing players and coaches.

 5.  We will treat our visitors with courtesy and respect.

 6.  Remember -- Cheer for, not against.  Our school has class!

Principals have the authority as well as the responsibility to control the crowd and to insure good sportsmanship at all athletic contests (Idaho High School Activities Association By-Laws 2-6).
 

The Idaho High School Activities Association establishes eligibility regulations for high school activities. In order to be eligible for athletics, the participant must pass and be enrolled in a minimum of five (5) full credit classes each trimester.  Students having incompletes will be ineligible until a grade is recorded in the office.  Early graduates can finish the season of the sport or activity they are involved in but are ineligible for any activities thereafter.  Additionally, students may be dismissed from any athletic team or extracurricular activity by the principal for behavior problems.
 

Visitors

 
Visitors, including parents and former students, must receive permission at the office in order to be in the High School building or on the High School grounds during the hours school is in session -- including the time before school, at noon, and after school.  Class visitors (high school students) are permitted to attend class for one half day with prior approval from the principal.  Anyone found in any of the school buildings without specific approval of the administration will be asked to leave.
 

Graduation Requirements

The Board of Trustees of School District 150, in conformity with the Idaho State Department of Education guidelines, has established the requirements for graduation from Soda Springs High School. Students who successfully complete these requirements will be awarded a Soda Springs High School Diploma.

Graduation requirements are stated in terms of “credits earned.” One credit is awarded for each trimester of successfully completed work.
 

The new graduation requirements will be phased-in as follows.  The Class of 2007 will need 51 credits for graduation. The Class of 2008 will need 54 credits.  The Class of 2009 will need 57 credits.  The Class of 2010 will need 60 credits.  For students who graduate during 2006-07, three credits will be phased-in, one credit per trimester.  Thus, if a student graduates fall trimester, the student will need 49 credits.  Winter requires 50 credits, and spring trimester requires 51 credits.  After 2006-07, all students should be in synchronization with the annual phase-in of credits.

All class changes require approval by the parent/guardian before the office will make the change.

Junior and senior students may enroll in two teaching assistant (TA), office aides, or peer tutor positions per school year.  This does not mean two in each category. 

Students who are taking correspondence courses in order to complete graduation requirements must have their final grades and verification of completion back and registered with the high school at least one week prior to graduation.  Schools must be accredited with the Northwest Association of Schools or a comparable association of schools.

No student can participate in the graduation exercises unless all graduation requirements are fulfilled.
 

Seniors & Early Graduation

Any student contemplating early graduation, prior to his/her regular graduation date, must submit plans for approval.  If a student completes all class work by the second trimester of their senior year and chooses to attend the graduation ceremonies with their classmates, it is not considered early graduation.  Early graduates must have written approval of parents.  It is the responsibility of the student to stay abreast of all graduation requirements and activities. 

All seniors must enroll in at least three classes per day unless the student is an early graduate.  Released time is not counted as a class.
 

Guidance Services

 
Your counselor has one major goal -- to help you receive the most benefit possible from your years at Soda High School. Information about occupations, careers, scholarships, colleges, technical training, and various testing (ACT, SAT, etc) is provided.  Each year the counselor will meet with students to help plan their registration and graduation programs.
 

Athletic Credits

Any student who completes either/both of the following between their Freshmen and Senior year can earn a maximum of two PE credits: 

1.  Compete in and complete three extra curricular sports in one year.

2.  Compete in and complete three seasons in any one extra curricular sport.

PE credit is awarded only if the coach/teacher instructing the activity has a PE state endorsement.
 

GPA/Valedictorian/Salutatorian Policy

GPA - Grades will include plusses and minuses.  Classes with Pass/Fail will not be figured into the GPA.  A student must have at least 56 classes, which are graded (A/B/C/D) in order to be Valedictorian or Salutatorian.  The GPA will be determined by adding all points and dividing by the number of classes taken. The second trimester grades will be included in the determination of the final Senior GPA standing for Graduation and Honors Night. The final transcript will be determined by the final grade in the class.

Class Rank - Everyone who has a GPA of 4.0 will be ranked #1. The next highest will be ranked #2. There may be multiple people with the same ranking. If no one has a 4.0, the highest GPA will be ranked #1. There will be no calculation of GPA above 4.0 or ranking of students above the 4.0.

Valedictorian- Everyone who has a 4.0 will be Valedictorian. If no one has a 4.0 the highest GPA will be valedictorian.  Salutatorian – The next highest GPA (under 4.0) will be Salutatorian. If there is more than one person with the same GPA, there will be multiple Salutatorians.

Graduation Speakers – The two speakers at graduation will have a 4.0 GPA and the two highest ACT scores, or the highest GPA if they are not 4.0. The next highest GPA, or 4.0 GPA and next highest ACT score, will have their choice as to what part of the program they would like to do.  As many students as can be used will have a choice. If there are more 4.0 GPA students than can be used, the lower ones (according to ACT scores) may not have a part on the program.

Graduation with Honors – Students who have a 3.5 to a 3.69 GPA will graduate with Honors and wear the silver cord. Those students who have a 3.7 and above will graduate with High Honors and wear the gold cord. Those in Honor Society must have a 3.5 or higher GPA in order to wear the collar or blue cord. 
 

Advanced Placement Credit

AP  – To receive a 5.0 grading scale a student must be enrolled in the regular class but also do the extra work assigned by the teacher AT THE LEVEL REQUIRED. You do not need to take the AP test to receive the 5.0 grading scale; it is suggested but not required. Honors work must be completed within the trimester the class is taken.  Honors work must be completed by the end of the second trimester. 

All College Classes Offered – These will be graded on a 5.0 scale upon successful completion of the class, and transcripts from the college delivered to our high school.  A three-credit college class will be given two high school credits.  A two-credit college class will be given one high school credit.  Tech Prep articulation classes are not 5.0 classes. English 12A is a prerequisite for College English.

Tech Prep is a program between high school and Idaho technical colleges.  Students may receive high school and college credit simultaneously.  Students may articulate college credits up to two years after completing the course, if they have earned a B- or higher.  Students may pay a small fee to have college credits transcripted upon completion of course.
 

Trimester Exams

All students will take culminating exams in each class.  The test, or End of Course Assessment, will occur on the last day of each trimester.
 

Honor Roll

The honor roll is based on trimester grades. To be selected, a student must have all incompletes made up and have a grade point average of 3.3 or better. If a student has an incomplete, it is the student’s responsibility to see that it is cleared and a grade turned into the office.
 

Grades and Report Cards

Student records are confidential.  Access is authorized to administrators, teachers, and the student and his/her parent or guardian.

Deficiency Notices or Grade Reports:  The classroom teacher is to make a good faith effort to keep both students and parents informed of deficient scholastic achievement.  Notices or reports will be mailed home to parents when a student is deficient in class work and may be in danger of failing the course.

Report Cards are issued at the end of each trimester.  Report cards will be held until all fees and/or fines are paid.

Incompletes must be completed within two weeks; only the principal may grant exceptions.

Withdrawals or dropping a course after the first five days of the trimester, will result in a W/F being placed on the transcript.  Extenuating circumstances, such as special health problems, will be reviewed on an individual basis.

All teachers use an Internet web site to post student grades for parent and student review.  A password, acquired from the teacher, is required to access and monitor grades in such situations.
 

Make-Up Policy

Students absent are allowed one-day make-up for each day missed.  Assignments given in advance are due on the original due date.  Students suspended from school have make-up privileges.  Students on In-School-Suspension are required to do class work.
 

College Days

Two school excused days per year are allowed for Seniors to visit colleges.  Students will need to secure a signed and dated document from college personnel when visiting institutions of higher education or the day will count as an absence.  Students who falsify required documentation would face disciplinary consequences in addition to the attendance problem.
 

Grading Scale

Grading Scale

AP Grading Scale

Time Schedules

Period 6                2:53 - 4:00

School Attendance Policy

Regular and punctual patterns of attendance shall be expected of each student enrolled in SSHS.  It is recognized that absence from school is necessary under certain conditions. Every effort should be made by students, parents/guardian, teachers, and administrators to keep absences and tardiness to a minimum.

Student attendance at school is the responsibility of the parent/guardians and students. Every effort will be made by school personnel to keep the parents/guardian informed of student absences.

An adequate and comprehensive system of attendance records shall be maintained for each student. Each teacher is responsible for accurate reporting of daily attendance in his or her classroom. The building principal is responsible for maintaining attendance records of all students and submitting attendance information to the superintendent.

Except in extraordinary cases, the policy of School District 150 is that secondary students in grades 9-12 will not be given credit in a subject should they be absent more than five (5) days per trimester.

Each school will establish a Building Attendance Review Committee within the school.  Such committee will be composed of three or more educators in the building.  The Building Attendance Review Committee will meet with the students and/or parents and review the student’s attendance record. The Committee will have the authority to recommend to the principal: retention, reinstatement of credit, contractual agreement, or counsel the student and/or parent regarding alternative options.

Students who may lose credit due to excessive absences, may serve one day of Saturday School to remove an absence from the record.  Students who arrive late or leave early will not have their day of Saturday School validated.  Students must do school work, not sleep, nor socialize during this time.  The student or his/her family will pay a $15.00 fee to the high school too attend Saturday School.  No more than one Saturday School days will be scheduled per trimester.

Students who have lost credit due to excessive absences, may appeal to the Principal’s Attendance Committee (composed of the principal, counselor, and three educators) for reconsideration if there are extraordinary reasons for the absence based on new information or information that was not originally shared.  The committee will meet no earlier than the last week of the trimester.  Under an unfavorable decision, appeal may be to the Superintendent, and then to the School Board.
 

High School Attendance Guidelines

 
 It is the responsibility of the parent to see that their child is in attendance. (Idaho Code 33-205) The school’s
 responsibility is to make a good faith effort in notifying parents of student’s absences.

It is the responsibility of students to be in class from the first day of the trimester. Each trimester class has 7 minutes of learning time.  Taking school time off for vacations has a major impact on student learning

 If changes are made in a student’s schedule, all previous attendance is forwarded to the new class.

 Teachers are to take roll at the beginning of class. Students more than 5 minutes late to class are to be
 marked absent.

 The teacher’s roll book is the official record of student absences.

 The school attendance secretary’s record is the next official record of student absences.

 Three tardies in any one class equals one absence.  Chronic tardiness will result in disciplinary consequences.

 School Excused Absence is an absence attributed to a school activity or approved school business.  It is not
 counted against the student as part of the 6-day limitation because students are considered in school.

 Truancy Absence:

 a)  Students who have left the classroom or school without proper school authorization.

 b)  Absence without the knowledge of parent or school.

 c)  Following an absence, failure of student to bring a note from parent/guardian upon return to school.

Habitual truancy will be defined as any student who has more than six truancies.

Blue Slip is a form needed by a student to leave campus.  Only office personnel for special circumstances
approve blue slips.  Parents may be called before students are issued blue slips.

Admit Slip is a form acquired at the office and required to admit students back into class after an absence.

Notes received from parents describing the circumstances for the absence will be placed in the student’s
attendance file. If the student was absent for any health related appointments, a doctor-verified note will be
accepted for up to 48 hours after the time of re-admittance.

Automated phone calls will be made to student’s homes when a student is absent.

Letters will be mailed home to parents when the student reaches two and four absences.  Students will lose
credit on their fifth absence.

At three absences, a letter will be sent to parents scheduling a time for students and/or parents to meet with
the Attendance Review Committee.

a)  All Attendance Review Meetings will be taped.

b)  Records of attendance meetings will be kept in student attendance files.

At the end of the trimester and at seven absences, the grade will automatically revert to a No Credit (NC). 
If the student earned a failing grade during the trimester the attendance policy is moot, and the student will
receive a Fail "F."

 At five absences, the student will be expected to remain in class under the following conditions:

 a)  No class disruption or behavior problems.

  b)  Student will continue doing all classroom assignments with the understanding there will be no credit given.

 Persistent attendance problems may result in the student being referred by the principal to the School District
 Discipline Review Committee with the recommendation of scheduling an expulsion hearing before the school
 board.
 

Registration

1.  Students, with parental approval, are to pre-register for classes in the spring and may change classes up until
     classes begin in the fall.  It is strongly suggested that students adhere to their registration plan so that
     graduation is not put in jeopardy.

2.  One week at the beginning of each trimester is allowed for changes with parent approval.  After one-week,
     class changes can only be made with approval of the principal or counselor.

3.  Conferences with parents, students, counselor, and teachers will be held for any changes made after the first
     week of the trimester.

4.  Administrative changes may be made during the trimester when it becomes evident that a student’s behavior is
     disrupting the learning process of others in the class.
 

Released Hours Attendance

          
Students may be scheduled for release time upon the application of a parent or guardian filed with the school principal.  Release time is not available for students first period. Written requests by the parent will become a part of the student’s permanent record.  Released time will not exceed four (4) periods per week or 165 hours during the year away from the school building.  This means that students are limited to two trimesters of release time per school year.  The school is not liable for any injury, act or event occurring while the student participates in released time.
 

Part-Time Students

Students, seniors only, may enroll as part-time students in order to complete graduation requirements.  Part-time students are not allowed in the school building, when they are not enrolled in class, without permission of the principal.  An exception to this regulation would be temporarily or permanently medically disabled students.  Seniors must enroll in three classes per day, not including released time.
 

Discipline Policy

It is the function of Soda Springs High School to attempt to meet the educational needs of every child by working with the home and community. To be effective, schools must have a standard of discipline. The rules and regulations in this handbook are established to give all students the opportunity of attending school in a positive and safe atmosphere.

All students enrolled in School District 150 are charged with the responsibility of abiding by accepted standards of good conduct and discipline. Whenever a student’s behavior violates the standards adopted by School District 150, action will be taken which may deny the privileges and rights of participation in activities and/or school attendance.

Students have a right to freedom of expression, However, when the expressed message infringes upon the rights of others, or is offensive, or considered insubordinate, students will fall under the discipline code of the school.

The following rules will be observed by all students at all times while on campus.

1.  No running, pushing, or shoving in the school building.

2.  No romantic entanglements, cuddling, kissing, hugging, sitting on laps, or other excessive displays of affection.

3.  Students will be courteous to faculty, staff, and other students at all times.

4.  Students will not be allowed to be at the school, after hours, unsupervised.       

5.  Students must have a hall-pass to be outside of classroom during class hours.

6.  Students will cooperate with faculty and staff at all times.

7.  Students will not use foul or vulgar language.

8.  Portable communication devices may not be turned on or used in the classroom, detention room, or at student
     assemblies without teacher permission.  This includes cell phones, picture phones, PDA’s, and handheld gaming
     devices.

9.  The Internet and E-mail systems are solely for educational purposes.  Use of these tools is a privilege, not a
     right, and may be revoked at any time for inappropriate use.  The school’s Acceptable Use Policy provides more
     information on this topic.
 

Teacher’s Plan

The teacher’s classroom Assertive Discipline Plan involves the application of rules of conduct in the classroom. Each teacher will enforce the rules:

1.        Students will be prepared for class.

2.        Students will be courteous to others.

3.        No food, candy, pop or hats in the classroom.

4.        Cheating will not be tolerated.

5.        Students will be responsible for their actions and be cooperative with others.
 

Discipline/Misbehavior

Overview/Warning.  The classroom instructor is to warn the student of inappropriate behavior and its consequences.  This warning may take place at the first of each trimester when rules are discussed. No further warnings are necessary.  Each student should be familiar with the student handbook.  If additional information is needed, full copies of the School and District policies can be obtained in the office.  The student is responsible for his/her behavior.

Students cannot be deprived of a fair procedure to determine whether or not the misconduct occurred.  Due process means the students will have an opportunity to present their side of the story.  The requirements for due process are:

• Notice of charges either written or oral.

• Investigation completed by a school official.

• An opportunity for a hearing.

Notification of parent/guardian.  A good faith effort will be made by the school to inform parent/guardian of inappropriate student behavior.
 

Drug, Tobacco, and Alcohol Policy

The use, possession distribution or sale of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs while in school or at school-sponsored event, is prohibited. If a student is found using, possessing, or distributing or selling drugs, tobacco or alcohol, the following disciplinary steps will be taken.

TOBACCO

First Offense:

1.  Parents/Guardian will be notified of the violation and a conference will be held.

2.  The parents/guardian will be advised of the consequences of a second offense.

3.  Suspension. 

Second Offense:

1.  Parents/Guardians will be notified.

2.  Law enforcement will be notified.

3.  The student will be sent before the Building Disciplinary Review Committee, which may result in a
     recommendation to the School Board for expulsion.

 
ALCOHOL and DRUGS

First Offense:

1.  Parents/Guardian will be notified of the violation.

2.  Law enforcement will be notified.

3.  Suspension.

4.  Referral to the Building Disciplinary Committee that may result in reinstatement, referral to behavior class, or
     referral to the School Board with a recommendation for expulsion.

Second Offense:

1.  The student will be referred directly to the School Board with a recommendation for expulsion.

Sexual Harassment

 
Sexual harassment is a kind of discrimination, and it is inappropriate at school.  Sexual harassment is behavior or words that are directed at a person because of his or her sex and which are uninvited, unwanted, and unwelcome.  These may cause a person to feel uncomfortable or offended, create an environment that makes learning difficult, or may be repeated, or may be very offensive on a one-time basis.

Physical sexual harassment is any unwanted sexually oriented physical act.  Example:  grabbing or touching someone, especially his or her sexual parts; pulling someone’s clothing; purposely bumping or rubbing against a person; kissing or holding a person against his or her will.

Verbal sexual harassment means offensive words and comments.  Example:  comments about body parts; sexual suggestions or threats; spreading sexual rumors or stories; sexual jokes; using sexual orientation (homosexuality or bisexuality) as an insult.

Nonverbal sexual harassment includes:  staring or pointing at a person’s body; making obscene gestures; displaying obscene sexual material or placing it in someone’s work area; writing people’s names along with sexual remarks, suggestions, or drawings.

The consequence for sexual harassment ranges from a verbal reprimand to expulsion from school, depending on the magnitude and type of incident.
 

Minor Disciplinary Problems

Unnecessary disruptions in the classroom or in the building by noise, annoying action, inappropriate language, profanity, vulgarities, name calling directed at another student, inappropriate behavior, inappropriate dress, excessive display of affection, rudeness, loudness, horseplay, disruptions of the classroom by a student in the hall or outside the building, campus driving violations, etc.  These problems disturb the concentration of the students in the classroom and destroy the educational effectiveness of the teaching environment and interfere with the orderly environment of the school.

Procedure.  Depending upon the severity and frequency of the problem, the instructor may assign detention for minor discipline problems.  An appropriate discipline form will be filled out and mailed home to the parent or guardian.  Three “minor” disciplinary referrals to the office equal one “major.”  Minor referrals are cumulative for one school year.

Students, who receive three minor disciplinary referrals in one class, have shown by their behavior that they are not serious about changing their behavior and are repeatedly disruptive, may be removed from that class by the principal and the student will receive a No Credit (NC) grade.
 

Major Disciplinary Problems

Examples:  Defiant behavior (refusal to comply with a reasonable request); vandalism; theft; malicious injury to another person; throwing rocks, coins, snowballs, or any object that could injure; fights; abusive language, profanities, vulgarities, and name calling directed at a staff member; threatening language; harassment; sexual harassment; intimidation; alcohol, tobacco, or drugs on campus during school or events at the school; threats against another person or property; threats to harm the school; habitual truancy; or things that constitute a criminal act; possession of dangerous weapons, guns, knives, firecrackers,  materials or devices to cause a fire or explosion; laser pointers; possession or control of pornographic material; inappropriate use of computers or the Internet, E-mail, etc.

Procedure.  Following an investigation by school personnel of the incident, written or oral charges will be brought to the student. The student will have the opportunity to present his/her side of the incident (due process).  Parent/guardian will be notified by telephone or by mail.  If it is necessary, a conference will be held with the student, parent/guardian, and principal or other necessary school personnel.  A discussion, which may occur over the telephone, will be held as to the seriousness of the incident and consequences which may include:  suspension, in-house suspension, suspension from a class period, referral to the Building Discipline Review Committee, or other consequences.  Final decision for the consequences rests with the school officials involved.

If the seriousness of the problem warrants, a student may be immediately referred to the Building Disciplinary Review Committee, or to the school board for expulsion.  Major discipline is cumulative for the entire time a student is enrolled at SSHS.

The Building Discipline Review Committee (BDRC) shall consist of three teachers who have not been previously involved.

1.  The principal notifies the student and parent/guardian that the hearing has been scheduled.

2.  The school principal will present all the disciplinary infractions and the consequences that have brought the
     school and the student to this point. 

3.  Student and parents will have an opportunity to present their concerns.

4.  The BDRC is empowered to hear the case and make recommendations, which may include:  reinstatement,
     transfer, referral to behavior class, and referral to the School Board with a recommendation for expulsion.

5.  The principal notifies the parent/guardian of the decision rendered by the BDRC.  

If the BDRC recommends expulsion, the parent/guardian and student will be notified in writing that the student is being referred to the School Board for an expulsion hearing.
 

Detention

To aid teachers in maintaining discipline in class, a school-wide detention program will be used and administered by the office.  Students failing to abide by classroom or school rules may be placed on detention as a negative consequence of their actions.  Detention will be held Monday through Friday after school.  Students who fail to serve detention may be suspended.
 

Out-Of-School Suspension

1.  The superintendent or principal may suspend any student for misconduct.

2.  A suspension by the principal should not exceed five days in length.  The superintendent and school board may
    add additional days of suspension as per Idaho Code. 

3.  A cooperative student may be given the opportunity of being placed in an alternative educational setting, In-
    School-Suspension, and will be required to do class work.

4.  Prior to suspending the student, an attempt will be made to contact the parent/guardian.

5.  Parent/guardian will be given the opportunity for a corrective conference.

6.  Suspended students can make up class work missed during suspension time.

7.  Suspended or expelled students are not to be on school grounds at anytime while serving their consequence. 
     Law enforcement officials may be called in this situation for issue of trespassing violations.

8.  A student may be readmitted upon reasonable conditions as superintendent or principal prescribes.
 

In-School Suspension

 A cooperative student may be given the opportunity of being placed in an alternative setting, In-School-Suspension (if available), or Caribou County Community Service.  Participants in Caribou County Community Service program will be supervised by the Caribou County Community Service Coordinator while completing their suspension.  Students will complete their hours by continuing their missed academic work, working on asset-building skills, and providing service in the form of various projects in the community.

Expulsion

1.  The superintendent must give written notice to the parent/guardian of the student.

2.  The notice must state the grounds for the proposed expulsion and the time and place where the
     parent/guardian may appear to contest the action of the board to deny school attendance.

3.  The notice must also state the rights of the student to be represented by council, produce witnesses, and to
     submit evidence on his/her behalf, and to cross-examine any adult witnesses who may appear against him/her.

4.  Within 5-10 days from the written notice, the board of trustees must grant a full and fair hearing.

5.  Unless a student is a danger to others, he/she will be afforded an alternative educational setting pending a final
    determination by the school authorities.

6.  When a student is expelled within compulsory attendance age (7-16), the authorized representatives or the
     board must file notice to the proper authorities.

Re-admittance to school following expulsion.  The School Board may readmit a student who has been expelled.  The parent/guardian may petition for a hearing before the end of each trimester for this purpose.
 

Damage to School Property

Vandalism:  Person or persons found to be willfully destroying property of the school will be turned over to the police and avenues sought to obtain adequate compensation for damages.  Damage due to failure of student to follow school rules or use necessary caution:  Student or students will be assessed for financial remuneration of damages.  Report cards, grades, etc. will be held until damages are paid.
 

Withdrawing or Transferring to Another School

It shall be the responsibility of the student to take a withdrawal form, already pre-signed by the parent, to each of his/her teachers for their signatures and clearance.  All school materials, books, locks, etc., must be turned in and all bills taken care of.  Unpaid bills and school items not turned in may be recorded on the student’s permanent record until cleared.  Transcripts or report cards will not be issued if students have outstanding debts to the school.
 

Lunch Room

The Cardinal Nest will have a variety of foods available in addition to the regular menu. Hamburgers and French fries will be served daily as well as other choices.   Lunch will not be served until the dismissal bell rings. Trays, utensils, and garbage disposal items are to be placed in the appropriate containers.  Do not leave anything on the tables. Throwing of food or other objects is not allowed.  Students must pay to eat items prepared and served by the lunchroom staff.  Anyone who fails to observe these guidelines will be restricted from the lunchroom.

Students from families whose income is within the state preset income scale are eligible for either a free or reduced price each school day.  Application forms may be picked up in the office.  Students who qualify will pick up their lunch tickets in the lunchroom.
 

Lockers

Lockers assigned to students are the property of the school and remain under the control of the school at all times.  School officials may randomly open and inspect lockers for any reason at any time.  School officials may open and inspect lockers when there is reasonable suspicion that the lockers may contain illegal or contraband materials, other evidence of a crime or violation of district policy, or items that may be a threat to safety or security.  Searches of lockers may be conducted without notice, without consent, and without a search warrant.

Every student will be issued a lock and assigned a small locker when they enroll in school. This will be the student’s locker until changed through the office.  It is the responsibility of each student to take care of his/her lock and locker. If a lock is lost and is not turned in at the office, it will be necessary for the students to pay for a new lock.  It is very important to keep lockers locked and to not give others the combination. If the student loses anything from his/her locker, he/she is responsible and will be expected to pay for any lost school property. Never leave money or any valuable personal property in unlocked lockers. These items may be checked into the office for safekeeping.
 

Dress Code

Students at Soda Springs High School are expected to come to school clean, neat, and dressed in a manner, which is accepted as being in good taste.  Clothing which distracts from or disrupts the educational process is not appropriate. Clothing, which has obscene or vulgar expressions, exposes the midriff, is skimpy, sheer, revealing or full of holes is not allowed.  Boys must wear pants at the waistline and not allow underwear to ride up above their pants.  Shorts that are revealing, tight, or otherwise inappropriate will not be allowed.  When questions arise as to the appropriateness of clothing, the principal will be the final determiner.  Hats are not to be worn in the classroom except during spirit week costume days.  Because Soda Springs High School is a Drug Free School, hats, shoes and clothing with drug, alcohol and tobacco slogans or signs will not be allowed in school.

Students who do not meet the outlined standards of dress will be asked to change their clothes immediately, or sent home to change, and will not be allowed into school until they comply.
 

Assemblies

Assemblies are an integral part of school life. They include pep, school, outside talent, and special occasion assemblies.  Student attendance and respect shown to performers will determine the number of assemblies. Please show proper respect and enthusiasm at the proper times.  Most of our assemblies will be held in the auditorium.  Report there unless informed otherwise, and sit within your assigned class section.

Students who choose not to attend assemblies and wish to go home should make prior arrangements with the office and turn in a note from parent or guardian.
 

The Media Center (Library)

1.  The Media Center is open daily from 8:00 AM to 3:45 PM including lunch hour.

2.  Books may be checked out for a two-week period. 

3.  Computer and Internet accesses are available to students as long as inappropriate sites are not used.

4.  Evening hours for special projects may be scheduled by appointment with the Media Specialist.

5.  Computers are available for web-based courses.

6.  Online periodicals are available for home use.
 

Student Insurance

The school makes available to students the purchase of an insurance policy at low cost to protect them in case of accident or injury. The insurance will cover all athletics except football and rodeo. A separate insurance is available for football. Players should pick up the forms for this insurance prior to the first day of practice if they desire to have this coverage.

 Even if your family has their own insurance, it would be advisable to have your parents look this policy over. If you do not have insurance, it is very important for your parents to consider this low cost student policy.
 

Posters

There are several bulletin boards throughout our school.  The office must approve any announcements placed on these boards before being put on display.

All posters or announcements to be displayed anywhere in the building, other than on the bulletin boards, must also be approved by the office. Attach only to surfaces that will not be marred by using masking tape.  It is understood that all signs posted will be taken down the day after the event.      
 

Transportation To and From School Activities

Students shall travel by means of school transportation to and from all student activities they are involved in unless prior arrangements have been made between the parents/guardian and the school principal or his designee.  The exception of this would be when the student is released to the parents upon their personal request at the activity site.  Students will not be released to any other person unless the parents have made this arrangement with the principal prior to the event.  A note at the site of the activity will not be sufficient.  It will be necessary for the parent to personally contact the principal, or his designee (person in charge of the activity), and submit a note, for file purposes, indicating the desired request.  Parents must assume full responsibility in regard to transportation they choose; however, under no circumstances are students to personally drive, or to ride with someone else, to the activity site unless their parent is present in the car.
 

Parking and Driving Regulations

Cars and motorcycles may be used as transportation to and from school.  Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not right.  School officials are authorized to conduct routine patrols of school parking lots.  The interiors of vehicles may be searched whenever a school official has reasonable suspicion to believe that illegal or contraband materials, other evidence of a crime or violation of district policy, or items that may be a threat to safety or security, are contained inside.  Such searches may be conducted without notice, without consent, and without a search warrant.

Parking on the grass, or in areas where grass is supposed to be, is prohibited.  The parking areas are patrolled periodically.  Cars may be ticketed for incorrect parking,  unsafe or illegal driving practices, or not having registered the vehicle with the office.  The school does not assume any responsibility for theft or vandalism to vehicles.  Students are encouraged to keep their vehicles locked.  All driving should be done in a courteous manner.  Seat belts are encouraged when the vehicle is in motion. Violating regulations may result, in addition to fines, in the student losing privileges of having a vehicle on campus.  Students can park vehicles in the east and south parking lots.  They cannot park behind the auditorium, by the computer labs, in handicapped restricted zones, or in the paved, north parking area.
 

Shuttle Bus

Bus transportation is provided for those students going to classes at the vocational arts building, work release sites, art, and elementary school buildings.  It is the responsibility of each student to go immediately to the bus after the dismissal from the previous class.  The bus driver has been instructed not to stop for anyone who is late once the bus starts to move.  Students who miss the bus without good reason may be counted absent.  Students are not to drive, or ride with other students, to art, tutoring, vocational arts, etc.  Students who drive may be removed immediately from that class and receive a NC (no credit) for a grade.  There will be no prior warnings given.
 

Money Raising Activities

Any school club, group, or organization must receive authorization from the principal before becoming involved in any money raising activity.
 

Phone Calls

Students will not be called from classrooms to answer the phone unless a parent calls with an emergency.  Messages will be taken so that the student can return the call at a more convenient time.  The gym pay phone is provided for personal calls.  There are no phones located in the classrooms.
 

School Bus Policy

Students are charged with the responsibility of conduct, which will result in safe transportation, respect for school personnel, and respect for other students.  Failure to abide by the school bus rules, to show proper respect to others, and to comply with requests of school personnel may result in a suspension or denial of bus transportation.  Listed below are some specific rules that can guide students toward good bus conduct.  This is not an all-inclusive list, but it is representative of the types of behavior that will be expected. 

 1.   Students must not attempt to board the bus until the bus is fully stopped or leave their seats on the bus until
       the bus is fully stopped.

 2.   Articles of an injurious, objectionable, or distracting nature must not be taken on the bus (any type of
      weapon, large bulky items which might obstruct the aisle, flammable items, water guns or other spray
      apparatus, noise makers, throw able objects, etc.)

 3.   Live animals will not be permitted on the bus.

 4.   Students must remain seated while on the bus except when loading or unloading.

 5.   Activities that distract the bus driver or cause problems in the bus are prohibited.

 6.   Students are not permitted to open or close windows without permission of the bus driver.

 7.   Students must keep their hands and all other parts of their bodies inside the bus.

 8.   Fighting, pushing, tripping, or scuffling types of behavior are prohibited on the bus and at bus stops.

 9.   Students will be expected to obey the bus driver.

10.   Loud and disruptive noise will not be permitted on the bus.

11.   Throwing objects in or out of the bus is prohibited.

12.   Students must not tamper with school bus equipment.

13.   Lighting matches, spitting, littering, and use of tobacco are prohibited on the bus.

14.   Students should refrain from rude, discourteous, and annoying conduct.

15.   Destruction or defacing property is prohibited.

16.   Students must not bother other students or their belongings.

17.   Consumption of food or drinks will not be permitted on the bus.

18.   Behavior relating to safety, well-being and respect for others must be followed.

19.   The deliberate destruction or defacing of the interior or exterior of the bus by a student will result in
        immediate loss of bus transportation privileges for a minimum of one week and possibly the remainder of the
        school year.
 

Exclusion of Students from Bus Transportation

The principal will decide on the exclusion of the student from the privilege of riding the bus.  The bus driver will not exclude a student from the bus as it goes to or from school unless an emergency endangering the safety of other children demands immediate exclusion of the violator.  In all cases except emergencies, exclusion will come after the principal under the above regulations has properly notified the parents/guardian.