Detroit Independent School District
2008–2009 Student Handbook
Parents and Guardians,
Please review the 2008-2009 DISD Student Handbook with your child so that you are familiar with its contents and expectations of the district. Sign and date the required forms located in the front of the handbook and return to your child’s campus.
DISD
DETROIT INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
Morris Lyon, Superintendent
110 East Garner
Detroit, Texas 75436
(903) 674-6131
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS
Mrs. Joyce Hagler President
Mr. Dale Miller Vice-President
Mrs. Barbara Golden Secretary
Mr. Daniel Hart Member
Mr. DeWayne Nance Member
Mr. James Sprools Member
Ms. Susan Yarbrough Member
CENTRAL OFFICE
Anita Whitley – Executive Secretary
Greg Jones – Business Manager
Sandy Galley – PEIMS Coordinator &
Food Service Director
Kenny Horne – Technology Director
Jackie Barber – Maintenance & Transportation Director
Ken Smith – Maintenance
DETROIT INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT STAFF
Elementary Staff
Morris Lyon ______________________________________________________Principal
Chris Bradshaw___________________________________________ Assistant Principal
ColleenTrammell__________________________________________________Secretary
Kindergarten – Marilyn Gatlin and Marcelle Somerville
First Grade – Shelli Greer, Linda Pitcock, Deanna Wood
Second Grade – Beverly Killough and Melissa Norris
Third Grade – Lessa Mankins and Judith Pocter
Fourth Grade – Melody Carson and Jeania McFadden
Fifth Grade – Neita Denison, Stacy Glass, Ella Duran
Intervention – Judy Minter and Della Blanton
SpEd – Tiffany Phillips
Technology -– Bill Townsend
P.E. – Kelly Peek
Fine Arts – Nancy Redus
Teacher Aides - Brenda Burchinal, Gail Chesser and Pat Parker
Nurse - Geraldine Sprools
Custodial - Amber Ervin and Angala Mitchell
Food Service - Betty Barber, Marie Serres and Donna Posey
DETROIT INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT STAFF
Middle School and High School Staff
Misty Looney ____________________________ Principal / District Curriculum Director
Steve Drummond__________________________________________Assistant Principal
Mike Barley________________________________________________Athletic Director
Linda Melton________________________________________ Middle School Secretary
Kim Maynard__________________________________________High School Secretary
Jeff Allensworth - Biology
Vicki Banister – English Language Arts, Speech and Theater Arts
Chris Bradshaw – Head Football Coach
Paige Clark – Head Volley Ball Coach
Josh Daigle – Mathematics
Dee Evans – English, Health and Athletics
Mary Hart - SpEd
Shirley Henderson – Mathematics
Christie Henson – English Language Arts and Speech
Chad Jenkins – History and Athletics
Susan Jones – FCLA
Rick Jordan - Science
Cheryl Marquez – SpEd and Government
Lisa McCarthy – Social Studies
Albert McCoin – Agri-Science
Dwight McCowan – Health and Athletics
Peggy Mitchel – Mathematics
Haleigh Morgan – English Language Arts and Spanish
Alma Peek – BCIS and CATE
Marsha Romines - Mathematics
Trevor Upchurch – History and Athletics
David Williams – Computer Technology
Nicole Wims – Art
Teacher’s Aides - Nina Beck, Benitann Shupp, Peggy Smith, Jeanie Tucker and Wilma Vickers
Custodial – Kendra Smith and John Pope
Food Service - Freda Bolton, Jeanie Burchinal, Vicki Harris, Ruby Trammell and Helen Stamper
DETROIT SCHOOL SONG
NESTED FONDLY IN EAST TEXAS
UNDER SKIES OF BLUE
STANDS OUR NOBLE ALMA MATER
GLORIOUS TO VIEW
DETROIT HAIL OUR ALMA MATER
LOUD YOUR PRAISES BE
WE THE FAITHFUL SONS AND DAUGHTERS
PLEDGE OUR LOYALTY
DETROIT FIGHT SONG
HEY FIGHTING EAGLES-FIGHT ALL THE WAY
HEY FIGHTING EAGLES-WIN THIS GAME TODAY
YOU'VE GOT THE KNOW HOW,
YOU'RE DOING FINE.
HOLD ON TO THE BALL AS YOU HIT THE WALL
RUN UP THE SCORE
MAKE ALL THE COACHES STAND RIGHT UP AND ROAR
GIVE IT ALL THAT YOU'VE GOT;
AS YOU FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT,
AND WIN THIS GAME TONIGHT.
School Colors Team Motto
Blue and White “Champions”
“DISD – Soaring to Greater Heights of Excellence”
My child and I have received a copy of the Detroit ISD Student Handbook for 2008–2009. I understand that the handbook contains information that my child and I may need during the school year and that all students will be held accountable for their behavior and will be subject to the disciplinary consequences outlined in the Code.
Regarding student records, I understand that the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and state law require that “directory information” on my child be released by the District to anyone who requests it unless I object in writing to the release of any or all of this information. I also understand that to be in compliance with the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, the District will release to military recruiters and institutions of higher education, upon request, the name, address, and telephone listing of my child, unless I direct the District not to release this information without prior written consent, as indicated below. This objection must be filed with the principal within ten school days of my child’s first day of instruction for this school year.
Directory information includes my child’s:
■ Name
■ Address
■ Telephone listing
■ E-mail address
■ Photograph
■ Date and place of birth
■ Major field of study
■ Degrees, honors, and awards received
■ Dates of attendance
■ Grade level
■ Most recent school previously attended
■ Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
■ Weight and height, if a member of an athletic team
■ Enrollment status
In exercising my right to limit release of this information, I have marked through the items of directory information listed that I direct the District to withhold about my child.
Printed name of student:
Signature of student:
Signature of parent:
Date:
“Please sign and date this page, remove it from the handbook, and return it to the student’s school.”
I understand and accept to the responsibilities outlined in the District's Student Code of Conduct and the Student Handbook.
I also understand and agree that my child shall be held accountable for the behavior and consequences outlined in both books at school and at school-sponsored and school-related activities, including school-sponsored travel, and for any school-related misconduct, regardless of time or location.
I understand that any student who violates the Student Code of Conduct and the Student Handbook shall be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including referral for criminal prosecution for violations of the law.
I understand that the Student Handbook contains information that my child and I may need during the school year.
I, the undersigned, do hereby authorize officials of the Detroit I.S.D. to contact directly the persons named on my child's emergency contact form and do authorize the named physician (if given) to render such treatment as may be deemed necessary in an emergency, for the health of my child. In the event the physician, other person’s names, or the parents cannot be contacted, the school officials are hereby authorized to take whatever action is necessary in their judgment, for the health of my child. I will not hold the school district financially responsible for emergency care and/or transportation for my child.
I understand that corporal punishment is an option that my child may be administered during the school year. Please fill out the option you would like for Detroit ISD to use concerning corporal punishment.
I do agree to give consent for corporal punishment.
I do not agree to give consent for corporal punishment.
____________________________________ __________________
Signature of Parent or Guardian Date
____________________________________ __________________
Signature of Student Date
DETROIT ISD COMPUTER AND INTERNET USE POLICY
The use of networked computers is an integral part of the curriculum and instruction in the Detroit Independent School District. The DISD’s computer network has been established for educational purposes. The term educational purpose includes, but is not limited to, access to libraries and databases, news and current events, information management, classroom activities, media center projects, research, career development, and credit recovery software. However, despite its enormous educational opportunities, the Internet also contains the potential for abuse. It is the opinion of DISD that the educational opportunities and benefits far out weigh the negatives of the Internet. Detroit ISD is not responsible for ensuring the accuracy or usability of any information found on external networks. For safety purposes, Detroit ISD employs both an Internet filter and firewall. Detroit ISD maintains compliance with CIPA (Children’s Internet Protection Act).
Detroit ISD administration and Board of Trustees expects all employees and students to abide with the on-line Acceptable Use Procedures. Failure to follow guidelines may result in disciplinary action. Parent(s)/ guardian(s) will be given the opportunity to determine their child’s access to the Internet at the beginning of each school year. The Detroit ISD will not be responsible for any and all claims arising out of or related to the usage of this interconnected computer system.
Responsibilities of Students
The use of the computers and networks is a privilege and not a right,
inappropriate use will result in the cancellation of those privileges and/or
disciplinary action by school officials. A student's activities, while using
the computers and networks, including the Internet, in school, must be in
support of education and research consistent with the educational objectives
of Detroit ISD. In addition, a student accessing the Internet from a school
site is responsible for all on-line activities which take place through the
use of his or her account. When using any Internet site, students must comply
with rules appropriate for that site.
Responsibilities of Educators
Educators will be responsible for explaining the Acceptable Use and
Internet Safety Policy for Computers and Networks, for monitoring student
activity while using computers and networks, including the Internet, and for
taking reasonable precautions to prevent students from accessing inappropriate
sites. In addition, the school system will utilize software filtering programs
to reduce the likelihood that students will access inappropriate material. In
order to increase the protection of all users and to provide for network
security, educators will keep any passwords or list of passwords secure.
Responsibilities of Parents
Parents and guardians are responsible for reading and discussing with their children the acceptable/appropriate and unacceptable/inappropriate uses of the computers and networks, including the Internet and Internet safety, as described in this document.
The policies, procedures and rules for acceptable/appropriate use of computers and networks are contained in the Student Handbook and the Student Code of Conduct. They are intended to make the computers and networks safe, reliable, and educationally appropriate for users. They are also intended to minimize the burden of administrating the networks, so that more time can be spent enhancing services.
Use of the computers and networks is a privilege and not a right. Violation of the policies, procedures, and rules of Detroit ISD concerning the use of computers and networks may result in loss of computer privileges and Internet access, disciplinary actions under the Code of Conduct, and/or appropriate legal action. Detroit ISD reserves the right to determine whether specific uses of the computers and networks, including the Internet are acceptable or inappropriate. The principals or designees will review information and facts to determine in their professional judgment the severity of the violation and will follow district policy and guidelines to administer consequences.
Security on any computer system is a high priority, especially when the system involves many users. If a user identifies or has knowledge of a security problem on the network/Internet, the user must notify a system administrator as soon as possible. The security problem should not be shown or demonstrated to other users. Attempts to log on to the network system as another user or a system administrator will result in cancellation of user privileges and disciplinary action. Detroit ISD reserves the right to deny access to any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems. All Detroit ISD student usage of the Internet and networks is subject to monitoring by Detroit ISD personnel for inappropriate use.
Detroit ISD makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing and is not responsible for any damages suffered by users. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, mis-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its negligence or user errors or omissions. Detroit ISD is not responsible for phone/credit card bills or any other charges incurred by users. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the user’s own risk. Detroit ISD specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.
All terms and conditions as stated in this document are
applicable to the Detroit Independent School District. The terms and
conditions reflect the entire agreement of the parties and supersede all prior
oral or written agreements and understandings of the
parties. Terms and conditions shall be governed and interpreted in accordance
with the laws of the State of Texas and the United States of America.
The following terms and conditions apply to all computer
and network usage, including the Internet.
1. Users shall not erase, rename, or make unusable anyone else's computer
files,
programs, or disks.
2. Users shall not intentionally damage the system, damage information
belonging to
others, misuse system resources, or allow others to misuse system
resources.
3. Users shall not tamper with computers, networks,
printers or other associated
equipment except as directed by the teacher or librarian.
4. Users shall not write, produce, generate, copy,
propagate, or attempt to introduce
any computer code designed to self- replicate, damage, or otherwise
hinder the
performance of any computer's memory, file system, or software. Such
software is
often called a bug, virus, worm, Trojan Horse, or similar name.
5. Users shall not copy, change or transfer any software
or documentation provided by
Detroit ISD, teachers, or another student without permission from
authorized staff
members.
6. Users shall not use a computer or network for unlawful purposes, such as
the
illegal copying or installation of software or transmission or reception
of any
material in violation of federal or state regulations. This includes
but is not limited
to copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or protected
trade secrets.
7. Users shall not use Detroit ISD computers or networks for any
non-instructional
or non-administrative purpose (e.g. inappropriate games or activities
for personal
profit).
8. Users shall not take home technology equipment
(hardware or software) without
written permission of a school administrator.
9. Users shall not let other persons use their name, logon, password or files
for any reason (except for authorized staff members).
10. Users shall not use or try to discover another user's
password.
11. No student is to use the Internet without the supervision of a teacher or
librarian.
12. Users shall not download files from the Internet without prior approval and supervision of a librarian or teacher.
13. Users shall not deliberately use the computer to
annoy or harass others with
language, images, or threats. Users shall not deliberately access or
create any
obscene or objectionable information, language, or images.
14. Students
shall promptly disclose to a teacher or school administrator any message
that the student feels is inappropriate or that makes the student feel
uncomfortable.
15. Do not communicate any credit card number, bank
account, or any other financial
information.
16. For
student protection, personal information regarding users must not be provided
across the Internet (e. g., last names, pictures, addresses, telephone
numbers, or
social security numbers) unless authorized by the students’ parents and the
administration.
17. It is unacceptable to send chain letters or pyramid
schemes to lists or individuals
and any other type of use which would cause congestion of the
Internet/network
or otherwise interfere with the work of others.
18. Users should not expect that files stored on computer servers will always be private.
19. Note that electronic mail (email) is not guaranteed
to be private. People who
operate the system do have access to mail. Messages relating to or in
support
of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.
20. A fee may be charged for printed materials.
21. All users must have a signed Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy for Computers and Networks on file with Detroit ISD before use of computer and network facilities is allowed.
Inappropriate Language
1. Restrictions against inappropriate language apply to public messages, private
messages, and material posted on Web pages.
2. Students and employees shall not use obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude,
inflammatory, threatening, or disrespectful language.
3. Students and employees shall not post information that could cause damage
or a danger of disruption.
4. Students and employees shall not engage in personal attacks, including prejudicial or discriminatory attacks, based on a person's race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or disability, or engage in any other harassment or discrimination prohibited by school district policy or by law.
5. Students and employees shall not harass another person. Harassment is persistently acting in a manner that distresses or annoys another person. If students or staff are told by a person to stop sending them messages, they must stop.
6. Students and employees shall not knowingly or recklessly post false or defamatory information about a person or organization.
Internet Safety Policies
Introduction
It is the policy of Detroit ISD to: (a) prevent user access over its computer network to, or transmission of, inappropriate material via Internet, electronic mail, or other forms of direct electronic communications; (b) prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful
online activity; (c) prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal identification information of minors; and (d) comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)].
Definitions
Key terms are as defined in the Children’s Internet Protection Act.*
Access to Inappropriate Material
To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used to block or filter Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to inappropriate information.
Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet
Protection Act, blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material
deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to
minors.
Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled
or, in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other
lawful purposes.
Inappropriate Network Usage
To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote
the safety and security of users of the Detroit ISD online computer network
when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of
direct electronic communications.
Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act,
prevention of inappropriate network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access,
including so-called ‘hacking,’ and other unlawful activities; and (b)
unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification
information regarding minors.
Supervision and Monitoring
It shall be the responsibility of all members of the Detroit ISD staff to supervise and monitor usage of the online computer network and access to the Internet in accordance with this policy and the Children’s Internet protection Act.
Procedures for the disabling or otherwise modifying any technology protection measures shall be the responsibility of the Technology Coordinator with the consent of the campus principal or designated representatives.
* CIPA definitions of terms:
TECHNOLOGY PROTECTION MEASURE. The term ``technology
protection measure'' means a specific technology that blocks or filters
Internet access to visual depictions that are:
1. OBSCENE, as that term is defined in section 1460 of title
18, United States Code;
2. CHILD PORNOGRAPHY, as that term is defined in section 2256
of title 18, United States Code; or Harmful to minors.
HARMFUL TO MINORS. The term ``harmful
to minors'' means any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual
depiction that:
1. Taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest
in nudity, sex, or excretion;
2. Depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect
to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual
contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd
exhibition of the genitals; and
3. Taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or
scientific value as to minors.
SEXUAL ACT; SEXUAL CONTACT. The terms ``sexual act'' and ``sexual contact'' have the meanings given such terms in section 2246 of title 18, United States Code.
Parental Information and Authorization
District Network and Internet Resources
The Detroit Independent School District provides opportunities for students to have access through the Internet to electronic mail, databases, libraries, museums, and other information sources as part of its overall instruction program and for the purposes specified in the attached Network and Internet Use Policy.
I have read the Network and Internet Use Policy attached to this agreement and understand the conditions for use of the network and internet resources provided by the Detroit Independent School District for the purpose of promoting education excellence and supporting instructional goals.
By my signature below, I consent to my child having access to the internet through the Detroit ISD Network and release the school district from any responsibility for information my child may obtain in the course of using the Internet.
Further I agree that any use of the network and Internet under my child's user ID or account must be consistent with that policy. I understand that District employees have the authority to monitor Network usage, including electronic messages sent and received to ensure compliance with the policy, and by this Agreement consent to that access.
I understand that my child is responsible for any transactions that occur under his or her user ID or account, that any violation of that policy will be considered a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, and that my child may be denied access to the District's electronic resources in addition to any other disciplinary action.
Parent's Signature: _____________________________ Date: ______________________
Parent's Name Printed: __________________________ Campus: ___________________
Student User Agreement - District Network and Internet Resources
I have read the Network and Internet Use Policy attached to this agreement and understand the conditions for use of the Network and Internet resources provided by the Detroit Independent School District for the purpose of promoting educational excellence and supporting instructional goals.
By my signature below, I agree that any use of the Network and Internet under my user ID of account will be consistent with that policy. I understand that district employees have the authority to and will monitor network usage, including electronic messages sent and received to ensure compliance with this policy, and by this agreement consent to that access. Furthermore, I understand that I am responsible for any transactions that occur under my user ID or account and that any violation of that policy shall be considered a violation of the student Code of Conduct, and that I may be denied access to the District's electronic resources in addition to any other disciplinary action.
Student's Signature: ________________________________ Date: _______________________
Student's Name Printed: _____________________________ Campus: ____________________
PARENT'S AGREEMENT
_____ I give permission for my child to participate in the
District’s electronic communications system and certify that the information
contained on this form is correct.
_____ I do not give permission for my child to participate in
the District’s electronic communications system. I release the
District from providing state mandated curriculum and course requirements
necessary for graduation available through the Internet. I acknowledge this
may interfere with my child’s ability to graduate from Detroit ISD.
_____ I do give permission for photographs of my child to be placed on the various web sites authorized and maintained by Detroit ISD and further more, I give permission for these photographs to be transmitted across the internet, published in the Detroit Yearbook and various newspapers. This also may include school produced videos that include images of my child.
_____ I do not give permission for photographs of my child to be placed on the various web sites authorized and maintained by Detroit ISD and further more, I do not give permission for these photographs to be transmitted across the internet, published in the Detroit Yearbook and various newspapers. This also may include school produced videos that include images of my child.
As the parent or guardian of this student, I have read
Detroit ISD’s Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy for Computers and
Networks. I understand that this free access is designed for educational
purposes. However, I also recognize that it is impossible to restrict access
to all controversial materials and I will not hold Detroit ISD nor any of its
employees nor any of the institutions or networks providing access to networks
responsible for the performance of the system or the content of any material
accessed through it, as long as the district is following CIPA and COPPA
guidelines. I further understand that any violation of the regulations is
unethical and may constitute a criminal offense. Should the student commit
any violation, access privileges may be revoked; school disciplinary action
may be taken; and/or appropriate legal action initiated.
I understand that this agreement will be binding as long
as my child is a student in Detroit ISD.
I also understand that this agreement may be changed by me
through my child’s principal, in writing only.
Student Name: _________________________________________________________
Parent or Guardian’s Name (please print)
____________________________________
Signature _____________________________ Date ____________________________
*This form will be retained on file by authorized faculty designee for duration of applicable computer/network/Internet use.
ACCEPTABLE USE AND INTERNET SAFETY POLICY FOR COMPUTERS AND NETWORKS
Table of Contents
Computer and Internet Policyiii
Parental Information and Authorization District Network and Internet Resources
SECTION I: REQUIRED NOTICES AND INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION
Obtaining Information and Protecting Student Rights
“Opting Out” of Surveys and Activities
Limiting the Display of a Student’s Artwork and Projects
Requesting Professional Qualifications of Teachers and Staff
Reviewing Instructional Materials
Granting Permission to Video or Audio Record a Student
Removing a Student Temporarily from the Classroom
Excusing a Student from Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags
Excusing a Student from Reciting a Portion of the Declaration of Independence
Requesting Notices of Certain Student Misconduct
Requesting Transfers for Your Child
Requesting Classroom Assignment for Multiple Birth Siblings
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
Parents of Students with Disabilities
Services for Title I Participants
Directory Information for School-Sponsored Purposes
Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education
SECTION II: INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS
Parent’s Note After An Absence
Doctor’s Note After An Absence for Illness
Driver License Attendance Verification
CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS
CLASS RANK / TOP TEN / HIGHEST RANKING STUDENT
COLLEGE DAY – Senior Students Only
Radios, CD Players, Other Electronic Devices and Games, and Cell Phones
CONTAGIOUS DISEASES / CONDITIONS
Psychological Exams, Tests, or Treatment
CREDIT BY EXAM—If a Student Has Taken the Course
CREDIT BY EXAM—If a Student Has Not Taken the Course
DATING VIOLENCE, DISCRIMINATION, HARASSMENT & RETALIATION
DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLISHED MATERIALS OR DOCUMENTS
Nonschool Materials...from students
Nonschool Materials...from others
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONS
Degree Plan Detroit Sr. High School
Certificates of Coursework Completion
Physical Activity for Students in Elementary and Middle School
School Health Advisory Council
Notification of Law Violations
Routine and In-depth Makeup Work Assignments
Extra Curricular/Cocurricular Absences
DAEP or In-school Suspension Makeup Work
NONTRADITIONAL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE AND A MINUTE OF SILENCE
RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL
REPORT CARDS / PROGRESS REPORTS AND CONFERENCES
Drills: Fire, Tornado, and Other Emergencies
Emergency Medical Treatment and Information
Emergency School-Closing Information
SAT, ACT, AND OTHER STANDARDIZED TESTS
Use By Students Before and After School
Conduct Before and After School
Use of Hallways During Class Time
Meetings of Noncurriculum-Related Groups
TAKS (TEXAS ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS)
Buses and Other School Vehicles
To Students and Parents:
Welcome to school year 2008–2009! Education is a team effort, and we know that students, parents, teachers, and other staff members all working together can make this a wonderfully successful year for our students.
The Detroit ISD Student Handbook is designed to provide a resource for some of the basic information that you and your child will need during the school year. In an effort to make it easier to use, the handbook is divided into two sections:
Section I—REQUIRED NOTICES AND INFORMATION FOR PARENTS—with notices that the district must provide to all parents, as well as other information to assist you in responding to school-related issues. We encourage you to take some time to closely review this section of the handbook; and
Section II—INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS —organized alphabetically by topic for quick access when searching for information on a specific issue.
Please be aware that the term “the student’s parent” is used to refer to the parent, legal guardian, or any other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student.
Both students and parents should become familiar with the Detroit ISD Student Code of Conduct, which is a document adopted by the board and intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. That document may be found as a separate document sent home to parents, posted at www.detroiteagles.net and available in the principal’s office.
The student handbook is designed to be in harmony with board policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Please be aware that the handbook is updated yearly, while policy adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. Changes in policy or other rules that affect student handbook provisions will be made available to students and parents through newsletters and other communications.
In case of conflict between board policy or the Student Code of Conduct and any provisions of the student handbook, the provisions of board policy or the Student Code of Conduct that were most recently adopted by the board are to be followed.
After reading through the entire handbook with your child, keep it as a reference during this school year. If you or your child has questions about any of the material in this handbook, please contact a teacher, the counselor, or the principal.
Also, please complete and return to your child’s campus the following required forms included in this handbook:
1. Parental Acknowledgment Form;
2. Student Directory Information Form;
3. Release of Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Learning Forms; and
4. Detroit ISD Computer Network and Internet Use Policy
[See Obtaining Information and Protecting Student Rights on page 2 and Directory Information on page 8 for more information.]
Please note that references to policy codes are included so that parents can refer to current board policy. A copy of the district’s policy manual is available for review in the online at www.detroiteagles.net .
This section of the Detroit ISD Student Handbook includes several notices that the district is required to provide to you, as well as other information on topics of particular interest to you as a parent.
In its efforts to promote nondiscrimination, Detroit ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, or disability in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.
The following district staff members have been designated to coordinate compliance with these legal requirements:
· Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of sex: Morris Lyon, Superintendent.
· Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability: Donna Pyeatt.
· All other concerns regarding discrimination: See Superintendent, Morris Lyon.
Both experience and research tell us that a child’s education succeeds best when there is good communication and a strong partnership between home and school. Your involvement in this partnership may include:
· Encouraging your child to put a high priority on education and working with your child on a daily basis to make the most of the educational opportunities the school provides.
· Ensuring that your child completes all homework assignments and special projects and comes to school each day prepared, rested, and ready to learn.
· Becoming familiar with all of your child’s school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs, offered in the district.
· Discussing with the counselor or principal any questions you may have about the options and opportunities available to your child.
· Reviewing the requirements of the graduation programs with your child, if your child is entering ninth grade.
· Monitoring your child’s academic progress and contacting teachers as needed. [See Academic Counseling on page 19 and Academic Programs on page 13.]
· Attending scheduled conferences and requesting additional conferences as needed. To schedule a telephone or in-person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the school office at 903-674-3137 for the Elementary and 903-674-2646 for the Middle School/High School for an appointment. The teacher will usually return your call or meet with you during his or her conference period or before or after school. [See Report Cards/Progress Reports and Conferences on page 50.]
· Becoming a school volunteer. [For further information, see policies at GKG and contact campus principal.
· Participating in campus parent organizations. Parent organizations include: PTO, Booster Club and Educational Foundation.
· Serving as a parent representative on the district-level or campus-level planning committees, assisting in the development of educational goals and plans to improve student achievement. For further information, see policies at BQA and BQB, and contact campus principal or superintendent.
· Serving on the School Health Advisory Council, assisting the district in ensuring