Pinellas County Schools Policy Manual

The primary goal of the District is to ensure that each student achieves at the highest possible level. Education is to be provided in a manner that does not discriminate or cause harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, or social and family background. In order for this to be accomplished every school staff member will strive to create a positive, safe environment that encourages and supports student success. Underlying causes for misbehavior will be explored, and when possible, positive redirection will occur and acceptable alternative behaviors will be taught. Such redirection may involve a collaborative effort of parents, school, and community.

It is the objective and policy of the School Board to recognize, preserve, and protect the individual rights of all students; and, at the same time, to encourage and enforce the exercise of these rights within the framework of an orderly and efficient school program. Within this framework, it is the duty of the Board, the administrative staff, and the faculty of each school to prevent and to prohibit student conduct that becomes dangerous, disruptive, or destructive, and therefore endangers the proper maintenance and function of the school program. Staff members are expected to model core value behaviors that set an example for students. It is expected that all disciplinary measures will be conducted in a manner that is respectful to the student and preserves that student's dignity wherever possible. It is the expectation that each student will behave in a manner that does not threaten, interfere with, or deprive other students of their right to an education and will accept responsibility for their behavior. An effective school environment must be safe and free from disruption.

The Board further recognizes that students are protected and have certain rights extended to citizens under the United States Constitution and its amendments; and that these rights cannot be abridged except in accordance with the due process of law. Therefore, in order to clarify the guidelines of student behavior in the schools and establish procedures to be followed, the Code of Student Conduct has been adopted by the Board. The Code shall be mandatory and applied in a manner that is consistent with this philosophy of discipline. Individual schools may adopt additional regulations governing actions not covered by the Code, but such additional regulations may neither substitute for nor negate any Code provisions unless approved through the Board waiver process. It is essential that all students, their parents, teachers, and administrators understand and abide by the Code of Student Conduct.

"Parent” or “Parents" is either or both parents of a student, any guardian of the student, any person in a parental relationship to a student, or any person exercising supervisory authority over a student in place of the parent.

1 - PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES

School staff and parents must work together in order to maximize a student's success at school. The District commits to working with and supporting families and the District needs parents to work with and support the District.

Responsibilities of parents:

	A.	Get to know the people at their child's school by going to teacher conferences and school-parent activities like PTA meetings and the School Advisory Council (SAC) meetings.
	B.	The parent must complete the clinic card annually. Promptly notify your child’s school of any change in your telephone numbers, including home phone, cell phone, work phone, emergency contact number, or home address.
	C.	Understand and support the rules of this Code of Student Conduct and talk to their child about them.
	D.	Teach their child to dress neatly and appropriately for school since it is a place to work and learn.
	E.	Make sure their child arrives at school on time every day. Parents should be aware that if they live within two (2) miles of their child's school and the District has established safe walk pathways in that area, School District transportation would not be provided.
	F.	Will not leave their child at school more than thirty (30) minutes before the start of the school day or pick their child up more than thirty (30) minutes after the school day unless the parent has made special arrangements with a teacher, administrator, or a before/after school care program. Supervision will not be provided beyond that time. This also includes school activities outside the regular school day such as clubs, dances, carnivals, practices, and games.
	G.	Contact the school within forty-eight (48) hours after their child is absent to tell them the reason for that absence. Some schools require notes.
	H.	Tell the school principal if there is a change in residence or custody of the student, even if the parent thinks the student is still in the school's attendance zone. The parent must tell the principal within five (5) days of the change. If the school discovers that the parent moved and the parent has not told them, their child could be considered to be "found out of that school's attendance zone". This could mean an immediate change of school for their child and their child could be deemed ineligible for athletics and other activities.
	I.	Work with school staff members to solve any discipline or problems. The parent should let the school know if something has happened at home that could affect how their child does in school.
	J.	Present a photo ID and sign in at the office before entering on campus while school is in session.
	K.	Identification must be shown to the office staff when someone takes an elementary or middle school student from school during the day. Identification may be required at high schools.
		When parents are divorced or separated, both parents have full rights to participate in the child's school activities and know what is happening at school unless there is a court order limiting that access. If such an order exists then the principal must have a certified copy.
		Absent prior permission from the parent, no student shall be permitted to leave school prior to dismissal at the request of or in the company of anyone other than an authorized school employee; a law enforcement officer; child protective investigator, or other official acting in the exercise of his/her lawful authority; or the parents of the student. Prior parental permission must be evidenced on the Student Clinic Card and Release Form or on a separate written instrument signed by the parent. In the event that the school receives conflicting direction from divorced or separated parents concerning a student, the school may rely on the direction of the parent identified by the following criteria, which are listed in order of priority: First, the parent who is designated in a parenting plan or other Florida court order as having either educational decision-making authority or sole parental responsibility over the student; or Second, if both parents are designated as educational decision-makers with shared parental responsibility, the parent who resides at the address specified in the parenting plan or other Florida court order as the address to be used for school assignment purposes; or Third, if no such parenting plan or order exists or no such address is specified, the parent who resides at the address used by the District for student assignment purposes; or if this address cannot be ascertained, the parent who enrolled the student.
	L.	Give the school written permission if they want a stepparent who is not the legal guardian of the child to have information about the child or sign forms related to the child. Permission must be submitted to the school every year.
	M.	Be prepared to pay for any damage done to School Board property by their child. If payment is not made and the amount is substantial, the principal will send the matter to the Superintendent.
	N.	Pay for lost or damaged books or other teaching materials. Failure to pay may mean that no other books or materials will be given to their child, their child will not be able to participate in extra-curricular activities, or their child will be required to pay the debt through community service at the school. The principal will make those decisions.
	O.	Adhere to school developed, on-site traffic plans for vehicles when bringing students to school or picking them up after school, and encourage their children if they are walkers and bicyclists to follow safety rules and use pedestrian-safety features where available.

2 - STUDENT RIGHTS

In General

To District students, a student has a right to an education, regardless of his/her race, color, creed, religion, sex, marital status, heritage, age, disability, or sexual orientation. Some of a student's basic rights include the right to:

	A.	learn
	B.	disagree
	C.	petition
	D.	freedom of expression
	E.	publish
	F.	assembly
	G.	privacy

A student's exercise of these rights must conform to the Code of Student Conduct. Things a student cannot do include:

	A.	violate the rights of others;
	B.	disrupt the classroom;
	C.	disrupt the operation of the school;
	D.	bring drugs, weapons, or contraband to school.

First Amendment Freedom of Expression

The United States Supreme Court ruled in 1969 that public school students do not leave their constitutional right to freedom of expression at the schoolhouse gate. A student has a right to freedom of expression; however, when a student exercises that right, the student must do so in a responsible manner that does not cause a disruption of the school or a school activity. A principal may impose reasonable time, place and manner restrictions on your exercise of First Amendment freedom of expression when there is evidence of imminent disruption of the school.

Searches and Seizures

A student's locker, vehicle, purse, backpack, and other personal possessions can be searched if there is a reasonable suspicion that any of them contain drugs, weapons, contraband or other items not permitted on campus. Trained sniff-screening dogs are allowed in the schools to prevent drugs and weapons at school. The routine checks by the dogs are not considered a search by law. They are safety preventions to give students a safe and healthy school in which to learn.

Sororities, Fraternities & Secret Societies

These organizations are not allowed in schools. A student cannot participate or join in any type of initiation to such organizations.

Investigations at School

	A.	Criminal
		Law enforcement may have the lawful authority to question and arrest students on school property. If a student is a suspect in a criminal investigation by the police that may result in a student's arrest or criminal charges, an administrator will make an effort to contact the student's parent before the police begin questioning the student unless law enforcement confirms that prior notification of a parent would jeopardize public safety. If a parent cannot be located, the police may go ahead with questioning. If the student's parent is contacted, the police may allow the student's parent to be present during the student's questioning.
	B.	Administrative
		If a student is suspected of violating the Code of Student Conduct, school officials can question the student without first contacting the student's parent. The student does not have a right to have his/her parent present or a right to an attorney when the student is questioned.
	C.	Victim or Witness
		If a student is a victim or a witness, the police or administrative investigators are allowed to question the student without first contacting his/her parent. If the investigation involves child abuse, the official conducting the investigation will decide who can be present during the student's interview.
	D.	Removal of Student from School Property
		If a student is a witness, the police cannot remove the student from school property without a subpoena or first obtaining the consent of the student's parent. If the student is subject to arrest, with or without a warrant, the officer can remove the student without his/her parents’ consent or the consent of school officials. The administrator will try to notify the student's parent as soon as possible unless law enforcement confirms parent notification would jeopardize public safety.

If a student needs to be taken into protective custody, the police can remove the student. Anytime a student is taken from school by a police officer, the police officer must sign a Release Order, giving the original to the Director of School Operations, a copy to be filed at school, and a copy for your parents unless law enforcement confirms parent notification would jeopardize the student’s safety.

3 - STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

To be successful, the student should:

	A.	attend school each day;
	B.	arrive on time;
	C.	be prepared with proper materials and supplies;
	D.	keep a planner/agenda;
	E.	complete all assignments to the best of his/her ability and on time;
	F.	dress appropriately;
	G.	be tolerant of and respectful to others;
	H.	see teachers about makeup work and complete it in a timely manner;
	I.	contact the principal, assistant principal, guidance counselor, teacher, or peer tutor regarding conflicts or concerns;
	J.	set goals for success;
	K.	get enough sleep;
	L.	set responsible working hours outside of school.

A student must participate in school crisis plan activities and practices such as lock-down and fire drill. (Failure to meet these requirements may lead to disciplinary action.)

If a school uses I.D. cards, students will follow school guidelines related to the card.

A student living alone or away from home is subject to the same policies as all other students.

4 - DRESS CODE

The dress and grooming of District students shall be neat and clean, promoting a positive educational environment. Apparel that disrupts educational activities and processes of the school will result in the removal of the student from the regular school environment until acceptable apparel can be secured for the student. The administration will be the final judge about whether a student’s clothing is appropriate for school or whether it will create an environmental climate that is distracting to learning. Principals, faculty, and staff members will enforce the dress code.

Individual schools may have additional dress and grooming requirements, if recommended by administrators, faculty, and staff, and if approved by a majority of School Advisory Council (SAC) members. Notice of amended requirements must be provided to all parents in a timely manner through at least one (1) written or verbal communication and published in a document, such as the school handbook or student planner.

Requirements for student dress in all schools are listed below:

	A.	All shirts and blouses must cover midriff, back, sides, and all undergarments including bra straps at all times. All shirts, tops, and dresses shall have sleeves and cover the shoulders.
	B.	Shorts, skirts, divided skirts, dresses and culottes are allowed. They must be mid-thigh length or longer.
	C.	All trousers, pants, or shorts must totally cover undergarments, including boxer shorts.
	D.	All clothing, jewelry, or tattoos shall be free of the following: profanity; violent images, wording or suggestion; sexually suggestive phrases or images; gang related symbols; alcohol, tobacco, drugs or advertisements for such products.
	E.	Safe and appropriate footwear must be worn. Inappropriate footwear includes, but is not limited to, roller skates, skate shoes, and bedroom slippers.

Further Clarification/Other Requirements:

	A.	Form fitting leotard/spandex type clothing (including sport bras) is not allowed unless proper outer garments cover it.
	B.	See through or mesh fabric clothing may only be worn over clothing meeting requirements.
	C.	Clothing must be appropriate size, with the waist of the garment worn at the student’s waist.
	D.	Clothing not properly buttoned, zipped, fastened, or with inappropriate holes or tears shall not be worn.
	E.	Clothing and footwear traditionally designed as undergarments or sleepwear shall not be worn as outer garments.
	F.	Sunglasses may not be worn inside unless a parent provides a doctor’s note to the school.
	G.	Bandanas or sweatbands are not allowed to be visible on school grounds during the regular school hours.
	H.	Hats or other head coverings may be worn during outside P.E. activities and may not be worn during any portion of the regular school day without the expressed permission of the principal.
	I.	If the school has a mandatory school uniform policy, the student must adhere to those requirements.

5 - STUDENT ATTENDANCE

In General

	A.	Students who are registered but absent on the first day of school will be marked absent.
	B.	Students who have been absent five (5) days or more in a grading period may be required to bring a doctor’s note for each absence.
	C.	Each school will develop their own tardy policy. At some schools a certain number of "tardies" may equal an absence.
	D.	Within forty-eight (48) hours of a student’s absence the parent will send a note or call the school explaining the absence. If that contact does not occur, the absence will be recorded as unexcused. Some schools require a note.
	E.	The only student absence that may be a Code 2 (field trip) is one initiated by the school and chaperoned by a certified employee of the School Board.
	F.	Too many absences will lead to a referral to the school’s Child Study Team, referral for social work services, referral to Truancy Court, or the involvement of the Office of the State Attorney.

Excused absences include those for the following reasons:

	A.	the student is ill
	B.	major illness in the immediate family (this means parents, brothers, sisters, grandparents or others living in the home or who are close relatives)
	C.	death in the immediate family of the student
	D.	religious holiday of the student’s faith
		This requires a parent’s note before the absence. This category of absence (Code 3) is not counted when deciding who receives perfect attendance awards in the elementary or middle schools or when counting absences related to the high school "ten-day" rule.
	E.	religious institutes, conferences, or workshops (only two (2) days) if the request is signed by a parent and given to the school before the absence
		(These are not Code 3 but are excused absences.)
	F.	subpoena or forced absence by any law enforcement agency
		A copy of the subpoena or summons will be given to the principal or designee. This includes detention at a juvenile center in which the student continues his education.
	G.	a major disaster as decided by the administration
	H.	any absences, including those for field trips or other parental requests as judged appropriate by the principal, provided that the request is submitted to the principal forty-eight (48) hours in advance of the absence
		A principal may waive the requirement for advance notice if extenuating circumstances exist.

Make Up Work:

	A.	After an absence, a student must arrange with the teacher for any make up work. Students have the same number of days they were absent to make up their work except in the instance of some long-term secondary school assignments.
	B.	If a secondary teacher assigns a long-term project (when a student has ten (10) or more school days to complete the work) and gives students advance written notice that even in the event of an absence the project is due on the first day the student returns, then the student is expected to fulfill that requirement unless the principal determines there are mitigating circumstances and approves an extension. If the work is submitted after the first day back to school it may be dropped no more than one (1) letter grade for each additional day.
	C.	Work made up after an UNEXCUSED absence (such as an out-of-school suspension) may be dropped a letter grade in an elementary or middle school and must be dropped a letter grade in a high school.

High School Grading and Attendance:

Guidelines for high school grading and attendance can be found in Pinellas County School Board Policy 5.11 (1) Credit Defined and Policy 5.15 (4) (c) Final Exam Requirement.

6 - HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

HOW LONG MAY A STUDENT ATTEND HIGH SCHOOL

Generally speaking, a student may attend high school until they graduate. There are some exceptions to this general rule.

	Q.	How many semesters may a student be enrolled in high school?
	A.	A student may not be enrolled in a regular high school for more than ten (10) semesters, unless the principal approves the student's enrollment beyond ten (10) semesters.
	Q.	How will my principal decide if a student can enroll for more than ten (10) semesters?
	A.	The principal will look at the reason that student wants to continue his/her high school education and also will consider the progress s/he has made and his/her commitment to his/her education. Based upon those factors, the principal will tell the student whether s/he can enroll in the regular high school beyond ten (10) semesters.
	Q.	In what grade does the ten (10) semesters begin?
	A.	The District starts counting the semesters when a student first enrolls in the ninth grade in any public or private school.
	Q.	Is there an age limit on enrollment in high school?
	A.	A student may not enroll in regular high school if they cannot earn the number of required credits to graduate by their 20th birthday, unless the principal approves the student's enrollment. The principal will consider the same factors used to decide if a student could enroll beyond ten (10) semesters.
	Q.	If the principal decides a student cannot enroll, can s/he appeal?
	A.	If the principal decides that a student cannot enroll because they have more than ten (10) semesters or they will be twenty (20) years old before they can graduate, the student can appeal that decision to the Region Associate Superintendent's office.
		The decision of the Region Associate Superintendent's office is final. To appeal the decision of the principal, the student should follow the grievance procedure contained in Policy 5500.13.
	Q.	What if a student is not allowed to enroll?
	A.	The student may enroll in any adult program and earn his/her high school diploma.
	Q.	May a student drop out of school?
	A.	After a student's 16th birthday they may drop out of school. To be able to do so, the student must deliver a written statement to the school stating that s/he intends to drop out. That statement must also say that the student understands that s/he is likely to earn less money in the future by dropping out of school. The student and his/her parents must sign the statement and when the student delivers it to the school, the school will send a copy of it back to the student's parents.
	Q.	What happens if a student does not deliver that written statement to the school?
	A.	The student will be required to attend school until their 18th birthday.
	Q.	What about students with disabilities?
	A.	If a student has a disability, the student may enroll in school until s/he graduates with a regular diploma; satisfy the requirements for a special diploma, or until the end of the school year when the student has his/her 22nd birthday.

7 – DISCIPLINE

MISCONDUCT THAT MAY RESULT IN DISCIPLINE (INCLUDING SUSPENSION, REASSIGNMENT OR EXPULSION):

In General

A student is expected to behave at school, school activities, and the school bus stop. A student may be disciplined if they do anything at school, a school activity, or the bus stop (or attempt to do anything) that violates a school rule or may:

	A.	hurt, harass or threaten others;
	B.	damage property;
	C.	disrupt class or school;
	D.	violate a criminal law.

Specific Acts

Listed below are some acts that fall within these four (4) types of misconduct. These acts are not the only acts that may result in discipline (including suspension, reassignment or expulsion). They are only examples. Other acts that are not listed below may result in discipline (including suspension, reassignment or expulsion) if a student should have known that the act might hurt, harass, or threaten others, damage property, disrupt class or school, or violate a criminal law.

Some, but not all, of the acts that may result in discipline are:

	A.	cheating (teacher shall also record a "zero" for each act of cheating);
	B.	falsifying or altering records (for example, computer records or attendance notes);
	C.	improper use of computers or electronic devices;
	D.	threatening to hurt someone;
	E.	hitting someone;
	F.	using physical force against someone;
	G.	stealing;
	H.	fighting;
	I.	extortion;
	J.	blackmail;
	K.	repeated misconduct;
	L.	arson;
	M.	vandalism;
	N.	interference with school personnel;
	O.	interference with the movement of another student;
	P.	bullying;
	Q.	gambling;
	R.	trespassing;
	S.	defiance;
	T.	verbal abuse of another;
	U.	profanity;
	V.	failure to give correct name;
	W.	participation in disruptive demonstration;
	X.	leaving school grounds without permission;
	Y.	sexual activity at school, at a school activity, or on a school bus;
	Z.	sexual or other harassment;
	AA.	making a false alarm (this includes pulling a fire alarm);
	BB.	possession of common objects that could hurt someone (such as; self-defense chemical spray, pocketknives with a blade of four inches or shorter);
	CC.	possession of toy or replica gun or knife;
	DD.	possession of drug paraphernalia;
	EE.	possession of tobacco;
	FF.	possession of hazardous material;
	GG.	the use of cellular telephones, electronic communication devices and other electronic devices (See following section CELLULAR TELEPHONES, ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES, AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES);
	HH.	violation of a school rule;
	II.	other serious misconduct.

CELLULAR TELEPHONES, ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES, AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Parents are advised that the best way to get in touch with their child during the school day is by calling the child’s school office.

Students may possess a cellular telephone, electronic communication device (ECD), or other electronic device, such as, but not limited to, the following: personal digital assistant (PDA) , portable media player (PMP), iPod, mp3 player, and other devices designed to receive and send an electronic signal, so long as they do so in strict compliance with this policy. Any student who fails to abide by the terms of this policy forfeits any right or privilege to possess any electronic device described in this policy.

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action and/or confiscation of the cellular telephone, ECD, or electronic device. If the cellular telephone, ECD, or electronic device is confiscated, it will be released/returned to a parent.

A student may possess a cellular telephone, electronic communication device (ECD), and other electronic devices in school, on school property, at school-related functions, provided these items are powered off and concealed from view while school is in session.

Students may not use cellular telephones, other ECDs, or other electronic devices on school property or at a school-sponsored activity to access and/or view Internet web sites that are otherwise blocked to students at school.

When directed by the administrator or sponsor, cellular telephones, ECDs, and other electronic devices shall be powered off, and concealed from view during school activities occurring outside the student day.

Cellular telephones, ECDs, and other electronic devices are to be powered off, and concealed from view on district buses, except as authorized by the driver.

The requirement that cellular telephones, ECDs, and other electronic devices must be powered off, and concealed from view will not apply when the student obtains prior approval from a school administrator.

The use of cellular telephones, ECDs, and other electronic devices in locker rooms, classrooms, bathrooms, and/or swimming pools is prohibited.

The student who brings a cellular telephone, ECD, or other electronic device to school does so at his/her own risk. The student who possesses a cellular telephone, ECD, or other electronic device is responsible for its care. The School staff is not responsible for preventing theft, loss, damage, or vandalism to cellular telephones, ECDs, or other electronic devices brought onto its property, including any electronic devices confiscated due to inappropriate use.

8 - MISCONDUCT THAT REQUIRES SPECIFIC CONSEQUENCES

In General

There are some things that result in a specific consequence if a student is found to have done them. These include acts involving:

	A.	use of tobacco products;
	B.	illegal drugs, alcoholic beverages, and harmful substances;
	C.	bombs and bomb threats;
	D.	chemical and biological attacks or threats;
	E.	guns, weapons, and dangerous objects;
	F.	violent acts resulting in serious injury;
	G.	felony charges and convictions.

An administrator shall report an incident of student misconduct to law enforcement (School Resource Officer, Pinellas County Schools Police, or outside law enforcement) if the administrator reasonably believes that the conduct poses a threat to the safety of students, staff, volunteers, or other persons, or a threat of harm to Board property.

Certain acts are considered a serious threat to schools safety and must be reported to law enforcement. These acts include, but are not limited to, the following:

· Possession or use of a bomb and making of a bomb threat;

· Chemical and biological attacks or threats;

· Possession or use of a gun, weapon, or firearm.

Petty acts of misconduct need not be reported to law enforcement. Petty acts of misconduct are those that an administrator reasonably believes do not pose a threat to the safety of students, staff, volunteers, or other persons, or a threat of harm to Board property.

Tobacco and Nicotine

Use of tobacco and nicotine products on school grounds is a violation of the Code of Student Conduct.

	A.	Illegal Use of Tobacco
		Smoking by minors within 1,000 feet of a school is illegal. Also, if a student is caught smoking inside a school building s/he will receive a written citation from the School Resource Officer. The first time a student receives a citation the court may fine the student up to $100. For any additional citations, the court may fine a student up to $500.
	B.	Violation of Code of Student Conduct
		In addition to possible fines, if a student is caught using any form of tobacco or nicotine product at school, at any school-sponsored activity, at a bus stop, or on the bus, the student will be suspended for three (3) days. The first time a student is caught, s/he can avoid the suspension by completing a smoking treatment program approved by the principal.

For purposes of this policy, "use of tobacco and nicotine products" shall mean all uses of tobacco, including cigars, cigarettes, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, snuff, or any other matter or substances that contain tobacco or nicotine. Such use shall not include use of smoking cessation products such as nicotine patches or nicotine gum for their intended purposes. If a student is found with a lit cigarette, pipe, or cigar the student will be considered to be using tobacco.

Illegal Drugs, Alcoholic Beverages and Harmful Substances

	A.	Elementary School Students
		If a student is an elementary student when s/he violates this policy for the first or second time, the principal will suspend the student for ten (10) days and, if appropriate, may recommend reassignment to an alternative program. Before a student may return to his/her regular school, the student's parent must have a conference with the principal or someone designated by the principal. If the student's parent agrees that s/he will complete an approved drug or alcohol educational program, the student’s suspension will be reduced to five (5) days. The program specialist must provide proof that the student successfully completed the educational program within the allocated period of time. If the student violates this policy a third time while in elementary school, then s/he will be suspended for ten (10) days and may be recommended for expulsion.
	B.	Middle School and High School Students
		If a student is in middle or high school when s/he violates this policy s/he will be suspended for ten (10) days and reassigned to an alternative program, for one (1) or two (2) semesters. If this is the student’s first offense and s/he was not charged with a felony offense, the student and his/her parent will be offered an opportunity to participate in the Pinellas County Schools drug/alcohol educational program. If the student’s parent agrees that s/he will complete this program, the student’s suspension will be reduced to five (5) days. The program specialist must provide proof that the student successfully completed the program within the allocated period of time. Failure to successfully complete the program will result in the student’s immediate assignment to an alternative school program. If the student is caught a third time while s/he is still a student in the District, the student will be suspended for ten (10) days and may be recommended for expulsion.
	C.	Policy
		A student may not possess illegal drugs (including prescription drugs that are not the student's own) or alcoholic beverages use them or are under the influence of them:

		1.	on school property,
		2.	on a school bus or at a bus stop,
		3.	at any school activity,
		4.	before a student arrives on school grounds,
		5.	before a student arrives at any school activity, or
		6.	on any field trip.

	D.	Purchase, Sale and Distribution
		A student may not sell, purchase, or distribute illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages. Additionally, a student may not be involved in negotiating the sale or purchase of illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages at school, at a school activity, or on a school bus, even if the sale/purchase does not actually take place.
	E.	Definition of Illegal Drugs
		"Illegal drugs" include any drug that is illegal under Florida law such as marijuana, cocaine, and heroin as well as prescription drugs for which a student does not have a valid prescription.
		"Illegal drugs" also includes any illegal or legal substances used in an unsafe way. Examples of such legal substances are inhalants or over-the-counter drugs used in an unsafe way.
		"Illegal drugs" also include any prescription drug that is not used as prescribed or that is in the possession of someone whose name is not on the prescription. This means that a student may not give his/her prescription medication to anyone else.
	F.	Possession Based upon Knowledge
		If a student arrives at school or a school activity in a car that contains illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages, and the principal believes there is evidence that s/he knew about the illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages, then the student will be considered as being in possession of the illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages.
		Likewise, if a student is at a school function and are in a specific area or room where there are illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages, then s/he may be considered in possession of the illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages if the principal believes the evidence shows that the student knew about the illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages and chose to remain in the area or room. If student is in his/her own hotel room and become aware that another student in the room has an illegal substance, s/he is expected to alert a school staff chaperone immediately to request a room change.
	G.	Readmission to Regular School
		After a student has served his/her reassignment or expulsion, s/he will not be allowed to return to his/her regular school until s/he provides the principal with proof that s/he has successfully completed an approved drug or alcohol assessment program requirement.
	H.	Guilty of Unlawful Sale or Possession
		If a student has been found guilty or delinquent for the unlawful sale or possession of any controlled substance as defined in F.S. Chapter 893, the student may be suspended for ten (10) days and recommended for expulsion.
	I.	Fake Drugs
		If a student is caught in possession of or caught distributing a substance that is represented to be an illegal drug, s/he will be suspended for ten (10) days. The student may ask to have the ten (10) day suspension reduced to five (5) days by participating in a work back program which would include the completion of an approved drug or alcohol assessment.
	J.	Attempted Suicide
		If a student attempts suicide with or without illegal drugs, it will be treated as a mental health issue. A mental health assessment will be conducted before deciding what to do.

Waiver Of The Discipline Or Expulsion

Any student who is subject to discipline or expulsion for unlawful possession or use of any substance controlled under F.S. Chapter 893 may be entitled to a waiver of the discipline or expulsion under the following conditions:

	A.	If the student divulges information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person who supplied such controlled substance to him/her, or if the student voluntarily discloses his/her unlawful possession of such controlled substance prior to his/her arrest. Any information divulged which leads to such arrest and conviction is not admissible in evidence in a subsequent criminal trial against the student divulging such information.
	B.	If the student commits himself/herself, or is referred by the court in lieu of sentence, to a State-licensed residential drug abuse program and successfully completes the program.

A student may be disciplined or expelled for unlawful possession or use of any substance controlled under F.S. Chapter 893 upon the third violation of this provision.

Bombs And Bomb Threats

If a student is involved in the making of a bomb, plans for a bomb or a fake bomb, for use at school or at a school activity or while the student is at school or a school activity, s/he will be suspended for ten (10) days, recommended for expulsion, and reported to law enforcement for prosecution. The same actions will be taken if a student makes a bomb threat by any means that causes a disruption.

Chemical And Biological Attack Or Threats

If a student is involved in the making of a chemical or biological attack or threat against the school, a school function, or anybody at school or a school function, s/he will be suspended for ten (10) days, recommended for expulsion, and reported to law enforcement for prosecution to the fullest extent of the law. This applies whether or not the attack or threat is real or fake.

Guns, Weapons, And Dangerous Objects

Guns:

Any student who brings a gun to school, to any school function, or on any school-sponsored transportation, or any student who possesses or exhibits a gun at school, at any school function, or on any school-sponsored transportation, shall be suspended for ten (10) days and recommended for expulsion for not less than one (1) full year. Guns shall mean firearms as defined by F.S. 790 and include any objects (whether operable or inoperable), including starter guns, which will fire a projectile by the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver of any such weapon, any firearm muffler or silencer, or any destructive device. Guns also include any weapons which are designed to or may readily be converted to such purpose.

Weapons:

Any student who brings a weapon to school, to any school function, or on any school-sponsored transportation, or any student who possesses or exhibits a weapon at school, at any school function, or on any school-sponsored transportation, shall be suspended for ten (10) days and recommended for expulsion. Weapons as defined by F.S. 790 are any objects such as, but not limited to, the following: dirks, metallic knuckles, slingshots, billies, tear gas guns, chemical weapons or devices, knives or other deadly weapons, other than common pocketknives (blade of four (4) inches or less which are considered a dangerous object), plastic knives, or blunt bladed table knives.

Guns and weapons are not allowed in a vehicle on school property, at a school bus stop, or at a school activity. If a student is a secondary student who arrives at school or a school activity in a car that contains a gun or weapon, and the principal believes there is evidence that the student knew about the gun or weapon, then s/he will be considered to be in possession of the gun or weapon.

If a student is an elementary or secondary student at a school function and are in a specific area or room where there is a gun or weapon, then s/he may be considered to be in possession of the gun or weapon if the principal believes the evidence shows that s/he knew about the gun or weapon and chose to remain in the area or room. If a student is in his/her own hotel room and become aware that another student in the room has a gun or weapon, s/he is expected to alert a school staff chaperone immediately to request a room change.

The principal may give a student written permission to possess a gun or weapon while on campus or at a school function when the gun or weapon is part of the curriculum of the school. An example of this is when a gun or rifle may be part of JROTC drill and firing ranges.

Dangerous Objects:

Dangerous objects include, but are not limited to, common pocketknives with a blade of four (4) inches or less, ice picks, razor blades, box cutters, air guns, bb guns, pellet guns, or spring guns of any sort (whether operable or inoperable).

Any student who brings a dangerous object to school, to any school function, or on any school-sponsored transportation, or any student who possesses or exhibits a dangerous object at school, at any school function, or on any school sponsored transportation, with use or threatened use in an offensive or defensive manner, will be suspended for ten (10) days and recommended for expulsion.

Any student who brings, possesses or exhibits a dangerous object at school, or to any school function, or on any school-sponsored transportation, without the use or threatened use in an offensive or defensive manner, is guilty of a serious breach of conduct and that student will be suspended from school for ten (10) days and may be recommended for reassignment or expulsion.

Violent Acts Resulting In Serious Injury

If a student violently attacks another person or acts as a decoy in a physical attack at school, a school function, on the bus or at a bus stop and that person is seriously injured, the student will be suspended from school for ten (10) days and recommended for expulsion. If the attack by the student was unprovoked, even if there was no serious injury, the student will be suspended from school and may be reassigned or recommended for expulsion.

If a student violently attacks another person somewhere else other than school, s/he may be removed from the general education program and administratively assigned to another program when there is evidence that the student's presence on campus may be disruptive.

Felony Charges And Convictions For Off-Campus Conduct

	A.	Notice of Felony Charges and Hearing
		If a student commits a crime off campus and a prosecuting attorney formally charges the student with a felony or with a delinquent act that would be a felony if s/he were an adult, s/he may be suspended for ten (10) days by the principal. Before suspending the student, the principal will call him/her in with his/her parent to discuss the charges against the student. This discussion will be a "hearing" that will take place after the principal notifies the student's parent in writing by certified mail that the principal has received notice that s/he has been charged by the prosecuting attorney. That written notice will tell the student's parent of the specific charges against the student and advise them that they have a right to the "hearing."
	B.	Hearing Procedures
		The "hearing" must take place within five (5) school days but no sooner than two (2) school days from the postmark date or the delivery date of the certified notice to the student's parent. At the "hearing" the principal will listen to witnesses called by the principal and the student also may present witnesses. The student may speak on his/her own behalf but s/he does not have to do so. If the student does not speak on his/her own behalf, s/he cannot be threatened with punishment or later be punished for not speaking.
		The "hearing" will not be conducted like a court proceeding. There will be no "rules of evidence" nor will there be a court reporter to provide a transcript of the "hearing." After the "hearing" the principal will let the student and his/her parent know, in writing, if the student is being suspended for ten (10) days. The decision to suspend the student cannot occur without conclusive evidence that the prosecuting attorney has formally filed a felony charge against the student. The principal must also determine that the student's presence at school, after being formally charged for the incident, will have an adverse impact on the school.
	C.	Types of Charges That May Justify Suspension
		The types of charges that may justify suspension under this provision are:

		1.	any felony involving violence,
		2.	rape or sexual battery,
		3.	lewd and lascivious act on a student under sixteen (16) years of age,
		4.	concealed weapon,
		5.	armed robbery,
		6.	sale of illegal drugs,
		7.	possession of a bomb,
		8.	any felony involving the use of a firearm,
		9.	battery on school system employee or official, or
		10.	aggravated battery.
		11.	There may be other charges that will justify suspension under this provision, if the principal determines that the student's presence at school after being charged will have an adverse impact on the school.

	D.	Extension of Ten (10) Day Suspension
		If the principal suspends a student for ten (10) days, the Superintendent may extend the student's suspension until the outcome of the criminal charges that have been filed against the student. During the student's suspension, pending the outcome of the criminal charges, s/he will be assigned to an alternative educational program.
	E.	Expulsion upon Finding of Guilt
		If the court determines that a student is guilty, the Board may expel the student. During the student's expulsion, s/he may still attend the alternative program to which s/he has been assigned.

9 - CONDUCT ON SCHOOL BUSES

In General

By riding a school bus the student consents to his/her being videotaped and audio recorded while s/he is riding the bus.

Parents are responsible for their child's behavior at the bus stop prior to the arrival of the bus in the morning and after the departure of the bus at the end of the day. However, if a student is at the bus stop and violates the school rules, the school can still discipline the student for his/her behavior. Students are to be on time and stand off the roadway.

The District seeks to ensure the safety of all students who ride District buses and staff who operate them. Unauthorized individuals including, but not limited to: parents, students, and siblings may not board a school bus or attempt to conference with a bus driver or authorized rider, while en route to or from school. Any concerns related to transportation should be communicated to the school or the transportation department.

Individuals who do not adhere to this expectation may face criminal prosecution for trespassing, in addition to other charges which may be brought pursuant to local and State law.

If a student causes any damage to the bus or another vehicle, the student's parent shall be responsible to pay for the damage.

A student can be disciplined for doing anything at the bus stop that s/he can be disciplined for if they did that same thing at school.

If a student must cross a roadway to board a bus, s/he must wait for the bus to come to a stop and then walk in front of the bus in order to board.

Things a Student Cannot Bring on a Bus:

	A.	glass containers of any kind
	B.	sharp objects
	C.	balls
	D.	bats
	E.	roller skates
	F.	skateboards
	G.	cutting instruments of any kind
	H.	any large or bulky item that interferes with proper seating of students (examples: large musical instruments or athletic equipment)
	I.	any animal
	J.	batons, drum sticks, tennis rackets (unless in proper carrying case)
	K.	or any other item prohibited elsewhere in the Code of Student Conduct

Rules While on the Bus

The bus driver is in charge and the student must obey the driver at all times. The student must tell the bus driver his/her correct name when asked. The bus driver and school will keep a seating chart. The student can be disciplined if s/he does not follow all District and school rules and the following special rules:

	A.	sit in the student's assigned seat and use the seat belt if available
	B.	stay seated at all times while the bus is in motion
	C.	do not put any part of a student's body outside the bus windows
	D.	do not distract the driver with loud conversation or noises
	E.	do not eat or drink on the bus
	F.	maintain absolute silence at all times when the overhead dome lights are on for railroad crossings
	G.	do not throw any items on the bus or out of the bus windows
	H.	do not mark, cut or damage bus seats or the bus itself
	I.	do not display signs from the bus
	J.	do not use obscene language or gestures

Discipline if a Student Does Not Follow the Rules

The School Board believes that the student and his/her fellow students, as well as the bus driver, should be able to ride safely on school buses. Therefore if a student misbehaves, s/he may be removed from the bus.

If a student commits minor infractions, the school bus driver has the authority to address his/her behavior.

If a student causes repeated problems on the bus by doing something the bus driver considers a more serious rule violation, the bus driver will report the student to the school office. The bus driver will give the school a written referral about what the student did.

School administrators can take any of the following disciplinary steps against a student for misbehaving at a bus stop or on a bus, and will notify the student's parents, on an approved form, when they take any of these steps:

	A.	Warn the student that his/her behavior is not allowed and if repeated, may result in further discipline as well as suspension of his/her bus riding privilege.
	B.	Discipline the student the same as if s/he had misbehaved at school (detention, ABC room, Saturday school, suspension, expulsion, etc).
	C.	Suspend the student from riding the bus. The student can be suspended for up to ten (10) days at a time.
	D.	Expel the student from riding a school bus if previous discipline has not worked or if s/he commits a serious offense. The process by which a student is expelled from riding the bus is the same as the process for being expelled from school. The principal makes a recommendation to the Superintendent, who then recommends it to the Board. If fewer than thirty (30) school days remain in the semester when the Board considers the issue then the expulsion will include the remainder of the current semester as well as the designated semesters of expulsion.
		Even if a student transfers to a new school, s/he will be held responsible for any previous incidents of bus misconduct from your previous school.
	E.	Appeal of Bus Suspension
		A student's parent may appeal a bus suspension by calling the school principal or assistant principal. The parent must come to the school and have a conference with a school administrator and a representative from the transportation department as part of the appeal. The student may be permitted to ride a bus pending the outcome of his/her bus suspension appeal as long as s/he behaves. If expulsion has been recommended, a student cannot ride a bus until the Board rules on his/her expulsion.
		If a student engages in violent or very unsafe behavior while riding the bus, the school shall additionally suspend his/her bus riding privileges until the school can hold a conference with the student's parent. The school will then determine whether to take additional disciplinary steps, including bus expulsion, and whether to impose further rules for the student's return to bus riding.

10 - DISCIPLINARY ACTION

The use of corporal punishment is prohibited. However, school personnel may use reasonable force to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment. Any use of reasonable force shall be in accordance with School Board policy and State Board of Education rule. The prohibition against the use of corporal punishment also extends to parents or guardians on school grounds. The following types of discipline may be used, as well as those found in the school discipline plan at each school.

Detention

A student can receive a detention either before school or after school. The school will give the student's parent twenty-four (24) hours notice before s/he serves the detention. For elementary and middle school students, the administrator must contact the student's parent and have a conversation with the student's parent before the student serves the detention. For high school students, the administrator must make an effort to contact the student's parent by telephone. If the administrator is unable to contact the student's parent by telephone, the student will still be required to serve the detention. The administrator must document that an attempt to contact the student's parent was made. The student's parent is responsible for the student's transportation when s/he has detention.

In-School Suspension

A student can be assigned and sent to designated rooms or programs (examples: IC, ABC) in his/her school during the school day. A student will receive full credit for class work completed while in the assigned room or program and his/her absence will be a Code 6.

Student Work Assignments

If the student's parent and a school administrator agree, the administrator can assign the student to a work detail at the school for up to ten (10) hours for each offense. The principal will decide who will supervise the student's work.

Saturday School

A student can be sent to Saturday School if an administrator has contacted the student's parent and had a conversation with them at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance.

Removal from Class

A teacher may require that a student be removed from class if it has been documented that his/her behavior has seriously disrupted the teaching or learning in the classroom. If a student is removed from a class the principal may place the student in another appropriate classroom, in-school suspension, an alternative education program, or the principal may recommend the student for suspension or expulsion.

A student cannot be returned to that teacher’s classroom unless the teacher consents or a school-based placement review committee has determined that doing so is the best or only available alternative. A decision on whether to return a student to the classroom must be made by the teacher or the committee within (5) days of the removal.

Parent Shadows Student

With reasonable notice, and if the principal and the parent agree, the parent will attend classes with a student for a day or specific period of time.

Out-of-School Suspension

A student can be suspended from school for up to ten (10) days at a time. If a student is suspended s/he cannot be on school grounds or attend any school activities. The administrator may consider the following before deciding to suspend a student:

	A.	has the student been sent to the administrator at least once before?
	B.	has the student's parent been told that his/her behavior is a problem and that s/he may be suspended?
	C.	has the student been referred to his/her guidance counselor?
	D.	has the student been given a work assignment before?
	E.	has the student been referred to an outside agency for assistance?

There are circumstances under which the administration will suspend a student on the first offense.

Transfer

A student may be transferred to another school, including an alternative school (such as Pinellas Secondary, TELESCHOOL, adult school, etc.). The principal must recommend the student's transfer in writing to the Director of School Operations for the student's area and provide the student's parent with a copy of the recommendation. The student's parent may appeal a transfer to the Director of School Operations within five (5) days of being notified of the transfer recommendation. The Director of School Operations decides whether the student will be transferred. If the student's parent disagrees with the Director’s decision, they may appeal it to the Region Associate Superintendent.

Disciplinary Reassignment

If the principal determines that a student has done something wrong that requires removal from the regular school program, s/he will be suspended for ten (10) school days and then sent to an alternative school.

	Q.	How long does a student have to attend the alternative program?
	A.	For one (1), two (2), or three (3) semesters. If a student does not behave or does not do his/her work at the alternative school, s/he may have to stay there even longer. Students may be offered the opportunity to enter into an early workback agreement if there are extenuating circumstances.
	Q.	What if a student gets reassigned a second time?
	A.	If the student is a general education student, s/he will be reassigned for one (1), two (2), or three (3) semesters. Most second reassignments will be to TELESCHOOL. If a student is an ESE student s/he may be returned to an appropriate alternative school.
	Q.	Can a student go back and visit his/her regular school or other schools while s/he is reassigned to an alternative school?
	A.	No. A student cannot go back to his/her school, or visit any other school, or be on any property leased or owned by the Board. A student cannot attend any school activity (sports events, graduation, performances, banquets, etc.), even as a spectator without permission from the Director of School Operations.
	Q.	What if a student is reassigned to attend an alternative school for the last semester of his/her senior year?
	A.	If a student is reassigned to attend an alternative school during the last semester of school before s/he graduates, the following rule applies:
		The student's parent may appeal to a District Review Committee to ask for permission to participate in the student's regular school’s graduation ceremony. The Committee will consider the following factors:

		1.	the nature of the offense
		2.	the student’s discipline history
		3.	the student’s performance, attendance, and discipline record in the alternative program
		4.	other factors it considers to be mitigating or aggravating

	Q.	When will the District Review Committee meet?
	A.	No later than ten (10) days before the last day of school.
	Q.	Who sits on the District Review Committee?
	A.	The District Review Committee shall consist of the Region Associate Superintendents and Directors of Operations and the President of the County Council of PTAs or a designee. Region Associate Superintendents and Directors shall not vote on an appeal involving a school from their area. The PTA representative shall also not hear an appeal from a school with which s/he is associated.
	Q.	Can a student appeal the decision of the District Review Committee to anyone?
	A.	No.
	Q.	What if a student is reassigned after the District Review Committee has met?
	A.	Then the principal will decide whether the student can attend graduation and end of the school year activities considering the same factors considered by the District Review Committee. The student cannot appeal the principal’s decision.
	Q.	Can a student appeal his/her reassignment to an alternative school?
	A.	No, a student can only appeal the ten (10) days of suspension. If the suspension is removed, the reassignment will not occur.
	Q.	How does a student appeal a suspension linked to a reassignment?
	A.	Within two (2) school days of being suspended, the student or his/her parent writes a letter to the principal explaining why the student thinks s/he should not be suspended. The student's parents may prefer to have the appeal with the principal by telephone. The principal will write to the student's parents within two (2) school days to tell them whether the student's suspension is being upheld.
		If the principal upholds a student's suspension, s/he or his/her parents may write a letter to the Director of School Operations appealing the suspension within two (2) school days of receiving the principal’s decision. The Director will review the facts of the case and determine whether the student was given due process. The Director will not reinvestigate the incident. The student cannot appeal the Director’s decision.
	Q.	What does a student do about class work during the ten (10) day suspension before s/he begins to attend the alternative school?
	A.	Your withdrawal grade will be established at the time of reassignment from the regular school. The alternative school staff will assign all work after that time.
	Q.	What if a student is reassigned at the end of the semester during high school—how does that affect his/her classes?
	A.	If a student's suspension begins fifteen (15) days or less before the end of the semester, then the regular school staff will supply the student's regular class work, and they will also supply review and testing material and arrange for the student to take his/her exams. In addition, if there are less than thirty (30) school days left in a semester then the period of reassignment will include the remainder of the current semester in addition to the designated semesters of reassignment.

Expulsion

An expulsion means that a student cannot attend any District school except as allowed by the Board. If a student is serving an expulsion during the last semester of his/her senior year, s/he is not allowed to participate in his/her home school graduation ceremony. If a student commits an offense that is considered exceedingly serious, (a student causes critical human injury, extensive property damage, or excessive school disruption) the Board may decide not to allow the student to attend any school, including TELESCHOOL. In this instance referrals to community resources will be made.

	Q.	Can a student go back and visit his/her regular school or other schools while s/he is expelled?
	A.	No. A student cannot go back to his/her school, or visit any other school, or be on any property leased or owned by the Board. A student cannot attend any school activity (sports events, graduation, performances, banquets, etc.).

	Q.	May a student attend other schools or programs that are not run by the District during the expulsion?
	A.	Yes, a student can attend local Juvenile Services Programs, PACE, Urban League, or other such programs, but acceptance is entirely up to that program’s staff. Other public schools and most private schools will not allow a student to enroll during the expulsion period.

11 - DISCIPLINE FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

Students with disabilities are expected to comply with the Code of Student Conduct and school rules just like any other student. If a student violates the Code of Student Conduct or school rules, s/he is generally subject to discipline just like any other student. However, there are some special rules dealing with suspensions and expulsions. Common questions regarding suspensions and expulsions of students with disabilities are answered below.

	Q.	How are in-school suspensions handled?
	A.	If a student with a disability receives an in-school suspension, the student's Individual Educational Plan (IEP) will continue to be in force. An in-school suspension is not considered a change in placement.
	Q.	Can a student with a disability receive an out-of-school suspension (defined as a removal from all schools without IEP services)?
	A.	Yes, however, a student with a disability may not be suspended out of school without IEP services for more than ten (10) cumulative days in a school year because students with disabilities are entitled to IEP services after the 10^th day of removal without services.
	Q.	Can a principal use other forms of in-school discipline on a student with a disability?
	A.	A principal may use any other form of in-school discipline when dealing with a student with a disability who has violated the Code of Student Conduct or a school rule. These can include detentions, in-school suspension, tobacco education, or Saturday school. The student must be provided with his/her IEP services in those settings.
	Q.	What happens when a student with a disability reaches five (5) days of out-of-school suspension, or displays a pattern of behavior that impedes their learning or the learning of others?
	A.	School personnel who are familiar with the student and his/her IEP will meet with the parents as the IEP team and try to find out why the student is misbehaving and develop what is called a Functional Behavioral Assessment/Problem Solving Worksheet. In addition, a plan on how to deal with the student's misconduct will be developed and implemented. The team will also determine if the student's disability is causing the misconduct and whether there needs to be any changes to the IEP.
	Q.	Can a student with a disability receive a disciplinary reassignment to an alternative school?
	A.	A student with a disability may be reassigned to an alternative school because of the student's misconduct so long as the student’s IEP can be implemented at the alternative school. Before reassignment to the alternative school, a team consisting of the parents and school personnel familiar with the student must meet and develop the Functional Behavioral Assessment/Problem Solving Worksheet and the plan on how to deal with the student's misconduct. The team must also determine if the student's disability is causing the misconduct. Such a reassignment to an alternative program may or may not be a change in placement. If it is a change in placement, then all of the procedural safeguards for students with disabilities will be followed as required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Federal law providing for the education of students with disabilities.
	Q.	May a student with a disability be expelled?
	A.	Yes, so long as the IEP services are provided. Because students with disabilities are entitled to receive the educational services provided for in their IEP during any expulsion, they must receive a disciplinary reassignment to an alternative school or other placement where their IEP can be implemented, rather than receiving a true expulsion without any services.
	Q.	May a student with a disability be suspended from the bus?
	A.	Students with disabilities may be suspended from the bus according to the rules listed below. During the suspension from the bus, it is the student's responsibility to obtain transportation to school. If the student is unable to obtain transportation during the suspension from the bus, the bus suspension days will be considered out-of-school suspension days. Principals may use other forms of discipline instead of suspension from the bus.
	Q.	What happens when a student with a disability reaches five (5) bus suspension days during the year?
	A.	The team consisting of the parents and educators familiar with the student will meet and develop a plan to correct the misbehavior on the bus. That plan will be known as the Bus Intervention Plan. The team may develop a Functional Behavioral Assessment/Problem Solving Worksheet and will also consider any changes needed in the IEP.
	Q.	What happens when a student with a disability reaches ten (10) bus suspension days during the year?
	A.	The team will meet to review the Bus Intervention Plan and develop or review the Functional Behavioral Assessment/Problem Solving Worksheet. The team will also determine whether the misconduct on the bus is caused by the student's disability and whether any changes are needed in the IEP.
	Q.	What if transportation is a related service identified in the IEP?
	A.	If transportation is a related service identified in the student's IEP, and expulsion from the bus is recommended, then transportation alternatives will be provided for the student.
	Q.	What about misconduct involving drugs and weapons?
	A.	School personnel can place a student with a disability in an interim alternative educational setting, such as an alternative school, for forty-five (45) calendar days if the student violates certain school rules regarding drugs or weapons, regardless of whether the misconduct was caused by the student’s disability. The student will continue to receive the IEP services during this time.

12 - SUSPENSION/EXPULSION

HOW A STUDENT MAY BE SUSPENDED OR EXPELLED FROM SCHOOL

In General

A student has a right to attend school and have an opportunity to learn. A student can lose that right to attend school if s/he violates the Code of Student Conduct or a school rule. A student loses the right to attend school by being suspended or expelled. During the period of suspension or expulsion, a student may not enter upon District property or attend any District or school sponsored activity or event without the permission of an administrator.

Suspension

	Q.	Who can suspend a student?
	A.	The principal or someone designated by the principal (such as an assistant principal) can suspend a student.
	Q.	How long can a student be suspended?
	A.	A student can be suspended from school for one (1) school day or up to ten (10) school days.
	Q.	What happens before a suspension?
	A.	The principal or assistant principal becomes aware that a student has broken a rule in the Code of Student Conduct or a school rule. S/He will investigate by talking to students, teachers, or others who may know something about what happened. Even if the student is one (1) of the students who broke the rule, the principal or assistant principal may talk to the student as part of the investigation. After talking to people who were involved or witnesses, the principal or assistant principal will determine who s/he thinks broke a rule.
	Q.	What if the principal or assistant principal determines that a student broke a rule?
	A.	As soon as possible the principal or assistant principal will talk to the student. The administrator will tell the student that s/he has broken a rule in the Code of Student Conduct or a school rule. The student also will be given something in writing, like a discipline referral, that tells the student the same thing. A student will then be told why the administrator thinks that s/he has broken the rule. After this happens, the student should know what s/he is accused of doing and what evidence there is that supports the accusations.
	Q.	What happens next?
	A.	The student will now have an opportunity to tell the principal or assistant principal his/her side of the story. The student can ask that they talk to someone s/he thinks may know something about what happened. The student can give the principal or assistant principal a written statement to read. After listening to the student and reading anything that s/he has given them, the principal or assistant principal may talk to the people s/he told them about and anybody else that they need to contact.
		After that, the principal or assistant principal will decide if the student has broken a rule in the Code of Student Conduct or a school rule. If s/he decides that the student has broken a rule, they will then decide if the student should be suspended from school and how long the student will be suspended. The student will be told about this decision.
	Q.	Will the student's parents know?
	A.	The principal or assistant principal will try to telephone the student's parents and let them know about the suspension. If they cannot reach the student's parents by telephone, then they will write down how many times they tried and what happened. The student's parents will be mailed a letter titled Written Notice of Suspension within twenty-four (24) hours of the decision. The student will be given a copy of that letter. If the student or his/her parents claim that s/he did not receive the letter, it will not change the suspension. The student will be given another copy of the letter if s/he requests one.
	Q.	How can a student appeal a suspension?
	A.	If the student's parents want to appeal the suspension, they should notify the principal in writing before the student's suspension is over. When the principal receives the notice from the student's parents that they wish to appeal, s/he will offer to arrange a conference with the student's parents. The student's parents may prefer to discuss their appeal with the principal by telephone. If the student's parents do not notify the principal in writing before the end of the student's suspension that they want to appeal, the suspension is final.
	Q.	What happens at the conference?
	A.	The student's parents (and the student if s/he is present) will discuss with the principal what has occurred. The principal will go over the incident that led to the suspension and review the evidence supporting the suspension. The principal also will review the process that was followed leading up to the decision to suspend the student. This will include a review of how the student was told about the accusations and the evidence against the student and how the student was allowed an opportunity to tell his/her side of the story.
		If the student or his/her parents believe that the school did not follow all of the requirements for suspending the student, the student must tell the principal exactly what was not done that the student believes should have been done. For example, if the assistant principal did not give the student something in writing that told the student what s/he was accused of doing, the student must tell the principal that at this conference or the student cannot later complain about not being advised in writing of the accusations against the student.
		If the principal agrees with the student's parents that one (1) or more requirements for suspending the student were overlooked, the principal can then comply with those requirements at the conference or can start the suspension process from the beginning and go through it again.

If there are witnesses who had not been interviewed prior to the suspension, whom the student thinks may have information about the incident, then the student should inform the principal of the names of those witnesses at this conference. The principal may decide to interview those witnesses before making his/her final decision or the principal may believe that s/he has enough information already to make a final decision.

	Q.	When will the principal decide the appeal?
	A.	The principal will provide the student and his/her parents a written decision within five (5) school days of the conference.
	Q.	Is the student suspended during the appeal?
	A.	The student will continue to serve the suspension until a final decision is made after all appeals.
	Q.	What if the suspension was not appropriate?
	A.	Any record of the suspension will be taken out of the student's records and the student will be given the opportunity to make up all schoolwork that s/he missed, without penalty.
	Q.	Can the student appeal the principal's decision?
	A.	The student may appeal the principal's decision to the Director of School Operations or a person designated by the Director of School Operations. To appeal to the Director of School Operations the student must notify him/her in writing within five (5) school days of the date of the principal's final decision.
	Q.	What will be reviewed on this appeal?
	A.	This appeal only concerns whether or not the proper procedures were followed in making the final decision to suspend the student. There will be no further investigation or interviews with witnesses about the incident, although the facts of the case will be reviewed.
		If the proper procedures were not followed, then the suspension will be sent back to the principal to follow the proper procedures and decide on whether or not to suspend the student. If, after following the proper procedures, the principal decides that the student should not be suspended, any record of the suspension will be taken out of the student's records and s/he will be given the opportunity to make up all schoolwork that s/he missed, without penalty.

Expulsion

	Q.	Who can expel a student?
	A.	Only the Board can expel a student based upon a recommendation by the Superintendent. The Superintendent will make a recommendation for expulsion only after receiving a recommendation from the principal. The principal will make such a recommendation for expulsion only after having suspended the student for ten (10) school days. The principal's recommendation will contain a detailed explanation of the incident and the student's record of attendance, academics, and discipline.
	Q.	Will a student's parents be notified?
	A.	The student and his/her parents will be notified in writing if the Superintendent recommends that the Board expel a student. The allegations against the student will be explained. The student will also be told that s/he can request a hearing.
	Q.	What if the student's parents want to request a hearing?
	A.	The parents should submit a written request for a hearing to the Office of General Counsel. After the parents request a hearing, the Superintendent will assign the student to an appropriate school program other than his/her regular school.
	Q.	What if the student's parents do not request a hearing?
	A.	If the parents do not ask for a hearing, the charges are considered to be true. The student and his/her parents may come to the Board meeting to talk about the length of the expulsion.
	Q.	Who conducts the hearing?
	A.	A local attorney who is a volunteer will preside over the hearing. The attorney is an impartial hearing officer who is not an employee of the School District.
	Q.	When will the hearing take place?
	A.	The Superintendent’s attorney will schedule the hearing and notify the student and his/her parents in writing of the date, time, and place of the hearing. The student will receive this notification at least two (2) weeks before the hearing takes place.
	Q.	Can a student have an attorney at the hearing?
	A.	The student is entitled to have an attorney or other representative provide him/her with legal representation. Any fees for such representation will be the student's parents' responsibility.
	Q.	What happens at the hearing?
	A.	The Superintendent's attorney will present witnesses and documents to support the allegations to the impartial hearing officer. The parents or attorney will have an opportunity to cross-examine the witnesses and to present witnesses and evidence on the student's behalf.
	Q.	Will there be a record of the hearing?
	A.	The Board will provide a certified court reporter for the hearing. The court reporter will take down everything that is said at the hearing. If the student's parent wants a full or partial transcript of the hearing, they can pay the court reporter to provide one for them. The court reporter may require payment in advance.
	Q.	What happens after the hearing?
	A.	The impartial hearing officer will make a decision based upon the evidence presented at the hearing. S/He will decide what the facts are and make a recommendation in writing to the Board. A copy of that recommendation will be provided to the student, his/her parents, and the Superintendent’s attorney.
	Q.	Who makes the final decision?
	A.	The Board will make the final decision on whether or not the student should be expelled and if so, for how long. The student, his/her parents, and their attorney will have an opportunity to appear before the Board in private to discuss the recommendation of the impartial hearing officer. The parents may request to meet in public to discuss the recommendation with the Board.
	Q.	How long can the Board expel a student?
	A.	A student can be expelled for the remainder of the current school year and one (1) additional school year. Usually the length of the expulsion is specified in the number of semesters. If there are fewer than thirty (30) school days left in the current semester when the student's suspension begins, the student's will stay out the rest of that semester plus the designated semesters of expulsion. A student who is serving an expulsion during last semester of his/her senior year may not participate in the graduation ceremony.
	Q.	Can a student appeal the Board's decision to expel?
	A.	A student can appeal the Board's decision to the District Court of Appeal in Tampa. The student must do so within thirty (30) days of the date of the Board's order expelling the student.

HOW CAN A STUDENT SOLVE PROBLEMS OTHER THAN SUSPENSIONS OR EXPULSIONS (GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE)

If a student has a problem with a teacher or an administrator or disagree with their decision on some matter other than suspensions or expulsions, students are encouraged to attempt to solve the problem directly with the teacher or administrator. This includes any problems that students may have in being discriminated against based upon the student's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, physical attributes, personal attributes or social and family background.

(a) Each student, regardless of race, color, creed or religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, disability or sexual orientation, has the right to an opportunity for an education.

(b) Each student has the right to learn, to dissent, to petition, to participate in school programs and activities and the rights of freedom of expression and publication, assembly and privacy. However, the exercise of these rights shall be consistent with this code, and shall not infringe on the rights of others and may not interfere with the orderly operation of a school or classroom.

(c) Each student has the right to freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures. A student, a student’s locker and other possessions may be searched if there is reasonable cause to believe that the student has drugs, weapons, contraband or items not permitted on campus. Personnel of the school system shall not conduct searches of students or their property, including vehicles that violate constitutional law.
(d) Sororities and Fraternities: Sororities, fraternities, and secret societies are prohibited in the public schools of Pinellas County. Such organizations shall not be recognized by the school in any way. Any attempt to hold any part of initiations to such organizations on the school premises at any time is prohibited. All employees of the Board shall be particularly directed and instructed not to sponsor or give any assistance to such organizations, and further instructed to be constantly on the alert to keep such types of organizations out of the schools.

(f) Each student has certain rights when being interviewed or questioned by police or pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrators during criminal or administrative investigations.

1. When a student who is a minor is a subject in a criminal investigation that could lead to arrest or criminal charges, the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) shall make a diligent effort to contact the student’s parent before law enforcement officers question the student. The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) shall document these efforts.

2. When a student is the subject in an administrative investigation, school officials shall be permitted to conduct necessary interviews.

3. When a student is not the subject in a criminal or administrative investigation but is being interviewed as a victim or a witness, the investigator, pursuant to Chapter 39, Florida Statutes will determine who may be present during the interview.

(g) Each student has certain rights when a police officer or an identified representative of the court wishes to remove a student from school premises.

1. Should the officer request to take the student out of the school, it shall only be done with the consent of the student or the consent of the student's parent/guardian if the student is under the age of eighteen (18), or with a warrant or a subpoena requiring the student to be a witness. If the officer desires to make an arrest, either with or without an arrest warrant, he/she shall be allowed to do so without objection by the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator or teacher in charge. If a student under the age of eighteen (18) is removed by an officer, the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator shall make a diligent effort to notify the parents prior to the student's removal from the school premises or as soon thereafter as possible. The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator shall document those efforts.

2. If a student is removed from school by an officer under the aforementioned conditions, a Release Order shall be signed. The Release Order shall be signed in triplicate, with the original being filed in the office of the superintendent (or designee), a copy to the parents, and a copy retained in the school files.

(h) Any student who deliberately damages school board property is responsible for prompt reimbursement to the School Board. Failure to complete payment may lead to legal action.

1. Each student has the responsibility to dress appropriately for the school environment. Apparel that disrupts educational activities and processes of the school will result in the removal of the student from the regular school environment until acceptable apparel can be secured for the student. The administration will be the final judge about whether a student’s clothing is appropriate for school or whether it will create an environmental climate that is distracting to learning. Administrators, faculty, and staff members will enforce the dress code. All dress and grooming shall conform to health and safety or special program requirements, and all such requirements shall be enforced. Specialized programs may call for more specific dress and grooming requirements which shall be set forth in the program description. The following minimum standards of dress and grooming shall apply to all students in the postsecondary/workforce education schools of Pinellas County:

a. All shirts and blouses must cover midriff, back, sides, and all undergarments including bra straps at all times.

b. Shorts, skirts, divided skirts, dresses and culottes are allowed. They must be mid-thigh length or longer.

c. All trousers, pants, or shorts must totally cover undergarments including boxer shorts.

d. All clothing, jewelry, or tattoos shall be free of the following: profanity, violent images, violent wording or suggestions; sexually suggestive phrases or images; gang-related symbols; alcohol, tobacco, drugs, or advertisements for such products.

e. Safe and appropriate footwear must be worn. Inappropriate footwear includes, but is not limited to, roller skates, skate shoes, and bedroom slippers. Individual programs may require specialize footwear such as, steel-toed shoes.

f. Form-fitting leotard/spandex type clothing (including sport bras) of any fabric is not allowed unless covered by proper outer garments.

g. See-through or mesh fabric clothing may only be worn over clothing meeting these minimum requirements.

h. Clothing must be the appropriate size with the waist of the garment worn at the student’s waist.

i. Clothing not properly buttoned, zipped, fastened, or with inappropriate holes or tears shall not be worn.

j. Clothing traditionally designed as undergarments or sleepwear and footwear traditionally designed as sleepwear shall not be worn as outer garments.

k. Sunglasses may not be worn inside school buildings unless required by a physician or authorized by school administration (except as required in certain vocational programs).

l. Specific uniforms, safety goggles/devices or protective clothing shall be worn as required by individual programs.

Note: Adult/community school students while attending classes on the campus of a Pinellas County high school will be required to adhere to the high school dress code.

(a) Each student enrolled in Pinellas County Schools is required to have regular and punctual attendance. Each student is also required to complete all work assigned in each course in which the student is enrolled.

(b) Attendance requirements may vary by individual programs. See the Pinellas Technical Education Centers (pTEC) Catalog for current program attendance requirements. Failure to adhere to attendance requirements may adversely affect eligibility for financial aid.

(c) pTEC students must use the automated time clock system to clock in and out to document actual hours of attendance in the program. Failure to use the automated time clock system may result in reduction of grade, loss of financial assistance, and/or disciplinary action.

(d) Loitering about the campus is not permitted. Students attending pTEC shall wear proper identification badges at all times. Each student shall be in class as scheduled. Late arrivals must report immediately to their class location. A student needing to leave before class is over must receive permission from his instructor. pTEC students needing to leave before class is over must notify the instructor, clock out and leave the campus immediately.

(e) Each student under the age of eighteen (18) shall have in the school records the name and address of a parent/guardian.

(a) Any conduct by a student which is injurious to others, poses a threat to the health or safety of persons or property, or conduct, which disrupts or interferes with the education of himself or other students shall result in disciplinary action. Where appropriate, misconduct may result in criminal penalties being imposed. The following actions, or the attempts to commit them, shall be considered SERIOUS MISCONDUCT and may warrant suspension/dismissal without consideration of alternative punishment.

2. Falsifying or altering records (for example, computer records or attendance notes)

28. Possession of common objects that could hurt someone (such as; self-defense chemical spray, pocketknives with a blade of four inches or shorter).

33. The Use of Electronic Items such as tape player/recorders, CD players, radios, cameras, cellular phones (including the camera that may be part of the phone), camcorders, televisions, MP3 players, iPods, pagers, or beepers is not permitted in the classroom without instructor permission. If students are in possession of these electronic items, they are to be kept turned off or on mute in the classroom, unless they are permitted for use in connection with the program of instruction. School staff is not responsible if these items are stolen, lost, or broken.

(a) Tobacco: Student use of tobacco products (including, but not limited to cigarettes, pipes, cigars, snuff and chewing tobacco) in school or on school property (including buses), at a bus stop, or at a school activity is prohibited. Students observed smoking are subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal and may be referred to law enforcement.

a. Illegal Drugs are defined to include: drugs for which the student does not have a valid prescription, alcohol or intoxicating beverages, or any illegal or harmful substances including non-prescription drugs, inhalants, or items used in a harmful or inappropriate manner. The use of any drug when such use is unlawful, and use of any drug when such use is detrimental to the user or to others but is not unlawful is prohibited.

a. Drug and alcohol offenses shall be cumulative from year to year and school to school within the Pinellas County School System. Additionally, referral shall be made to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

a. The use of, or possession of, or being under the influence of illegal drugs, materials, substances, drug paraphernalia or alcoholic beverages on school property at any time, (including buses) or at school functions, or prior to arriving at school or at a school function shall be considered prohibited conduct. This includes, but is not limited to, the bringing of such items to school for another person or having such items on one's person or one's personal effects or placing such items in a locker, desk, or other hiding place. Students who arrive at school or at a school function in a vehicle in which there are illegal drugs or alcohol are considered to be in possession of that substance if the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator determines, based upon the evidence, that the student knew there were illegal drugs or alcohol present. Students at a school function who are in a specific area, including, but not limited to a hotel room, where there are illegal drugs or alcohol may be considered to be in possession of that substance if it is determined after investigation that the student knew there were illegal drugs or alcohol present and chose to remain in that area. Students are prohibited from selling, purchasing, distributing, receiving or negotiating the sale, purchase, distribution or receipt of illegal drugs or alcohol as defined in the preceding section. The sale of, negotiations for sale of, or distribution of a prescription drug for which the student has a valid prescription to another student is also forbidden. Distribution is the transfer of the substance from one person to another.

a. A student who is found to have been in violation of the drug and alcohol prohibition shall be dismissed. Any case of attempted suicide including those involving illegal substances will be treated as a mental health issue and a mental health assessment will be conducted prior to determining consequences.

a. Reentry after dismissal will not be allowed until evidence of successful completion of an approved drug or alcohol assessment is provided.

6. Felony Conviction: Pursuant to law, if a student is adjudicated guilty or delinquent for the unlawful possession or sale of any controlled substance under Chapter 893, Florida Statutes, the student may be dismissed.

(c) Bombs and Bomb Threats: Any student involved in the making, of a bomb or planning the use of a bomb (including the use of a facsimile bomb) shall be dismissed. Additionally, any student involved in making or planning a bomb threat that is directed at a person or persons or is in written form (including computer communications), or a bomb threat that significantly disrupts the educational process, or a false report as defined in Florida Statutes 790.162 and 790.163, shall be dismissed and referred to law enforcement for prosecution.

1. Florida Statutes 790.162 “It is unlawful for any person to threaten to throw, project, place, or discharge any destructive device with intent to do bodily harm to any person or with intent to do damage to any property of any person…..”

2. Florida Statutes 790.163 “It is unlawful for any person to make a false report, with intent to deceive, mislead, or otherwise misinform any person, concerning the placing or planting of any bomb, dynamite, or other deadly explosive;…..”

(d) Possession of Guns and Weapons: When a student has been in possession of

1. a loaded or unloaded gun capable of discharging a projectile, but not necessarily operable at the time of confiscation, or

2. a weapon, meaning any dirk (dagger), metallic knuckles, slungshot (a small mass of metal, or similar material fixed on a flexible handle or strap), billie, tear gas gun, chemical weapon or device, or other deadly weapon, or

3. a dangerous object (including but not limited to box cutters) brought with the intent of doing harm to others, including bringing an object for self-defense.

…the student shall be dismissed. This prohibition against possession of guns or weapons on school board property includes the possession of a gun or weapon at school sponsored functions, on a school bus or at a bus stop, and the storing of such in a school facility or on school board property. The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) may give written permission to possess a gun or weapon when the gun or weapon is required by the curriculum. A student in a vehicle in which there is a gun or weapon on school board property or at a school activity may be considered to be in possession of that gun or weapon if it is determined by the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee), based upon evidence that the student knew of the presence of the gun or weapon.

1. A student who is formally charged (has a petition filed) by the proper prosecuting attorney with committing a felony, or with a delinquent act which would be a felony if committed by an adult, including but not limited to those listed below, as a result of conduct off of school grounds, shall be dismissed, if, after affording the student due process, the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator finds that the incident has an adverse impact on the educational program, discipline, or welfare of the school:

(a) Types of Disciplinary Action Permitted: While the following types of disciplinary action may be considered, there is no intent that the listing implies that any sequence must be followed. It is expected that the school discipline plan will be followed whenever possible.

1. Probation: A student may be placed on disciplinary probation for a period of time not to exceed one year.

2. Suspension: A student may be suspended from school or class for up to ten (10) days for any one offense. While on suspension, the student is not permitted to return to any campus or attend any school activities. Except in cases in which the safety of others is involved, or the orderly operation of the school is threatened, the following alternatives may be considered prior to suspending a student:

a. The student may be placed on a disciplinary probation contract, the breach of which may lead to suspension.

b. The student may be referred to the Student Services Department for counseling.

3. Dismissal: In most cases, dismissal will mean that a student is excluded from all public school programs in Pinellas County. Dismissed students of appropriate age may apply to local Juvenile Services Programs (J.S.P.), Urban League, or Catalyst, but acceptance is entirely up to that program's staff based upon their dropout prevention criteria. Instances involving exceptional education students will be handled according to law. A student shall be withdrawn for:

b. physical attack resulting in serious injury or while using a weapon, an act of unprovoked violence regardless of the severity of the injury to the victim.

c. an act of unprovoked violence regardless of the severity of the injury to the victim,

d. making, of a bomb or planning the use of a bomb (including the use of a facsimile bomb). Additionally, any student involved in making or planning a bomb threat that is directed at a person or persons or is in written form (including computer communications), or a bomb threat that significantly disrupts the educational process, or a false report as defined in Florida Statutes 790.162 and 790.163 (see paragraph (4)(c) 1. and 2.), shall be recommended for dismissal.

In order to ensure that each student receives fair treatment consistent with the fundamental requirements of due process, student suspensions and dismissals shall be made in accordance with the following procedures.

1. Hearing required: The hearing shall consist of an informal interview between the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee), and the student. The student shall be informed orally and in writing of the charges and an explanation of the evidence against him. The student shall be allowed to give a personal version of the incident and the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) hearing the case shall decide whether the charges against the student have been sustained. The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) shall then determine whether to suspend the student if such is the appropriate disciplinary action.

2. Time of Hearing and Imposition of Sanction: The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) may suspend a student for any one offense for a period of time up to and including ten (10) school days. The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) shall hold a hearing immediately after the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) becomes aware of the violation by or the charge against the student. In an emergency situation, the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) shall have the authority to suspend the student on the basis of facts known to the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee); and the hearing shall be held within a reasonable time after the imposition of the suspension.

3. Notice of Suspension to Students: The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) shall deliver by hand or shall mail a copy of the written notice of the suspension to the student within twenty-four (24) hours of the suspension. Failure of the student to receive a formal written notice of the suspension shall not affect the validity of the suspension or any other proceeding herein.

4. Notice of Suspension to Parents of Minors: After suspending a minor, the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) shall immediately attempt to notify the parent(s) by telephone and shall document the fact of such notice or the diligent effort to give such notice. The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator (or designee) shall also complete the form "Written Notice of Suspension" and shall, if possible, deliver by hand a copy of it to the minor and shall mail a copy of the written notification of the suspension to the parent(s)/legal guardian within twenty-four (24) hours of the suspension. Failure of the student or parent(s) to receive a formal written notification of the suspension shall not affect the validity of the suspension or any other proceeding herein.

5. Appeal of Suspension: If a student or the parent of a minor wishes to appeal the due process procedures implemented in the suspension process, the appeal shall be submitted to the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator, in writing, prior to the termination date of the suspension. The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator shall arrange for a conference with the student or parent. The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator shall notify the student or parent(s) in writing of his or her final decision within five (5) days of the hearing of the appeal. In the letter the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator shall advise the student or parent(s) of the following:

a. The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator's decision as to whether the student was provided due process in the suspension procedure.

b. If due process was not provided it shall be provided at that time by the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator. If after providing due process the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator determines that the suspension was not appropriate, the student's record shall be expunged of the suspension and the student shall be given the opportunity to make up all work without penalty.

d. The student may initiate an appeal in writing to the Chief Operating Officer of pTEC or the Director of Workforce Education or designee within five (5) school days of the date of the previous decision. This is the last appeal step for a student's out-of-school suspension. This step of appeal will involve only a review to see if the student received appropriate due process. There will be no reinvestigation of the incident.

(b) Dismissal: Statutory Authority for dismissal is provided in 1001.42(6) and 1002.21(3), F.S.

1. Initiation of the Dismissal Process: An instructor, department chair, or administrator shall send a letter to the pTEC Campus Director or the Adult/Community School Administrator as appropriate. Such letter shall contain a detailed explanation of the charges against the student and a recommendation for dismissal. The pTEC Campus Director or the Adult/Community School Administrator makes the dismissal decision.

2. Notice to Parent(s) and Student: If the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator recommends dismissal, the student and the parents of a student, if a minor, shall be informed in writing of the decision. The student and the parent(s) of a student, if a minor, may request a hearing before the pTEC Campus Director or the Adult/Community School Administrator, who retain the final decision authority for the dismissal

a. The parent(s)/legal guardian of a minor student or the student shall, if age 18 or older, within five (5) days from the receipt of the pTEC Campus Director’s or Adult/Community School Administrator’s letter of notification of the recommendation for dismissal, notify the school board attorney in writing that a hearing is requested. For good cause shown, any procedural defect in the request for a hearing may be waived by the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator.

b. The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator shall schedule a hearing and notify the parent(s)/legal guardian of a minor student, or the student in writing of the date, time, and place of the hearing.

c. The parent(s)/legal guardian of a minor student or the student may be represented by an attorney or other representative.

d. The record shall only consist of the notice and summary of grounds; evidence received; all written statements submitted; any decision overruling objections; all matters placed on the record after an ex parte communication; the transcript, if either party has the proceeding transcribed; and any decision, order or report by the pTEC Campus Director or the Adult/Community School Administrator.

e. The pTEC Campus Director or the Adult/Community School Administrator shall make a final decision, in writing, based on the evidence presented.

(7) GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES (School Related Problems or Student Complaints Not Connected to Suspension or Dismissal):

A student has the privilege to question a decision by a school teacher or administrator. The privilege to question includes decisions perceived by the student to be discriminatory regarding any phase of educational programs, activities, application of the rules of behavior, sanctions or treatment. It is the aim of these procedures to settle a grievance at the lowest level possible. The following procedures shall be used to submit a grievance for a decision:

(a) The student shall first talk courteously to the teacher or administrator concerned at a time other than regular class time.

(b) If the student is not satisfied after talking with the teacher or administrator concerned, the student may submit an appeal, in writing, to the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator of the school to review the matter. Such an appeal shall be submitted within three (3) days of the incident.

(c) The pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator of the school shall investigate the problem and shall render a decision on whether to sustain or overrule the decision of the teacher or administrator. The decision shall be given to the student, in writing, within five (5) days from receipt of the written notice of appeal.

(d) Any appeal beyond the pTEC Campus Director or Adult/Community School Administrator of the school may be made in writing to the Chief Operating Officer of pTEC or the Director of Workforce Education (or designee) within five (5) days from receipt of the previous decision. This is the last step in the grievance procedure.

Laws Implemented: 230.24(6)(d), 230.23005, F.S., Fl. Educational Equity Act of 1984

History: New 7/24/85; Amended 7/22/87, 10/12/88, 8/8/90 (Emergency), 9/12/90, 6/24/92, 6/23/93, 6/22/94, 6/27/95, 8/14/96, 9/9/97, 6/30/98, 7/27/99, 6/13/00, 7/31/01, 6/4/02, 5/27/03, 8/24/04, 7/29/08

(1) Compulsory Attendance: All children who will have attained the age of six (6) years by February 1 of any school year or who are older than six (6) years of age but who have not attained the age of sixteen (16) years, except as hereinafter provided, are required to attend school regularly during the entire school term. Regular and punctual attendance is essential for highest student achievement.

(2) Maximum Compulsory Attendance Age: In accordance with section 1003.21(1)(c) a student 16 years old may withdraw from school by submitting an intent to terminate school enrollment form signed by the student and the parent or guardian. A copy of the signed form will be sent to the parent or guardian.

(3) Withdrawal of a Student Over Maximum Compulsory Attendance Age: When a student who is sixteen (16) years of age or older has been absent for ten (10) consecutive days, and the school, having documented a diligent effort through the Child Study Team, has been unable to contact the parent(s)/guardian or the student, the school may withdraw the student from the school.

(4) Married/Pregnant Students: Students who become or have become married, unmarried students who are pregnant, and students who have previously had a child outside of wedlock shall not be prohibited from attending school, and shall be entitled to the same educational instruction or its equivalent as other students, but may voluntarily be assigned to a special class or program better suited to their special needs.

(5) Regular Attendance Expected: Any student enrolled in school shall be expected to be in regular attendance even though because of age the student may not be subject to the compulsory attendance law.

(7) Kindergarten Eligibility: Any child who has attained the age of five (5) years on or before September 1 of the school year is eligible for admission to public kindergarten during that school year.

(8) First Grade Eligibility: Any child who has attained the age of six (6) years on or before September 1 of the school year and who has satisfactorily completed kindergarten will be admitted to the first grade at any time during the school year. No child will be admitted or promoted to the first grade in any public school until he has satisfactorily completed kindergarten in a public school or a nonpublic school from which the district School Board accepts transfer of academic credit or he otherwise meets the criteria for admission or transfer in a manner similar to that applicable to other grades.

(9) Out of State Transfers Into Kindergarten or First Grade: Entry into kindergarten and first grade by out-of-state transfer students who do not meet regular age requirements for admission to Florida public schools shall be in accordance with SBE Rule 6A-1.0985.

(10) All students participating in school-sponsored trips shall be counted as present for attendance purposes.

(b) A representative of the school will contact the student's home in the case of an unexcused absence from school, or an absence from school for which the reason is unknown.

(c) When a student has accrued five (5) unexcused absences or absences for which the reasons are unknown, within a calendar month, or ten (10) unexcused absences, or absences for which the reasons are unknown, within a ninety (90) calendar day period, the principal shall refer the case to the school's Child Study Team to determine if early patterns of truancy are developing.

(d) The Child Study Team will implement interventions to address the student's non-attendance as specified in section 1003.26, Florida Statutes.

(e) If all efforts to remedy the student's non-attendance have been unsuccessful, the Superintendent may file a truancy petition in the Circuit Court, pursuant to section 984.151, Florida Statutes.

Laws Implemented: 1001.41, 230.23, 1003.21, 232.02, 232.03, 322.0601 F.S.; 6A-1.043, 6A-1.044, 6A-1.0982, 6A-1.0442 SBE Rules..

History: New 7/12/50; Amended 3/15/53, 7/13/55, 5/22/57, 7/22/59, 7/12/61; Revised and Amended 7/28/65; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 8/23/78, 10/28/81, 10/13/82, 2/22/84, 9/24/86. Original ch. (10) (11) Amended and Transferred, ch.12) Transferred to 6Gx52-8.025, 5/13/87; Amended 1/11/89, 10/11/89(Emergency), 11/8/89,11/13/91, 8/11/93, 6/30/98, 4/11/00, 6/4/02, 11/11/03

The Superintendent, or designee, is authorized under the provisions of Section 450.081 (1) (b) 4.,F.S., to waive certain labor restrictions for students who qualify for such waiver as the result of a hardship based on economic necessity, family emergency or seasonal work.

The Superintendent, or designee, may waive certain labor restrictions for students who are otherwise required to observe such restrictions, consistent with the following provisions:

(l) Students seventeen (17) years of age or younger who seek a waiver of the provisions of Section 450.081, F.S ., shall apply for such waiver on a form supplied by the office of the area director of school operations. Reasons for which a student may be considered for such waiver shall be restricted to a hardship based upon economic necessity, family emergency or seasonal work.

(2) All applications shall be accompanied by a parent/ guardian's letter detailing the reasons for the student's need to work.

(3) Students applying for such waiver shall have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 1.5.

(4) Waivers shall not be issued to students for employment in areas in which such minors are otherwise prohibited under Chapter 450, F.S., by reason of being hazardous or injurious to the student's life, health, safety, morals or welfare; nor may such waiver be granted for a student under age sixteen (16) to be employed in an establishment in which alcoholic beverages are served unless a statutory exemption permits such employment without such waiver.

(5) The Superintendent, or designee, shall consult with the student's principal before rendering a decision on the application for waiver. A copy of the completed application showing the disposition thereof shall be filed in the student's cumulative folder.

(6) Students granted such waivers under these policies and procedures shall be required to maintain a minimum GPA of 1.5. The student' s failure to maintain such minimum GPA shall result in the revocation of such waiver.

4.05 ACTIVITIES AND TRIPS: CAMPS, LEAGUES AND OTHER NON-SCHOOL SPONSORED EVENTS

(1) Students or faculty who participate in camps, leagues, foreign or domestic trips or similar activities, not organized by the school district and approved by the Superintendent (or designee), shall do so at their own expense and responsibility. The Board shall not be responsible for any accident, injury or illness in connection with such described activities.

(2) The Board prohibits the principal, faculty or students from using the school name or similar name in any community athletic league, band or similar group.

(3) Board-owned property or equipment, except real property, shall not be used in connection with any athletic league, community band or similar group. However, the use of Board owned property or equipment for band camps, athletic camps, etc. may be approved by the Board, and such equipment shall be insured by the sponsoring individual or group against any loss or damages, as approved by the Superintendent or designee.

(4) In the event that an individual or group desires to sponsor a camp, league, foreign or domestic trip, or similar activity during that period when a member of the instructional staff is under contract to the Board and such individual or group desires a member of the instructional staff to attend a camp, meeting or trip, the sponsoring individual or group may request the principal of that school to release the instructional staff member for a specified time during the employee's contract period to participate in the camp, meeting or trip. However, the principal of the school may not grant permission for the member of the instructional staff to attend such a camp, meeting or trip when that staff member's presence is required for the efficient and orderly operation of the school.

History: New 7/12/50; Amended 3/15/53, 5/22/57, 7/22/59, 7/12/61, 7/28/65, 7/31/68, 11/17/71; Revised 12/18/74;

Amended 10/13/76, 12/14/77, 6/13/79, 5/14/86, 2/10/88, 5/25/88, 1/13/93, 6/8/94, 11/8/94, 7/24/96, 7/29/97, 3/24/98, 6/30/98

(a) Field trips are those school-related events for which school staff arranges transportation and ensures an appropriate number of chaperones as stated within this policy. All trips shall be subject to prudent safety precautions and conducted according to the rules established by the district and the school. Every effort should be made to schedule field trips without interrupting other school functions.

(a) Day trips to sites listed on the School Board-Approved Field Trip List must be approved by the principal at least two weeks prior to the activity.

(b) Trips to sites not listed on the above-mentioned list, or any trip lasting more than one day even if on the list, require that the “Application For Field Trip Not On the Approved List” form and a “Field Trip Information Sheet” with a detailed itinerary be approved by the principal and the Director of School Operations at least four weeks before the trip. Approval for trips must be secured before the teacher makes plans with students or parents. Overnight trips should be scheduled on weekends or non-school days if possible.

(c) Trips of more than one day must be approved by the subject supervisor before submission to the Director of School Operations.

(d) All necessary approvals must be secured before any trip-related fundraising occurs.

(e) Florida High School Activities Association (FHSAA) and Florida School Music Association (FSMA) events are governed by the rules and regulations of those organizations. For FHSAA athletic competitions and FSMA evaluation festivals the field trip forms referred to in paragraph (2)(b) are not required.

(a) All field trips must be conducted under the supervision of a certificated School Board employee.

(b) A chaperone who is not a School Board employee must be registered in the online Volunteer System as an approved volunteer before the field trip. As part of the volunteer registration process, a background check will be completed. The background check process requires a two-week prior notification. A student may not be a chaperone.

(c) All students participating in school-sponsored field trips shall be counted as present (computer code 2) for attendance purposes.

(d) No student may be excluded from a field trip because of an inability to pay the cost of admission or other related expense.

(e) All monies collected in connection with a field trip must be processed by prescribed internal auditing procedures and School Board policy.

(f) If a special invitation is extended to a group, the letter of invitation should be attached to the required form(s) for field trip approval. Letters of invitation from travel agencies are not acceptable.

(g) Chaperone ratio shall be one for every ten students unless the field trip is such that the principal or Director of School Operations require more chaperones.

(h) Field trips should be made by bus whenever possible. If using a commercial carrier, only companies on the Authorized Carriers List published by risk management shall be used.

(i) Amusement rides are not approved on a school day during school hours except as approved by the Superintendent (or designee).

(k) No drivers under eighteen (18) years of age are permitted when transportation is provided or arranged by the school district with the following exception: Students who have a valid Florida license and are at least seventeen (17) years of age may transport other students to school events on a case by case basis with the prior approval of the school administrator. The parents or guardians of students being transported in this manner must be notified that a student will be driving and must give written permission.

(m) Personnel attending field trips must log out at the school and submit Temporary Duty Elsewhere form if payment of substitute teachers is involved.

(n) No children may attend a field trip unless they are part of the group for whom the trip was arranged unless approval is given in advance, in writing, by the principal. Any costs incurred will be paid by the parent/guardian. This inclusion is discouraged.

(o) Refer to risk management’s “Guide to Field Trips, Sports, and School Activities Transportation” which includes guidelines regarding use of private vehicles.

(p) If an overnight trip includes boys and girls, there must be sufficient male and female chaperones.

(q) Students are responsible for making up any class work missed during a field trip.

(r) A list of all participating students and chaperones shall be on file with the principal.

(s) Detailed itinerary for trips of more than one day-must include time leaving, all stops for meals, all activities, returning time, lodging addresses and phone numbers. The principal, Director of School Operations, each parent and each student is to receive a copy of the itinerary.

(t) The district “Field Trip Permission” form signed by the parent or guardian must be on file before a student may participate in a field trip.

(u) Insurance documentation for all drivers must be on file before the trip, as required by the risk management department. This includes name of driver, name of insurance company, copy of driver’s current insurance card.

(v) The school shall verify insurance coverage for students when required by policy 4.10.

(w) Personnel designated by the principal to assist students in the administration of prescribed medications when on field trips shall be trained by the school nurse.

(a) Band, Orchestra and Vocal trips are subject to regular field trip guidelines as outlined in this policy. The field trip forms referred to in paragraph (2)(b) are not required for FSMA evaluation festivals.

(a) Authorized tours are those activities sponsored by the schools which have both educational and recreational value to the students. Students participation in tours must be during a time when school is not in regular session.

(b) All school-sponsored tours shall be approved by the building principal and the Superintendent, or designee, at least two (2) months in advance of the tour. The request shall include objectives, itinerary, plans, budget, and method of financing.

(c) A faculty sponsor shall accompany a school tour group and assume responsibility for the proper conduct of all students on tour. The appropriate number of adult supervisors shall be determined by the Superintendent (or designee). Tours shall be conducted according to Board policies.

(d) The faculty sponsor shall file a complete evaluation report with the building principal within one (l) week following a tour, and this report shall indicate how the educational objectives of the tour were accomplished as well as any unusual occurrences.

(e) School-sponsored tours shall not be financed with school system funds. The method of soliciting funds for tours shall be approved by the principal, in accordance with School Board policies and procedures.

(f) Each student shall obtain a written consent form duly executed by the parent or guardian, which shall be submitted to the principal prior to participating in the tour.

(g) School Board employees shall not receive compensation from travel agencies or private organizations involved with the tour, with the exception that free passage and other related expenses may be granted for supervisory duties.

(h) Travel study programs are those class and student organization activities planned cooperatively by students and faculty and shall be viewed as school-sponsored activities. Student participation shall be voluntary. Students who do not participate shall not be adversely affected in terms of their course requirements, grades, or eligibility to participate in other activities of the class or group.

(i) Travel agencies or other private organizations promoting travel study trips shall not be permitted access to the school to promote or enroll students for privately sponsored travel study programs and trips.

(a) An activity is a school related event for which the school does not arrange transportation, e.g. award banquets, distributive education transportation to work sites, Student Rights and Responsibilities meetings. This statement does not apply to FHSAA competitive athletic events.

(b) All school functions and related activities must be approved by the principal. The principal is responsible for insuring adequate supervision at the activity. School staff will be present, but the 1 to 10 ratio of chaperones to students will not be provided.

(a) Admission fees for all athletic activities shall be as prescribed by the athletic conference in which the school holds memberships.

(b) At all interscholastic athletic events, faculty members of participating schools shall be provided free admission.

(c) All interscholastic practice activities shall be conducted after school. Practice sessions shall not interfere with or take the place of the regular class schedule of the athletes.

(d) Transportation will be provided for students as determined by the principal with approval of the Director of Pre K-12 Extracurricular Student Activities. If school officials arrange transportation, provisions (3)(i) and (j) of this policy shall apply. If the school does not provide transportation it shall be the responsibility of the student athletes to provide their own transportation.

(e) Athletic competitions are subject to regular field trip guidelines as outlined in this policy. The field trip forms referred to in paragraphs (2)(b) and (3)(s) are not required for FHSAA athletic competitions. In lieu of the "Field Trip Permission" form, the High School Activities Participation Form signed by the parent or guardian must be on file before a student may participate in FHSAA athletic competitions.

(8) OUT-OF-STATE ATHLETIC TEAM/CHEERLEADING SQUAD TRAVEL: The following shall apply to athletic teams and cheerleading squads traveling out-of-state or to national competitions:

(a) Students who are members of, or who are attached to, the team or squad shall not miss more than one school day.

(b) Neither the principal's discretionary budget nor the centralized athletics' budget may be used to fund the out-of-state travel.

(d) All cheerleading squads qualifying for national competition will be allowed to compete on a national level in competition approved by the Director of Pre K-12 Extracurricular Student Activities and will be exempt from item (a) above.

History: New 7/12/50; Amended 7/13/55, 5/22/57, 7/22/59, 7/12/61, 2/27/74; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 5/10/78, 10/28/81, 3/24/98, 6/30/98, 9/22/98, 10/12/99, 7/25/00, 2/13/01, 7/31/01, 9/24/02, 7/29/03, 7/27/04, 8/2/05

(1) All students attending combined school functions shall be accounted for on the TDE form submitted by the teacher-chaperone, and the form shall indicate that sufficient teacher chaperones shall be provided for the students, consistent with the following requirements.

(2) It shall be permissible for students of various Pinellas County schools to be combined on one teacher's TDE form for school sponsored events, provided that it is clearly understood that such students are the responsibility of the teacher whose name appears on the TDE form.

(3) The ratio of students to assigned chaperones shall not exceed the Florida Activities Association recommendation of ten (10) students to one (1) chaperone.

(4) The teacher who is responsible for arranging participation in the function shall schedule a meeting of all students who plan to participate in the function; parents shall also be invited. When students are to be chaperoned by a teacher from a school other than a school to which they are assigned, the student and the teacher arranging the function shall meet with the teacher chaperone in order to become acquainted and familiar with the policies and procedures that will be enforced in regard to the function; parents of such students shall also be invited to the meeting.

(l) Any organization intending to sponsor an exchange student(s) with a J-1 visa shall register with the Office of World Languages, providing such information as may be deemed by the office to be appropriate for the efficient and orderly management of such a program for all concerned.

(2) Not more than eight (8) foreign exchange students shall be admitted to any one Pinellas County high school in an academic school year.

(3) Not more than five (5) foreign exchange students from any one organization or agency may be placed in any one school.

(4) Foreign exchange students are admitted for a full academic year only. No foreign exchange student shall be admitted to Pinellas County Schools following th

	Q.	What should the student do first when a problem arises?
	A.	The student should first talk courteously to the teacher or administrator to attempt to solve the problem. This should be done outside of regular class time.
	Q.	What if the student is not satisfied after talking to the teacher or administrator?
	A.	If the student does not believe the problem has been solved after talking with the teacher or assistant principal, the student should describe the problem in writing and give it to the principal within three (3) school days of when the problem occurred. Complaints related to discrimination or harassment must be submitted within sixty (60) days of the problem occurring.
	Q.	What will the principal do?
	A.	The principal will investigate the student's problem and give the student a written decision on how s/he will resolve the problem. That written decision will be provided to the student within five (5) school days from the day the student gave the written description of the problem to the principal.
	Q.	Can the student appeal the principal’s decision?
	A.	If a student is not satisfied with the way that the principal has resolved the problem, the student may request in writing that the Region Associate Superintendent’s office or his/her designee, review the decision of the principal and make a final decision in the matter. The Region Associate Superintendent’s office will give the student the final decision within five (5) school days from the date that the office received the student's written request to review the matter. There is no appeal from the final decision of the Region Associate Superintendent’s office.
	Q.	What if the student's problem was originally with the principal?
	A.	If the student's problem originally was with the principal and the student does not believe the problem was solved after talking with the principal; the student should describe the problem in writing and give it to the Region Associate Superintendent’s office within three (3) school days of when the problem occurred. Complaints related to discrimination or harassment must be submitted within sixty (60) days of the problem occurring. The matter will be reviewed by the Region Associate Superintendent’s office and they will provide the student with a final written decision within five (5) school days from the date that the student gave them the written description of the problem. There is no appeal from the final decision of the Region Associate Superintendent’s office.