Pinellas County Schools Policy Manual

(1) Not later than the end of the first semester of each school year, the Superintendent (or designee), after receiving the recommendations of a calendar committee, shall recommend to the Board for adoption an annual calendar for school holidays and opening and closing term dates for the next school year, which shall conform to and provide such days for students and teachers as are required by law. The School Board shall approve a list of religious holidays on which student absence from school shall be allowed when the annual school calendar is adopted.

(2) Good academic practice calls for student attendance to be at or near capacity when testing and other major events are scheduled for students. Therefore, the calendar committee shall be expected to take into consideration the dates of religious holidays of the various faiths, when a large number of students and staff are usually absent.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.33 (6) (f), (g), 232.0225 (2) (b) F.S.; 6A-10.019 SBE Rules..

History: New 7/28/65; Revised l2/18/74; Amended l2/14/77, 9/14/88, 6/30/98

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.01 (changed 6/30/98)

6.02 SCHOOL PLANT

(1) Although the facilities provided by the Board are primarily for the education of the students of the county, use of these facilities for the benefit of the communities in which they are located is encouraged.

(2) A name for a new facility shall be recommended to the Board no later than a year from the date on which an architect is appointed to develop the school plans.

(a) If named by location, the name of the facility shall be descriptive and brief.

(b) If named for a person, that person shall have been an outstanding civic or educational leader of local or national repute who has been deceased for not less than one year. Such name shall be limited to one person.

(c) The name selected shall be permanent, unless the facility's program or use shall be changed, in which case the facility may be completely re named, as provided in (a) or (b) above.

(3) When new buildings or additions to existing facilities are to be constructed or old facilities to be rehabilitated, the architectural and engineering designs and specifications shall be drafted according to established procedures.

(4) The construction of new buildings or additions to existing facilities shall be administered by the division of institutional services. The design and construction are to be accomplished in interpretation of educational specifications prepared and furnished by Institutional Services in conjunction with the division of curriculum and instruction, which shall involve principals, teachers, supervisors and consultants in the development of educational programs and the resultant educational specifications for facilities.

(5) The Superintendent may recommend to the Board that new buildings or additions to existing facilities (e.g., libraries, football fields, wings, special rooms) be given a distinct name, provided all other subsections of this Policy are met.

(6) Prior to the selection of an architect for the design of a new school or major addition to a school, the Superintendent shall apprise the Board of any available existing facilities which may be considered as possible alternatives to the needed construction. The criteria for such possible alternatives shall be included in the administrative procedures and shall include but not be limited to the following: cost, both for new construction and modifications to possible alternatives; student health and safety; and suitability for the program to be housed.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.22(2), 235.06 F.S.

History: New 7/22/59; Amended 7/28/65, 7/31/68; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 6/25/75, 12/14/77, 6/14/78, 9/13/78, 8/18/80, 6/8/83, 10/24/90, 2/27/91, 6/30/98

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.05 (changed 6/30/98)

6.03 CLOSING/CONVERTING SCHOOL FACILITIES

The Superintendent shall provide, for Board approval, procedures for the closing and conversion of school facilities, which shall be consistent with the laws of Florida and any extant court orders.

(1) Following a state school plant survey recommendation that a school be closed or converted to other use and its students housed elsewhere, the Superintendent may direct the pupil assignment department to determine if adequate housing is available in surrounding or other schools and that such schools will not become overcrowded as a result of the school's closing/conversion; or

(2) Should the Superintendent determine independently of such survey, after consulting with appropriate staff members, that a school(s) be closed or converted to other use, he shall direct the pupil assignment department to determine that suitable housing be available in other county schools and that such closing/ conversion not create overcrowded conditions before he further directs the preparing of specific plans for such closing/conversion.

(3) A preliminary proposal to close or convert a school and a plan for relocating its student population shall be presented to the Superintendent. Among matters presented for consideration for such closing shall be the impact of the recommendation on the community, the housing of students in the area, programming, the future use of the facility being considered for closing or conversion, and costs to the district.

(4) The Superintendent, in consultation with his staff and the pupil assignment department, shall carefully weigh all input received before determining if he will present the proposal to the Board.

(5) If the Superintendent determines to present the proposal to the Board, a written rationale shall be developed, and the pupil assignment department shall make the pending proposal(s) and/or plan known to the School Board, the school principals involved, the Bi-Racial Advisory Committee and the School Advisory Committee(s).

(6) The principal, the area superintendent and the pupil assignment department shall meet with parents and the school community to explain the proposal and to gather input and concerns.

(7) The Superintendent shall consider all available input before preparing a written recommendation for approval by the Board. Copies of this recommendation shall simultaneously be sent to the school principal(s), the Bi-Racial Advisory Committee and the School Advisory Committee(s).

(8) The Superintendent shall present his recommendation to the Board for action at a regularly scheduled meeting.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.23 (9), 230.33 (11), F.S.

History: New 3/13/85

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.06 (changed 6/30/98)

6.04 MOBILE AND BOARD OWNED HOME LEASES

The best interest of the school board is sometimes served by permitting families to reside in a mobile or Board owned home located on School Board property when such residence is for the purpose of providing security service for the School Board property. The Superintendent is authorized to enter into agreement with prospective residents through a Board-approved lease form. Any additions to, or deletions from, the provisions of the Board-approved lease form, due to unusual circumstances, shall be submitted to the Board for approval.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.23 F.S.

History: New 2/27/85, Amended 6/30/98

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.15 (changed 6/30/98)

6.05 SCHOOL DISMISSAL

(1) Consistent with law, opening and closing hours shall be established for each school, as approved by the Board upon recommendation of the Superintendent (or designee), prior to the opening of school.

(2) Except in cases of emergency as declared by the Superintendent, (or designee) no principal is authorized to dismiss school before the regularly scheduled hour.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 229.053 F.S.; 6A-1.0952 SBE Rules...

History: New 7/28/65; Revised l2/18/74; Revised and Amended 8/23/78, 6/30/98

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.17 (changed 6/30/98)

6.06 EDUCATIONAL PLANT SURVEY

(1) At least every 5 years the Board shall arrange for an educational plant survey, to aid in formulating plans for housing the educational program and student population, faculty, administrators, staff, and auxiliary and ancillary services of the district, including consideration of the local comprehensive plan. The State Division of Vocational, Adult, and Community Education shall establish documentation of the need for additional vocational and adult education programs and the continuation of existing programs before facility construction or renovation related to vocational or adult education may be included in the education plan survey. Each survey shall be conducted by the Board or an agency employed by the Board. Surveys shall be reviewed and approved by the Board, and a file copy shall be submitted to the commissioner. The survey report shall include at least an inventory of existing educational and ancillary plants; recommendations for existing educational and ancillary plants; recommendations for new educational or ancillary plants, including the general location of each in coordination with the land use plan; the utilization of school plants based on an extended school day or year-round operation; and such other information as may be required by the rules of the State Board of Education. This report may be amended, if conditions warrant, at the request of the Board. Relocatables shall be included in the school district inventory of facilities and must be rated at 100 percent of actual student capacity for purposes of the inventory. For future needs determination, relocatables shall not be counted at 100 percent. An adjustment shall be made for deficiencies in core space because of the use of portables. When required by the State Constitution, the Department of Education shall review the surveys and any amendments thereto for compliance with the requirements of Florida Statute 235, and shall recommend those in compliance for approval by the State Board of Education.

(2) An exception to the recommendations in the educational plant survey may be allowed if the Board deems that it will be advantageous to the welfare of the educational system or that it will make possible a substantial saving of funds. The Board, upon determining that an exception is warranted, must present a full statement, in writing, setting forth the relevant facts to the Commissioner of Education.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: Section 235 F.S.

History: New 1/10/96, Amended 6/30/98

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.175 (changed 6/30/98)

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION

6.07 NON-SCHOOL RELATED PUBLICATIONS

The following policy applies to publications other than student and non-academic publications: Non-school related literature from organizations or individuals must be approved by the Superintendent, (or designee), and such publications shall be made accessible only as provided in the following procedures.

When an organization or individual wishes to make publications accessible through the public schools, such publications must be submitted to the Superintendent, (or designee), for approval and shall be made accessible only as provided herein. Grounds for denial of such approval to distribute non-school related publications shall include, but not be limited to, violation of Board policy (i.e., advertising), obscenity and gross profanity and vulgarity which are incompatible with the normal activity associated with a public education institution as well as other forms of unprotected expression.

(1) Following the Superintendent's, (or designee's) approval, the director of school operations will issue a letter authorizing the organization or individual to approach school principals in order to request permission to distribute non-school related publications in the school.

(2) The school principal shall make the decision of whether the publication should be distributed in the school. Grounds for the principal to deny such permission to distribute non-school related publications shall include, but not be limited to, handling and dissemination concerns, staff availability, and conflicts with established individual school events calendars.

(3) Following the principal's approval, copies of the publication should be delivered to the school by the organization or individual and left with the principal for dissemination.

(4) Copies should then be placed in an accessible area and a simple announcement of their availability made to the students.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.22(2) F.S.

History: New 7/22/59; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 12/14/77, 4/9/86, 8/8/90

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.19 (changed 6/30/98)

6.08 EQUIPMENT SALES AND DEMONSTRATIONS

No salesperson or distributor (e.g., musical instruments, athletic equipment, etc.) shall be permitted to give demonstrations or sell directly through the schools to parents without first having approval of the principal or director.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.22 (2) F.S.

History: New 3/15/53; Amended 5/22/57; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 12/14/77, 6/30/98

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.21 (changed 6/30/98)

6.09 ANNOUNCEMENTS AND CLASS INTERRUPTIONS

(1) Except for emergencies and other occasions deemed necessary by administration all intercom announcements and other class interruptions shall be made during homeroom or a specially designated period and at such other times as will not interrupt classroom instruction according to administrative procedures.

(2) Consistent with school board policy, announcements and message deliveries shall be provided as follows:

(a) Individual announcements shall be placed in teachers' mail boxes or presented before the instructional periods begin.

(b) Students shall not be called from classes except in cases of emergency or as scheduled for certain school program activities approved by the principal. These special interruptions shall be scheduled and kept to a minimum.

(c) Faculty checklists, material lists, message deliveries, and routine announcements shall be limited to the school bulletin board, to homeroom periods, to faculty meetings, to bulletin boards, or outside the instructional day.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented:

History: New 7/28/65; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 12/14/77, 8/8/90, 6/30/98

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.22 (changed 6/30/98)

6.091 ACCREDITATION

The goal for all Pinellas County schools is full accreditation under applicable State standards. In addition, all senior high schools will meet accreditation standards as set forth by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Post secondary schools will meet the accreditation standards as set forth by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Post secondary schools will meet the accreditation standards as set forth by the Council on Occupational Education. It shall be the responsibility of the school principal to inform the Superintendent at any time a school may be in danger of not receiving such full accreditation.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.23 F.S.

History: New 7/28/65; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 5/10/78, 6/30/98

Note: Former 6Gx52-3.04 (changed 6/30/98)

6.10 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES

REPEALED - 1/11/05

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 235.14 F.S.; 6A-2.086, 6A-3.017 SBE Rules..

History: New 7/12/50; Amended 5/22/57, 7/28/65, 11/l7/7l; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 12/14/77, 8/8/90, 6/30/98, 2/8/00; Repealed 1/11/05

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.23 (changed 6/30/98)

6.11 ENTERTAINMENT AND FUND DRIVES

(1) Entertainment shall not be permitted during school hours, other than that sponsored by the school. Schools may accept donations from students for such entertainment offered during the school day.

(2) Persons not employed by the Board shall not be permitted to give talks or entertain in a school unless permission has been obtained from the principal in accordance with established procedures.

(3) Ticket sales for non-school activities shall only be conducted in the schools with the approval of the appropriate Area Superintendent (or designee) and shall comply with the district’s Auditing & Property Records Department Procedures Handbook as referenced in policy 7.10 SCHOOL INTERNAL FUNDS – PRINCIPLES.

(4) The educational value of community projects, such as the United Way and Red Cross, shall be given special emphasis in the schools during community drives, but the collection of funds from students shall not exceed three (3) drives per year.

(5) Students shall not be permitted to make door-to-door solicitations for school activities.

(6) Carnivals and other fund raising events having mechanical rides may be conducted on school property if a Facility Lease is completed and submitted with the following:

(a) a Commercial General Liability insurance policy which covers products and completed operations (e.g., food products) and provides at least $1,000,000 in coverage

(b) a certificate of insurance naming the school district as an additional insured;

(c) a copy of the most recent Amusement Device/Attraction Inspection Report for each mechanical ride which will be utilized;

(d) written approval by the appropriate Area Superintendent.

(7) Principals shall discourage end-of-year class parties, picnics and outings that take place during school time.

(8) All collections for community drives shall be made outside the classroom. The participating agency shall give the principal a receipt for the amount collected. No collections shall be made by the teachers.

(9) All school PTA’s, non-PTA parent organizations, and direct support organizations (e.g., booster clubs) that engage in fund raising activities shall provide insurance designated by risk management. This insurance is required to protect the School Board, individual PTA’s, non-PTA parent organizations and support organizations from losses. Schools and affiliated support organizations may obtain this coverage through their membership in the County Council of PTA’s or by securing individual policies. Schools, non-PTA parent organizations and affiliated support organizations that secure individual policies shall obtain coverage for the school year and provide proof of coverage to risk management prior to the beginning of school. The School Board assumes no liability for the actions of school PTA’s, non-PTA parent organizations or support organizations, or for the loss of their property or funds.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 1001.41 F.S.; 6A-1.089 SBE Rules...

History: New 7/l2/50; Amended 3/l5/53, 7/13/55,5/22/57,7/22/59, 7/12/61, 7/28/65, 7/31/68; Revised l2/18/74; Amended l2/14/77, 8/8/90, 8/12/97, 6/30/98, 2/27/01

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.24 (changed 6/30/98)

6.12 ADVERTISING

Non-school connected advertising shall not be permitted in the public schools unless approved by the Superintendent (or designee). The Superintendent (or designee) may permit the distribution of certain instructional materials, supplies and equipment which carry a recognized or registered trademark or logo of the contributor or a business represented by the contributor. In addition, the Superintendent (or designee) may approve advertising of events for governmental entities when such events are deemed in the best interest of the students.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.22 (2) F.S.

History: New 7/12/50; Amended 3/15/53, 7/22/59, 7/12/61, 7/31/68; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 10/10/84, 7/22/92, 6/30/98, 7/30/02

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.25 (changed 6/30/98)

6.125 ADVERTISEMENT OR ANNOUNCEMENT OF NON-SCHOOL EVENTS

(1) The Superintendent or designee may approve the advertisement or announcement of non-school events for non-profit organizations or organizations working in partnership with the school district through the Education Foundation when such events are deemed to be consistent with the fundamental values of the school district (i.e. the district's vision, mission, strategic directions and core values). Once approved, schools shall distribute the advertisement or make the announcement as provided in this rule. For the purpose of this policy, advertisement is defined as written communication and announcement is defined as oral communication.

(2) Such advertisement or announcement of events shall be subject to the following restrictions:

(a) The advertisement or announcement shall be for the sole purpose of making students aware of before or after-school activities, educational opportunities or services, or non-profit community events.

(b) The content of the advertisement or announcement shall be limited to providing information about the activity or series of related activities and the time, date and place of the event, as well as a contact person and telephone number.

(d) The written advertisement shall contain the following disclaimer in at least 12-point type in bold letters (An announcement shall contain the same statement):

The school is neither endorsing nor sponsoring this event nor approving or endorsing the views of the organization sponsoring the activity.

The Superintendent (or designee) may waive this requirement when appropriate with the approval of the School Board Attorney.

(e) Distribution of such advertisement by students or the announcement by students to other students shall be subject to reasonable time, place and method restrictions as determined by the principal or designee. Such distribution or announcement shall not interfere with the normal operation of the school.

(f) At the discretion of the principal or designee, distribution of advertisements may be made through placement or posting of the advertisement at a specified point or points as determined by the principal or designee. If there is an announcement about the availability of such advertisement, the announcement shall contain the disclaimer notice required in (2)(d) above. Such distribution or posting points shall prominently display the disclaimer notice required in (2)(d) above.

(g) At the discretion of the principal or designee, distribution of advertisements may be made by school employees or volunteers, provided the employee or volunteer gives the disclaimer notice required in (2)(d) above prior to the distribution.

(h) This rule shall become effective for the 2001-2002 school year and thereafter.

(3) Advertisement or Announcement of non-school events sponsored by governmental entities are governed by policy 6.12 ADVERTISING.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.22 (2), 233.065 F.S.

History: New 5/22/01. Amended: 7/30/02

6.13 PATRIOTIC OBSERVANCES AND PERIODS OF SILENCE

(1) In order that the youth within our schools be given the opportunity to develop within themselves national pride and patriotism, there shall be conducted within the Pinellas County schools the observance of patriotic exercises at the beginning of each day, consisting of the pledge to the flag and, when appropriate, the singing of the National Anthem.

(2) Immediately following the daily patriotic exercises, those students and faculty members who wish to observe a brief period of silence for reflection or recollection, which shall not be construed as a religious observance, shall be given such opportunity.

(3) Those students and faculty members not wishing to participate in such patriotic observances and silent periods should maintain a respectful silence, refraining from any act that would interfere with such observances.

(4) The School Board regards such patriotic exercises at the beginning of all formal school sponsored programs, i.e., assemblies, parent-faculty programs, public forums conducted by the schools, athletic games and other forms of competition, etc., to be in keeping with the American way of life; therefore, the Board enthusiastically endorses such observances within our schools.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.22 (2), 233.065 F.S.

History: New 5/10/78

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.27 (changed 6/30/98)

6.14 SCHOOL VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

(1) The School Board of Pinellas County encourages volunteer participation by individuals and groups in local schools, in central and area offices, and for supervised off-school activities before, during, and after school hours.

(2) Definition: A volunteer is a non-paid person functioning under the sponsorship of the School Board and at the direction of the principal or Supervisor of Community Involvement, including but not limited to:

(a) Coaching assistants

(b) Band/choral boosters

(d) Cheerleading booster

(e) PTA Officers

(f) Any non-paid program assistant

(3) The supervisor of community involvement and the volunteer program management team shall be responsible for the volunteer program and its compliance with all laws pertaining to volunteers, which shall include the recruitment of volunteers and the evaluation of the volunteer program.

(4) Requirements:

(a) Volunteers shall work within guidelines established by the School Board and the responsible administrators.

(b) Volunteers shall work under the direction and supervision of the principal, teachers or other members of the school staff.

(c) Volunteers may perform any task assigned by their supervisors if approved by the principal or Supervisor of Community Involvement with the following exceptions:

1. Volunteers may not have access to the student information system or cumulative records unless designated by the principal and receive specific training regarding confidentiality of student records.

2. Volunteers may not grade subjective assignments that result in a grade for the student or are considered a formal assessment of the student's achievement or ability.

3. Volunteers may not supervise a class in the teacher's absence.

(d) Volunteers may come in contact with student information in the course of their duties. Volunteers shall be advised that they are required to maintain strict confidentiality with all school or classroom information with which they come in contact and shall agree in writing that they will comply with the requirement.

(e) Teachers, administrators, and volunteers shall be aware of all state and local policies, procedures and laws relevant to volunteer responsibilities.

(f) Volunteers may ride regularly scheduled school buses to reach their assigned school:

1. If they are appointed as bus monitor by the principal, and

2. If they meet the bus at a "regular" bus stop, and

3. If their being seated does not take priority over students.

(5) Management:

(a) Volunteers must be registered with the community involvement office and when registered are protected by the School Board of Pinellas County's Self-Insured General Liability Program. The extent of this protection shall not exceed $100,000 per claimant or $200,000 per occurrence in damages. The volunteer registration process includes a background check on all volunteers. The background check does not normally require finger printing but may for some cases. Any indication of a criminal history or omission/falsification of information may result in termination of that volunteer's activities at any Pinellas County School, as determined by the Office of Community Involvement, PCS Police and the Office of Professional Standards.

(b) All schools must maintain a volunteer database (in the online Volunteer System), which will record volunteer information, hours, and areas of service. All volunteers shall sign in and out in the volunteer database (in the online Volunteer System), while volunteering at a school.

(6) Off-Campus Volunteer Instructional Services:

(a) Volunteer instructional tutoring services provided by groups in conjunction with public schools shall receive the approval of the principals.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 229.58, 236.0873 F.S.; 6A-1.70 SBE Rules...

History: New 10/27/82, Amended 10/24/90, 1/9/91, 7/24/9l, 8/25/93, 6/30/98, 12/8/98, 12/9/03

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.28 (changed 6/30/98)

6.15 STUDENT ASSIGNMENT TO SCHOOLS (ATTENDANCE DISTRICTS)

(1) A student's address is considered the address of the custodial parent(s) or the legal guardian(s), if parent(s) or guardian(s) live within the Pinellas County school district. The School Board recognizes that many students live in a variety of residential settings. The determination of the student's address shall be as follows:

(a) Students under the age of 18 who move away from their parents' residence shall be assigned to the address at which their parents reside unless a legal guardianship has been awarded to an adult with whom the student resides.

(b) A student who has attained age 18 and does not live at the residence of either parent shall be assigned to the address at which the student resides.

(c) Parents will be required to provide the school with a notarized statement indicating the parent who will be identified as the parent of record for school assignment purposes when a divorce decree does not indicate a residential parent or when parents are separated with no document identifying a specific residential parent.

(d) Students whose parents' whereabouts are unknown and who live with a relative, surrogate parent, or caregiver may be assigned to that adult's address. Any change of relative, surrogate parent, or caregiver will require legal documentation of the change.

(e) Other residential circumstances not described above should be referred to the Student Assignment Department, which will make the final decision concerning the appropriate assignment of address.

(2) It is the responsibility of the school principal to communicate with parents, students, and staff that the parent or guardian must report a change in address to the principal within five school days of the occurrence.

(3) Nothing in the approved school assignment policies shall be construed as prohibiting the Superintendent (or designee), after thorough study, from administratively assigning a student to a school within the provisions of the Choice Plan when, in the Superintendent's (or designee’s) opinion, it is in the best interests of the student or the school system. When special assignment is made, through an administrative transfer, a student so assigned shall be entitled to all the rights and privileges of other students in the school to which he is assigned unless such assignment is made for disciplinary reasons as determined by the Superintendent (or designee). An administrative transfer for disciplinary reasons shall render the student ineligible for participation in interscholastic athletics for the duration of one school year.

(4) The Special Attendance Permit (SAP) grants a student the privilege of attending a school in another choice area other than the one in which he or she resides. Extenuating circumstances for which SAPs may be granted may include, but shall not be limited to, child care of an elementary or middle school student, a family hardship or the medical condition of the child.

(5) The student assignment department will make the initial decision on SAPs. Parents may appeal an unfavorable decision to the Special Attendance Permit Appeals Committee that will render a final decision as to school assignment.

(6) Athletic Recruiting: The Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) bylaws prohibit recruiting as follows.

(a) A student who participates in non-school competition (i.e. AAU, American Legion, etc.) as a member of a team that is affiliated with any school other than the school which the student attends and who subsequently transfers to that school shall be ineligible to represent that school in interscholastic athletic competition for a period of 365 consecutive days from the date of enrollment in that school. A team affiliated with a school is one that is organized or coached by any member of the athletic department staff at, or any person affiliated with, that school; or has a team roster comprised of a majority of students who attend that school. Membership by a student on such a team followed by his/her transfer to that school shall be considered prima facia evidence of recruiting.

(7) High schools under the jurisdiction of the School Board of Pinellas County are members of the Florida High School Activities Association and must comply with association rules to maintain membership. Nothing in this policy shall be construed as interference with the judgment of the officers of the association concerning the rules of the association on eligibility, nor shall this be construed as a directive to any principal to sign any form as a prerequisite to eligibility for any student.

(8) The Superintendent (or designee) may assign a student to any school or educational program if it is deemed in the best interest of that student or the school district. Such assignment shall not conflict with I.D.E.A. requirements.

(9) The Student Assignment Plan dated December 18, 2007, as amended January 13, 2009, and February 10, 2009, is hereby adopted by the School Board as a rule and is incorporated in this policy manual by reference and made a part hereof. It is effective upon adoption and implementation of the Student Assignment Plan that begins in the 2009-10 school year. The Student Assignment Plan document can be accessed at the Pinellas County Schools website (http://www.pcsb.org)

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.23(4) F.S.

History: New 5/13/87; Amended 7/26/89, 8/8/90 (Emergency), 9/12/90, 2/13/9l, 6/24/92, 1/10/95, 1/28/97, 7/29/97, 6/30/98, 10/22/02, 2/11/03, 5/27/03 (Emergency), 9/23/03, 12/9/03, 8/2/05, 1/9/07, 12/18/07, 1/13/09, 2/10/09

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.29 (changed 6/30/98)

6.16 RELIGIOUS HOLIDAY EXEMPTIONS

(1) In order to prevent a conflict between participation in religious observances and participation in public school attendance in grades kindergarten through 12, a student shall be exempt from attendance for a day or days, or for a period of time on a day, designated by the School Board as a religious holiday.

(2) The School Board shall approve a list of religious holidays on which student absence from school shall be allowed when the annual school calendar is adopted. The Superintendent (or designee) is authorized to add religious holidays to the list when presented with documentation establishing the existence of a legitimate religious holiday.

(3) The parent or guardian of a student who is to be absent on such a religious holiday shall provide to the principal or a designated school administrator, at least three (3) days prior to the absence, a signed notice of the student's intent to be absent. The notice shall contain the name and address of the student to be absent and the date and/or time of the absence.

(4) The principal and teachers at each school shall plan examination, study, and assignments so that no undue hardship is imposed upon the student exempted from attendance to observe a religious holiday. No testing of any kind or major reviews shall take place on a religious holiday recognized by the School Board.

(5) A student shall have the opportunity to make up any examination, study, or assignment which has been missed because of absence for observance of a religious holiday or because the tenets of the student's religion forbid secular activity at such time.

(6) The principals and teachers at each school shall be responsible for making available to the student so exempted the examination, study, or assignment which has been missed and no special fees shall be charged for such opportunity.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.22 (a), 232.0225 (2) (a) (b) F.S.

History: New 8/10/88 (Emergency); 9/14/88, 6/30/98 Amended; 2/10/04

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.30 (changed 6/30/98)

6.17 PHOTOGRAPHS OF STUDENTS

(1) The sale of student pictures shall be conducted in a school only as a service to the school and community and not as a project primarily to raise funds for the school. Any extension of photographic sales to include such items as key-ring photos, memory books, senior class pictures, and novelties is specifically prohibited. See policy 6.18 for instructions on purchase of these items.

(2) The authority to accept and reject bids for the purchase of student pictures (not senior class pictures) is reserved to the school principal or director of purchasing for the district. If the bid which the school selects exceeds the competitive bid threshold listed in School Board policy 7.15 (2) (a), the bid must be submitted to the School Board for approval by the school’s Area Superintendent before a contract may be issued.

(3) Guidelines apply to all schools (grades K-12) and exceptional student education centers, excluding senior class pictures.

(4) Picture contracts are to be made on an annual basis and may be canceled at any time during the school year if the quality, performance or any other conditions are unsatisfactory.

(5) Written bids shall be requested from three (3) or more sources on a standard four (4) unit package of any mix. A unit is one piece of photo print paper, 5" x 7" color. The school may select the combination of units it desires. All students in each school shall receive the same combination. In addition to the standard package, the dealer may offer additional options to the standard package at additional cost. A single sheet purchase may be made, at the discretion of the principal. If the school principal wishes to have group pictures taken, this requirement must be either be part of the individual student picture bid or a separate bid must be solicited.

(6) A maximum charge of eight dollars ($8.00) for the standard package (4 units of 5" x 7" color) has been established by the Board .

(7) The contract shall be awarded on the basis of the best quality product, best service, and the packet cost. Award of the bid shall be made on the basis of the lowest responsive and responsible bid. All bids, no bids, and justifications for selection of a vendor shall be kept on file in the respective school for audit purposes. The principal shall be solely responsible for selecting the best package offered.

(8) Dealers shall be required to submit adequate sample pictures for evaluation purposes. Dealers may also be called upon to discuss methods, terms and conditions surrounding their proposals.

(9) The successful dealer shall now have or establish an office or studio in Pinellas County, Florida, to provide for direct contact with schools. The dealer shall also secure all necessary permits and licenses.

(10) As part of the contract, the dealer shall agree to provide a minimum of twenty-five percent (25%) commission on the gross sales, exclusive of state sales tax, on all pictures sold by the school. The commission fee (25%) shall be made payable to the school not more than thirty (30 days) after completion of the annual contract.

(11) INFORMATION ONLY concerning the picture options offered by the dealer, other than those approved in the guidelines, may be sent out with the proofs or packets. See policy 6.18 for instructions on purchase of these items.

(12) The successful dealer shall furnish free of charge one (1) black and white picture of each student for record use, at all grade levels. The pictures of school personnel shall be complimentary in return for the assistance in the making of the pictures.

(13) Make-ups and re-takes shall be scheduled by the individual schools. Pictures in all schools shall be taken at the option of the principal. The schedule for picture taking shall be arranged by the principals of the respective schools and the photographer or his/her agent. Should the photographer cancel a scheduled appointment, or fail to appear to take the pictures on the appointed date without written consent of the principal, the schools so affected shall receive an additional five percent (5%) commission from the photographer.

(14) The dealer shall be required to furnish combs for elementary school children and all necessary information, forms and picture notices needed by each school. Each school shall receive a package for each student (determined by the principal) and the package may or may not be purchased, at the option of the student or parent. The successful dealer shall include with the packet, money envelopes of a secure type for the return of the money if the student/parent desires the pictures.

(15) An optional pre-pay plan may be initiated if this is considered by the principal to be in the best interests of the school.

(16) School personnel shall handle all orders and collections of money for the pictures. (This may vary slightly when the optional pre-pay plan is used. Schools using this plan shall retain the money until the picture packets are delivered.) In the event the dealer requests the monies collected be given to them immediately, a "blanket" performance bond in the amount of $100,000.00 covering all Pinellas schools involved shall be issued by the dealer to the district’s risk management department and then all collections may be made by the dealer. Personal checks shall be made out directly to the dealer and come directly from the students.

(17) All color pictures shall be printed on Kodak RC paper or equivalent.

(18) Schools may receive bids which call for either proofs or packets to be sent home for examination by the parents. This shall be at the discretion of the principal, who shall select the best plan for his/her school.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.22 F.S.

History: New 7/12/61; Amended 7/28/65; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 8/23/78, 9/12/83, 6/27/90, 7/24/91, 7/8/92, 6/30/98, 9/24/02

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.31 (changed 6/30/98)

6.18 PURCHASE OF COMMEMORATIVE ITEMS

(1) Each school or program, hereinafter referred to as school, shall solicit a bid for class jewelry, caps and gowns, announcements, name cards, medallions and diploma covers. Other miscellaneous senior commemorative items listed on a supplementary price list may be purchased under this bid. The district’s purchasing department will assist by providing standard specifications and bidding guidelines for these items. These specifications shall be the only specifications used to solicit bids for these items. Schools shall bid other items classified as commemoratives including, but not limited to, senior graduation pictures and yearbooks, but may develop their own specifications for these items. In all cases, bids must be solicited from not fewer than three vendors whose primary business relates to commemorative items. If the bid which the school selects exceeds the competitive bid threshold listed in School Board policy 7.15 (2) (a), the bid must be submitted to the School Board for approval by the school’s Area Superintendent before a contract may be issued.

Selection of the successful vendor(s) shall be based upon price as well as quality, selection, service history and warranty. The initial contract period for all bids shall be for no more than three (3) school years with one renewal option equal to the term of the initial contract.

(2) All sealed proposals shall specify a date, time and place for final acceptance. All sealed proposals will be opened at the designated time and place. When a selection committee is used, proposals must be opened in the company of at least a majority of the selection committee. Vendors are invited but not required to be present at the opening. The school may reject any or all bids if desired.

(3) A school shall have the option of pooling its requirements with other Pinellas County schools and soliciting a joint bid to increase its purchasing power. When doing so, the bid document must list which schools intend to purchase from the bid.

(4) In lieu of soliciting its own bid, a school shall have the option of “piggybacking” another Pinellas County school’s bid provided that school’s bid document allows “piggybacking”.

(5) Company representatives are prohibited from contacting any committee members, school staff or sponsors during the bid process for any reason other than to ask questions about a bid. This shall include sponsoring parties, breakfasts, luncheons, or any other type of pre-selection meeting. Violation shall result in disqualification.

(6) Rebates or cash donations to the class, committee, school, or administration by vendors are prohibited. Violation shall result in disqualification. Pinellas County School Board employees, students, or members of a selection committee may not overtly or covertly request any type of rebate, donation, etc.; or receive any prizes, gifts, discounts or other advantages. Vendors are prohibited from making reference to free or bonus products or materials. Violation shall result in disqualification. Vendors may, however, offer several products or options as a package for a single price. Vendors may offer presentation folders, scratch pads, pens and other normal company advertising items.

(7) All contracts for commemorative items shall stipulate a privilege to cancel when, in the judgment of the principal, merchandise or service does not meet specifications.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.22 F.S.

History: New 11/17/71; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 8/23/78, 10/24/90, 7/8/92, 7/14/93 (Emergency), 8/11/93, 2/25/97, 6/30/98, 9/24/02

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.32 (changed 6/30/98)

6.19 GIFTS

Collections of funds from students by students for the purpose of giving gifts to an employee of the Board shall be discouraged.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 230.22 F.S.

History: New 7/28/65; Revised 12/18/74; Amended 8/23/78

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.33 (changed 6/30/98)

6.20 SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS

(1) A student enrolled in a school shall be subject to the control of that school;

(a) during the time the student is being transported to or from the school at public expense;

(b) during the time the student is attending school;

(c) during the time the student is on the school premises participating with authorization in a school-sponsored activity; and

(d) during a reasonable time before and after a student is on the premises of a school for attendance at school or for authorized participation in a school-sponsored activity, and then only when on the premises.

(2) A reasonable time before and after shall be 30 minutes before or after school or 30 minutes before or after the activity is scheduled to or actually begins or ends, whichever period is longer.

(3) Schools shall provide the following notification to parents: Supervision of students on school grounds is provided only from 30 minutes before to 30 minutes after school or 30 minutes before or 30 minutes after a school activity is scheduled or actually begins or ends, whichever period is longer. Parents should not expect supervision before or after these time periods.

(4) Notification shall be provided either by a posted sign on the school premises or by advising the parents in writing twice a year. The written notification shall be by any means deemed reasonable by the school.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 232.35 F.S.

History: New 5/13/97

Note: Former 6Gx52-2.35 (changed 6/30/98)

6.21 EQUAL ACCESS

The Board, pursuant to the "Equal Access Act," permits the use of secondary facilities (i.e., facilities in which students enrolled in grades 6-12 are located) by students for non-school activities during after-school hours and not later than 5:00 p.m., subject to the following conditions:

(1) Attendance at any meetings/activities shall be completely voluntary on the part of the students, and the activities must be student initiated and student organized.

(2) Such use shall not materially and substantially interfere with the orderly operation of any school or school-sponsored activity.

(3) Such use shall not include activities directed, controlled, conducted or regularly attended by non-school persons, but employees or agents may be present in a non-participatory capacity.

(4) Such use shall not incur the expenditure of additional tax funds.

(5) Such equal access use shall be coordinated by the appropriate director of school operations. Questions concerning such use shall be addressed to the director.

(6) No salary shall be paid to Board employees for supervising such meetings/activities, and no admission fee shall be charged for attendance at such meetings/activities.

(7) Application for such use shall be secured from the office of the principal of the secondary school for which such use is requested and may be made only by a student(s) enrolled in that school.

(8) Neither the Board nor any of its employees shall sponsor such meetings/activities; sponsorship means promoting, leading or participating in such meetings/ activities. The assignment of a teacher, administrator or other school employee to such meetings/activities for custodial purposes shall not be construed as sponsorship of the meetings/activities, and such employees' presence shall be strictly non-participatory.

(9) In schools in which it is customary for staff members to make announcements over the public address system, such staff members may, but shall not be required to, make an announcement of such meetings/activities. However, students may be permitted to make an announcement of such meetings/activities at the customary time. Further, it is permissible for students to post simple notices of such meetings/activities on the student bulletin boards in the school.

(10) Such use shall not be denied on the basis of the number of participants attending such meetings/activities, except that numbers of persons in attendance may not exceed the capacity deemed safe for any given room; nor may use be denied on the basis of the content of presentation being made at such meetings/activities relative to religious, political or philosophical tenets being expounded; however, nothing in this policy is to be construed as limiting the authority of the Board or its employees to maintain order within the school facilities and to protect the well being of students, faculty and other persons on Board-owned premises and to ensure that student attendance at such meetings/activities is voluntary.

(11) Denial by the principal of the use of school facilities for such meetings/activities may be appealed as provided elsewhere in Board policy for other student appeals.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: "The Equal Access Act," P.L. 98-337; Title VII. 802, 803; 20 U.S.C. 4071,4072

History: New 10/23/85, 8/8/90, 9/11/91, 6/30/98

Note: Former 6Gx52-4.05 (changed 6/30/98)

6.22 HOME EDUCATION

(1) Home education is defined as "sequentially progressive instruction of a student directed by his or her parent or guardian." No curriculum is prescribed. In order to meet Florida Statutory requirements, the parent or guardian must:

(a) Notify the Superintendent of schools of the county in which the parent resides of his or her intent to establish a home education program.

(b) Maintain a portfolio of records and materials.

(2) A student enrolled in a Pinellas County school for more than half of the school day is considered to have declared that school as the primary educational institution and must meet all curriculum requirements of the School Board of Pinellas County. The student, therefore, is ineligible for dual enrollment in home education. This does not apply to students eligible for exceptional student education services. Home education students enrolled for half the school day or less may be on campus only when attending public school classes or participating in interscholastic extracurricular activities as defined in paragraph (4).

(3) A home educated student may not be considered eligible for Pinellas County school honors such as honor roll, principal's list, National Honor Society, National Junior Honor Society or other recognition because the student's primary enrollment is in home education and home education grades are not recognized by Pinellas County schools.

(4) An individual home education student may participate in interscholastic extracurricular activities at the student’s zoned school. Interscholastic extracurricular activities are activities that involve competition between schools. Some interscholastic extracurricular activities require that the student be enrolled in a particular course at the school (i.e. JROTC). Home education students are not eligible to participate in intrascholastic extracurricular activities including clubs since the student’s primary enrollment is in home education.

(a) A home education student must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or above on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, a home education student must maintain satisfactory conduct and, if a student is convicted of, or is found to have committed, a felony or a delinquent act which would have been a felony if committed by an adult, regardless of whether adjudication is withheld, the student’s participation in interscholastic extracurricular activities is contingent upon established and published school board policy.

(b) An individual home education student is eligible to participate at a public school in the interscholastic extracurricular activities of that school, provided the following conditions are met:

1. The home education student must meet the requirements of the home education program pursuant to Section 232.0201, Florida Statutes.

2. During the period of participation at a school, the home education student must demonstrate educational progress as required in paragraph (a) in all subjects taken in the home education program by a method of evaluation agreed upon by the parent or guardian and the principal which may include: review of the student’s work by a certified teacher chosen by the parent; grades earned in courses taken at a community college, university, or trade school; standardized test scores above the 35^th percentile; or any other method designated in Section 232.0201, Florida Statutes.

3. The home education student must meet the same residency requirements as other students in the school at which the student participates.

4. The home education student must meet the same standards of acceptance, behavior, and performance as required of other students in extracurricular activities.

5. The student must register with the school his or her intent to participate in interscholastic extracurricular activities as a representative of the school before the beginning date of the season for the activity in which he or she wishes to participate. A home education student must be able to participate in curricular activities if that is a requirement for an extracurricular activity.

6. A student who transfers from a home education program to a public school before or during the first grading period of the school year is academically eligible to participate in interscholastic extracurricular activities during the first grading period provided the student has a successful evaluation from the previous school year, pursuant to subparagraph 2.

7. Any public school or nonpublic school student who has been unable to maintain academic eligibility for participation in interscholastic extracurricular activities is ineligible to participate in such activities as a home education student until the student has successfully completed one grading period in home education pursuant to subparagraph 2 to become eligible to participate as a home education student.

(5) Home education associations that are members of any organization or entity that regulates or governs interscholastic extracurricular activities of public schools (i.e. Florida High School Activities Association) will be treated as any other member of the organization.

(6) The student standards for participation in interscholastic extracurricular activities must be applied beginning with the student’s first semester of the 9^th grade. Each student must meet such other requirements for participation as may be established by the district; however, the district may not establish requirements for participation in interscholastic extracurricular activities which make participation in such activities less accessible to home education students than to other students.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: 228.041(34), 229.808, 232.02(4), 232.425 F.S.

History: New 6/30/98; Amended 2/09/99, 5/09/00

6.23 ANIMALS ON SCHOOL BOARD PROPERTY

(1) The presence of live animals on School Board property shall be reviewed and approved by the principal of the facility. Humane treatment of all animals on a school campus is required at all times. This concept shall be taught and modeled by the staff. If approved, the person(s) or organization bringing the animal onto School Board property shall comply with the following.

(a) Display of the animal must fit within accepted curricular or educational goals and no undue risk may be presented to staff, students or the facility (i.e., some animals can cause or exacerbate allergic reactions, spread bacterial infections, or cause damage and create a hazard if they escape from confinement).

(b) Proper personal hygiene practices, particularly hand-washing immediately following the handling of animals, is required for all personnel and students. Students should be discouraged from handling animals, except under direct supervision as determined by the facility principal.

(c) Animals that exhibit any tendency toward biting, nipping or that display aggressive behavior should not be allowed on the school site.

(d) Poisonous, dangerous, or unhealthy animals shall not be allowed, nor will any warm-blooded animals secured from the “wild”, unless declared safe and documented as such by a qualified licensed veterinarian. Wild animals will be caged at all times and handled only by adults.

(e) Live birds shall only be allowed for demonstration or shows within a given period of the day and then removed from the site. Birds shall be handled by adults only.

(f) Since all amphibians and reptiles are potential carriers of different strains of salmonella and have been implicated in outbreaks as well as individual severe cases of salmonella disease, the presence of these animals in the classroom should be restricted and they should be handled only by adults.

(g) Aquariums may be allowed by the facility principal but must be located over non-carpeted floors and have an accessible water drain (sink or floor drain). All electrical devices such as lights, heaters, pumps, or circulators must be G.F.I. protected. Students, with the exception of those enrolled in marine biology, should not be allowed to handle fish or be involved in the cleaning of aquariums.

(h) Cages, aquariums, and other such containment devices and surrounding areas must be kept clean by a responsible adult. Proper food, water, ventilation, heating and lighting must be provided commensurate for normal species behavior and health.

(i) No warm-blooded animals shall remain on the site during any facility closing longer than three days. Facilities that have animal curriculum incorporated into their program with proper supervision and have designated “caretakers” for such animals are exempt.

(j) Parents or other guests visiting School Board facilities shall have personal pets leashed or caged.

(2) Facility principals are encouraged to call the Science Supervisor, Plant Operations Safety Supervisor, Area Maintenance Supervisor, or the Supervisor of School Health Services for assistance with any questions regarding the presence of animals at their facility.

(3) The Maintenance Department shall be notified when complaints either real or perceived, arise regarding the presence of animals impacting health or Indoor Air Quality. The Maintenance Department shall assign the problem to the Industrial Hygienist for resolution.

(4) Students with personal health problems which are exacerbated by the presence of particular animals in the classroom should be referred to the Supervisor of School Health Services. Under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to make accommodations for these students.

(5) This policy does not apply to law enforcement canine units, approved assist animals, and animals involved in district approved curriculum programs.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented: State Requirements for Educational Facilities (SREF)

History: New 2/8/00

6.24 STUDENT SURVEY ADMINISTRATION

The purpose of this policy is to comply with the federal law for the collection and reporting of certain information by means of student surveys. The information that will be collected relates to student attitudes and behaviors on topics such as school safety, substance use and the prevalence of risky attitudes or behaviors, particularly with respect to alcohol and drug abuse. In addition, these surveys also collect information on general health practices and human sexuality. Such information is collected anonymously, and no personally identifiable information is obtained from or reported on any individual student. The district cooperates with other agencies such as the Florida Department of Health in conducting these surveys.

(1) All student surveys must be approved by the Department of Research and Accountability.

(2) Parents will be notified of upcoming surveys that reveal information concerning one or more of the following items:

(a) Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent

(b) Mental and psychological problems of the student or the student’s family

(d) Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior

(e) Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships

(f) Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers

(g) Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parent

(h) Income (other than that required by law to determined eligibility for participation in a program or before receiving financial assistance under such program)

(3) Participation Voluntary – No student shall be required to participate in such a survey if the student or the student’s parent, if the student is less than 18 years of age, objects to participation.

(4) Right to Inspect – A student or the student’s parent, if the student is less than 18 years of age, has the right to inspect any such survey instrument before the survey is administered or distributed to students if a request is made within a reasonable period of time. Parents also have the right to be advised of arrangements that will be made to protect student privacy.

(a) Student survey instruments and teacher directions for administering the survey will be available at each participating school within a reasonable period of time prior to the survey administration.

(5) Notification of Parents – Parents will be notified of this policy annually at the beginning of the school year and within a reasonable period of time if any substantive change is made to this policy. Such notice shall include the specific or approximate dates during the school year when any such survey will be administered.

Statutory Authority: 1001.32(2), 1001.41, 1001.42, 1001.43 F.S.

Laws Implemented:

History: New 2/25/03

(1) Individual or groups seeking to recruit high school students for U.S. Military, postsecondary educational, or recognized career opportunities may have access, pursuant to the conditions of this policy, to address students on campus to share information related to such opportunities. On the authority of, and subject to the conditions on access upheld in Searcey v. Harris¹, other groups who desire to present an alternative to military service are granted equal access.

(2) Any group seeking access to students must schedule their visit to the high school campus in advance with the principal (or designee).

(a) All individual seeking access to students must follow appropriate district and campus sign in and sign out procedures and are subject to all other district policies and procedures appropriate to and applicable to individuals meeting with students.

(b) Groups with access to students are limited to two (2) representatives on the high school campus at any one time, unless otherwise arranged by the principal (or designee). This decision is at the sole discretion of the principal (or designee).

(c) Upon arrival at the high school campus, all representatives of the group must present either a valid driver’s license or an official identification card authorized by the group represented.

(d) Individual representatives must wear district issued identification badges or nametags, which are clearly visible, for the entire time they are on the high school campus.

(4) Student participation in such visits is limited to non-instructional time, during the regular school day.

(5) The principal (or designee) may terminate access for any group or individual representative of a group at their discretion for purposes of this policy, if in the estimation of the principal or his or her designee the access becomes disruptive to the normal course of events on the high school campus.

Laws Implementd: Public Law 107-110, No Child Left Behind, Sec. 9528; Searcy v Harris, 888 F.d. 1314 (11th Cir. 1989).