Thrun Model Student Handbook

2023-2024 Student Handbook

CHARLOTTE HIGH SCHOOL

Welcome to Charlotte Public Schools!

Charlotte is a community where black and orange “Oriole Pride” runs deep and where

one of our best qualities is the collaboration and support between the community and

school district.

Charlotte Public Schools is a vibrant and energetic district that prepares students for

lifelong learning. Staff, student and community member passion for this district is what

makes Charlotte Public Schools a point of pride.

The mission of the Charlotte Public Schools is to provide an excellent educational culture

and learning environment which is safe, student centered and in collaboration with our

parents and community. We aspire to ensure students are prepared with the academic

competencies and social skills for successful futures and lifelong learning.

This handbook is intended for use by students, parents, and staff as a guide to the rules,

procedures, and general information about the District. The use of the word “parent” in

this handbook means a student’s natural or adoptive parent or legal guardian. Students

and their parents are responsible for familiarizing themselves with this handbook, and

parents should use the handbook as a resource to assist their children with following its

rules and procedures.

Students must comply with all school policies, regulations, rules, and expectations. The

use of the word “Policy” in this handbook includes bylaws or policies adopted by the Board

of Education. Although the information in this handbook is comprehensive, it is not

intended to address every situation that may arise during a school day or school year.

This handbook does not create a contract between the District and parents, students, or

staff. The administration is responsible for interpreting the rules contained in the

handbook to ensure the implementation of the school’s educational program and well-

being of all students. If a situation arises that is not specifically addressed by this

handbook, the administration may respond based on applicable law and policy.

The rules and information provided in this handbook may be supplemented or amended

by the administration at any time, consistent with applicable law and policy.

PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME STATEMENT

Welcome to Charlotte High School for the 2023-2024 school year.

Our hope is that all students will make positive decisions that will give them an opportunity

for success. Attend school regularly, be attentive and participate in class, stay on top of

assignments and evaluations, and seek help when necessary. Take advantage of the

fabulous facilities provided to us by the taxpayers of Charlotte.

Charlotte High School offers a diverse and excellent extra-curricular programs as well.

Becoming involved will make your school experience complete.

Again, welcome to Charlotte High School and have a good year.

CHARLOTTE HIGH SCHOOL GOAL STATEMENT

It is the goal of Charlotte High School to improve continually by working together with

parents and the community at-large.

The mission of Charlotte High School is to building a partnership of students, parents,

community and staff committed to effective teaching and responsible leaning. The

partnership will provide a supportive learning environment where each student’s

individual needs will be addressed. The environment will provide students the

opportunity to master core curriculum, develop abilities and interests, gain respect for

human diversity and social responsibility, develop self-esteem and learn to adapt

throughout their lives.

Table of Contents

IMPORTANT INFORMATION .................................................................................................. 1

2023-2024 DISTRICT CALENDAR ....................................................................................... 2

2023-2024 DAILY SCHEDULE ............................................................................................ 3

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING PROCEDURES ..................................................................... 4

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION ....................................................................................... 6

SECTION I: DISTRICT-WIDE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ...................................................... 7

Attendance ................................................................................................................. 7

Absences due to illness ........................................................................................ 8

Planned absences ................................................................................................ 8

Books and Supplies ................................................................................................... 8

Bulletin Boards ........................................................................................................... 8

Bullying ...................................................................................................................... 9

Cafeteria Rules .......................................................................................................... 9

Cell Phone Use .......................................................................................................... 9

Cheating, Plagiarism, and Academic Dishonesty..................................................... 10

Children’s Protective Services Investigations .......................................................... 11

Classroom Behavior ................................................................................................. 11

Communicable Diseases ......................................................................................... 11

Damage to School Property ..................................................................................... 11

Dress and Grooming ................................................................................................ 11

Dress Code......................................................................................................... 12

Driving and Parking Personal Vehicles .................................................................... 12

Emergency Contact Information............................................................................... 13

Fees ......................................................................................................................... 13

Food Services .......................................................................................................... 13

Field Trips ................................................................................................................ 13

First Aid, Illness, or Injury at School ......................................................................... 14

Head Lice ................................................................................................................. 14

Homeless Children and Youth ................................................................................. 15

Immunizations .......................................................................................................... 15

Law Enforcement Interviews .................................................................................... 15

Limited English Proficiency ...................................................................................... 16

Locker Use ............................................................................................................... 16

Lost and Found ........................................................................................................ 16

Media Center ........................................................................................................... 16

Medication ............................................................................................................... 16

Asthma Inhalers and Epinephrine Auto-Injectors/Inhalers .................................. 17

Parties ...................................................................................................................... 17

Protection of Pupil Rights ......................................................................................... 17

Public Display of Affection ....................................................................................... 18

Rights of Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents ....................................................... 18

Search and Seizure ................................................................................................. 18

Student Education Records ..................................................................................... 18

Right to Request Explanation or Interpretation ................................................... 19

Right to Request Amendment of Education Records ......................................... 19

Directory Information .......................................................................................... 19

Technology .............................................................................................................. 20

Transportation Services ........................................................................................... 20

School Vehicle Rules .......................................................................................... 20

School Vehicle Misconduct Consequences ........................................................ 21

Video Surveillance and Photographs ....................................................................... 21

Withdrawal From School .......................................................................................... 22

SECTION II: ACADEMICS ................................................................................................... 23

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses ......................................................................... 23

Project Success…………………………………………………………………………… 23

Commencement....................................................................................................... 24

Credits and Graduation Requirements ..................................................................... 24

DAS Distinguished Academic Scholars ................................................................... 26

Dropping or Adding a Class ..................................................................................... 27

Dual Enrollment ....................................................................................................... 27

Grades ..................................................................................................................... 27

Homework ................................................................................................................ 27

Personal Curriculum ................................................................................................ 28

Placement ................................................................................................................ 29

Students with Disabilities ......................................................................................... 29

Testing Out .............................................................................................................. 29

Work Permits ........................................................................................................... 30

SECTION III: STUDENT CLUBS, ACTIVITIES, AND ATHLETICS ............................................... 31

Extracurricular Activities ........................................................................................... 31

Student-Initiated Non-Curricular Clubs .................................................................... 31

Transportation To/From Extracurricular Activities .................................................... 32

SECTION IV: DISCIPLINE AND CODE OF CONDUCT .............................................................. 33

Discipline Generally ................................................................................................. 33

Forms of School Discipline & Applicable Due Process ............................................ 33

After-School Detention ....................................................................................... 33

Saturday School ................................................................................................. 33

Snap Suspension - Suspension from Class, Subject, or Activity by Teacher ..... 33

Removal for 10 or Fewer School Days ............................................................... 34

Removal for More than 10 and Fewer than 60 School Days .............................. 34

Removal for 60 or More School Days ................................................................. 34

Student Code of Conduct ......................................................................................... 35

BUILDING-SPECIFIC RULES AND PROCEDURES .................................................................. 37

Hall Passes .............................................................................................................. 37

Mobile Deliveries .................................................................................................... 338

Prom/homecoming/snowball .................................................................................. 339

APPENDIX A: TITLE IX SEXUAL HARASSMENT ................................................................... 40

APPENDIX B: ANTI-BULLYING .......................................................................................... 54

APPENDIX C: PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS .................................................................... 57

APPENDIX D: DIRECTORY INFORMATION AND OPT OUT FORM ............................................. 59

APPENDIX E: ACCEPTABLE USE AGREEMENT .................................................................... 67

APPENDIX F: ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT ...................................................................... 70

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

District Website

https://www.charlotteorioles.com/

Board Policies

Board Policies are available at:

https://www.charlotteorioles.com/board-of-education/board-minutes-agendas-and-policies/

Addresses

378 State St.

Charlotte, Michigan 48813

Contact Information

High School Main Office: 541-5600

High School Attendance Line 541-5641

Fax:517-541-5625

Student Services:541-5600

Special Education:541-5630

Transportation:543-3400

Athletics:541-5160

Administration:

Superintendent: Dr. Mandy Stewart

Associate Superintendent for Business and Operations: Ms. Michelle Sine

Associate Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction: Mr. Nick Boucher

Director of Special Education and Student Supports: Ms. Gretchen McClellan-VanArsdale

Transportation Director: Mr. Nay Sebastian

High School Principal: Mr. Jonathon Royce

High School Vice Principal: Mrs. Sharee’ Burdick

Athletic Director: Mr. R.J. Guizzetti

Assistant Athletic Director: Mr. Mike Sparks

2023-2024 DISTRICT CALENDAR

2023-2024 DAILY SCHEDULE

School staff will supervise students on school grounds 5 minutes before the school day

begins and 7 minutes after the school day ends. Unless students are participating in

a school activity, school staff will not provide supervision before or after these

times.

DAILY SCHEDULES

Block 1 (72 Minutes) ........................................................................... 7:35-8:47

Block 2 (73 Minutes) .......................................................................... 8:52-10:05

Block 3 (72 Minutes) ......................................................................... 10:10-11:22

LUNCH (39 Minutes) ........................................................................ 11:22-12:01

Block 4 (72 Minutes) .......................................................................... 12:01-1:13

Block 5 (72 Minutes) ........................................................................... 1:18-2:30

TWO (2) HOUR EARLY RELEASE SCHEDULE

Block 1 (48 Minutes)----------------------------------------------------------------------- 7:35-8:23

Block 2 (48 Minutes)----------------------------------------------------------------------- 8:28-9:16

Block 3 (48 Minutes)----------------------------------------------------------------------- 9:21-10:09

Block 4 (48 Minutes)----------------------------------------------------------------------10:14-11:02

LUNCH (40 Minutes)----------------------------------------------------------------------11:02-11:42

Block 5 (48 Minutes)----------------------------------------------------------------------11:42-12:30

TWO HOUR DELAY

Block 1 (48 Minutes)----------------------------------------------------------------------- 9:35-10:23

Block 2 (48 Minutes)----------------------------------------------------------------------- 10:28-11:16

LUNCH (40 Minutes)----------------------------------------------------------------------- 11:16-11:56

Block 3 (48 Minutes)---------------------------------------------------------------------- 11:56-12:44

Block 4 (48 Minutes)----------------------------------------------------------------------------2:49-1:37

Block 5 (48 Minutes)----------------------------------------------------------------------------1:42-2:30

SHARED TIME BUS SCHEDULE

Morning LCC/Davenport/AIS departs High school …………6:40 am Returns 10:50am

(students report to class 10:40am)

Afternoon LCC/Davenport/AIS departs High School…………11:15am Returns 2:40PM

(transportation home is responsibility of student/family)

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING PROCEDURES

In the event of an emergency school closure, such as a bad weather day or when school

is unexpectedly closed early, the District will notify students, parents, and the general

public about the closure in the following manner: Skylert message, website, social media,

local radio and television stations.

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

The District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin,

ethnicity, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, or sexual orientation), disability, age,

height, weight, marital or family status, veteran status, ancestry, genetic information,

military status, or any other legally protected category (collectively, “Protected Classes”),

in its programs and activities, and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other

designated youth groups as required by law.

The District prohibits unlawful discrimination, including unlawful harassment and

retaliation. The District will investigate all allegations of unlawful discrimination and will

take appropriate action, including discipline, against any person who, following an

investigation, is determined to have engaged in unlawful discrimination.

“Unlawful harassment” is verbal, written, or physical conduct that denigrates or shows

hostility or aversion toward a person because of the person’s membership in a Protected

Class that has the purpose or effect of: (1) creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive

environment; or (2) unreasonably interfering with the person’s ability to benefit from the

District’s educational programs or activities.

• Race, color, and national origin harassment can take many forms, including,

but not limited to, slurs, taunts, stereotypes, or name-calling, as well as racially

motivated physical threats, attacks, or other hateful conduct. Harassment based

on ethnicity, ancestry, or perceived ancestral, ethnic, or religious characteristics is

considered race, color, and national origin harassment.

• Disability harassment can take many forms, including, but not limited to, slurs,

taunts, stereotypes, or name-calling, as well as disability-motivated physical

threats, attacks, or other hateful conduct.

• Sex-based harassment can take many forms. For the definition of sex-based

harassment, including sexual harassment under Title IX, see Policies 3118 and

5202. The District’s Title IX Policy is attached to this handbook as Appendix A.

Any student who witnesses an act of unlawful discrimination, including unlawful

harassment or retaliation, is encouraged to report it to District personnel. No student will

be retaliated against based on any report of suspected discrimination. A student may also

anonymously report an incident of unlawful discrimination. The District will investigate

anonymous reports pursuant to its investigation procedures described by Policy. Minor

students do not need parent permission to file complaints or participate in the formal

complaint resolution process described by Policy.

If you or someone you know has been subjected to sex-based discrimination,

harassment, or retaliation, you may file a report with any District employee. Formal

Complaints of sexual harassment must be filed with the Title IX Coordinator:

Mr. Nick Boucher

378 State Street

(517) 541-5106

Bouchea@charlottenet.org

If you or someone you know has been subjected to disability-based discrimination,

harassment, or retaliation, you may file a complaint with:

Ms. Gretchen McClellan-VanArsdale

378 State Street

(517) 541-5131

mcclelg@charlottenet.org

If you or someone you know has been subjected to any other type of unlawful

discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, including unlawful conduct based on race,

color, or national origin, you may file a complaint with:

Mr. Nick Boucher

378 State Street

(517) 541-5106

Bouchea@charlottenet.org

A report of unlawful discrimination, including unlawful harassment or retaliation, may be

made orally or in writing.

A student found to have engaged in unlawful discrimination, including unlawful

harassment or retaliation, may be subject to discipline, including suspension or expulsion,

consistent with Policy 5206.

SECTION I: DISTRICT-WIDE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Attendance

Students are expected to attend school every day school is in session. Students are to

arrive before the first class and stay until the scheduled end of their school day. If a

student is unable to attend school, the student or parent must report that absence to

Charlotte High School 517-541-5640 (7:15am – 3:45). Voicemail is available 24 hours a

day 7 days a week.

If a student arrives late, the student must sign in at the office. A student may only leave

school early if the student’s parent notifies the office or the student is an emancipated

minor or 18 years old with signed Age of Majority.

The following absences will be considered excused if they are confirmed by

communication to the school from the student’s parent:

● the student’s physical or mental illness (a physician’s verification is required after 4

consecutive days of absence for illness);

● medical appointments for the student;

● death or serious illness of the student’s family member;

● attendance at a funeral, wedding, or graduation;

● appearance at court or for other legal matters;

● observance of religious holidays of the student’s own faith

Students who arrive 5 minutes or less late to class are considered tardy. Students who

arrive to class more than 5 minutes late, but less than 15 will be marked A-AL (absences

due to lateness). A-AL will count as a tardy for reporting purposes.

Students that receive more than 3 tardies in a 1 week period will receive a 1 hour after

school detention. Students who fail to attend the 1 hour detention will be issues a

Saturday scho0l and loose privileges until served. Each week starts over, no

accumulations of tardies will occur.

A student who violates attendance expectations may be subject to discipline and any

other applicable consequences. Absences WILL be cumulative over a 9 week period for

the purpose of truancy laws.

Absences due to illness

The school will contact parents if a student becomes ill at school and may ask that the

parent pick up the student. A student who is absent due to illness has 1 days for each

day of absence to complete missed assignments.]

Planned absences

Parents who know in advance that a student will be absent must contact the school at the

earliest possible date. Students who will be absent for reasons that can be anticipated,

such as routine medical appointments and school activities, must complete any work

required by the teacher before the absence unless alternative arrangements are

approved by the teacher in advance. Parents should make every attempt to schedule

medical and other appointments outside of school hours.

Students are expected to:

• Complete all class work in advance for any absence that can be anticipated or

make alternative arrangements with their teacher in advance of the absence.

• Sign out of school at the office if leaving school during the school day.

• Make up all work that is assigned by teachers for the instructional time that has

been missed.

For more information, see Policy 5301.

Books and Supplies

The District will provide free instruction to all students and will not charge a fee for

materials necessary to complete required or elective courses. Students and parents may

purchase additional supplies at their own expense. The District may charge a reasonable

and refundable deposit to cover damage to textbooks and supplies. A teacher may

provide a list of suggested materials that students and parents may purchase. Purchasing

materials is voluntary and not required for curricular activities.

Students must take care of books and other supplies provided by the District. The District

may assess fees to repair or replace District property that is lost, damaged, stolen,

returned in a different condition, or not returned on time.

Bulletin Boards

Space may be provided within school buildings or on school electronic media for students

and student organizations to post notices about student groups. Rules for posting on

bulletin boards are found in Policy 5503.

Bullying

All types of student-on-student bullying, including cyberbullying, without regard to subject

matter or motivation, are prohibited. The District’s Anti-Bullying Policy is attached to this

handbook as Appendix B.

Cafeteria

Breakfast will be available before school. Those students who are eligible for free or

reduced priced lunches are also eligible for free or reduced priced breakfast. The price

for a complete school lunch and ala carte items will be posted in the high school cafeteria

and lobby. If you eat your lunch in the cafeteria, lobby, or outside courtyard, we ask that

you follow these simple rules:

CPAC and academic hallways are closed at lunchtime.

Food is allowed in designated areas only: Cafeteria, lobby and outside courtyard when

weather permits.

Deposit all lunch litter in wastebaskets.

Return all trays and utensils to the dishwasher area if in the cafeteria, or to the carts in

the lobby by the counter.

Leave the table and floor around your area clean.

Any students caught throwing food or not taking care of lunch trays/trash will be assigned

consequence, including but not limited to detention and/or cleanup responsibilities.

No food or drinks in the gymnasium.

Cell Phone Use

Students may use cell phones or other electronic devices while at school, so long as they

do so safely, responsibly, and respectfully, and comply with all other school rules while

using the devices.

Students are personally and solely responsible for the security of their cell phones and

other electronic devices. The District is not responsible for theft, loss, or damage of any

cell phone or other electronic device.

Students may not use cell phones or other electronic devices while they are in locker

rooms, restrooms, or any other area in which others may have a reasonable expectation

of privacy.

Taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing obscene, pornographic, lewd, or otherwise

illegal photographs, video, audio, or other similar data, whether by electronic data transfer

or otherwise (including via cell phone or other electronic device), may constitute a crime

under state or federal law. A student engaged in any of these activities at school, at a

school event, or on school-provided transportation, may be subject to discipline. A student

engaged in any of these activities outside of school may be disciplined if the student’s

activities substantially disrupt or negatively affect the school environment.

Teachers may also develop classroom rules for use of cell phones and other electronic

devices, up to and including the use of a Cell Phone Caddy. Teacher who use cell phone

caddies will clearly outline their classroom policy for the caddy use. Ie: when cell phones

are to be placed in the caddy as well as when they may be removed.

School administrators and teachers may confiscate a student’s cell phone or other

electronic device if the student’s use or possession of a cell phone or electronic device

violates Board Policy, the student code of conduct, or any applicable building or

classroom rule. The building principal or designee may require a meeting with the

student’s parent to discuss the rule violation before returning the cell phone or electronic

device.

Cheating, Plagiarism, and Academic Dishonesty

Students may not cheat, plagiarize, or otherwise participate in academic dishonesty in

any form. Unless specifically authorized by a teacher, prohibited behavior may include,

but is not limited to:

• Obtaining, attempting to obtain, or aiding another person in obtaining credit for

work by any dishonest or deceptive means.

• Copying another person’s work or answers.

• Discussing with other students the answers or questions on a test or assignment

before the test or assignment has been submitted for a grade.

• Taking or receiving copies of a test.

• Using or displaying notes, “cheat sheets,” or other sources of unauthorized

information.

• Using the ideas or work of another person as if they were your own without giving

proper credit to the source.

• Using artificial intelligence to assist or complete an assignment or test.

• Submitting work or any portion of work completed by another person.

A student who cheats, plagiarizes, or otherwise participates in any academic dishonesty

may receive no credit on that assignment or class and will be subject to discipline, up to

and including expulsion.

Children’s Protective Services Investigations

The District will cooperate with Children’s Protective Services (CPS) during an

investigation of suspected child abuse or neglect. Cooperation may include allowing CPS

access to a student without parent consent if CPS determines access is necessary to

complete the investigation or prevent abuse or neglect. As a matter of law, the identity of

an individual who makes a report of suspected child abuse or neglect is confidential and

will not be disclosed.

Classroom Behavior

Teachers may establish classroom conduct rules that students must follow. Classroom

rules should be clearly defined and posted in the classroom and in the course syllabi.

Communicable Diseases

The District, in conjunction with local health department officials, may exclude students

who:

• Are suspected of having a communicable disease until a physician or local health

department official determines the student is no longer a risk; or

• Lack documentation of immunity or are otherwise considered susceptible to a

communicable disease until the local health department officials determine the risk

of spreading the disease has passed.

Communicable diseases include, but are not limited to, diphtheria, scarlet fever, strep

infections, whooping cough, mumps, measles, rubella, COVID-19, and other conditions

indicated by the local and state health departments. Any removal will only be for the

contagious period or as directed by the local health department.

Damage to School Property

Students who damage school property either intentionally or unintentionally may be

subject to discipline and required to pay to replace or restore the property.

Dress and Grooming

In general, clothing should be clean and appropriate for the climate and the situation.

Student dress, hair style, make up, cleanliness, or personal appearance that is a threat

to the safety, health, or welfare of others; violates any statute, Policy 5101, or the Dress

Code; or substantially disrupts the educational environment or that school officials

reasonably forecast will substantially disrupt the educational environment, is grounds for

remedial or disciplinary action.

It is the responsibility of all staff to enforce the dress and grooming policy. The final

decision in any situation involving inappropriate attire rests with building administrators.

Students who are dressed inappropriately will be asked to change clothing immediately.

If necessary, parents will be called to bring appropriate clothing, students can use extra

clothing provided by the District, or the student may be sent home to change. Repeated

dress code violations may result in more severe consequences.

Dress Code

Tops must have straps or sleeves and must cover the student’s entire torso from armpit

to armpit. Pants, shorts, and skirts must have an inseam at least 4 inches in length.

Clothing may not display material that:

• Is materially and substantially disruptive or that school officials can reasonably

forecast will create a substantial disruption;

• Is obscene, sexually explicit, indecent, or lewd;

• Promotes the use of or advertises illegal substances, including but not limited to

substances illegal for minors;

• Incites violence;

• Contains “fighting words”;

• Constitutes a true threat of violence;

• Demonstrates hate group association/affiliation or uses hate speech targeting

groups based on their membership in a protected class; or

• Displays nipples, genitals, or buttocks.

Students who represent the District at an official or school-sponsored function or public

event (e.g., athletic teams, bands, choirs, and other groups) may be required to follow

specific dress requirements as a condition of participation or attendance.

Driving and Parking Personal Vehicles

Student driving and parking on District property is a privilege, not a right, which may be

revoked at any time. Students who drive to school must obey the following rules:

• Students may not move their vehicles, sit in, or be around their vehicles during the

school day without permission from administration.

• Students may not drive carelessly or with excessive speed on school grounds.

• By driving to school and parking on school grounds, students and parents consent

to having that vehicle searched when school officials have reasonable suspicion

that a search will reveal a violation of school rules, Board Policy, or law.

• Students MUST register their vehicle in the main office within 10 school days of

driving.

• There is a one (1) time fee of $5.00 dollars to cover permit. Permit is good until

graduation. Permits MUST be displayed at all times.

• Students must update vehicle information if they change or add a vehicle.

• Parking is allowed ONLY in the large student parking lot behind CPAC. Parking in

any other areas, such as the staff parking, CPAC parking or fire lane WILL result

in disciplinary action. Towing at owner expense may occur.

Failure to follow parking and driving rules may result in the loss of privilege to drive

and park on school grounds

Emergency Contact Information

Parents must provide emergency information for each student enrolled in the District. The

information should include the family physician’s name, contact information for parents or

a responsible adult, and any necessary emergency instructions. Parents must promptly

inform the school if this contact information changes.

Fees

The District will not charge students a fee to participate in curricular activities. The District

may charge students a fee to participate in extracurricular and noncurricular activities to

cover the District’s reasonable costs. The District may require students to furnish

specialized equipment and clothing required for participation in extracurricular and

noncurricular activities or may charge a reasonable fee for the use of District-owned

equipment or clothing. The activity’s coach or sponsor will provide students with

information about the fees charged and the equipment or clothing required.

Food Services

Breakfast: $2.25

Lunch: $3.25

Ala-Cart: Prices vary depending on item

Field Trips

Classes occasionally take field trips off school property for educational enrichment. Each

student must submit a completed permission form signed by the student’s parent before

being allowed to attend a field trip.

A student’s failure to comply with Board Policy, the Student Code of Conduct, or any other

applicable rules or behavioral expectations while on a field trip may result in disciplinary

action and removal or exclusion from the trip or future field trips.

Students who have not met academic or behavioral expectations may not be allowed to

attend field trips.

First Aid, Illness, or Injury at School

Students who feel ill or are hurt while at school should seek immediate assistance from

their classroom teacher or the nearest staff member.

When the building principal or designee determines that a student is too ill or injured to

remain at school, school staff will contact the student’s parent or other designated

responsible adult to pick up the student from school. If the student requires immediate

medical attention, the District will first attempt to contact a parent or other designated

responsible adult when reasonably possible. If contact cannot be made, the building

principal or designee will take any reasonable action necessary on the student’s behalf,

consistent with state law.

Students showing symptoms of a communicable disease may be sent home. The District

may require a statement from a licensed physician or local health official before allowing

the student to return to school.

Head Lice

A student with nits within ¼ inch of the scalp or live lice may remain at school until the

end of the school day. The student will be restricted from activities that involve close head-

to-head contact or sharing of personal items. The District will notify the student’s parent

and provide educational materials on head lice prevention and treatment.

The student will be readmitted to school after treatment so long as the parent consents

to a head examination and the examining District official does not find live lice on the

student. If the District official finds nits within ¼ inch of the student’s scalp, the student

may return to class, but the District must inform the student’s parent about the need to

remove the nits. District personnel will not ostracize or embarrass a student with lice or

nits and will maintain student confidentiality.

If a student has a persistent infestation after 6 weeks or 3 separate cases within 1 school

year, the District will form a team that may include the student’s parents, teacher, social

workers, or administrators to determine the best approach to resolve the issue.

Homeless Children and Youth

The District will provide a free public education to homeless children and youth who are

in the District and will afford them the educational rights and legal protections provided by

federal and state law. Homeless children and youth will not be stigmatized or segregated

based on their homeless status and will have the same access to services offered to

students who are not homeless.

A student or parent in a homeless situation who requires assistance should contact the

District’s homeless liaison:

Ms. Gretchen McClellan-VanArsdale

378 State Street

(517) 541-5131

mcclelg@charlottenet.org

For detailed information about Homeless Children and Youth, see Policy 5307.

Immunizations

For a student entering the District for the first time or entering 7th grade, a parent must

provide the building principal or designee with a certificate stating that the student has

received at least 1 dose of an immunizing agent against each disease specified by the

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) or other responsible

agency or documentation of an applicable approved exemption.

The student’s parent must provide the certificate or documentation at the time of

registration, or no later than the first day of school. A parent of a student who has not

received all doses of any required immunizing agent must provide the District an updated

immunization certificate demonstrating that the immunizations have been completed as

required by the MDHHS. The updated certificate must be provided within 4 months of the

student entering the District for the first time or upon entering 7th grade. The District will

not permit a student to attend school unless the parent provides evidence of

immunizations or exemptions consistent with Policy 5713 and state law.

Law Enforcement Interviews

Law enforcement officers may be called to the school at the request of school

administration. Students may be questioned by law enforcement consistent with Policy

5201. Students may be questioned by school officials at any time, without parent notice

or consent, consistent with the District’s obligation to maintain a safe and orderly learning

environment.

Limited English Proficiency

Limited proficiency in the English language should not be a barrier to a student’s equal

participation in the District’s instructional or extracurricular programs. Those students

identified as having limited English proficiency will be provided additional support and

instruction to assist them in gaining English proficiency and in accessing the educational

and extra-curricular programs offered by the District.

Locker Use

Pursuant to Policy 5102, lockers are District property and may be made available for

student use. Lockers are assigned to students on a temporary basis, and District

administration may revoke a student’s locker assignment at any time. The District retains

ownership of lockers notwithstanding student use.

Students have no expectation of privacy in their lockers. The building principal or

designee may inspect lockers without any particularized suspicion or reasonable cause

and without advance notice. Upon the request of the building principal or designee, law

enforcement may assist with searching lockers.

During a locker search, student privacy rights will be respected for any items that are not

illegal or violate Board Policy or building rules.

Student who wish to have a locker assigned need to complete Locker request form

located in the main office. Lockers assigned will remain the students’ locker until

graduation or withdrawing from CHS.

Students are encouraged to NOT share lockers with others.

Lost and Found

All lost and found items are to be taken to the High School main office.. Students may

claim lost articles there. Unclaimed items may be donated to a local charity or otherwise

disposed of at the conclusion of each semester.

Media Center

Students must check out materials from the media specialist or designee on duty. Each

borrower is responsible for all materials checked out in the borrower’s name. Each

student is responsible for any fine that accumulates on materials charged to the student.

If materials are lost and not returned by the end of the semester, the student must pay for

the replacement cost. Students must also pay for any damage they cause to materials.

Medication

Whenever possible, parents should arrange student medication schedules to eliminate

the need for administration of medication at school. When a student requires prescription

or over-the-counter medication at school, the following procedures apply:

• The student’s parent must annually submit a written request and consent form as

required by the District.

• A building principal or designee must request that the parent supply medications

in the exact dosage required whenever feasible.

• The building principal or designee will notify the student’s parent of any observed

adverse reaction to medication.

• All medications must be in the original container.

For additional information and requirements, see Policy 5703.

Asthma Inhalers and Epinephrine Auto-Injectors/Inhalers

A student may possess and use an asthma inhaler or epinephrine auto-injector or inhaler

with written approval from the student’s healthcare provider and consistent with Policy

5703. A minor student must also have written permission from the student’s parent. The

required documentation must be submitted to the building principal or designee. If a

student is authorized to self-possess or self-administer an asthma inhaler or epinephrine

auto-injector or inhaler, the building principal or designee will notify the student’s teachers

and other staff as appropriate.

Additionally, the school must maintain a written emergency care plan drafted by a

physician in collaboration with the student’s parent. The emergency care plan will contain

specific instructions related to the student’s needs. The physician and parent should

update the emergency care plan as necessary to address any changes in the student’s

medical circumstances.

Parties

Classes may have seasonal or curriculum-related parties during the year. Students must

follow all expectations and rules established by the teacher or other relevant staff during

the party. Invitations for private parties and non-school-sponsored events may not be

distributed in the classroom.

Protection of Pupil Rights

The District respects the rights of parents and their children and has adopted a Protection

of Pupil Rights policy as required by law. The policy is available on the District’s website

or upon request from the District’s administrative office. Parents may opt their child out of

participation in activities identified by the Protection of Pupil Rights policy by submitting a

written request to the Superintendent. Parents may have access to any survey or other

material described in the Protection of Pupil Rights policy by submitting a written request

to the Superintendent. A copy of the District’s annual notice to parents regarding the

Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment is attached as Appendix C.

Public Display of Affection

Students may not engage in public display of affection that are disruptive to the school

environment or distracting to others. Students may receive disciplinary consequences for

behavior including detention, Saturday school or suspension.

Rights of Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents

Unless a parent has provided the building principal or designee with a court order that

provides otherwise, District personnel will treat each parent, regardless of custody or

visitation rights, the same as to accessing student records, meeting and conferring with

District personnel, visiting a child at school, and transporting a child to or from school.

District personnel are not responsible for enforcing visitation or parenting time orders.

Parents, regardless of custodial status, will be provided information about conference

times so both parents may attend a single conference. The District is not required to

schedule separate conferences if both parents have been previously informed of

scheduled conference times.

If either or both parents’ behavior is disruptive, staff may terminate a conference and

reschedule it with appropriate modifications or expectations.

Search and Seizure

To maintain order and discipline in school and protect the safety and welfare of students

and school personnel, school authorities may search a student or the student’s personal

effects (e.g., purse, book bag, athletic bag) as permitted by law and may seize any illegal,

unauthorized, or contraband materials discovered in the search. As noted in “Locker Use,”

student lockers and desks are school property and remain at all times under the District’s

control. Student lockers and desks are subject to search at any time for any reason and

without notice or consent.

School officials may use canines, metal detectors, wands, or other tools to conduct

searches.

A student’s failure to permit a search and seizure may be grounds for disciplinary action.

A student’s person and personal effects may be searched whenever a school official has

reasonable suspicion to believe that the student possesses illegal or unauthorized

materials. If a properly conducted search yields illegal or contraband materials, these

items may be turned over to law enforcement.

Student Education Records

The District may collect, retain, use, and disclose student education records consistent

with state and federal law. See Policy 5309 for an overview of the District’s collection,

retention, use, and disclosure of student records.

Parents may inspect and review their minor child’s education records, regardless of

custody status, unless a court order specifies otherwise. An eligible student (i.e., a student

who is 18 years or older or an emancipated minor) may also inspect and review their

education records.

Right to Request Explanation or Interpretation

A parent or eligible student may request, in writing, an explanation or interpretation of a

student’s education records. School officials will respond to any reasonable request.

Right to Request Amendment of Education Records

A parent or eligible student may request that a student’s education record be amended if

the parent or eligible student believes the record is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise

in violation of the student’s privacy rights as explained in Policy 5309.

Directory Information

The District designates the following information as directory information:

a. student names, addresses, and telephone numbers;

b. photographs, including photographs and videos depicting a student’s

participation in school-related activities and classes;

c. date and place of birth;

d. major field of study;

e. grade level;

f. enrollment status (e.g., full-time or part-time);

g. dates of attendance (e.g., 2013-2017);

h. participation in officially recognized activities and sports;

i. weight and height of athletic team members;

j. degrees, honors, and awards received; and

k. the most recent educational agency or institution attended.

The Board further designates District-assigned student email addresses as directory

information for the limited purposes of: (1) facilitating the student’s participation in and

access to online learning platforms and applications; and (2) inclusion in internal school

and District email address books

School officials may disclose “directory information” without the prior written consent of a

parent or eligible student unless the parent or eligible student specifically notifies the

District that the parent or eligible student does not consent to the disclosure of the

student’s directory information for 1 or more of the uses for which the District would

commonly disclose the information.

A Directory Information Opt Out Form is attached to this handbook as Appendix D. This

form allows the parent or eligible student to elect not to have the student’s directory

information disclosed for 1 or more of the listed uses. Upon receipt of a completed

Directory Information Opt Out Form, school officials may not release the student’s

directory information for any of the uses selected on the form.

Technology

Use of District technology resources is a privilege, not a right. Students are expected to

use computers, the Internet, and other District technology resources for school-related

educational purposes only. Students and their parents are required to sign and return the

Acceptable Use Agreement attached as Appendix E before they may use or access

District technology resources. Students who violate the District’s Acceptable Use

Agreement may have technology privileges terminated or suspended and may be subject

to discipline, up to and including expulsion.

Transportation Services

School Vehicle Rules

Riding in school vehicles is a privilege, not a right. Students must comply with the

following rules and all school conduct rules and directives while riding in school vehicles.

In addition, students must comply with the Student Code of Conduct while in school

vehicles.

When in school vehicles, the following rules apply:

• Students must promptly comply with any directive given by the driver.

• Students must wait in a safe place for the vehicle to arrive, clear of traffic and away

from where the vehicle stops.

• Students may not fight or engage in bullying, harassment, or horseplay while riding

or waiting for school vehicles.

• Students must enter the vehicle without crowding or disturbing others and go

directly to a seat.

• Students must remain seated and keep aisles and exits clear while the vehicle is

moving.

• Students may not throw or pass objects on, from, or into vehicles.

• Students may not use profane language, obscene gestures, tobacco, alcohol,

drugs, or any other controlled substance on the vehicles.

• Students may not carry weapons, look-a-like weapons, hazardous materials,

nuisance items, or animals onto the vehicle.

• Students may converse in ordinary tones and volumes but may not be loud or

boisterous and should avoid talking to the driver while the vehicle is moving.

Students must be absolutely quiet when the vehicle approaches a railroad crossing

and any time the driver calls for quiet.

• Students may not open windows without the driver’s permission. Students may not

dangle body parts or other items (e.g., legs, arms, backpacks) out of the windows.

• Students must secure any item(s) that could break or cause injury if tossed about

the inside of the vehicle if the vehicle were involved in an accident.

• Students must respect the rights and safety of others at all times.

• Students must help keep the vehicle clean, sanitary, and orderly. Students must

remove all personal items and trash upon exiting.

• Students may not vandalize or intentionally cause damage to the vehicle.

• Students may not leave or board the vehicle at locations other than the assigned

stops at home or school unless approved prior to departure by the superintendent

or designee.

Video cameras may be placed on vehicles and buses to monitor student behavior on the

vehicle/bus. Exceptions or modifications to these rules may be made as necessary to

accommodate a student with a disability.

School Vehicle Misconduct Consequences

Students who violate the school vehicle rules will be referred to the transportation

department for discipline. Disciplinary consequences may include parent notification,

suspension of vehicle/bus riding privileges, exclusion from extracurricular activities, in-

school suspension, and suspension or expulsion.

These consequences are not progressive and school officials have discretion to impose

any listed consequence they deem appropriate in accordance with state and federal law

and board policy.

Records of vehicle misconduct will be forwarded to the appropriate building principal and

will be maintained in the same manner as other student discipline records. Reports of

serious misconduct may be reported to law enforcement.

Video Surveillance and Photographs

The District may monitor any District building, facility, property, bus, or vehicle with video

recording equipment other than areas where a person has a legally recognized and

reasonable expectation of privacy (e.g., restrooms and locker rooms). Except in those

school areas, a person has no expectation of privacy.

The District may use video recordings for any lawful purpose, including student discipline,

assisting law enforcement, or investigations.

Students may not make recordings: on school property; when on a vehicle owned, leased,

or contracted by the District; or at a school-sponsored activity or athletic event unless

otherwise authorized by Policies 5210 or 5805, applicable law, or a District employee.

Withdrawal From School

Students who are transferring from the District must submit written notice to the building

principal at least 1 week before the withdrawal.

SECTION II: ACADEMICS

To encourage students and parents to stay apprised of student academic information,

grades, attendance, and other information can be accessed via Skyward

To register for Skyward, contact Emily Nenortas, District Registrar (517) 541- 5105

Senior Honors and Grade Point Average:

Home School and Foreign Exchange students must be in full-time attendance at a public,

private or accredited charter school for at least six semesters to earn graduation honors.

Senior Honor and/or Outstanding academic students must meet all academic and

attendance requirements and have NO major discipline issues during their high school

career.

The valedictorian and salutatorian, and Top 10 students must have met DAS

requirements and have NO major discipline issues during their high school career.

For the purpose of reporting honors status and class rank, final grade point average

(GPA) will be determined by the cumulative grade point average at the end of the first

semester of the senior year. Grade point will NOT include summer school,

correspondence or night school classes. Final transcripts, which are sent to colleges, will

include fourth term grades. The grade point average is calculated three decimal places

to determine class rank (example: 3.512).

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

AP Art

AP Biology

AP Calculus

AP Computer Science Principles

AP Computer Science

AP English

AP European History

AP U.S. Government

AP Physics I

AP Physics II

AP U.S. History

CHARLOTTE PROJECT SUCCESS

Charlotte Public School’s Project Success represents an innovative approach to helping

all students succeed. It is designed to allow students to successfully complete the

Michigan Merit high school curriculum and graduation requirements in a project based

learning environment.

The curriculum is individualized for students and coursework is built to ensure that the

students are learning content that will be necessary for successful graduation and

preparation for life after high school, whether that life is higher learning or career

focused.

Question regarding program should be directed to the guidance office or your

counselor.

Commencement

The District may conduct a commencement ceremony for eligible students at the end of

the school year. Participation in the ceremony is a privilege, not a right. Students may be

prohibited from participating in the ceremony as a consequence for misconduct. A

student’s disqualification from participating in the commencement ceremony does not

impact the issuance of a diploma to the student, provided that all graduation requirements

have been satisfied.

Credits and Graduation Requirements

A student must successfully complete all graduation requirements to earn a high school

diploma. Participation in commencement signifies that a student has successful earned

37 credits required for a CHS diploma.

Students MUST have earned ALL 37 credits prior to seniors last day to walk at graduation.

Students who have NOT earned 37 credit prior to seniors last day may still earn their

diploma when requirements are met, BUT will not participate in the ceremony.

Seniors must meet all state and local requirements, and miss no more than three (3) days

(excused or unexcused) during the 4

term to participate in commencement. Absences

due to appointments, funerals, extended illnesses, pre-arranged vacations or school

related absences do NOT count toward the 3 absences. Students who exceed the three

(3) days will be allowed to make up time missed, following seniors last day to participate

in commencement. Make-up time may include but are not limited to assisting staff with

end of the year projects, and/or cleaning up areas around the school.

Senior Release form: Prior to leaving a senior MUST complete a release form. This

verifies that all accounts are current, textbooks, technology, Media center books and

athletic uniforms are returned.

Early Graduation

Seniors who have complete their graduation requirements by the end the first semester

MAY choose to not attend school for second semester. Students who opt for Early

Graduation, will forfeit their privilege to participate in athletics. Students may attend

Prom, Honors Convocation and commencement providing they adhere to all school rules

and policies.

Graduation credits

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS

5 Credits to include:

• English Language Arts 9

• English Language Arts 10

• English Language Arts 11

• English Language Arts 12 or AP

English

• Composition or Adv. Composition

SOCIAL STUDIES

3 Credits to include:

• U.S. History & Geography or AP

US History

• World History & Geography

• Government/Economics or AP

Government

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & HEALTH

1 Credit (½ PE & ½ Health)

WORLD LANGUAGE

2 Credits of same language

VISUAL PERFORMING & APPLIED

ARTS

1 Credit Includes Band, Choir, Art,

Business, Agriculture, Life Skills &

Vocational-Technical Education Classes

SCIENCE

3 Credits to include:

• Biology

• Earth Science

• Chemistry, Physical Science or

Physics

SOCIAL STUDIES

3 Credits to include:

• U.S. History & Geography or AP

US History

• World History & Geography

• Government/Economics or AP

Government

MATHEMATICS: 4- credits to include:

• Algebra I

• Geometry

• Algebra 2A

• Algebra 2B

• Math Related Course in Senior Year

ON-LINE LEARNING EXPERIENCE

Course, Learning or Integrated Learning Experience. (At this time this requirement is met

by use of IPAD & Apps. in courses taken in the 7

-12

grades.).

DAS Distinguished Academic Scholar

Charlotte High School offers diploma endorsements for Distinguished Academic Students

(DAS).Students are encouraged to exceed graduation requirements based on their

abilities, interests, and occupational plans. Students completing the DAS program will

receive an embossed seal and will be recognized at the senior Honors Convocation. In

addition to meeting standard graduation requirements, DAS students must:

● Have an overall 3.0 GPA and earn at least a 3.0 in DAS-required courses, and

in all dual enrollment and online courses used as substitutes for DAS requirements

regardless of whether they are taken for Credit/No Credit rather than a grade.

Principal approval is needed for any substitutions.

● Take 8 Credits from the list below with expectations based on the following:

o For graduation classes starting with 2024, including at least 1 course

from each of the 4 core subject areas.

English

Advanced Placement English

Advanced Composition

*Students may only count 1 of these

courses

toward DAS credit requirements.

Mathematics

Pre-Calculus

Advanced Placement Calculus

Social Studies

AP U.S. History

AP European History

AP Government

*Psychology

*Sociology

* Vietnam

* Michigan History

Science

Anatomy & Physiology I

Anatomy & Physiology I I

AP Physics 1

AP Physics 2

AP Biology

Physics

*Civil Rights

* Students may only count 1 of these courses toward DAS requirements.

Earn College Level Credit

● Submit a written application to their Counselor in the fall of senior year.

● Graduate with 40 or more credits.

● Complete at least 3 AP Courses or a combination of college credit and AP

courses equal to 3 total courses. 1 of the 3 AP courses may be earned outside of

the core subjects; however, all other DAS requirements remain in place.

● Take at least 2 DAS credits during the regularly-scheduled senior year

Dropping or Adding a Class

Dropping an 18-week, 27-week or full year course will result in loss of credit for the first

term/semester. Credit is awarded based on completion of the full course. Under

extenuating circumstances a student may submit a request to drop an 18-week, 27-week

or full year course without loss of credit (teacher recommendation required). Students are

responsible for completing the request form and getting parent and teacher

recommendations and signatures. Class drop forms are available in the office.

Students who wish to make a schedule change need to meet with the counselor and

complete forms located in the main office.

Drops and adds of a class must be done the first week of classes.

Dual Enrollment

Students in grades 9 and above may be eligible to dually enroll in college classes to obtain

high school and college credit. Please contact your assigned counselor for information

about enrollment eligibility, charges paid by the District, eligible institutions, and other

matters related to dual enrollment.

Grades

Report cards will be issued at least once each semester. Grades are calculated using the

following grading scale:

GRADE GRADE POINT GRADE

GRADE

POINT

4.0

2.0

A-

3.8

C-

1.8

B+

3.5

D+

1.5

3.0

1.0

B-

2.8

D-

C+

2.5

Homework

Classroom teachers may assign homework. Parents who have questions about

homework or concerns about class work should contact their student’s teacher.

Each student is expected to spend time preparing for classes outside of school hours.

The amount of time that is needed will depend upon each student and each class.

Personal Curriculum

For some students, it may be appropriate to modify the Michigan Merit Curriculum through

implementation of a personal curriculum. All students who have completed 9

grade are

entitled to a personal curriculum, and the District will implement a personal curriculum for

a student if requested by a parent or by the student if the student is age 18 or older. Any

modification to the Michigan Merit Curriculum must be consistent with Michigan law and

must incorporate as much of the Michigan Merit Curriculum content standards as

practicable for the student. The District retains discretion to determine what modifications

to the Michigan Merit Curriculum are appropriate for a particular student through a

personal curriculum. A student who successfully completes an approved personal

curriculum will earn a regular high school diploma.

To request a personal curriculum, please contact your students Guidance Counselor.

& 10

grade Ms. Michelle Swarbrick 541-5621

&12

grade Mrs. Stephanie Leavitt 541- 5622

For additional information about the Michigan Merit Curriculum and Personal Curriculum,

see Policy 5409.

Placement

The District has the sole discretion to make promotion, retention, and placement

decisions for its students, consistent with state and federal law. The District may consider

parent requests that a student be placed in a particular classroom, building, educational

program, or grade. The District’s placement decision is final.

Students with Disabilities

Eligible students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

(IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act are entitled to a free appropriate public

education. The District will follow state and federal law and applicable rules and

regulations in identifying, locating, evaluating, and educating students with disabilities.

A parent who believes their student is eligible for special education or accommodations

due to a disability or suspected disability should contact

Ms. Gretchen McClellan-VanArsdale

378 State Street

(517) 541-5131

mcclelg@charlottenet.org

Testing Out

A student may test out of high school classes and earn credit. Students interested in

testing out of a class should review Policy 5409 and make arrangements with their

assigned counselor.

In order to “test out”, students need to exhibit mastery of the subject matter by attaining

a grade of not less than a C+ (77%) on a final exam.. The student may be required to

demonstrate mastery through basic assessments used in the course such as portfolio,

performance, paper, project, or presentation, in addition to or in lieu of, a final exam.

Teachers and counselors are not responsible for tutoring or providing instruction relative

to students “testing out” of the course.

Please note that by “testing out” of a course, a student will miss participation in

discussions, classroom activities and opportunities to develop the skills which are

nurtured by daily contact with the teacher and fellow students. Students may not request

to test out of a course for which they are taking at the time of application. The test out

must be completed before the student begins the course. Applications are available in the

office

Testing Out Schedule

Beginning of September- Applications available in the office

End of September – Completed applications are due to the principal

Beginning of October – Class test-out packets available

Beginning of December – All required coursework is due/final exam is taken

Work Permits

Information about work permits is available at the High School main office during the

school year or in the Central Office administrative office in the summer.

SECTION III: STUDENT CLUBS, ACTIVITIES, AND ATHLETICS

Students are encouraged to participate in the various student clubs, activities, and

athletics offered by the District.

For the 2023-2024 school year, the High School offers the following student clubs,

activities, and athletics:

Athletics

Band

Business Professionals

of America (BPA)

E-Sports

Art Club

Choir

Club International

FFA

L.I.N.K.S

Mentoring

National Honor Society

Quiz Bowl

Student Council

A student’s failure to comply with Policy, the Student Code of Conduct, or any other applicable rules

or behavioral expectations while participating in or attending a student club, activity, or athletic

competition, meeting, event, or practice, may result in disciplinary action.

Extracurricular Activities

Participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege, not a right. Students are encouraged to

participate in extracurricular activities. Participation is open to students who meet the eligibility

requirements established by the District and any applicable governing body.

The District has exclusive control over extracurricular activities including, but not limited to, formation,

naming, structure, operation, financing, and discontinuance.

Student athletes are also subject to the Athletic Code of Conduct (see Appendix F) and any applicable

team rules.

For more information, see Policy 5507.

Student-Initiated Non-Curricular Clubs

Students may voluntarily form clubs that are not directly related to the school curriculum to promote

activities unrelated to curriculum. Membership in a student-initiated, non-curricular club must be open

to all interested and eligible District students, and the club may not refuse membership to a student

based on any protected classification under state or federal law.

For more information about student-initiated non-curricular clubs, including how to form a club, see

Policy 5510.

Transportation To/From Extracurricular Activities

The District may provide transportation to students who participate in school-sponsored events. If

District-provided transportation is available, students must ride to and from those events in a school

vehicle unless otherwise excused by the activity sponsor.

SECTION IV: DISCIPLINE AND CODE OF CONDUCT

Discipline Generally

The District may discipline students who engage in misconduct, up to and including suspension or

expulsion from school.

The District will take steps to effectively discipline students in a manner that appropriately minimizes

out-of-school suspensions and expulsions. The District will comply with applicable laws related to

student discipline, including the consideration of specific factors and possible use of restorative

practices.

If an administrator determines that an emergency requires the immediate removal of a student from

school, the administrator may contact the student’s parent or local law enforcement or take other

measures to have the student safely removed from school.

Students who are involved in extracurricular activities and engage in misconduct may face

consequences related to the activity in addition to the consequences provided in this handbook.

The District reserves the right to refer to an appropriate non-school agency any act or conduct which

may constitute a crime. The District will cooperate with those agencies in their investigations as

permitted by law.

The District’s rules and policies apply to any student who is on school property or school-affiliated

transportation, who is in attendance at school or at any school-sponsored activity or function, or whose

conduct at any time or place directly interferes with the operation, discipline, or general welfare of the

school, regardless of location, date, or time.

Forms of School Discipline & Applicable Due Process

After-School Detention

Teachers and administrators may require students to stay after school to serve a detention when the

student violates any of the rules contained in this handbook or violates classroom-specific conduct

rules set by individual teachers.

Students who ride the bus home from school will be given a 24-hour notice of a detention so that

parents may make transportation arrangements for the student the following day.

Students who fail to attend a teacher assigned detention may receive a Saturday school.

Saturday School

The building administrator may require a student to attend Saturday School. Students follow strict

rules and must work on assignments the entire time, except for short breaks. Students who do not

follow Saturday School rules will be removed and will face further disciplinary action.

Snap Suspension - Suspension from Class, Subject, or Activity by Teacher

A teacher may suspend a student from any class, subject, or activity for up to 1 full school day if the

teacher has good reason to believe that the student:

1. intentionally disrupted the class, subject, or activity;

2. jeopardized the health or safety of any of the other participants in the class, subject, or activity;

3. was insubordinate during the class, subject, or activity.

Any teacher who suspends a student from a class, subject, or activity must immediately report the

suspension and its reason to the building principal or designee. If a student is suspended from a class,

subject, or activity, but will otherwise remain at school, the building principal or designee must ensure

that the student is appropriately supervised during the suspension and, if the student is a student with

a disability, that all procedures applicable to students with disabilities are followed.

Any teacher who suspends a student from a class, subject, or activity MUST, as soon as possible

following the suspension, contact parents and request that the student’s parent attend a

parent/teacher conference to discuss the suspension. The building principal or designee must attend

the conference if either the teacher or the parent requests the building principal’s attendance. The

building principal or designee must make reasonable efforts to invite a school counselor, school

psychologist, or school social worker to attend the conference.

Removal for 10 or Fewer School Days

Before a student is suspended for 10 or fewer school days, an administrator will: (1) provide the

student verbal notice of the offense the student is alleged to have committed, and (2) provide the

student an informal opportunity to respond and explain what happened. Except in emergency

circumstances, an administrator will not suspend the student unless, after providing the student notice

and an opportunity to explain, the administrator is reasonably certain that the student committed a

violation of the Student Code of Conduct and that suspension is the appropriate consequence. The

building administrator will consider the 7 factors provided in the Student Code of Conduct before

suspending a student.

Removal for More than 10 and Fewer than 60 School Days

Before a student is suspended for more than 10 school days but less than 60 school days, the

Superintendent or designee will provide the parent or student with: (1) written notice of the offense

the student is suspected to have committed; (2) an explanation of the evidence relied upon by the

District in arriving at the conclusion that disciplinary action may be warranted; and (3) an opportunity

for a hearing at which the student may present evidence and witnesses to show that the student did

not commit the alleged offense or that suspension is not an appropriate consequence.

The Superintendent or designee will provide the parent or student at least 3 calendar days’ notice

before the hearing. The parent and student may be represented, at their cost, by an attorney or

another adult advocate at the hearing.

The Superintendent or designee will not suspend the student unless, following the hearing, he or she

is convinced by a preponderance of the evidence that the student committed a violation of the Student

Code of Conduct and that suspension is the appropriate consequence. The Superintendent or

designee will consider the 7 factors noted in the Student Code of Conduct before suspending a

student.

A parent or student may appeal the Superintendent’s or designee’s decision to the Board. The appeal

must be submitted to the Board within 3 calendar days of the decision. The Board will hear the appeal

at its next regularly scheduled meeting. The Board’s decision is final. The student’s suspension will

run while the appeal is pending.

Removal for 60 or More School Days

Before the Board suspends or expels a student, the Superintendent or designee must provide the

parent or student with: (1) written notice of the offense the student is suspected to have committed;

(2) an explanation of the evidence relied upon by the District in arriving at the conclusion that

disciplinary action may be warranted; and (3) an opportunity for a Board hearing at which the student

may present evidence and witnesses to show that the student did not commit the suspected offense

or that suspension or expulsion is not an appropriate consequence.

The Superintendent or designee will provide the parent or student at least 3 calendar days’ notice

before the hearing. The parent and student may be represented, at their cost, by an attorney or

another adult advocate at the hearing.

The Board will not suspend or expel the student unless, following the hearing, a majority of the Board

finds by a preponderance of the evidence that the student committed misconduct that should result in

suspension or expulsion under either the Student Code of Conduct or Board Policy and that

suspension or expulsion is the appropriate consequence. The Board will consider the 7 factors noted

in the Student Code of Conduct before suspending or expelling a student. The Board’s decision is

final.

Student Code of Conduct

This Student Code of Conduct is meant to be a guide and is subject to the discretion of administration

and the Board.

Administration will, as required or permitted by state law, always consider the use of restorative

practices as an alternative to, or in addition to suspension or expulsion. Nothing in the following table

limits the District’s ability to impose more or less severe disciplinary consequences depending on the

situation’s unique circumstances and the following factors:

1. the student’s age;

2. the student’s disciplinary history;

3. whether the student has a disability;

4. the seriousness of the behavior;

5. whether the behavior posed a safety risk;

6. whether restorative practices will be used to address the behavior; and

7. whether a lesser intervention would properly address the behavior.

Nothing in this handbook limits the District’s authority to discipline a student for conduct that is

inappropriate in school, but that is not specifically provided in this table. Depending on the

circumstances of a particular situation, separate athletic or extracurricular sanctions may be imposed,

in accordance with the applicable handbook or rules.

Prohibited Conduct

Potential Consequence(s)

Illegal Substances or Paraphernalia, including

Alcohol: possession, sale, attempted sale, distribution,

attempted distribution, use, or attempted use of drugs,

alcohol, fake drugs, illegal steroids, illegal inhalants, or

look-alike drugs

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or Expulsion

• Police Referral

Tobacco/Nicotine: possession, sale, attempted sale,

distribution, attempted distribution, use, or attempted

use of any form of tobacco, including vaping devices or

supplies.

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or Expulsion

• Police Referral

Disrespect or Insubordination: violating a school rule

or directive.

Disruptive Behavior or Disorderly Conduct:

disrupting the

learning environment or school activity

• Restorative Practices

• Detention

• Saturday School

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or Expulsion

Dangerous Weapon Possession:

firearm, dagger,

dirk, stiletto, knife with a blade over 3 inches in length,

pocketknife opened by a mechanical device, iron bar,

or brass knuckles.

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or

Permanent Expulsion

• Police Referral

Other Weapons and Look-Alike Weapons

Possession:

an object that is not a “dangerous

weapon,” including but not limited to a pellet or air-soft

gun, a knife with a blade of 3 inches or less, items

intended to look like a dangerous weapon, or similar

items.

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or

Permanent Expulsion

• Police Referral

Use of an Object as a Weapon: any object used to

threaten or harm another, regardless of whether injury

results.

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or

Permanent Expulsion

• Police Referral

Arson: purposefully, intentionally, or maliciously setting

a fire on school property.

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or

Permanent Expulsion

• Police Referral

Physical Assault (Student to Student): causing or

attempting to cause physical harm to another through

intentional use of force or violence.

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or Expulsion

up to 180 school days

• Police Referral

Physical Assault (Student to Employee, Volunteer,

or Contractor): c

ausing or attempting to cause

physical harm to another through intentional use of

force or violence.

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or

Permanent Expulsion

• Police Referral

Verbal or Written Threat, including Bomb or Similar

Threat: statement that constitutes a threat against a

student, employee, other person, or school property.

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or Expulsion

• Police Referral

Plagiarism, Cheating, or other F

alsification of

Schoolwork: submitting work that is not your own,

including copying from others’ work.

• Credit Loss or Grade

Reduction

• Detention

• Saturday School

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or Expulsion

Discrimination, Harassment (including Sexual

Harassment), and Bullying: violating Board Policy

addressing anti-discrimination, anti-

harassment, and

anti-bullying.

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or Expulsion

Criminal Sexual Conduct: commits criminal sexual

conduct in a school building or on school grounds; or

pleads to, is convicted of, or is adjudicated for criminal

sexual conduct against another student enrolled in the

same school district;

or commits criminal sexual

conduct against another student enrolled in the same

school district.

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or

Permanent Expulsion

• Police Referral

Fighting, Inciting Violence, Filming a F

ight or

Assault, Distributing or Publishing a F

ight or

Assault Video

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or Expulsion

Sexting: d

istribution or publication of lewd,

pornographic, or sexually suggestive videos or

photographs of students or staff.

• Restorative Practices

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or Expulsion

• Police Referral

Misuse of District Technology: violating the District’s

acceptable use policies and agreement.

• Restorative Practices

• Detention

• Saturday School

• Parent Notification

• Suspension or Expulsion

• Police Referral

Hall Passes

Students are not allowed hall passes the first 10 or the last 10 minutes of class. In order for students

to be able to move about the building during regular class time they must possess a pass. Hall passes

can be issued by administrators or staff members and should reflect specific information such as time

of departure, destination, and signature of the person issuing the pass.

We expect that all students will not abuse the privilege of having a hall pass by getting to their

destination as soon as possible. Failure of students to follow this process will result in disciplinary

action.

Students are NOT allowed to free roam the building for a break or be sent to the any area of the

building to work (ie: lobby, media center, or office) unless it is specifically outlined in the students’ IEP

or 504.

Mobile Deliveries (Door Dash or Restaurant Deliveries)

Due to security issues surrounding the opening and closing of exterior doors, mobile food deliveries

will not be allowed during the school day, including lunch time.

Students who violate this rule are subject to disciplinary consequences.

Major Discipline Issues

Students who have MAJOR discipline issues during the school year will forfeit their

privilege to attend events (ie: Prom, Snowball, Homecoming, Commencement or school sponsored

trips, etc) or participate in clubs or service organizations (based on the group’s bylaws) for the

remainder of the school year.

Non-prescription (over the counter) Medications (cough drops, aspirin, Advil, etc)

Students at the high school are able to possess and self-administer over the counter, or

prescription antibiotics.

Students are allowed to carry for their own consumption and should not share with other

students with in the building. Sharing or supplying may fall under code of conduct for

distribution depending on circumstance.

PROM/HOMECOMING/SNOWBALL

These dances are a privilege and not a right. To attend students must:

• be in good standing (no major discipline issue for the school year for guest

and/or sponsor student. Prior year discipline may be considered when approving

guest passes)be attending on a regular basis and following attendance policy

• Guests have no discipline pending at home school, LCC or other programs enrolled in

• be a full time student and attend on CHS campus for at least half of the day;

this includes homebound, home-based or seat-time waiver students.

(Exceptions may be made by principal for extenuating circumstances).

-be on track for graduation

• For PROM: be a Junior or Senior (guest passes for underclassman or non CHS students WILL

be required and approval is at the discretion of administration)

-students that attempted to circumvent the rules/guidelines for guest passes will

have guest pass immediately denied.

• underclassmen guests will be required to act appropriate for an upperclassmen

event. Failure to behave appropriately will result in guest & sponsor being

asked to leave event.

APPENDIX A: TITLE IX SEXUAL HARASSMENT

3118 Title IX Sexual Harassment

Consistent with Policy 3115, the District prohibits unlawful sex discrimination, including harassment

and retaliation, in any of its education programs or activities in accordance with Title IX of the

Education Amendments of 1972 and corresponding implementing regulations.

This Policy addresses allegations of Title IX sexual harassment that occurred on or after August 14,

2020. Allegations of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation not covered by this Policy should be

addressed under the District’s applicable non-discrimination or antiharassment policies. Allegations

alleging both Title IX sexual harassment and other forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment

(e.g., race, age, disability) that cannot be reasonably separated into two distinct complaints should

be investigated under this Policy. Investigating other forms of discrimination, including harassment

and retaliation, through this Policy will fulfill the District’s investigation requirements under Policies

4104 or 5202, but nothing in this paragraph limits the District’s right to determine at any time that a

non-Title IX allegation should be addressed under Policies 4104 or 5202 or any other applicable

Policy.

The Board directs the Superintendent or designee to designate one or more employees who meet

the training requirements in Section M of this Policy to serve as the District’s Title IX Coordinator(s).

The Title IX Coordinator will designate an Investigator, Decision Maker, and Appeals Officer, if

applicable, for each Formal Complaint made under this Policy. If a Formal Complaint is made under

this Policy against the Title IX Coordinator, the Board President will designate the persons who will

serve as the Investigator, Decision-Maker, and Appeals Officer and will work with District

administrators to ensure that all other requirements of this Policy are met. The Investigator,

Decision-Maker, Appeals Officer, and any person designated to facilitate an informal resolution

process cannot be the same person on a specific matter, and the persons designated to serve in

those roles may or may not be District employees. Any person serving as the Investigator, Decision-

Maker, Appeals Officer, or person designated to facilitate an informal resolution process must meet

the training requirements in Section M of this Policy.

Inquiries about Title IX’s application to a particular situation may be referred to the Title IX

Coordinator, the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights of the United States Department of Education,

or both.

A. Definitions

For purposes of this Policy, the below terms are defined as follows:

1. “Sexual Harassment” means conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the

following:

a. A District employee conditioning the provision of a District aid, benefit, or service on

a person’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct;

b. Unwelcome conduct that a reasonable person would determine to be so severe,

pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the

District’s education program or activity; or

c. Sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking, as defined by the

Violence Against Women Act, 34 USC § 12291 et. seq., and the uniform crime reporting

system of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 20USC 1092(f)(6)(A)(v).

i. “Sexual assault” means an offense classified as a forcible or nonforcible sex

offense under the uniform crime reporting system of the Federal Bureau of

Investigation.

ii. “Dating violence” means violence committed by a person who is or has been

in a romantic or intimate relationship with the Complainant. The existence of such a

relationship is based on a consideration of the length of the relationship, the type of

relationship, and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the

relationship.

iii. “Domestic violence” means felony or misdemeanor crimes of violence

committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the Complainant,

person with whom the Complainant shares a child, person who is cohabitating with or

has cohabitated with the Complainant as a spouse or intimate partner, person similarly

situated to a spouse of the Complainant under the domestic or family violence laws of

Michigan; or any other person against an adult or youth Complainant who is protected

from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of Michigan.

iv. “Stalking” means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific

person that would cause a reasonable person to (1) fear for the person’s safety or the

safety of others; or (2) suffer substantial emotional distress.

2. “Actual Knowledge” means notice of sexual harassment or allegations of sexual harassment to

the District’s Title IX Coordinator or any District employee. Imputation of knowledge based solely on

vicarious liability or constructive notice is insufficient to constitute actual knowledge. This standard is

not met when the only District employee with actual knowledge is the Respondent.

3. “Appeals Officer” is the person designated by the District to handle appeals of a dismissal or

determination of responsibility for matters investigated under this Policy. The Appeals Officer may

not be the same person as the Investigator, Title IX Coordinator, Decision-Maker, or person

4. “Complainant” is a person who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute Title IX

sexual harassment.

5. “Consent” means a voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity by a person legally capable

of consenting. Someone who is incapacitated cannot consent. Past consent does not imply future

consent. Silence or an absence of resistance does not imply consent. Consent to engage in sexual

activity with one person does not imply consent to engage in sexual activity with another. Consent

can be withdrawn at any time. Coercion, force, or threat of either invalidates consent. Sexual

conduct or relationships between District employees, volunteers, or contractors and students,

regardless of age or consent, are prohibited.

6. “Day,” unless otherwise indicated, means a day that the District’s central office is open for

business.

7. “Decision-Maker” is the person designated by the District to review the investigation report and

provide a written determination of responsibility that provides the evidentiary basis for the Decision-

Maker’s conclusions. The Decision-Maker may not be the same person as the Investigator, Title IX

Coordinator, Appeals Officer, or person designated to facilitate an informal resolution process on a

specific matter.

8. “Education Program or Activity” means any location, event, or circumstance over which the

District exercised substantial control over both the Respondent and the context in which the

harassment occurred.

9. “Formal Complaint” means a written document or electronic submission signed and filed by a

Complainant or signed by the Title IX Coordinator alleging sexual harassment against a Respondent

and requesting that the District investigate the sexual harassment allegation.

10.“Grievance Process” is the process by which the District handles Formal Complaints.

11.“Investigator” is the person designated by the District to investigate a Title IX Formal Complaint.

The Investigator cannot be the same person as the Decision-Maker, Appeals Officer, or person

designated to facilitate an informal resolution process on a specific matter. The Title IX Coordinator

may serve as the Investigator on a particular investigation, unless the Title IX Coordinator signed

the Formal Complaint.

12.“Report” means an account of alleged Title IX sexual harassment made by any person

(regardless of whether the reporting party is the alleged victim).

13.“Respondent” is a person who has been reported to be the perpetrator of conduct that could

14.“Supportive Measures” are non-disciplinary, non-punitive, individualized services offered and

implemented by the Title IX Coordinator as appropriate, as reasonably available, and at no-cost to

the Complainant and the Respondent before or after the filing of a Formal Complaint or when no

Formal Complaint has been filed. Supportive measures are designed to restore or preserve equal

access to the District’s education program or activity without unreasonably burdening the other

party, including measures designed to protect the safety of all parties or the District’s educational

environment, or deter sexual harassment.

15.“Title IX Coordinator” is the person(s) designated by the District to coordinate the District’s Title

IX compliance. The Title IX Coordinator may not be the same person as the Appeals Officer or

Decision-Maker on a specific matter. A person not serving as a Title IX Coordinator in a particular

matter is not disqualified from serving in another role in that matter. The Title IX Coordinator may

also serve as the Investigator or person designated to facilitate an informal resolution process on a

particular investigation, unless the Title IX Coordinator signed the Formal Complaint.

B. Posting Requirement

The Title IX Coordinator’s contact information (name or title, office address, electronic mail address,

and telephone number), along with the District’s Title IX nondiscrimination statement, must be

prominently posted on the District’s website and in any catalogs or handbooks provided to

applicants for admission or employment, students, parents/guardians, and unions or professional

organizations with a collective bargaining or professional agreement with the District. The District

will provide notice of this Policy to all applicants, students, parents/guardians, employees, and

unions or professional organizations with a collective bargaining or professional agreement with the

District by prominently posting this Policy on its website and referencing this Policy in its handbooks,

which will include the Title IX Coordinator’s name or title, office address, electronic mail address,

and telephone number.

C. Designation of Title IX Coordinator

The District designates the following person(s) as the Title IX Coordinator(s):

Nick Boucher -Assoc. Superintendent of Curriculum

378 State St. Charlotte MI

517-541-5106

bouchea@charlottenet.org

Michelle Sine

Assoc. Superintendent of Business & Operations

517-541-5109

sinemm@charlottenet.org

D. Reporting Title IX Sexual Harassment:

A person may make a report of sexual harassment or retaliation at any time.

Reports may be made in person, by mail, by telephone, or by electronic mail, using

the contact information listed for the Title IX Coordinator, or by any other means

that result in the Title IX Coordinator receiving the person’s verbal or written report.

Any District employee who receives a report of sexual harassment or has actual

knowledge of sexual harassment must convey that information to the Title IX

Coordinator by the end of the next day.

Any other person who witnesses an act of sexual harassment is encouraged to

report it to a District employee and may do so anonymously. No person will be

retaliated against based on any report of suspected sexual harassment or

retaliation.

E. General Response to Sexual Harassment

1. District’s Obligation to Respond without Deliberate Indifference Upon actual knowledge of Title IX

sexual harassment, the Title IX Coordinator must respond promptly in a manner that is not

deliberately indifferent. The District will be deemed to be deliberately indifferent only if its response

to sexual harassment is clearly unreasonable in light of the known circumstances. If the Title IX

Coordinator receives a report of sexual harassment and the Complainant does not file a Formal

Complaint, the Title IX Coordinator must evaluate the information and determine whether to sign

and file a Formal Complaint. If the Title IX Coordinator determines not to sign and file a Formal

Complaint, the Title IX Coordinator must address the allegations in a manner that is not deliberately

indifferent.

2. Response to Report of Title IX Sexual Harassment

Upon receipt of a report of sexual harassment, the Title IX Coordinator must promptly contact the

Complainant to discuss the availability of supportive measures, consider the Complainant’s wishes

with respect to supportive measures, inform the Complainant of the availability of supportive

measures with or without the filing of a Formal Complaint, and explain to the Complainant the

process for filing a Formal Complaint.

3. Formal Complaint Filed

Upon the receipt of a Formal Complaint, the District must follow the Grievance Process in Section F

of this Policy. A Formal Complaint may be submitted using the Title IX Sexual Harassment Formal

4. Equitable Treatment

The District will treat the Complainant and Respondent equitably throughout the Grievance Process,

which may include offering supportive measures as described in Subsection E(6) of this Policy.

5. Documentation and Recordkeeping

The Title IX Coordinator will document all sexual harassment reports and all incidents of sexual

harassment that the Title IX Coordinator receives or personally observes. The District will retain this

documentation in accordance with applicable record retention requirements in Section N of this

Policy.

6. Supportive Measures

After receiving a report of Title IX sexual harassment, the Title IX Coordinator must promptly contact

the Complainant to discuss the availability of supportive measures, with or without the filing of a

Formal Complaint. If the District does not provide a Complainant with supportive measures, then the

Title IX Coordinator must document the reasons why such a response was not clearly unreasonable

in light of the known circumstances. The District may provide, as appropriate, non-disciplinary, non-

punitive individualized services to the Complainant or Respondent before or after the filing of a

Formal Complaint or when no Formal Complaint has been filed. Supportive measures should be

designed to restore or preserve equal access to the District’s education program or activity without

unreasonably burdening the other party. Supportive measures are offered without charge to all

parties and are designed to protect the safety of all parties or the District’s educational environment,

or deter sexual harassment.

Supportive measures may include, but are not limited to:

a. District-provided counseling;

b. Course-related adjustments, such as deadline extensions;

c. Modifications to class or work schedules;

d. Provision of an escort to ensure that the Complainant and Respondent can safely attend classes

and school activities; and

All supportive measures must be kept confidential, to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality

would not impair the District’s ability to provide the supportive measures.

7. Respondent Removal

a. Emergency Removal (Student)

The District may only remove a student Respondent from a District program or activity if, following

an individualized safety and risk analysis, the District determines that there is an immediate threat to

the physical health or safety of any student or other person arising from the sexual harassment

allegations. The District must provide the Respondent with notice and an opportunity to immediately

challenge the removal decision. This provision may not be construed to modify any rights under the

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or the

Americans with Disabilities Act.

b. Administrative Leave (Employee)

The District may place an employee Respondent on non-disciplinary administrative leave during the

pendency of the Grievance Process. This provision may not be construed to modify any rights under

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or the Americans with Disabilities Act.

8. Law Enforcement

In appropriate circumstances, a District employee will notify law enforcement or Child Protective

Services, consistent with Policies 4202, 5201, and 5701. The District will attempt to comply with all

law enforcement requests for cooperation with related law enforcement activity. In some

circumstances, compliance with law enforcement requests may require the District to briefly

suspend or delay its investigation. If an investigation is delayed, the District will notify the parties in

writing of the delay and the reasons for the delay. If the District’s investigation is suspended or

delayed, supportive measures will continue during the suspension or delay. If the law enforcement

agency does not notify the District within 10 days that the District’s investigation may resume, the

District will notify the law enforcement agency that the District intends to promptly resume its

investigation.

F. Grievance Process

1. Generally

The Grievance Process begins when a Formal Complaint is filed or when the Title IX Coordinator

signs a Formal Complaint and concludes the date the parties receive the Appeals Officer’s written

decision or the date on which an appeal is no longer timely. The District will endeavor to complete

the Grievance Process within 90-120 days, absent extenuating circumstances or delays as

described below. The District will treat both the Complainant and the Respondent equitably

throughout the Grievance Process. Neither the Title IX Coordinator, the Decision-Maker, the

Investigator, Appeals Officer, nor any person designated to facilitate an informal resolution process

will have a conflict of interest or bias for or against Complainants or Respondents generally or for or

against an individual Complainant or Respondent.

The Grievance Process requires an objective evaluation of all relevant evidence – including both

inculpatory and exculpatory evidence. Credibility determinations may not be based on a person’s

status as a Complainant, Respondent, or witness. Throughout the Grievance Process, there is a

presumption that the Respondent is not responsible for the alleged conduct unless, in the

determination of responsibility, the Decision-Maker finds the Respondent responsible for the alleged

conduct. At any point, the Title IX Coordinator, Investigator, Decision-Maker, or Appeals Officer may

temporarily delay the Grievance Process or permit a limited extension of time frames for good

cause. Good cause may include absence of a party, party’s advisor, or witness; concurrent law

enforcement activity; or the need for accommodations (e.g., language assistance or accommodation

of disabilities). If there is a delay or extension, the parties will receive written notice of the delay or

extension and the reasons for the action. Any disciplinary action resulting from the Grievance

Process will be issued in accordance with District Policy, as applicable, and any applicable codes of

conduct, handbooks, collective bargaining agreements, and individual employee contracts. After the

investigation portion of the Grievance Process has concluded, the Decision-Maker will endeavor to

issue a determination of responsibility within30 days, absent extenuating circumstances.

2. Notice of Allegations

Upon receipt of a Formal Complaint, the District must provide written notice tothe parties who are

known at the time that includes:

a. A copy of this Policy, which includes the District’s Grievance Process, and any informal

resolution process;

b. The sexual harassment allegations, including sufficient details known at the time and with

sufficient time so that parties may prepare a response before the initial interview. Sufficient details

include parties involved in the incident, if known; the alleged conduct constituting sexual

harassment; and the date and time of the alleged incident;

c. A statement that the Respondent is presumed not responsible for the alleged conduct;

d. A statement that a determination of responsibility is made at the Grievance Process’s

conclusion;

e. A statement that the parties may have an advisor of their choice, who may be an attorney,

although any attorney or advisor who is not a District employee will be at the party’s own cost;

f. A statement that the parties will be provided an opportunity to inspect and review any

evidence before the investigation report is finalized; and

g. If the Complainant or Respondent is a student, and the District’s Student Code of Conduct

addresses false statements by students during the disciplinary process, a citation to that portion of

the Code of Conduct. If the Code of Conduct does not address false statements by students, the

notice is not required to include any reference. If, during the course of an investigation, the

Investigator decides to investigate allegations that are not included in this notice, the District will

provide notice of the additional allegations to the Complainant and Respondent.

3. Informal Resolution

During the Grievance Process, after a Formal Complaint has been filed but before a determination

of responsibility has been made, the District may offer to facilitate an informal resolution process, or

either party may request the informal resolution process. A Formal Complaint must be filed to initiate

the informal resolution process. Informal resolution does not require a full investigation and may

encompass a broad range of conflict resolution strategies, including, but not limited to, arbitration,

mediation, or restorative justice. The Title IX Coordinator will determine the informal resolution

process that will be used, including the person who will facilitate that process. Informal resolution is

not available for a Formal Complaint alleging that an employee sexually harassed a student. A party

is not required to participate in an informal resolution process. When offering informal resolution, the

Title IX Coordinator must (1) provide both parties written notice of their rights in an informal

resolution; and (2) obtain written, voluntary consent from both parties to enter into the informal

resolution process. The written notice must contain the:

a. Allegations;

b. Informal resolution requirements, including the circumstances under which the informal

resolution precludes the parties from resuming a Formal Complaint arising from the same

allegations;

c. Right to withdraw from informal resolution and resume the Grievance Process at any time

prior to agreeing to a resolution; and

d. Any consequences resulting from participating in the informal resolution process, including

the records that will be maintained or could be shared

4. Investigation

The District has the burden of proof and the burden to gather evidence sufficient to reach a

determination of responsibility.

a. Investigation Process

The District will not require, allow, rely upon, or otherwise use questions or evidence that constitute,

or seek disclosure of, information protected under a legally recognized privilege unless the person

holding such privilege has waived the privilege in writing.

The District may not access, consider, disclose, or otherwise use a party’s medical records,

including mental health records, which are made and maintained by a healthcare provider in

connection with the party’s treatment unless the District obtains that party’s voluntary, written

consent to do so for the Grievance Process.

The Investigator must provide an equal opportunity for the parties to present witnesses, including

fact and expert witnesses, and other inculpatory or exculpatory evidence. The Investigator cannot

restrict parties from discussing the allegations under investigation, nor can the Investigator restrict

parties from gathering or presenting relevant evidence. Parties may be accompanied by an advisor

of their choice, including an attorney, in any meeting or Grievance Process proceeding. If a party

chooses an advisor who is not a District employee, the District is not responsible for any associated

costs. The Superintendent or designee may establish restrictions regarding the extent to which the

advisor may participate in the proceedings, as long as the restrictions apply equally to both parties

(e.g., abusive, disruptive behavior or language will not be tolerated; advisor will not interrupt the

investigator to ask questions of witnesses).

The Investigator must provide the date, time, location, participants, and purpose of all hearings (if

any), investigative interviews, and meetings, to a party whose participation is invited or expected.

Written notice must be provided a sufficient time in advance so that a party may prepare to

participate.

As described in Section L of this Policy, retaliation against a person for making a complaint or

participating in an investigation is prohibited. The Investigator must ensure that the Complainant and

Respondent have an equal opportunity to inspect and review any evidence obtained as part of the

investigation so that each party has the opportunity to meaningfully respond to the evidence before

the investigation’s conclusion. This evidence includes (1) evidence upon which the District does not

intend to rely in reaching a determination regarding responsibility, and (2) inculpatory or exculpatory

evidence obtained from any source.

Before the investigation’s completion, the Investigator must send to each party and the party’s

advisor, if any, the evidence subject to inspection and review in an electronic format or a hard copy,

and the parties must have at least 10 calendar days to submit a written response to the Investigator.

The party’s response must be considered by the Investigator before completing the final

investigation report.

b. Investigation Report

The Investigator must create an investigation report that fairly summarizes relevant evidence and

submit the investigation report to the Decision Maker. At least 10 calendar days before a

determination of responsibility is issued, the Investigator must send the investigation report to each

party for review and written response. Written responses to the investigation report must be

submitted directly to the Decision-Maker.

The Investigator will endeavor to complete the investigation and finalize the report within 60 days.

5. Determination of Responsibility

The Decision-Maker cannot be the same person as the Title IX Coordinator, Investigator, Appeals

Officer, or person designated to facilitate an informal resolution process. Before the Decision-Maker

reaches a determination of responsibility, and after the Investigator has sent the investigation report

to the parties, the Decision Maker must:

a. Afford each party the opportunity to submit written, relevant questions that a party wants

asked of any party or witness; and

b. Provide each party with the answers, and allow for additional, limited follow up questions

from each party.

Questions and evidence about the Complainant’s sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior are

not relevant unless offered to prove that someone other than the Respondent committed the alleged

misconduct, or the questions and evidence concern specific incidents of the Complainant’s prior

sexual behavior with respect to the Respondent and are offered to prove consent.

If the Decision-Maker decides to exclude questions from either party as not relevant, the Decision-

Maker must explain the decision to the party proposing the questions.T he Decision-Maker must

issue a written determination of responsibility based on a preponderance of the evidence standard

(i.e., more likely than not)simultaneously to both parties. The written determination of responsibility

must include:

a. Identification of the sexual harassment allegations;

b. Description of the procedural steps taken from the receipt of the Formal Complaint through

the determination of responsibility, including any:

i. Notification to the parties;

ii. Party and witness interviews;

iii. Site visits;

iv. Methods used to collect evidence; and

v. Hearings held.

c. Factual findings that support the determination;

d. Conclusions about the application of any relevant code of conduct, policy, law, or rule to

the facts;

e. A statement of, and rationale for, the result as to each allegation, including:

i. A determination of responsibility;

ii. Any disciplinary action taken against the Respondent (consistent with Policies 4309,

4407, 4506, 4606, or 5206, as applicable, and any applicable codes of conduct, handbooks,

collective bargaining agreements, or individual employee contracts); and

iii. Whether remedies designed to restore and preserve equal access to the District’s

education program or activity will be provided to the Complainant.

f. Appeal rights

2. Appeals

Notice of the determination of responsibility or dismissal decision must include notice of the parties’

appeal rights. Both parties may appeal a determination of responsibility or the decision to dismiss a

Formal Complaint in whole or in part for the following reasons only:

a. A procedural irregularity that affected the outcome.

b. New evidence that was not reasonably available at the time the determination of

responsibility or dismissal decision was made that could affect the outcome.

c. The Title IX Coordinator, Investigator, or Decision-Maker had a conflict of interest or bias

for or against the Complainant or Respondent, generally or individually, that affected the outcome.

An appeal must be filed with the Title IX Coordinator within 5 days of the date of the determination

of responsibility or dismissal decision. Upon receipt of an appeal, the Title IX Coordinator will assign

an Appeals Officer who will provide both parties written notice of the appeal and an equal

opportunity to submit a written statement in support of, or challenging, the determination or

dismissal decision.

The Appeals Officer must provide a written decision describing the result of the appeal and the

rationale for the result to both parties simultaneously. The Appeals Officer will endeavor to decide

an appeal within 30 days.

The Appeals Officer cannot be the same person who acts as the Title IX Coordinator, Investigator,

Decision-Maker, or person designated to facilitate an informal resolution process on the same

matter. The Appeals Officer also cannot have a conflict of interest or bias against Complainants and

Respondents generally or individually.

The determination of responsibility is final upon the date the parties receive the Appeals Officer’s

written decision or on the date on which an appeal is no longer timely.

B. Dismissal

1. Mandatory Dismissals

The Title IX Coordinator must dismiss a Formal Complaint if:

a. The Formal Complaint’s allegations, even if proven, would not constitute sexual

harassment as defined in this Policy;

b. The Formal Complaint’s allegations did not occur in the District’s programs or activities; or

c. The Formal Complaint’s allegations did not occur in the United States.

2. Discretionary Dismissals

The Title IX Coordinator may dismiss a Formal Complaint if:

a. The Complainant notifies the Title IX Coordinator in writing that the Complainant wishes to

withdraw the Formal Complaint in whole or in part;

b. The Respondent’s enrollment or employment ends; or

c. Specific circumstances prevent the District from gathering evidence sufficient to reach a

determination (e.g., several years have passed between alleged misconduct and Formal Complaint

filing, Complainant refuses or ceases to cooperate with Grievance Process).

The Title IX Coordinator will promptly and simultaneously notify both parties when a Formal

Complaint is dismissed. The notice must include the reasons for mandatory or discretionary

dismissal and the right to appeal. Appeal rights are discussed above in Subsection F(6) of this

Policy. Dismissal of a Formal Complaint under this Policy does not excuse or preclude the District

from investigating alleged violations of other policy, rule, or law, or from issuing appropriate

discipline based on the results of the investigation.

C. Consolidation of Complaints

The Title IX Coordinator or Investigator may consolidate Formal Complaints where the allegations

arise out of the same facts or circumstances. Where a Grievance Process involves more than one

Complainant or more than one Respondent, references in this Policy to the singular “party,”

“Complainant,” or “Respondent” include the plural, as applicable.

D. Remedies

The District will take appropriate and effective measures to promptly remedy the

effects of sexual harassment. The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for the effective

implementation of any remedies. Appropriate remedies will be based on the circumstances and

may include, but are not limited to:

1. Providing an escort to ensure that the Complainant and Respondent can safely attend

classes and school activities;

2. Offering the parties school-based counseling services, as necessary;

3. Providing the parties with academic support services, such as tutoring, as necessary;

4. Rearranging course or work schedules, to the extent practicable, to minimize contact

between the Complainant and Respondent;

5. Moving the Complainant’s or the Respondent’s locker or work space;

6. Issuing a “no contact” directive between the Complainant and Respondent;

7. Providing counseling memoranda with directives or recommendations;

8. Imposing discipline consistent with District Policy, as applicable, and any applicable codes

of conduct, handbooks, collective bargaining agreements, or individual employee contracts.

These remedies may also be available to any other student or person who is or was affected by the

sexual harassment. After a determination of responsibility, the Title IX Coordinator should consider

whether broader remedies are required, which may include, but are not limited to:

1. Assemblies reminding students and staff of their obligations under this Policy and

applicable handbooks;

2. Additional staff training;

3. A climate survey; or

4. Letters to students, staff, and parents/guardians reminding persons of their obligations

under this Policy and applicable handbooks.

If the Complainant or Respondent is a student with a disability, the District will convene an IEP or

Section 504 Team meeting to determine if additional or different programs, services,

accommodations, or supports are required to ensure that the Complainant or Respondent continues

to receive a free appropriate public education. Any disciplinary action taken against a Respondent

who is a student with a disability must be made in accordance with Policy 5206B and the Individuals

with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

B. False Statements

Any person who knowingly makes a materially false statement in bad faith in a Title IX investigation

will be subject to discipline, up to and including discharge or permanent expulsion. A dismissal or

determination that the Respondent did not violate this Policy is not sufficient, on its own, to conclude

that a person made a materially false statement in bad faith.

C. Confidentiality

The District will keep confidential the identity of a person who reports sexual harassment or files a

Formal Complaint, including parties and witnesses, except as permitted or required by law or to

carry out any provision of this Policy, applicable regulations, or laws.

D. Retaliation

Retaliation (e.g., intimidation, threats, coercion) for the purpose of interfering with a person’s rights

under Title IX is prohibited. This prohibition applies to retaliation against any person who makes a

report, files a Formal Complaint, or participates in, or refuses to participate in a Title IX proceeding.

Complaints alleging retaliation may be pursued in accordance with District Policy. The exercise of

rights protected under the First Amendment does not constitute retaliation prohibited by this Section.

When processing a report or Formal Complaint of sexual harassment, pursuing discipline for other

conduct arising out of the same facts or circumstances constitutes retaliation if done for the purpose

of interfering with that person’s rights under Title IX. Any person who engages in retaliation will be

disciplined in accordance with District Policy, as applicable, and any applicable codes of conduct,

handbooks, collective bargaining agreements, and individual employee contracts.

E. Training

All District employees must be trained on how to identify and report sexual harassment. Any person

designated as a Title IX Coordinator, Investigator, Decision-Maker, Appeals Officer, or any person

who facilitates an informal resolution process must be trained on the following:

1. The definition of sexual harassment;

2. The scope of the District’s education programs or activities;

3. How to conduct an investigation and the District’s grievance process, including, as

applicable, hearings, appeals, and informal resolution processes; and

4. How to serve impartially, including avoiding prejudgment of the facts at issue, conflicts of

interest, and bias. Investigators must receive training on how to prepare an investigation

report as outlined in Subsection F(4)(b) above, including, but not limited to, issues of

relevance.

Decision-Makers and Appeals Officers must receive training on issues of evidence and questioning,

including, but not limited to, when questions about a Complainant’s prior sexual history or

disposition are not relevant. Any materials used to train District employees who act as Title IX

Coordinators, Investigators, Decision-Makers, Appeals Officers, or who facilitate an informal

resolution process must not rely on sex stereotypes and must promote impartial investigations and

adjudications of Formal Complaints. These training materials must be posted on the District’s

website.

F. Record Keeping

The District will maintain records related to reports of alleged Title IX sexualharassment for a

minimum of seven years. This retention requirement applies toinvestigation records, disciplinary

sanctions, remedies, appeals, and records of

any action taken, such as supportive measures. The District will also retain any materials used to

train Title IX Coordinators, Investigators, Decision-Makers, Appeals Officers, and any person

designated to facilitate an informal resolution process.

G. Office for Civil Rights

Any person who believes that he or she was the victim of sexual harassment mayfile a complaint

with the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) at any time:U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil

Rights

1350 Euclid Avenue, Suite 325

Cleveland, Ohio 44115

Phone: (216) 522-4970

E-mail: OCR.Cleveland@ed.gov

An OCR complaint may be filed before, during, or after filing a Formal Complaint with the District. A

person may forego filing a Formal Complaint with the District and instead file a complaint directly

with OCR. The District recommends that a person who has been subjected to sexual harassment

also file a Formal Complaint with the District to ensure that the District is able to take steps to

prevent any further harassment and to discipline the alleged perpetrator, if necessary. OCR does

not serve as an appellate body for District decisions under this Policy. An investigation by OCR will

occur separately from any District investigation.

Legal authority: Education Amendments Act of 1972, 20 USC §§1681 - 1688; 34 CFR

APPENDIX B: ANTI-BULLYING

5207 Anti-Bullying Policy

All types of bullying, including cyberbullying, without regard to subject matter or motivating animus,

are prohibited.

A. Prohibited Conduct

1. Bullying, including cyberbullying, a student at school is prohibited. Bullying is any written,

verbal, or physical act, or electronic communication that is intended to or that a reasonable person

would know is likely to harm one or more students directly or indirectly by doing any of the following:

a. substantially interfering with a student’s educational opportunities, benefits, or

programs;

b. adversely affecting a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the District’s

educational programs or activities by placing the student in reasonable fear of physical

harm or by causing substantial emotional distress;

c. having an actual and substantial detrimental effect on a student’s physical or mental

health; or

d. causing substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the District’s

orderly operations.

2. Retaliation or false accusations against the target of bullying, anyone reporting bullying, a

witness, or another person with reliable information about an act of bullying, are prohibited.

B. Reporting an Incident

If a student, staff member, or other person suspects there has been a bullying incident, the person

must promptly report the incident to the building principal or designee, or to the Responsible School

Official(s), as defined below.

A report may be made in person, by telephone, or in writing (including electronic transmissions). If a

bullying incident is reported to a staff member who is not the building principal, designee, or a

Responsible School Official, the staff member must promptly report the incident to the building

principal, designee, or a Responsible School Official.

To encourage reporting of suspected bullying or related activities, each building principal, after

consulting the Responsible School Official(s), will create, publicize, and implement a system for

anonymous reports. The system must emphasize that the District’s ability to investigate anonymous

reports may be limited.

Complaints that the building principal has bullied a student must be reported to Superintendent.

Complaints that the Superintendent has bullied a student must be reported to the Board President.

C. Investigation

All bullying complaints will be promptly investigated. The building principal or designee will conduct

the investigation, unless the building principal or Superintendent is the subject of the investigation. If

the building principal is the subject of the investigation, the Superintendent or designee will conduct

the investigation. If the Superintendent is the subject of the investigation, the Board President will

designate a neutral party to conduct the investigation. A description of each reported incident, along

with all investigation materials and conclusions reached, will be documented and retained.

D. Notice to Parent/Guardian

If the investigator determines that a bullying incident has occurred, the District will promptly notify

the victim and perpetrator’s parent/guardian in writing.

E. Annual Reports

At least annually, the building principal or designee, or the Responsible School Official, must report

all verified bullying incidents and the resulting consequences, including any disciplinary action or

referrals, to the Board. The District will annually report incidents of bullying to MDE in the form and

manner prescribed by MDE.

F. Responsible School Official

The Superintendent is the “Responsible School Official” for this Policy and is responsible for

ensuring that this Policy is properly implemented. This appointment does not reduce or eliminate the

duties and responsibilities of the building principal or designee as described in this Policy.

G. Posting/Publication of Policy

The Superintendent or designee will ensure that this Policy is available on the District’s website and

incorporated into student handbooks and other relevant school publications. The Superintendent or

designee will submit this Policy to the MDE within 30 days after its adoption.

H. Definitions

1. “At school” means in a classroom, elsewhere on school premises, on a school bus or other

school-related vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or event whether it is held on school

premises. “At school” also includes any conduct using a telecommunications access device or

telecommunications service provider that occurs off school premises if the device or provider is

owned by or under the control of the District.

2. “Telecommunications access device” means any of the following:

a. any instrument, device, card, plate, code, telephone number, account number, personal

identification number, electronic serial number, mobile identification number, counterfeit number, or

financial transaction device defined in MCL 750.157m (e.g., an electronic funds transfer card, a

credit card, a debit card, a point-of-sale card, or any other instrument or means of access to a credit,

deposit, or proprietary account) that alone or with another device can acquire, transmit, intercept,

provide, receive, use, or otherwise facilitate the use, acquisition, interception, provision, reception,

and transmission of any telecommunications service; or

b. any type of instrument, device, machine, equipment, technology, or software that facilitates

telecommunications or which is capable of transmitting, acquiring, intercepting, decrypting, or

receiving any telephonic, electronic, data, internet access, audio, video, microwave, or radio

transmissions, signals, telecommunications, or services, including the receipt, acquisition,

interception, transmission, retransmission, or decryption of all telecommunications, transmissions,

signals, or services provided by or through any cable television, fiber optic, telephone, satellite,

microwave, data transmission, radio, internet based or wireless distribution network, system, or

facility, or any part, accessory, or component, including any computer circuit, security module, smart

card, software, computer chip, pager, cellular telephone, personal communications device,

transponder, receiver, modem, electronic mechanism or other component, accessory, or part of any

other device that is capable of facilitating the interception, transmission, retransmission, decryption,

acquisition, or reception of any telecommunications, transmissions, signals, or services.

3. “Telecommunications service provider” means any of the following:

a. a person or entity providing a telecommunications service, whether directly or indirectly as

a reseller, including, but not limited to, a cellular, paging, or other wireless communications

company or other person or entity which, for a fee, supplies the facility, cell site, mobile telephone

switching office, or other equipment or telecommunications service;

b. a person or entity owning or operating any fiber optic, cable television, satellite, internet

based, telephone, wireless, microwave, data transmission, or radio distribution system, network, or

facility; or

c. a person or entity providing any telecommunications service directly or indirectly by or

through any distribution systems, networks, or facilities.

Legal authority: MCL 380.1310b; MCL 750.157m, 750.219a

Date adopted: 3/14/2022

APPENDIX C: PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS

5308 Protection of Pupil Rights

A. Surveys, Analyses, and Evaluations Parents/guardians may inspect any survey created by a third

party before that survey is administered or distributed to their student. All survey inspection requests

must be made in writing to the building principal before the survey’s scheduled administration date.

The District must obtain written consent from a student’s parent/guardian before the student is

required to participate in a survey, analysis, or evaluation funded, in whole or in part, by the U.S.

Department of Education that would reveal sensitive information. For all other surveys, analyses, or

evaluations that would reveal sensitive information about a student, the District will provide prior

notice to the student’s parent/guardian and an opportunity for the parent/guardian to opt their

student out.

Employees may not request or disclose the identity of a student who completes a survey,

evaluation, or analysis containing sensitive information.

“Sensitive information” includes:

● political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent/guardian;

● mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;

● sexual behavior or attitudes;

● illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;

● critical appraisals of other persons with whom the student has close family relationships;

● legally recognized privileges or analogous relationships, such as those with lawyers, physicians,

and ministers;

● religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent/guardian; or

● income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participating in a program or for

receiving financial assistance under that program).

B. Invasive Physical Examinations

Parents/guardians may refuse to allow their students to participate in any nonemergency, invasive

physical examination or screening that is: (1) required as a condition of attendance, (2) administered

and scheduled by the District, and (3) not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a

student.

“Invasive physical examination” means:

1. any medical examination that involves the exposure of private body parts; or

2. any act during an examination that includes incision, insertion, or injection into the body

that does not include a hearing, vision, or scoliosis screening.

C. Collection of Student Personal Information for Marketing

No employee will administer or distribute to students a survey or other instrument for the purpose of

collecting personal information for marketing or selling that information.

“Personal information” means individually identifiable information that includes:

1. student’s and parents’/guardians’ first and last name;

2. home or other physical address;

3. telephone number; or

4. Social Security Number.

This Policy does not apply to the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for the

purpose of providing educational services to students, such as:

1. post-secondary education recruitment;

2. military recruitment;

3. tests and assessments to provide cognitive, evaluative, diagnostic, or achievement

information about students; or

4. student recognition programs.

B. Inspection of Instructional Material

Parents/guardians may inspect instructional material consistent with Policy 5401.

C. Notification of Rights and Procedures

The Superintendent or designee will notify parents/guardians of:

1. this Policy and its availability upon request;

2. how to opt their child out of participation in activities as provided for in this Policy;

3. the approximate date(s) when a survey, evaluation, or analysis that would reveal sensitive

information is scheduled or expected to be scheduled;

4. the approximate date(s) when the District or its agents intend to administer a

non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening required as a

condition of attendance (except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings);

and

5. how to inspect any survey or other material described in this Policy.

This notification will be given to parents/guardians at least annually at the beginning of the school

year and within a reasonable period after any substantive change to this Policy. Parents/guardians

who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:

Student Privacy Policy Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202

Legal authority: 20 USC 1232h

Date adopted: 2/28/2022

APPENDIX D: DIRECTORY INFORMATION AND OPT OUT FORM

5309 Student Records and Directory Information

The District may collect, retain, use, and disclose student education records consistent with state

and federal law.

A. Definitions

1. An “education record” is a record directly related to a student that the District or its agents

maintain, except that an education record does not include:

a. records kept in the maker’s sole possession that are used as a personal memory

aid and that are not accessible or revealed to any person except a temporary substitute for

the maker;

b. records maintained by a law enforcement unit of the District, as defined by the

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), if the record was created for a law

enforcement purpose;

c. records relating to a student who is at least 18 years old that are created or

maintained by a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other recognized professional or

paraprofessional acting or assisting in that capacity that are created or maintained only for

the student’s treatment (exclusive of remedial educational activities or educational activities

that are part of the District’s instructional program) and that are disclosed only to persons

providing treatment (except that the records may be personally reviewed by a physician or

other appropriate professional of the student’s choice);

d. records created or received by the District after a person is no longer a student in

the District and that are not directly related to the person’s attendance as a student in the

District;

e. grades on peer-graded papers or assignments before they are collected or recorded

by a teacher; or

f. records relating to a person employed by the District that are maintained in the

normal course of business, relate only to the person’s employment, and are not available for

any other purpose. Records relating to a person employed as a result of that person’s status

as a student are, however, “education records.”

2. “Personally identifiable information” means a student’s name; the name of a student’s

parent/guardian or family member; the student’s address or the address of a family member; a

personal identifier, such as the student’s social security number, student number, or biometric

record; other indirect identifiers, such as the student’s date of birth, place of birth, and mother’s

maiden name; other information that alone or in combination is linked or linkable to a specific

student that would allow a reasonable person in the school community, who does not have personal

knowledge of the relevant circumstances, to identify the student with reasonable certainty; or

information requested by a person who the District reasonably believes knows the identity of the

student to whom the education record relates.

3. “Directory information” is the information contained in a student’s education record that would not

generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. The Board designates the

following as directory information

a. student names, addresses, and telephone numbers;

b. photographs, including photographs and videos depicting a student’s participation in

school-related activities and classes;

c. date and place of birth;

d. major field of study;

e. grade level;

f. enrollment status (e.g., full-time or part-time);

g. dates of attendance (e.g., 2013-2017);

h. participation in officially recognized activities and sports;

i. weight and height of athletic team members;

j. degrees, honors, and awards received; and

k. the most recent educational agency or institution attended.

The Board further designates District-assigned student email addresses as directory information for

the limited purposes of: (1) facilitating the student’s participation in and access to online learning

platforms and applications; and (2) inclusion in internal school and District email address books.

B. Collection and Retention of Records

School officials may collect and retain information about the District’s students that is reasonably

necessary for the District to perform its role as a public school district, including, without limitation,

student work samples, assessments, evaluations, surveys, health and medical information,

immunization records, birth certificates, proof of residence, proof of achievements and awards,

behavior records, investigation reports, incident reports, attendance records, all records necessary

for the District to satisfy state or federal legal obligations, and any record necessary for the District

to prove that a student was accurately counted in membership for state aid and grant purposes.

The Superintendent or designee will ensure that all student records are retained consistent with the

Records Retention and Disposal Schedule for Michigan Public Schools and Policy 3502 and that

reasonable steps (including, without limitation, physical or technological controls) are taken to

protect education records, including those stored electronically, from inadvertent or unauthorized

disclosure.

C. Right to Inspect and Review Education Records

Parents/guardians may inspect and review their minor child’s education records, regardless of

custody status, unless a court order specifically provides otherwise. Parents/guardians may also

inspect and review the education records of an “eligible student” if the student is considered a

dependent under Internal Revenue Code Section 152. An “eligible student” means a student who is

at least 18 years old, an emancipated minor, or a student enrolled in a postsecondary institution.

Eligible students have the right to inspect and review their own education records.

The District will not disclose a student’s or parent’s/guardian’s phone number or address or the

parent’s/guardian’s employment address to another person who is the subject of a court order that

prohibits disclosure of the information if the District has received a copy of the order. The District will

not disclose a confidential address, phone number, or email address in violation of the Address

Confidentiality Program Act if the student or the student’s parent/guardian notifies the District that

the student or the student’s parent/guardian has obtained a participation card issued by the

department of attorney general.

The District will make arrangements for a parent/guardian or eligible student to inspect and review

the student’s education records within a reasonable time from receiving a request and not more

than 30 calendar days from the date of the request or, if the student whose records are requested is

a child with a disability as defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, before any

Individualized Education Program Team meeting, resolution meeting, or due process hearing.

D. Right to Request Explanation or Interpretation of Student Education Records

A parent/guardian or eligible student may request, in writing, an explanation or interpretation of a

student’s education records. School officials will respond to any reasonable request.

E. Right to Request Amendment of Education Records

A parent/guardian or eligible student may request that a student’s education record be amended if

the parent/guardian or eligible student believes the record is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in

violation of the student’s privacy rights. The Superintendent will develop administrative guidelines

explaining the process by which a parent/guardian or eligible student may request an amendment to

the student’s records and that the parent/guardian or eligible student has the right to a hearing if the

District refuses the request.

F. Disclosure of Education Records to School Officials

Except as noted in “Disclosure to a For-Profit Business Entity” (section J), a school official may

receive and review personally identifiable information from a student’s education record only if the

school official has a legitimate educational interest in

the information. A school official has a “legitimate educational interest” if the record review is

necessary for the school official to perform an administrative, supervisory, or instructional task as

assigned by the District or to perform a service or benefit for the student or the student’s family. For

purposes of this Policy, a “school official” is any person employed by the District. The Board further

designates the following persons and entities as “school officials”:

1. a person or company with whom the Board has contracted to perform a specific task (such

as an attorney, auditor, insurance representative, medical consultant, or online educational service

provider or vendor);

2. a contractor, consultant, volunteer, or other party to whom the Board has outsourced a

service or function otherwise performed by District employees (e.g., a therapist, a school resource

officer, or an authorized information technology specialist);

3. a parent/guardian or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary,

reinstatement, or grievance committee; and

4. a person, including a volunteer, who is assisting another school official in performing the

official’s duties.

The above-identified persons and entities must: (a) perform institutional services or functions for

which the District would otherwise use its own employees, (b) be under the direct control of the

District as to the use and maintenance of education records, and (c) be subject to the requirements

of FERPA regulations governing the use and re-disclosure of personally identifiable information from

education records.

The Superintendent or designee will adopt procedures, including physical and technological

controls, to ensure that only those school officials with a legitimate educational interest may access

personally identifiable information from a student’s education records.

G. Disclosure of “Directory Information”

Except as otherwise stated in this Policy, school officials may disclose “directory information”

without the prior written consent of a parent/guardian or eligible student unless the parent/guardian

or eligible student specifically notifies the District that the parent/guardian or eligible student does

not consent to the disclosure of the student’s directory information for 1 or more of the uses for

which the District would commonly disclose the information.

The District will provide parents/guardians and eligible students with a Directory Information Opt Out

Form, listing all uses for which it commonly discloses student directory information. The form will

allow the parent/guardian or eligible student to elect not to have the student’s directory information

disclosed for 1 or more of the listed uses. Upon receipt of a completed Directory Information Opt

Out Form, school officials may not release the student’s directory information for any of the uses

selected on the form.

The Superintendent or designee will provide the Directory Information Opt Out form to all

parents/guardians or eligible students within the first 30 days of the school year. The form will also

be made available at a parent’s/guardian’s or eligible student’s request at any time during the school

year. If the parent/guardian or eligible student does not return the form, the District may release

directory information as permitted by law. The Directory Information Opt Out form will be kept on file

for 1 year.

To ensure that directory information is not improperly used, the Superintendent or designee may

require that a person requesting directory information execute an affidavit stating that, if disclosed,

the directory information will not be used, rented, or sold for the purpose of surveys, marketing, or

solicitation.

H. Disclosure of Education Records to Another School

School officials may release or disclose personally identifiable information contained in a student’s

education record without the consent of the parent/guardian or eligible student to another school or

post-secondary institution in which the student seeks or intends to enroll, is enrolled, or from which

the student receives services, if the disclosure is related to the student’s enrollment or transfer.

I. Tagged Records and Record Transfers

Upon notification by a law enforcement agency that a student under age 17 is missing, the building

principal or designee will tag the student’s record in a manner that will alert both District and ISD

personnel that the student is considered missing. Within 7 calendar days after receiving notice from

a law enforcement agency that a student is no longer considered missing, the building principal or

designee will remove the tag from the student’s record. Within 30 calendar days after receiving a

request from a school in which a student has enrolled, the building principal or designee will forward

the student’s education records to the requesting school unless the student’s record has been

tagged as described in this Policy. If the record has been tagged, the building principal or designee

will not forward the student’s education records to the requesting school and will notify law

enforcement.

J. Disclosure to a For-Profit Business Entity

School officials will not sell or otherwise provide any personally identifiable information that is part of

a student’s education records to a for-profit business entity, except as follows:

1. an employee or agent of a business entity acting as a “school official” as defined in this

Policy;

2. pursuant to a management agreement between a public school academy and an

educational management organization;

3. as necessary for standardized testing; or

4. as necessary to a person who is providing educational or educational support services to

the student pursuant to a contract with the school.

K. Disclosure of Education Records in Response to Subpoena/Court Order

To the extent consistent with state law, including the nondisclosure requirements of Revised

Judicature Act Section 2165, school officials may release or disclose personally identifiable

information contained in a student’s education records without the consent of the parent/guardian or

eligible student upon receipt of a court order or lawfully issued subpoena requiring disclosure of the

information. To the extent permitted or required by law, before complying with a court order or

subpoena, school officials must notify the parent/guardian or eligible student, in writing, that the

District intends to comply with the court order or subpoena.

L. Disclosure of Education Records in Other Circumstances

Except as provided in this Policy, the District and its employees and agents are prohibited from

disclosing personally identifiable information from a student’s education records without the written

consent of a parent/guardian or eligible student unless the disclosure is otherwise permitted or

required by law, including, without limitation, if the disclosure is:

● necessary because of a health or safety emergency;

● to authorized state or federal officials;

● in connection with a student’s application for or receipt of financial aid;

● made for purposes of conducting a study for or on behalf of an educational agency or institution;

● to an accrediting organization;

● concerning a registered sex offender; or

● to a representative of a child welfare agency for a foster child.

A school official may not disclose personally identifiable information from a student’s education

records unless disclosure is consistent with the requirements of state and federal law, including

FERPA.

M. Disclosure Logs

The Superintendent or designee will maintain, to the extent required by law, a log of those persons

to whom personally identifiable information from a student’s education records has been disclosed.

The record will identify the student whose information was disclosed, the person or entity who

requested or received the information, the information that was disclosed, the date the

parent/guardian or eligible student provided written consent (if necessary for the disclosure), a

legitimate reason for the disclosure, and any other information required by law. Subject to the

limitations below, a parent/guardian or eligible student may request, in writing, information related to

disclosure of personally identifiable information by the District. This information includes:

● the specific personally identifiable information that was disclosed by the District;

● the name and contact information of each person, agency, or organization to which the District

disclosed the student’s personally identifiable information; and

● the legitimate reason that the person, agency, or organization had in obtaining the personally

identifiable information.

The District is not required to provide information about the disclosure of personally identifiable

information if the personally identifiable information is:

1. provided to MDE or CEPI;

2. provided to the eligible student or the student’s parent/guardian;

3. provided to an intermediate school district providing services pursuant to a written

agreement;

4. provided by an intermediate school district to a school district or to a public school

academy in which the pupil is enrolled or to a school district or public school academy providing

services to the pupil pursuant to a written agreement;

5. provided to a person, agency, or organization with the written consent of the eligible

student or the student’s parent/guardian;

6. provided to a person, agency, or organization in accordance with an order, subpoena, or

ex parte order issued by a court of competent jurisdiction;

7. provided as necessary for standardized assessments that measure the student’s academic

progress and achievement;

8. covered by the District’s Directory Information Opt Out Form, unless the parent/guardian or

eligible student has signed and submitted the Opt Out Form.

N. Video Recordings

A video recording that is directly related to a student may be an “education record” (e.g., when it is

maintained to document student conduct or misconduct, unless it is maintained by a law

enforcement unit and used solely for a law enforcement purpose). The Superintendent or designee

will determine, on a case-by-case basis, upon receipt of a request for the video’s disclosure,

whether a particular video is an “education record” and whether it contains “personally identifiable

information” about a student. If the Superintendent or designee determines that a video recording is

an “education record,” its release and disclosure and the rights of parents/guardians and eligible

students to inspect and review the video recording are governed by this Policy, applicable laws, and

relevant state and federal guidance.

O. Disclosure of Records to Law Enforcement

Nothing in this Policy limits a school official’s right or duty under state law or pursuant to the

Statewide School Safety Information Policy to contact law enforcement to report possible criminal

activity. A school official may not, however, disclose personally identifiable information from a

student’s education records to law enforcement without the prior written consent of a

parent/guardian or eligible student unless disclosure is otherwise permitted or required by state or

federal law (e.g., in response to a health or safety emergency or a court order or subpoena). If a

school official reports possible criminal activity of a student with a disability as defined by the

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the school official must transmit a copy of the student’s

special education records and disciplinary records to the authorities to whom the crime is reported in

a manner consistent with FERPA (i.e., with prior written consent or a lawful exception to consent).

Except for disclosures in response to a health or safety emergency, school officials must seek

written consent to transmit the records of a student with a disability immediately after reporting the

student’s potential criminal activity to authorities.

P. Disclosure of Information to Military Recruiter

The District will provide recruiters of the Armed Forces of the United States with at least the same

access to the high school campus and to directory information as is provided to other entities

offering educational or employment opportunities to those students, as required by state and federal

law. “Armed Forces of the United States” means the armed forces of the United States and their

reserve components and the United States Coast Guard.

The Directory Information Opt Out Form must include the option to opt out of the disclosure of the

student’s directory information to recruiters of the Armed Forces of the United States. Upon receipt

of a written “opt out,” school officials may not release the student’s directory information to recruiters

of the Armed Forces of the United States. The District may charge a fee, not to exceed the actual

costs of copying and mailing the requested directory information, to recruiters of the Armed Forces

of the United States, to the same extent it charges other organizations.

Q. Annual Notice Requirements

The Superintendent or designee will send an annual notice to parents/guardians and eligible

students notifying them of the following:

1. the right to inspect and review their student’s education records;

2. the right to seek amendment of their student’s education records, the process for

requesting amendment, and applicable hearing procedures;

3. the identity of designated “school officials” and the definition of “legitimate educational

interest”;

4. the definition of “directory information” and notice that their student’s directory information

may be disclosed without consent unless the parent/guardian or eligible student opts out of allowing

disclosure;

5. the District’s practice to disclose a student’s education records, including disciplinary

records, to another school or post-secondary institution in which the student seeks or intends to

enroll or is enrolled;

6. the right to consent to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from a student’s

education record before its disclosure, unless a nonconsensual disclosure is otherwise authorized

by law;

7. the right to opt out of disclosure of directory information to recruiters for Armed Forces of

the United States and their service academies;

8. the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education alleging that the District

violated FERPA; and

9. the right to obtain a copy of the Board’s policies and administrative regulations about

student records.

Legal authority: 20 USC 1401 et seq., 1232g, 7165, 7908; 26 USC 152; 34 CFR Part 99,

300; MCL 15.243(2); MCL 380.1134-1136, 380.1137a, 380.1279g; MCL

600.2165; MCL 722.30; MCL 780.855, 780.871; Records Retention and

Disposal Schedule for Michigan Public Schools

Date adopted: 2/28/2022

APPENDIX E: ACCEPTABLE USE AGREEMENT

3116 District Technology and Acceptable Use

The Board will provide students, staff, volunteers, and other authorized users access to the District’s

technology resources, including its computers and network resources, in a manner that encourages

responsible use. Any use of District technology resources that violates federal or state law is

expressly prohibited.

A. Children’s Internet Protection Act

The Board complies with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (“CIPA”) and directs its

administration to:

1. Monitor minors’ online activities and use technology protection measures on the District’s

computers with internet access to block minors’ access to visual depictions that are obscene,

constitute child pornography, or are harmful to minors. The term “harmful to minors” means any

picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that:

a. taken as a whole and as to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex, or

excretion;

b. depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way as to what Is suitable

for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated

normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; and

c. taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for

minors.

2. Use technology protection measures on the District’s computers with internet access to

block all access to visual depictions that are obscene or that constitute child pornography. The

technology protection measures may be disabled by authorized personnel during adult use to

enable access to bona fide research or for other lawful purposes. The Superintendent or designee

will determine which District personnel are authorized to disable the protection measures.

3. Educate minors about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other people

on social networking websites and chat rooms, as well as cyberbullying awareness and response.

4. Prohibit access by minors to inappropriate matter on the internet.

5. Prohibit unauthorized access, including hacking and other unlawful online activity by

minors.

6. Prohibit the unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification

information about minors.

7. Restrict minors’ access to materials that are inappropriate for minors. The Board defines

materials that are “inappropriate for minors” to include: obscene depictions, child pornography, and

any other material harmful to minors.

8. Encourage the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and

other forms of direct electronic communication.

The Superintendent or designee will take steps necessary to implement this Policy and to otherwise

comply with CIPA.

B. Acceptable Use Agreement

The Superintendent or designee will develop, review, and revise as necessary an acceptable use

agreement that must be signed before a user is provided access to the District’s technology

resources. Different acceptable use agreements may be developed based on the user’s status. At a

minimum, the Superintendent or designee will develop an acceptable use agreement to be signed

by each of the following groups:

● adult users, including employees, volunteers, and Board members;

● students in grades 7 and above and their parent/guardian; and

● students in grades 6 and below and their parent/guardian.

The acceptable use agreement must be consistent with this Policy and must include, at a minimum,

all of the following:

1. A statement that:

a. use of District technology resources is a privilege that may be revoked at any time;

b. a user has no expectation of privacy when using District technology resources;

c. District technology resources use may be monitored by the District and that the use may

be subject to FOIA or disclosure in litigation;

d. District technology resources may not be used to bully, harass, or intimidate others;

e. misuse of District technology resources may result in loss of access to the resources and

potential disciplinary action; and

f. the District does not guarantee that the District’s technology resources will be error free or

uninterrupted.

2. Provisions to protect the integrity of District technology resources, including a requirement that

each user only access the resources by using that user’s assigned user name and password.

3. A list of what constitutes misuse of District technology resources.

4. A prohibition against:

a. accessing other user accounts or files without authorization;

b. conducting personal business or activities;

c. accessing pornography;

d. communicating inappropriately with students;

e. accessing or downloading confidential student information which the employee has no

legitimate educational need to know; and

f. accessing or downloading unauthorized software or programs.

5. A requirement that users report any material that is threatening, harassing, or bullying.

6. A release of all claims and liability against the District for use of District technology resources.

C. District Personnel Use

District personnel must comply with Policies 4215 and 4216.

D. Public Access to Technology

1. Pursuant to the Michigan Library Privacy Act, each school library offering public access to the

internet or a computer, computer program, computer network, or computer system (a “Qualifying

School Library”) will limit minors to only use or view those terminals that do not receive material that

is obscene, sexually explicit, or harmful to minors. Persons age 18 or older, or a minor accompanied

by the minor’s parent/guardian, may access a school library terminal that is not restricted from

receiving such material, if any.

2. Only when a Qualifying School Library offers public access as described in subsection D.1., the

District must designate at least 1 terminal that is not restricted from receiving such material and at

least 1 terminal that is restricted from receiving such material. Library staff must take steps to

ensure that minors not accompanied by a parent or guardian do not access the unrestricted

terminal. The Superintendent or designee will determine which employees will implement

subsection D in each Qualifying School Library.

3. As used in this Policy, “terminal” means a device used to access the internet or a computer,

computer program, computer network, or computer system.

Legal authority: 47 USC 254; MCL 397.602, 397.606

Date adopted: 2/28/2022

APPENDIX F: ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT

Participation in Charlotte Public School’s (the “District”) athletics is a privilege, not a right. Student-

athletes are students first. When participating in District athletics, student-athletes are District

representatives and are held to the highest standards. Accordingly, this Athletic Code of Conduct

applies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Student-athletes and parents should be familiar with this

Athletic Code of Conduct. By participating on any school-sponsored athletic team both student-

athletes and parents agree to abide by these terms.

Athletic Director: R.J. Guizzetti

517-541-5160

guizzer@charlottenet.org

Assistant Athletic Director: Mike Sparks

517-541-5160

sparksm@charlottenet.org

Communication Protocol

The District has full faith in its coaches to make decisions that are in the best interest of their teams.

If parents have questions or concerns about their student-athletes’ sports participation, use the

following protocol:

• Wait 24 hours before contacting the coach.

• Schedule a time to speak with the coach, either via phone or in-person, at the coach’s

discretion.

• If the issue is unresolved, schedule a time to speak with the Athletic Director, either via phone

or in-person, at the Athletic Director’s discretion.

Concussion Protocol

The District will comply with the concussion protocol in Policy 5712.

Athletic Code of Conduct

A student-athlete must:

• Learn and understand the rules and regulations of your sport.

• Unless otherwise approved by your coach, if school is in session, attend school for the full day

to be eligible to practice or play in an event on the same day.

• Comply with the law, Board Policy, the Student Code of Conduct, the Athletic Code of Conduct,

and all team rules. Failure to comply with this provision may result in suspension or removal

from a team.

• Not possess, use, or consume alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, nicotine (including a vape), or

controlled substances (other than those prescribed by a physician for the student-athlete).

• Not engage in conduct that is unbecoming of student-athletes.

• Maintain academic eligibility as required by the Michigan High School Athletic Association.

• Notify your coach or District athletic trainer of any injury or medical condition that may affect

your athletic participation.

If a student-athlete violates any provision of the Athletic Code of Conduct, practice, game, team, or

complete athletic suspension may result. Any disciplinary consequences will be at the sole discretion

of the Athletic Director or designee.

If a student-athlete is suspended or expelled from school, the student-athlete is prohibited from

participating in any practice or game during the suspension or expulsion.

Charlotte Athletics

Code of Conduct

Student & Parent

MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL

INTRODUCTION

The Board of Education, Administration and athletic staff of Charlotte Public Schools

consider athletics to be an integral part of the school's curriculum of education that provides

experiences that will aid in the physical, mental, emotional, and social development of young

people.

Student/athletes represent Charlotte Schools at all times. Student/athletes serve as a role

model for other students by conducting themselves in a manner that brings pride to them, their

team, their school and community.

The primary goal of athletic competition is to teach student/athletes the necessary

commitment of mental and physical discipline to be successful. Charlotte High School and

Middle School support this endeavor. Student/athletes will learn how to set realistic goals for

themselves and use them to develop their potential to the fullest capacity.

When students elect to participate in athletics, it is a privilege that involves voluntarily making

a choice of self-discipline. One of the finest lessons to be learned in athletics is to take care of

oneself physically in order to develop a healthy body, alert mind and strong character.

The following guidelines have been developed by the Charlotte Athletic Department and

approved by the Charlotte Board of Education. They are intended to help student/athletes

make good decisions concerning themselves and the Charlotte Public School District they

represent.

It is the responsibility of the student/athletes to stay within these guidelines along with the

guidance set by parents or guardians. The Athletic Department, in conjunction with the

Charlotte Board of Education, reserves the right to hold those individuals associated with a

team accountable for his/her actions according to this policy. (Example: student/athlete,

manager, statistician personnel, etc.)

FRESHMAN

The basic philosophy at the freshmen level is to provide the student/athlete with proper

skills and fundamentals so as to develop them for the next level of participation. It is our intent

to provide playing time for all qualified team members. Within reason, playing time is more

important than winning and losing.

CHARLOTTE MIDDLE AND SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

CHARLOTTE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

ATHLETIC EXPECATIONS AND REGULATIONS

PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY

JUNIOR VARSITY

Almost all players on the junior varsity team have had prior experience in that sport and

have decided to make a commitment to that program for the next couple of years. The balance

between playing time for everyone, the improvement of individual skills and the introduction to

more advanced team concepts for the more advanced player is beginning to shift. No longer

will the emphasis be on every player getting playing time, but it will change more towards team

concept. A key ingredient is how well does the player's individual skill fit into the total team

framework. This is not to say that only the starting players will play, but the team concept must

be developed and a winning attitude established.

VARSITY:

This level is the ultimate in interscholastic athletics. By this time, the student/athletes

have been exposed to their individual sport for several years and have the background to make

the commitment necessary to play at Charlotte. Winning is very important, but only within the

ethical concepts of com- petition. The most important factor for a student/athlete to be

successful at this level is that he/she knows and understands his/her role on the team.

PREVIOUS HIGH SCHOOL SEMESTER RECORDS

High school student/athletes must have passed at least a minimum of 67% of full credit

load the previous semester to be eligible to participate in athletics.

CURRENT HIGH SCHOOL SEMESTER RECORDS

Student athletes at the high school must be carrying and passing at 67% of full credit load

during the present semester up to within seven (7) days of contest. Grade checks will be

conducted at midterm, 9 weeks and end of semester.

MIDDLE SCHOOL SEMESTER RECORDS

Middle School student/athletes must pass 66% of the total periods of work carried the

previous semester. A first year middle school student may compete without reference to his/her

record in the sixth grade.

MICHIGAN HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

ELIGIBILITY STANDARDS

Charlotte High School student/athletes must meet MHSAA standards and demonstrate

academic progress in at least one of the following ways prior to trying out for any sport.

• 1. Minimally achieve a cumulative 2.0 G.P.A. in either the 9 week or semester period

previous to competition, AND have passed at least 80% of a full course load in that previous 9

week or semester period.

• 2. Students not meeting the cumulative 2.0 G.P.A. minimum may try out and will be

place on probation. At the next grade reporting period they must either have the 2.0 G.P.A. or

be passing all classes taken. Failure to meet this standard will mean immediate dismissal from

the team.

i. Once a student/athlete has used #2 (probationary provision) to gain initial

eligibility they must on all subsequent grade reports, both prior to and during

competition, demonstrate G.P.A. improvement until they meet the 2.0

G.P.A. standard. Failure to demonstrate such progress will mean loss of eligibility.

EXAMPLE: In the fall, a 10th grade student goes out for boys cross country but has a

1.85 G.P.A. At the first term mid-marking, he passes all classes and therefore maintains

eligibility. In the following March, he wishes to go out for baseball. His G.PA in the

previous 9 weeks was 1.96 and he passed all classes. He has eligibility, but again, at

the mid-marking period he must be passing all classes. If his GPA had fallen to a 1.80

GPA he would not be eligible to participate even if all classes were passed the previous

9 weeks or semester.

INCOMING FRESHMAN ELIGIBILITY (FALL SPORTS ONLY)

Student/athletes at the end of their 8th grade year must be passing two-thirds of a full course

load to be eligible. If they fail to do so, they will be placed on probation and at the mid-term

marking period they must be passing all classes. Failure to demonstrate such progress will

mean a loss of eligibility.

The purpose of the above Charlotte High School standards is to reinforce that student/athletes

are to be students before they can be athletes.

PHYSICAL EXAMINATION and PAPERWORK

Student/athletes must pass a current year (April 15-April 14) physical examination and have the

form signed by an M.D. or D.O. The examination must be given on or after April 15 of the previous

school year. The physical form (card) must be on file in the athletic director's office before he/she may

practice or participate in any sport (MHSAA rule). The Charlotte High School Athletic Department

schedules physicals for high school students every year. We will hold physicals at the high school for

athletes in June. There will be a fee for physicals.

All paperwork must be turned in before athlete may participate. (Consent forms are at the end of this

CHARLOTTE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

LOCAL DISTRICT ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY STANDARDS

HIGH SCHOOL & MIDDLE SCHOOL

document before the Appendix.)

- Physical

-Impact Testing (Every other year)

-Concussion Awareness

-Athletic Handbook sign off

-Consent for Trainer treatment

ATHLETIC PARTICIPATON FEE:

Student athletes are required to pay an annual participation fee before the start of the first game.

This fee is currently $100 for high school athletes. There is no participation fee for the middle school.

DUAL SPORT ATHLETES:

A Student may participate in DUAL sports. However, it is the student/athletes responsibility to obtain

and fill-out the major/minor sport application from the athletic office, before the first day of practice.

There also is an understanding that parents may have to transport to some events because of

the added time needed for practice or multiple competitions on the same day. Application is

located on the Athletic Website and in the athletic office.

Dual sport requests will only be granted by the Athletic Director at the beginning of the season

and only for athletes that have filled out paperwork and are anticipated to compete at a high

level.

(See Appendix C)

The Charlotte Public Schools are a voluntary member of the Michigan High School Athletic Association

(MHSAA). The MHSAA rules listed in this brochure are only a summary of some of the regulations

effecting student eligibility. Most rules can be found in the MHSAA Handbook that is located in the

school administrative offices. Review these rules and ask questions of your principal, athletic director

and coaches. Following the rules will ensure eligibility to participate in interscholastic sports. Rule

violations could place a student/athlete on ineligible status. Participation as an ineligible athlete in

any contest would result in the forfeiture of those contests.

AGE - HIGH SCHOOL:

A high school student/athlete who competes in any interscholastic athletic contests must be

under nineteen (19) years of age. Exception: A student/athlete whose nineteenth (19th) birthday occurs

MICHIGAN HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

ATHLETIC REQUIREMENTS

on or after September 1 of a current school year is eligible for the balance of that school year. (MHSAA

rule)

AGE - MIDDLE SCHOOL:

A seventh or eighth grade student who competes in any interscholastic athletic contest must be

under fourteen 14) or fifteen (15) years of age respectively. Exception: A student who reaches that

birthday on or after September 1 of a current school year is eligible for interscholastic athletic contests

for the balance of that school year. (MHSAA rule)

ENROLLMENT:

Students must be enrolled in a high school prior to the fourth Friday after Labor Day (1st

semester) or the fourth Friday of February (2nd semester). A student must be enrolled in the school

for which he/she competes and can not practice or participate in a sport until they are fully enrolled.

SEMESTERS OF ENROLLMENT:

Students cannot be eligible in high school athletics for more than eight semesters, and the

seventh and eighth semesters must be consecutive. Students are allowed four first semesters and four

second semesters of competition and cannot compete if they have graduated from high school.

TRANSFER STUDENTS:

A student in grades 9 through 12 who transfers to another high school is not eligible to

participate in an interscholastic contest for one calendar year in any sport they played at their

previous school, unless the student qualifies for immediate eligibility under one or more of the fifteen

published exceptions. Contact the Charlotte High Athletic Office for the published list.

SCHOOL OF CHOICE:

The action of the Michigan Legislature to include "school of choice" within intermediate school

districts does not affect the athletic eligibility of transferring students. Students who transfer by choice

from one school to another and do not otherwise satisfy the transfer regulation are ineligible for inter-

scholastic athletics for one full semester. In the 2023-24 school year they will be ineligible for one full

year if they have participated at the high school level.

UNDUE INFLUENCE:

The use of undue influence by any person directly or indirectly associated with a school to secure

or encourage the attendance of a student for athletic purposes shall cause the student to become

ineligible for a minimum of one semester.

LIMITED TEAM MEMBERSHIP:

After practicing with or participating with high school teams, students cannot participate in any

athletic competition not sponsored by his or her school in the same sport during the same season.

Exceptions include ice hockey and all individual sports that apply the rule from the point of a student's

first participation in a contest or scrimmage rather than practice. Students in individual sports may

participate in a maximum of two (2) non-school individual meets or contests during the school season

while not representing their school.

ALL STAR COMPETITION:

Students shall not compete at any sport under MHSAA jurisdiction in All-Star contests or national

championships regardless of the method of selection. Participation in such a contest shall cause that

student to become ineligible for a maximum period of one year of school enrollment.

AWARDS AND AMATEURISM (MHSAA):

Students cannot receive money or other valuable consideration for participating in MHSAA

sponsored sports or officiating in interscholastic athletic contests, except as allowed by the MHSAA

Handbook. Students may accept, for participation in MHSAA sponsored sports, a symbolic or

merchandise award that may not exceed MHSAA dollar value. For that value please contact the

athletic office. Banquets, luncheons, dinners, trips and admissions to camps or events are

permit- ted if accepted "in kind." Awards in the form of cash, merchandise, certificates, or any

other negotiable documents are never allowed.

Practice and contests are mandatory for all student/athletes. To be excused, the student/athlete

must notify the coach prior to the practice or contest. Absences should be avoided whenever possible

so as not to miss valuable instruction.

Anyone missing a practice or a contest without permission from his/her coach will be unexcused. Two

unexcused absences will be grounds for dismissal from the team. Excused school attendance will be

considered an excused absence.

Practice sessions on weekends and after normal school hours are to be scheduled with the building

athletic director. Under normal circumstances, Sunday practices or contests are not to be

scheduled. Exceptions will be allowed at the varsity level only, and are to be approved in advance

by the athletic director.

TRYOUTS:

Student/athletes have a right to know the standards upon which participants are selected for a team.

All student/athletes must have an opportunity (at least 3 days) to demonstrate their skill and abilities

before cuts are made in any sport. The coach will meet with each individual and attempt to explain

reasons why he/she did not make the team.

GENERAL TEAM GUIDELINES

PRACTICE AND CONTEST PARTICIPATION

TEAM PLACEMENT AT A LEVEL OTHER THAN THE DESIGNATED AGE OR GRADE

LEVEL:

Student/athletes will begin practice with their own age or grade level. After consultation with

assistant coaches, the head coach will recommend any level change to the athletic director for approval.

If administrative approval is granted, the head coach will discuss the move with the player and parents

of the player. If all parties agree that the move is in the overall best interest of the player, team, and

program, then the move will be allowed to be made.

The physical, emotional, and social well-being of the athlete will be the main criteria used in this

decision. The above criteria are designed for sports that have two or three levels of competition. Some

sports, such as wrestling, tennis, golf, cross country, and track, do not by their nature fit the above

criteria.

ROSTER MOVEMENT:

All students/athletes should be aware that roster movement (up or down) is a possibility during the

sport season. Decisions will be made by the coaches and the athletic administration regarding any

roster movement after meeting with the student/athlete and his/her parents.

PLAYING TIME:

Participating on an athletic team is a privilege, not a right. The coach determines playing time

based on the following; respect, attitude, self-discipline, coach ability, knowledge of the sport, athletic

talent, etc.

OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES:

Student/athletes at Charlotte Schools must remember that their first commitment is to their school-

sponsored team. Practice and contests with the school team come first before any outside sport

participation, unless given prior approval. Should the student/athlete violate this policy, it could be

grounds for team dismissal.

DROPPING OUT OF A SPORT:

If there are extenuating circumstances that necessitate dropping a sport during the first half of the

season, the student/athlete must consult the coach and explain the circumstances. Pending the

circumstances, the student/athlete may be granted a release.

If a student/athlete drops a sport without consulting the coach, they will not be allowed to participate

in another sport or in an off-season sport conditioning program during the same season unless

receiving permission from both coaches and the athletic director.

Student/athletes must return and/or pay for all issued equipment to the athletic department before

being released.

QUITTING A SPORT:

Quitting is a habit that can be very easy to acquire. When a student/athlete decides to participate

in a sport, and makes the team, the athletic department and coaches expect the student athlete to

complete the season. If a student/athlete is dismissed for disciplinary reasons during the last half of

the season, that student/athlete will be suspended for the first 20% of their next sports season.

The student/athlete will not be permitted to try out for another sport unless all issued equipment is

returned and/or paid for

FINE ARTS AND ATHLETICS:

Although every effort is made in the coordination of the school schedule to accommodate student

participation in both fine arts and athletics, occasional conflicts do occur. In these cases, it is important

that the student and/or family communicate with the fine arts director AND the coach or athletic director

to avoid misunderstanding. It is our goal never to have the student “caught in the middle” between

adult activity leaders. The fine arts and athletic departments work together to resolve conflicts as soon

as they occur. The details of each individual situation are taken into account, but the process to resolve

these conflicts follows these general guidelines:

i. Fine arts performances and athletic contests (games, matches, etc.) take

precedence over athletic practices or fine arts rehearsals.

ii. In the event that an athletic contest and a fine arts performance are schedules on the

same day, but not exactly the same time, efforts are made to adjust student report

times, warm-ups, and transportation arrangements. In many cases these

compromises make it possible for the student to participate in both activities,

particularly if parents are willing to be involved in transporting the student directly

from one event to the other.

iii. In the event that the fine arts performance and athletic contest are scheduled at

exactly the same time, the athletic director and band director make a joint decision

(with administrative input if needed) concerning which activity the student is to at-

tend. This is not a student decision, and is based on the relative importance of each

activity and the potential contribution of the student as a member.]

iv. If a fine arts rehearsal and athletic practice are at the same time or overlap, the fine

arts and athletic team in question will split the amount of time that is in direct conflict.

We are fortunate that our school has strong traditions of quality in both fine arts and athletics. It is

important that we maintain an environment of mutual support, respect, and cooperation to insure that

both programs remain strong and continue to create great opportunities for students in years to come.

UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT POLICY:

Student/athletes are responsible for any uniforms, equipment, etc., issued to them by the athletic

department. Student/athletes are expected to keep all issued items clean and in good condition. They

will be financially responsible for all items issued and will reimburse the athletic department for all items

not returned within one week after the season. They will not be permitted to try out for another sport

unless all items issued are returned and/or paid for.

Student/athletes are to wear only athletic department approved equipment.

JEWELRY:

Student athletes will follow the MHSAA rule for jewelry during contests. Coaches will direct athletes

on proper rules for wearing jewelry.

DRESS CODE AND CURFEW:

Student/athletes should wear appropriate attire on game day so as to represent our school and

team properly. (Ex: shirt, tie, slacks, dress, etc) Each coach may impose guidelines for a dress code

at their discretion, with administrative approval. A reasonable evening curfew may be suggested for

the benefit of each student/athlete. Proper rest is essential for a good performance.

STUDENT/ATHLETE ATTENDANCE:

Coaches will address the attendance policy with their athletes and are encouraged to check

daily attendance reports.

1. DAY OF CONTEST – In order to participate in a contest, the student/athlete must be in

attendance at least half of the school day unless the athletic director grants an "excused"

absence. Excused absences will be granted for medical appointments and legitimate

emergencies only. A half day absence due to illness MUST be a morning absence. A student

who leaves school early due to illness, will be considered too ill to compete that same

afternoon/evening.

2. DAY FOLLOWING CONTEST - The student/athlete must be in attendance at least half of the

school day following a contest in order to participate in the next contest of that sport season

except when the athletic director grants an "excused" absence.

3. SATURDAY CONTESTS - A student/athlete must be in attendance at least half of the school

day prior to the contest in order to participate except when the athletic director grants an

"excused" absence.

4. DAILY PRACTICE - a student/athlete must be in attendance at least half of the school day in

order to participate in a practice. A student who leaves school early due to illness, will be

considered too ill to participate that same afternoon/evening. The athletic director may grant

an "excused absence" to allow for participation.

5. CONTINUOUS OR PATTERNED ABSENCES may lead to game suspension or possible

squad dismissal.

NOTE: Student/athletes may be officially excused from participation by the athletic director

only when the absence is due to a doctor's appointment with a doctor's verification, or because

of significant or unusual circumstances. Notification by a parent is necessary by 1:00 p.m. on

the day of the absence.

Student/athletes should have their daily classroom work prepared for the day if they are

scheduled to leave early for a contest. Each student/athlete is responsible to get the next day's

assignment from their teacher and have it prepared for the class when they return.

INCLEMENT WEATHER DAYS:

• PRACTICE:

If school is cancelled prior to the start of a school day because of inclement weather, all practices

will be cancelled. If weather should permit later in the day, the varsity teams may have the possibility

of practicing after receiving authorization from the athletic director, per the superintendent.

• CONTESTS:

On inclement weather days the athletic director will be in communication with the school ad-

ministration and there will be a decision made by 2:00 p.m. the day of the contest. All Middle School

contests will be cancelled when school is called because of inclement weather.

TRANSPORTATION:

The athletic department believes there is a part of learning that takes place when both winning and

losing are experienced as a team. Student/athletes must travel to all away contests on authorized,

school-approved transportation and are encouraged to travel home on school transportation,

when available.

Student/athletes are expected to follow all transportation guidelines set by the school district

while being transported to and from a contest.

• TRAVEL EXCEPTIONS:

The student/athlete may travel home with his/her parent/guardian provided the transportation

per- mission form is signed by the parent/guardian, coach, and athletic director. Exceptions

may include:

1)School related activities

2)Family trips out of district,

3)Emergency medical treatment,

4)Family emergencies.

SAFETY AND INSURANCE CONSIDERATION FOR PARENT/GUARDIANS:

It is important to ensure that adequate health and accident insurance are in place in order to protect

against any unforeseen health or accident claims which may arise. It is the responsibility of the

parent/guardian to purchase and maintain such coverage for the student/athlete. The school district

does not provide insurance coverage for this purpose and does not intend to reimburse or pay for

medical bills of student/athletes who sustain injuries while participating in school activities.

Parent/guardians are encouraged to review their personal insurance coverage with their agent to

ensure adequate supplemental insurance coverage for accidents or injuries.

It is the responsibility of the school district to notify parents or guardians of the risk of serious bodily

injury and/or accidental death inherent in athletic activities, particularly in contact sports such as

football. The signing of the Student Athlete Code of Conduct by parent/guardian will serve as

acknowledgement of this communication and the granting of permission for the participation by the

student/athlete.

CONCUSSIONS:

Concussions are a very serious injury, coaches and parents are encouraged to review the

concussion protocol provided by the MHSAA website. Information located in Appendix A.

Students in contact sports will participate in IMPACT testing program. Information in

Appendix B

MHSAA rules require written authorization from a physician (MD/DO) before an athlete may

return to play after exhibiting concussion symptoms that caused that athlete to be re- moved

for the duration of a contest.

LENGTH OF SEASON:

The length of each season will be from the first official day of practice (which is set by the MHSAA)

until the conclusion of each sport's banquet. A student/athlete is expected to make a serious attempt

to attend his/her sport banquet. Appropriate dress and attire should be worn at all banquets. (Jeans

are not considered acceptable attire)

AWARDS EARNED BY STUDENT/ATHLETE:

1. At the freshman level the student/athlete will receive a certificate of participation.

2. At the junior varsity level student/athletes will receive a certificate of participation.

3. At the varsity level, student athletes will receive a varsity reserve certificate if they do not meet

the criteria for earning a letter in that sport. For those meeting their sport's criteria, they will

receive a varsity letter award certificate, a varsity "C" for their letter earned and a chevron.

(Only one letter "C" will be given during the four years of high school)

SPECIAL LEAGUE AWARDS:

1. All Conference Selections - athletes will receive an All-Conference certificate.

2. Academic All Conference Award - the athlete must:

a. Have at least one semester of grades at the high school level.

b. Have at least a 3.5 grade point average

POST SEASON AWARDS:

Violations involving alcohol or substance abuse will cause the student/athlete to forfeit all post sea-

son awards; certificate, letter, chevron, team awards, all-league, all area, all state honors, etc.

Exception: a student/athlete who is in good standing at the end of the season.

IN ADDITION: Student/athletes in violation of local, state or federal laws (ex: theft, extortion,

vandalism, assault, sexual misconduct, gross disrespect, etc.) during a season of participation will

forfeit all post season awards and honors including; certificate, letter, chevron, team award, all league

all area, all state honors, etc. Definition of "in violation" will be interpreted to mean when charged with

the offense by local or state authorities.

COLLEGE ELIGIBILITY:

The NCAA establishes academic standards for high school students that will determine college

athletic eligibility. The academic standards may change yearly, contact the athletic office if you have

questions.

NCAA CLEARINGHOUSE:

Any student/athlete who attends a Division I or II University and plans to participate in intercollegiate

athletics must complete a student release form and mail it to the NCAA Clearinghouse. Stop in the

athletic office and receive the proper forms to register with the Clearinghouse.

Students who elect to participate in athletics are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that

develops strong character, an alert mind, and a healthy body.

Choosing to participate in athletics means student/athletes are subject to the Athletic Code of Con-

duct in and out of school throughout the calendar year. Any conduct that is serious and reflects

negatively on the student/athlete, team or school, will result in disciplinary action determined by the

coach and/or the athletic director.

All penalties for violation of this Code of Conduct shall be cumulative beginning with the student's

participation in the freshman year. At the middle school level, penalties shall be cumulative from

seventh through eighth grade.

PROGRAM CONCERNS:

Charlotte Public Schools is very proud of its sound educational and athletic programs. As a result of

our commitment to continually strengthen the quality of our programs, we invite comments from the

public through the proper channels listed below.

When a person such as a student, parent, coach, teacher or administrator, has a question or concern

regarding an athletic situation, we have found the following line of communication very effective in re-

solving issues. The district requests that parents follow the 24 hour rule after competitions to discuss

issues with coaches. This helps to have effective communication about situations that arise.

1. Start with the source. Talk directly with the coach. This should involve the student athlete in

almost all situations, in private, face-to-face, away from the practice site or game arena. A

telephone call may be necessary to arrange an appointment.

2. If necessary, talk next with the head varsity coach of the sport.

3. If necessary, talk next with the athletic director.

4. If necessary, talk with the principal.

All complaints MUST be heard at the lowest possible level BEFORE intervention by the higher

authority can occur. This system has worked very well in the past. However, the next level of authority

will always be willing to meet with a complainant if sub-level discussions do not accomplish their in-

tended purpose.

Help the student/athlete learn to resolve his/her own differences. When a student successfully deals

with difficult situations, he/she learns and grows. Of course, a parent always has the right to intervene

on behalf of a child.

When stating your concern, be prepared with the facts in so far as you understand or can ascertain

them. Think through your expectations for the outcome resulting from voicing your concern. That is,

be clear about what you hope will happen as a result of your meeting.

As you converse with the coach, or other authority, repeat back what you hear him/her say to be

sure that you understand the important points. Stay calm and friendly as you talk and listen.

CHARLOTTE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

ATHLETIC CONDUCT GUIDELINES

We always assume that all parties have the best interest of the students in mind when concerns

are discussed. We will make every effort to assure that the student is not penalized or placed in an

awkward position as a result of voicing a concern.

UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT, DISQUALIFICATION, TECHNICAL FOULS:

Unsportsmanlike conduct is governed by the MHSAA and states. "...a student/athlete or coach will

be removed from the present contest and shall miss the next scheduled day of competition.” Depending

on the severity of the unsportsmanlike conduct, the student/athlete from Charlotte could be declared

ineligible for additional days of competition.

The athletic director will evaluate the severity of the unsportsmanlike conduct and determine the

additional suspension while taking into account profanity, vulgar gestures, behavioral sportsmanship,

etc. Disqualification and technical fouls are not what Charlotte athletics are all about. Should the dis-

qualification or technical foul warrant further discipline, the student/athlete may receive a suspension

from the team for a longer period of time. Unsportsmanlike conduct at Charlotte High School will not

be tolerated and will be disciplined. Continual unsportsmanlike conduct will result in dismissal from a

team. Unsportsmanlike conduct is not open for an appeal procedure.

VIOLATIONS OF TEAM EXPECTATIONS:

Charlotte student/athletes are expected to follow team expectations. When a coach decides to re-

move a student/athlete from practice or contest for what he/she considers to be inappropriate behavior,

misconduct, etc., that is considered the coach's discretion, and is not subject to appeal. Ex:

Disrespectful of team members, coaches, athletic support staff, officials, continual team disruption,

continual profanity, leaving practice without permission, tardiness, absenteeism, etc.

Violations of Team expectations- may result in or up to sitting out of practice, loss of playing time,

or being dismissed from team.

SCHOOL SUSPENSION:

Any form of school suspension reflects negatively on the student/athlete, team and school.

Serious or repeated infractions may be dealt with more severely as deemed appropriate by the

athletic director.

A student /athlete on suspension is not able to attend his/her regular classes or participate in extra-

curricular activities during the dates of the suspension. There is a loss of all social privileges.

DISCIPLINE INFRACTIONS

Consequences for substance abuse, alcohol, drugs and tobacco carry over season to season and

year to year. Example: If a student violates this policy in the winter of one school year, and does not

participate in a sport until the following school year, he/she would still serve the 25% suspension at

that time.

Substance abuse offenses can occur during school or out of school activities. Example: if the

police notify the school that a student has received a MIP that student would have an alcohol/substance

abuse offense.

CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL OR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES; SMOKING OR VAPING; USE OF

OTHER DRUGS; CRIMINAL CHARGES OR ACTIVITY; VIOLENCE; ACADEMIC FRAUD;

DISRESPECT OR INSUBORDINATION TOWARD STAFF:

Use, possession, concealment, distribution, sales or being under the influence. Proven academic

fraud could be plagiarism, cheating, etc. Any evidence of violence or domestic violence, or

insubordination toward a school staff member, coach or official would be a violation.

1ST OFFENSE - CONSEQUENCES:

1. A student guilty of a violation must serve a suspension of 25% of a full season. The student

must continue to practice and attend competitions, but cannot be in uniform.

2. A student guilty of a violation involving drugs or alcohol must ALSO undergo a

substance abuse evaluation prior to regaining eligibility.

3. The student may complete 10 hours of approved community service in order to have

their suspension reduced. The Athletic Director and Assistant Principal will determine

how much that suspension may be reduced.

2ND OFFENSE - CONSEQUENCES:

1. A student guilty of a second violation, regardless of what the two violations were for,

must serve a suspension of 50% of a full season. The student must continue to practice

and attend competitions, but cannot be in uniform.

2. The student must complete 20 hours of approved community service, but will not be

eligible to have the suspension reduced.

3. The student may be excused from some practices if it is necessary to complete the

community service at that time.

3RD OFFENSE-CONSEQUENCES:

1. A student guilty of a third violation, regardless of what the violations were for, will be

suspended from ALL athletic participation for one calendar year from the date of the

violation. The student cannot be on a team, nor can he/she practice with any team,

during this suspension.

CONSEQUENCES FOR USE OF ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE

NOTE: The list of offenses above is not intended to cover all potential violations of this Code

of Conduct. We cannot possibly list every possible violation. Behaviors that violate this Code

will be evaluated individually, even if they are not listed above or below under “Gross

Misconduct”.

SELF-DISCLOSURE:

Any student/athlete who, by him/herself or together with his/her parent or legal guardian, voluntarily

discloses a violation of the substance abuse policy (not including tobacco) under this Code prior to

any reports, charges, or complaints may be referred to the student assistance program and may be

referred to the substance abuse examination program. The student athlete can be required to follow

the assessment recommendation. Also, the student/athlete will not be given a consequence, but it

will count as one violation toward the Athletic Code of Conduct.

This self-disclosure policy will only be available to student/athletes once during their career.

GROSS MISCONDUCT is defined, but is not limited to: stealing extortion, vandalism, sexual

harassment, fighting, harassment or intimidation. Students are suspended from school for such

violations and therefore may not practice or participate in any Charlotte Public Schools activity.

Student/athletes may be additionally disciplined by their coach or the athletic director up to and

including dismissal from the team for GROSS MISCONDUCT. Violations of GROSS MISCONDUCT

at any time fall under this Code.

ALL OTHER VIOLATIONS of the Charlotte High School student handbook may lead to additional

discipline for any CHS student/athlete. Please remember that by choosing to participate in athletics

you are also choosing to represent CHS in a quality manner. Being disruptive in class, using profane

language, cheating in class, or engaging in any other negative behavior is not what is expected of a

student/athlete. Athletes engaging in such behavior may expect that their coach and/or Athletic Director

will bring violations to their attention and may, if appropriate, discipline a student/athlete beyond what

is called for in the CHS student handbook.

At the time that a disciplinary consequence is being assigned for inappropriate student

behavior, the parent or student athlete may disagree and wish to appeal to the next level of

administrative authority (high school principal). This should be initiated in writing with in 24

hours after parents and student are contacted. Any appeals beyond the high school principal

will be resolved by the superintendent or his/her designee.

APPEAL PROCEDURE

ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT CONTRACT

CHARLOTTE MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL

PARENT AND STUDENT

Please sign the form below and return to the Athletic Office before the first day of practice.

OUR SIGNATURE INDICATES WE HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS ATHLETIC CODE OF

CONDUCT:

________________________________________ ________________

Please Print – Student Athlete’s Name Grade

________________________________________ ________________

Student Athlete’s Signature Date

_________________________________________ ________________

Parent/Guardian’s Signature Date

I understand that the required Athletic Fee (HS) is Due Prior to the First Competition.

______________________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian’s Signature

CONCUSSION AWARENESS

EDUCATIONAL

MATERIAL

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

FORM

By my name and signature below, I acknowledge in accordance with Public Acts 342 and 343 of

2012 that I have received and reviewed the Concussion Fact Sheet for Parents and/or the

Concussion Fact Sheet for Students provided by Charlotte Public Schools

Sponsoring Organization

Participant Name Printed

Participant Name Signature

Return this signed form to the sponsoring organization that must keep on file for the duration of

participation or age 18.

Participants and parents please review and keep the educational materials available for future

reference

Parent or Guardian Name Printed

Parent or Guardian Name Signature

Date

ImPACT Concussion Testing

Results from the Athlete’s baseline test will be shared with Primary Care Physician and/or HGB

Im- PACT Physician for possible future care.

Physician Name: _________________________ Phone Number:_________________

I agree to participate in ImPACT testing.

Printed Name of Athlete:__________________________________________________

Signature of Athlete:_______________________________Date:__________________

If athlete is under the age of 18:

Parent Printed Name:____________________________________________________

Signature of Parent: ____________________________________Date:____________

If the Athlete displays concussion-like symptoms, it will be highly recommended for them to perform a

post- concussion ImPACT test, taken at AL!VE within 72 hours of injury, to determine a safe return to

play.

Any follow-up or post testing is at the cost of the student athlete. It is the responsibility of the

parent/guardian to maintain adequate health and/or accident insurance to ensure proper care of their

student athlete(s). Further- more, parents/guardians and student athletes are hereby notified that the

risk of serious bodily injury and/or accidental death is inherent in athletic activities, particularly in

contact sports.

As the parent/guardian, I understand that the ImPACT Concussion base line test is mandatory for all

contact sports (Football, Soccer, Wrestling, Basketball, Volleyball, Baseball, Softball, and Competitive

Cheer) and that failure to participate in this testing will result in your student athlete’s inability to

participate. I further under- stand that this ImPACT Concussion base line test will be provided at no

cost to the athlete.

Appendix A:

Educational Material for Parents and Students (Content Meets MDCH Requirements)

Sources: Michigan Department of Community Health. CDC and the National Operating Committee on

Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE)

UNDERSTANDING CONCUSSION

Some Common Symptoms

• Headache

• Pressure in the Head

• Nausea/Vomiting Dizziness

• Balance Problems

• Double Vision Blurry Vision

• Sensitive to Light

• Sensitive to Noise

• Sluggishness

• Haziness

• Fogginess

• Grogginess

• Poor Concentration

• Memory Problems

• Confusion

• “Feeling Down”

• Not “Feeling Right”

• Feeling Irritable

• Slow Reaction Time

• Sleep Problems

WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that changes the way the brain normally works. A

concussion is caused by a fall, bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that causes the head and brain

to move quickly back and forth. A concussion can be caused by a shaking, spinning or a sudden

stopping and starting of the head. Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be a mild

bump or blow to the head can be serious. A concussion can happen even if you haven’t been knocked

out.

You can’t see a concussion. Signs and symptoms of concussions can show up right after the injury

or may not appear or be noticed until days or weeks after the injury. If the student reports any

symptoms of a concussion, or if you notice symptoms yourself, seek medical attention right away. A

student who may have had a concussion should not return to play on the day of the injury and until a

health care professional says they are okay to return to play.

IF YOU SUSPECT A CONCUSSION:

1. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION RIGHT AWAY – A health care professional will be able to decide

how serious the concussion is and when it is safe for the student to return to regular activities,

including sports. Don’t hide it, report it. Ignoring symptoms and trying to “tough it out” often

makes it worse.

2. KEEP YOUR STUDENT OUT OF PLAY – Concussions take time to heal. Don’t let the student

return to play the day of injury and until a heath care professional says it’s okay. A student who

returns to play too soon, while the brain is still healing, risks a greater chance of having a

second concussion. Young children and teens are more likely to get a concussion and take

longer to recover than adults. Repeat or second concussions increase the time it takes to

recover and can be very serious. They can cause permanent brain damage, affecting the

student for a lifetime. They can be fatal. It is better to miss one game than the whole season.

3. TELL THE SCHOOL ABOUT ANY PREVIOUS CONCUSSION – Schools should know if a stu-

dent had a previous concussion. A student’s school may not know about a concussion received

in another sport or activity unless you notify them.

SIGNS OBSERVED BY PARENTS:

• Appears dazed or stunned

• Is confused about assignment or position

• Forgets an instruction

• Can’t recall events prior to or after a hit or fall

• Is unsure of game, score, or opponent

• Moves clumsily

• Answers questions slowly

• Loses consciousness (even briefly)

• Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes

CONCUSSION DANGER SIGNS:

In rare cases, a dangerous blood clot may form on the brain in a person with a concussion and crowd

the brain against the skull. A student should receive immediate medical attention if after a bump, blow,

or jolt to the head or body s/he exhibits any of the following danger signs:

• One pupil larger than the other

• Is drowsy or cannot be awakened

• A headache that gets worse

• Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination

• Repeated vomiting or nausea

• Slurred speech

• Convulsions or seizures

• Cannot recognize people/places

• Becomes increasingly confused, restless or agitated

• Has unusual behavior

• Loses consciousness (even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously.)

HOW TO RESPOND TO A REPORT OF A CONCUSSION:

If a student reports one or more symptoms of a concussion after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or

body, s/he should be kept out of athletic play the day of the injury. The student should only return to

play with permission from a health care professional experienced in evaluating for concussion. During

recovery, rest is key. Exercising or activities that involve a lot of concentration (such as studying,

working on the computer, or playing video games) may cause concussion symptoms to reappear or

get worse. Students who return to school after a concussion may need to spend fewer hours at school,

take rests breaks, be given extra help and time, spend less time reading, writing or on a computer. After

a concussion, returning to sports an school is a gradual process that should be monitored by a health

care professional.

Remember: Concussion affects people differently. While most students with a concussion recover

quickly and fully, some will have symptoms that last for days, or even weeks. A more serious

concussion can last for months or longer.

To learn more, go to www.cdc.gov/concussion.

Appendix B:

Dual Sport Form

Dual sporting is something that is to be done with consultation of parents, athlete, coaches and athletic

director. It is only for the rare athlete that is exceptional in 2 sports that take place in the same season.

This is an application form that is to filled out by the student athlete and turned into the athletic office

before the start of their season. The athletic director will determine if dual sport ability will be given or

not once the form is completed.

Student name: ____________________________Grade:___________________

Two sports: 1st Priority ____________________________________

2nd Priority ______________________

1st Priority Sport:

How many years have you played the sport competitively? ____

(AAU, Travel Team, Club or for CPS)

What level is anticipated for this upcoming sports season? ___

(Varsity, JV, Freshman)

Do you wish or plan to play in College? YES NO

2nd Priority Sport

How many years have you played the sport competitively? _____

(AAU, Travel Team, Club or for CPS)

What level is anticipated for this upcoming sports season? _____

(Varsity, JV, Freshman)

Do you wish or plan to play in College? YES NO

Coaches:

Do you predict that this student athlete can place or compete at the District/ Regional level in your

sport whether it is the 1st or 2nd priority sport?

1st priority coach YES NO

2nd priority coach YES NO

Signature from both coaches agreeing to make arrangements and share time with this stu- dent athlete

so they can compete in both sports.

1st priority sport

_____________________________ Signature of coach: _____________________________

2nd priority sport

______________________________ Signature of coach: ____________________________

Parent Signature: ______________________________________ Date _________

Athletic Director Signature: (this signifies that the process is approved)

______________________________________________________Date _________________

If parents or students have any questions about the process please feel free to contact the athletic

department ahead of time.

guizzer@charlottenet.org

517-541-516