Principal's Letter - Francis Parker School

Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Letter from the Head of the Upper School
Fall 2012
Dear Upper School Community,
The fall is a dynamic period for any school community, and this is particularly the case given that
this is the centennial year here at Francis Parker. It is a time to come back to school recharged,
curious and excited about new possibilities. Not only do we encourage you to be diligent and do
the highest quality work that you can, but we trust that you will make thoughtful and meaningful
contributions to the Parker community. It is not enough to watch others take the lead and take
chances; you must ask yourself what can I do to make that positive difference With a nod to
Mohandas Gandhi, you need to “Be the change that you want to see in the world.”
This handbook is the guideline to help students do their best work while making educated choices
and evidencing deep respect for each member of the community. It is incumbent upon each
student that s/he understand and abide by the policies that are articulated. Understanding these
policies will make life in the upper school a productive and successful one.
We all look forward to the 2012-13 school year as being one full of growth, successes, challenges,
and great enthusiasm. As we move into the next century here at Francis Parker, I know that we are
ready and proud to represent the School and honor its history.
Wishing you a wonderful school year,
Paul I. Barsky
Head of the Upper School
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Table of Contents
Quick Reference Sheet ................................................................................................... page 2
STUDENT AGREEMENT
Form to be returned to the Upper School Office ..................................................................... page 3
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES .............................................................................. pages 5-10
Attendance: Absence, Extended Absence ............................................................................... page 5
Late Arrival, Unscheduled Periods, Leaving Campus, Parking .............................................. page 6
Cars, Visitors, Clean Campus ................................................................................................. page 7
Phone Calls, Cell Phones, Medication, Search, Emergency Procedures ................................ page 8
Discipline, Academic Policies, Academic Integrity Policy .................................................... page 9
College Disclosure Policy, Academic Offenses, Cheating, Plagiarism/Copying ................... page 9
Penalties for Academic Offenses ............................................................................................ page 10
BEHAVIORAL POLICIES ................................................................................................ pages 10-17
Substance Abuse…………………………………………………………………………….page 10
Harassment/Bullying Policy ................................................................................................... page 11
Acceptable Use Policy—Computers, Parker System Guidelines ........................................... page 12
School’s Rights and Responsibilities, Enforcement ............................................................... page 13
Dress Code Policy……………………………………………………………………………page 14
Dress Up Days, Major Behavioral Offenses ........................................................................... page 15
Penalties for Major Offenses, Suspensions, Minor Behavioral Offenses ............................... page 16
STUDENT SUPPORT…………………………………………………… ......................... pages 17-20
Advisory Program, Counseling, Learning Center, Tutoring ................................................... page 17
Library, Nicholas Commons, Viterbi Science Gallery, Assemblies, Cafeteria ...................... page 18
Daily Student Bulletin, Quad, Lockers and Backpacks, Senior Privileges ............................. page 19
Freshman Connection, Lifer…………………………………………………………………page 20
CO/EXTRA CURRICULAR .............................................................................................. pages 20-33
Community Service................................................................................................................. page 20
Interim Program, Extra-Curricular Activities, Eligibility ....................................................... page 21
Sportsmanship, Student Activities, ASB Office ..................................................................... page 22
Student Government………………………………………………………………………page 23
ASB Campaign Rule…………………………………………………………………………page 24
The Constitution of the Associated Student Body of Francis Parker School .......................... page 25
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Quick Reference Sheet
Francis Parker School Main Switchboard: 858-569-7900
Linda Vista Campus Upper School Attendance, Direct Line: 858-874-3379
6501 Linda Vista Road Upper School Office, Direct Line: 858-874-3375
San Diego, CA 92111 Upper School Office Fax: 858-569-6989
CEEB-ACT Code: 052843
www.francisparker.org
Head of the Upper School ............................................................................ Paul Barsky
Assistant Head of the Upper School ............................................................ Marc Thiebach
Academic Dean ............................................................................................ Paul Roudebush
Class Dean, 2016 ......................................................................................... Carrie Dilmore
Class Dean, 2015 ......................................................................................... Nancy Anderson
Class Dean, 2014…………………………………………………………...Paul Esch
Class Dean, 2013…………………………………………………………..Michelle Adelman
Dean of College Counseling ........................................................................ Terri Devine
Director of College Counseling ................................................................... Robert Hurley
Associate Director of College Counseling ................................................... Alexandra Santiago
Administrative Assistant to the Head of the Upper School ......................... Diane Bergel
Attendance Secretary ................................................................................... Laura Southworth
College Counseling Assistant/Registrar ...................................................... Pat Powell
School Counselor…………………………………………………………..Dr.Dorene McLaughlin
Director of Community Programs ............................................................... Carol Jensen
Director of Learning Center ......................................................................... Rona Dosick
Director of Admissions ................................................................................ Judy Conner
Athletic Director .......................................................................................... Dan Kuiper
Athletic Administrative Assistant ................................................................ Jean Rose
ASB Advisors ……………………………………………………………..John Morrison and Jill
...................................................................................................................... Duehr
Upper School Department Heads:
English ......................................................................................................... Chris Harrington
Foreign Language ........................................................................................ Alex Gomez
Mathematics ................................................................................................. Paul Esch
Music ............................................................................................................ Jim Witt
Performing Arts ........................................................................................... Gordon Cantiello
Science ......................................................................................................... Susan Moerder
Social Studies ............................................................................................... Tom Crowley
Visual Arts ................................................................................................... Barry Cheskaty
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Student and Parent Agreement
Francis Parker Upper School
2012-2013
In signing this agreement, I acknowledge that I have read the Student and Parent
Handbook and understand and agree to abide by all the policies and procedures
therein governing Francis Parker Upper School, with particular attention paid to the
following policies:
Academic
• Academic Integrity Policy, Page 11
• College Disclosure Policy, Page 11
Behavioral/Citizenship
• Substance Abuse Policy, Pages 12-13
• Harassment/Bullying Policy, Page 13
• Acceptable Use Policy, Pages 14-15
• Dress Code Policy, Pages 16-17
Student Name (print): ______________ ________________ Date: ____________
Last
First
Student Signature: ____________________________________
Grade Level _________
Parent or Guardian Signature:
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Please return the form on the front side of this page.
Thank you.
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POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Attendance/Absence
School begins at 8:00 a.m. Parents must call the upper school office at (858) 874-3379 by 8:10 a.m.
on each day that a student will be absent, late, or leaving school early.
Appointments and other activities should be scheduled during non-school hours when possible,
including: orthodontist, medical, dental, traffic court, driver’s license exam, errands for parents, etc.
Excessive absence does affect academic grades. Off-campus appointments do not excuse students
from quizzes, tests, and projects due on the day of the appointment. A student who arrives late to
school or leaves for an appointment and, as a result, misses a test, quiz, or project that is due on that
day is responsible for making arrangements with the teacher to take the quiz or test, submit the project,
etc. on the same day (e.g., lunch, unscheduled period, after school, etc.). If a student is absent for an
entire day, tests, quizzes, and all other academic requirements must be resolved on the day he or she
returns. Absences or tardiness due to illness or medical appointments and not accompanied by a
doctor’s note (verification notes from dentists and doctors should be presented upon return), or parent
explanation are unexcused. An unexcused absence results in a zero for the day in each class missed.
Excused absences are for illness, religious observances, family emergencies, and a limited number of
college visits. Unexcused absences are those that do not meet the above criteria (i.e. vacations,
concerts).
Truancy and unexcused absences from school, class, or assembly are major violations of the Parker
Discipline Code. (See Major Behavioral Offenses).
Students are not permitted to participate in any extracurricular activities, i.e. athletics, field trips,
competitions, dances, play, etc., if they did not attend a minimum of four class periods during the day
of the event.
Extended Absence
Students are strongly discouraged from taking family trips during the school year. The academic
calendar provides ample time for vacation and college visits. In the event a trip may be educationally
related, or due to a family crisis, student and parent must petition the Assistant Head of the Upper
School for an excused absence. The petition should be made at least two weeks in advance of the
scheduled departure and should include clearly stated plans for academic expectations and recovery
(tests, quizzes, projects, homework, etc.) from every teacher, along with the teacher’s signature. If
the petition is approved, two weeks should allow faculty time to prepare independent study
assignments. Independent study and make-up of classroom work rarely provide an equivalent
educational experience. The expectation is that all academic requirements are accomplished
proactively. Therefore, discretion should be used when considering a petition for an excused absence.
This petition process is also required if a student needs to alter any portion of the final exam week
schedule. Petition forms are available through the upper school office.
Any student accumulating more than ten (10) absences in a course during a trimester may not be
granted credit in that course.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Late Arrival
Students must sign in at the upper school office to receive a pass when arriving late. If a student does
not have a scheduled first period, he or she must sign in on the attendance clipboard in the upper
school office by 8:10 a.m. (seniors with senior privileges by 8:40 a.m.). Each and every
student is allowed a maximum of three excused tardies per trimester. Regardless of the reason, all
additional tardiness will be considered unexcused and will result in detention.
Unexcused tardiness to advisory or class will be addressed in the following manner:
• First and Second offense—Verbal warning from teacher
• Third offense—School may assign a detention
• Fourth offense—School assigned detention, a report to the student’s Advisor, and maybe a
. note home to parents.
• Fifth offense— Loss of one citizenship grade for fifth and each subsequent tardy; also,
detentions, which may increase in length
Unscheduled Periods
Parker is a college preparatory school. The curriculum and schedule are designed to prepare
graduates for the challenges and freedoms of university life. Proper time management is crucial to
success in the academic world. Consequently, the Upper School employs a flexible schedule for
most students. This schedule affords students the opportunity to arrange “unscheduled” time
during the school day. This time may be used for study, homework, tutoring, etc. Students are
encouraged to use this time productively at designated sites, e.g., classrooms, computer lab,
library, Nicholas Commons, Learning Center, etc., throughout the campus.
Leaving Campus
Francis Parker School accepts legal responsibility for students on campus during school hours. To
ensure a safe and secure school, we maintain a “closed” campus. Students may not leave campus
without a pass from the Upper School Office. A pass to leave campus may be issued only with
permission from a parent (or guardian) prior to the student leaving campus. Note: Seniors with
senior privileges, and with parental permission, are allowed to leave campus for lunch and after
their last class of the day.
If the parent prefers to send a note instead of calling the school regarding early dismissal, the note
should be presented at the attendance desk by the student upon arrival to school. When students
leave early, they must check out with the Attendance Secretary, sign out on the attendance
clipboard at the Upper School Office, and receive a pink pass, which is collected by security upon
departure through the main gate. If students return during the academic day, they must check in at
the Upper School Office with the Attendance Secretary, sign in on the clipboard and receive a
pass back to class. Any student who is unscheduled for 8 th period may depart at 2:15 p.m. During
final exam week, students may leave after completing their exams.
Failure to comply with this policy is a serious infraction and may result in suspension or dismissal.
Parking
Juniors and Seniors may drive to school and park on campus. Each student must park between the
white lines that mark a parking space. Parking in fire lanes or No Parking zones is dangerous and
is strictly prohibited. Concerns regarding the parking lot may be addressed to Security at the front
gate. Students will be asked to park off campus on a neighboring street when the lot is full.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Sophomores are discouraged from driving to school for safety reasons and may not park on
campus due to limited parking space.
Cars
Francis Parker School draws students from throughout San Diego County. Upon receiving a
driver’s license, many students begin driving to school. Driving is a privilege, however. Students
who have cars on campus must adhere to the following rules:
• Students may not sit in vehicles or congregate in the parking area before school, during the
school day, or after school. Once parked, students may not move their vehicle until ready to
depart the campus. When students enter and start a vehicle, they must depart immediately
through the nearest gate. Any cruising to pick up other students in a different location or the
pick-up/drop-off zone is prohibited.
• Each student must maintain a safe speed (5 miles per hour maximum) when driving in the
parking lot. Greater speeds might well endanger the safety of those walking in the parking lot.
Exiting the parking lot in an unsafe manner (including exhibition of speed) is considered
dangerous.
• Students must register their car with school security and display a parking permit, clearly
affixed to the lower left corner of the driver’s side windshield.
• While on the Parker campus, students may not play music in their cars at such a level that
anyone outside the car can hear the music.
• Handicapped and visitor parking spaces are reserved for those with legitimate need.
• The school reserves a section of the parking lot for seniors and faculty only.
• Students may not drive through the employee lot or through the fire lane to the Field House.
• Students may not ride skateboards, bicycles or scooters in the parking lot or on the campus.
Any violation of these rules will result in detention, suspension and /or possible loss of driving
privileges.
• Students may not park in the San Diego County Office of Education or Bahai’i lots at any time.
These are private property, and they reserve the right to ticket and tow cars without prior consent.
Visitors
The School does not allow visitors on campus except through the permission of the Upper School
Admissions Office or the Assistant Head of the Upper School. Non-students or students from
other schools may not enter the campus without prior approval. The following conditions will
prevail:
• The visitor must not be truant from his or her own school.
• The visitor must be escorted at all times by a host student and have checked in with the Upper
School office.
• The visit must be arranged by the parent/guardian through the office of the Director of
Admission, or the Assistant Head of the Upper School, at least 24 hours in advance.
• The visitor, regardless of age, must follow Parker student guidelines and parameters and the
Parker dress code to the degree possible.
Clean Campus
In order to keep the campus litter-free, please follow these guidelines:
• Deposit trash in trash receptacles.
• Deposit recyclable items in recycling receptacles.
• Do not bring food into the Nicholas Commons, Viterbi science gallery, library, or Crivello Hall.
• Students are responsible both individually and for all in their group.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
• Each of us bears a personal responsibility for our environment.
• Be environmentally aware.
• Pets are not allowed on campus.
Phone Calls—Cell Phones and Electronic Devices
Only phone calls that are true emergencies may be made from the upper school office. Using
office phones is a privilege; a businesslike atmosphere must prevail. Calls must be made quickly
and quietly. Cell phones, text messaging, and other electronic devices may not be used in
classrooms without permission from the teacher. Smart phones may not be used to send abusive,
harassing, or suggestive messages or photos to anyone.
Medication
Prescription & Non-prescription:
Students may not administer or carry any medications while on campus. Students requiring
medication during the school day must have:
• A signed permission slip from a physician indicating drug, dosage and administration time
• A signed permission slip from the parent or guardian indicating drug, dosage and administration
time
No medication will be dispensed without parent permission. In addition to prescription
medications, this policy includes aspirin, Tylenol, and other over-the-counter medications.
Performance Enhancing Supplements:
Francis Parker School does not advocate or endorse the use of performance enhancing
supplements by its students.
Search
Francis Parker School reserves the right to examine and/or search all student possessions when,
in the judgment of School officials, there is cause to believe that the student may be in
possession of alcohol, drugs, weapons, or any other materials that may be disruptive to campus
climate.
Emergency Procedures
Fire Drill:
Sound: Intermittent, traditional school bells, evacuate the premises.
Earthquake:
Sound: Intercom throughout upper and middle school will announce earthquake procedures
• duck and cover
• release and evacuate to field
Lockdown:
The intercom throughout the upper and middle school will announce lockdown procedures.
Students must immediately enter a classroom or office away from danger or exit the campus away
from danger upon hearing the announcement. School “lock down” drills (sometimes
unannounced) are used to additionally clarify any special circumstances.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Discipline at Francis Parker School
Attendance at Francis Parker School is a privilege; attendance is not a right.
Honor is complete and confirmed personal integrity. The academic world demands honor of its
inhabitants; it expects good citizenship. All students start with honor, and they should make every
effort to preserve it. Breaches of academic honor and good citizenship will be treated seriously.
The goal of the discipline system at Francis Parker School is self-discipline. A community of
scholars should not be dependent on external discipline to function effectively. It is neither
feasible nor desirable for the School to constantly monitor behavior. Good judgment, commonly
accepted values, and a sense of conscience provide a moral compass when choosing between good
and bad, right and wrong. Parker students do the right thing.
Discipline issues and associated policies are categorized into either academic or behavioral.
ACADEMIC POLICIES
Academic Integrity Policy
Academic integrity is a priority at Francis Parker School. Cheating in any form, whether on tests,
through plagiarism, copying, or otherwise, is a breach of ethical behavior and subject to serious
disciplinary consequences, up to and including expulsion.
College Disclosure Policy
Disclosure of Academic and Disciplinary Records to colleges and other schools
The School’s policy regarding disclosure of disciplinary records in grades 9-12 is that we will
notify colleges or schools that request such information of infractions resulting in suspension or
dismissal from the School. We do not report academic probation to the colleges, because those
are internal measures to assist students in improving their performance. That performance is
reflected on their transcripts.
If a student’s academic or disciplinary standing changes substantially at any time during the senior
year, we will notify the college and scholarship agencies. We will also counsel students to
provide colleges with further information, any extenuating circumstances, and the effects of the
action upon them. If a student withdraws from Parker to avoid disciplinary action, we reserve the
right to report the infraction to the colleges.
Academic Offenses
All issues regarding academic dishonesty, including cheating, plagiarism, and/or copying are
considered major offenses. Students responsible for any of these offenses will have their records
monitored throughout their entire enrollment period at Francis Parker School.
Cheating
Cheating is a violation of the student’s and the School’s integrity. It is inappropriate for a student
to gain an advantage by unfair or dishonest means. If a student is unclear about the academic
expectation or proper methodology, the student must seek additional guidance from the instructor.
Plagiarism/ Copying
In its broadest sense, plagiarism occurs when one person presents as his or her own work the
words or ideas of another. Any form of plagiarism is an act of academic dishonesty. It is the
student’s responsibility to know and to avoid the following forms of plagiarism:
• To copy any part of an essay or story from a book, newspaper, magazine, or the Internet without
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
crediting the author is plagiarism.
• To copy another student’s academic accomplishment, homework, research, tests, or quizzes is
plagiarism. Additionally, a student will be considered academically dishonest for allowing or
providing material for others to present as their own.
• To use a paragraph, sentence, phrase, or materials from another writer’s/artist’s work without
giving proper credit is plagiarism.
• To quote the words of another person without using quotation marks and without giving proper
credit is plagiarism.
• To incorporate another person’s unique idea into a paper without giving proper credit is
plagiarism.
• Quotes should be used rarely and should only be used when there is no way the information
could be put into your own words.
• To paraphrase means putting the information completely in your own words. The changing of a
few words, or any resemblance to “cut and paste” text is considered plagiarism.
• Each student has the responsibility to clearly understand to what degree tutoring, peer
assistance, team and group work and/or collaboration may be used for every assignment.
• Students should be aware that the use of Cliff’s Notes/Sparks Notes, or any other form of
reconstituted literature, can lead to plagiarism. We strongly discourage students from relying on
such materials. The gains are, at best, near-term and the potential dangers long-term.
Penalties for Academic Offenses
First offense:
• Zero on exam (to include trimester exams), test, quiz, project, homework or assignment.
• Conference with the Assistant Head of the Upper School
• Notification to parents and Advisor with a copy in the student’s disciplinary file and database
until the student leaves Francis Parker School
• Detention, suspension, or expulsion, dependent upon the severity of offense
• Additional measures may be instituted as determined by School administrators.
Second offense: All of the above plus:
• Possible removal from co/extracurricular activities and/or loss of privileges
• Possible failure of the course
• A meeting to include student, parents, advisor and school administrator may be required.
Third offense: Absent extraordinarily compelling circumstances, the student will be expelled.
BEHAVIORAL POLICIES
Substance Abuse Policy
Francis Parker School takes a zero tolerance approach to substance abuse. Any student found to
be possessing, using, or under the influence of drugs, including alcohol, at School or at any
School-sponsored event will be suspended or expelled. Students exhibiting behavior consistent
with someone under the influence of drugs or alcohol at any Parker related activity may be asked
to submit to testing. Any student found to be possessing drugs or alcohol for the purpose of
furnishing or selling to others will be expelled.
First time violators of the Substance Abuse Policy will, at a minimum, be subject to the following
consequences:
• One week suspension from School and all School-related activities. The suspension will be
noted on the student's record and subject to the College Disclosure Policy.
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• Removal from all extra-curricular activities for a three-month period (see Ethics in Sports policy
for violation of CIF rules and regulations), effective with the beginning of the suspension.
Seniors who violate the policy during the third trimester of the year will be barred from
participating in all school-related activities for the remainder of the year, including the
Commencement ceremony and other senior class events. In addition, colleges will be notified of
the incident.
• Meeting with the Head and Assistant Head of the Upper School, parents and student.
• Mandatory alcohol/drug counseling for a period to be recommended by the School
• Mandatory breathalyzer testing (if alcohol related) of the student at all dances for a period of up
to one year after the violation.
• Signed understanding by the parents and students acknowledging that a second violation of the
School's Substance Abuse Policy will result in automatic expulsion, without recourse or
appeal.
Harassment/Bullying Policy
It is essential to the well-being of all community members that they be treated with due respect for
their rights, individuality, and personal dignity. Courteous, tolerant, and respectful behaviors
and attitudes support the School’s goals for student growth. Therefore, it is the School’s policy to
prohibit harassment of any kind, including harassment based on gender, race, color, religion,
national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or of a sexual nature. All forms of harassment in
cyberspace are unacceptable and will be subject to disciplinary action. Cyberbullying includes, but
is not limited to, e-mails, texts, pictures, Facebook postings and blogs.
Sexual harassment refers to behavior that is not welcome, personally offensive, or undermines or
weakens morale. It does not refer to occasional compliments or other generally acceptable social
behavior. Sexual harassment includes pressure for sexual activity, demands for sexual favors
accompanied by implied or overt promises or favors, unwanted physical contact such as hugging,
patting, pinching, or constant brushing against another’s body, and offensive, unwarranted sexoriented
verbal jokes or abuse.
By definition, harassment at Parker includes any unwelcome verbal, physical, visual, or electronic
conduct, that has the purpose or effect of creating or contributing to an intimidating, hostile, or
offensive environment or that unreasonably interferes with the recipient’s educational progress or
personal security.
It is the right of any person who believes that his or her rights have been infringed upon to protest
such infringement in order that the offending action may be dealt with appropriately.
Any student who is subject to or observes harassment should directly inform the person engaging
in the offensive behavior that it is unwelcome and must stop. A student who seeks to complain of
harassment to School authorities should address the complaint directly to the Assistant Head of
the Upper School.
Behavior constituting harassment is subject to major disciplinary action. Because false
accusations of harassment can have damaging effects on innocent individuals, such conduct is also
subject to major disciplinary action.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Acceptable Use Policy—Computers
The Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) outlines the proper use of Francis Parker School’s technology
systems and serves as a contract between student and parent/guardian and the School.
Francis Parker School’s computer systems, equipment, and all user accounts are the property of
the School. The computer system is intended for the exclusive use of its registered users for
educational purposes. These users are responsible for their passwords and accounts. Parker
administration reserves the right to monitor and access information on the system, including users’
accounts and will remove information which is unlawful, obscene, pornographic, abusive,
harassing, bullying or otherwise in violation of this agreement. Inappropriate use of the
technology system may result in loss of network privileges, account closure, disciplinary action,
and/or referral to legal authorities.
Francis Parker School is not responsible for the loss of data sustained when using the system. The
School specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained
electronically.
User Account
It is expected that users of Francis Parker School’s computer system will:
1. Communicate electronically with Parker teachers and students using school gmail accounts
2. Keep accounts and passwords private
3. Follow proper “netiquette”
a. Be polite, use appropriate language, and refrain from transmitting obscene material
b. Do not reveal personal information
c. Do not modify or destroy data of another user
d. Do not vandalize school computers, reconfigure the computer system, change
computer preferences or settings, or maliciously use computer resources
Parker Internal Network
It is expected that users of Francis Parker School’s computer system will:
1. Obtain approval from a teacher or administrator before connecting a personal computer or
other electronic device to the network (memory sticks are OK).
2. Refrain from using the School’s computer system:
a. To gain unauthorized access to computers, network equipment or firewall systems
b. For commercial purposes
c. To violate U.S. or state laws, transmit threatening material, spread computer
viruses, participate in software piracy, gamble, violate copy laws, or participate in
the sale or purchase of drugs or alcohol
d. To stream video (e.g., YouTube or Hulu) or music unless approved by a teacher for
use within an educational context
e. To play computer games and simulations unless approved by a teacher
f. To download and/or install software applications
g. To cyberbully anyone; i.e., use information and communication technologies (e.g.,
email, cell phone, text or instant messaging, defamatory personal websites) in a
hostile manner intended to harm another person
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
h. To send “chain letters”, broadcast messages (email blasts) to lists or individuals, or
subscribe to listservs or newsgroups without teacher permission
i. To intercept, read, delete, copy or alter another person’s email
3. Keep attachments with email to a reasonable size and format to accommodate the
recipient’s system.
Public Wireless Network
Access to a public wireless network may be available to students, parents, or other visitors to the
campuses. The use of this public wireless network obligates the user to abide by the same rules
and procedures outlined in the Parker internal network and other principles of the AUP. Because
this public wireless network is accessed using personal, rather than Parker, computers or other
network devices, there is no explicit or implied guarantee of connectivity, support, or liability for
its use.
School Rights and Responsibilities
The School reserves the right to:
1. Remotely monitor and/or control all computers at any time
2. Monitor all activity on the Internet and block selected sites
3. Access any information stored on the server
4. Limit or deny access to technology to any individual
All adults (faculty/staff/admin) have the authority to supervise and manage student use of
technology. The School will do its best to monitor student use of technology on campus, but
responsibility for using technology appropriately and according to the School’s AUP remains with
the student.
Francis Parker School assumes no responsibility for:
●
●
●
●
●
Any financial obligations arising out of unauthorized use of the system
Any cost, liability or damages caused by a user's violation of these guidelines
Any information or materials that are transferred through the network
The reliability of the data connection. Francis Parker School shall not be liable for any loss
or corruption of data resulting while using the network
A student's illegal distribution (pirating) of software
Enforcement of the Policy
Francis Parker School reserves the right to make the final decision regarding whether a student has
violated this Policy, and the appropriate disciplinary action (such as loss of network privileges,
account closure and/or referral to legal authorities). Student discipline may involve actions up to
and including suspension and/or expulsion. Violations of the AUP, which are also violations of
law, may be referred to appropriate local, state or federal law enforcement officials for
prosecution. The School will cooperate fully with the local, state and federal officials in any
related investigation.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Dress Code Policy
Among Parker traditions is a commitment to standards of dress that are appropriate for the school
day in an independent school.
Parker Wear or approved Lands’ End clothing is to be worn every school day while on campus.
Students may wear dress code items from:
• Parker clothing web site: www.landsend.com. (under the “schools” link)
• Sweatshirts, wind-breakers and polo shirts from Parker athletic teams or student
classes/organizations Parker Wear through 2012-13 school year only (other brands are not
acceptable)
Traditional college sweatshirts in neutral or school's official colors will be permitted for one more
year.
NOTE: Sweaters, socks, and tights may be acquired at the discretion of the family from any
source, but must be in solid Parker Wear/Lands’ End polo shirt colors (white, blue, black, or
gray). Plaid jackets and shirts are not permitted.
• Absolutely no oversized or undersized clothing (i.e., no droopy drawers, form-fitted tops or
bottoms). Clothing may not be torn, cut, or ripped.
• Collared Parker Wear/Lands’ End shirt or blouse must be worn at all times
• Shirts must be buttoned across the chest
• Skorts must be properly zipped and fall between the kneecap to comfortably below the
middle of the thigh (no more than 4” above the bent knee)
• Skorts may not be hemmed above the Lancer logo, inner shorts may not be cut out, and shorts
may not be rolled.
• Undergarments or mid-section skin must not be visible at any time, including while
stretching or bending
• Undershirts with logos or camping style underwear are not allowed
• Undershirts must be solid color
• T-shirts in Parker Wear polo shirt color and must not be visible below any untucked shirt
• Sweats (including underneath proper school attire) are not permitted.
• Beach, flip-flop, or sandals, spiked heels, knee-high boots, and slippers are not permitted.
Shoes must be enclosed at the heel.
• Full length nylons must be solid color (no fish-net, lace, or extreme color)
• Hats must be Parker baseball-style hats or ivy caps only, worn brim forward and only
outdoors, as should sweatshirt hoods. Snow beanies, berets, visors, tennis hats, scarves, netting,
etc., are not permitted.
• Facial hair, any extreme hair style (i.e. mohawks), spiked hair, or any hair of unnatural
color is not permitted
• No distracting or dangerous jewelry; no visible body piercing, only girls may wear earrings
• No visible tattoos
• Wallet chains and extreme or excessive jewelry are not allowed
The purpose of prescribed dress is to free the faculty and students to address the serious business
of teaching and learning. The School reserves the right to interpret the appropriateness of student
dress and grooming as needed, even if such is not delineated specifically in the above regulations.
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Students found to be in violation of the Dress Code will be required to obtain appropriate attire
before being admitted to class. This may result in a loss of academic time and zeros for any work
missed: quizzes, tests, etc.
Consequences for Dress Code violations are:
First offense: Verbal warning
Second offense: Purchase of proper clothing and work detail or early morning detention.
Third offense: Purchase of proper clothing and two work details or early morning detentions.
Fourth offense: Purchase of proper clothing and three hour Saturday detention
Future offenses: Same as fourth offense with possible removal from extracurricular activities,
suspension, etc.
Students unable to attend school in the prescribed dress code detailed above for legitimate reasons
must present a signed note from their parent prior to the start of their first class. Labels may be
checked as necessary.
The campus dress policy is in effect every day when school is in session in all areas of campus.
On other Parker occasions—such as when students are attending evening and weekend athletic
contests, evening plays, etc.—Parker Wear need not be worn, unless the School states otherwise in
advance. However, at all times on campus or at any Parker activity, students are expected to be
appropriately attired for the particular event. When the Parker dress code is not in effect, the
School reserves the prerogative of determining the acceptability of a student’s appearance at a
Parker function.
Dress Up Days
On days designated as Dress Up Days, boys must wear a collared dress shirt, tie, slacks and dress
shoes, while girls must wear a dress or blouse with slacks or skirt of modest length and no
revealing midriff.
Major Behavioral Offenses
Parker students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the highest ideals
of Francis Parker School. There are certain offenses which, in all good conscience, merit a firm
response. Students responsible for the following offenses may be suspended and subject to
immediate expulsion:
• Any breach of the Substance Abuse Policy
• Any breach of the Acceptable Use Policy
• Any breach of the Harassment Policy
• The use and/or possession of tobacco at School or at School-sponsored functions
• Possession of weapons, including simulations; e.g. airguns, paintball guns, water guns,
slingshots, lighters, matches, explosives, fireworks, etc.
• Creating projectiles of any kind which could endanger others (water balloons, balls, etc.)
• Stealing
• Misrepresentation, lying, or forging an official document or signature
• Destruction or defacing of School or personal property
• Verbal or physical abuse of faculty, staff, students, or others on or off campus
• Threats of violence of any nature, implied or in jest, directed to any person(s) or place
• Truancy, cutting class or assembly, leaving school early, or arriving late without permission
• Unacceptable behavior at co/extra curricular events on or off campus
• Failure to resolve disciplinary consequences in a timely manner
• Repeated minor offenses
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Penalties for Major Behavioral Offenses
One or more of the following may result, depending upon the circumstances:
First offense
• Conference with the Assistant Head of the Upper School
• Notification to parents with a copy in student’s disciplinary file
• Detention;
• Removal from co/extracurricular activities;
• Loss of privileges;
• May be reported to colleges;
• Suspension, and/or expulsion from the School
Second offense
• Will be reported to colleges;
• Suspension from School (the number of days to be at the discretion of the School
Administration), or expulsion from the School
Third offense
• Conference with School Administration, parents and student to implement expulsion from the
School
Suspensions
Any student who is suspended or expelled may not participate in any School function,
extracurricular events, or athletics (even as an observer), and may not return to the campus for any
reason until being readmitted. Students suspended from school will be permitted to turn in work
and take make-up tests on the day they return to school. The work will be graded. Whatever
score/grade is earned can be reduced by 30% (e.g., 100% on a test minus 30% = score of 70%).
Minor Behavioral Offenses
There are a set of offenses which, while not in and of themselves serious enough to warrant
dismissal, are not appropriate to Parker. In most cases, such offenses will result in reprimands
(e.g., detention, work detail, Saturday School, loss of privileges, report in disciplinary file, etc.)
after referral to the Class Deans or Assistant Head of the Upper School. An accumulation of such
offenses, however, may lead to more serious penalties including the loss of privilege, ineligibility
for co/extra-curricular
activities and athletics, possibility of suspension or dismissal:
• Excessive tardies
• Dress code infractions
• Disruption of classes
• Misuse of car during school hours
• Loitering in any area of the parking lot at any time
• Failure to follow the sign in/sign out procedure, including unscheduled first period sign-in
• Use of obscene language or gesture
• Failure to follow library and cafeteria rules
• Rudeness in class, gym, library, cafeteria, assemblies, etc.
• Unauthorized use of smart or cell phones during class
• Public display of affection
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
All discipline issues must be resolved prior to the awarding of a diploma. Excessive detentions
will warrant a school-enforced withdrawal from all extracurricular activities until the issues have
been resolved.
STUDENT SUPPORT
Advisory Program
For the Academic Advising Program, please see the Academic Advising Section of the Curriculum Guide.
The purpose of the advisory program is to help students examine educational and personal goals
related to special interests, strengths, and weaknesses. While it is true that the responsibility for
achieving excellence ultimately falls in the hands of the student, advisors provide guidance and
support. Class deans and college counselors will be available for academic support and issues
concerning student well-being. Students’ advisors are responsible for monitoring and addressing
academic, emotional, and social issues on a daily basis as the student progresses through the
school year.
Advisors will:
• Monitor the academic progress of each advisee
• Provide each student with an adult advocate who knows him or her personally and who will
help him or her examine options and make responsible choices
• Establish a system of in-school communication wherein all professionals concerned with a
student have systematic and consistent information to help the student succeed academically
Counseling
When we speak of a healthy school, we refer to a campus where students are fully encouraged and
supported in their academic, social and emotional growth. Francis Parker School is committed to
this concept of a healthy education. Many of the issues, concerns, and problems
facing students today are not new. Divorce, a death in the family, alcohol abuse, pregnancy,
sexual abuse, etc., were also problems for past generations. This era, however, does present
teenagers with new challenges (e.g., AIDS, drug abuse, eating disorders, academic stress) Francis
Parker School is committed to providing guidance and tools to help students address whatever
pressures they may face. The counseling program in the Upper School provides for the services of
a Marriage, Family Therapist (MFT), an advisor system, and class deans. The foundation of
counseling at Parker is confidentiality and trust. Every student has a right to expect this.
Counseling at Parker is three pronged: it is designed to connect and support students, faculty, and
families.
Parker Learning Center
The Parker Learning Center, located in the Student Services Building, provides a variety of
services for Parker students. Parents, students, and teachers are invited to consult with the
Learning Center for help with improving study skills, test-taking, and specific subject tutoring. At
any time ongoing programs from a staff of teachers, tutors, and Educational Therapists are
available on a fee for service basis. For more information, contact Rona Dosick, Director of the
Learning Center (ext. 4154).
Tutoring
Teachers are available in their rooms for tutoring every morning from 7:30 a.m. to
8:00 a.m., upon request. Tutoring may also be arranged during the school day. Teachers will
remain on campus from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.; a student wishing to meet with a teacher during
that time should make arrangements directly with the teacher.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
A student’s academic well-being is as much his or her responsibility as it is the School’s. If a
student is having trouble with a course, he or she must seek extra help promptly.
Library
The library is a learning center. It is a place for research and quiet study. Students are expected to
adhere to these guidelines. Study rooms are available for group study sessions through the
librarians.
Library Services
Students may come to the library at any time during normal hours of operation to:
• Check-out material/books (two-week check-out time limit)
• Use reference sources (checked-out at end of day and returned before school the next day;
weekend check-out returned on Monday)
• Access on-line computer services (research purposes only)
• Obtain information/material from other libraries
Books overdue for more than one week will result in the student’s loss of library privileges until
the materials are returned. Reference material overdue two or more days will result in the
student’s loss of library privileges until the material is returned. Students are responsible for the
replacement cost of lost material. In the case of reference material, this cost may be significant.
Rules of Behavior
The Library is an area designated for research and study. Students using this facility are expected
to behave in a manner that respects the rights of fellow students and the staff. The following rules
apply:
• Talking should be kept to a minimum when requesting help with material
• Individual and quiet study may take place in the Library
• No food or drink allowed. Dispose of trash and return materials appropriately
• Computers are to be used only for research
Nicholas Commons/Viterbi Science Gallery
These areas are intended to be quiet, academic areas for Upper School students to study, complete
small group work or conduct peer tutoring. They are also used to exhibit student artwork,
sponsored pieces of art, and educational exhibits. The areas may need to be vacated occasionally
for class meetings and school wide exhibits.
Assemblies
Assemblies are categorized as either educational or spirit. Assemblies provide an opportunity for
the Upper School community to gather for a common purpose. Attention, courtesy, and active
participation are expected at Parker assemblies. Attendance is mandatory. Use of electronic
devices during assemblies is strictly prohibited.
Cafeteria
Francis Parker School enjoys an outstanding lunch program. A committee of staff, community
health professionals, and parents meets regularly to ensure nutritious and appealing meals. Our
cafeteria staff is hardworking and dedicated to serving you in a cheerful and efficient manner. To
promote the efficiency of the cafeteria, students are expected to observe the following rules:
• Exhibit patience and good dining manners
• Upper School students should use the cafeteria during the 11:20 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. lunch hour
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
• Students may not cut in line. At all times, common courtesy should be observed
• After eating, each student should clear the table of any dishes, utensils, glasses, and trash he or
she or any member of the group has used while eating or socializing
• All cafeteria items must remain in the cafeteria area and not be taken to other campus areas
• Students should be respectful of and helpful to the cafeteria staff at all times
• Senior privilege allows seniors to use the left lunch line from 11:20 a.m. –11:30 a.m.
exclusively (whenever possible)
Upper School Daily Bulletin
Students are required to read or listen to the bulletin each and every day, even if unscheduled
during first period. Copies of the bulletin are posted on bulletin boards around campus and at the
entry to the upper school office, and in their First Class account. The daily bulletin is the primary
link to all aspects of School life.
Quad (South Point)
The Quad is located at the center of the upper school classroom area and serves as a central
meeting place during lunch periods and breaks. Additionally, the Quad is used for quiet study for
students during their unscheduled periods and should not be used for noisy lawn activities or
games, during class time.
Lockers and Backpacks
Each student is allowed to choose a locker on the Upper School campus to store excess
books and personal belongings. Students must register their locker through the US Office.
Wallets, phones, jewelry, money, or any other valuables must be locked up to be secure. Large
items may be stored in the upper school office, as necessary. Backpacks should not be considered
a safe location to store personal items if left unmonitored. Additionally, for safety
purposes, backpacks must not be left in the parking lot or by the Field House before, during, or
after school. Students also need to use lockers provided in the Field House in order to properly
secure valuables and possessions. The School does not accept responsibility for any items left
unattended.
Senior Privilege List:
(Senior must resolve all outstanding detentions before enjoying the following) :
• Off Campus Lunch: 11:20-12:15 only. Waiver signed/Parker ID card required. Retain 11 th
grade ID Card through October. Must not interfere with any other function.
• Late Monday arrival/Early daily departure: Waiver signed/Parker ID card required
Must not interfere with any other function. The student must arrive by 8:40 a.m. to sign-in.
The student may depart after last scheduled class (no earlier than 12:15).
• Pre-approved class t-shirt may be worn on Fridays:
T-shirt may also be worn on class dinner dates. It DOES NOT include "other" red shirts.
• Clean jeans, pants, shorts, or skirts may be worn in conjunction with the class shirt on Fridays.
Alternate footwear ok: Hemmed/no holes/no oversize no short skirts/shorts or sweats.
• Senior Parking: Parking area reserved for seniors. (exception: specific school functions) Note
use of late arrival often requires off-campus parking.
• Senior Portions: A senior may ask for seconds with the first serving in the lunch line.
• Senior lunch line: Separate line for seniors and faculty only for the first serving in the lunch line.
(whenever possible)
• Senior Sign-in sheet in upper school office: Unscheduled first period privilege.
• Senior attire for AP exams: Relaxed dress.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Freshman Connection
Freshman Connection is coordinated by the Associated Student Body (ASB) vice president and
senior volunteers in conjunction with a Freshman Connection advisor and the ASB advisor. Its
purpose is to ease the transition for incoming freshmen into the upper school. Freshman
Connection conducts events to allow ninth-graders to become better acquainted with the upper
school, find answers to their questions, participate in fun, bonding activities and making them feel
welcome on our campus.
Lifer
The honorific title of “Lifer” is awarded to any senior who entered Parker in Pre-K, kindergarten,
or first grade—and has attended the School for at least eleven complete academic years.
CO/EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Community Service
One of the fundamental values of American society is that individual citizens care about and help
others, and serve their community. Over 150 years ago, Alexis de Tocqueville wrote in
Democracy in America about this commitment of Americans to join together and help each other.
Colonel Francis W. Parker believed that students should learn by doing and be encouraged to
understand and fulfill their responsibilities as citizens of the community and the nation. Today,
this need has never been greater.
Traditionally, schools have served as one of the primary agents for the socialization of American
youth. There have been two major approaches to encouraging community service in America:
• Instruction advocating caring, helping, and service
• Experiential
The Upper School combines both approaches in its Community Service Program. Standards and
values of good citizenship are reinforced by a program that allows Parker students to “reach
beyond themselves.”
Program Description
All Parker students are required to complete community service hours each year. Ninth graders
are required to complete ten hours; tenth, eleventh, and twelfth graders are required to complete
twenty hours annually. All hours must be completed off-campus in direct service to those in need
in programs and be pre-approved by the Director of Community Programs. The Community
Service Office provides information on projects and programs through the Parker website and the
US daily bulletin. To guarantee credit a Project Proposal must be submitted to and approved by
the Director of Community Programs prior to beginning the project for projects not listed on the
approved list.
The following timeline will be in effect for the completion of hours during the 2010-2011 school
year:
JANUARY 25, 2013: All 20 hours for 12 th graders must be completed.
APRIL 10, 2013: All hours due for all underclassmen. Please note that individual deadlines
indicate the date by which all hours must be completed AND all forms handed in to and approved
by the Director of Community Programs.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Community Service is a graduation requirement for Francis Parker School. Ample time is
provided during the year to complete the required number of hours. Students may also complete
their service during the summer prior to each year, upon pre-approval by the Director of
Community Programs. Co and Extra-curricular activities, sports, and other school privileges may
be suspended until the required hours have been met by the deadlines mentioned above. In
addition, any student failing to satisfy the requirement will have a hold placed on the grades or
diploma.
Interim Program
The Francis Parker School Interim Program will inspire students to create and contribute by
exposing them to opportunities for discovery and enrichment unavailable to them in a traditional
curriculum. The program takes advantage of the diverse talents, interests and experiences of our
faculty through a variety of course offerings.
The Interim Program will take place February 11-15, 2013 during regular school hours. Students
will be required to sign up for a course at the end of the first trimester. One week interim trips
will be offered during this time as well. Interim is a four-year graduation requirement.
There are six Global Education trips being offered for the upcoming school year: China,
Colombia, India, the Philippines, South Africa, Turkey, and Vietnam. These will take place
during the interim and mid-winter break (February 9-23, 2012) and satisfy an interim graduation
requirement.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Extra-curricular activities are school-sponsored events and students are expected to abide by all
pertinent school regulations. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent
with the highest ideals of Francis Parker. While the dress code policy is not in effect after school
hours, students are still expected to dress in an appropriate manner at all extra-curricular activities.
Failure to abide by these rules will result in parental notification of the student being asked to
leave the event and possible further disciplinary action. School dances are held several times a
year. Students may bring one guest to most dances as long as they: submit a completed guest pass
to the Assistant Head of the Upper School three days prior to the event, stay with the guest
throughout the dance, accept responsibility for the actions of their guest, arrive at the dance in a
timely manner, and the guest is currently enrolled in a high school. Exceptions for bringing a
guest who is no longer in high school, but still under the age of 21, may be for Homecoming and
Prom. Students must observe the cut-off time to gain admission to the dance (45 minutes after the
start) and DO NOT enjoy in-out privileges. Students must stay until at least 30 minutes from the
end of the dance. All students in attendance are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate
manner at all times. Respect for fellow attendees, chaperones, the manner of dress, and
appropriate dancing consistent with what is acceptable in an independent school, must be evident
at all times.
Eligibility
All co/extra-curricular activities are subject to the following eligibility policies.
•A student receiving 2 D's, 1 F or 1 U on a trimester grade report will become
ineligible for all extra-curricular activities, effective the Monday after grades are
submitted and lasting until the Monday after grades are submitted for the ensuing
grading period. (Note that eligibility for Fall is determined by grades from the
previous 3 rd trimester.)
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
•A student receiving an Inc. (incomplete) on a trimester grade report will become
ineligible, effective the Monday after grades are submitted and lasting until the
incomplete is resolved.
•A student involved in athletics may continue to practice when ineligible unless
their GPA for the previous grading period was below 2.0. In that case, the student
will be ineligible for competition and practice.
•A student may become temporarily ineligible due to poor citizenship or failure to
meet school requirements. This ineligibility will remain in effect until all issues
have been resolved.
Sportsmanship
Francis Parker School students shall model good sportsmanship; we win with class; we lose with
dignity. The pursuit of victory is important, but should never come at the expense of honor. In
the face of another team’s poor sportsmanship, Parker athletes shall adhere to the accepted
standards of fair play. Win, lose, or tie, Parker athletes shall shake hands with their opponents
following every competition.
All San Diego high schools are subject to the rules and regulations of the San Diego Section of the
California Interscholastic Federation (CIF). (www.cifsds.org)
Student Activities
An integral part of the Upper School experience is participation in extra-curricular activities.
Typically, when adults are asked to reflect on these years, their most significant memories are of
extra-curricular activities— athletics, cheerleading, clubs, dances, theater, and a host of other
activities that contribute to the creative, emotional, physical, and social growth of students. In
recent years, extra-curricular activities have also assumed prominence for another reason.
Increasingly, when examining students’ transcripts for admission, colleges and universities look
for evidence of involvement and leadership in extra-curricular activities. Parker reminds each
Upper School student of the importance of extra-curricular involvement beginning in the 9 th grade
and continuing through to graduation. Participation in extra-curricular activities is a privilege.
Students must be in good standing both academically and behaviorally to be eligible. Guest
attendance must be pre-approved and an event guest pass turned in to the Assistant Head of the
Upper School at least two days prior to an co/extracurricular event. Get involved, get connected,
and make a difference!
Note: If a student misses any coursework due to extra-curricular activity (e.g. athletics, clubs,
field trips, etc.), the student is required to meet with the teacher(s) of the missed class(es) and
make up any material. This may involve meeting during lunch or after school. Many students use
unscheduled periods to accomplish this task.
Associated Student Body (ASB) Office
The ASB office, is the focus of student government at Francis Parker School. The ASB Advisor
maintains an office and is available to respond to issues related to student government. The
Activities Director maintains an office and is available to respond to issues related to student run
activities.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Student Government
Francis Parker School places a premium on responsible student government. One of our major
goals as a school is the development of competent, sensitive, and ethical leaders for the 21 st
century. Since the founding of the school in 1912, good citizenship has been at the core of
Parker’s educational philosophy. The primary function of student government is representation of
the student body. The elected members of the ASB are responsible for this task. At Parker we are
a community. The student voice is an integral part of the decision making process. Students
should feel free to bring any concerns they may have to the ASB. This student council serves as
an advocate through which students may address issues affecting campus climate and the welfare
of the student body. Students may participate in student government through either elected or
appointed positions.
All members of the student body are encouraged to become familiar with the ASB Constitution.
In order to participate in the ASB program at Francis Parker School, students must:
• Be a member in good standing in the community, without any significant conduct issues on their
record
• Maintain a minimum 2.0 academic average and a 2.5 overall GPA
• Attend a mandatory three-day summer retreat prior to the start of the academic year
• Enroll in the student leadership class which meets daily during the academic day
• Be elected or appointed to a position on the cabinet
• Maintain the eligibility requirements listed in this Handbook (Students failing to do so
must drop ASB for the remainder of the school year. This will result in a W on the transcript).
Running for an Elected Position
Students must complete the following tasks:
• The election packet must be filled out and turned in by the announced deadline
• Students running for a class officer position must prepare and deliver a speech to their
classmates
• Students running for an executive council position must prepare and deliver a speech at an allschool
assembly
• Students running for ASB President must have the approval of the ASB Advisor.
• Students running for ASB President or Vice-President positions must take part in Canvassing
Week
• Candidates must deliver speeches to all students in their English classes during Election Week
• Students running for the position of ASB President must take part in a debate at an all-school
assembly
Running for an Appointed Activities Council Position
• The appointed position packet must be filled out and turned in by the announced deadline
• The ASB Advisor, Activities Director, and the newly elected ASB President and Vice President
review the information provided by the candidates and select students to fill the appointed
positions
• Criteria for appointment include resume, writing sample, student leadership experience,
interview, and academic performance
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
Student Council Election Campaign Rules
1. Candidates will be limited to a budget of NO MORE THAN ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS.
This limit includes all expenditures and donations. If there is a suspicion of exceeding this
limit you will be asked to present all receipts.
2. Campaigning of ANY kind is limited to campus. Focus of the candidate’s campaign must
remain on their strengths and attributes and, avoid direct, negative references to their
opponents.
3. POSTER RULES:
-Signs/flyers can be put up beginning at 6:00 a.m. on Monday, March 19, 2012 (You may not
arrive at school until 5:30 a.m.)
-No one may claim wall space prior to the sign being taped up.
-Signs may only be posted on the Cafeteria, on the Upper School windows, and ONLY ONE
SIGN ON EACH OF THE FOLLOWING: the library, the Nicholas Commons Building, and
Viterbi Science Gallery.
-DO NOT tape posters to the wooden, bronze or concrete walls of the Upper School. (We
suggest taping posters on the insides of classrooms to ensure that they stay up).
-Each candidate will be limited to a maximum of 10 big signs, which may not exceed 4’ by 6’
in size.
-Each candidate will be limited to a maximum of 30 flyers, which may not exceed 8.5” by 11”
in size.
-Signs may not cover the signs of any other candidates, everyone deserves equal space.
-Signs must be maintained by candidates at all times.
-Candidates are in charge of the removal of their signs at the end of election week.
-ASB will provide rolls of painter’s tape to each candidate on Monday morning.
-No signs or flyers may be placed or taped to the ground.
-Signs must be tasteful and may not put down other candidates.
4. NO FOOD OR TOYS OF ANY KIND MAY BE HANDED OUT!
Buttons, ribbons and homemade items are allowed. No stickers ! If you are planning on
handing something out to enhance your campaign, you MUST get the item pre-approved by
either ASB Advisor or Vice-President. Failure to do so will constitute immediate
disqualification.
5. Candidates are allowed to have a maximum of 10 people wearing their shirts Monday through
Thursday of Election Week. If you think that something will be questionable during the
election procedure or have any other questions or comments regarding the election procedure,
feel free to contact ASB Vice-President or Advisor prior to using it. Election rules listed
above will be monitored and enforced by a student run election committee under the auspices
of the ASB Vice-President.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
The Constitution of the Student Body of Francis Parker School
All students enrolled in Francis Parker School shall be members of the Student Body. The
governing body of the Student Body shall be known as the Associated Student Body (ASB).
Mission Statement:
In order to establish, improve, and ensure the unification of the student body; uphold the ideas of
knowledge, integrity, and sportsmanship, to build and further our reputation and traditions; and
promote good communication between the students, faculty and administration, we the students
of Francis Parker School do ordain and establish this The Constitution of the Student Body.
Article I: NAME
Section I:
The organization described herein shall be known as the Upper School Associated Student Body
and shall represent the students in all matters assigned. In all matters, the vote and/or decision of
the ASB shall be considered as a recommendation to the Head of the School and/or his or her
designee. The Association will not put any decision or recommendation into effect without the
approval of the Head of the School (designee).
Article II: POSITIONS
Section I: Elected Positions
The Executive Branch
The Executive Branch shall handle official business of the organization at Executive Branch
meetings and at general ASB meetings that also include the Class Officers and Student Activities
Council. The Executive Council shall be made up of the following positions elected on by the
entire student body for a term of one year.
a) President
b) Vice-President
c) Secretary
d) Treasurer
e) Director of Events
f) Communications Director
g) Awareness Director
Class Officers
Class officers shall represent the interests of their respective classes at general ASB meetings.
Class officers shall be elected by their class for a term of one year.
a) Senior Class Representatives
b) Junior Class Representatives
c) Sophomore Class Representatives
d) Freshman Class Representatives
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Section II: Appointed Positions
Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
I. Student Activities Council
The Student Activities Council will be responsible for the activities outlined in Article I, Section
III of the ASB By-Laws. Each year the Appointed Position Committee (reference Article II,
Section II of the ASB By-Laws) will appoint Directors of Student Activities – the number of
which shall not exceed any other branch – to the Student Activities Council.
a) Director(s) of Student Activities
i. Chair of Student Activities Council
Article III: Powers and Rules of Elected and Appointed Positions (The ASB)
a) Each member excluding the president and/or the person conducting the vote has one vote.
b) The President votes only when either:
i. the vote is by ballot, in which case the President votes along with and at the same
time as all other members, or
ii. the President’s vote will change the result of the vote.
c) A majority of the ASB shall constitute a quorum. A quorum is needed at any meeting
during which a vote will be taken.
d) Recommendations of the Executive Branch must be approved by a majority vote of the
members in attendance at any general ASB meeting.
e) If a majority is not obtained, the proposal shall not pass and any existing conditions prior
to the proposal shall remain unchanged.
f) Prior to the vote, a super majority vote can determine whether a majority of the quorum is
needed for a proposal to pass. If a 2/3 majority vote is obtained, voting procedure can be
changed to allow the option with the most votes to pass, regardless of whether a majority is
obtained.
g) The ASB has the power to overturn a vote if 2/3 of the ASB wishes to do so. However, a
vote can only be overturned at the appropriate time which shall occur at the time halfway
between when the vote was taken and when the result of the vote was intended to be
carried out. This excludes voting on official policy, in which special circumstances apply,
outlined in Article III, Line H.
h) The ASB has the power to create and dissolve policies in all matters assigned to them. An
official policy is a set of guidelines put in place to direct ASB procedure in the applicable
situation. All policies must state when they will be put into effect. Once put into effect, all
policies must be followed by the ASB indefinitely. To amend or dissolve a policy, a super
(2/3) majority must be obtained within certain time restrictions specified in each policy.
Please refer to the Policy Handbook for all official ASB policies.
i) The ASB has the power to collect and appropriate money to be used by the ASB.
j) The ASB shall decide upon a budget prior to the start of the school year.
k) The ASB has the power to approve or disapprove all Student Body activities or
concessions.
l) The ASB has the power to create and dissolve non-executive branch positions as it deems
necessary.
m) All members of the ASB are expected to set a positive example for the school in all aspects
of school life.
n) Members represent the interests of their respective organizations as well as the ASB and
shall communicate recommendations and decisions to these organizations.
o) Members must enroll in the ASB class for the entire year of their term.
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p) All members agree to attend retreats and workshops as scheduled.
Article IV: Amending the Constitution
Section I:
a. ASB shall have power to propose and draft amendments to the constitution and to its
bylaws as it sees fit.
b. Any proposed Constitutional or By-Law amendment shall be presented in written form
before the meeting in which it is to be considered.
c. A super majority (2/3) must be obtained for the ASB to ratify a new amendment.
d. Constitutional modifications must be presented to the student body after their ratification
by ASB for public comment and acceptance or rejection.
Article V: Qualifications
Section I: General Qualifications
a) The student must meet the eligibility or requirements as outlined in the “Student
Handbook.”
b) The student must enroll in the student leadership class, which meets five times a week
during the academic year.
c) The student must be elected or appointed to the ASB.
d) Transfer students wishing to join ASB in their first year at Parker may apply for an
appointed position only
Section II. Elected Qualifications
a) The ASB President must be of senior class standing.
b) The ASB Presidential candidates must obtain approval from the ASB advisor(s)
c) The ASB Vice-President must be of senior class standing.
d) All other executive council positions may be of sophomore, junior, or senior class
standing.
e) Executive members and Senior Class Representatives must receive written permission
from the ASB Advisor(s) and the advisor(s) of designated independent school
organization(s) (to be determined on a yearly basis by the Elections Committee and
approved by the ASB) if they wish to hold a leadership position in both organizations.
f) Executive members and Senior Class Representatives must forfeit officer positions in other
independent school organizations as the advisor to the ASB or that organization deems
necessary.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
The By-Laws of the Student Body’s ASB of Francis Parker School
Article I: Job Descriptions
Section I: Executive Branch
a) President
Duties include but not limited to:
- Responsible for selecting students for the Student Activities Council in conjunction with
the Vice-President and the ASB advisor
- Runs meetings and establishes all ASB agendas
- Oversees the planning and procedure of all ASB sponsored events
- Responsible for communicating with administration (including principal, head of school,
ASB advisor, and faculty) through regularly scheduled meetings
- Organizes the ASB orientation(s) and retreat(s)
- Holds Student Body open forums
- Delegates responsibilities to others and oversees their work
- Evaluates ASB members’ goals and performances
- Plans, organizes, and supervises school-wide student government elections in conjunction
with the Vice-President
- Responsible for execution of ASB sponsored breakfast events
- Responsible for coordinating selection and ordering of all ASB apparel (i.e. polo shirts,
sweatshirts)
- Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
b) Vice-President
Duties include but not limited to:
- Responsible for selecting students for the Student Activities Council in conjunction with
the President and the ASB advisor
- Organizes and oversees the Freshman Connection Program in conjunction with Freshman
Class Dean and ASB Advisor.
– Oversees all club sales, bake sales, expenses, etc. in accordance with the Treasurer
– Plans Clubs Council meetings if necessary
- Organizes assemblies
- Opens all high-school assemblies with a pledge and introduction and closes such
assemblies with class dismissal
- Plans, organizes, and supervises school-wide student government elections in conjunction
with the President
- Helps president preside over meetings and forums
- Takes over presidential responsibilities when the president is absent
- Meets regularly with the president, advisor, and administration
- Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
c) Secretary:
Duties include but not limited to:
- Records minutes daily and posts minutes of all meetings weekly
- Takes attendance at all ASB meetings
- Writes all thank you notes
- Assists the ASB President in the planning and execution of Open Forums
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
- Organizes and oversees all faculty & staff appreciation days
- Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
d) Treasurer:
Duties include but not limited to:
- Balances and records all transactions in the checkbook on a regular basis
- Records all incoming and outgoing funds regularly
- Prints out accounts for all ASB officers quarterly or by request
- Serves as a liaison between the Business Office and the ASB
- Keeps budget balanced for subdivisions including classes and clubs and provides a
printout with appropriate frequency or by request
- Approves all money transactions
- Must have enough change ready for all ASB events
- Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
e) Director of Events:
Duties include but not limited to:
- Organizes all Homecoming events including (but not limited) to the announcement,
invitation preparation and ticket sales, spirit week, day-of events, and meets with members
of the Parents Association to coordinate Homecoming-related matters
- Organizes a committee for and oversees the planning of Prom
- Offers assistance to other organizations putting on dances throughout the year
- Organizes and oversees committee to plan Tri-school event (if applicable)
- Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
f) Communications Director:
Duties include but not limited to:
- Responsible for all ASB bulletins, the ASB bulletin board, newsflashes, and other forms of
publicity
- Responsible for submitting all ASB event forms
- Responsible for alerting the media of all major events (i.e. contacting newspapers, T.V.
stations, radio stations)
- Makes all ASB signs
- Maintains a plentiful supply of paper, pens, and ink
- Maintains ASB web page
- Responsible for the publication of the “Outstanding Activities Award”
- Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
g) Awareness Director
Duties include but not limited to:
- Educates the student body on the importance of community service
- Serves as the liaison between ASB and the Francis Parker Community Service Board
- Must be in contact with all community service groups/clubs on campus and offer to assist
them with projects (i.e. Community Service Council, Grant Directory, etc)
- Organizes and delegates school-wide Holiday Giving Program (i.e. Help Just One)
- Organizes awareness assemblies with the Vice President
- Plans Awareness/Diversity programs (i.e. AIDS Awareness week, Black History Month,
school-wide awareness activities, etc.) at least once per trimester
- Plans and oversees the Global Awareness Fair in conjunction with applicable clubs
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
- Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
Section II: Class Officers
a) Senior Class Representatives:
Duties include but not limited to:
- Represent their class and votes on behalf of their class in the ASB
- Works with Head of School to find keynote speaker for graduation
- Organizes the senior kinder buddy events in conjunction with class advisors and
kindergarten teachers
- Organizes all class events
- Decorates for all spirit/holiday activities (Powderpuff, Spirit Rallies, etc.)
- Collects and distributes money from class account with approval of class advisors
- Organizes the design and purchasing of class apparel
- Works with class advisors, class parents in planning grad week
- Meets with class parents and advisors regularly
- Help the Activities Council with the Secret Pal Program for the Senior Class
- Help the Awareness Director with the holiday gift giving program for the Senior Class
- Coordinates participation for/during spirit rallies
- Organize all class Homecoming events
- Coordinates with Class Parents and Class Advisors to organize class dinners (ie. Holiday
Dinner)
- Plans events to encourage class spirit
- Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
b) Junior Class Representatives:
Duties include but not limited to:
- Represent their class and votes on behalf of their class in the ASB
- Run all class meetings
- Take attendance at all class events if necessary
- Decorate for all spirit/holiday activities (Powderpuff, Spirit Rallies, etc.)
- Oversee the class account with approval of class advisors
- Responsible for design and purchase of class t-shirts
- Meet with class advisors regularly to discuss events
- Organize all class Homecoming events
- Coordinate participation for/during spirit rallies
- Help the Activities Council with the Secret Pal Program for the Junior Class
- Help the Awareness Director with the holiday gift giving program for the Junior Class
- Coordinates with Class Parents and Class Advisors to organize class dinners
- Plans events to encourage class spirit
- Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
c) Sophomore Class Representatives:
Duties include but not limited to:
- Represent their class and vote on behalf of their class in the ASB
- Run all class meetings
- Take attendance at all class events if necessary
- Decorate for all spirit/holiday activities (Powderpuff, Spirit Rallies, etc.)
- Oversee the class account with approval of the class advisors
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
- Responsible for design and purchasing of class t-shirts
- Meets with class advisor regularly to discuss events
- Coordinate participation for/during spirit rallies
- Organize all class Homecoming events
- Help the Activities Council with the Secret Pal Program for the Sophomore Class
- Help the Awareness Director with the holiday gift giving program for the Sophomore
Class
- Coordinates with Class Parents and Class Advisors to organize class dinners
- Plans events to encourage class spirit
- Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
d) Freshman Class Representatives:
Duties include but not limited to:
- Represent their class and vote on behalf of their class in the ASB
- Run all class meetings
- Take attendance at all class events if necessary
- Decorate for all spirit/holiday activities (Powderpuff, Spirit Rallies, etc.)
- Oversee the class account with approval of the class advisors
- Responsible for design and purchasing of class t-shirts
- Meets with class advisor regularly to discuss events
- Coordinate participation for/during spirit rallies
- Organize all class Homecoming events
- Help the Activities Council with the Secret Pal Program for the Freshman Class
- Help the Awareness Director with the holiday gift giving program for the Freshman Class
- Coordinates with Class Parents and Class Advisors to organize class dinners
- Plans events to encourage class spirit
- Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
Section III: Student Activities Council (Appointed)
a) Director(s) of Student Activities
Duties include but not limited to:
a. The members of the council are responsible for internally delegating so that all
responsibilities are fulfilled
b. Organizes and plans the back-to-school dance (i.e. luau)
c. Responsible for student recognition in athletics, arts, and other student activities
d. Sponsors ASB activities at athletic events
e. Finds a national anthem singer for all sporting events as needed (excluding Homecoming as
done by Director of Events)
f. Responsible for planning powderpuff in conjunction with the Director of Events
g. Responsible for planning all lunchtime spirit activities
h. Responsible for weekly sales and supplies
i. Organizes shifts, hours, and execution of all concessions
j. Records all ASB-Sponsored events and ASB functions (e.g. orientation dinner, retreat, etc.)
with photographs or video and documents them (e.g. photo album, scrapbook, movie, etc.)
k. Works in conjunction with the Communications Director and provides pictures for the ASB
Bulletin Boards and websites
l. Oversees all audio and/or visual aides for ASB sponsored events (e.g. set up of PA system in
the quad)
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
m. Organizes the school-wide Secret Pal program
n. Communicates with Admissions to coordinate new-student relations (e.g. new-student
orientations and lunches)
o. Must set up, clean up, and attend all ASB sponsored events
i) Chair of Student Activities Council
Duties include but are not limited to:
a. Responsible for regularly communicating with the President on the activities and discussions
taking place within the Student Activities Council.
b. Responsible for regularly communicating with the Activities Director in all matters
pertaining to the Student Activities Council.
c. Responsible for coordinating the delegation of all responsibilities within the Student
Activities Council
d. Serves as a member of the Student Activities Council
Article II: Elections Procedure
Section I: Elected Officers (Regular Election)
A. The President and Vice-President are in charge of organizing and overseeing all election
procedures.
B. Elections for new members and representatives will occur during the third trimester of the
school year.
C. All candidates, in order to campaign, must submit the signed election packet and written
request approved by the administration.
D. All Elected Officers must meet the Elected Qualifications in order to campaign.
E. The Executive Council and Class Representatives of the ASB shall be elected by the
Student Body for a term of one year.
Section II: Appointed Officer Elections
A. These positions are to be selected after the elections have been completed. The Appointed
Positions are determined upon need. The length of the term is one year.
B. The ASB President, Vice-President, President-Elect, Vice-President-Elect, and ASB
Advisor(s) constitute the Appointed Position Committee. However, the ASB President and
Vice-President shall solely act as advising members.
C. All appointed positions will be selected by the Appointed Position Committee by ways and
means of the appointment process.
D. The appointment process is to be decided by the Appointed Position Committee and the
current President and Vice-President (overseeing the entire election process) and to be
completed within one month’s time of the past ASB election.
E. The ASB President- Elect, Vice-President Elect, and ASB Advisor (s) will select one
member of the approved applicants to serve as Chair of Student Activities for a term of
one year.
Section III: Freshman Elections
A. The freshman class officers shall be elected by the members of their class for a term of
one year.
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Upper School Student & Parent Handbook 2012-2013
B. The President, Vice-President, and Middle School Principal organize and oversee the
freshman election procedure with the assistance of any other necessary Middle School
staff.
C. The freshman election should be completed within one month’s time of the past ASB
election.
Section IV: Irregular Elections
Impeachment
1. The Executive Council and its Advisor have the power to impeach any member of
the ASB. Each of the above has one vote.
2. Grounds for impeachment consist of failure to fulfill duties or uphold this, The
Constitution of the Associated Student Body’s ASB of Francis Parker School.
3. Any member or representative subject to impeachment will be given a warning by
the ASB President. The President’s warning will be administered by the Advisor. A
two-week trial period will be issued beginning from that date until the Executive
Council voted for removal.
4. Upon removal, the impeachment must be approved by the Upper School Principal
and the proper actions will thus be taken by the administration (i.e. transcript,
description, etc.)
5. Election to fill vacancy will be determined by the Executive Council, supervised by
the President and Vice-President, and overseen by the Advisor.
Resignation
1. Resignation from the ASB must be presented orally to the entire ASB and in the
form of a formal written document to be given to the Executive Council, the
Advisor, and the Upper School Principal.
2. Any member wishing to resign must give a minimum two-week warning prior to
leaving.
3. The Executive Council and Advisor may approve or disapprove the resignation
after a thorough analysis of the situation and voting.
4. Upon removal, the resignation must be approved by the Upper School Principal
and the proper actions will thus be taken by the administration (i.e. transcript,
description etc.)
5. Election or appointment to fill vacancy will be determined by the Executive
Council, supervised by the President and Vice-President, and overseen by the
Advisor.
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