Student/Parent Handbook & Code of Conduct - Waller ISD - Website

W A L L E R I N D E P E N D E N T S C H O O L D I S T R I C T2012-2013Student/Parent HandbookStudent Code of ConductE N G L I S H

WallerIndependent School District2012—2013 CalendarAugust 201217‐24 .......................….......…………….. Staff Development27 ……………………................................ First Day of SchoolSeptember 20123 ………..........................Student/Staff Holiday‐Labor Day26 …....….....… Student Early Release/Staff DevelopmentOctober 20124 …..……………….....….......……..........…………… End 6 Weeks5 ........................... Student Holiday/Staff Development/........Elementary Parent Conferences/Incl. Weather Day8 ……………….....…………….......………...…….… Begin 6 Weeks31 …….........… Student Early Release/Staff DevelopmentNovember 20129 ……………………….....................………………… End 6 Weeks12 …………………….....…...........………………… Begin 6 Weeks19‐23 …......… Student/Staff Holiday‐Thanksgiving BreakDecember 201221 …..…..……… Student/Staff Early Release/End 6 Weeks24‐31 ……........……… Student/Staff Holiday‐Winter BreakJanuary 20131‐4 ………......………… Student/Staff Holiday‐Winter Break7 ............. Student Holiday/Staff Dev./Incl. Weather Day8 ………….....……… Begin Spring Semester/Begin 6 Weeks21 ……….......… Student/Staff Holiday‐Marn L. King DayFebruary 201313 ............…… Student Early Release/Staff Development18 .....…… Student Holiday/Staff Dev./Incl. Weather Day22 ............................................................... End 6 Weeks25 ............................................................ Begin 6 WeeksMarch 201311‐15 ………….....….… Student/Staff Holiday‐Spring Break29 …….…..............…… Student/Staff Holiday‐Good FridayApril 201319 ….……….....…...................................……… End 6 Weeks22 …….…………….....….......................…….... Begin 6 WeeksMay 201327 ……...…….....…... Student/Staff Holiday‐Memorial DayJune 20135 ............ Student Early Release/Staff Dev./End 6 Weeks6 ................ Staff Development/Inclement Weather Day7 …………….....……............….......….…… Staff Development8 .................................... Waller High School GraduaonJuly 20131‐5 ……………………............….......……….. Waller ISD ClosedLEGENDStudent/Staff HolidayStudent Holiday/Staff DevelopmentStudent Early Release/Staff DevelopmentStudent/Staff Early Release[ ] Begin/End Grading Cycle+ Elementary Parent Conference* Inclement Weather DaysHigh School GraduaonAugust 2012 February 2013S M T W TH F S S M T W TH F S1 2 3 4 1 25 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 912 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 1619 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 * 19 20 21 22 ] 2326 [ 27 28 29 30 31 24 [ 25 26 27 28September 2012 March 2013S M T W TH F S S M T W TH F S1 1 22 3 4 5 6 7 8 3 4 5 6 7 8 99 10 11 12 13 14 15 10 11 12 13 14 15 1616 17 18 19 20 21 22 17 18 19 20 21 22 2323/30 24 25 26 27 28 29 24/31 25 26 27 28 29 30October 2012 April 2013S M T W TH F S S M T W TH F S1 2 3 4 ] 5 +* 6 1 2 3 4 5 67 [ 8 9 10 11 12 13 7 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 20 14 15 16 17 18 19 ] 2021 22 23 24 25 26 27 21 [ 22 23 24 25 26 2728 29 30 31 28 29 30November 2012 May 2013S M T W TH F S S M T W TH F S1 2 3 1 2 3 44 5 6 7 8 9 ] 10 5 6 7 8 9 10 1111 [ 12 13 14 15 16 17 12 13 14 15 16 17 1818 19 20 21 22 23 24 19 20 21 22 23 24 2525 26 27 28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 31December 2012 June 2013S M T W TH F S S M T W TH F S1 12 3 4 5 6 7 8 2 3 4 5 ] 6 * 7 89 10 11 12 13 14 15 9 10 11 12 13 14 1516 17 18 19 20 21 ] 22 16 17 18 19 20 21 2223 24 25 26 27 28 29 23 24 25 26 27 28 2930 31 30January 2013 July 2013S M T W TH F S S M T W TH F S1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 66 7 * [ 8 9 10 11 12 7 8 9 10 11 12 1313 14 15 16 17 18 19 14 15 16 17 18 19 2020 21 22 23 24 25 26 21 22 23 24 25 26 2727 28 29 30 31 28 29 30 31Board Approved: 02/13/12 | Revised: 05/14/12Waller Independent School District | 2214 Waller Street, Waller, Texas 77484 | P:936‐931‐3685 | F:936‐372‐5576 | www.wallerisd.net

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductTable of ContentsStudent Handbook Cover ...................................................................................................... 12012-2013 Calendar ............................................................................................................... 2Table of Contents ................................................................................................................... 3Forms .................................................................................................................................... 8Student/Parent Handbook Acknowledgment Form ................................................................. 8Emergency Medical Treatment Form ....................................................................................... 9Food Allergy Disclosure Form ................................................................................................... 10Field Trip & Consent Permission and Release Form ................................................................. 11Random Student Drug Testing Permission Form (Grades 7-12) .............................................. 12Parent & Student Consent Checklist ........................................................................................ 13Acceptable Use of Electronic Communications Systems ......................................................... 14Student Computer Use Contract Form ..................................................................................... 15Complaint Level One Form ....................................................................................................... 16Our Vision, Philosophy & Mission ................................................................................................ 17History of Waller Schools ............................................................................................................. 18Letter from the Principals ............................................................................................................ 20Board of Trustees, Superintendents, Directors, Coordinators .................................................... 21School Campus Information ......................................................................................................... 22Responsibilities ...................................................................................................................... 23Complaints or Concerns ......................................................................................................... 25Enrollment and Withdrawal ................................................................................................... 26Compact for Learning .............................................................................................................Student Records ....................................................................................................................2829Audio/Video Tape .................................................................................................................... 29Directory and Student Publicity Information ........................................................................... 29Emergency Contact Information .............................................................................................. 29School Records ......................................................................................................................... 30School Records Corrections ...................................................................................................... 30Attendance & Absences ......................................................................................................... 31About Absences ....................................................................................................................... 31Activity Absences (Grades 6 th -12 th ) .......................................................................................... 32Attendance Age Requirement .................................................................................................. 32Attendance for Credit .............................................................................................................. 32Community College Enrollment ............................................................................................... 32Compulsory Attendance Law Violations .................................................................................. 32Early Dismissal for High School Co-op or Other Regular Arrangements .................................. 32Leaving School Early (Grades PreK-5 th ) .................................................................................... 33Leaving School Early (Grades 6 th -12 th ) ...................................................................................... 33Reporting Absences .................................................................................................................. 33Tardy Policy (Grades 6 th -12 th ) ................................................................................................... 33Truancy ..................................................................................................................................... 34Stay in School Program .......................................................................................................... 35Health Matters ...................................................................................................................... 36Bacterial Meningitis ................................................................................................................. 36Page 3 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductClinic ......................................................................................................................................... 37Contagious Diseases ................................................................................................................. 37Diarrhea ................................................................................................................................... 37Fever ........................................................................................................................................ 37Immunizations .......................................................................................................................... 37Medication at School ............................................................................................................... 38General Information .............................................................................................................. 39Bus Transportation & Rules ...................................................................................................... 39Class Interruptions ................................................................................................................... 40Computer/Internet Acceptable Use ......................................................................................... 40Distribution of Literature ......................................................................................................... 40Fees & Fee Waivers .................................................................................................................. 40Food & Drinks ........................................................................................................................... 40Food Service ............................................................................................................................. 41Grooming & Attire (Dress Code) .............................................................................................. 41Guidance & Counseling ............................................................................................................ 42Hall Conduct ............................................................................................................................. 42Internet Resources ................................................................................................................... 43Library (Grades PreK-5 th ) .......................................................................................................... 43Library (Grades 6 th -8 th ) ............................................................................................................. 43Library (Grades 9 th -12 th ) ........................................................................................................... 43Lockers (Grades 9 th -12 th ) .......................................................................................................... 43Lost and Found ......................................................................................................................... 44Money ...................................................................................................................................... 44Motorized Vehicles .................................................................................................................. 44Non-School Fundraising ........................................................................................................... 44Office Hours ............................................................................................................................. 44Overnight Weather-Related Closings ....................................................................................... 44PE Dress/Participation .............................................................................................................. 45Pets/Animals ............................................................................................................................ 45PTO ........................................................................................................................................... 45Public Address (PA) System ...................................................................................................... 45Radios/MP3/CD Players/Music/Cameras/DVD/Video/Recording Devices .............................. 45School Fundraising ................................................................................................................... 45School Safety ............................................................................................................................ 45School Sponsored Field Trips ................................................................................................... 45Student Identification Badges (Grades 9 th -12 th ) ....................................................................... 46Telecommunication Devices .................................................................................................... 46Telephone Messages ................................................................................................................ 46Textbooks ................................................................................................................................. 47Vehicle Loading & Unloading ................................................................................................... 47Verification of Enrollment & Attendance for Driver’s License ................................................. 47Visitors ..................................................................................................................................... 47Volunteers ................................................................................................................................ 48Compliance Statements ......................................................................................................... 49Asbestos Management ............................................................................................................ 49Child Abuse Reporting .............................................................................................................. 49Harassment/Sexual Harassment .............................................................................................. 49Page 4 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductPesticides ................................................................................................................................. 49Physical Activity for Students in Elementary & Middle School ................................................ 49Pledges of Allegiance and a Minute of Silence ......................................................................... 49Prayer ....................................................................................................................................... 49Registered Sex Offenders ......................................................................................................... 49School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) .................................................................................... 50Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act ....................................................................................... 50Statement of Non-Discrimination ............................................................................................ 50Suicide Awareness .................................................................................................................... 50Tobacco Prohibited .................................................................................................................. 51Vending Machines .................................................................................................................... 51Crisis Management ................................................................................................................ 52About Crisis Management Procedures ..................................................................................... 52Campus Evacuation .................................................................................................................. 52Drills: Fire, Severe Weather, Lockdown and Other Emergencies ............................................ 52Fire/Building Evacuation .......................................................................................................... 52Lockdown ................................................................................................................................. 52Shelter in Place ......................................................................................................................... 52Reunification, Child Pickup ....................................................................................................... 53Student Insurance .................................................................................................................. 54Academic Information ........................................................................................................... 55Accreditation ............................................................................................................................ 55Awards (Grades PreK-5 th ) ......................................................................................................... 55Cheating/Plagiarism ................................................................................................................. 55College and University Admissions .......................................................................................... 55College Credit Courses (Dual Credit) ........................................................................................ 56Course Enrollment ................................................................................................................... 56Course Offerings and Descriptions Booklet .............................................................................. 56Course Withdrawals ................................................................................................................. 56Credit by Exam for Advanced Placement (Grades K-8 th ) ..................................................... 56Credit by Exam for Advanced Placement (Grades 9 th -12 th ) ...................................................... 57Daily/Weekly Folder (Grades PreK-5 th ) .................................................................................... 57Exit-Level Exam ........................................................................................................................ 57Final Examination Exemptions ................................................................................................. 57Grade Reporting ....................................................................................................................... 57Grading Guidelines (Grades PreK-5 th ) ...................................................................................... 57Grading Scale ............................................................................................................................ 58Graduation Requirements (Grade 12 th ) ................................................................................... 58Homework ................................................................................................................................ 58Honor Roll (Grades 6 th -8 th ) ....................................................................................................... 59Honor Roll (Grades 9 th -12 th ) ..................................................................................................... 59Late Work ................................................................................................................................. 59Major Assignments .................................................................................................................. 59Make-Up Assignments ............................................................................................................. 59Minimum Course Load (Grades 9 th -12 th ) .................................................................................. 59Parent-Teacher Conferences .................................................................................................... 60PE Substitute Changes (Grades 9 th -12 th ) .................................................................................. 60Promotion (Grades 1 st -8 th ) ....................................................................................................... 60Page 5 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductReport Cards (Grades PreK-5 th ) ................................................................................................ 60Schedule Changes/Dropping Course (Grades 6 th -8 th ) ............................................................... 60Schedule Changes/Dropping Courses (Grades 9 th -12 th ) ........................................................... 60Semester & Final Exams (Grades 9 th -12 th ) ................................................................................ 61Senior Information (Grade 12 th ) ............................................................................................... 61Student Classification (Grades 9 th -12 th ) .................................................................................... 62Student Success Initiative (Grades 5 th & 8 th ) ............................................................................ 62Testing ...................................................................................................................................... 62Transfer of Grades (Grades PreK-5 th ) ....................................................................................... 62Transfer of Grades (Grades 6 th -12 th ) ........................................................................................ 62Tutoring .................................................................................................................................... 63Standardized Testing .............................................................................................................. 64About Standardized Testing ..................................................................................................... 64STAAR – State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (Grades 3 rd - 8 th ) ....................... 65TAKS – Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills .................................................................. 66Special Programs ................................................................................................................... 67About Special Programs ........................................................................................................... 67Bilingual Education (PreK-5 th ) ................................................................................................... 67Dyslexia Program ...................................................................................................................... 67ESL (PreK-5 th ) ............................................................................................................................ 67ESOL (Grades 9 th -12 th ) .............................................................................................................. 67Fee Paid Summer School (Grades 9 th -12 th ) ............................................................................... 67Gifted & Talented Program ...................................................................................................... 67Kindergarten ............................................................................................................................ 67Pre-Kindergarten ...................................................................................................................... 68Special Services ........................................................................................................................ 68Summer Program (Grades PreK-12 th ) ....................................................................................... 69Title Programs .......................................................................................................................... 69Student Drug Testing ............................................................................................................. 70Student Drug Testing Program Rationale ................................................................................. 70Objectives ................................................................................................................................. 70Applicability .............................................................................................................................. 70Student and Parent Consent .................................................................................................... 70Testing Requirements .............................................................................................................. 70Testing Procedures and Protocols ............................................................................................ 70Confidentiality .......................................................................................................................... 71Screening Parameters .............................................................................................................. 71Steroids .................................................................................................................................... 72Withdrawal from Program ....................................................................................................... 72Sanctions – First Offense .......................................................................................................... 72Sanctions – Second Offense ..................................................................................................... 72Sanctions – Third and Subsequent Offenses ............................................................................ 73Miscellaneous .......................................................................................................................... 73Student Code of Conduct ....................................................................................................... 75Overview .................................................................................................................................. 75Level IV Offenses – Most Serious Offenses .............................................................................. 75Level IV Consequences ............................................................................................................. 76Level III Offenses – Serious Offenses ........................................................................................ 76Page 6 of 84

WISD Student/Parent Handbook Acknowledgement Form*** YOU MUST COMPLETE AND RETURN THIS FORM TO YOUR CHILD'S CAMPUS ***Student's Last Name (Print): Student's First Name (Print): Student's Middle Name (Print):Birth Date (mm/dd/yy): Grade: Homeroom Teacher (if applicable):School:Student ID (if known):• I acknowledge that the Waller ISD Student/Parent Handbook & Code of Conduct is availableonline on the District website at www.wallerisd.net and that a limited number of copies havebeen distributed to my child's campus and are available upon parent request.• I understand and consent to the responsibilities outlined in the Waller ISD Student/ParentHandbook/Student Code of Conduct.• I also understand and agree that my child shall be held accountable for the behavior andconsequences outlined in the Handbook at school and school‐sponsored activities, includingschool‐sponsored travel and any school‐related misconduct, regardless of time or location.• I understand that any student who violates the rules in the Handbook shall be subject todisciplinary action.• I am also aware that the use of tobacco products by any individual is prohibited on allDistrict property.Signature of Student (Age 10 or older)DateParent/Guardian's Last Name, First Name, Middle Name (Print)Signature of Parent/GuardianDateWaller Independent School District Page 8 of 84 2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct

WISD Emergency Medical Treatment Form*** YOU MUST COMPLETE AND RETURN THIS FORM TO YOUR STUDENT'S CAMPUS ***I hereby authorize the staff member(s) at Waller ISD to consent to emergency medical treatment for:Student InformationStudent's Last Name (Print): Student's First Name (Print): Student's Middle Name:Birth Date (mm/dd/yy): Grade: Homeroom Teacher:School:Student ID (if known):In the event of a medical emergency at school, the school will first try to contact the child's parents. If the parent cannot bereached and the child needs immediate medical treatment, the form below would be given to the hospital or clinic. The purposeof the Emergency Medical Treatment Form is to obtain medical treatment for your child in the event you cannot be contacted. Iunderstand in granting this authorization that:• My child will be taken to a hospital or clinic nearest to the school or activity he or she is attending so that emergencymedical treatment can be obtained.• School staff members will attempt to contact me before consenting to emergency medical treatment for my child.• I will be responsible for all expenses incurred by virtue of the emergency medical treatment of my child and for thetransportation to the emergency medical treatment facility.• I release staff members and trustees from any and all claims or actions from liabilities for the injuries that occur to mychild as a result of his or her receipt of emergency medical care.• The staff members of Waller ISD, its trustees and agents are not waiving any sovereign or governmental immunity byrequesting the execution of this document.• I understand the provisions of this document and execute it voluntarily.Important Medical InformationAny medical problems: Yes No If yes, list any medical problems your child has which medical personnel needto be aware of in an emergency (examples: asthma, diabetes, heart problems, pregnancy, seizures):List any prescription or non‐prescription medication you child takes daily either at home or school. Obtain a permissionform from the nurse if medication is needed to be given to your child at school.Any severe allergies to insect bites: Yes No Any severe allergies to peanuts: Yes NoFamily Physician:Phone Number:Health Insurance Company Name:Phone Number:Group Number:Policy Number:Parent/Guardian Contact InformationParent/Guardian Last Name (Print): Parent/Guardian First Name (Print): Parent/Guardian Middle Name:Daytime Phone Number: Nighttime Phone Number: Cell Phone Number:Parent/Guardian Signature:Date:Waller Independent School District Page 9 of 84 2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct

WISD Random Student Drug Testing Permission Form (Grades 7‐12)*** YOU MUST COMPLETE AND RETURN THIS FORM TO YOUR CHILD'S CAMPUS ***School: Activity: Grade:Student's Name (Print):Student ID (if known):We, ____________________________ as the parents or guardians of student, ____________________ acknowledge our childparticipates in extracurricular activities at Waller Independent School District and such is required to participate in the MandatoryRandom Drug Testing Program. We also acknowledge that our child will be participating in the Mandatory Random Drug TestingProgram if he/she applies for a parking permit at Waller High School.We understand and agree that participation in extracurricular activities and having a parking permit is a privilege that may bewithdrawn for violations of Waller ISD Policies.Waller Independent School District will be testing for the following drugs: Amphetamines, Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines,Marijuana, Cocaine, Ethanol, Xanax, Methadone, Opiates, Phencyclidine, Propoxyphene, and Steroids. The District shall reserve theright to test for any and all illegal or controlled substances as determined at the discretion of the District.We acknowledge that we have received a copy of the Waller ISD Local Policy on the Mandatory Random Drug Testing Program forWaller ISD extracurricular activities and receipt of a parking permit. We understand and agree that we are bound by all theprovisions in said program as it now exists and may hereafter, be amended. We have read and understand the drug testingprogram as set forth in the policy. We hereby consent and agree to the testing of our child as provided in said program. Weunderstand participation in extracurricular activities and receiving a parking permit at Waller ISD is conditioned upon the voluntaryconsent and participation of the drug testing policy.We grant permission for the Medical Review Officer to contact the student and parents if a drug test is positive. The purpose of thecontact with the Medical Review Officer is to find out if there is a potential reason that the Medical Review Officer should determinethe positive test to be negative. We are aware that the vendor/MRO will contact us in reference to a positive test.In consideration of the benefits afforded our child and us from this activity, we hereby grant permission for our child to participate inthis program. We further authorize the officers, employees, and agents of the lab WISD chooses to use to communicate our child’sdrug/alcohol test results both orally and in writing to the Waller ISD designated administrators. We understand that thisinformation will not become part of the child’s medical record. We understand no physician/patient relationship is established bythe collection of this urine sample by the Certified Laboratory. We further release and discharge Waller ISD, its employees, trustees,and officials from any liability relating to the administration of the drug testing program. Also, we sign this release at our own freewill and without coercion.THIS IS A LEGAL CONSENT AND RELEASE FORM.PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY AND BE SURE YOUR QUESTIONS HAVE BEEN ANSWERED BEFORE SIGNING.Executed this _____day of _____________, 201__ in Waller, Harris County, Texas.Parent/Guardian SignatureParent/Guardian SignatureDaytime Phone NumberDaytime Phone NumberI, the student mentioned above, acknowledge that I have read the foregoing consent and release and I understand it and agree to be bound by itsterms and the terms of the drug testing program.Student Signature Student ID DateIn the event that the student is over the age of 18 years, the student is agreeing to be contractually bound by the release as an adult.Student SignatureWaller Independent School District Page 12 of 84 2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductDate

WISD Parent & Student Consent Checklist*** YOU MUST COMPLETE AND RETURN THIS FORM TO YOUR CHILD'S CAMPUS ***Check OneYesNoFormsAcceptable Use of the WISD Electronic Communications Systems:All student computer use shall be in accordance with Board Policy CQ(LOCAL) and teacherdirectives. Inappropriate use of District computers and/or the Internet will result in denial orrestriction of the privilege to use the District’s computers and disciplinary consequences. Failureto check Yes will result in the student not being allowed in the library or the computer labs.For Students: I have read the Parent/Guardian and Student Agreement for Acceptable Use ofthe WISD Electronic Communication Systems. I understand that my computer use is not privateand that the District will monitor my activity on the computer system. I understand thatviolation of these provisions may result in suspension of my access to the system and otherpossible disciplinary actions.For Parents/Guardians: I have read the Parent/Guardian and Student Agreement for AcceptableUse of the WISD Electronic Communication Systems. In consideration for the privilege of my childusing the technology resources of Waller ISD which includes internet access and videoconferencing, I hereby release the District, its operators and any institutions with which they areaffiliated from any and all claims and damages of any nature arising from my child’s use of, orinability to use, the Internet and District Network System.YesNoStudent Computer Use Contract: I have read, understand, and will adhere to the responsibilitiescited in the Waller ISD Computer User Contract. Failure to check Yes will result in the student notbeing able to use Waller ISD computer equipment. Refer to page 12 in the WISD Student/ParentHandbook.Student’s Name & Signature:Printed Name:Student ID:Date:Signature:Parent/Guardian’s Name & Signature:Printed Name:Date:Signature:Waller Independent School District Page 13 of 84 2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct

WISD Acceptable Use of Electronic Communications Systems*** YOU MUST COMPLETE AND RETURN THE PARENT & STUDENTCONSENT CHECKLIST TO YOUR CHILD'S CAMPUS ***The following is a contract between the student, parent or guardian, and the school system.Please read it carefully before signing the Parent & Student Consent Checklist.With access to such vast storehouses of information and instant communication with millions ofpeople from all over the world, material will be available that may not be considered to be ofeducational value by the District or which is inappropriate for distribution to children. The Districthas taken available precautions, including but not limited to enforcing the use of filters that blockaccess to obscenity, child pornography and other materials harmful to minors. However, on aglobal network, it is impossible to control all material and an industrious user may obtain accessto inappropriate information or material. The District firmly believes that the value of theinformation and interaction available on the Internet far outweighs the possibility that studentsand employees may procure material which is not consistent with our educational goals.It is all staff members’ responsibility to educate students about appropriate online behavior,including interactions with other individuals on social networking sites/chat rooms, and cyberbullying awareness and response. This may be done in a variety of ways, such as once a yearshort training sessions, one-on-one education with individual students, and/or via educationalhandouts. It is also the responsibility of all staff members to monitor students’ online activity forappropriate behavior.As a student I agree to the following terms and conditions:• I will not use the Internet for transmission of any materials in violation any federal or stateregulations. Transmission of copyrighted material threatening or obscene materials,materials protected by trade secrets, product advertisement or political lobbying is alsoprohibited.• I will refrain from using profanity and vulgarities on the Internet. I will not use the Internetfor illegal activities.• I will not give my home address, location of my school phone number or any personalinformation about myself or and other student or school personnel to anyone via theInternet.• I understand that use of e-mail or any other communications over the Internet are notprivate; any messages related to or in support of illegal activities may be reported toauthorities.• I understand that I am prohibited from conducting any actions that may endanger mysafety, or the safety of other students/staff members while using any component of theschool’s internet access and/or network (email, chat rooms, etc.).• I will not use the Internet in a way that would disrupt the use of the network by others.• I will respect the trademark and copyrights of materials on the Internet and assumeanything accessed via the network is private property.• The school system and service provider are not responsible for any damages or lossesresulting from using Internet services or information obtained from the Internet.• If I discover any way to access unauthorized information or defeat any security measures Imust inform the lab teacher immediately. I must not share any unauthorized informationwith any other user.• Vandalism of any kind is prohibited.• These terms and conditions shall be governed and interpreted in accordance with the lawsof the state and the United States of America.• I understand access to the Internet through Waller Independent School District is aprivilege. I understand that violation of these provisions may result in suspension of myaccess to the system and other possible disciplinary actions• I understand School authorities can deny any student access to the Internet at any time,and their decisions are final.Waller Independent School District Page 14 of 84 2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct

I understand that:WISD Student Computer Use Contract• Computer settings may not be changed. This includes, but is not limited to, environment, hardware, andsoftware configurations. Settings that need to be altered for particular software will be done by theinstructor.• Only authorized student logins will be used.• Games or other outside programs are not allowed. The downloading of games or other software from theInternet and/or installation or access of these products from removable storage media is prohibited. WallerISD computers are for educational purposes only. The ban on software installation includes freeware,shareware and commercial software, whether installed on the system hard disk or accessed using removablemedia.• Personal music CDs, audio DVDs, or video DVDs will not be accessed using Waller ISD computers.• Sound, video, or picture media files will not be downloaded or installed onto district computers, either harddrives or any other removable storage media, without explicit approval from the instructor.• The Internet may not be used until a signed Internet Use Permission Form is returned.• Internet use must be approved by the instructor, and only approved sites for a particular assignment can bevisited. Random Internet surfing is not permitted.• All printing of documents must be approved by the instructor.• Defacing or damaging computers, peripheral devices, or classroom equipment will not be tolerated.• Accessing another student’s work from any location (including, but not limited to, any removable storagemedia, hard disk personal folder, or server storage area) will result in an automatic zero and a disciplinereferral.• Instructors shall be notified immediately of any computer or peripheral device problem so appropriate repairactions can be initiated and liability, if any, can be determined.• Students will not attempt to bypass required web filters through the use of proxy servers or other tools.• Student access of an inappropriate web site will be reported immediately to the instructor.The consequences of inappropriate behavior are:• Major or repeated infractions will result in disciplinary action and possible revocation of computer privileges.• Parents agree to be financially responsible for any damage that their son/daughter causes to the hardware ifthe damage is caused by improper use of that hardware.Waller Independent School District Page 15 of 84 2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductOur Vision, Philosophy & MissionOur VisionAll students will be successful learners and possess the skills necessary to function in the 21st century.Our PhilosophyAll schools and staff in Waller ISD are committed to positive, supportive interactions with students toensure that all are successful learners.Our MissionThe Waller Independent School District believes that ALL students will be successful learners andgraduate with skills that will allow them to compete in the 21st century workplace. It is therefore theintent of the Waller Independent School District to serve all students regardless of their ability,environment, or national origin. Students will be provided opportunities to develop intellectually,physically, and socially through a quality system of teaching and learning. Through these opportunities,students will become responsible and productive members of a constantly changing society and world.The ResultsUpon graduation, our students will:‣ Demonstrate general academic knowledge and skills that will allow them to be employable suchas reading, writing, mathematical computation, speaking, listening, data manipulation,information processing and retrieval;‣ Exhibit self confidence, self-esteem and flexibility as a learner and as a person;‣ Demonstrate problem-solving, decision-making, and group process skills (teamwork);‣ Demonstrate effective communication skills;‣ Utilize and adapt to technological advances;‣ Demonstrate social, civic, economic, and environmental responsibility by showing ethicalbehavior in personal life and in the workplace;‣ Demonstrate the ability to identify, set, and pursue short and long goals and maintain abalanced (music, art, drama), safe, and healthy lifestyle;‣ Be a self-directed, life-long learner;‣ Demonstrate second language skills.AttendanceAttitudeAcademicsPage 17 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductThe History of Waller Schools1897The first Waller School was built by community members led by Judge J.T. Sanders. The 30' x 24'building was located on the NW corner of Penick and Cherry Streets and is believed to have been facingPenick Street.1898Community School No. 4 for African-American students opened on the SW corner of Bois D'Arc and AStreets.1911The Waller Independent School District was formed by election (54 votes for, 7 votes against).1952A new 12-classroom brick elementary school was constructed along Waller Street with an entrance onFarr Street across from the high school.1958A new Prairie View High School is opened on University Drive and Owens Road.1969A new Waller High School opens on Waller Street on the site of the old brick and stucco building.1974The new I.T. Holleman Elementary School opens in Waller, named after the former superintendent ofWaller ISD.1979A new Waller Junior High School for seventh and eighth grade students is constructed east of theUmland Building and the old elementary school.1985A newly constructed Roberts Road Elementary School opens several miles east of Waller. A new WallerJunior High School opens on Stokes Road.1992After a four-year closure for repairs, Herman T. Jones Intermediate School opens in the Prairie Viewfacility, named after its former principal when it was the Prairie View Training School. The name of theWaller Junior High School is changed to Wayne C. Schultz Middle School after its former principal.1998A new Waller High School opens on Fields Store Road north of Waller and the old Waller High Schoolbecomes Waller Junior High.Page 18 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct2002Fields Store Elementary School opened and Jones Intermediate School became Jones ElementarySchool.2004Groundbreaking for classroom additions to Waller High School, to be followed by additions forperforming arts and outdoor athletics dressing facilities.2006Faculty, staff and students move into the newly constructed classrooms, performing arts and outdoorathletics dressing facilities additions at Waller High School.2007Dual Language Program is offered at all Waller ISD elementary campuses.2008Groundbreaking for Evelyn Turlington Elementary School, classroom addition to Schultz Junior High,and Waller ISD Athletic Stadium.2009Grand opening of Evelyn Turlington Elementary School and Waller ISD Athletic Stadium.School BellThe bell in the WISD logo is a photograph of the original 1887 Waller School bellwhich, after years of silence, has once again assumed a position of prominence in theWaller Independent School District. The bell has been on display since 2000 in themain foyer of the Waller Administration Building. The building was the elementaryschool from 1952-73 and was renovated in 2000.EnrollmentYear Students Year Students1887 80 2007 50711947 315 2008 51341951 600 2009 53961964 1037 2010 54451984 2701 2011 54511997 3687 2012 5618Sources: www.wallerisd.net; The History of Waller, Texas by Stephanie Burman, 1997; Waller ISD enrollment dataPage 19 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductLetter from the PrincipalsDear Students and Parents:This Student/Parent Handbook and Student Code of Conduct is intended to be a valuable source ofinformation for you. It is the expectation of Waller ISD that all students and parents read the handbookand become familiar with its entire contents. This expectation is based on our desire to clearlycommunicate information that supports the efforts of students, staff and parents toward ensuring thepersonal success of each student.Important to the success of each student is his or her physical and emotional safety. Because of this,there are several forms in this handbook that we ask you to review, sign and return, especially theEmergency Medical Treatment Form.We believe that it is extremely important for students to enjoy a school environment whereexpectations are clearly communicated, applied fairly and consistently, and where trust is evidenced inthe actions and relationships of our school-community.It is in this spirit that we welcome and challenge the Waller ISD students to the new school year. Thesuccess of our students continues to be directly related to the level of the pride, responsibility andcommitment exhibited in work, behavior and attitude. Our parents play a vital role in joining inpartnership with our schools to establish and reinforce the highest ideals of scholarship and citizenshipamong our students.As we begin the new school year, full of hope and excitement, we are reminded that it is the students,staff, parents and community who make it special.Best wishes for a happy, productive school year.Fields Store ElementaryClaudia MordecaiEvelyn Turlington Elementary SchoolMindy PeperI.T. Holleman Elementary SchoolStephanie FletcherWaller Junior High SchoolEric MeldahlH.T. Jones Elementary SchoolCarol BatesWayne C. Schultz Junior High SchoolBennie MayesRoberts Road ElementaryAngie DavisWaller High SchoolDr. Brian MerrellPage 20 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductBoard of TrusteesDavid Kaminski, President Michael W. Prince, Vice-President Kim Parmer, SecretaryBryan Lowe, Member Joe Landin, Member Louis Tucker, MemberShaun Nelson, MemberBoard meetings are open to the public except when in closed session. They are generally held on thesecond Monday of the month. Board meeting notices and agendas are posted at the AdministrationBoard Room entrance and on the district website. Board policy is available on the Waller ISD websiteunder Board of Trustees > Board Policy Online.SuperintendentsDanny Twardowski Superintendent 936-931-3685Kevin Moran Assistant Superintendent of Administration 936-931-3685Mike Marcus Assistant Superintendent of Finance 936-931-3695DirectorsJorge Alvarado Bilingual/ESL Director 936-931-3685Kelly Baehren Curriculum/Instructional Director 936-931-3685Mike Brooks Human Resources Director 936-931-3685Steve Underhill Transportation Director 936-372-4089Marianne Kosik Public Relations Director 936-372-3654Terry Logan Maintenance Director/Energy Education 936-372-3559Grant McWilliams Director of Bands 979-221-7688Michael Twigg ACE Program Director 936-931-3685Jan Oatess Special Services Director 936-931-9146Rosa Ojeda Technology Services Director 936-931-4070April Pinkham Food Service Director 936-372-2166Brad Wright Athletic Director 979-221-7688CoordinatorsLauren Crites Elementary & Secondary Reading/ELA Coordinator 936-931-1353Diane Dewease Secondary Mathematics Coordinator 936-372-3654Jennifer Hoffpauir Elementary Mathematics Coordinator 936-372-9196Connie Reed PEIMS Coordinator 936-931-3685Donna Suggitt Testing & Special Programs Coordinator 936-931-3685Steve Underhill Safety and Emergency Management Coordinator 936-931-0350Dr. Sharon Wilder Elementary & Secondary Science Coordinator 936-372-3654Page 21 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductElementary School Campuses (Grades PreK-5)HERMAN T. JONES ELEMENTARYU.S. Mail: 2214 Waller Street, Waller, TX 77484Physical Address: 1570 University Dr. Prairie View, Texas 77446Phone: 936-372-4200 | Fax: 936-857-5050I. T. HOLLEMAN ELEMENTARY2200 Brazeal Street, Waller, TX 77484Phone: 936-372-9196 | Fax: 936-372-2468ROBERTS ROAD ELEMENTARY24920 Zube Road, Hockley, TX 77447Phone: 936-931-0300 | Fax: 281-373-3164FIELDS STORE ELEMENTARY31670 Giboney Road, Waller, TX 77484Phone: 936-931-4050 | Fax: 936-372-4100EVELYN TURLINGTON ELEMENTARY23400 Hegar Road, Hockley, TX 77447Phone: 936-372-0100 | Fax: 936-372-3868Carol Bates, PrincipalKasey White, Administrative InternStephanie Fletcher, PrincipalMelissa Crosby, Asst. PrincipalAngie Davis, PrincipalJose Toscano, Asst. PrincipalClaudia Mordecai, PrincipalTeresa Garrett, Asst. PrincipalMindy Peper, PrincipalRachel DeVous, Asst. PrincipalJunior High School Campuses (Grades 6-8)WAYNE C. SCHULTZ JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL19010 Stokes Road, Waller, TX 77484Phone: 936-931-9103 | Fax: 936-372-9302WALLER JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL2402 Waller Street, Waller, TX 77484Phone: 936-931-1353 | Fax: 936-931-4044Bennie Mayes, PrincipalRay Breeden, Asst. PrincipalTracy Webb, Asst. PrincipalEric Meldahl, PrincipalPam Groschke, Asst. PrincipalJoel Poag, Asst. PrincipalHigh School Campus (Grades 9-12)WALLER HIGH SCHOOL20950 Fields Store Road, Waller, TX 77484Phone: 936-372-3654 | Fax: 936-372-4114Registrar Fax: 936-372-4108Dr. Brian Merrell, PrincipalShawna Hardin, Asst. PrincipalFrankie Johnson, Asst. PrincipalRobert Kinney, III, Asst. PrincipalKevin Tompkins, Asst. PrincipalPage 22 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductResponsibilitiesFor Parents, Our Most Important PartnersYour support, encouragement, and participation in your child’s education are very important.Waller ISD values the partnership between schools and families as we work together for thebenefit of the children. Your input and involvement in your child’s education is the key tosuccess in school. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the school or make anappointment with your child’s teacher. We welcome and need you as partners.‣ Return the Parent Acknowledgement Form with your signature, indicating that youhave read the student rules and consent to the responsibilities outlined in thishandbook.‣ Ensure your child attends school daily. Promptly report and explain absences andtardiness to the school.‣ Provide the necessary materials for learning and encourage proper study habits athome.‣ Participate in meaningful parent-teacher conferences to discuss your child’s schoolprogress and welfare.‣ Stay informed of school rules and encourage your child to obey these rules.‣ Seek changes in school rules and District policies in an orderly and responsible mannerthrough appropriate channels.‣ Participate in school-related organizations.‣ Ensure that your child is appropriately dressed for school and school-related activitiesand has all materials needed for class.‣ Discuss report cards and school assignments with your child.‣ Bring to the attention of school authorities any learning problem or condition that mayrelate to your child’s education.‣ Maintain up-to-date school records for your child including home, work, and emergencytelephone numbers and other pertinent information.‣ Cooperate with school administrators and teachers to assist your child.‣ Ensure your child attends school tutorials when needed.‣ Control your child. A student’s parent or legal guardian is legally liable for propertydamage caused by negligent or malicious conduct of the student.For Students‣ Take care of the 3 A’s (Attendance, Academics, and Attitude).‣ Attend all classes daily and promptly.‣ Are prepared for each class with appropriate materials and assignments.‣ Arrive to school wearing clothes that conform to the dress code.‣ Respect the rights and property of others.‣ Act responsibly.‣ Pay required fees and fines unless they are waived.‣ Refrain from offenses of the Student Code of Conduct.‣ Care for school property.‣ Seek changes in school rules and district policies in an orderly and responsible mannerthrough the appropriate channels.Page 23 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct‣ Seek changes in school rules and district policies in an orderly and responsible mannerthrough the appropriate channels.‣ Give school information to parents.‣ Visit another school only when it is appropriate to be there.‣ Acknowledge that the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcoholor tobacco is wrong and harmful.‣ Cooperate with staff investigation of disciplinary cases and volunteer informationrelating to a serious offense.For Teachers‣ Comply with District and school policies, rules, management guidelines and directives.‣ Perform teaching duties with appropriate preparation, assignments and resourcematerials.‣ Maintain an orderly classroom atmosphere conducive to learning.‣ Establish rapport and an effective working relationship with parents, students, andother staff members.‣ Encourage students to strive toward self-discipline.‣ Encourage good work habits that will lead to the accomplishments of personal goals.‣ Serve as appropriate role models for students, in accordance with the standards of theteaching profession.‣ Use appropriate discipline management techniques developed in the District’s DisciplineManagement Plan.‣ Ensure good student discipline by being in regular attendance and on time.For Administrators‣ Establish the learning climate for the school.‣ Provide instructional leadership.‣ Assume responsibility for discipline and for evaluation of the Discipline ManagementPlan.‣ Respond to discipline problems referred to them by teachers or other staff members.‣ Encourage parent communication with the school, including participation in requiredparent-teacher conferences.‣ Provide appropriate assistance to students in learning self-discipline.‣ Serve as appropriate role models for the students in accordance with the standards ofthe profession.Page 24 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductComplaints or ConcernsUsually student or parent complaints or concerns can be addressed by a phone call or a conference withthe teacher or principal. The most direct route to resolving a concern is to confer directly with theperson involved. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled so easily, WISD hasadopted a standard complaint policy in the district’s policy manual. A copy of this policy and complaintforms may be obtained at any campus or from the district’s website.In general, the student or parent should submit a written complaint and request a conference with thecampus principal. If the concern is not resolved, a request for a conference should be sent to thesuperintendent. If still unresolved, the district provides for the complaint to be presented to the boardof trustees.Page 25 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductEnrollment and WithdrawalEnrollment Requirements (Grades Pre-K thru 12 th )The following documents along with the completed registration forms are required to enroll yourstudent(s) in Waller ISD.1. Parent or legal guardian must register the student‣ Legal guardian must have guardianship papers‣ Provide copy of divorce decree signed and dated by the judge showing custody2. Two proofs of residency in the school district (one from Document A and one from Document B)‣ Document A clarifies ownership of property or relationship to owner of property: Deed WISD Property Tax Statement Current Lease agreement with Property Owner Notarized statement regarding ownership of property along with Property Tax Statement orProperty Owner’s deed‣ Document B provides verification of current residency and intent to continue residency onproperty: Current utility statement with Parent/Guardian Name and Physical Address Current personal business mail (no unsolicited mailings)3. Social Security Card4. State Certified Birth Certificate5. Last Report Card / Transcripts - Documentation showing grade level6. Come prepared to draw a map from the school to your home‣ Transportation must have a map before a bus number will be issued7. Immunizations‣ Refer to the Texas Minimum State Vaccine Requirements forStudents http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/docs/school/6-14_2012-2013_bilingual.pdfPage 26 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductSpecial Enrollment Requirements for Pre-Kindergarten & KindergartenPre -Kindergarten students must be 4 years old on or before September 1, 2012 and meet one of thefollowing requirements:‣ Student does not speak or comprehend the English language‣ Student is educationally disadvantaged if student is eligible to participate in National Free orReduced Price lunch program. Recent income documentation must be furnished.‣ Student is determined to be homeless.‣ Student is child of an active duty member of the armed forces of the U.S.‣ Student is child of a member of armed forces who was injured or killed while serving on activeduty.‣ Student has been in conservatorship (foster care) of the Department of Family and ProtectiveServices (DFPS) following an adversary hearing.Kindergarten students must be 5 years old on or before September 1, 2012.Withdrawal from SchoolA student may be withdrawn from school only by a parent or person in legal control of the student. Awithdraw authorization form must be signed by the person who enrolled the student at least 24 hoursprior to the student’s last day of attendance. The form states the reason for withdrawal, the date ofwithdrawal, and the next school the student will be attending. A forwarding address should be left withthe registrar. All textbooks, library books, district owned materials, delinquent fees, and fines must becleared prior to withdrawing.Page 27 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductCompact for LearningAll Waller ISD schools are fully accredited by the Texas Education Agency and Southern Association ofColleges and Schools.The Waller Independent School District believes that ALL students will be successful learners andgraduate with skills that will allow them to compete in the 21 st century workplace. It is therefore theintent of Waller ISD to serve all students regardless of their ability, environment, or nationalorigin. Students will be provided opportunities to develop intellectually, physically, and socially througha quality system of teaching and learning. Through these opportunities, students will becomeresponsible and productive members of the world.Community, Parents, School, and StudentsPartners in Education = Success for AllAs a student, I will strive to:• believe that I can learn;• show respect for myself, my family, my school, my community, and other people;• always strive to do my best in my work and behavior;• work cooperatively with other students, faculty, and staff;• attend school regularly and actively participate in my educational process;• complete homework in a thorough, legible, and timely manner;• talk to my parents/guardians about school activities; and• partner with district personnel to become life-long learners.As a parent/guardian, I will strive to:• believe my child can learn;• show respect and support for my child, my family, the faculty and staff, my community, and theschool;• ensure that my child attends school regularly and is on time;• provide a quiet place for my child to study and encourage him/her to complete all homework;• attend at least one (1) open house, parent conference, and/or school event each year;• partner with the school to strengthen positive behaviors in my child;• talk with my child about him/her school activities; and• support district personnel to provide life-long learners.As a teacher, I will strive to:• believe that each child can learn;• respect and value the uniqueness of each child and his/her family;• provide an environment that promotes active learning;• assist each child in achieving the essential academic learning requirements;• maintain open lines of communication with students, parents/guardian, and district personnel;• seek ways to involve parents in school programs;• demonstrate professional behavior and a positive attitude; and• model life-long learning through staff development.As members of the Waller educational community, we are partners in your child’s education and weuphold the intent of this compact.Page 28 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductStudent RecordsAudio/Video TapeA school may audio/video tape a child for the purposes of safety or if related to co-curricular,extracurricular, or classroom activities. If other audio or video tapes are to be made, parentalpermission will be obtained.Directory and Student Publicity InformationWaller Independent School District defines directory information as follows in Board Policy FL(LEGAL):Information contained in an education record of a student which would not be generally consideredharmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. It includes, but is not limited to, the student’s name,address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, photograph, dates of attendance, enrollment status,grade level, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members ofathletic teams, honors and awards received and the most recent educational agency or institutionattended.Note: If a parent or eligible student objects to the release of directory information in writing, thestudent’s name, picture, video and audio for student publicity purposes, or other directory informationWILL NOT be used in, but is not limited to, the yearbook, newspaper, newsletter, website, or released tooutside requestors such as colleges, regardless of the extent of the student’s achievement in academicsor athletics. There is no financial remuneration if photos or work is used and Waller ISD is released fromany future claims, as well as any liability arising from the use of said items.Note: Any information listed above that you DO NOT want released should be indicated in writingto the school principal and WISD Public Relations Director within 10 days of receipt of this handbook.Release of Student Info to Military Recruiters/Institutions of Higher Education - The district is requiredby federal law to comply with a request by a military recruiter or an institution of higher education forstudents’ names, addresses, and telephone listings, unless parents have advised the district not torelease their child’s information without prior written consent. You must provide written notice to theschool principal if you do not want the district to provide this information to military recruiters orinstitutions of higher education.For more information look up the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)at www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html or Section 34 CFR 99.37 Code of FederalRegulations at www.gpoaccess.gov or contact Waller ISD Administration.Emergency Contact InformationA Waller ISD Registration form is sent home with all students at the start of each school year so that thelatest address and emergency information can be updated in the school office. It is important to fill outboth sides of the form completely.Note: This form must be returned if you wish to be contacted in a timely manner in case ofemergency.In case of an emergency at school, it is extremely important that student records be accurate. Studentsor parents must update records in the Registrar’s Office when there is any change in address,home/work/cell telephone numbers, guardianship, student’s marital status or a student’s name. A legalPage 29 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conductdocument must be submitted for a student name change (such as a birth certificate, marriage license, orcourt order).School RecordsFor safety concerns records must be completed and returned the first week of school. A student’sschool records are private and protected from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record ismaintained for each student from the time the student enters the District until the student withdraws orgraduates. This record moves with the student from school to school.A student’s educational record is an official record and must be maintained in the student’s legal name.Falsification of a name on a legal document is in violation of the Texas Penal Code.Requests to examine a student’s personal information must be made in person and in writing by theeligible student or their parent or guardian to the registrar. The request shall identify the specificrecord(s) to be examined. Requests are honored as soon as practical.By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a studentwho is a minor, as do students who are 18 years of age or older. If the principal has reviewed andcopied an original signed and dated court order specifically terminating a parent’s right to his child’seducational records, that parent will be denied access to his child’s records.School Records CorrectionsStudents over 18 and parents of minor students may inspect records and request a correction if therecords are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of privacy or other rights. If the Districtrefuses the request to amend the records, the person making the request has the right to a hearing andto place in the student’s records a statement commenting on the information. Although improperlyrecorded grades may be challenged, the student or parents are not allowed to contest grades throughthis process. The student or parents have the right to file a complaint with the Superintendent if theyfeel the District is not in compliance with the law regarding student records.Page 30 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductAttendance & AbsencesAbout AbsencesStudents are required by state law to be in attendance for at least 90 percent of the days a class isoffered per semester in order to receive credit for the classes in which they are enrolled. A student whois in attendance for at least 75 percent, but less than 90 percent, may have credit restored if the studentcompletes a plan approved by the principal that provides for the student to meet the instructionalrequirement of the class.If a student accumulates a sufficient number of excused or unexcused absences to be unable to meetthe per semester requirement, a recommendation may be made by the principal or designee to theschool attendance committee to deny the student credit for that class for that semester.Upon being notified of the recommendation to deny their child credit, a student’s parent/guardian mayrequest a hearing before the school attendance committee to present information regarding why theirchild’s absence should not result in loss of credit. This request must be made in writing within fiveschool days of receipt of notification. The attendance committee may find that denial of credit isappropriate or that the parent has presented compelling evidence that their child should not be deniedcredit.Absences documented and verified for the following reasons will be classified as excused:‣ Personal illness‣ Illness or death in the family‣ Medical or dental appointments‣ Weather or road conditions making travel dangerous‣ Religious or holy day observance‣ Court-ordered or legally related absence‣ Other unusual causes acceptable to the principal‣ Pre-approved scheduled college visits for juniors and seniors (two per year)Absences for reasons other than those listed above will be considered unexcused.A student absent from school shall provide a note that describes the reason for the absence. The noteshall be signed by the student’s parent or guardian. If the student is 18 or older and/or has beendeclared by a court to be an emancipated minor, the student may sign in place of a parent or guardian.Parents should notify the attendance office on the day of the student’s absence to report the reason forthe absence. You may receive a phone call from school personnel verifying your child’s absence.A student will not be counted absent for a documented appointment with a doctor, dentist or otherhealth care professional if the student attends school at any time on the day of the appointment.The student must have a note from the health care provider when they return to school.When notifying the school in writing, the note signed by the parent must contain the followinginformation:‣ the student’s first, last name and grade;‣ the date(s) of the absence;‣ the reason for the absence (example: the student had the flu, a court appearance); and‣ the parent’s daytime telephone number.Page 31 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductIf the student is absent three consecutive days a doctor’s excuse should be provided. The notificationfrom the parent should be received within five school days of the student’s return to school or theabsence will become an unexcused absence. A note regarding a student’s absence, signed by a studenteven with the parent’s permission, will be considered a forgery and the student will be disciplined. Aprincipal or assistant principal may require a physician’s verification of an illness at any time.Activity Absences (Grades 6 th -12 th )Participation in school-sponsored extracurricular activities is not considered an absence from school.However, students may not miss any class to participate in any one or a combination of such activitiesmore than 15 times during a school year. Students participating in activities approved by the Board ofTrustees as extracurricular activities must follow these same guidelines.Attendance Age RequirementIn Texas, children must attend school through their 18th birthday, unless exempted by law. School staffmembers investigate and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law to the appropriatecourt authorities. The age requirement for prekindergarten is 4 years old before or on September 1,kindergarten students must be 5 years old before or on September 1, and first grade students must be 6years old before or on September 1.Attendance for CreditIf a student attends less than 75 percent of the days a class is offered or has not completed the planapproved by the principal, then the student will be referred to the attendance review committee todetermine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how the student canregain credit, if appropriate.Community College EnrollmentStudents enrolled in a course at a community college must comply with the attendance requirements ofthe college and the District in order to earn credit for the course.Compulsory Attendance Law ViolationsThe attendance clerk investigates possible compulsory attendance law violations and presents evidenceto the court of compulsory attendance law violations. Students and/or parents may be issued Class Ctickets to be filed in a Harris County or Waller County Justice of the Peace Court for failure to attendschool. Students are also required to make up all class time missed to adhere to the 90% rule. Studentsmust make up the class time missed as assigned by the school administrators. Make up time must bedocumented by school personnel.Early Dismissal for High School Co-op or Other Regular ArrangementsA student scheduled for early dismissal must leave the campus within the six-minute class-changeperiod after their last scheduled class, unless the student has obtained a permit from a school staffmember to remain at a specific location on campus. A student with this permit must report to thelocation designated on the permit prior to the beginning of the next class period. Any student remainingon campus without authorization and without supervision is subject to disciplinary action.For scheduled early dismissal, parents and students will be required to sign a statement agreeing thatthe student will have their own transportation and will leave campus within six minutes after their lastclass.Page 32 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductLeaving School Early (Grades PreK-5 th )The compulsory attendance law requires that students be in attendance during the normal operatingschool hours. To take a student out of school during the day, parent/guardian should send a note to thehomeroom teacher at the start of the day stating the reason and time of departure or call at least onehour prior to student pick-up time. A sign-out sheet is to be filled out by the parent in the school officewhen a student is dismissed early. Excessive early departures are in violation of compulsory attendancelaws and may result in charges being filed.Leaving School Early (Grades 6 th -12 th )Students, including those 18 years or older, wishing to leave the campus during the school day musttake a written note, signed by their parent, to the attendance office before school that day. The noteshould contain the full name of the student, date, grade, time, reason for dismissal, parent’s daytimetelephone number and then a call will be made to verify the note. The student will obtain their permit toleave from the attendance office before they report to their last class of the day. They must show thepermit to the teacher in their last class at the time they are to leave. The student must sign out at theattendance office as they leave the building in order not to be considered truant. In cases ofemergencies, parents/guardians may call the attendance office and request their student be dismissedfrom school and state the reason. The attendance clerks will document the call to serve as a writtenpermission statement from the parent.Note: Attendance is kept period by period so a student will be counted absent and will besubject to lose credit in a class if they miss more than 10% of the days in a semester.Reporting AbsencesA student absent from school shall provide a note that describes the reason for the absence. The noteshall be signed by the student’s parent or guardian. If the student is 18 or older and/or has beendeclared by a court to be an emancipated minor, the student may sign in place of a parent or guardian.Parents should notify the attendance office on the day of the student’s absence to report the reason forthe absence. You may receive a phone call from school personnel verifying the absence.A student will not be counted absent for a documented appointment with a doctor, dentist or otherhealth care professional if the student attends school at any time on the day of the appointment and ifthe student satisfactorily completes the missed school work in a reasonable amount of time. Thestudent must have a note from the health care provider when they return to school.When notifying the school in writing, the note signed by the parent must contain the followinginformation: the student’s first, middle, last name and grade; the date(s) of the absence; the reason forthe absence, i.e., the student had the flu, a court appearance; and the parent’s daytime telephonenumber. If the student is absent three consecutive days a doctor’s excuse should be provided. Thenotification from the parent should be received within five school days of the student’s return to schoolor the absence will become an unexcused absence. A note regarding a student’s absence, signed by astudent even with the parent’s permission, will be considered a forgery and the student will bedisciplined. A principal or assistant principal may require a physician’s verification of an illness at anytime.Tardy Policy (Grades 6 th -12 th )Tardiness will be handled in accordance with school and class rules. A tardy of more than 15 minutes toany class period becomes an absence. Students more than five minutes late to any class will beconsidered as skipping class. Possible consequences may include parent/student conference, detention,ISS or AEP placement.Page 33 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductTruancyTruancy is an absence from school without a valid excuse. Truancy counts as an unexcused absence andrepeated truancy will result in a referral to the appropriate administrator and will result in a disciplinereferral.Page 34 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductStay in School ProgramPage 35 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductHealth MattersBacterial Meningitis‣ What is meningitis?Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused byviruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria. Viral meningitis is most common and the least serious.Bacterial meningitis is the most common form of serious bacterial infection with the potential forserious, long-term complications. It is an uncommon disease, but requires urgent treatment withantibiotics to prevent permanent damage or death.‣ What are the symptoms?Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness may develop over one or two days, but itcan also rapidly progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis will have the samesymptoms. Children (over 1 year old) and adults with meningitis may have a severe headache, hightemperature, vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights, neck stiffness or joint pains, and drowsiness orconfusion. In both children and adults, there may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots. These canoccur anywhere on the body. The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is based on a combination ofsymptoms and laboratory results.‣ How serious is bacterial meningitis?If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority of people make a complete recovery. Insome cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a permanent disability.‣ How is bacterial meningitis spread?Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as diseases like thecommon cold or the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the airwhere a person with meningitis has been. The germs live naturally in the back of our noses andthroats, but they do not live for long outside the body. They are spread when people exchangesaliva (such as by kissing, sharing drinking containers, utensils, or cigarettes).The germ does not cause meningitis in most people. Instead, most people become carriers of thegerm for days, weeks, or even months. The bacteria rarely overcome the body’s immune systemand cause meningitis or another serious illness.‣ How can bacterial meningitis be prevented?Do not share food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or cigarettes. Limit the number of persons youkiss. While there are vaccines for some other strains of bacterial meningitis, they are used only inspecial circumstances. These include when there is a disease outbreak in a community or for peopletraveling to a country where there is a high risk of getting the disease. Also, a vaccine isrecommended by some groups for college students, particularly freshmen living in dorms orresidence halls. The vaccine is safe and effective (85–90 percent). It can cause mild side effects,such as redness and pain at the injection site lasting up to two days. Immunity develops withinseven to ten days after the vaccine is given and lasts for up to five years.‣ What should you do if you think you or a friend might have bacterial meningitis?You should seek prompt medical attention.‣ Where can you get more information?Your school nurse, family doctor, and the staff at your local or regional health department office areexcellent sources for information on all communicable diseases. You may also call your local healthPage 36 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conductdepartment or Regional Department of State Health Services office to ask about a meningococcalvaccine. Additional information may also be found at the Web sites for the Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov, and the Department of State HealthServices, http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/.ClinicA student is allowed in the clinic only with a pass except in emergencies. If it is not an emergency and astudent does not have a pass, they will be required to return to class and will receive a tardy if they arelate to class.All accidents occurring at school and requiring the services of a physician or an absence of one-half dayor more from school must be reported to the clinic the day of the accident. Accident reports arecompleted by the nurse. An emergency treatment authorization form is included in this book forparents to complete and return to school.In the event of a sudden illness or emergency, a student should report to the clinic. If the student needsto go home, the nurse will contact the parent, guardian or emergency contact person. A student wholeaves the campus due to illness or injury without reporting to the clinic will be considered truant. Inthe event of a serious medical emergency, parents or guardians will be notified and the student may betransported to the nearest hospital.Contagious DiseasesTo protect other students from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are notallowed to come to school while contagious. If a parent suspects that his or her child has a contagiousdisease, the parent should contact the school nurse or principal so that other students who might havebeen exposed to the disease can be alerted. The school nurse can provide more information regardingthese diseases or visit the Department of State Health Services online athttp://www.dshs.state.tx.us/idcu/.DiarrheaStudents should not be sent to school with a stomach virus, vomiting or diarrhea. Students should befree of fever and diarrhea for 24 hours without the use of medication before to returning to school.FeverStudents with a temperature of 100˚F or above must not be sent to school. Students who come to theclinic during the school day and have a temperature of 100˚F or above will be sent home. Studentsshould be fever free for 24 hours without the aid of an antipyretic (Tylenol, aspirin, etc.) beforereturning to school.ImmunizationsFor immunization requirements and schedules, refer to:‣ WISD Enrollment Requirements under the Enrollment and Withdrawal topic in this handbook‣ WISD Board Policy FFAB(LEGAL)‣ Texas Department of State Health Services Childhood and Adolescent Immunization Schedule:www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/schedule/schedule_child.shtm‣ Texas Department of State Health Services School Requirements:http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/school/default.shtm‣ 2012-2013 Texas Minimum State Vaccine Requirements for Students:http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/docs/school/6-14_2012-2013_bilingual.pdfPage 37 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductMedication at SchoolAll medications, both prescription and non-prescription, which have been approved for use by the FDA,are administered under the supervision of the school nurse or other designated school personnel only atthe written request of a student’s parent/legal guardian. The parent/physician medication form isavailable in the nurse’s office and on the district website. A student may only use prescriptionmedications that are legally prescribed for them by a duly licensed practitioner of the state of Texas. If amedication is dispensed outside of the United States, authorization for use and written instructions forproper administration must be submitted to the school nurse by a physician licensed to practicemedicine in the state of Texas. All written requests should include the student’s name, ID#, grade, nameof medication, directions for dosage and time to be given, and parent/guardian signature.‣ All medication must be furnished by the parent/guardian, must be brought/sent to the clinicimmediately upon arrival to school, and must be in the original container labeled with the child’sname, name of medication, and directions. Physician’s name must be on prescriptionmedication.‣ Medication samples given by your physician must be accompanied by written instructions by thephysician on a prescription pad or note. If there are questions regarding the medication, theprescribing physician will be contacted for diagnosis and clarification. Parents will be notifiedand informed about the communication with the physician.‣ Students attending Waller ISD are prohibited from bringing to school any controlled substance,i.e. Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta, Codeine medicines, seizure medications, or insulin. Aparent/guardian MUST bring and pick up these medications to/from school.All other medications will be sent home only with a written request from a parent/guardian. Anymedication remaining at school after the last day of school will be disposed of properly. All medicinewill be kept in a secure manner and refrigerated if necessary. The clinic does NOT provide anymedication for students including Tylenol, Advil, etc.A student with asthma, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), or diabetes may be permitted to possessand use prescribed medication and monitoring devices at school or school related events provided thefollowing criteria is met: 1) Written authorization from parent/guardian AND a licensed physician. 2)The student must be able to demonstrate to their physician and the school nurse the appropriate use ofthe prescribed medication, any device necessary to administer it, and/or any monitoring equipment.FORMS are located in the front of the handbook and online.In accordance with the Nurse Practice Act: herbs, vitamins, food supplements, and other nonprescriptionsubstances not approved or regulated by the FDA will not be administered by nursingpersonnel.In certain emergency situations, the district will maintain and administer to a student nonprescriptionmedication that is provided by the parent, but only:‣ In accordance with the guidelines developed with the district’s medical advisor and‣ When the parent has previously provided written consent to emergency treatment on thedistrict’s form.Page 38 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductGeneral InformationBus Transportation & RulesThe opportunity to ride a bus to and from school is a privilege which may be withdrawn for failure tofollow a bus driver’s direction or any of the bus rules. Video cameras may be used on buses to helpensure the safety of students. Parents/guardians/other adults are not allowed to board the bus or totake a student off the bus. Students need to be at the bus stop at least 5 minutes prior to bus arrivaltime. Students age nine and under will not be dropped off unless the student’s parent or guardian ispresent. For the complete bus system guidelines, visit the transportation pages on the district websiteat www.wallerisd.net.Bus Rules - In addition to the rules for good conduct expected from students at school, students areexpected to:‣ Follow the directions of the bus driver.‣ Talk in a moderate tone and not use profanity.‣ Keep all parts of their bodies inside the bus.‣ Board the bus only with objects limited to a size that can be transported on their laps.‣ Animals and glass containers are never permitted on the bus.‣ Dispose of materials after leaving or before entering the bus – never throw them out thewindows of the bus.‣ Ride their assigned bus unless other arrangements have been made.‣ Enter and exit the bus only at the student’s designated bus stop unless other arrangements havebeen made. Remain 10 feet from the bus loading location.‣ Do not possess or use tobacco or other prohibited substances on buses.‣ Follow the student dress code while riding the bus.Students violating bus rules are subject to disciplinary consequences, which may include suspension ofbus riding privileges and/or a Class C ticket for disruption of transportation. When a disruption occurson a WISD bus, students may be removed from the bus by an administrator, staff member or the police.If a parent/guardian cannot be contacted, the student may be transported to Children’s ProtectiveServices (CPS).Bus Changes - In order for a student to ride a different bus or change bus stops, the parent/guardianmust call one hour before the end of the school day or they must have a note signed by their parent/guardian and approved by a school administrator. The note should be taken to the campus main officebefore school. It should have a telephone number and name of a parent who can be contacted to verifythe note. The student will be given a bus pass signed by the principal or designee, providing there isspace on the bus, and they must show the pass to the driver before boarding the bus.Late Boarding - Due to the concern for the safety of students and the need for each bus to meetschedules at other schools, students will not be permitted to board the buses after the first bus beginsmoving away from the school. Telephones are available in the main office for students who miss thebus.Transporting Students in Alternative Program at Waller - If a student is assigned to the DAEP Program,Waller ISD will not provide bus transportation to or from DAEP. The student’s parent/guardian isresponsible for providing transportation.Page 39 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductClass InterruptionsClass time for students will not be interrupted by activities unrelated to the instructional program, suchas birthday parties. Flowers and other deliveries of a personal nature will not be delivered to studentsuntil the end of the school day. Students wishing to hand out party invitations at school must include aninvitation for all students in their classroom.Computer/Internet Acceptable UseStudents will be permitted to use District computers and to appropriately access the Internet only if thestudent and the parent sign and submit the application forms for Internet access. The Acceptable Use ofWaller ISD Electronic Communications Systems form and the Student Computer Use Contract form arelocated in this handbook. All student computer use shall be in accordance with Board Policy CQ(LOCAL)and teacher directives. Inappropriate use of District computers and/or the Internet will result in denialor restriction of the privilege to use the District’s computers and disciplinary consequences. Studentswill not be allowed in the library or the computer labs unless they have the Acceptable Use of Waller ISDElectronic Communications Systems form and the Student Computer Use Contract form signed.Distribution of LiteratureLiterature concerning the school or school activities, as well as school publications, must be submittedto the principal or his designee for prior review before being distributed. Distribution may be restrictedin accordance with provisions in the District’s management guidelines.Any literature to be distributed on the campus must have the approval of the principal or designee.Material to be posted must be approved and initialed by the principal or designee. Literature relating tonon-profit, non-school, student-oriented activities is not permitted unless approved by the AssistantSuperintendent for Administration at the District Administration Office. This regulation applies to schoolgrounds and buses. Approved posters may be taped on brick or concrete block walls but not onsheetrock walls.Fees & Fee WaiversThe District is authorized to charge fees or require deposits for some materials and activities. Uponreceipt by the District of reliable proof that a student and their parent or guardian are unable to pay afee or deposit required by the schools or to pay for a lost or damaged textbook, such fee or deposit orpayment may be waived. Such student and their parent or guardian must present evidence of theirinability to pay to the appropriate principal who shall determine eligibility for a fee waiver or for aninstallment payment plan for a lost or damaged textbook.Food & DrinksFood and drinks may be consumed only in the cafeteria. No food deliveries from outside except byparent/guardian. The following guidelines apply to drink containers:‣ Only unopened drink containers may be brought into the building. The use of clear waterbottles and/or coffee containers is allowed.‣ Any drink to be consumed during lunch must be kept in the student’s locker until lunch.‣ Drink containers may only be opened and consumed in the cafeteria before school, after schooland during lunch.‣ Any drink container not in compliance with these guidelines will be confiscated.‣ Due to disruption in the controlled environment, no food or drink may be delivered to ISS orLunch Detention.Page 40 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductFood ServiceWaller ISD Food Service Department participates and provides meals through the National School LunchProgram and the School Breakfast Program. Meals are provided to households at a free or reducedprice if households qualify. Households are encouraged to complete a meal application form at anytime during the school year. Households receiving free or reduced priced meals do need to reapplyevery year. If a household wishes to apply for free or reduced priced meals, money should be sent formeals until the household is notified. Refer to the Food Services webpage on www.wallerisd.net for themost current information regarding meal pricing.Meals may be pre-paid by check, cash or money order directly to the cafeteria or by goingto www.lunchmoneynow.com/lmnwal. Pre-paying for meals is encouraged but not required. Parentscan also view purchase history and sign up for low balance email notification on the Lunch Money Nowwebsite at no charge. If paying by check, please include the student name and ID number and makechecks payable to Waller ISD Food Service.Elementary menus for breakfast and lunch can be found on the Waller ISD Food Service website.Secondary menus change periodically but students have many choices. Waller ISD Food Serviceprovides the most nutritious meal possible while keeping prices affordable for parents. Fresh fruits andvegetables are offered daily along with whole grain choices. Nutrient analysis of menus is available uponrequest. If a student has allergies to certain food items, please notify the school nurse as well as theFood Service office.Charging meals is not allowed except in the event of an emergency. Parents are expected to pay anycharges incurred in a timely manner. Low balance letters will be sent home weekly at the elementarycampuses. Letters will not be sent home with secondary students.Grooming & Attire (Dress Code)Appropriate student dress and grooming is that which is deemed in good taste, reflecting the standardsof the community of which the schools are an integral and visible part. The dress and grooming ofstudents conveys an image of the schools and students, influencing how others respond to and judgethe Waller ISD and its students, as well as contributing to the school climate to which studentsthemselves respond.It is impractical to list every possibility of dress and grooming. The principal of each campus shall applythe Grooming Code and make all final decisions regarding what is acceptable and appropriateconsidering the age and activities of the students. Guidelines and administrative decisions regardingappropriate dress will reflect concern for health and safety of students and the influence of specificdress or grooming on the overall educational climate of the school. The guidelines will be reviewedperiodically to ensure that they continue to reflect community expectations while permitting individualchoices and recognizing acceptable current fashions.Specific Guidelines:‣ Students must wear appropriate underclothing and shoes. House shoes or house slippers arenot allowed.‣ Student’s shorts, skirts, or dresses must be mid-thigh or longer in length. Students are notpermitted to wear very tight, very loose, oversized, revealing or very short clothing. Pants mustbe worn at the waist. No pajama clothing. Examples of unacceptable clothing, according to thisguideline include, but are not limited to: cutoffs, jogging, wind, boxers or biker shorts. Midriffs,stomachs, and backs must not show with normal movement. Students cannot wear tank tops orsleeveless shirts.‣ Tattoos must not be visible.Page 41 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct‣ Clothing with visual or written messages which are likely to disrupt the school environment isprohibited. Examples of such prohibited visual or written messages include, but are not limitedto drugs, alcohol, tobacco, weapons, violence, vulgar, obscene language which could beconstrued to have an offensive meaning or sexual connotation and insults to race, religion,gender, or ethnicity. Trench coats of any kind are not permitted.‣ A student wearing any form of dress or hairstyle identifying them with a gang, cult or otherunauthorized student group or representing or symbolizing the beliefs of such a group, will berequired to correct their dress or appearance.‣ A student’s hair must be neat, clean and must not be distracting or interfere with the learningenvironment. Extreme hairstyles, hair designs and hair color are not acceptable. A malestudent’s hair may not extend below the bottom of a sport shirt collar. The wearing of wigs,hairpieces or other devices to avoid compliance with the grooming code shall not be permitted.A male student may not wear a beard or goatee and sideburns may not extend past the earlobe.‣ Noisy or distracting jewelry or accessories may not be worn. Nose/facial/tongue studs areprohibited. Male students may not wear earrings of any type. Inappropriate piercings must beremoved. It is not permissible for the student to cover the inappropriate piercings.‣ No type of cap, hat, bandana or headband is to be worn in the school. Sunglasses may be wornonly when prescribed by a physician. Sunglasses cannot be worn around the neck or on top ofthe head.‣ A student who is sent home to correct a grooming problem will be absent on an unexcused basisfor that period of time. In the event that a parent cannot be reached to remove a student fromschool to correct their grooming, the student will be placed in ISS. Discipline consequences mayalso result for grooming code violations. The student’s parent will be required to speak with aschool administrator concerning the student’s dress before the student will be permitted toreturn to class after correcting their dress on the initial offense. A parent conference may berequired on the second offense.‣ Clothing from the DAEP program may only be worn in the DAEP program and not on thestudent’s home campus or at any WISD event or activity.Guidance & CounselingAcademic Counseling - Students and their parents are encouraged to talk with a school counselor,teacher, or principal to learn more about course offerings, graduation requirements, and earlygraduation procedures. Each spring, students will be provided information on anticipated courseofferings for the next school year and other information that will help them make the most of academicand CTE opportunities.To plan for the future, each student should work closely with the counselor in order to enroll in the highschool courses that best prepare him or her for attendance at a college, university, or training school, orfor pursuit of some other type of advanced education. The counselor can also provide informationabout entrance exams and application deadlines, as well as information about automatic admission tostate colleges and universities, financial aid, housing, and scholarships.Personal Counseling - The school counselor is available to assist students with a wide range of personalconcerns, including such areas as social, family, emotional issues, substance abuse, or suicideawareness. The counselor may also make available information about community resources to addressthese concerns.Hall ConductStudents are expected to change classes in an orderly and quiet manner by staying to the right in thehall and going directly to their destination. There should be no shouting, running, whistling, loud talking,Page 42 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conductor boisterous conduct at any time. Displays of affection such as kissing, hugging or other impropercontact are not permitted.Students in the hall after the tardy bell has rung must have a pass or be subject to disciplinary action. Ahall pass does not give permission to loiter in the halls or in the restroom. A delay in route may causethe student to be sent to the office for disciplinary action.Internet ResourcesResourceWaller ISD Board Policy ManualTexas Education AgencyLinkhttp://pol.tasb.org/Home/Index/1200http://www.tea.state.tx.us/Library (Grades PreK-5 th )The library hours are as announced for students to check out and return books. The book loan period isone week for the elementary schools and must be returned before other books can be checked out tothat child.The student is responsible for any lost or defaced books. Fines and damages must be paid and all librarybooks turned in by the end of the school year or before students withdraw. Payment for a library bookwill be refunded if the undamaged book is found.Library (Grades 6 th -8 th )Library hours are as announced. Library staff members are available to assist students in locatingmaterials. A pass is required to enter the library during class time and lunch. A security system is usedin the library. Having material not properly checked out may be cause for referral to an assistantprincipal. Library rules are:‣ Reference materials and magazines may be checked out overnight.‣ All other books may be checked out for two weeks.‣ Materials must be returned in the same condition as when they were checked out. Lost ordamaged materials must be paid for at replacement cost.‣ A fine of 5 cents per school day will be levied for overdue materials. A fine of 25 cents per daywill be levied for all overnight materials.Library (Grades 9 th -12 th )Students may come to the library before school, during lunch and after school without a pass. Duringclass time, a pass from a teacher or librarian is required. Check the Waller High School library web pagefor hours of operation and other special notices.Books are checked out for a 2-week period and must be returned in the same condition as when theywere checked out. Lost or damaged materials must be paid for at replacement cost. Student records willbe held if fines are not cleared by the end of each semester. Check out privileges will be denied untilunpaid fines or other obligations are cleared. The librarian may elect to withdraw a student’s libraryprivileges if he/she determines that student to be a disruption to others in the library.Lockers (Grades 9 th -12 th )In high school, each student is assigned a locker. It is the responsibility of the student to keep theirlocker clean and orderly at all times. Periodic locker checks are made by school personnel or securityservice personnel using trained dogs. Anything in a student’s locker is considered to be in theirpossession. Students may not affix anything permanently inside of the locker. A student should not putPage 43 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conductbooks in a locker that is not theirs or they will be subject to disciplinary action. A student should notpermit another student to share their locker at any time. Students must not fix or jam the locking deviceon their locker. Students should not write in or on the locker or put stickers on the locker.School lockers are the property of Waller ISD. Inspection of lockers may be conducted by schoolauthorities for any reason at any time, without notice, without student consent and without a searchwarrant. Students may be assessed a fine for damage, or non-removal of stickers, graffiti, etc., if thelocker is not cleaned properly.Lost and FoundParents and students are encouraged to label belongings. Found articles should be turned in to thecampus office. A lost textbook must be paid for prior to issuance of a replacement. If the textbook isfound, payment for the book will be refunded. Students are responsible for securing their personalproperty. Unclaimed articles will be donated to a local agency.MoneyWhen students bring money to school for lunch or special activities, it should be in a sealed envelopewith the student’s full name, teacher’s name and instructions for its use on the outside of the envelope.Students are encouraged not to bring large amounts of money to school. It is the student’sresponsibility to keep up with their money.Motorized VehiclesA student driving a motorized vehicle to school must be a licensed driver and have the state requiredliability insurance coverage. The student must register the motor vehicle and obtain a parking stickerfrom the front office during the first week of school. The parking sticker must be visible in the frontwindow. Motorcycles must have a parking sticker affixed to the left side of the gas tank.School administrators may assign disciplinary consequences, including but not limited to revokingparking privileges for the remainder of the year for excessive parking violations or failure to comply withsafety guidelines.Non-School FundraisingStudents are not allowed to bring to school items (such as candy, cookies) being sold as part of afundraiser sponsored by a non-school organization.Office HoursOffice hours are 30 minutes before the start of school through 30 minutes after the end of school.Overnight Weather-Related ClosingsIn an effort to provide parents, community organizations and the general public with reliableinformation regarding school closures due to man-made or natural disasters, the District is registered touse the School Closing Notification System through www.school-alerts.com. This system automaticallynotifies television and radio stations of school closures as well as notifies parents via e-mail. You mayadd your e-mail address by visiting www.schoolclosings.net and then choose “Add your e-mail” on theleft side of the menu screen. District school closing notifications will also be posted on the Districtwebsite at www.wallerisd.net.Other communication tools used by the District include phone and text broadcasted messages regardingschool closures through Skylert School Messenger. Parents and guardians also have the option to utilizePage 44 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conductthe Skylert School Messenger Call-In Message Retrieval System by calling 1-866-824-9878. This systemplays the last ten Skylert messages that were sent to the family’s phone number that is registered in theWaller ISD’s Skyward Student Information System.PE Dress/ParticipationStudents are only permitted to wear clothing that is consistent with the school dress code while in P.E.class. Students may have physical education each day and should wear appropriate shoes(sneakers/athletic shoes) for safety and active participation. A written excuse is required if a child is notto participate in physical education. If the child is to be excused more than five days, a doctor’sstatement is required. A child who has been excused from physical education will also be excused fromrecess. Policy FFA (Local) establishes the requirements for nutrition, wellness, and physical educationfor students in Waller ISD schools. Students in grades 6-8 are required to take PE. All students K-12 arerequired to take a physical fitness test (Fitness Gram).Pets/AnimalsNo pets or animals are allowed at school unless approved by the school Principal.PTOParent-Teacher Organization (PTO) functions to support the students, staff and school programs. Thisindependent organization has memberships and elected officers. Periodic night meetings are held forthe membership. Fundraising activities and paid memberships provide the organization with resources,which are expended annually for the use and benefit of the students.Public Address (PA) SystemDuring announcements over the public address system, everyone in the building should be attentive.Radios/MP3/CD Players/Music/Cameras/DVD/Video/Recording DevicesThese items are not permitted at all. If confiscated, a parent or legal guardian must pick up theconfiscated device from a school administrator. The District shall not assume responsibility for theseitems if they are damaged, lost, or stolen. Investigations and searches will not be conducted for theseitems if lost or stolen.School FundraisingStudents must adhere to all school sponsored fundraising rules and guidelines. Students may not profitfrom any school fundraising activities.School SafetyStudents are expected to report any information regarding the possible threat to the safety of students,staff or building. Students should report their concerns to the staff, School Resource Officers, the HarrisCounty Crime Stoppers Hotline (713) 222-TIPS (8477), or the Waller County Crime Stoppers Hotline at(979) 826-8266.For grades 6 th -12 th , students who are not in the library or with a faculty sponsor (for purposes oftutoring, club meetings, team practices, rehearsals, or the after-school computer classes) must leavecampus by 3:00 p.m.School Sponsored Field TripsField trips are to enhance and supplement the curriculum. Parents will receive notices of field trips wellin advance of the scheduled trip date. Since students are expected to maintain good behavior on fieldPage 45 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conducttrips, a student who has not followed rules and procedures at school may not be eligible to participate inthe field trip.Student Identification Badges (Grades 9 th -12 th )Waller High School students are required to wear student identification badges (ids). The ids must beworn on the outside of the students’ upper body attached to the shirt or jacket or on a lanyard aroundthe neck and must be displayed at all times. The student is responsible for purchasing a new id badge ifit is lost, stolen or damaged. The student will be charged a fee to replace a lost student ID badge. Atemporary badge will be issued if the student has forgotten his/her badge for a single day.Telecommunication DevicesThe District prohibits the use of all telecommunications devices, including cellular phones andpagers/beepers, camera and video phones and all video and audio recording devices at all schools andschool-sponsored or school-related activities on or off school property, during the instructional schoolday. Students shall be allowed to possess such devices; however, such devices must not be visible andmust remain turned off during the instructional school day.Confiscation - When telecommunications devices are confiscated, the following documentation shall beobtained:‣ Date/Time/Location of confiscation;‣ Name of the person confiscating the device;‣ Name and address of the student possessing the device;‣ Name of owner if different than student; and‣ Description of the device including serial number.The student’s parent or guardian may pick up the device from the school after showing proof ofownership. If devices are not claimed by the end of the school year, the student’s parent or guardianwhose name and address appear on the device shall be given 30 days’ prior notice of the District’s intentto dispose of the device in a surplus property auction.Note: The District shall not assume responsibility for these items if they are damaged, lost, orstolen.Penalties - Students who violate this policy shall be subject to established disciplinary measures, inaccordance with the Student Code of Conduct.‣ 1 st Offense – Parent conference; return cell phone/telecommunication device to the parent orguardian at the end of the school day plus pay a $15 administrative fee.‣ 2 nd Offense – Parent conference; return cell phone/telecommunication device to the parent orguardian after end of third school day from time of confiscation and pay a $15 administrativefee.‣ 3rd Offense – Student is not permitted to have a cell phone/telecommunication device at schoolfor the remainder of the semester, or if confiscated during the 3rd or 6th six weeks, the studentmay not be permitted to possess a cell phone/telecommunication device the followingsemester.Telephone MessagesStudents are not called to the telephone nor are messages delivered during class periods except inextreme emergencies. Students may use the school telephone only in unusual circumstances afterobtaining permission from school personnel.Page 46 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductTextbooksAll district textbook adoptions come from the conforming list of state adopted material. District andstate textbooks and other instructional materials (i.e. calculators, cameras, etc.) in the secondaryschools are issued or checked out to students for their use while enrolled in the District. Materials arechecked out to students by their subject level teacher or the textbook custodian. Students areresponsible for the return of all materials and textbooks issued to them or replacement of textbooks orother instructional materials and equipment issued to them.Student responsibilities for textbooks/instructional materials/equipment:‣ Textbooks must be kept covered at all times and instructional materials and equipment must beappropriately secured.‣ Textbooks, instructional materials and equipment must be maintained in the same condition asissued.‣ Replacement cost is charged for lost or defaced textbooks, lost or damaged materials and lost ordamaged equipment issued to students.‣ Fines are assessed for damage to textbooks, instructional materials and equipment.‣ Textbooks, instructional materials and equipment issued to students must be made available forclassroom checks. If these items are not available, they will be treated as lost.‣ Textbooks and other material must not be loaned or shared.‣ Report cards will be held until charges for damage or replacement are paid to the schoolbookkeeper.‣ Replacement textbooks and replacement materials or equipment will not be issued until chargesare cleared. Refund claims must be completed within 10 working days after school is out.‣ Should the lost textbook or other instructional material be found, the payment for the lost itemwill be refunded by school check.Vehicle Loading & UnloadingStudents need to wait in the assigned area for vehicle loading. Please remain in your vehicles so trafficcan move forward as students are loaded or unloaded. To ensure you child’s safety, we request that youfollow the designated pick up loop.Verification of Enrollment & Attendance for Driver’s LicenseState law requires any person under the age of 18, who has not obtained a high school diploma or itsequivalent, must show evidence of 90% attendance for each class in which they are enrolled. Studentsapplying for a driver’s license during the summer should obtain the signed Verification of Enrollment andAttendance Form from the front office.VisitorsParents and other adult visitors are welcome to visit District schools provided they show a state issuedID. All visitors must report to the receptionist and sign in to get a visitor’s badge. The visitor’s badgemust be worn while visiting and returned when the visit is over. Visits to individual classrooms duringinstructional time shall be permitted only with the principal’s approval. Such visits shall not be permittedif their duration or frequency interferes with the delivery of instruction or disrupts the normal schoolenvironment. Classroom visits should be arranged at least 24 hours in advance. Driver’slicense/identification will be kept in the front office until the visitor checks out. Student visitors are notallowed.Note: No visitors are allowed campus visits on state assessment testing days.When visitors, volunteers, or contractors check in to a campus – or when parents come to pick upstudents during the day – they will be asked to present a valid state-issued ID for entering into the V-Page 47 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductSoft system. The V-Soft system is a computerized visitor tracking system that screens visitors usingpublic sex offender database information as well as any additional alert data entered by the school inregard to custody issues, restraining orders, and WISD prohibited persons.VolunteersOpportunities are available throughout the year for parents or interested community members to assistwith many aspects of the school program as part of the volunteer program. Volunteers are alwayswelcome to assist in the schools to tutor, help teachers, and assist in computer labs and library. Allvolunteers are required to attend a volunteer orientation and submit to a criminal background checkbefore volunteering at school. Volunteers are requested to sign in, wear ID, and go only to thedesignated volunteer area.Page 48 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductCompliance StatementsAsbestos ManagementWaller ISD is in compliance with Federal and State regulations concerning asbestos. If you wish toreview the Asbestos Management Plan for your child’s school, a copy of the plan is available in the frontoffice as well as the WISD Maintenance Office.Child Abuse ReportingAny person who has cause to suspect that a child’s physical or mental health or welfare has been or maybe adversely affected by abuse or neglect shall make such reports as required by law to Children’sProtective Services at 1-800-252-5400. Their website is www.tdprs.state.tx.us.Harassment/Sexual HarassmentStudents should report incidents involving possible harassment, including sexual harassment by otherstudents to their teacher, assistant principal, counselor or the principal. Incidents involving possiblesexual harassment by a staff member should be reported to the principal, assistant principal, assistantsuperintendent or superintendent.PesticidesPesticides are periodically applied indoors. Information on the times and types of applications isavailable upon request at the Maintenance Department at (936) 372-3559.Physical Activity for Students in Elementary & Middle SchoolIn accordance with policies at EHAB, EHAC, EHBG, and FFA, the district will ensure that students in fulldayprekindergarten through grade 5 engage in moderate or vigorous physical activity for at least 30minutes per day or 135 minutes per week. Students in middle or junior high school will engage in 30minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity per day for at least four semesters. For additionalinformation on the district’s requirements and programs regarding elementary, middle, and junior highschool student physical activity requirements, please see the principal.Pledges of Allegiance and a Minute of SilenceEach school day, students will recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge ofAllegiance to the Texas flag. Parents may submit a written request to the principal to excuse their childfrom reciting a pledge. A minute of silence will follow recitation of the pledges. Each student maychoose to reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity so long as the silent activity doesnot interfere with or distract others. Students are required to stand for pledges to the flag and minuteof silence.PrayerEach student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a mannerthat does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not encourage,require, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any schoolactivity.Registered Sex OffendersUpon receiving notification in accordance with state law that a student is currently required to registeras a sex offender, the administration must remove the student from the regular classroom anddetermine appropriate placement unless the court orders JJAEP placement.Page 49 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductIf the student is under any form of court supervision, including probation, community supervision, orparole, the placement shall be in either DAEP or JJAEP for at least one semester. If the student is notunder any form of court supervision, the placement may be in DAEP or JJAEP for one semester or theplacement may be in a regular classroom. The placement may not be in the regular classroom if theboard or its designee determines that the student’s presence:‣ Threatens the safety of other students or teachers,‣ Will be detrimental to the educational process, or‣ Is not in the best interests of the district’s students.School Health Advisory Council (SHAC)Waller ISD’s commitment to a healthy school atmosphere will allow students to make nutritious foodchoices, adopt a daily active lifestyle, and achieve full academic potential and lifelong health. The dutiesof the SHAC range from recommending curriculum to developing strategies for integrating curriculuminto a coordinated school health program encompassing school health services, counseling services, asafe and healthy school environment, recess recommendations, and employee wellness.During the preceding school year, the district’s School Health Advisory Council held 4 meetings.Additional information regarding the district’s School Health Advisory Council is available from thedistrict’s SHAC Coordinator, Lindsey Gray, at lgray@wallerisd.net.Section 504 of the Rehabilitation ActStudents who have been identified with a physical or mental impairment may qualify under Section 504of the Rehabilitation Act to receive accommodations to help the student be successful at school. Eachcampus has a designated 504 Coordinator whom parents may contact by phone or email.Statement of Non-DiscriminationIn our efforts to promote nondiscrimination, Waller ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race,religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, or disability in providing education services, activities, andprograms, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, asamended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of1973, as amended. The following district staff members have been designated to coordinatecompliance with these legal requirements:‣ Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of sex: Troy Mooney,Asst. Superintendent for Administration, Waller ISD, 2214 Waller St., Waller, Texas, 77484, 936-931-3685‣ Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability: DonnaSuggitt, Testing Coordinator, Waller ISD, 2214 Waller St., Waller, Texas, 77484, 936-931-3685‣ All other concerns regarding discrimination: Danny Twardowski, Superintendent, Waller ISD,2214 Waller St., Waller, Texas, 77484, 936-931-3685Suicide AwarenessThe district is committed to partnering with parents to support the healthy mental, emotional, andbehavioral development of its students. If you are concerned about your child, please access thefollowing Web sites or contact the school counselor for more information related to suicide preventionand to find mental health services available in your area:Page 50 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct‣ http://www.texassuicideprevention.org/‣ http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/mhservices-search/Tobacco ProhibitedThe district and its staff strictly enforce prohibitions against the use of tobacco products by students andothers on school property and at school-sponsored and school-related activities.Vending MachinesThe district has adopted policies and implemented procedures to comply with state and federal foodservice guidelines for restricting student access to vending machines. For more information regardingthese policies and guidelines, contact the Food Service Director April Pinkham.Page 51 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductCrisis ManagementAbout Crisis Management ProceduresCrisis Management procedures are reviewed with the staff and crisis team member lists and duties areupdated annually. The District is equipped with classroom emergency kits. The district administrationis involved with several school safety task forces to continually review best practices.Campus EvacuationIf a school and the area around it need to be evacuated, the Superintendent will contact theTransportation Department to make arrangements to take students to a safe location as determined bycentral administration at the time of the emergency.Drills: Fire, Severe Weather, Lockdown and Other EmergenciesFrom time to time, students, teachers, and other district employees will participate in drills ofemergency procedures. During the drill, students should follow the direction of teachers or others incharge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner.Fire/Building EvacuationA fire, gas leak or other chemical/biological hazard inside the building requires building evacuation.LockdownThe Principal or designee will determine whether a situation requires a Lockdown procedure. ALockdown procedure will be used for, but not limited to:‣ Campus Threat by Person(s)‣ Natural Disasters (i.e. tornados, severe weather)‣ Man-made Disasters (i.e. gas leak outside the building, power failure, bio/chemical hazard)When Lockdown is initiated:‣ Teachers or staff members with outside wall classrooms will lock the outside doors andwindows.‣ Teachers or staff members will proceed to the classroom door and look into the hallway. If astudent is in the hallway the teacher will instruct that student to enter the classroomimmediately.‣ Teacher or staff member will lock the classroom door if possible.‣ Teacher or staff member will instruct the students to get into the “protective position” along awall (preferably the wall that has the door): Crouch down on elbows and knees, heads downand hands locked over the head. Close window blinds and turn off the lights.‣ Everyone will remain in the “protective position” until the “ALL CLEAR” is given. NO ONE ISALLOWED TO LEAVE/ENTER THE BUILDING in a Lockdown, except in a weather emergency,when entry may be allowed.Shelter in PlaceA chemical or biological hazard outside the building requires similar procedures as the Lockdown, plus:‣ Teachers/staff members with outside wall classrooms will lock the outside doors and windows.‣ All air conditioning units must be turned off.‣ Students should remain inside the building.‣ For their own safety, parents should stay where they are until authorities provide an “ALLCLEAR”.Page 52 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductReunification, Child PickupFor the students’ safety, some crisis situations may require that the students be kept at the school oralternate shelter with no entry/no dismissal allowed until an “ALL CLEAR” is provided by authorities.This means that parents or guardians might not be able to pick up their student if the situation is toohazardous. If, based on reports from emergency personnel, the danger or threat has passed and thearea is safe for children and parents, then the district/school will identify the location, time andcheckout process for parents to pick up children.Page 53 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductStudent InsuranceWaller ISD does not carry insurance for personal injury or personal property loss or damage. Theschool district offers parents an opportunity to purchase a student accident insurance policy directlyfrom an insurance company. The principal can assist parents with procedures related to studentinsurance, but the school acts only as a service agent, receives no remuneration, and is not responsiblefor the claims resulting from injuries. The school will furnish claim applications for those studentsenrolled in the program who are injured.Page 54 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductAcademic InformationAccreditationAll Waller ISD schools are fully accredited by the Texas Education Agency and Southern Association ofColleges and Schools.Awards (Grades PreK-5 th )At the end of each grading period, kindergarten through fifth grade may attend an awards ceremony.The following are examples of possible awards.‣ Perfect Attendance - Perfect attendance awards will be awarded at the end of each six weeks forstudents with no absences. Perfect attendance awards will be awarded at the end of the year tostudents who have not been absent during the school year.‣ Prompt and Regular Attendance - Prompt and regular attendance awards will be given at theend of the year for students who have no more than two absences during the school year.‣ All A Honor Roll - This is an award for students who received A’s in all subjects, excludinghandwriting.‣ A-B Honor Roll - This is an award for students who received A’s or B’s in all subjects‣ Bulldog Effort Award - This award is given to students who have shown improvement and putforth extra effort during the six weeks.‣ E in Conduct Award - This award is given to students who received an E in conduct for the sixweeks.‣ Outstanding Citizenship Award - Students are given this award based on exemplary behaviorthroughout all aspects of the academic and non-academic school day.Cheating/PlagiarismCheating is defined as giving or receiving and/or using unauthorized information on a test or submittingduplicate work for class or outside assignments. Plagiarism consists of representing another person’sideas or writings as one’s own. Plagiarism will be considered as cheating.Any student involved in an instance of cheating will have their paper taken. The student’s parents will becontacted by the teacher. A discipline consequence may be assigned to a student found guilty ofcheating.College and University AdmissionsFor two school years following his or her graduation, a district student who graduates in the top tenpercent and, in some cases, the top 25 percent, of his or her class is eligible for automatic admission intofour-year public universities and colleges in Texas if the student:‣ Completes the Recommended or Advanced/Distinguished Achievement Program; or‣ Satisfies the ACT College Readiness Benchmarks or earns at least a 1500 out of 2400 on the SAT.In addition, the student must submit a completed application for admission in accordance with thedeadline established by the college or university.The University of Texas at Austin may limit the number of students automatically admitted to 75 percentof the University’s enrollment capacity for incoming resident freshmen. For students who are eligible toenroll in the University of Texas at Austin during the summer or fall term, the University will beadmitting the top nine percent of the high school’s graduating class who meet the above requirements.Additional applicants will be considered by the University through an independent review process.Page 55 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductShould a college or university adopt an admissions policy that automatically accepts the top 25 percentof a graduating class, the provisions above will also apply to a student ranked in the top 25 percent ofhis or her class.College Credit Courses (Dual Credit)Students in grades 9–12 have opportunities to earn college credit through the following methods:‣ Certain courses taught at the high school campus, which may include courses termed dualcredit,‣ Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate (IB);‣ Enrollment in an AP or dual credit course through the Texas Virtual School Network;‣ Enrollment in courses taught in conjunction and in partnership with Lone Star College - Tomball;and‣ Certain CTE courses.All of these methods have eligibility requirements and must be approved prior to enrollment in thecourse. Please see the counselor for more information. Depending on the student’s grade level andthe course, an end-of-course assessment may be required for graduation and, if so, will affect astudent’s final course grade.It is important to keep in mind that not all colleges and universities accept credit earned in all dual creditor AP courses taken in high school for college credit. Students and parents should check with theprospective college or university to determine if a particular course will count toward the student’sdesired degree plan.Course EnrollmentCourse selection and enrollment is made for both semesters at the time of initial registration.Course Offerings and Descriptions BookletThe Course Offerings and Descriptions Booklet describe the courses offered at Waller High School,Waller Junior High School and Schultz Junior High School. It includes related topics such as accelerationalternatives, advanced placement, articulated courses, dual credit, early graduation, gifted/talented,graduation requirements, honor roll, minimum course load, scheduling/changes/withdrawals, studentclassification, transfer of grades, testing information. It is available from the Counseling Center.Course WithdrawalsWhen a student withdraws from a class, the student’s schedule change form will reflect eitherwithdrawal passing or withdrawal failing. If the student is failing a course at the time of withdrawal, thestudent is ineligible to participate in extracurricular activities for the following 6 weeks grading period,but will not count toward eligibility beyond that 6 weeks period.If the student is passing a course at the time of withdrawal, withdrawal passing will be recorded on thetranscript, but the course will not count in the calculation of grade point average.Credit by Exam for Advanced Placement (Grades K-8 th )Students in grades K-8 who meet stringent eligibility requirements and who make at least a 90 in allsubject examinations in reading, writing, mathematics, social studies, and science may skip a grade. Theadvanced placement tests are administered on six designated days during the school year. The parentmust make an application for advanced placement testing by contacting the school counselor 30 daysbefore the test administration date.Page 56 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductCredit by Exam for Advanced Placement (Grades 9 th -12 th )Students are offered opportunities to pass examinations to skip specific courses and to make up creditfor failed courses. See the Course Offerings and Descriptions Booklet for specific requirements.Information on these testing programs is available in the counselor’s office.Daily/Weekly Folder (Grades PreK-5 th )Each child will have a schedule to bring home a folder containing schoolwork, notices, or notes fromteachers. The student’s conduct grade and need for improvement in academics will be indicated. Pleasereview the contents of the folder, sign, date, and it is the student’s responsibility to return the folder thenext school day.Exit-Level ExamRefer to the Standardized Testing topic of this handbook.Final Examination ExemptionsJunior and senior students may be exempt from their final exams provided they meet the followinggrade and attendance requirements. Sophomores and freshmen can be exempt from 3 exams if theymeet the following requirements:‣ An “A” average (90 and above) in a course during the semester, and no more than three (3)excused absences during the semester.‣ A “B” average (80 and above) in a course during the semester, no more than two (2) excusedabsences during the semester.‣ All fines must be paid.‣ No discipline referrals resulting in In School Suspension (ISS), Out of School Suspension (OSS),Saturday Detention, or Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP).‣ No unexcused absences in any class.Grade ReportingReport cards will be mailed each six-weeks grading period. In addition, progress reports, or interimreports to parents, are provided at the mid-point of each grading period to notify parents when astudent is failing or near failing, or has had a significant drop in performance.Students and parents are also provided access to student grades via a password protected parentconnection on the Waller ISD Web Site, and via a telephone information hotline. Both the web parentconnection and the telephone hotline are updated daily with the latest student grade.At the beginning of each school year, parents will be mailed a Password Request Form which they mayuse to request access to the web and telephone grade books. Upon receipt of the Password RequestForm, parents will be mailed student identification numbers, access codes, and instructions on how theymay access student grades using either of these two methods. Parents may also visit the school andrequest the access information in person.Grading Guidelines (Grades PreK-5 th )The six week report card informs the parent and student of the teacher’s evaluation of the student’sgrowth and progress in academics, attitudes, and social conduct. Grades are based upon classroomperformance in relation to standards of achievement for the grade.‣ Key concepts will be evaluated by teacher observation for prekindergarten and kindergarten.‣ No weighting or distinction is made between grades for tests, quizzes, or daily work.‣ A minimum of 10 grades per subject will be entered into the grade book for each six weeks.Page 57 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct‣ Teachers will use professional judgment in determining the appropriate amount of and time forhomework.Honor Roll (Grades 6 th -8 th )Six Weeks - Students making all A’s or all A’s and B’s during a six-week grading period are placed on theSix Weeks Honor Roll.Annual Honor Roll - Students making all A’s for the first 5 six-week grading periods are placed on theAnnual All A Honor Roll. Students making all A/B for the first 5 six-week grading periods are placed onthe Annual A/B Honor Roll.Honor Roll (Grades 9 th -12 th )Six Weeks - Students making all A’s or all A’s and B’s during a six weeks grading period are placed on theSix Weeks Honor Roll.Annual Honor Roll - Determined by the GPA for the current year:‣ A Honor Roll – GPA of 3.75 – up‣ A/B Honor Roll – GPA of 3.50 – 3.74Late WorkLate work will be accepted according to the late work policy posted in the classroom.Major AssignmentsMajor assignments are those representing ongoing work requiring a lengthy period of time to complete.Major assignments will be assigned, due, graded, computed into the final grade and returned during thesame semester. In the event of an excused absence from a class (including participation in a schoolactivity) on a date on which an assignment is due, the assignment or project must be turned inimmediately upon return to school in order to qualify for full credit. For example, if the work is duesecond period, but the student comes to school after second period, the paper still must be turned inthat day for full credit.Make-Up AssignmentsStudents are expected to complete work missed during any absence from class, including extracurricularand co-curricular, and will receive the grades earned. A grace period equal to the number of daysmissed, plus one, is allowed for make-up work. Major assignments are due on the assigned dateregardless of absences.If the student is absent for more than three days, the office should be contacted at the beginning of theschool day to obtain the student’s make-up assignments by the end of the next day.In the event that a student has scheduled a make-up exam date and is absent on that day, the studentshould be prepared upon returning to the class to take the make-up exam.Minimum Course Load (Grades 9 th -12 th )All students are required to enroll in seven classes each semester. Exceptions are:‣ Students enrolled in vocational cooperative training programs must enroll in a minimum of fiveclasses including one vocational training class.‣ Fifth year seniors.Page 59 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductParent-Teacher ConferencesParent-teacher conferences are conducted to develop a better understanding between the home andthe school for the benefit of the child. Parents may schedule a conference by contacting the school orteacher for an appointment. Since teachers are involved with instruction the majority of the day, phonecalls will be returned during their conference time, after school or at their earliest convenience.PE Substitute Changes (Grades 9 th -12 th )A change from athletics, drill team, band, cooperative work programs or cheerleading to physicaleducation or from physical education to athletics, will be treated as a course-level change. A changefrom physical education substitutes to any course other than physical education will be treated as acourse change.Promotion (Grades 1 st -8 th )In grades 1-8, promotion to the next grade level shall be based on an overall average of 70 on a scale of100 based on course-level, grade-level standards (essential knowledge and skills) for all subject areasand a grade of 70 or above in three of the following areas: language arts, mathematics, science, andsocial studies. Students in grades 5 th and 8 th should refer to the Student Success Initiatives.Report Cards (Grades PreK-5 th )A parent must sign, indicating receipt of the report card.Schedule Changes/Dropping Courses (Grades 6 th -8 th )Students making changes are in jeopardy of losing credit in a class if the following guidelines are notfollowed:Elective Courses - A student may leave one course and move to another course (e.g., exit Speech andenroll in Art I) only during the first three weeks of the semester, provided there is space available in thedesired course. They must also complete a schedule change request form and receive permission fromthe counselor. Forms are available from the students’ counselor. Students are responsible for makingup all missed work in the new course.Academic Courses – Before the end of the first six weeks of the semester, a student may exit a coursehe/she is enrolled in and move to another course of the same type (e.g., exit Honors Social Studies andenroll in 8 th grade Social Studies), provided there is space available in the desired course along withteacher conference, parent permission, and counselor approval. The student will take the previousgrade to the new course.After the First Six Weeks - After the first six weeks of each semester, no schedule changes will be madeand the student must remain in the course he/she is enrolled until the end of the semester. If for anyreason an exception is made, students making a change after the first three weeks of a semester maylose credit for that course if it is a high school course.Schedule Changes/Dropping Courses (Grades 9 th -12 th )Students making changes are in jeopardy of losing class credit if the following guidelines are notfollowed:Elective Courses - A student may leave one course and move to another course (e.g., exit Speech andenroll in Art I) only during the first 3 weeks of the semester, provided there is space available in thedesired course. They must also complete a schedule change request form and receive permission fromthe counselor. Forms are available from the student’s counselor. Students are responsible for makingup all missed work in the new course.Page 60 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductAcademic Courses - Before the end of the 3 weeks and before the end of the first six weeks of thesemester, a student may exit a course he/she is enrolled in and move to another course of the sametype (e.g., exit U.S. History AP and enroll in U.S. History), provided there is space available in the desiredcourse along with teacher conference, parent permission, and counselor approval. The student will takethe previous grade to the new course, but will NOT receive the 5.0 points in the case of a Pre-AP or APcourse.Exiting a Course at Semester Change - A student may exit a full year course at the end of the semester,following the same guidelines mentioned above. Requests should be made three weeks before thecurrent semester ends.Semester & Final Exams (Grades 9 th -12 th )The final exam schedule will be set by the campus principal. Semester exams are 75-minutecomprehensive exams. No finals are given prior to the scheduled dates. An administrator may stipulatethat illness, verified by a doctor’s note, or family emergencies are the only acceptable reasons for astudent to be absent from a semester final examination.Senior Information (Grade 12 th )‣ Students who anticipate early graduation must complete all correspondence courses prior tothe end of school and must present confirmation of successful completion of those courses totheir counselor prior to graduation.‣ Caps and gowns will be ordered during the fall of the year of graduation with the cost being paidby the student.‣ Students may purchase graduation invitations made available through a commercial vendorduring their senior year.‣ Transcripts will be furnished to designated colleges through the office of the registrar. The finaltranscript will bear the academic seal earned by a student. A maximum of five officialtranscripts will be sent free of charge to the designated colleges. There will be a small feecharged to send additional official transcripts.‣ All diplomas and official records will reflect the legal name of the student, as required by law.‣ Graduating Rank – Seniors shall be ranked within the graduation class upon the basis ofweighted grade averages for the four-year program, including estimated academic performancethe last six weeks of the senior year. The graduating rank will be calculated at the end of the 5 thsix weeks. Final graduating rank will be completed after graduation for the Superintendent’sTop Ten Scholarship Awards.‣ To be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian honors, a student must have been continuouslyenrolled in the District high school for four semesters preceding graduation. Studentstransferring into the District after class rank for graduation honor purposes has beendetermined will have their standing calculated, but will not replace any student in thegraduation honors ranking.‣ An honor student is one whose rank places them in the top 15 percent of the senior class.Honor students will be those graduating seniors who have accumulated the highest grade-pointaverage in all high school courses through the first semester of the senior year. The top 5percent by rank will graduate Magna Cum Laude, and the next 10 percent will graduate CumLaude. The student with the highest scholastic average will be Valedictorian, and the studentwith the second highest scholastic average will be Salutatorian. These students will graduateSumma Cum Laude.Page 61 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct‣ Graduating seniors are required to attend graduation ceremonies. In order to be eligible toparticipate in the graduation ceremonies, senior students (with the exception of some in SpecialEducation) must:• Have earned required credits and have passed the state-mandated exit test, or beeligible for graduation on the basis of an ARD decision.• Be in compliance with the Student Code of Conduct and be in good standing accordingto the requirements of this code. Students who are in DAEP will not be allowed toparticipate in the graduation ceremony.• Have met all financial commitments to the school.• Be in compliance with the grooming code as well as any additional dress requirementsestablished by the principal for the graduation ceremony.‣ Seniors are subject to removal from the graduation ceremony for inappropriate behavior. If astudent misbehaves, they may be removed from the ceremony and/or required to attend aconference with the school principal to obtain their diploma.Student Classification (Grades 9 th -12 th )Students are only reclassified in August unless they are moving up to senior status their graduation year.The number of credits a student must earn prior to the beginning of the school year to attain a specificgrade-level status are:‣ Entered High School in 2007-2008 and after:• 6 Plus 9 th grade Math and English – Sophomore• 12 – Junior• 19 – SeniorStudent Success Initiative (Grades 5 th & 8 th )All subjects tested at each grade level are equally important to the campus and district; however, fifthand eighth grade students will take STAAR reading and mathematics to determine promotion to thesixth or ninth grade. The Grade Placement Committee will determine whether retention or promotion isappropriate.TestingRefer to Standardized Testing page in this handbook.Transfer of Grades (Grades PreK-5 th )Students enrolling in a Waller ISD school after the beginning of a grading period may receive six weekgrades in which the grades received from the sending school will be weighted proportionate to the timespent there. If grades are unavailable from the previous school, students will receive grades awarded byWaller ISD for the six week period only if they are in attendance at a Waller ISD school at least one-halfof the grading period.Transfer of Grades (Grades 6 th -12 th )Students transferring into the district with letter grades on their transcripts will have their gradesconverted to the following numerical equivalents. Grades from sending schools will be weightedproportionately to the time spent in that school.‣ A = 95‣ B = 85‣ C = 77‣ D = 72‣ F = 65Page 62 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductTutoringTutoring is available either before or after school on most weekdays. Students should check with theirteacher to determine their tutorial schedule.Page 63 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductStandardized TestingAbout Standardized TestingDear Parent/Guardian:The 2012-2013 school year continues standardized testing in the State of Texas and Waller ISD in grades3 rd -12 th . Students in grades 3 through 10 who are eligible to take STAAR will test in the spring of 2013.Students in grade 11 will continue to take TAKS to meet graduation requirements. Twelfth gradestudents will continue with TAKS testing with retest opportunities for Exit-level in October, March, April,and July.The following chart outlines the testing program and exams that will be given at each grade level andthe month(s) it will be administered:Grade Program Exams Month(s)3 rd STAAR Reading and Mathematics April4 th STAAR Writing, Mathematics and Reading April5 th STAAR Reading*, Mathematics*, and Science April, May, June6 th STAAR Mathematics and Reading April7 th STAAR Writing, Mathematics, and Reading April8 th STAAR Reading*, Mathematics*, Science, and Social Studies April, May, June9 th STAAREOC English I Reading, EOC English I Writing, EOC Algebra I or December, April,EOC Geometry**, EOC Biology, and EOC World Geography***May, July10 th STAAREnglish II Reading, English II Writing, World History, Chemistry, December, April,Geometry or Algebra II ***May, July11 th TAKSExit-Level Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, andScience***March, April, July12 th TAKSRetest Exit-Level Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, October, March,and Science***April and JulyAll subjects tested at each grade level are equally important to the campus and district; however, fifthand eighth grade students will take STAAR reading and mathematics to determine promotion to thesixth grade or ninth grade. Students who do not take STAAR/TAKS as determined by their ARDcommittee will be administered a state approved alternate assessment which includes either TAKS-Accommodated, STAAR/TAKS-Modified, or STAAR-Alternate.Additional information along with study guides is available on the Texas Education Agency website atwww.tea.state.tx.us or by contacting the principal at your child’s home campus.Sincerely,Danny TwardowskiWaller ISD Superintendent*required for promotion to 6 th and 9 th grade**for students who successfully completed Algebra I in 8 thGeometry;***required for graduationgrade and are currently enrolled inPage 64 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductSTAAR - State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness – (Grades 3 rd -8 th )In addition to routine tests and other measures of achievement, students at certain grade levels willtake state-mandated assessments, such as the STAAR, in the following subjects:‣ Mathematics, annually in grades 3–8‣ Reading, annually in grades 3–8‣ Writing, including spelling and grammar, in grades 4 and 7‣ Science in grades 5 and 8‣ Social Studies in grade 8Successful performance on the reading and math assessments in grades 5 and 8 is required by law inorder for the student to be promoted to the next grade level. For the 2011–2012 school year only, thisrequirement will be waived.STAAR Modified and STAAR Alternate, for students receiving special education services, will be availablefor eligible students, as determined by the student’s ARD committee.STAAR-L is a linguistically accommodated assessment that is available for certain limited Englishproficient (LEP) students, as determined by the student’s Language Proficiency Assessment Committee(LPAC).End-of-Course (EOC) Assessments for Students in Grades 9–12: Beginning with ninth graders in the2011–2012 school year, end-of-course (EOC) assessments will be administered for the following courses:‣ Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II‣ English I, English II, and English III‣ Biology, Chemistry, and Physics‣ World Geography, World History, and United States HistorySatisfactory performance on the applicable assessments will be required for graduation and will alsoaffect the plan under which the student may graduate.Normally, there will be three testing windows during the year in which a student may take an EOCassessment, which will occur during the fall, spring, and summer months.In each content area (English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies), a student mustachieve a cumulative score. To determine whether the student meets the cumulative score, thestudent’s EOC assessment scores in each content area will be added together. If the student’s totalscore on the assessments within the content area is not equal to or greater than the cumulative scoreset by TEA, the student may retake any of the assessments in that content area until the studentachieves the cumulative score. A student who does not achieve the minimum required score on anyindividual assessment will be required to retake that assessment.A student may choose to retake an EOC assessment in situations other than those listed above as well.STAAR Modified and STAAR Alternate, for students receiving special education services, will be availablefor eligible students, as determined by the student’s ARD committee. These particular EOC assessmentsmay have different testing windows than the general assessments, and the ARD committee willdetermine whether successful performance on the assessments will be required for graduation.STAAR-L, which is a linguistically accommodated assessment, will be available for students who havebeen determined to be limited English proficient (LEP) and who require this type of testingaccommodation.Page 65 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductAdditional information will be provided to students and parents prior to the spring 2012administrations.TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills)TAKS is a state-mandated assessment currently being transitioned to the STAAR program. However,depending on the grade level of the student, TAKS may still be administered to a student.For a student in grade 11 during the 2012–2013 school year, the student will be assessed with TAKS inthe subject areas of mathematics, English/language arts, social studies, and science. The test at grade11 is called “exit-level” TAKS, and satisfactory performance on this test is required for graduation.TAKS-Accommodated and TAKS-Modified, for students receiving special education services, will beavailable for eligible students, as determined by the ARD Committee. The ARD Committee willdetermine whether successful performance on the assessments will be required for graduation.Page 66 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductSpecial ProgramsAbout Special ProgramsThe district provides special programs for gifted and talented students, homeless students, bilingualstudents, migrant students, students with limited English proficiency, dyslexic students, and studentswith disabilities. The coordinator of each program can answer questions about eligibility requirements,as well as programs and services offered in the district or by other organizations. A student or parentwith questions about these programs should contact the campus Principal.Bilingual Education (PreK-5 th )Bilingual education is provided for children in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade whose first languageis not English and who meet eligibility criteria for the program. Regular instruction is conducted in bothSpanish and English.Dyslexia ProgramStudents who have been identified with characteristics of dyslexia will be served by the dyslexiaprogram at their home campus. Contact Donna Suggitt at 936-931-3685 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30p.m. for additional information.ESL (PreK-12 th )English as a Second Language (ESL) classes are offered for students who speak a second language andqualify based on results of Oral, Reading and Language Arts assessments. Instruction is provided inEnglish by ESL teachers who are trained in second language acquisition strategies.ESOL (Grades 9 th -12 th )English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes are offered for high school students who areimmigrants and are learning to speak English. These students qualify based on fluency results from anoral language proficiency assessment. Instruction is provided in English by certified ESL teachers whoare trained in sheltered instruction strategies. ESOL classes are offered for English I and English II.Students in grades 11 and 12 are provided with instructional modifications for English III and IV.Fee Paid Summer School (Grades 9 th -12 th )High School students may attend fee paid summer school to accelerate credit in selected courses.Gifted & Talented ProgramThe Waller ISD Discovery program serves students in 2nd – 12th grade who have been screened, tested,and identified as gifted and talented. Some campuses also serve K and 1 st grade students who showpotential for giftedness. Teachers, parents, other Waller ISD professional staff, and community membersmay nominate students during the spring semester. If screening indicates potential, students are testedand evaluated for one or more indicators of giftedness. Annual identification is completed by the end ofthe 1st week in May. Transfer GT students are admitted if qualifying standards from sending districtsequal or exceed those of Waller ISD. New students entering WISD in the fall may be nominated,screened, and tested for immediate admission into the program.KindergartenThe all-day kindergarten program provides the basic learning foundation that will aid childrenthroughout their education. Activities and curriculum materials are provided to give each child a solidPage 67 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conductfoundation in the areas of intellectual, social, creative and emotional development, oral language,reading, mathematics, and physical development.Pre-KindergartenHalf-day pre-kindergarten instruction is provided for children who are 4 years old by September 1 st andwho met the qualifications set by the State of Texas.Special ServicesSpecial Services provides options and requirements for providing assistance to students who havelearning difficulties or who need or may need special education.If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the Special Services Department at(936) 931-9146 to learn about the district’s overall general education referral or screening system forsupport services. This system links students to a variety of support options, including referral for aspecial education evaluation. Students having difficulty in the regular classroom should be consideredfor tutorial, compensatory, and other academic or behavior support services that are available to allstudents.Waller ISD has created a Response to Intervention model to assist students who may be strugglingacademically and behaviorally in school. This is a 3-tier process which may or may not evolve to areferral to Section 504 or Special Education. Parents/Guardians are contacted by school personnel tomake them aware of the needs of their son/daughter before the process begins. In this 3-tier process,teams of knowledgeable persons for the student in need meet to gather information to set appropriateclassroom and/or testing accommodations. Periodic meetings are held to review the progress of thestudent to determine if the next level of intervention is needed. Each campus has a designatedcoordinator who may be reached through the campus office of your son/daughter. You may alsocontact the district coordinator Donna Suggitt at 936-931-3685 or special education director Jamie Birdat 936-931-9146 if you need additional information.At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for special education services. Within areasonable amount of time, the district must decide if the evaluation is needed. If evaluation is needed,the parent will be notified and asked to provide consent for the evaluation. The district must completethe evaluation and the report within 60 calendar days of the date of the written consent. The districtshall give a copy of the report to the parent.If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the district will provide the parent with awritten notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice will include astatement that informs the parent of his or her rights if the parent disagrees with the district.Additionally, the parent will receive a copy of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards - Rights of Parents ofStudents with Disabilities.The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or areferral for evaluation for special education is the child’s counselor, building principal, or the SpecialServices Department at (936) 931-9146.If a student is receiving special education services at a campus outside his or her attendance zone, theparent or guardian may request that any other student residing in the household be transferred to thesame campus, if the appropriate grade level for the transferring student is offered on that campus.Page 68 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductWaller ISD will not provide transportation to the transferring student. The student receiving the specialeducation services will still be entitled to transportation.Summer Program (Grades Pre-K-12 th )Summer program is offered in Waller ISD for students in grades Pre-K – 12th. Each is a 4-week 5-dayprogram.‣ Students identified to attend the Summer Program are required to attend. Summerremediation will focus on reading and math.‣ Students who have not passed the required STAAR tests (5th or 8th grade reading and/ormathematics) – are required to attend additional instruction in the summer prior to retaking thetests in mid-summer.‣ Bilingual/ESL Summer Program is offered to students who need additional support withlanguage, reading, and academic skills.‣ Credit Recovery Program is available for identified students at the high school level in theSummer Program.Title ProgramsThe Title program provides supplemental academic services for students at-risk of falling behind or notgraduating. Title program reinforces and accelerates what the classroom teacher is teaching under staterequirements.Page 69 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductStudent Drug Testing ProgramStudent Drug Testing Program RationaleThe District has determined that the use or misuse of illegal drugs, performance-enhancing drugs,and/or alcohol among students in grades 7-12 is a problem within the schools and community.Information gathered from the student body and from other reliable sources within the communitywould indicate that such use is prevalent within all segments of the student population, including thosewho participate in competitive afterschool extracurricular activities and those who drive to school. TheDistrict has determined a need to implement a program of random testing of students in grades 7-12 asa condition of their participation in competitive afterschool extracurricular activities and/or as acondition of obtaining/maintaining a permit to park on campus. This provision became effective August1, 2006.ObjectivesThe drug-testing program shall not be designed as a punitive measure with the intent of identifying andpunishing those who may use illegal drugs, performance-enhancing drugs, and/or alcohol. Rather, thefollowing objectives shall serve as the foundation for the program.‣ To ensure the health and safety of all students who represent the District in any competitiveafterschool extracurricular activities and students who desire parking permit privileges;‣ To serve as a deterrent to the use of illegal drugs, performance-enhancing drugs, and/or alcoholamong the student body;‣ To offer students a credible means to resist peer pressure as it relates to the use of illegal drugs,performance-enhancing drugs, and/or alcohol;‣ To provide a ready resource for support and assistance to any student who may be using illegaldrugs, performance-enhancing drugs, and/or alcohol.ApplicabilityThis policy shall apply to all District students in grades 7-12 as a condition of participation in anycompetitive afterschool extracurricular activities and/or as a condition of obtaining/maintaining apermit to park on campus.Student and Parent ConsentBefore a student may be allowed to participate in any competitive afterschool extracurricular activitiesand/or obtain/maintain a permit to park on campus, the student and the parent and/or personotherwise in lawful control of the student must present written consent to the testing. The failure toprovide consent will result in the student not being eligible to participate in afterschool extracurricularactivities and/or to hold a parking permit.Testing RequirementsAll students in grades 7-12 who intend to participate in competitive afterschool extracurricular activitiesand/or obtain/maintain a permit to park on campus during the course of the school year are subject torandom drug testing. This pool of students shall be subject to random drug testing at a frequency and ata rate to be determined by the school administration.Testing Procedures and ProtocolsThe District shall contract for drug-screening services through an independent laboratory that has metall standards for certification as established by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health ServicesAdministration (SAMHSA), and all testing shall be conducted by qualified laboratory personnel inaccordance with accepted practices and procedures established by the contracted laboratory. TestingPage 70 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conductshall be accomplished by urinalysis using accepted immunological screening procedures; chain ofcustody documentation shall be maintained throughout the collection and testing processes.Any specimens that test positive shall be confirmed by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry(GC/MS) testing or other acceptable methodology. All initial screening shall be performed at Districtexpense.The vendor with whom the District contracts for drug-testing shall provide the services of a medicalreview officer (MRO) who is certified by the Medical Review Officer Certification Council or by theAmerican Association of Medical Review Officers as having proven by examination to have theappropriate medical training to properly interpret and evaluate the results of any drug testingauthorized by the District. The MRO shall, as well, agree to abide by the procedures established by theDistrict for the evaluation and timely reporting of any positive tests.In the case of a confirmed positive test, the MRO or an authorized representative shall contact theparent or person otherwise in lawful control of the student within one school day of having the results.Upon verification of a positive test, the MRO or representative shall report the result to theSuperintendent or designee within one school day after confirmation with the parent or personotherwise responsible for the student.ConfidentialityThe collection and coding of specimen samples shall be executed in a manner that ensures properidentification and confidentiality, to the extent permitted by law.Test results shall be made known to the Superintendent or designee, the student, and the parent orperson otherwise in lawful control of the student. All other parties involved in case of a confirmedpositive test shall be notified only with respect to the level of the offense.Unless required by law, test results shall be released only upon written request of a parent or personotherwise in lawful control of the student or to a student who is of legal age. Test results shall bedestroyed as permitted by law.The vendor, laboratory, and MRO shall be prohibited from releasing any statistical information relatingto the nature or rate of any positive tests that result from the testing program to any person,organization, news publication, the media, or any other third party. The vendor shall, however, providethe District with a report, at least once a semester, that includes the number of tests performed duringthe specified period, the rate of both positive and negative results, and a list of the substances identifiedfrom any positive specimens.Screening ParametersFor purposes of this policy, the term drug shall be defined as any substance considered illegal orimpermissible by federal law, local policy and/or Texas law or as defined by the United States Food andDrug Administration, including but not limited to the following:‣ Amphetamines/methamphetamines (speed, uppers, diet pills)‣ Barbiturates (downers, sleeping pills)‣ Benzodiazepines (Valium, Librium)‣ Cannabinoid (marijuana)‣ Cocaine metabolite‣ Ethanol (alcohol)Page 71 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct‣ Xanax‣ Methadone‣ Opiates (heroin, morphine, codeine)‣ Phencyclidine (PCP, angel dust)‣ Propoxyphene (Darvon)‣ Steroids (performance-enhancing drugsSteroidsState law prohibits students from possessing, dispensing, delivering, or administering an anabolicsteroid. Anabolic steroids are for medical use only, and only a physician can prescribe use. Bodybuilding, muscle enhancement, or the increase of muscle bulk or strength through the use of an anabolicsteroid or human growth hormone by a healthy student is not a valid medical use and is a criminaloffense.Students participating in UIL athletic competition may be subject to random steroid testing. Moreinformation on the UIL testing program may be found on the UIL Web siteat http://www.uil.utexas.edu/athletics/health/steroid_information.html.The District shall reserve the right to test for any and all illegal or controlled substances as determined atthe discretion of the District.Withdrawal from ProgramIf a student wishes to withdrawal from the program it must be in writing from the parent. A studentmust re-enter as the same status as when they withdrew.Sanctions – First OffenseFor a first positive test result during a random screening, the following consequences shall be imposed:Notification - The student, parent, or person otherwise in lawful control of the student shall be notifiedby the vendor/MRO to determine whether there is an alternative medical or other acceptableexplanation for the positive test result. If not, the positive result shall stand. If it stands, the vendor willcontact the district representative.Conferencing - The student and parent or person otherwise in lawful control of the student shall begiven an opportunity to participate in a conference with the principal or designee and any sponsorsdeemed appropriate to discuss the conditions for continued participation in competitive afterschoolextracurricular practices, performances, competitions, and activities and/or parking permit privileges.Counseling - The student shall be required to participate in a District-provided student counselingprogram or show proof of external counseling.Extracurricular Activities - There will also be a conference with the student, his/her parent, the personresponsible for administering the extracurricular activity the student participates in and a campusadministrator. The student will subsequently agree to be tested for one calendar year.Sanctions – Second OffenseFor a second positive test result during a screening, the following consequences shall be imposed:Notification - The student, parent, or person otherwise in lawful control of the student, and theprincipal or designee shall be promptly notified by the vendor/MRO to determine whether there is anPage 72 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conductalternative medical explanation for the positive test result. If not, the positive result shall stand. If itstands, the vendor will contact the district representative.Conferencing – The student and parent or person otherwise in lawful control for the student shall begiven an opportunity to participate in a conference with the principal or designee, and any sponsorsdeemed appropriate to discuss the conditions for continued participation in competitive afterschoolextracurricular practices, performances, competitions, and activities and/or parking permit privileges.Counseling – The student shall be required to participate in a District-provided counseling program orshow proof of external counseling.Suspension – The student testing positive for a second time in a screening shall be suspended from allcompetitive afterschool extracurricular games, performances, competitions, and/or activities and/orparking permit privileges for 15 school days. Students testing positive are still permitted, at the coach’sdiscretion, to attend practice. During this period, the student shall undergo drug testing each month forone calendar year. If the results of these tests are negative, the student shall be eligible to practice andparticipate in performances, competitions, and/or activities and/or resume parking permit privileges onthe Monday following the end of the 15 school day period.Sanctions – Third and Subsequent OffensesNotification - The student, parent, or person otherwise in lawful control of the student, and theprincipal or designee shall be notified by the vendor/MRO to determine whether there is an alternativemedical explanation for the positive test result. If not, the positive result shall stand. If it stands, thevendor will contact the district representative.Conferencing - The student and parent or person otherwise in lawful control of the student shall begiven an opportunity to participate in a conference with the principal or designee and any sponsorsdeemed appropriate to discuss the conditions for continued participation in competitive afterschoolextracurricular practices, performances, competitions, and/or activities and/or parking permit privileges.Counseling - The student shall be required to participate in a District-provided student counselingprogram or show proof of external counseling.Suspension - The student testing positive for the third and subsequent time in a screening shall besuspended from all competitive afterschool extracurricular activities and/or parking permit privileges fora period of one calendar year from the date of the confirmation of the third and subsequent positivetest.MiscellaneousFailure or Refusal to Submit to Drug-Testing - Any student identified for random testing on a given datebut who because of illness or any other legitimate reason, leaves school before the test is performedshall be included in the next random screen. Refusal on the part of any student to participate in ascheduled or random drug test shall be considered ineligible to participate in afterschool extracurricularactivities and/or for a parking permit.Student Support Services - The District shall support and assist any student who may desire toparticipate in a District-provided student assistance or counseling program. The District shall alsoprovide information regarding external agencies that provide substance abuse education or counselingupon request. Any cost of such external services, however, shall be the responsibility of the studentand/or parent or person otherwise in lawful control of the student.Page 73 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductSuspension - For purposes of this policy, any suspension from competitive afterschool extracurricularactivities and/or parking permit privileges that is not completed during the course of the school yearshall be extended to the following year. During the period of a suspension, the student involved incompetitive afterschool extracurricular activities is permitted to attend practice at the coach’sdiscretion, even though participation is not permitted.Appeals Procedure - Should a student and/or parent or person otherwise in lawful control of thestudent elect to appeal a positive test result, the second half of the specimen in question may be testedby a laboratory mutually agreed upon by the student/parent and District at the student/parent’sexpense. Positive specimens are kept by vendor for 12 months. A written request to appeal a positivetest result may be submitted to the Superintendent or designee within three days of receiving oralnotice from the MRO/vendor of the results. Retesting must be completed within 7 calendar days. Anappeal does not negate the implementation of the policy.A student and/or parent or person otherwise in lawful control of the student may appeal a suspensionunder this policy to the Superintendent’s designee by filing a written complaint according to theprovisions and time lines as set forth in Board Policy FNG(LOCAL) as related to Student and ParentComplaints.Page 74 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductStudent Code of ConductOverviewThis Student Code of Conduct lists unacceptable behavior and the consequences that may apply. Thissection lists the Texas Education Code Chapter 37 governed situations:‣ when a student may be removed from a classroom, campus, or alternative education program,‣ conditions that authorize or require an administrator to place a student in a disciplinaryalternative education program (DAEP), and‣ conditions under which a student may be or must be expelled from school to a juvenile justicealternative education program (JJAEP).Teachers and school administrators consider “intent” and “self-defense”, if applicable, when assigningpunishment for Student Code of Conduct violations. Students enrolling in Waller ISD may be placed inDAEP as assigned by the previous school.Board Policy and state or federal codes are referenced when applicable for convenience. Minoroffenses listed for which there is no specific policy, legal or regulatory reference are subject to thegeneral authority of the board under Board Policy FO(LEGAL).Waller ISD identifies the following four classes of discipline offenses and consequences.Level IV Offenses – Most Serious OffensesLevel IV offenses are the most serious and require mandatory expulsion and assignment to the JuvenileJustice Alternative Education Program (JJAEP) for students age 10 and over.Level IV offenses are:1. Using, exhibiting, or possessing a firearm as defined in Section 46.01(3), Penal Code; anillegal knife as defined in Section 46.01(6), Penal Code; a club as defined by Section 46.01(1),Penal Code or a prohibited weapon as defined in Section 46.05, Penal Code.2. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of aggravated assault asdefined in Section 22.02, Penal Code; sexual assault as defined in Section 22.011, Penalcode; aggravated sexual assault as defined in Section 22.021, Penal Code.3. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of arson under Section 28.02,Penal Code.4. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of murder as defined in Section. 19.02,Penal Code; capital murder as defined in Section 19.03, Penal Code; criminal attempt tocommit murder or capital murder as defined in Section 15.01, Penal Code.5. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of indecency with a child as defined inSection 21.11, Penal Code.6. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of aggravated kidnapping as defined inSection 20.04, Penal Code.7. Selling, giving, delivering, possessing, using, or under the influence of an alcoholic beverageas defined by Section 1.04, Alcoholic Beverage Code and/or committing a serious act oroffense while under the influence of alcohol if the conduct is punishable as a felony, orcommitting a non-felony alcohol offense a second time within the same school year.Page 75 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct8. Selling, giving, delivering, possessing, using or under the influence of marijuana or acontrolled substance, if punishable as a felony as defined in TEC 37.007 (a)(3) orcommitting a non-felony drug offense a second time within the same school year.9. Engaging in serious misbehavior while the student has been placed in an AlternativeEducation Program.10. Engaging in conduct on or off school property that contains the elements of any of theoffenses in this section against any staff member in retaliation of or as a result of theemployee’s employment with a school district.11. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of criminal mischief underSection 28.03, Penal Code, if the offense is punishable as a felony under that section.12. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of aggravated robbery.13. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of manslaughter.14. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of criminally-negligenthomicide.15. Possessing a firearm, as defined by Title 18 United States Code (U.S.C.) Section 921.16. Inappropriate displays of affections.Level IV ConsequencesStudents 10 years and older participating in a Level IV offense of the most serious discipline offensesshall be expelled for up to one year if the student committed the offense on school property or whileattending a school sponsored or school related activity on or off school property. Students under theage of 10 participating in #1-14 of the most serious discipline offenses shall be placed in the DisciplinaryAlternative Education Program for up to one calendar year. All students found to possess a firearm shallbe expelled regardless of age as required by federal law. Commitment of any of these offenses must bereported to law enforcement. Students may be assigned to the DAEP for more than one year if theirattendance at school would cause a disruption of the normal school day or they are considered a threatto the safety of other students.Level III Offenses – Serious OffensesLevel III offenses are serious offenses and require mandatory removal to a disciplinary alternativeeducation program or discretionary removal to Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program (JJAEP)Placement.Level III offenses are:1. Engaging in any conduct punishable as a felony, other than the Level IV Offenses, while onschool property, within 300 feet of school property, or while attending a school sponsored orschool related activity on or off school property.2. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of assault as defined in Section22.01(a)(1), (2), (3) Penal Code.3. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of a terroristic threat as defined in Section22.07, Penal Code.4. First time, selling, giving, delivering, possessing, using or under the influence of an alcoholicbeverage as defined in Section 1.04 Alcoholic Beverage Code; or committing a serious act oroffense while under the influence of alcohol, if the offense is not punishable as a felony.5. Selling, giving, delivering, possessing, using or under the influence of marijuana or a controlledsubstance as defined by Chapter 481, et seq of the Texas Health and Safety Code, or by 21United States Code (U.S.C.) Section 801 et seq, a dangerous drug, as defined by Chapter 483 etseq Texas Health and Safety Code.Page 76 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct6. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of an offense related to abusable glue or aerosolpaint as defined in Section 485.031-485.035 of the Texas Health and Safety Code or relating tovolatile chemicals as defined in Chapter 484 of the Texas Health and Safety Code.7. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of public lewdness under Section21.07 of the Penal Code or conduct identified as sexual harassment of a student or staffmember.8. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of indecent exposure as definedin Section 21.08 of the Penal Code.9. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of retaliation against any schoolemployee as defined in Section 36.06 of the Penal Code.10. Engaging in conduct occurring off campus and while the student is not in attendance at a schoolsponsored or school related activity if:a. The student receives deferred prosecution under Section 53.03, Family Code, forconduct defined as a felony offense in Title 5, Penal Code; orb. A court or jury finds that the student has engaged in delinquent conduct under Section54.03, Family Code, for conduct defined as a felony offense orc. The superintendent or the superintendent’s designee has a reasonable belief that thestudent has engaged in a conduct defined as a felony offense in Title 5, Penal Code.11. Engaging in conduct defined as a felony offense on or off campus and while the student is not inattendance at a school-sponsored or school related activity if:a. The superintendent or the superintendent’s designee has a reasonable belief that thestudent has engaged in conduct defined as a felony offense other than those defined inTitle 5, Penal Code.b. The continued presence of the student in the regular classroom threatens the safety ofother students or teachers or will be detrimental to the educational process.12. Engage in conduct involving a public school that contains the elements of the offense of falsealarm under Section 42.06 of the Texas Penal Code.13. First time possession of prescription drugs. Texas Education Code Chapter 3714. Engaging in any of the conduct listed as a Level IV Offense (Most Serious) when the student isyounger than 10 years of age.15. Communicating a threat to a staff member.Level III ConsequencesStudents participating in Serious Discipline Offenses shall be removed to the Disciplinary AlternativeEducation Program and a ticket may be issued to the student. The length of removal will depend on theoffense and the circumstances under which it was committed. Students placed in the DisciplinaryAlternative Education Program may not attend or participate in any school sponsored or school relatedactivity. Students age 10 years and older participating in a second Serious Offense or other violations ofthe Student Code of Conduct may be expelled.Level II Offenses – Significant OffensesLevel II offenses are significant offenses and require discretionary removal to a disciplinary alternativeeducation program. Level II offenses are:1. Possessing or using drug paraphernalia, as drug paraphernalia is defined by the Texas ControlledSubstance Act (Article 4476-15, Vernon’s Texas Civil Statutes).2. Selling, distributing, possessing or using substances or items portrayed as being drugs (withoutregard to amount), drug paraphernalia or alcohol.3. Using or possessing any instrument, including, but not limited to, any weapon, knife or gunwhich does not fit the Penal Code definition under Most Serious Offenses (examples: pocketPage 77 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conductknife or fake gun), fireworks, ammunition, and instruments of the martial arts that mightreasonably cause bodily harm, but has not been used as a threat or bodily harm.4. Communicating threat of false alarm of bomb, fire, explosion or other incendiary device, orpoison.5. Calling for emergency assistance (911) or setting off an alarm when no emergency exists.Texas Penal Code 42.0616. Extorting or attempting extortion through use of threat or force.7. Committing theft, robbery or burglary or attempting to commit such act. Board PolicyGRA(EXHIBIT)8. Committing sexual acts which do not qualify as public lewdness or indecent exposure.9. Tampering with, changing or altering records or documents of the District by any method,including, but not limited to, computer access or other electronic means. Board PolicyCQ(LEGAL) & CQ(LOCAL)10. Damaging and/or destroying and/or altering school computer hardware and/or software by anymethod including, but not limited to, the use of computer software viruses or other electronicmeans. Board Policy FNCB(LEGAL)11. Planning and/or organizing and/or instigating and/or participating in an activity that causessubstantial disruption of the education program, including but not limited to, gang/cult activity,“Hit” lists, “Bullying” or possession or distribution of pornography through any means. BoardPolicy FNCI(LEGAL)12. Vandalizing property, including, but not limited to, cutting, defacing, or in any way damagingproperty belonging to the District, its staff, visitors or other students. Board Policy FNCB(LEGAL)13. Fighting.14. Inappropriately using instructional materials including computers and computer systems. BoardPolicy CQ(LOCAL)15. Any form of Harassment. Board Policy FFH(LOCAL)Level II ConsequencesStudents participating in a significant discipline offense may be assigned to the Disciplinary AlternativeEducation Program and/or suspended for up to three days and/or assigned to In-School Suspension(ISS/Time Out) for more than 10 days and up to the remainder of the school year. If the misconductoccurred during the last six weeks of the school year, the student may be placed in In-SchoolSuspension/DAEP at the beginning of the next school year.A second Significant Discipline Offense or succeeding violations of the Student Code of Conduct maylead to expulsion for students age 10 and older. Students participating in fighting or other offenses maybe issued a ticket as well as other disciplinary alternatives.Level I OffensesLevel I offenses are other offenses including:1. Use, possession by a student or distribution of tobacco products and/or tobacco paraphernalia.Texas Education Code 38.006, Board Policy FNCD(LEGAL)2. Disruption of school activities. Board Policy FNCI(LEGAL)3. Hazing. Board Policy FNCC(LEGAL)4. Lying or giving of false information either verbally or in writing to a school staff member.5. Defiance of authority of the teacher, principal, bus driver, supervisor or other school staffmember.6. Disrespect of a staff member.7. Throwing objects out of buses or at activities such as athletic events.Page 78 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct8. Disrupts, prevents, or interferes with the lawful transportation of students to and from school oractivities sponsored by a school on a vehicle owned and/or operated by the District shall beguilty of a misdemeanor. Board Policy CNA(LEGAL)9. Directing profanity, vulgar language or obscene gestures toward other students or schoolpersonnel. Board Policy GKA(LEGAL)10. Engaging in verbal abuse, i.e., name-calling, ethnic or racial slurs or derogatory statementsaddressed publicly to others that may disrupt the school program or incite violence.11. Gambling. Board Policy GRA(EXHIBIT)12. Tardiness, truancy, or leaving campus without permission. Board Policy FEA(LEGAL)13. Littering of school grounds.14. Trespassing. Board Policy GKA(LEGAL)15. Unauthorized use of a paging device or an electronic communications device.16. Dress code violations. Board Policy FNCA(LOCAL)17. Behavior symptomatic of or associated with gangs or cults. Board Policy GRA(EXHIBIT) andFNCC(LEGAL)18. Being on any campus without permission other than your assigned campus.19. Not wearing your school issued identification badge.20. Use, possession of caffeine pills or energy drinks.21. Inappropriate use or possession of over the counter medication.Level I ConsequencesStudents participating in a first-time Level I offense may receive any of the discipline managementtechniques appropriate for the situation as determined by a school administrator, including, but notlimited to, detention hall, lunch detention or assignment to ISS/Time Out. A second Level I offense mayresult in suspension for up to three days, an additional assignment to In-School Suspension (ISS/TimeOut) up to the remainder of the semester, unless the misconduct occurred during the last six weeks ofthe semester, in which case the student may be considered for assignment to an In-School Suspensionat the beginning of the next year. Repeated offenses may ultimately result in assignment to theDisciplinary Alternative Education Program or expulsion for students age 10 and older. Students guiltyof possession or use of tobacco will be issued a ticket.Other Offenses Not SpecifiedOther misconduct not specified in this Student Code of Conduct may be dealt with by any appropriatediscipline management technique(s) or assignment to an Alternative Education Program, dependingupon the nature of the misconduct. Disciplinary action for students in special programs will beconducted in accordance with individual service plans and board policy.Page 79 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductConduct InformationAlcohol/DrugsPossession, use, and delivery of any alcohol or drugs are strictly prohibited, no matter how small thequantity. Some students believe that if their blood alcohol level is not over the criminal level, that schoolsanctions do not apply. This is not correct. Class C tickets for minors in possession of alcohol and/ordrugs on school property may be issued by the Harris County Sheriff’s Department. School discipline willbe applied if any amount of drugs or alcohol is used or possessed at school, at a school-related event, orprior to coming to school or school-related event.BullyingBullying is when a student or group of students engages in written or oral verbal expression, expressionthrough electronic means, or physical conduct that occurs on school property, at a school-sponsored orschool-related activity, or in a vehicle operated by the district and a school district’s board of trustees orthe board’s designee determines that the behavior:‣ Has the effect or will have the effect of physically harming a student, damaging a student’sproperty, or placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or of damageto the student’s property; or‣ Is sufficiently severe, persistent, and pervasive enough that the action or threat creates anintimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for a student.This conduct is considered bullying if it:‣ Exploits an imbalance of power between the student perpetrator who is engaging in bullyingand the student victim through written or verbal expression or physical conduct; and‣ Interferes with a student’s education or substantially disrupts the operation of a school.Consult with district administrators if your child has been determined by the district to have engaged inbullying and the district decides to transfer your child to another campus. Transportation is notprovided in this circumstance.Child Sexual AbuseThe district has established a plan for addressing child sexual abuse. As a parent, it is important for youto be aware of warning signs that could indicate a child may have been or is being sexually abused.Sexual abuse in the Texas Family Code is defined as any sexual conduct harmful to a child’s mental,emotional, or physical welfare as well as failure to make a reasonable effort to prevent sexual conductwith a child. Anyone who suspects that a child has been or may be abused or neglected has a legalresponsibility, under state law, for reporting the suspected abuse or neglect to law enforcement or toChild Protective Services (CPS). To report child abuse contact the Texas Department of Family andProtective Services at 1-800-252-5400.Class DisruptionsAny behavior which violates school rules, classroom rules, rules of conduct for school activities, or ateacher’s rules may result in a Class C citation.Closed CampusStudents are prohibited from leaving campus during lunch or any other part of the school day.Page 80 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductDetention Hall/Time-Out/In School SuspensionDetention hall assignment may be made when a student’s behavior warrants a period of time before orafter school or on Saturday in a study hall setting. ISS is In-School Suspension. Students may beassigned to ISS as a discipline management technique. (Parents will be notified of the removal toISS/Time Out.) It is the student’s responsibility to contact teachers before and after school for extrahelp.Disciplinary Alternative Education Program Appeal ProcessIf the principal or designee decides to remove a student to DAEP at Waller ISD for a period of time thatextends beyond the next semester grading period, the student’s parent/guardian must be provided anopportunity to conference with the principal or designee within three school days after notice ofremoval. The parent/guardian may appeal the principal/designee’s decision to the Assistant to theSuperintendent for Administration. The Assistant to the Superintendent for Administration may appointa designee to review the placement decision and make a recommendation. The decision of the Assistantto the Superintendent for Administration is final and may not be appealed.Disciplinary Alternative Education Program PlacementStudents placed in DAEP may not participate in any school-sponsored or school-related activity or be onany school district property. In case of a high school student, the Board’s designee, with the student’sparent or guardian, shall review the student’s progress towards meeting high school graduationrequirement and shall establish a specific graduation plan for the student.Discipline Referral/ReportA teacher with knowledge that a student has violated the Student Code of Conduct shall file with theprincipal/designee a written report, not to exceed one page, documenting the violation.Discipline ViolationA discipline violation includes the planning of or conspiring to commit an offense and/or commission ofan offense, at a school-related or school-sanctioned activity on or off school property. After aninvestigation, certain offenses may result in the filing of charges by law enforcement with theappropriate agency depending on the nature of the misconduct. Principals or their designees arerequired, by law, to report certain activities to law enforcement.ExpulsionStudents may be expelled for up to one calendar year. During the expulsion period, all credit may belost. Students may not return to the campus during the expulsion period. One who does will beconsidered to be trespassing and legal action will be taken. Expelled students may not attend schoolsponsored or school-related activities. An expelled student may be placed in the Harris County JuvenileJustice Alternative Education Program or some other education program for expelled students.Attendance at the assigned JJAEP is required since Waller ISD has an agreement with Harris County.Gang-Free ZonesCertain criminal offenses, including those involving organized criminal activity such as gang-relatedcrimes, will be enhanced to the next highest category of offense if they are committed in a gang-freezone. For purposes of the district, a gang-free zone includes a school bus and a location in, on, or within1,000 feet of any district-owned or leased property or campus playground.Page 81 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductNotification of Law ViolationsThe district is required by state law to notify:‣ All instructional and support personnel who have responsibility for supervising a student whohas been taken into custody, arrested, or referred to the juvenile court for any felony offense orfor certain misdemeanors.‣ All instructional and support personnel who have regular contact with a student who is thoughtto have committed certain offenses or who has been convicted, received deferred prosecution,received deferred adjudication, or was adjudicated for delinquent conduct for any felonyoffense or certain misdemeanors.‣ All appropriate district personnel in regards to a student who is required to register as a sexoffender.Penal CodeReferences to the Texas Penal Code are to define offenses only. In order to be punished under theStudent Code of Conduct, it is not necessary for the student to be charged or convicted under the PenalCode. The laws of the criminal courts, including definitions of “usable amount” do not apply to studentdiscipline. Copies of any statute or code referred to in this handbook are available in the principal’soffice or on the Internet at http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/.PossessionBeing in a student’s locker, purse, gym bag or in any other item owned by or belonging to the student,on the student’s person, or in a car driven by or occupied by the student or items found in a car parkedon school property or at a school activity.School Resource OfficersSchool Resource Officers (SRO) provides law enforcement, mentoring, and instruction on various childsafety and crime prevention topics to students and staff throughout Waller ISD. The officers are HarrisCounty Sheriff’s Deputies whose services are provided through an interlocal agency contract. Other lawenforcement agencies may also provide services as needed.SearchesThe school administrators, including District police officers, have the right to search a student’s desk,locker, purse, gym bag, backpack, any other item carried or possessed by a student, the student’sperson, pockets, or car upon reasonable suspicion.Sending Student to PrincipalA teacher may send a student to the principal’s office “to maintain effective discipline in the classroom”.The principal shall respond by employing appropriate discipline management techniques consistent withthe Student Code of Conduct (i.e. informal removal).Serious MisbehaviorThe Board’s designee may conclude that a student is guilty of serious misbehavior if the student hascommitted an offense included in Level III or Level IV offenses in the Student Code of Conduct; or mayconclude the student is guilty of persistent misbehavior if the student has committed two or more ofany of the Level II offenses in the Student Code of Conduct.Serious Misbehavior while in DAEPSerious misbehavior while in DAEP is considered as:‣ Deliberate violent behavior that poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others;Page 82 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct‣ Extortion, meaning the gaining of money or other property by force or threat;‣ Conduct that constitutes coercion, as defined by Section 1.07, Penal Code; or‣ Conduct that constitutes the offense of:o Public lewdness under Section 21.07, Penal Code;o Indecent exposure under Section 21.08; Penal Code;o Criminal mischief under Section 28.03; Penal Code;o Personal hazing under Section 37.152; oro Harassment under Section 42.07(a)(1), Penal Code, of a student or district employeeSuspensionThe principal or other appropriate administrator may suspend a student who engages in conduct forwhich the student may be placed in an alternative education program under the Texas Education CodeChapter 37, Subchapter A. A suspension may not exceed three school days.Texas Education CodeReferences to the Texas Education Code (TEC) are from Subtitle G Safe Schools, Chapter 37 Discipline;Law and Order. Each campus principal and assistant principal has a copy and it is available on theInternet.Ticketing of StudentsIn addition to school disciplinary action, students may also be ticketed by law enforcement for Class Cmisdemeanor offenses, including but not limited to minor thefts, minor criminal mischief, simpleassault, disorderly conduct, disruption of class, disruption or transportation, minor in possession ofalcohol, possession of alcohol or tobacco on school property and trespassing on school property.Notification from the court will be mailed to the student’s parent when a juvenile is issued a citation. Ajuvenile’s attendance in court, with a parent, is mandatory. A juvenile’s failure to appear in court maycause their drivers license application to be flagged by the Texas Department of Public Safety,preventing the issuance of a driver’s license when an application is submitted.The ticketing of students by law enforcement or the filing of other charges may not occur on the date ofthe offense. This could include, but not be limited to the following reasons; an ongoing investigation,gathering of statements, scheduled school holiday, illness/absence of the officer, absence/illness of thestudent(s) involved, or the later presentation of evidence to the District Attorney’s office.Charges for misdemeanors may be filed for a period of up to 2 years after an offense has occurred.Felony charges may be filed beyond the 2-year period, depending on the nature of the offense.Title V Offenses, Texas Penal CodeConduct defined as a felony offense in Title V of the Texas Penal Code include criminal homicide,murder, capital murder, manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, false imprisonment, kidnapping,aggravated kidnapping, indecency with a child, elderly individual or a disabled individual, abandoning orendangering a child, deadly conduct, terroristic threat, aiding suicide, and tampering with a consumerproduct.TrespassingBeing on other than home campuses, or being on any campus if expelled or suspended or placed in theDisciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) at the Waller School.Page 83 of 84

Waller Independent School District2012-2013 Parent/Student Handbook & Code of ConductWeaponsAny weapon, which is brought to school or a school activity, will not be returned to the student.Weapons as defined in the Penal Code and 18 U.S.C. 921 are as follows:‣ Firearm – any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily beconverted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; the frame or receiver of any suchweapon; any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; any destructive device.‣ Illegal Knife – means a:• Knife with a blade less than or equal to five and one-half inches (See Level II No. 3)• Knife with a blade greater than or equal to five and one-half inches (See Level IV No. 1)• Hand instrument designed to cut or stab another by being thrown• Dagger, including but not limited to a dirk, stiletto, and poniard• Bowie knife• Sword• Spear‣ Club – means an instrument that is specially designed, made or adapted for the purpose ofinflicting serious bodily injury or death by striking a person with the instrument, and includesbut is not limited to the following:• Blackjack• Nightstick• Mace• TomahawkPage 84 of 84