Student Planner - Tempe Union High School District

Mountain Pointe High SchoolStudent Planner4Purpose4Pride4Performance0910

____________________________________________Student NameWelcome...from the Principal_________________Student NumberM PWelcome Students,Welcome to Mountain Pointe High School, home of the Pride, and to the 2009-2010school year. This is an exciting time to be a member of the Pride. Our students haveraised the bar for achievement and continue to excel in academics, athletics, and cocurricularactivities. As I begin my second year as Principal I can say that I am proudto serve this community.As a reminder to our returning students, and an introduction to our new Pride students,Mountain Pointe was founded on three very important words: PURPOSE,PRIDE, and PERFORMANCE. These three words serve as the foundation for allthat is done at school. It is important that you keep these words in mind as you gothrough your high school experience.My challenge to each student as you begin this new school year is to get involved. Besidesexcelling in your academics find a club or sport to get involved with. Challengeyourself to be open to new experiences like trying an arts class or taking an AP orRio class or trying out for an athletic team. Get involved with the “Zoo Crew” spiritclub or join student council as a VIP. If you have an idea for a new club, find a teacherto serve as sponsor and start one. Research is clear that if you get involved in yourschool your academic performance will increase.As you walk through the halls of Mountain Pointe remember one thing; the graduatesbefore you have set the standard for excellence. It is your responsibility to not justmaintain that tradition, but to surpass it. Determine your PURPOSE, take PRIDE inwho you are and what you do, and expect a high level of PERFORMANCE.My pledge to you is that the staff of Mountain Pointe High School will provide youwith the best instruction, resources, and opportunities necessary for you to reachyour potential and achieve excellence.My door is always open, this is your school. I invite you to communicate your ideasso that Mountain Pointe High School continues to set the bar for excellence in thestate of Arizona.Make 2009-2010 a great year,Bruce KipperPrincipalMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 1

Pride Contacts4201 E. Knox Road • Phoenix, AZ • 85044(480) 759-8449 • (480) 759-8458 faxAdministration:Bruce Kipper, Principal............................................................................................... 56124Arthur J. Wagner, Assistant Principal ~ Student Services................................... 56119Patricia Goolsby, Assistant Principal ~ Activities.................................................. 57420Ian Moses, Assistant Principal ~ Athletics.............................................................. 56101Brian Fleming, Attendance /At-Risk Coordinator................................................. 56137School Resource Officer........................................................................................... 57422Attendance Hotline:Absences / Tardies / Off-Campus Passes............................................................... 57457Bookstore......................................................................................................................... 57443Cafeteria............................................................................................................................ 56107Emergency Hotline.......................................................................................................... 57455Equipment Room............................................................................................................. 56110Guidance/Career Center............................................................................................... 56108Health Office.................................................................................................................... 56125Library Media Center..................................................................................................... 53240Theatre Reservations..................................................................................................... 59000Visit the Pride website atwww.mphspride.comMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 2

Table of ContentsSchool InformationAcademic Information..................................6Academic Integrity........................................7Assemblies.................................................... 8Athletics &Extra-Curricular Activities.................... 8Attendance Policy....................................... 11Attendance Procedure.............................. 14Bookstore.................................................... 15Cafeteria & Snack Bar ............................... 15Cell Phones,Electronic/Digital Devices.................... 16Closed Campus........................................... 17Community Service................................... 17Dances.......................................................... 18Deliveries/Messages................................... 18Dress Code ................................................. 18E-mail............................................................. 20Elevator Policy............................................. 20Emergency Procedures............................. 20Food and Drink........................................... 20Gangs............................................................. 20Guidance ...................................................... 21Hall Passes.................................................... 22Hallway Rules.............................................. 22Health Services........................................... 22Identification Cards.................................... 23Leaving Campus.......................................... 23Library Media Center................................ 23Lockers......................................................... 24Lost and Found........................................... 24Off-campus Jurisdiction............................. 24Parking.......................................................... 24Pedestrian Safety......................................... 25Release Hours............................................. 25Senior Walk.................................................. 25Skateboards................................................. 26Student Records......................................... 26Study Hall..................................................... 26Technology Use........................................... 26Telephone Calls........................................... 27Transportation............................................ 27Visitor Information..................................... 28Voice Mail..................................................... 28Volunteers.................................................... 28T.U.H.S.D. Student DisciplineMPHS Code of Discipline......................... 29Guidelines for Selected Offensesand RecommendedMinimum Discipline............................... 30Mandatory Discipline forSpecified Offenses................................. 33Definitions of Selected Offenses ............ 34Arizona State StandardsWriting.......................................................... 36Reading......................................................... 37Mathematics................................................. 38Science.......................................................... 39Student CalendarsAugust 2009–May 2010...................... 40–49MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 3

Vision •Mission •ValuesVision“Establishing Purpose,Instilling Pride,Empowering Performance,-- One Person at a Time.”Mission“We exist to provide a supportive learning environment that challenges allstudents to realize their highest potential.”Values• Perseverance“We demonstrate dedication, determinations, and personal responsibility inpursuit of our goals and dreams.”• Respect“We celebrate the integrity and worth of each individual and esteem thediverse cultures, talents, and skills that each individual brings to our community.”• Innovation“We foster and reward new, creative, and imaginative approaches and ideas.”• Dedication to Life Long Learning“We emphasize learning as essential for continuously expanding horizons andachieving dreams.”• Excellence“We seek to be the best we can be in all aspects of the Mountain Pointeexperience.”• Purpose• Pride• PerformanceMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 4

Fight SongOh Mountain Pointe!Your praise we sing.Tradition shows we are a team.Our greatest strength lies deep inside.In hearts and minds we are the Pride.GO PRIDE! GO PRIDE!Fight on MPHS!Our purpose is to be the best.Maroon and Gold we do unite.We’re family for Pride we fight!FIGHT PRIDE! FIGHT PRIDE!Oh mighty Pride!Our spirit’s strong!With lions’ strength we all belong.When we perform for Pride we stand.So hear our roar through all the land!WE ARE MP!Alma MaterWe believe at Mountain Pointe.We achieve at Mountain Pointe.When we leave our Mountain Pointe,We will remember the vision we sought.We will remember tradition we brought.With purpose, pride, performance,Our future is enormous.When the twilight is gone,Life is moving on.We’ll remember purpose.We’ll remember performance.We’ll remember you, O Pride.O Pride.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 5

School InformationAcademic Information_ ______________________________________GraduationPer district policy, students must complete all twenty (20) graduation requirements and passAIMS to participate in the graduation ceremony; no exceptions. Graduation requirements areas follows:Subject Area Credits Year (recommended)English 4 9, 10, 11, 12Math 2 9, 10Science 2 9, 10 or 11Social Studies 3 10, 11, 12Physical Education 1 9Health 1/ 2 10 or 11Fine Arts/Practical Arts/Voc Ed (CTE) 2 9, 10, 11 or 12Electives 5 1 / 2 9, 10, 11 or 12Beginning with the class of 2012, the Math requirement will be raised to 3, bringing the graduationcredit requirement to 21.Beginning with the class of 2013, the Math requirement will be raised to 4 and the Sciencerequirement will be raised to 3, bringing the graduation credit requirement to 23.No more than one credit earned as administrative assistant will be counted among the twentyrequired for graduation.All correspondence course credit and credit received from other approved off-campus programsmust be verified by transcript by May 1, 2010.Progress Reports and Report CardsMountain Pointe High School evaluates student progress every nine weeks. A report card willbe mailed home. In addition, a progress report will be mailed home midway through the nineweek period. The following are the grade notification dates for Mountain Pointe High Schoolstudents:Quarter Progress Reports Report Cards1st September 8 October 92nd November 17 December 183rd February 2 March 124th April 20 May 28Dropping ClassesStudents can drop a class without penalty up until the end of the 10th week of the semester. If astudent drops a class after the 10th week, a W/F is recorded on the student’s transcript.Students enrolling in honors classes may not drop down to a regular level class, once they haveattended one day, until the end of the nine (9) week grading period.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 6

Academic LettersIn keeping with our goal of academic excellence, Mountain Pointe High School awards letters tothose students who have achieved the highest levels of academic achievement. The letters areawarded in the spring of each year. Students who qualify for the academic letter in more thanone year will receive the class emblem to wear in addition to their letter. The following criteriawill be used:Seniors....................................... An accumulative GPA of 3.7 / 168* after 7 semestersJuniors........................................ An accumulative GPA of 3.8 / 120* after 5 semestersSophomores ............................. An accumulative GPA of 3.9 / 72* after 3 semestersFreshmen................................... An accumulative GPA of 4.0 / 24* after 1 semester* weighted official rank points but NOT weighted GPARenaissanceRenaissance is an incentive program that recognizes excellence in academics, attendance andbehavior. Students who are eligible will receive a gold or silver card based on:Gold = 3.8 GPA Silver = 3.3 GPA(With no unexcused absences and 2 or less sweeps, and no discipline referrals for the past 2 quarters.Attendance cannot be changed after the fact since award is based on previous quarter. Only teachersmay make corrections for clerical errors.)Card holders can enjoy the benefits of free admission into one athletic event each season (fall,winter, spring sports = total 3 for the year and one performing arts event during the schoolyear). In addition, the cards can be used for discounts at local malls, school giveaways and prizedrawings. Keeping with our pursuit of academic rigor, finals exemptions will no longer be allowed.Students do not have to apply for a card. Cards are delivered to Academic Lab during the 2ndquarter and 4th quarter from the Activities Office.Academic Integrity________________________________Honesty is a foundation value for success in career and life. Each student has an obligation tothink and act with honesty and integrity, and respect the wishes of teachers and others in carryingout all academic assignments. Mountain Pointe has established an Honor Code that allstudents will sign and be expected to know and follow.Academic integrity encompasses any academic project, paper, performance, quiz, exam or anyother work assigned by a teacher for a grade or credit (including optional credit). Cheating,fabrication and plagiarism (see definitions below) are all forms of academic dishonesty that willnot be tolerated.• Cheating - Using or attempting to use unauthorized materials or technology, unauthorizedgroup work, information or study aids in any academic exercise or assignment.• Fabrication involves the falsification or invention of any information or citation in an academicexercise or assignment.• Plagiarism refers to using another’s words, ideas, materials or work without acknowledgingand documenting the source. Students are responsible for knowing the rules governing theuse of another’s work, and for acknowledging and documenting the source appropriately.Violations in carrying out class assignments, including the inappropriate use of the internet, cellphones, PDAs, calculators, or any other technology, will result in disciplinary consequences. Thefirst offense results in a zero on test/work and up to 5 days of ISS; second offense, in that class orany other class over the four years, results in withdrawal from class with an “F”.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 7

Assemblies________________________________________Assemblies and pep rallies are held for a variety of purposes: to teach, to entertain, to displayschool spirit, to celebrate and to honor various students, teams, clubs and organizations. Membersof the audience should respect and show courtesy toward the rights of the performer(s)or speaker(s). All assemblies are considered part of the regular school day. Students are requiredto attend assemblies and arrive on time. Parents and visitors are welcome to all of the schoolassemblies. Please stop by the receptionist’s desk for a visitor’s pass.Athletics & Extra-curricular Activities_ ______________Mountain Pointe High School offers extensive opportunities for all students to participate in theactivities of their choice as an integral part of their school program. Athletic team, club, and classexperiences are designed to help satisfy recreational, social, emotional, and extended academicneeds and interests of all students.Participation Requirements• The student must have passing grades in all credit-bearing courses. Grade checks are requiredperiodically.• An absence in 50% or more of credit-bearing classes may limit the ability to participate thatday. If a student has an unexcused absence in any class, s/he cannot participate that day.• Any student serving In-school Suspension, or Off-campus Suspension cannot participate in anyschool related activity the day(s) of the suspension.• If a student forges a teacher’s initials/signature or changes a grade on the grade check, the studentwill be ineligible to compete in athletics or participate in extracurricular performancesfor one calendar year.A.I.A. and Extra-Curricular Activities RequirementsA student must be enrolled in at least five (5) credit classes and have received passing grades inall credit-earning courses. Seniors who are on track to graduate must be enrolled in a minimumof four (4) credit bearing classes to be eligible.Athletic Eligibility1. Payment of $50 activity fee.2. Parental permission to participate is on file (A.I.A. activity).3. The student has on file the results of a physical examination indicating that s/he is fullyable to compete (A.I.A. activity). Physicals must have been completed after March 1, 2009for the 2009-2010 school year.4. The student does not become 19 years of age before September 1st of the school year(A.I.A. activity).5. The student is academically eligible. Grade checks are required periodically.6. The student has not been out of school for more than ten consecutive school days (A.I.A.activity).7. The student does not play on a team other than the high school team during the school’scompetitive season of the same sport (A.I.A. activity).8. The student must be covered by extracurricular activity insurance or provide proof ofinsurance (A.I.A. activity).9. The student has met residency requirements (A.I.A. activity).10. If the student is a transfer, s/he must meet the current A.I.A. eligibility requirements.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 8

11. Article 15 of the A.I.A. Handbook states that a student cannot compete in a club teamduring season.12. The student must have a signed a Student/Parent Athletic Handbook agreement on file.13. A student has only 8 consecutive semesters of athletic eligibility starting with Fall of theirfreshman year.Athletic PassesAthletic passes are sold in the MPHS bookstore and allow free entrance to all regular seasonhome events. A student athletic pass is $45, an adult single athletic pass is $55, and the “PrideFamily” athletic pass, which allows entrance for up to six immediate family members, is $200.Current student Renaissance membership allows free entrance to three home athletic events(limited to one per season–fall, winter & spring) and one performing arts event throughout the year.InsuranceTempe Union High School District students may purchase an insurance policy which coversnearly every kind of accident which might happen during the school day. Twenty-four hour accidentcoverage may also be purchased for your student. Students who participate in activitiesgoverned by the Arizona Interscholastic Association may obtain extended coverage, on a yearlybasis, which will cover every activity or sport except football. Students participating in footballwill be required to purchase extended coverage each year. The TUHSD will accept waivers fromfamilies with existing insurance coverage. Please contact your local campus bookstore for feeinformation.NCAA Accredited Classes*Student athletes who hope to participate in an intercollegiate sports program at a Division I orII school must graduate from high school meeting specific eligibility standards. In terms of whatis applicable at Mountain Pointe High School, those standards are as follows:• ACT composite score of 17 or an SAT combined score of 820• 2.0 cumulative grade point average in a “core” curriculum of classes• Thirteen (13) credits of classes in the following core areas:~ Three (3) credits of English~ Two (2) credits of math~ Two (2) credits of lab science~ Two (2) credits of social science~ Two (2) additional credits of English, math or science~ Two (2) additional credits in foreign language, computer programming, or any of the aboveareas~ Registered with and approved by the NCAA Clearinghouse* At time of printSportsmanshipThe following actions constitute good sportsmanship from students, staff, parents and communitymembers:1. Provide positive cheering and other moral support for our team members.2. Show respect for game officials and refrain from any unsportsmanlike act directed towardthem.3. Censure fellow students whose behavior is unbecoming.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 9

4. Refrain from applauding errors by opponents or penalties inflicted upon them.5. Refrain from criticizing players or coaches for loss of a game.The following actions shall constitute grounds for removal from the particular event and/orrestriction from attendance at further events:1. Disrespect to either home or visiting participants and spectators.2. Disrespect to school, security officials and game officials.3. Throwing of any objects, including confetti, at any time.4. Use of radios or CD/tape players in the gym during play.5. Use of profane language, obscene gestures or similar behavior.6. Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.7. Damage or abuse of school property.8. Actions which are a potential hazard to health, safety, or well being of spectators orparticipants.9. Other inappropriate behavior deemed sufficiently repetitive, flagrant, or severe by the staff.Students, staff members, parents and community members should remember that all school rulesand regulations are in effect at all school events.Athletic tryout dates for the 2009-2010 school year:Fall Sports Tryouts Begin Head CoachBadminton Monday, August 10th Pom BrownCross Country Monday, August 10th Heather Kiser/Dave AllisonFootball – Varsity Monday, August 3rd Norris VaughanFootball – JV Monday, August 10th Brandon BuckFootball – Frosh Monday, August 10th Terry CochranGolf Monday, August 10th TBA (girls)Tony Ramseyer (boys)Swimming & Diving Monday, August 10th Steve MancusoVolleyball Monday, August 10th Fred Mann (girls)Winter Sports Tryouts Begin Head CoachBasketball Monday, November 2nd Trevor Neider (girls)Brian Fleming (boys)Soccer Monday, November 2nd Mark Wilson (girls)Bryan Sabato (boys)Wrestling Monday, November 2nd Shannon RadfordSpring Sports Tryouts Begin Head CoachBaseball Monday, February 8th Brandon BuckSoftball Monday, February 8th Melissa WendellTennis – Varsity & JV Monday, January 25th Rick Carter (girls)Dan Ray (boys)Track Monday, February 8th Jeff GriffinVolleyball Monday, February 8th Fred Mann (boys)MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 10

Title IX:The Tempe Union High School District will take all steps necessary to insure that, “The right ofa student to participate fully in classroom instruction shall not be abridged or impaired becauseof age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, handicap, pregnancy, parenthood, marriage, or anyother reason not related to the student’s individual capabilities.”Attendance Policy_________________________________The right and privilege of attending public school carries with it certain responsibilities on thepart of parents and students. High school attendance is ultimately the responsibility of the studentand his/her family. It is important that parents and students recognize the direct relationshipthat exists between academic success and regular school attendance. Students should remain outof school only when absolutely necessary. Much classroom activity cannot be replicated; classdiscussion and participation is lost forever to those who are absent.Definitions• Absence - A student who arrives more than 10 minutes late is considered absent.• Excused absence - An absence is excused if a parent or guardian notifies the school. Thereason for the absence must be given.• Off-Campus Pass - Generated by the Student Services Office allowing students to leavecampus with parent/guardian permission.• School-related absence - If a student misses class due to a pre-approved school-relatedactivity, it will not count as an absence.• Suspension - The days of suspension do not count as absences for attendance policy.• Sweep - Students are swept out of the hallways during the first 10 minutes of class. Theselate students report to the Sweep Room. Students who will be swept: those in violation of thetardy policy (see below); students out of class without passes; students late for school and didnot receive an excused pass from the Attendance Office.• Tardy - A student is tardy when s/he is not in class when the tardy bell rings OR as stipulatedin their teacher’s classroom syllabus or rules. Students without a pass will report to the sweeproom.• Unexcused absence - Any absence that is not excused by 3:00 pm on the same day by aparent or guardian.Makeup WorkIt is the student’s responsibility to obtain makeup work from his/her teachers.• Excused absence - Students will be allowed the number of days absent to make up assignments.Work that was assigned prior to an absence will be due upon return to class.• Unexcused absence - Students will be accountable for information missed. Teachers arenot required to issue credit for the work.• Sweep - It is the responsibility of the student to contact any and all teachers to pick up andhand in any homework. Teachers must be contacted by the end of the day in which the studentwas in sweep. On the third sweep, and thereafter, no credit will be given for work missed whilein sweep.• Off-Campus Suspension - Upon return from a suspension, students have the correspondingamount of days to make up all missed assignments.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 11

Absences• A student is allowed 10 absences, excused or unexcused per class per semester. The 11thabsence will result in loss of credit unless there are extenuating circumstances. The followingare examples of extenuating circumstances: hospitalization, personal/health reasons, familyissues, chronic health issues, college visits, runaways, drug rehabilitation, parents kept childout, and parent issues. Contact the Attendance/At-Risk Coordinator with questions regardingextenuating circumstances.Other extenuating circumstances may be determined by the Principal.• A third sweep and each one thereafter in the same class equates to an unexcused absence.• A student in a Dual Credit class is allowed 10 absences. S/he may lose college credit on the11th absence.• Students will be disciplined as a result of unexcused absences. Consequences will include anyof the following depending on the severity of student non-compliance: in-school suspension,off-campus suspension and withdrawal from class. Students must be enrolled in four creditbearingclasses. Any student dropped from courses due to attendance will be withdrawn fromschool if their schedule drops below four credit-bearing classes. Students under 16 years ofage can be cited for truancy.Parent Notification• Automated calling system will call daily on all absences.• On the 3rd total absence, the teacher will attempt to make contact with the parent.• Computer generated letters are mailed on the 5th and 8th absence in each class.• At the 11th absence, student can be dropped from class. Parent will be notified.Teacher Responsibility• Teachers will complete attendance for each class daily.• Teachers will make parent contact about attendance concerns.• Teachers will allow excused students the number of days absent to make up the work whenthey return unless arrangements are made with the teacher.• Teachers will hold students accountable for work missed when they return from unexcusedabsences, but not give them credit for the work.• Teacher will have makeup work readily available to students with excused absences. Afterstudent/parent request, teachers will provide work within 48 hours for parent pick up.Student Responsibility• Students are accountable for their absences/tardies and should keep a record of their ownabsences/tardies so they know the totals at all times.• For every day absent, students have one day to make up work.• School related absence – students must take test/turn in assignments prior to the absence.• It is the student’s responsibility to obtain makeup work from his/her teachers.• Upon return from a suspension, students have the corresponding amount of days to make upall missed assignments.Extra/Co-Curricular Activity ParticipationAn absence in 50% or more of credit-bearing classes may limit the ability to participate that day.If a student has an unexcused absence in any class, s/he cannot participate that day.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 12

Closed CampusMountain Pointe is a closed campus. A closed campus is designed to aid in the safetyand accountability of students. Mountain Pointe practices the following closed campusprocedures:• All students will remain on campus during normal school hours.• Parents or legal guardians are the only people allowed to sign out their children.• Parents must sign out their children through the attendance office.• Students will not be allowed to go off campus for lunch.• Any student that has parental permission to leave campus must have cleared it through theattendance office.Late to School (1st Hour)In order to minimize class interruptions and to assure students do not miss valuable instructiontime, students who arrive late to school [arriving after first (1st) period has started] will be sentto Sweep for the remainder of that class period unless:1. They are accompanied to school by a parent or court-appointed legal guardian.2. They have documentation from their doctor that the tardy is due to a scheduled appointment.3. An unforeseen emergency occurred. Oversleeping, missing a ride or car problems do notconstitute an emergency.This policy applies to all students arriving after first (1st) period has started.Off-Campus PassesTo leave campus a student’s parent/guardian must call the attendance hotline (ext. 57457) on theday of and prior to the time of the absence to receive an off-campus pass and to be excused.Students must have their MPHS ID to leave.Students who are ill must report to the nurse. The nurse will make arrangements with the parent/guardianwith regard to how the student will get home.Release HoursSeniors only may have up to two release periods but must be enrolled in four credit-bearingclasses. In order to leave campus during the school day, seniors must display a release sticker ontheir school ID.Release for Work Study Program and EVITStudents in DECA, COE, HERO, Advanced Marketing, Business Internship and EVIT must displaya release sticker on their school ID.Tardies (Sweep)Mountain Pointe High School is committed to providing a learning environment that will enableour students to learn and excel. To reinforce responsible behavior and to minimize the interruptionsduring instructional time, Mountain Pointe High School has instituted a “Sweep Program”.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 13

Tardies (Sweep) Rules and Procedures• Teachers, security guards, and administrators will sweep students out of the hallways duringthe first five minutes of class. These late students will be swept to the Sweep Room.• Students who will be swept:~ Students who violate the classroom tardy policy or who are in the halls when the bell rings~ Students out of class without passes (large hall pass or official front office pass)~ Students late to school first hour without a doctor’s note or accompanied by a parent• Students swept for the third time (cumulative in all classes) and each time thereafter, will besubject to disciplinary action.• Students swept for the third time in the same class, and each time thereafter, will count as anunexcused absence and student will be subject to additional disciplinary action.• Sweep DOES NOT postpone any assignment deadline. Unless the assignment is turned in onthe same day as the Sweep, it will be considered LATE.• Sweep students who miss an assignment or test must contact the teacher and/or follow establishedabsence procedures by the next time the class meets and complete all make-up work.• Students ditching to avoid a sweep will be disciplined.Sweep Room• Students must sign in when they enter the Sweep Room.• While in the Sweep Room, students may not talk, study, work, or sleep. Students must sitstraight in the desk, looking forward until the class period is finished.• If a student fails to follow Sweep Room rules, s/he will be assigned a full day of ISS thefollowing day.Sweep vs. Ditching• Attendance Office personnel will post a “W” during the hour the student was swept.• If a student has been swept, s/he has until the next class meeting to obtain missed assignments.If s/he does not do so, a zero will be received on that assignment.• If a student is ditching, s/he will receive an unexcused absence (“U”) and has no opportunityto make up the missed test or work. Teachers can also write a referral for ditching.Students will be disciplined as a result of excessive (3 and each one thereafter) tardies (sweeps)upon referral from a teacher or the Sweep Room attendant. Consequences will include, but arenot limited to, after school detention, in-school suspension, parent conference and short-termor long-term suspension.Attendance Procedure_____________________________The following is a summary of the Mountain Pointe Attendance procedure:Parent CallsOnly the parent/legal guardian of the student can notify the school of an absence or request anoff-campus pass. When a parent/legal guardian calls to excuse their student, the absence is listedas excused and the reason given is documented. Parent or legal guardian must call on the sameday of the absence before 3:00 p.m.Unexcused AbsenceIf a parent does not call on the same day of the absence, and the teacher enters the studentabsent, the computer automatically records that student unexcused.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 14

Off Campus PassesTo leave campus a student’s parent/guardian must call the attendance office on the day of andprior to the time of the absence to receive an off-campus pass and be excused. Students musthave their MPHS ID to leave.Students who are ill must report to the nurse. The nurse will make arrangements with the parent/guardianwith regard to how the student will get home.Students will not receive off-campus passes to leave for lunch or Academic Lab.Bookstore_________________________________________The Bookstore is open Monday through Friday from 7:20 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. It is, however, closeddaily from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. A current student identification card is required in order to pickup yearbooks and dance pictures, receive refunds for class fees, obtain a book, or to look uplocker information.A number of school supplies such as paper, pens, pencils, notebooks, binders, poster board,goggles, etc. are carried for your convenience. All purchases must be made by cash or checkmade payable to MPHS for the amount of purchase only. Checks will not be accepted fromseniors after May 1st in order to clear accounts for graduation. Students are reminded to retaintheir receipts for all purchases.Textbooks will be distributed during summer registration. Books issued are the responsibilityof the student and must be returned to the bookstore if a class is dropped. Damaged or nonreturnedbooks must be paid for by the student at the bookstore.Cafeteria & Snack Bar______________________________Tempe Union High School District offers a wide variety of food choices. Students can choosemenu items from at least four or more specialized food court areas. Daily menu choices includePizza, Burgers & Fries, Casa Solana Mexican Foods, as well as freshly made subs, sandwiches andbagels.All food items are sold ala Carte with the exception of the Combo Lunch. Combo Lunchesare priced from $2.00 to $2.75. It includes milk, fruit and salad. A complete combo lunch isnutritionally equivalent to a meal that is served in the National School Lunch Program. ComboLunch menus are as follows: Shaved Turkey Breast Sandwich, or Chef Salad, or Bean Burro or aBeef Taco and a Daily Special.The district’s pricing policy encourages students to select nutritionally smart menu choices.Students may purchase fresh fruit, full strength juices, milk, yogurt and freshly made salads at veryreasonable prices. Less nutritious foods are priced considerably higher.Free Meal ApplicationsThe Combo Lunch is available free to all families receiving any Department of Economic Security(D.E.S.) benefits, including D.E.S. placed foster children, group home children and homelesschildren. In order to receive free meals, you must complete the “Free Meal Registration Form”.The registration form is available on line at: https://www.tuhsd.k12.az.us/view.php?page=26,62(Free meal application)You may also pickup a copy in the principal’s office or cafeteria. Completed forms are bestreturned to the cafeteria manager.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 15

For your convenience, students may open a debit account with the cafeteria. The school I.D. isused for the account and enables the student to make purchases without having to use cash.Personal checks are accepted with a debit card account. Account deposits as well as reviewingaccount transactions may be made on line. https://secure.revtrak.net/tuhsd/tek9.asp (Deposits).https://www.mymealmoney.com/tempe.aspx(View Transactions)Biometric Identification (Finger-scan Identification)Finger-scan identification is available for students that frequently lose or fail to bring their I.D.card. Biometric identification uses multiple points located from a finger print image to create aunique identification code. The system insurers that only the finger of the account holder canaccess account funds. The finger-scan system secures lunch funds and eliminates the need tocarry an I.D. card.The system does not retain finger prints! It stores a template that is converted to a binarynumber that is used to locate the student lunch account. Fingerprints cannot be recreated fromthe template.The finger-scan system requires a fee of $4.00 to initiate and input into the data base. Oncethe scan is established, the student no longer needs to produce an I.D. card and funds cannot beaccessed by anyone else.Please remember, that free or full price student debit accounts cannot be used without thestudent’s I.D.Catering MenuYour school cafeteria can provide food for all occasions, Sport banquets, club meetings as wellas booster events.Please check out TUHSD web site for menu choices and prices: https://www.tuhsd.k12.az.us/departments/foodandnutrition/foodCateringMenu.pdfContactsIf you have any questions, please feel free to contact your school cafeteria 480-759-6107 or callthe Food & Nutrition Office at 480-345-3745.Cell Phones, Electronic/Digital Devices______________Keeping the Mountain Pointe classrooms places of Rigor and Relevance - creates the need forchanges in policy from time to time. Due to the increase in classroom interruptions, incidents ofacademic dishonesty, and reported thefts, the following items are NOT allowed on campus:• ipods• portable dvd players• personal laptops• cameras or video recorders• mp3 players• laser pointers• headsets• paging devices• CD players or any personal• any game playing deviceelectronic or digital music devicesThese items that are unnecessary to our educational process and deemed potentially disruptivewill not be allowed at school. The only exception to this policy shall be items brought to theclassroom for instructional related activities that are supervised by the classroom teacher.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 16

In addition, cell phones may not be seen or used during the school day includingpassing and lunch. Students may possess cell phones for use before school and after theschool day, but their use during the school day from 7:49 a.m. to 2:36 p.m. is strictly prohibited.Use is interpreted as using any cell phone function or feature, not just the sending orreceiving of calls. Cell phones must be turned off and kept out of sight. Cell phones may notbe turned on until the end of the school day.The student bears total responsibility for safeguarding their cell phone. If an emergency occursduring the school day, a parent/guardian should contact the office immediately. Students will beimmediately contacted and brought down to the office, if requested. Students may continue touse cell phones before or after school hours to communicate home and arrange rides. We recognizethat technology is a part of the fabric of life today but rather than ban cell phones - weare opting to have reasonable limits to its use.Lost or stolen cell phones or devices are the responsibility of the student. Bringing the item toschool is at the student’s own risk for loss/theft. Mountain Pointe is not responsible for stolen ormissing equipment and it is strongly recommended that they not be brought to campus. Stolenitems should be reported to Crime Stop.If a student violates the policy, any staff member may confiscate the device and turn it in to theoffice. Any student receiving a cell phone/electronics violation is subject to disciplinary actionincluding, but not limited to, after-school detention, in-school suspension, parent conference andshort-term or long-term suspension.Use of an electronic device for the purpose of cheating will have additional disciplinary actions.It is unlawful for any person to knowingly photograph, videotape, film, or digitally record or byany other means use a device to secretly view or record another person without that person’sconsent. In addition, it is unlawful to disclose, display, distribute, or public a photograph, videotape,film, or digital recording made without the consent of the person depicted. Refer to ARS13-3019. Violation of this statute is a class 5 felony.Closed Campus____________________________________Students must remain on campus during the school day unless an off-campus pass is obtained. Allstudents will be enrolled in six classes except for seniors who have completed enough creditsand have parent permission. In order to leave campus during the school day seniors must displaya release sticker on their school ID. Students will not receive off-campus passes to leaveduring lunch or Academic Lab.Community Service________________________________With many high schools requiring community service hours and college applications asking aboutcommunity service, we want to clarify the role of community service at Mountain Pointe. Is itrequired for graduation? No. Is it highly encouraged and required for some honorary societies?YES. Community Service logs are available in the Activities Office. Each year the forms are donein a different color -so that by your senior year you will have 4 different colored logs representingyour freshman, sophomore, junior and senior year. When will I use these logs? Applying forcollege, asking for letters of recommendation, applying for Senior Walk, National Honor Society,or Language Honor Society or even applying for a job. Is there a Community Service Award? AtMountain Pointe there is a Community Service letter program for students who perform 100 ormore hours of community service each year. Students wishing to receive a Community ServiceLetter must turn in their completed logs to the Student Council sponsor, Mrs. Laurie Slemmer,by the first Friday in April of each school year. There are very specific guidelines availablein the Activities Office for Community Service Letters and Senior Walk.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 17

Dances___________________________________________Many outstanding dances are sponsored by clubs or student council organizations and heldthroughout the year. These dances may include: Welcome Back, Homecoming, Winter Formal,Coronation, Just Because and the Prom. All dances are chaperoned by MPHS faculty and administrationand staffed by Phoenix Police officers for the large dances. Welcome Back is a casual attiredance and the Just Because dance usually has a theme. All other dances are semi-formal or formal,so please check the dance posters and listen to the daily announcements for suggested attire.Here are some reminders to help create a safe and healthy dance environment. Students mustshow a current MPHS school I.D. to enter school dances. If you lost your I.D. a new onemay be purchased for $5.00. Students are not allowed to leave and re-enter a dance under anycircumstances.Guest passes are available for all dances except the Welcome Back Dance. Guest passes maybe picked up from the Activities Office starting one month prior to the dance. Completed guestpasses are returned to the Activities Office by the Thursday prior to the dance for approval. Allguests must arrive with their MPHS host student who is required to present the approved guestpass and proper I.D. at the door. There is a one guest limit per student. Guests must be underthe age of 21 and middle school students may not attend high school dances.MPHS Dances start at 8:00 p.m. and end promptly at 11:00 p.m., except for Prom which concludesat midnight. As always, prom is hosted and organized by the junior class. The prom is forupperclassmen only. Underclassmen are allowed to attend if invited by a junior or senior. Guestsare also permitted (by invitation from a Mountain Pointe junior or senior student) if they submita guest pass to the Activities office prior to the event.Lighting in the gym or venue will include the security lighting in addition to lighting providedby the DJ. Appropriate behavior is the expectation for all students and their guests who attendthe MPHS dances. Inappropriate behavior that may embarrass students and their families is nottolerated. Suggestive dancing, grinding, freak dancing, moshing or slamming will be not tolerated.Be aware that all vehicles can be subject to search for any illegal contraband. Purses, bags, andclothing may be searched for items inappropriate at a dance. Items such as drink containers, waterbottles, or any item that may contain an illegal substance will not be allowed inside the venue.Students who arrive under the influence will be referred to the police officer on duty, parentswill be notified, and the students will be subject to school discipline as well. Students who areremoved from the dance will not be given refunds.Deliveries /Messages________________________________To minimize classroom disruption, the school does not deliver packages, flowers or otheritems to students during the school day. Students should not bring balloons and flowers toclasses because of student allergies.Phone messages will not be delivered except in case of an emergency. Transportation changesbetween student and parent are not considered an emergency. Pay telephones are provided forstudent use at Mountain Pointe High School.Dress Code_______________________________________It is the belief of the faculty and administration that school pride, morale and image are influencedby the general appearance of our students. Additionally, Mountain Pointe High Schoolexpects student dress and grooming to reflect high standards of personal conduct so that eachstudent’s attire promotes a positive, safe, and healthy atmosphere within our school.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 18

Student and Parent ResponsibilityStudents and their parents/guardians have the responsibility to be aware of the school’s specificdress code and to conform to these requirements. If a student or parent has any questions aboutwhether specific attire or accessories are in compliance with this Dress Code, they should contactan Assistant Principal prior to wearing such attire or accessory to ensure compliance.MPHS ResponsibilityOn campus, the faculty, staff and administration have the responsibility to interpret and enforcethis policy. The administration retains the final discretion to determine that the garment or accessorymeets the dress code.A set of guidelines has been created by a committee of parents, students, teachers and schoolofficials. We want to provide the freedom for students to express themselves within the set ofparameters listed on the next page.Guidelines: Pants, Skirts, Shorts, etc.• Sagging is not allowed. The waistband of the pants, shorts or skirt must meet the bottom ofthe shirt or top at all times (i.e. standing, sitting, etc.). Pants should not drag excessively on theground.• Shorts and skirts must pass the “pointer finger” rule, which means that they may be notshorter than where the student’s pointer finger touches the leg when the arm is hangingstraight down.• Pants, shorts or skirts must cover underwear at all times.Guidelines: Shirts, Tops, Blouses, etc.• No midriff, back skin or side skin showing. In other words, shirts and other tops must meetthe pants/slacks/skirts with no exposure of abdomen, back or side.• Not permitted: strapless tops, tube tops, racer backs, halter tops, or one-strap tops. No bustiersor tops with spaghetti straps. Straps must be at least two fingers in width and/or 13/4”wide covering all undergarments. No see-through shirts or necklines that expose any cleavage.Students may not layer inappropriate shirts to attempt to make an appropriate one. (Straplesstop over men’s undershirt top, camisole over a racer back top, unbuttoned long sleeve shirtover men’s undershirt, etc. Two wrongs don’t make a right! )• Underwear may not show (boxers, briefs, thongs, bras, etc.) and underwear and sleepwearworn as outerwear (i.e. camisoles, men’s undershirts, or pajama pants) is not permitted.Guidelines: Head Coverings• No head or hair coverings may be worn in school buildings.• Exceptions may be made for uniforms, formal attire or costumes with administrator approval.Inappropriate Dress• Attire or accessories which advertise, display, and/or promote drugs, alcohol, tobacco, gangactivity, violence, sexual activity, disrespect, lewd, vulgar, or obscene language, and/or bigotrytoward any group or person.• Bodypiercing that is a safety hazard and/or hinders classroom performance.• Shoes must be worn at all times according to Arizona State law. For safety, shoes must havean outdoor sole (i.e. no bedroom slippers).• Sunglasses may not be worn in school buildings.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 19

Consequences:Any student violating this policy is subject to disciplinary action including, but not limited to,after-school detention, in-school suspension, parent conference and short-term or long-termsuspension. In addition, the student will remove the garment or accessory and replace it with anappropriate alternative provided by the school or parent.Please also see section on Gangs.E-Mail____________________________________________Staff members may be contacted through e-mail. In general, all staff have the same ending address.Simply insert the staff member’s first initial and entire last name before @tuhsd.k12.az.us.(Example: To contact Ian Moses type imoses@tuhsd.k12.az.us).Elevator Key Policy________________________________In order to check out an elevator key, the injured or disabled student must agree to abide by thefollowing rules. The key is to be checked out from the principal’s secretary and returned to heron the agreed upon date.1. No one other than the injured student may use the elevator. If the student allows othersto ride the elevator, s/he could be suspended for insubordination.2. Students must sign an agreement card in order to use the elevator.3. A $25.00 security deposit will be held until the key is returned.4. When the key is returned by the agreed upon date, the deposit check will be returned. Ifthe key is not returned, the check will be deposited and the student will forfeit the refund.Emergency Procedures_____________________________Fire DrillsState law requires all schools to practice fire drills. The purpose of these drills is to acquaint allstudents with the different exits depending on the area he/she may be in at the time of the firedrill. In case of a fire drill, students are asked to exit in an orderly efficient manner.False AlarmsAnyone who is found to be guilty of turning in a false fire alarm or bomb report will be subjectto prosecution. Students found guilty are subject to disciplinary action.Emergency protocols are published and made available to all staff. Staff is trained and both personneland students practice drills on a regularly scheduled basis.Food and Drink____________________________________Food and drinks, except capped, bottled water, are not allowed in classrooms, upstairs or onany carpeted areas. Students caught with food or drink in any of these areas will be subject todisciplinary action.Gangs____________________________________________A gang is two or more people whose activities violate the law or school rules. Gangs that initiate,advocate or promote activities that threaten the safety or well-being of persons or propertyon school grounds or disrupt the school environment are harmful to the educational process.The use of hand signals, graffiti, or the presence of any apparel, jewelry, accessory, or manner ofMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 20

dress (sagging) or grooming that, by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark, symbol, or anyother attribute indicates or implies membership or affiliation with such a group is prohibitedbecause of the disruption to educational activities that results from such activities or dress. Itis the school’s position that such activities and dress present a clear and present danger to thestudents at Mountain Pointe.Consequences1. Informal talk by a school official (teacher, security guard, counselor, administrator) whowill attempt to reach agreement with the student as to acceptable behavior. Parentalinvolvement by telephone, letter, or personal conference.2. In-school suspension, off-campus suspension or off-campus police referral.3. Long-term suspension or expulsion (continued and serious violations).Guidance_________________________________________The Guidance department mission is to ensure that all students acquire the national and stateguidance standards in the areas of academics and career. Academic Guidance is the primaryresponsibility or role that each counselor assumes. Counselors are assigned approximately 450students, alphabetically by last name, and are available before and after school, during AcademicLab and/or by appointment.Student Counselor Specialized AreaA - Ch Gwyn Schneck 504 Facilitator; SSD Coordinator,Registration LiaisonCi - Gom Steve Mancuso AP Coordinator; PSAT and PLAN Coordinator,Puente Program ContactGon - Kn Bryan Sabato Scholarship Coordinator; MPHS Representativewith TUHSD Crisis TeamKo - Ng Sonia Flores ASVAB, and ECAP Coordinator; ACE Contact,Military and EVIT LiaisonNh - Sie Nan Hillebrand College/University Liaison; Gifted LiaisonSif - Z Fred Mann AIMS and TerraNova Coordinator, AssistsAdmin. with Academic Support programsEach counselor:• aids with academic planning.• maintains credit checks of students and forwards copies of special education students creditchecks to the department chair.• registers students for the upcoming school year.• registers new students throughout the year.• handles schedule change requests throughout the year.• provides academic support; i.e., tutoring requests, homework requests, study skills help, etc.• schedules and facilitates requested parent/teacher conferences.• coordinates study team evaluations/screenings.• writes letters of recommendation and aids in the college application process.• aids with career guidance.• aids with personal/social issues and referrals.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 21

A response counselor is available and “on-call” each day to enroll new students, meet withparents that walk in without an appointment and need assistance, assist administrators and forstudent crises and emergencies.Mountain Pointe’s Guidance Department welcomes students to use the resources that are availablein the Guidance College and Career Computer Center. We encourage students to listen tothe daily announcements and newscasts that announce the most updated Guidance information.Feel free to come into the Guidance Center, meet your counselor and explore all of the college,career, scholarship, and military aids that are available.Hall Passes________________________________________All students must have a “board” pass from a staff member to be in the halls. Nopasses will be given the first and last 10 minutes of class. This applies to all studentsincluding administrative assistants, student council members, and newspaper staff members. Studentscaught out of class without an official hall pass may be charged with ditching and willreceive a day of in-school suspension. It is the student’s responsibility to secure a pass prior toleaving. Students are responsible for returning the pass undamaged. A referral to the administrationis the result of loss, destruction, or theft of property.Hallway Rules_____________________________________While classes are changing, many students are moving through the Mountain Pointe hallways.While classes are in session, the hallways should be empty except for those students with apass. During lunch time, students are not allowed on carpeted areas (the library is theonly exception). The rules of conduct set forth below are established not only for instructionalreasons, but for reasons of safety, cleanliness, comfort and convenience. The need to be considerateof other people and to respect their “space” is essential. Students should never use profaneor vulgar language, should never run, yell, scream, hit lockers or make excessive noise while inthe halls.Health Services____________________________________A full time Registered Nurse is available to students during the school day. Students who needto see the nurse MUST have a written or board pass from their teacher, even during passingperiods. Students who do not have a pass will be sent to sweep. Students must sign in as theyenter the nurse’s office on the sign in log. Students who are ill and need to be picked up by theirparents must first see the nurse before being picked up. Students who leave school because ofillness without first reporting to the nurse will be unexcused.Any student with a medical problem (i.e. seizures, asthma, diabetes, or heart problems) shouldreport the problem to the nurse. Students who require medication during the school day musthave their medication brought in by a parent/guardian in the original current prescription bottleand must have a parental medication release signed by their parent/guardian. The Nurse isNOT responsible for assuring that students take their medication while at schooland is unable to call students down that miss doses. Students may not carry medicationswhile on campus; they must be kept at the Nurse’s Office. Remaining medication must be pickedup at the end of the school year by a parent or guardian, or it will be disposed of. Students maycarry inhalers at any time, but a signed parental/guardian medication release must be on file in theNurse’s Office. All medication releases are good for the school year only and must be renewedannually.Students with diabetes will be permitted to have immediate access to blood glucose testingequipment with them at all times if those accommodations are medically based upon appropriateMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 22

documentation. Diabetic students should carry snacks and juice with them at all times and areencouraged to keep a supply of snacks at the Nurse’s Office.In order to be excused from PE, the student must bring a signed note from their parent/guardianto the nurse. If there are more than three consecutive absences, a signed Physician’s excusemust be given to the nurse that states how long the absence will remain in affect.Students who have an accident or injury at school need to report it to the nurse immediately.Immunization Requirements:Arizona law requires documentary proof of immunity against certain childhood diseases for students enteringArizona schools for the first time. With some exceptions, students subject to this requirementwho lack documentary proof may enroll but not attend school until proof is provided. Ifyour child is entering an Arizona school for the first time, please obtain from the school nurse an “MPFact Sheet Documentation of Immunization” for more detailed information.Identification Cards________________________________Due to the increased concern regarding student and staff safety, all staff members and studentsare provided identification cards which must be carried at all times during the school day. IDphotos are taken for students entering Mountain Pointe for the first time at no cost. Studentsmust have a current ID to leave campus due to an early release or off-campus pass, check outlibrary materials, receive a parking pass, when picking up a yearbook, and to conduct bookstorebusiness. In addition, a MPHS ID must be shown to gain entrance to all extracurricularactivities including school dances.IDs are the property of Mountain Pointe High School. If defaced, students must pay for the costof a replacement ID. Replacement ID cards are $5.00 and may be purchased from the bookstoreduring the school year.Leaving Campus___________________________________Parents are expected to call or check into the attendance office prior to a student leavingcampus. Any student leaving campus must obtain an off-campus pass. Students cannot leavecampus during lunch without the parent coming into the attendance office and signing them out.Parents are the only authorized person(s) to take a student during the lunch period. There areno exceptions without administrative approval.Library Media Center______________________________The Mountain Pointe Library Media Center opens at 7:15 a.m. and closes at 3:30 p.m., Mondaythrough Friday. On half-days, Teacher In-service days and Testing days, the library will close at theend of the scheduled school day.Checking Out Materials• a current Mountain Pointe ID card must be shown• Books can be checked out for two (2) weeks; can be renewed twice• Students are limited to five (5) checkout items• No fines are assessed, but no more checkout of materials until overdues are resolved• Students MUST pay for lost or damaged itemsMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 23

Library ComputersThe main use of the library computers is for academic research and/or class-related activities.Staff members reserve the right to ask users to relinquish use as warranted, especially if thestudent is in violation of the TUHSD’s Technology Agreement.Expected Behavior in the MPHS LibraryThe Mountain Pointe Library rules of behavior are designed to protect the rights and safety ofour students, faculty, and staff as they relate to the proper use of the library. Library rules ofbehavior are enforced in accordance with the Mountain Pointe Student Code of Conduct asspecified in this handbook.• Use the Library to study, to read, or to do research for class assignments.• Work in a manner that allows others to concentrate; disruptive behavior may result in the lossof library privileges or expulsion from the library.• Follow school policies – especially no use of cell phones or other electronic devices, andadhere to the school dress code.• No food and drink is allowed in the library and lab areas.• Respect not only the staff and other students, but also the library materials and furnishings.YOU are responsible for the proper treatment and return of all materials used.• Students who exhibit inappropriate behavior will be asked to leave the library and return to class.Lockers___________________________________________Students are responsible for their own school books, supplies, and loss of such. Studentswho keep money or other valuable items in their lockers take the risk of having themstolen. Students will not be reimbursed by the school for lost or stolen items. Students areencouraged to go to their lockers before school, after school and at lunch time. Locks or lockerproblems such as forgotten combinations, lost locks, etc., should be reported to the bookstore.The school system retains the right to inspect student lockers for any reason, at any time, withoutnotice, without student consent, and without a search warrant.Lost and Found____________________________________The lost and found is located in the bookstore. All lost or found articles should be reported tothe bookstore. All unclaimed articles will be given to the Good Will at the end of each semester.If items are stolen, see security immediately and fill out a report.Off-Campus Jurisdiction____________________________In accordance with state law, violations in conduct by students going to and from school functionscould result in disciplinary action. School rules and other reasonable expectations of acceptablestudent behavior are extended to include student conduct while off campus duringthe regular school day. This includes the student’s conduct while going to and from school andrelease periods. A student may be disciplined by the school for any misconduct while off campusat the times specified above.Parking_ __________________________________________Mountain Pointe High School is not responsible for loss resulting from damage ortheft of contents of student’s vehicles.• Parking tags are non-transferable. Students and/or parents cannot sell or give away parking rights.• Parking rules will be enforced for the safety of the drivers and pedestrians. Violations mayresult in the loss of parking privileges and/or school discipline.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 24

• Students will be assigned parking spaces. The permit displayed in the car must match the parkingspace number.• Students must have their parking permits displayed at all times while on campus.• If a student has early release, s/he must provide a student ID in order to leave campus.• Students are encouraged to car pool if parents find this acceptable, however, the driveris responsible for passenger behavior. Parking privileges may be lost due to passengermisbehavior.• Loss of parking privileges may include, but are not limited to the following: Reckless driving,transporting alcohol, illegal substances or weapons, failure to drive courteously, failure toprovide adequate seating for passengers, failure to respond to school rules and authorities,intentionally damaging other vehicles, and leaving campus without approval.Fee/RefundsThe parking permit fee is $85. This fee is good for the entire school year.• Students who transfer before the semester begins will receive a full refund, thereafter, refundswill be pro-rated.• If a student has early release, s/he must provide a student ID in order to leave campus.• Students who forfeit their parking privileges due to infractions of school rules will not receivea refund.Note: Students without parking permits will not be permitted to park on campus.Pedestrian Safety__________________________________Students are expected to cross streets at the crosswalks. Concern for the safety of studentswhile walking as well as driving requires that this procedure be followed.Release Hours_____________________________________Seniors only may have up to two release periods and must be enrolled in four credit-bearingclasses. In order to leave campus during the school day, seniors must display a release sticker ontheir school ID. These can be obtained from Student Services.Senior Walk_______________________________________Senior Walk honors Mountain Pointe seniors who have made outstanding contributions to theMountain Pointe community. If selected, honoree names will appear in a special program, willappear on the Senior Walk banner and be honored during the Homecoming Assembly and duringhalftime at the Homecoming football game. Homecoming King and queen are selected frommembers of Senior Walk and are crowned during halftime at the game.Senior Walk candidates must meet certain criteria and students need to begin their freshmanyear in order to qualify:• 3.25 GPA• No history of serious or chronic discipline or attendance issues.• Participated in documented community service during each year of high school. Students musthave 30 hours each year and have documented community service with at least three differentorganizations/places.• Have been involved in two extracurricular sports and/or activities each year at MPHS.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 25

Skateboards_______________________________________Skateboards are not allowed inside the school building. MPHS lockers cannot accommodateskateboards. At their own risk, students may store skateboards in the bicycle rack.Student Records___________________________________1. Parents or guardians have the legal right to examine the records of their student(s).If parents or guardians wish, they may be accompanied by one other person of theirchoosing at the time the student’s records are reviewed. Parents or guardians have theright to question, in writing, the accuracy of any item in the student’s records; this writtenresponse shall be attached to the disputed item.2. TUHSD will provide a hearing to challenge information in education records to ensurethat such information is not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacyor other rights of the student.3. Any hearings held will be conducted according to TUHSD policy, which is in accordancewith the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Of 1974 and the implementing regulations.Study Hall_________________________________________Mountain Pointe High School strives to have all students enrolled in six credit-bearing classes.However, in some cases, a study hall class becomes necessary. Attendance policies, proceduresand consequences apply.Technology Use ___________________________________The Tempe Union High School District requires that all students and a parent/guardian sign adistrict technology use agreement before using school computers. The technology use agreementform can be found in the TUHSD. Student Policies and Regulations handbook. Studentswho violate the technology use policy will lose computer privileges.The purpose of school computers and equipment is for educational use only. Studentuse of computers and equipment is a privilege, not a right. Any other use of school computerswill result in loss of computer use privileges for an entire school year. A second offensewill result in loss of computer use privileges for the remainder of your high school years.Personal laptops are NOT allowed on campus.Inappropriate Technology use may consist of, but is not limited to the following:• Printing more than one copy of work• Unplugging peripherals• Trying to access inappropriate websites• Attempting to access the district network• Making, using, or distributing pirated copies of software• Changing folder names or file names• Sending inappropriate messages or graphics• Negligently handling video, audio, or other electronic equipment• Theft and vandalizing of hardware, software, or equipment• Loading any files or software on a school computer• Saving on the hard drive – save to “Z” drive onlyMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 26

• Playing CD music on computers without teacher permission• Playing games (including website based games)• Entering chat rooms• Sending instant messages• Logging into or attempting to access another person’s account• Giving your password to other students• Using another student’s passwordTelephone Calls____________________________________Pay telephones are provided for student use at Mountain Pointe. Calls should be limited to oneminute in length. Phone messages will not be delivered except in the case of an emergency.Transportation_ ___________________________________Students who walk, drive their own car, ride with another student, or ride a school bus to orfrom school are expected to exhibit good behavior. Mountain Pointe High School has the authorityto correct any act of misbehavior that may take place as students travel to and from school.Misbehavior while traveling will be dealt with in accordance with the severity and frequency ofthe incidents.School Bus ConductBus transportation will be available to students living outside a two mile radius of the school.Open Enrollment students are not permitted to ride district buses. Bus route informationmay obtained by calling the District Office at (480) 345-3781.Bus RegulationsRiding a school bus is a privilege, not a right. The student who persists in misbehaving on schoolbuses jeopardizes the safety of everyone on the bus and may lose the privilege of riding the bus.The bus driver is responsible for maintaining discipline on the bus and in this capacity has theauthority to assign seats and to make other reasonable demands of students. Any necessarydiscipline will be administered by a principal. Bus drivers may deliver a misbehaving student toa school principal or to the police before finishing the route in extreme circumstances. Onceprivileges are lost, that student cannot ride any bus for the duration of the suspension. Studentswill only be put off the bus at the bus stop or at school.Bus Conduct1. Passengers must remain seated at all times while the bus is in motion.2. The bus driver may assign seats.3. Be courteous.4. No profanity.5. DO NOT eat or drink on the bus. Keep the bus clean.6. No smoking.7. Keep all body parts and objects inside the bus.8. Do not throw anything inside or outside the bus.9. All instruments and equipment carried by passengers shall be under their control at alltimes and carried in their laps, between seats, or properly secured in a vacant seat. Nothingshall be placed in the driver’s compartment or the stepwell.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 27

10. The aisle is to be open and passable at all times.11. No harmful objects and substances allowed on the bus at any time. This includes drugs,tobacco, alcohol, weapons, glass containers, pets, radios, skate boards, etc.12. Cleats and spikes are not allowed on the bus at any time.13. Do not destroy property. Students will be charged for damages.14. For your own safety, do not distract the bus driver through misbehavior!Misbehavior on the bus can result in removal from the bus for 1 to 10 days, depending on circumstances,or permanent removal from the bus by formal hearing at discretion of the principal.Serious misbehavior on the bus may include suspension or expulsion from school.Rules while at the bus stop1. Be at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is due to arrive. The driver will notwait at the bus stop past the arrival time. If the bus driver arrives early to the stop he/shewill wait until the scheduled time of arrival.2. Always walk to the bus stop. Never run.3. Stop and look both ways if you must cross the street.4. Respect private property. Do not throw trash, bottles, cups, etc. on the ground.5. While at the bus stop, wait quietly well away from the road.6. Smoking is not permitted at the bus stop.7. When the bus approaches, stand at least six (6) feet away from the curb, and line up awayfrom the street without crowding or pushing.Visitor Information________________________________Parent visitors to Mountain Pointe High School are welcome during business hours which areMonday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. All visitors must receive permission fromthe administration to be on campus. Visitors must report to the main office immediately uponarrival on campus and receive a visitor pass. No one is allowed to come on campus and talk witha student except his/her parents or guardians.Visitors other than parents or guardians who are on campus for this reason will beasked to leave. In order to preserve the learning environment, students are not to bringvisitors or children with them to school.Voice Mail_________________________________________Mountain Pointe has a voice mail system with which to communicate with parents, students andcommunity members. The messaging system is not meant to take the place of personal interaction.Rather, it is hoped the system will enhance the ease with which we are able to communicate.To access the system, dial (480) 759-8449 and follow the tutorial message. Please listen to theentire message before making your selection. If at any time you have trouble or need to speakwith a “live” person, simply dial 0. Mountain Pointe’s voice mail system includes an attendanceline and faculty/staff voice mailboxes.Volunteers_ _______________________________________Mountain Pointe’s volunteer program utilizes the donated time and energy of parents and communitymembers. Volunteers can be seen helping out as clerical aides, nurses aides, classroomaides and a variety of other capacities around campus. All of us at MPHS are truly indebtedto these generous people. If parents would like to volunteer, please talk to the VolunteerCoordinator at (480) 759-6123.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 28

Student DisciplineMountain Pointe High SchoolCode of DisciplineMountain Pointe High School is committed to the development of the whole person; intellectualand physical, with emphasis on the development of good character. With this in mind, MountainPointe embraces high expectations for students in the classroom, activities and athletics. By strivingto achieve these expectations, students will develop the necessary self-discipline and learningcompetencies required for continued success in the world of higher education and in theircareers. In addition, these beliefs help to ensure a positive classroom and school environment;one that is safe, orderly and supportive of learning. The disciplinary guidelines in the handbookenable the staff to maintain this level of expectation, and it is important that parents and studentsunderstand the individual responsibility and accountability required for maintaining civility in allaspects of life at Mountain Pointe High School.Discipline is divided among three of Mountain Pointe’s Assistant Principal’s as follows:All Freshmen and Juniors A–Gom...................... Ian Moses, AthleticsAll Sophmores and Juniors Nh–Z ..................... Patricia Goolsby, ActivitiesAll Seniors and Juniors Gon–Ng......................... Arthur J. Wagner, Student ServicesMPHS utilizes several forms of disciplinary consequences including:• After-School Detention (ASD)ASD is utilized as a lower level disciplinary consequence. When assigned ASD, the studentreports to a classroom within the school that is maintained as a strictly quiet area where thestudent works on assignments. Students are not allowed to sleep, talk, or be unoccupied. Thefocus is on utilizing time to complete school work.• In-School Suspension (ISS)ISS may be utilized as an alternative to out-of-school suspension which is prescribed by MountainPointe High School disciplinary procedures. The administrator may elect to assign ISS asa means of providing a constructive, educationally related consequence for specific disciplinecategories. When assigned ISS, the student reports to a classroom within the school that ismaintained as a strictly quiet area where the student works on assignments that are broughtto the ISS room. Students are not allowed to sleep, talk, or be unoccupied. Students remain inthe ISS room for the periods or dates assigned. Lunch and bathroom breaks will be supervised.The focus is on utilizing time to complete school work. ISS is supervised by a staff member atall times.• Off-Campus Suspension (OCS)OCS is used for higher level/chronic discipline (10 days or less). When suspended, studentscannot participate in any school-related activity or be on any campus in the Tempe Union HighSchool District. Any work missed can be made up for full credit and the absence(s) does notcount against the five allowed per the attendance policy.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 29

Guidelines for Selected Offenses andRecommended Minimum DisciplineThese are minimum recommended disciplinary guidelines for some examples of misconduct.Depending on the circumstances of the offense and history of the offender, actual discipline maybe greater at the administrator’s discretion.Profanity1st.......Counseling, probation, and up to 3 hours of detention2nd......Up to 1 day suspension or detention3rd......3 to 10 day suspension or detentionInsubordination - refusal to follow a reasonable request of a staff member1st.......Detention and up to 5 day suspension2nd......10 day suspension3rd......Semester suspensionCheating on test or assignment1st.......Zero points on test or assignment and up to 5 day detention2nd......Removal from class with final grade of FUnauthorized presence on, or in the vicinity of, another school campus1st.......Counseling and probation2nd......1 to 3 day suspension3rd......3 to 5 day suspensionGambling1st.......Counseling and probation2nd......1 to 3 day suspension3rd......3 to 5 day suspensionFalsifying or forging school documents1st.......1 day suspension2nd......3 day suspension3rd......5 day to semester suspensionSmoking and/or use of tobacco on campus1st.......2 day suspension2nd......3 day suspension3rd......5 to 10 day suspensionTheft/vandalism/extortion1st.......Student is subject to suspension or expulsion, depending on the severity of the offense(police referral)Involvement in a potential disturbance on or in the vicinity of another campus1st.......Student is subject to suspension or expulsion, depending on the severity of the offense(police referral)Fighting (mutual combat)1st.......3 to 5 day suspension2nd......Semester suspensionMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 30

Possession or use of articles designed to disrupt the educational process1st.......Confiscation of articles and 3 to 5 hour detention2nd......1 to 3 day suspension3rd......5 day suspensionPossession and/or use of fireworks1st.......1 to 3 day suspension (police referral)2nd......Semester suspension (police referral)3rd......Recommend expulsion (police referral)Possession and/or use of explosive devices other than fireworks1st.......Semester suspension (police referral)2nd......Recommend expulsion (police referral)Endangering health, welfare or safety of others; any act that disrupts the normaleducational process1st.......Student is subject to counseling, probation, detention, suspension, or expulsion dependingon the severity of the offense. (police referral)Criminal involvement in an off-campus offense indicating that the offender is likelyto pose a threat to the safety or welfare of students or staff members or impairthe normal educational process or educational climate1st.......Student is subject to counseling, probation, detention, suspension, or expulsion dependingon the severity of the offense. (police referral)Use of, distribution of, and/or being under the influence of illegal drugs, narcotics,or alcohol1st.......10 day suspension to recommendation for expulsion, depending on the severity ofthe offense. If the recommendation is for a suspension, the parent and student maychoose to participate in (and complete) a drug abuse counseling program, approved bythe principal, in order to return to school after ten days of suspension. If at the conclusionof ten days of suspension, if the principal has not received a letter verifying thatthe drug abuse counseling program has been or is nearly completed to the principal’ssatisfaction, the disciplinary consequence will then become a semester suspension. Ifthe recommendation is for expulsion, participation in a drug counseling program willnot lessen the recommendation.2nd......Semester suspension to recommendation for expulsion. If the recommendation is fora semester suspension, to be eligible to return to school, the student must test negativeon a drug test pursuant to the district’s “Procedures for Testing,” and complete adrug abuse counseling program as determined by the District or its designee.3rd......Recommend expulsion.Possession of illegal drugs, narcotics, or alcohol1st.......10 day to semester suspension with required counseling of both student and parent.Such counseling program must be approved by the principal and be completed duringa time period acceptable to the principal. If at the conclusion of this time period, theprincipal has not received a letter verifying that this program has been completed, thedisciplinary consequence will then become a semester suspension. (police referral).2nd......Semester suspension (police referral)To be eligible to return to school, the student must test negative on a drug test pursuantto the district’s “Procedures for Testing,” and complete a drug abuse counselingprogram as determined by the District or its designee3rd......Recommend expulsionMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 31

Possession of drug paraphernalia1st.......10 day to semester suspension with required counseling of both student and parent.Such counseling program must be approved by the principal and be completed duringa time period acceptable to the principal. If at the conclusion of this time period, theprincipal has not received a letter verifying that this program has been completed, thedisciplinary consequence will then become a semester suspension. (police referral)2nd......Semester suspension (police referral)To be eligible to return to school, the student must test negative on a drug test pursuantto the district’s “Procedures for Testing,” and complete a drug abuse counselingprogram as determined by the District or its designee.3rd......Recommend expulsion (police referral)Hazing (See complete definition)1st.......3 to 5 day suspension and completion of district-approved sensitivity counseling program2nd......Semester suspension (reducible to 10 days with parent/guardian and student completionof district-approved sensitivity counseling program.. If an offense is particularly egregious, discipline may be moved to a higher level. After asecond offense, behavior may be viewed as discrimination. (See definition) (Police referralswill be made when applicable.)Intimidation of or threatening another person1st.......Student is subject to counseling, probation, detention, suspension, or expulsion dependingon the severity of the offense. (police referral)Intimidation of or threatening a staff member1st.......Student is subject to counseling, probation, detention, suspension, or expulsion dependingon the severity of the offense. (police referral)Intimidation, threatening and/or bullying1st.......Student is subject to counseling, probation, detention, suspension, or expulsion dependingon the severity of the offense. (police referral)Physical assault of a student1st.......10 day suspension (police referral)2nd......Semester suspension (police referral)3rd......Recommend expulsion (police referral)Physical abuse of a staff member1st.......Semester suspension (police referral)2nd......Recommend expulsion (police referral)Physical assault of a student which results in physical injury necessitating medicalattention1st.......Semester suspension (police referral)2nd......Recommend expulsion (police referral)Possession of a weapon (other than a firearm) or dangerous instrument capable ofintimidating or inflicting bodily harm to another person1st.......Confiscation and up to one semester suspension (police referral)2nd......Recommend expulsion (police referral)Threatening bodily harm on another person with a weapon or dangerous instrument1st.......Semester suspension (police referral)2nd......Recommend expulsion (police referral)MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 32

Use of a dangerous weapon resulting in the infliction of bodily harm on another person1st.......Recommend expulsion (police referral)Threat to educational institution1st.......Recommend expulsion (police referral)A student who is determined by the administration to have threatened an educationalinstitution shall be recommended to the Governing Board for expulsion for at leastone year except that the administration may modify this expulsion recommendationrequirement for a student on a case-by-case basis, in the sole discretion of the administration,if the student agrees to participate in mediation, community service, restitutionor other program(s) established by the administration in which the student takesresponsibility for the threat and for the results of the threat.Mandatory Discipline for Specified OffensesThe Tempe Union High School District maintains a zero-tolerance policy for the following infractionsand prescribes the following mandatory guidelines for discipline:Harassing and/or discriminatory conduct relating to an individual’s race, color,religion, national origin, or disability. (See complete definition on next page.)1st.......5 day suspension and completion of district-approved sensitivity counseling program2nd......Semester suspension (reducible to 10 days with parent/guardian and student completionof district-approved sensitivity counseling program). If an offense is particularlyegregious, discipline may be moved to a higher level. After a second offense, behaviormay be viewed as discrimination (see definition). (Police referrals will be made whenapplicable)Harassing and/or discriminatory conduct relating to an individual’s gender.1st.......3 to 5 day suspension and completion of district-approved sensitivity counseling program2nd......Semester suspension (reducible to 10 days with parent/guardian and student completionof district-approved sensitivity counseling program). If an offense is particularlyegregious, discipline may be moved to a higher level. After a second offense, behaviormay be viewed as discrimination (see definition). (Police referrals will be made whenapplicable)Discrimination - When harassing and/or discriminatory behavior becomes sufficientlysevere, persistent or pervasive to limit a student’s ability to participatein or benefit from the education program or create an intimidating, hostile or offensiveeducational environment, it shall be deemed to be discrimination, not justharassing conduct. (See definition)1st.......Semester suspension2nd......Recommended expulsion – If an offense is particularly egregious, discipline may bemoved to a higher level. (Police referrals will be made when applicable.)Possession of a loaded or unloaded, operable or inoperable firearm (gun) or anyother device capable of propelling a lethal projectile, whether by explosive ormechanical means.1st....... Recommend expulsion (police referral)Sale of or possession with the intent to sell narcotics, illegal drugs or alcohol1st .......... Recommend expulsion (police referral)Physical assault of a staff member1st .......... Recommend expulsion (police referral)MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 33

Definitions of Selected OffensesBullying – The use of language or conduct that is threatening and/or intimidating, that involvesan imbalance of power or strength, and that is repeated over time.Cheating - Using or attempting to use unauthorized materials or technology, unauthorizedgroup work, information or study aids in any academic exercise or assignment. Fabrication involvesthe falsification or invention of any information or citation in an academic exercise orassignment. Plagiarism refers to using another’s words, ideas, materials or work without acknowledgingand documenting the source. Students are responsible for knowing the rules governingthe use of another’s work, and for acknowledging and documenting the source appropriately.Distribution – The act of giving or selling substances (including drugs, narcotics or alcohol),including the passing of articles from one person to another.Drug Paraphernalia – Drug paraphernalia includes, without limitation, items so defined inA.R.S. 13-3415, and any equipment, product, or material of any kind that is used, intended for use,or designed for use in planting, propagating, cultivating, growing, harvesting, manufacturing, compounding,converting, producing, processing, preparing, testing, analyzing, packaging, repackaging,storing, containing, concealing, injecting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing into the human bodya drug in violation of the law or this regulation.Extortion - Attempting to obtain or obtaining money or property by threat or force.Harassing and/or Discriminatory Conduct - For the purposes of this policy, harassing and/or discriminatory conduct is oral, written, graphic or physical conduct relating to an individual’sgender, race, color, religion, religious beliefs, ethnicity, national origin (including an individual’sancestry, country of origin, or country of origin of the student’s parents, family members, orancestors) or disability, that is sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent so as to interfere withor limit the ability of an individual to participate in or benefit from the district’s programs oractivities. Harassment may be evident from the explicit statements of the perpetrator or may beinferred from the surrounding circumstances.A hostile environment is created by behaviors such as the following when based upon, relatedto, or motivated by an individual’s gender, race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, religiousbeliefs, or disability:• Intimidation and implied or overt threats of physical violence;• Physical acts of aggression or assault upon another, or damage to another’s property;• Demeaning jokes, taunting, slurs, derogatory nicknames or innuendoes.• Words that by their very utterance inflict injury or tend to incite an immediate breach of thepeace 2 . (Reference Governing Board Policies JB and JFCL.)Hazing – Any intentional, knowing or reckless act committed by a student, whether individuallyor in concert with other persons, against another student, and in which both of the followingapply: a) The act was committed in connection with an initiation into, an affiliation with orthe maintenance of membership in any organization that is affiliated with the District; b) Theact contributes to a substantial risk of potential physical injury, mental harm or degradation orcauses physical injury, mental harm or personal degradationIntimidation - Use of language or conduct to frighten or attempt to frighten or coerce anotherperson into submission or obedience.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 34

Physical Abuse - Intentional or reckless touching of another person that does not result inphysical injury.Physical Assault - Intentional or reckless causing of physical injury to another or touchinganother person intending to injure, insult or provoke. Includes taking or attempting to takeanything by force or threat of force and intentional use of a vehicle in a manner dangerous toperson or property.Property Damage - Intentional or reckless injury or abuse to the property of another.Sexual Harassment - Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and/or anyother verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature made by a student to another student or bya student to a staff member. (Reference Governing Board Policy ACA)Theft - The taking or attempted taking of property belonging to another person without permission.Petty theft involves property with a value less than $100. Grand theft involves propertywith a value of $100 or more.Threat - Use of language or conduct to make or attempt to make another person fearful ofphysical injury.Vandalism - Willful destruction or damage of property.Verbal abuse - Use of profane or disrespectful language to insult or humiliate another person.Adopted: February 21, 1991Last Revised: May 20, 2008CROSS REF.: JFCF – Hazing, JFCG – Smoking by Students, JFCH – Alcohol Use by Students,JFCI – Drug Abuse by Students, JFCJ – Dangerous Weapons on School DistrictProperty, JGD/JGE/JFA – Student Suspension and Expulsion/Due Process Rights2 “Fighting words” as defined by the United States Supreme Court in Chaplinsky v. New Hampshire,315 U.S. 568, 571-72 (1942).Tempe UnionHigh School District500 West Guadalupe Road • Tempe, Arizona 85283 • (480) 839-0292MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 35

Arizona State StandardsWriting StandardsStrand 1: Writing Process• Concept 1: PrewritingPrewriting includes using strategies to generate,plan, and organize ideas for specific purposes.• Concept 2: DraftingDrafting incorporates prewriting activities to createa first draft containing necessary elements fora specific purpose.• Concept 3: RevisingRevising includes evaluating and refining the roughdraft for clarity and effectiveness. (Ask: Does thisdraft say what you want it to say?)• Concept 4: EditingEditing includes proofreading and correcting thedraft for conventions.• Concept 5: PublishingPublishing involves formatting and presenting a finalproduct for the intended audience.Strand 2: Writing Components• Concept 1: Ideas and ContentWriting is clear and focused, holding the reader’sattention throughout. Main ideas stand out and aredeveloped by strong support and rich details. Purposeis accomplished.• Concept 2: OrganizationOrganization addresses the structure of the writingand integrates the central meaning and patternsthat hold the piece together.• Concept 3: VoiceVoice will vary according to the type of piece, butshould be appropriately formal or casual, distantor personal, depending on the audience and purpose.• Concept 4: Word ChoiceWord choice reflects the writer’s use of specificwords and phrases to convey the intended messageand employs a variety of words that arefunctional and appropriate to the audience andpurpose.• Concept 5: Sentence FluencyFluency addresses the rhythm and flow of language.Sentences are strong and varied in structure andlength.• Concept 6: ConventionsConventions addresses the mechanics of writing,including capitalization, punctuation, spelling, grammarand usage, and paragraph breaks.Strand 3: Writing Applications• Concept 1: ExpressiveExpressive writing includes personal narratives,stories, poetry, songs, and dramatic pieces. Writingmay be based on real or imagined events.• Concept 2: ExpositoryExpository writing includes non-fiction writingthat describes, explains, or summarizes ideas andcontent. The writing supports a thesis based onresearch, observation, and/or experience.• Concept 3: FunctionalFunctional writing provides specific directions orinformation related to real-world tasks. This includesletters, memos, schedules, directories, signs,manuals, forms, recipes, and technical pieces forspecific content areas.• Concept 4: PersuasivePersuasive writing is used for the purpose of influencingthe reader. The author presents an issueand expresses an opinion in order to convince anaudience to agree with the opinion or to take aparticular action.• Concept 5: Literary ResponseLiterary response is the writer’s reaction to a literaryselection. The response includes the writer’sinterpretation, analysis, opinion, and/or feelingsabout the piece of literature and selected elementswithin it.• Concept 6: ResearchResearch writing is a process in which the writeridentifies a topic or question to be answered. Thewriter locates and evaluates information aboutthe topic or question, and then organizes, summarizes,and synthesizes the information into afinished product.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 36

Arizona State StandardsReadingStrand 1: Reading Process• Concept 1: Print ConceptsDemonstrate understanding of print concepts.• Concept 2: Phonemic AwarenessIdentify and manipulate the sounds of speech.• Concept 3: PhonicsDecode words using knowledge of phonics, syllabication,and word parts• Concept 4: VocabularyAcquire and use new vocabulary in relevant contexts.• Concept 5: FluencyRead fluently.• Concept 6: Comprehension StrategiesEmploy strategies to comprehend text.Strand 2: ComprehendingLiterary Text• Concept 1: Elements of LiteratureIdentify, analyze, and apply knowledge of the structuresand elements of literature.• Concept 2: Historical and CulturalAspects of LiteratureRecognize and apply knowledge of the historicaland cultural aspects of American, British, andworld literature.Strand 3: ComprehendingInformational Text• Concept 1: Expository TextIdentify, analyze, and apply knowledge of the purpose,structures, and elements of expository text.• Concept 2: Functional TextIdentify, analyze, and apply knowledge of the purpose,structures, clarity, and relevancy of functionaltext based on research, observation, and/orexperience.• Concept 3: Persuasive TextExplain basic elements of argument in text andtheir relationship to the author’s purpose and useof persuasive strategies.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 37

Arizona State StandardsMathematicsStrand 1: Number Sense& Operations• Concept 1: Number SenseUnderstand and apply numbers, ways of representingnumbers, the relationships among numbers.• Concept 2: Numerical OperationsUnderstand and apply numerical operations andtheir relationships to one another.• Concept 3: EstimationUse estimation strategies.Strand 2: Data Analysis,Probability, & Discrete Math• Concept 1: Data Analysis (Statistics)Understand and apply data collection, organizationand representation to analyze and sort data.• Concept 2: ProbabilityUnderstand and apply the basic concepts of probability.• Concept 3: Discrete Math –Systematic Listing and CountingUnderstand the systematic listing and counting ofpossible outcomes.Strand 3: Patterns, Algebra,& Functions• Concept 1: PatternsIdentify patterns and apply pattern recognition.• Concept 2: Functions and RelationshipsDescribe and model functions and their relationships.• Concept 3: Algebraic RepresentationsRepresent and analyze mathematical situations usingalgebraic representations.• Concept 4: Analysis of ChangeAnalyze change in a variable over time.Strand 4: Geometry& Measurement• Concept 1: Geometric PropertiesAnalyze 2- and 3-dimensional shapes and developmathematical arguments about their relationships.• Concept 2: Transformation of ShapesApply spatial reasoning to create transformationsand use symmetry to analyze mathematical situations.• Concept 3: Coordinate GeometrySpecify and describe spatial relationships using coordinategeometry.• Concept 4: Measurements –Units of Measure – Geometric ShapesUnderstand and apply appropriate units of measure,measurement techniques, and formulas todetermine measurements.Strand 5: Structure & Logic• Concept 1:Algorithms and Algorithmic ThinkingUse reasoning to solve mathematical problems incontextual situations.• Concept 2: Logic, Reasoning, Arguments,and Mathematical ProofsEvaluate situations, select problem-solving strategies,draw logical conclusions, develop and describesolutions and recognize their applications.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 38

Arizona State StandardsScienceStrand 1: Inquiry Processs Concept 1: Observations, Questions,& HypothesesFormulate predictions, questions, or hypothesesbased on observations.s Concept 2: Scientific Testing(Investigating and Modeling)Design and conduct controlled investigations.s Concept 3: Analysis, Conclusions,& RefinementsEvaluate experimental design, analyze data to explainresults and propose further investigations.s Concept 4: CommunicationCommunicate results of investigations.Strand 2:History & Nature of Sciences Concept 1: History of Scienceas a Human EndeavorIdentify individual, cultural, and technological contributions.s Concept 2: Nature of Scientific KnowledgeUnderstand how science is a process for generatingknowledge.Strand 3: Science in Personal& Social Perspectivess Concept 1: Changes in EnvironmentsDescribe the interactions between human populationsand the environment.s Concept 2: Science & Technology in SocietyDevelop viable solutions to a need or problem.s Concept 3:Human Population CharacteristicsAnalyze factors that affect human populations.Strand 4: Life Sciences Concept 1: The CellUnderstand the role of the cell and cellular processes.s Concept 2: Molecular Basis of HeredityUnderstand the molecular basis of heredity andresulting genetic diversity.s Concept 3: Interdependence of OrganismsAnalyze the relationships among various organismsand their environments.s Concept 4: Biological EvolutionUnderstand the scientific principles and processesinvolved in biological evolution.s Concept 5:Matter, Energy & Organization in LivingSystems (Including Human Systems)Understand the organization of living systems, andthe role of energy within those systems.Strand 5: Physical Sciences Concept 1: Structure & Properties ofMatterUnderstand physical, chemical, and atomic propertiesof matter.s Concept 2: Motions & ForcesAnalyze relationships between forces and motion.s Concept 3: Conservation of Energy& Increase in DisorderUnderstand ways that energy is conserved, stored,and transferred.s Concept 4: Chemical ReactionsInvestigate relationships between reactants andproducts in chemical reactions.s Concept 5: Interactions of Energy& MatterUnderstand the interactions of energy and matter.Strand 6:Earth & Space Sciencess Concept 1: Geochemical CyclesAnalyze the interactions between the Earth’sstructures, atmosphere, and geochemical cycles.s Concept 2: Energy in the Earth System(Both Internal and External)Understand the relationships between the Earth’sland masses, oceans, and atmosphere.s Concept 3: Origin & Evolutionof the Earth SystemAnalyze the factors used to explain the historyand evolution of the Earth.s Concept 4: Origin & Evolutionof the UniverseAnalyze the factors used to explain the origin andevolution of the universe.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 39

A u g u s t 2 0 0 96/15/2009Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat27 JULY 28 JULY 29 JULY 30 31 1Band Camp July 27-31Band Camp Aug. 3-8Football Tryouts begin34 5Special Education New StudentOrientation 6:00pm C141New Student Orientation6:30pm – Auditorium6 7D i s t r i c tH a n d b o o kS c h o o l P l a n n e rH o n o r C o d eMarching BandSeason Preview81 st qt. begins 10Fall sport tryouts begin11 12 13 14Campus Council 7:00am“Pump It Up”Stud. Co. & VIPs151718 1920 2122*Football Scrimmage 6PMHandbook Forms DUEDance Co. Parent Mtg.6pm PE Lecture HallPride Board Meeting6:00pm G10324Sr. Parent College Info.5:00 p.m-6:15 p.m.Open House6:30 – 8:30pm3125 267:15am Frosh Election Mtg. E206½ Day Staff Dev.Volunteer Roundup9am – PE Lecture Hall27Welcome BackAssemblyVideo NewscastFB: Dobson (Away)2829MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 40

S e p t e m b e r 2 0 0 96/15/2009Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat1 2CLUB RUSHUnderclass PicturesCLUB RUSH3Campus Council 7:00amUnderclass PicturesFB: Highland (Home)4578 9 10 1112Labor Day HolidayFrosh Elections - lunchesFB: Basha (Home)14Tukee Bowl Spirit WeekSite Council 5:15pm G109Wind Ens/Orch Fall Concert7pm Aud.1516Pride Board Mtg. 6pm G10317FB: Tukee Bowl @ DV 7:00pm1819½ DayStaff Development21Symphonic Band/Jazz BandConcert 7pm Aud.22Jostens Senior Orders23Rosh Hashanah begins24 25DECA Camp in Heber 9/25-27FB: Casa Grande (away)LionheartMarching BandInvitational26Homecoming Week28Jostens collects orders 29Jostens collects orders 30HC: Movie NightHC: Music NightYom Kippur continuesChoir Fall Concert 7pm AUD.MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 41

O c t o b e r 2 0 0 9Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat6/15/2009HC: Assembly Practice1Yearbook retakesHomecoming AssemblyNewscast VideoHC: ParadeHC: Tailgate 5-7pm2Homecoming Dance8:00pm – 11:00pm3FB: vs Skyline (home)5 6 7 8 End of 1 st qt. 9Campus Council 7:00am10FB: Bye12 13 14 15 16FB: Desert Ridge (away)PSAT 17F a l l B r e a k19 20 21222324Pride Board Meeting6:00pm G103Instate College NightAUD. 6:30pmDig Pink in Tukee (MP hosts)FB: Westwood (Home)Ahwatukee CommunityFairDECA Fall Conference262728 Jostens collects orders 29 Jostens collects orders 3031Site Council 5:15pm G109AIMS Retakes(Jrs & Srs: Aud/PE)AIMS Retakes(Jrs & Srs:Aud/PE)AIMS Retakes(Jrs & Srs: Aud/PE)BOO! CubbiesTrick or TreatHappy Halloween!FB: Perry (Home)MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 42

N o v e m b e r 2 0 0 9Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat6/15/20092Winter sports tryouts begin3 4½ DayStaff Development5Campus Council 7:00am679 10 11Veteran’s DayNo school - holidayDrama Prod. Aud. 7pmASVAB Test (Aud.)12Drama Prod. Aud. 3:30pmFB: Marcos (Away)Market Day13Drama Prod. Aud. 7pmPLAN test 14(cafeteria)16 17 18Relay for Life Kick OffCafeteria 6:30pmClub Picture Day19Club Picture Day20Marching BandStadium Echoes21Pride Board Meeting6:00pm G103Dance Concert Aud. 7PM23Dance Concert Aud. 7PM24 25 26ThanksgivingDance Concert Aud. 7PM2728Site Council 5:15pm G109Holiday30MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 43

D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 96/15/2009Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat1 2Jostens for Srs. stillneeding to orderNHS Induction CeremonyAud. 7:00pmChoir Concert Aud. 7pm3Campus Council 7:00am4Winter Formal“Snowcoming”8PM - 11PM57 89 101112Symphonic & Jazz BandConcert AUD. 7:00pmWind Ens. Orchestra,A Cappella Choir Concert –7:00pm AUD.Wind Ens. Orchestra,A Cappella Choir Concert –7:00pm AUD.14 15 16171819SEMESTEREXAMSTeacher WorkdayPride Board Mtg. 6:00pm21 22 23 24 25 26W i n t e r H o l i d a y28 29 30 31Happy New Year!MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 44

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 06/15/2009Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat1 2W i n t e r H o l i d a yReturn to schoolSemester II – 3 rd qtr.Student Council7:15am PE Lec. Hall(meets every Mondaythroughout the year)45 6 7 8Campus Council 7:00amCoaches Mtg 7:15am –PE Lecture Hall911 12 13141516Art Show Set UpMPHS Art ShowClub Pictures IIWelcome Back Assembly IIVideo NewscastCivil Right’s Day(No School – MLK Day)1819 20Pride Board – 6pm G10321 22Registration Materials duein English classes23WindEnsemble/Orchestra:Music Outreach Clinic &Concert w/MiddleSchoolsTennis tryouts beginCurriculum Night6:00pm25Site Council 5:15pm G10926 27Half-DayStaff Development28 29Solo & Ensemble@ MP(RegionalFestivalHSAuditions)30MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 45

F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 0+Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat1 2 3 4 56/15/20096Campus Council 7:30amSpring sports tryoutsbeginHalf-DayDistrict In-Service89 10 11 12Talent Show 7pmAuditoriumCoronation Dance8-11pm13Presidents’ Day(Holiday)1516171819 20Symphonic & Jazz BandConcert AUD. 7:00pmPride Board – 6pm G103Wind Ens./Orchestra ConcertAUD. 7:00pm2223AIMS Testing(Auditorium/PELec Hall)24AIMS Testing(Auditorium/PELec Hall)2526 27Site Council 5:15pm G109Choir Concert AUD. 7:00pmMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 46

M a r c h 2 0 1 06/16/2009Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri SatDECA State Conference1Make Up AIMSWritingDECA State Conference23Student Body Election meeting7:15am E206Make Up AIMSReading4 5Campus Council 7:00amMR. PRIDE IIIAuditorium 6:30pmBest Buddies Prom(in the small gym)68 9 10 111213Cap & Gown PicsCap & Gown Pics15 16 17 18 19 20S p r i n g B r e a k22 23 24Half DayStaff DevelopmentPride Board Meeting6:00pm G10325Jostens Sr Deliveryfor GraduationSpring Musical: AUD. 7:00pm26Jostens Sr Deliveryfor GraduationStudent Body Elections:(lunches)Spring Musical: AUD. 7:00pmSpring Musical: AUD.7:00pm272930 31Class Election Meeting7:15am E206Site Council 5:15pm G109MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 47

A p r i l 2 0 1 0Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat1 No School 2 36/15/2009Language Honor SocietyInduction 6PM56 7AIMS Math/Terranova Testing(AUD/PE)AIMS Science(AUD/PE)8Campus Council 7:00am910Just Because Dance8-11pm12 1314 15 1617AIMS Math make upPE Lecture HallMarket DayClass Elections - lunches19Wind Ens./Orch./Symph. BandConcert: AUD. 7:00pm20 21Pride Board Meeting6:00pm G10322 23*DECA InternationalConference ( 4/23-28 )Prom/Spring SportsAssemblyVideo Newscast8 th Grade ParentWorkshop 11:00amAuditorium242627 28 2930EXCELLENCE AWARDS7PM – AUDITORIUM(9-12)Spring Dance ConcertAUD. 7:00pmSpring Dance ConcertAUD. 7:00pmMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 48

M a y 2 0 1 06/15/2009Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat1PROM 8 - 12345678AP TestingAP TestingAP TestingAP TestingAP TestingSite Council 5:15pm G109CHOIR POPS CONCERT 7PMCampus Council 7:00amCHOIR POPS CONCERT3:30PM & 7PM101112131415AP TestingAP TestingA P T e s t i n gAP TestingAP TestingOrchestra BanquetArt Show Set UpMPHS Art ShowTheater Banquet17 18192021 222Band Banquet(Graduation Practice)24Symphonic & Jazz Band ConcertAUD. 7:00pmPride Board Meeting6:00pm G10325 26 27(Graduation Practice)Graduation7pm – StadiumFinal Exams – Fr, So, JrS e n i o r F i n a l E x a m sTeachers’Last Day28*Baccalaureate willtake place Sunday,May 23, 2009 @ 7pm29Deadline for summernewsletter June 3.June 9 th – 6pmThe final 8 th gradeParent WorkshopsMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 49

School Calendar2009 ~ 2010First SemesterAugust 10............................................................First Day of SchoolAugust 24 ...........................................................Open HouseAugust 26............................................................Half DaySeptember 7 ......................................................Holiday ~ Labor DaySeptember 21.....................................................Half DayOctober 12-16...................................................Holiday ~ Fall Break(Office remains open)October 19.........................................................Beginning of 2 nd quarterOctober 27-29...................................................AIMS retakes (grades 11-12)November 4.......................................................Half dayNovember 11.....................................................Holiday ~ Veterans’ DayNovember 26-27...............................................Holiday ~ ThanksgivingDecember 16-17...............................................Final ExamsDecember 18.....................................................Student Holiday (Office remains open)December 21–January 1..................................Holiday ~ Winter BreakSecond SemesterJanuary 4..............................................................2 nd Semester/3 rd quarter beginsJanuary 18 ...........................................................Holiday ~ Civil Rights/MLK DayJanuary 25 ...........................................................Curriculum NightJanuary 27 ...........................................................Half DayFebruary 8...........................................................Half DayFebruary 15 ........................................................Holiday ~ Presidents’ DayFebruary 23-24 .................................................AIMS Writing & Reading TestingMarch 12 .............................................................End of 3 rd quarterMarch 15-19 .......................................................Holiday ~ Spring BreakMarch 22 .............................................................Beginning of 4 th quarterMarch 24 .............................................................Half DayApril 2..................................................................HolidayApril 7..................................................................AIMS Math/Terranova TestingApril 8..................................................................AIMS Science TestingMay 3-14..............................................................AP TestingMay 20-21............................................................Senior Final ExamsMay 23..................................................................BaccalaureateMay 25-26............................................................Semester Exams (grades 9-11)May 27..................................................................Graduation (Staff only workday)May 28..................................................................Staff only workdayMPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 50

RegularWarning Bell 7:441 7:49 - 8:46 572 8:51 - 9:48 573 9:53 - 10:56 63announcements4 11:01 - 11:58 57Lunch - 5 11:58 - 12:32 34ORLunch - 4 10:56 - 11:30 345 11:35 - 12:32 576 12:37 - 1:34 577 1:39 - 2:36 57 Purpose Pride PerformanceMountain Pointe High SchoolSplit AssemblyWarning Bell 7:441 7:49 - 8:38 49Assembly A 8:43 - 9:29 462 9:34 - 10:20 46ORr2 8:43 - 9:29 46Assembly B 9:34 - 10:20 463 10:25 - 11:14 494 11:19 - 12:08 49Lunch - 5 12:08 - 12:48 40ORLunch - 4 11:14 - 11:54 405 11:59 - 12:48 496 12:53 - 1:42 497 1:47 - 2:36 49Half DayWarning Bell 7:441 7:49 - 8:26 372 8:31 - 9:08 373 9:13 - 9:50 374 / 5 9:55 - 10:32 376 10:37 - 11:14 377 11:19 - 11:56 37ExamsWarning Bell 7:441 4 / 5 7:49 - 9:09 802 6 9:14 - 10:34 803 7 10:39 - 11:59 80Revised and EffectiveAugust 2009MPHS Student Handbook 2009-2010 51