High School Handbook

Student Discipline Policy

I. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that students are aware of and comply with the school district’s expectations for student conduct. Such compliance will enhance the school district’s ability to maintain discipline and ensure that there is no interference with the educational process. The school district will take appropriate disciplinary action when students fail to adhere to the Code of Student Conduct established by this policy.

II. General Statement of Policy

The PRB School Board recognizes that individual responsibility and mutual respect are essential components of the educational process. The PRB School Board further recognizes that the nurturing of the maturing process for each student is of primary importance and is closely linked with the balance that must be maintained between authority and self-discipline as the individual progresses from a child’s dependence on authority to the more mature behavior of self-control. All students are entitled to learn and develop in a setting which promotes respect of self, others and property. Proper positive discipline can only result from an environment, which provides options and stresses student self-direction, decision-making and responsibility. Schools can function effectively only with internal discipline based on mutual understanding of rights and responsibilities. Students must conduct themselves in an appropriate manner that maintains a climate in which learning can take place. Overall decorum affects student attitudes and influences student behavior. Proper student conduct is necessary to facilitate the education process and to create an atmosphere conducive to high student achievement. Although this policy emphasizes the development of self-discipline, it is recognized that there are instances when it will be necessary to administer disciplinary measures. It is the position of the school district that a fair and equitable district-wide student discipline policy will contribute to the quality of the student’s educational experience. This discipline policy is adopted in accordance with and subject to the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. 121A.40 through 121A.56. In view of the foregoing and in accordance with Minn. Stat 121A.55, the school board, with the participation of school district administrators, teachers, employees, students, parents, community members and such other individuals and organizations as appropriate, has developed this policy which governs student conduct and applies to all students of the school district.

Insubordination, defiance of authority, verbal abuse, assault, terroristic threats, possession of narcotics, tobacco, synthetic marijuana and/or alcohol, continual violation of school rules and regulations are examples of serious offenses and will result in assessing major consequences, which may include suspension, expulsion, or be subject to the severe/habitual clause which may include an educational change of placement.

III. Areas of Responsibility

The School Board

Holds all school personnel responsible for the maintenance of order within the school district and supports all personnel acting within the framework of this discipline policy.

Superintendent

Establishes guidelines and directives to carry out this policy, hold all school personnel, students and parents responsible to conforming to this policy, and support all school personnel performing their duties within the framework of this policy. The superintendent shall also establish guidelines and directives for using the services of appropriate agencies for assisting students and parents. Any guideline or directive established to implement this policy shall be submitted to the school board for approval and shall be attached as an addendum to this policy.

Administrative Team (Principal and Dean of Students)

Is given the responsibility and authority to formulate building rules and regulations necessary to enforce this policy, subject to final school board approval. The administrative team shall give direction and support to all school personnel performing their duties within the framework of this policy. The administrative team shall consult with parents of students conducting themselves in a manner contrary to the policy. The admin team shall also involve other professional employees in the disposition of behavior referral and shall make use of those agencies appropriate for assisting students and parents.

Teachers

Will be responsible for providing a well-planned teaching/learning environment and shall have primary responsibility for student conduct, with appropriate assistance from the administration. All teachers shall enforce the Code of Student Conduct.

Other School District Personnel

Will be responsible for contributing to the atmosphere of mutual respect within the school. Their responsibilities relating to student behavior shall be as authorized and directed by the superintendent.

Parents or Legal Guardians

Will be held responsible for the behavior of their children as determined by law and community practice. They are expected to cooperate with school authorities and to participate regarding the behavior of their children.

Students

Will be held accountable for their behavior and for knowing and obeying the Code of Student Conduct and this policy. Students must cooperate in disciplinary investigations.

Community Members

Are expected to contribute to the establishment of an atmosphere in which rights and duties are effectively acknowledged and fulfilled.

IV. Student Rights

All students have the right to an education and the right to learn.

V. Student Responsibilities

All students have the responsibility:

For their behavior choices, knowing and obeying school rules, regulations, policies and procedures;
To attend school daily, except when excused, and to be on time to all classes and other school functions;
To pursue and attempt to complete the courses of study prescribed by the state and local school authorities;
To make necessary arrangements for making up work when absent from school;
To assist the school staff in maintaining a safe school for all students;
To assume that until a rule or policy is waived, altered or repealed, it is in full force
To be aware of and comply with federal, state and local laws;
To volunteer information in disciplinary cases should they have any knowledge relating to such cases and to cooperate with school staff as appropriate;
To respect and maintain the school’s property and the property of others;
To dress and groom in a manner which meets standards of safety, health, and common standards of decency and which is consistent with applicable school district policy;
To avoid inaccuracies in student newspapers and publications and refrain from indecent and obscene language;
To conduct themselves in an appropriate physical and verbal manner; and
To recognize and respect the rights of others.

VI. Rules of Conduct

Students who have been expelled and/or excluded from District #2174 will be readmitted to the Pine River-Backus School district only after the preparation and implementation of an admission plan. This plan shall include measures to improve a student’s behavior and requires parental/guardian involvement in the admission or readmission process. In accordance with Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, students of the District may be suspended, expelled, or excluded for the reasons delineated below in addition to other situations, which fall within the grounds contained in the Minnesota Fair Dismissal Act:

Willful violation of any reasonable school district regulation.
Willful conduct materially and substantially disrupting the rights of others to an education.
Willful conduct which endangers the pupil or other pupils, or the property of the school.

In addition to the grounds for suspension, expulsion, or exclusion, the District may take other disciplinary action for any violation of school rules or other disruptive and dangerous conduct. If a suspension occurs, reasonable efforts will be made to contact the parents/guardians prior to a child being suspended from the building. Disciplinary action may be taken as a result of any behavior which is disruptive of good order or which violates the rights of others. The listing of minimum actions does not imply or require that an administrator, in dealing with a violation, employ a step-by-step progression of increasing severity. However, there shall be a logical relationship between the severity of the offense and the administrative action. Administrators have broad discretion to impose penalties more severe than the minimum actions listed. In unusual situations, administrators may also impose discipline less severe than the minimum consequences listed. The listing of maximum action is referenced for a first offense only. In the event that a student has engaged in the same or similar behavior in the past, or has engaged in persistent violation of school rules, the maximum penalties may be increased to as severe a consequence as expulsion or exclusion for one calendar year. Nothing in this policy shall prohibit the School District from taking immediate action to protect individuals and property from harm. Nor shall this policy be construed to prohibit the School District from expelling students for behavior not specifically set forth in such conduct.

Materially and substantially disrupts the rights of others to an education; or
Endangers the pupil, other pupils or individuals or the property of the school.

Any student who engages in any of these activities shall be disciplined in accordance with this policy. This policy applies to all school buildings, school grounds and school property, school sponsored activities or trips, school bus stops, school buses, school vehicles, school contracted vehicles or any other vehicles approved for school district purposes, the area of entrance or departure from school premises or events, and all school related functions. This policy also applies to any student whose conduct at any time or in any place interferes with or obstructs the mission or operations of the school district or the safety or welfare of the student, other students or employees.

VII. Disciplinary Action

Disciplinary action may include but is not limited to the following: Student conference with teacher, dean of students, counselor or other school district personnel, and verbal warning; written incident report; parent contact; parent conference; removal from class; in-school suspension; behavioral intervention; suspension from co-curricular activities; detention; extended detention; restriction of privileges; loss of school privileges; financial restitution; referral to police or other appropriate agencies; out-of-school suspension; educational placement change; exclusion; or expulsion.

Definitions (Student Discipline)

Removal from Class:

A student who is removed from class for a short time, remains in the custody of the school. Students removed from class shall be the responsibility of the principal or the lawful designee. Repeated incidences of removal from class may result in loss of credit. Students shall be removed from class only upon agreement of the appropriate teacher and principal after an informal administrative conference with the student. The decision as to removal shall ultimately be up to the principal. The removal from class may be imposed without an informal administrative conference when it appears that the student will create an immediate and substantial danger to himself/herself or to persons or property around him/her. The length of time of the removal will be established at the informal administrative conference and will include the procedures for the completion of any make-up work.

Detention and Extended Detention:

Required attendance in a classroom or other specified location at a time when regular classes are in session, such as during or after school, or during lunch and recess, for disciplinary reasons. Detention times will be established by the high school administrative team as needed.

In-School Suspension:

On occasion students may be placed on in-school suspension status. Students placed in in-school suspension (ISS) shall report to the assigned in-school suspension room upon being assigned and/or when they arrive to school the day(s) they have been assigned to ISS. Students are to bring academic work to do.

Out-of-School Suspension:

The action taken by school administration prohibiting a student from attending school for a period of no more than ten (10) days, unless a longer period is authorized by law. The procedures for a suspension contained in the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act shall be followed. Any student suspended out-of-school shall not be allowed to be on the school grounds or attend any school functions before, during, or after the instructional day for the duration of the suspension. A student may receive up to full credit for student assignments in progress or missed, provided arrangements are made with the instructor(s).

Exclusion:

This action is taken by the School Board, pursuant to the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. 127.26, et.seq, to prevent enrollment or re-enrollment of a pupil for a period that shall not extend beyond the school year.

Expulsion:

This action is taken by the School Board, pursuant to the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. 127.26, et.seq, to prohibit an enrolled student from further attendance for up to twelve (12) months from the date the pupil is expelled.

Revocation of Bus Privileges:

Students engaging in disruptive behavior on a school bus or other vehicle or violating any provision of this policy while in a school vehicle may have their bus/school vehicle privileges suspended for up to one school year.

Habitual/Severe Clause:

Habitual/severe abuse of the rules and policies and excessive disciplinary referrals in a semester may warrant a meeting with the student, parent and administration. Behaviors which hinder the smooth operation of the school and/or jeopardize the welfare of other students or adversely impede the learning environment may result in the following consequences: Disciplinary conference with the student, parent and administration; detention; in-school suspension; out-of-school suspension; or referral to the School Board for a possible change of placement or expulsion proceedings. Suspensions are made by the administration and are not appealable.

VIII. Disciplinary Referrals

Consequences for failing to follow the rules or meet daily expectations will first be handled in the classroom whenever it is possible. In the case of a discipline referral to the office, teachers will submit a disciplinary referral, the nature of the problem, and action taken to correct the problem. The office will make an attempt to notify the parent by phone or by mail. Appropriate consequences will be assigned. If a student is dismissed from class for disciplinary reasons, he/she is to report to the office.

The following acts are unacceptable behavior subject to disciplinary action by the school district:

Violations against Property

Violations against Person(s)

Dangerous & Harmful Substances

Threats & Disruptions

Student Conduct

Traffic Regulations & Bus Safety

Weapons

This policy applies to students and non-students, adults, employees and visitors to the District.

Statement of Policy

It is a violation of the policy of Independent School District No. 2174 for any individual to possess, store in an area subject to one’s control, handle, transmit, or use any instrument that is considered a weapon and destructive device or a look-alike weapon or destructive device in school, on school grounds, at school activities, at bus stops or in school vehicles, or entering upon or departing from school premises, property or events. Weapons and destructive devices will not be tolerated.

Definitions

General Definition of Weapons

Any and all articles commonly used or designed to inflict bodily harm and/or intimidate another person(s). Examples include, but are not limited to: firearms, whether loaded or unloaded or incapable of being used; knives; clubs; metal knuckles, nunchucks; throwing stars; explosives; stun guns; ammunition; mace; pellet guns; starter guns; crossbows; bows and arrows; and other non functioning guns and weapons that could be used to threaten others.
Any and all look-alike weapons, including any item, which may reasonably be believed to constitute a weapon under this policy.
Any and all articles designed for other purposes that are actually used to inflict bodily hard and/or intimidate. Examples include, but are not limited to: belts; combs; pen/pencils; files; scissors; compasses; laser pointers; and letter openers.
Objects such as fireworks, firecrackers, smoke/stink bombs, darts, and nuisance items and unauthorized tools, which have the potential to cause harm. The building administrator or designee shall use his/her discretion when interpreting the use and intent of such articles at school as outlined above.

Destructive Device – Gun Free School Act of 1994

Any explosive, incendiary, or poisonous gas:
1. Bomb or Grenade
2. Rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces
3. Missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than ¼ ounces
4. Mine
5. Device similar to any of the devices described in the preceding clauses
Any type of weapon by whatever name known which will, or which may be readily converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant, and which has any barrel with a bore of more than one-half inch in diameter; and
Combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into any destructive device described above and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled.

Weapon – Gun Free School Act

Any weapon, which will, or is designed to, or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive
The frame or receiver of any such weapon
Any firearm muffler or firearm silencer
Any destructive device

Enforcement

The District shall act immediately to investigate all acts and complaints of violence, and take appropriate disciplinary action against any pupil or staff member who is found to have violated this policy.
Pursuant to the Gun Free School Act of 1994, all students in possession of a weapon or destructive device, as defined above in Article C, 2 and 3, may be expelled or excluded from attendance or otherwise removed from school for a period of one calendar year. The Superintendent may recommend to the School Board, in unusual circumstances, that a less severe penalty be imposed.
Students with or without disabilities are subject to the consequences of this policy. Students with a disability will be subject to disciplinary action, which complies with the law applicable to disabled students. This includes but is not limited to, interim alternative placement as provided by 20 U.S.C. 1415.
Students in possession of a weapon as defined in Article C, Section 1, which does not constitute a weapon or destructive device pursuant to the Gun Free School Act, shall be subject to disciplinary action, including possible expulsion for one calendar year, upon the recommendation of the administration. Possible consequences include:

Notification of parent/guardian;
Involvement of the police with a recommendation to charge;
Minimum consequence: suspension not to exceed ten (10) days from school
Maximum consequence: expulsion/exclusion from school for up to one (1) year.
Any student who proactively communicates with the Principal/Dean of Students when they inadvertently are in possession of a weapon may not be subject to the discipline.

This policy is not meant to interfere with the instruction or use of appropriate equipment by employees and students. Such equipment, when properly used and stored shall not be considered a weapon for the purposes of this policy. However, when authorized instructional and work equipment or tools are used in a dangerous or potentially dangerous and/or threatening manner, they may be considered a weapon and their use may be subject to the contents of this policy.

Additional Considerations

Principals and licensed employees in a building shall review this disciplinary policy at least annually and assess whether its provisions have been enforced.

Principals have broad discretion to impose any penalty more severe than, or in addition to, the minimums set forth above. In addition, administrators have broad authority to require other types of intervention for conduct violating this policy, including referral to teach teams and other agencies or authorities for assistance and/or evaluation.

The listing of minimum consequences is referenced for a first offense only. In the event that a student has engaged in the same or similar behavior in the past or has engaged in persistent violation of school rules; a maximum consequences shall be increased to expulsion/exclusion for one school year.

Handicapped students involved in violations of these rules of conduct will be assessed through the child study process.

- Students with IEPs, when suspended, must have a child study team meeting within five (5) days of the suspension.
- Team must meet prior to expulsion or exclusion; the child cannot be expelled or excluded if the misconduct is related to the handicapped condition.
- Statutes: Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act) Minn. Stat. Ch. 125A (Students with Disabilities) and IDEA 1997 Minn. Stat. 121A.40 to 121A.56 (Pupil Fair Dismissal Act) Minn. Stat. 121A.60 to 121.A.61 (Removal from Class) Minn. Stat. 124D.03 (Enrollment Options Program) Minn. Stat. 124D.07 and 124D.08 (Enrollment in Nonresident District) Minn. Stat. Ch. 260A (Truancy) Goals 2000: Educate America Act 20 U.S.C. 5801 ET seq.29 U.S.C. 794 et sep. (Section 504 of Rehabilitation Act of 1973)

Due Process

Pine River-Backus Public Schools will not deny due process or equal protection of the law to any public school pupil involved in a dismissal proceeding which may result in suspension, exclusion or expulsion as prescribed in the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act of 1974.

Section 504

It is the policy of the Pine River-Backus Board of Education to provide a free and appropriate education to each handicapped student within its jurisdiction. It is the intent of the district to ensure that students who are handicapped within the definition of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 are identified, evaluated and provided with appropriate educational services. Students may be handicapped under this policy even though they do not require services pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA).

Attendance

The School Board of Independent District No. 2174 believes that success in academic work is directly related to regular school attendance. Absences, whether excused or unexcused, are detrimental to the learning process in that work made up outside of class is not as effective as the actual classroom experience. Furthermore, excessive absences may result in a failing grade. Experiences with class discussions and student teacher interactions cannot be replicated outside the classroom or at a later time. In addition, regular attendance develops habits of dependability important to the future of the student. In accordance with the regulations of the State Department of Education and the Minnesota Mandatory Attendance Law, students are required to attend all assigned classes every day school is in session. Students, parents and teachers share the responsibility for attendance.

Responsibilities of Students and Parents

Responsibilities of Students

To attend all assigned classes every day that school is in session.
To be in class on time, prepared for academic work.
To know and follow correct procedures regarding attendance.
To request missed assignments due to an absence, and complete assigned work.

Responsibilities of Parents

To encourage the student to attend school.
To recognize that any absence, regardless of cause, has a detrimental influence on the student’s achievement.
To inform the school in the event of a student’s absence.
- Calling the office on the day the student is absent (preferred method)
- OR notifying the office on the day the student returns to school by:
  - - Calling the office the morning the student returns
    - The student submitting a parent signed note to the office prior to school starting the day they return.
To work cooperatively with the school and the student to solve any attendance problems that may arise.

General Procedures Regarding Absenteeism

When a student is absent, the parent or guardian shall notify the school by phone (587-4425) the day of the absence or by lunch the day the student returns to school to avoid any potential consequence. All notes must be signed in ink, dated, include an explanation regarding the absence.

A student whose illness extends beyond three (3) consecutive school days may be asked to provide a doctor’s slip documenting the illness.
If the illness extends five (5) or more consecutive school days a doctor’s slip documenting the illness may be required to excuse the absences.
Any student that accumulates 10 or more absences, whether excused or unexcused, may be asked to provide a doctor’s slip documenting previous or future absences.

Official school field trips or other school-sponsored events, which require a student to be absent from class, are not considered absences as outlined by this policy.

Excused Absences

The following reasons shall be sufficient to constitute excused absences:

Illness
Serious illness in the student’s immediate family
Significant family events such as a death in the student’s immediate family or of a close friend or relative, or a wedding
Medical or dental treatment. An appointment card or note from the doctor’s office may be requested for students who have been identified and referred to county truancy for excessive or continuing truancy
Court appearances occasioned by family or personal action
Religious instruction as agreed upon by the parent and school district
Religious/spiritual days kept sacred by the pupil when religious/spiritual services are observed only during school hours
Physical emergency conditions such as fire, flood, storm, etc.
Removal of a student due to a suspension. Suspensions are to be handled as excused absences and the student will be permitted to complete make-up work;
Dismissal under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act for disciplinary purposes;
School sponsored activities;
Important events requiring student participation in such activities as state or national contests, tournaments, concerts or performances;
Students in the 11th and 12th grade will be allowed up to three college visits each year. Visits must be approved through the guidance counselor prior to the visit.

Guidelines for Work Completion:

Students whose absences are excused are required to make up all assignments missed or to complete alternative assignments as deemed appropriate by the classroom teacher.
Students absent due to school-sponsored activities will consult with their teachers prior to the activity requiring them to miss school. Students should return to class with the work completed or at the discretion of the teacher.
Students excused from school for an extended period of time may request homework in advance. Teachers may or may not be prepared to distribute all assignments missed. Any work given prior to the absences is due upon return to school or at the teacher’s discretion.

Unexcused Absences

The following are examples of absences, which will not be excused:

Truancy. An absence from school without the parent’s or school’s knowledge and/or approval.
Work at home, including babysitting a younger sibling.
Work at a business, except under a school-sponsored work release program.
Vacations with family (unless approved in advance by the Administrative team).
Personal trips to school or colleges (unless arranged through the guidance counselor and/or approved in advance by the Administrative team).
Arriving to class more than 15 minutes late will be considered an unexcused absence unless the student has a note and the student’s absence is excused by administration.
Any other absence not included under the attendance procedures set out in this policy.

Consequences of Unexcused Absences

Students may not receive credit for work missed during an unexcused absence.
Students are expected to take part in all classroom activities immediately upon returning

Tardiness

Definition

Tardiness is the failure of a student to be in an assigned area without a valid excuse when the final bell sounds for each class. Individual classroom teachers will define “assigned area”. Students will be considered tardy if they are not in the assigned classroom when the final bell rings. A late entrance is considered tardy if it occurs during the first fifteen (15) minutes of class. After that (15) minute time period, tardiness will automatically turn into an absence.

Procedure for Reporting Tardiness

Students tardy at the start of school must report to the school office for an admission slip before being allowed entrance into their first hour class (to avoid unnecessary calls home).

Teachers will report students being tardy during the school day via Infinite Campus

Consequences for Excessive Tardiness

Students with excessive tardiness will be subject to school discipline.

All discipline measures are subject to administrative discretion.

Advanced Absences

Temporary absence from the school can be issued based upon the personal request of the parent/guardian (provided the request is made in advance of the absence) if it is due to an emergency. To receive full credit for work missed because of emergency absences, a student must make arrangements with each teacher upon returning to school or via email..

Note: Vacation days must be pre-approved by the principal via phone call or written notice two days in advance to be considered as an excused absence. Vacation days not pre-approved will count as verified but considered as an unexcused absence. Pre-approval may have an impact on the final outcome of earning credit.

Requests for Assignments when Absent

Parents may call the school office at 587-4425 requesting homework assignments. A minimum of one full school day should be allowed to give staff members the necessary time to write out assignments, collect books and appropriate materials and deliver them to the office.

Leaving School During the Day

Sometimes students have appointments which must be kept, or for some other reason need to leave school during the day. Please have your parents call the office in the morning when this will occur or provide a written note signed by a parent/guardian. You must check out with the office when you leave and check in again when you return. You will never be allowed to leave the school during the day without communication, verbal or written, between school officials and your parent(s)/guardian(s). Leaving class or the building without approval is considered truancy. For the purposes of this policy, the school day begins when a student boards the bus or arrives at school.

Senior Open Lunch

Open lunch opportunities will be granted to seniors once per month. To be eligible for open lunch a senior must turn in written notice from a parent/guardian before the lunch period on that day. Monthly open lunch is a privilege. Seniors are only eligible for open lunch if they are in good standing at the time of the request. Students who return late or leave without permission from lunch will lose this privilege for the remainder of the school year and receive a consequence as deemed appropriate.

School Attendance: Eligibility to participate in school activities/extracurricular athletics:

Students who are not in school by 8:30 AM will not be allowed to participate that day in their school-sponsored activity: practice or competition. Students should still attend their school-sponsored activity despite not being able to participate.
Students must attend a full day of school following participation in an event.
Students who are ill during the day and leave school early should not plan to participate that night. We will not attempt to enhance a performance, win a game or match at the expense of a student’s health.

Any exceptions to the above expectations regarding eligibility are at the discretion of the PRB High School Administrative Team.

Note: Parents must pick their student up from any school-related activity if medical attention or disciplinary action is required for the student.

The complete Student Attendance Policy 503 is available in the high school office or online under About>District Policies.

Pine River-Backus School uses a collaborative response to student attendance issues that may arise. The school district collaborates with families to the best of our ability to support their needs of students. In the event a student attendance issue arises, the school will consult with Cass County Health Human and Veteran Services, our Cass County Attorney, and Cass County Probation per state statute.  
The information below serves to establish a common understanding and clear stakeholder interventions that will engage, inform, and plan with parents and students to address statutorily required educational needs.
Pine River-Backus schools has established a School Attendance Review Board pursuant to Minnesota Statute § 260A.05. Our Attendance Review Board includes a variety of stakeholders that have developed a plan to promote interagency and community cooperation and to reduce the duplication of services for students with school attendance. Cass County has committed a Probation Officer and Social Worker to attend our established School Attendance Review Boards.
Pine River-Backus Schools will use the protocol and procedures below to monitor and handle student attendance.
- Child starts displaying a pattern of absences or has up to 3 days unexcused absences (Includes Early Identification), the following school interventions take place.
- Teacher takes attendance and verifies per the school’s policy.
- Student/Parent contacts- Contacts with Parents at elementary level and students AND parents at middle school and high school level
- Elementary students can be engaged with to build rapport, however identification of barriers and solutions to those barriers should occur with the parent.
- For Middle School and High School students, planning can be done with both students and parents.
- Staff will clearly explain the process of how attendance will be taken.
- Staff will identify barriers to student’s attendance.
- Staff will develop strategies with students and parents about removing barriers (transportation, video games, bus schedule, alarm clock, technology/connectivity, family dynamics during COVID, living arrangements, learning space in the home, cultural barriers, etc.)
- Staff will make plans with students and/or parents about how to get the child to school.
- Staff will provide alternative options for how students can attend during the day if applicable.
- Staff will create a plan for how a student can attend if technology fails to work.
- Staff will make and document any referrals made for:
  - Homelessness- make referral to homeless liaison
  - Mental Health- refer to school counselor or school social worker
  - Medical concern – indicate medical concern and document referrals to school nurse
  - Cultural – refer student to appropriate Diversity Liaison (if applicable) County requires cultural liaisons to be connected with families before county involvement will occur.
- Identify and address cultural barriers, such as reading and comprehending written English versus a conversation in English. Encourage students to get involved in community activities and build relationships with at least one positive adult support in the school.
- Checking the student’s history for chronic absenteeism.

State and County Truancy Intervention Policy

Pine River-Backus Schools will send a 3-day letter to students that have 3 days unexcused absence (do not have to be consecutive). Letters are statutorily required, per Minnesota Statutes § 260A.03

A child meets “Habitual Truant” definition of 7 or more unexcused absences

(5-11 years) – 7 FULL days unexcused
(12-17 years) – 7 periods on 7 separate days

School Interventions:

Continued communication with students and parents about attendance concerns
Positively reinforcing the child when/if they do come or participate in school
Continued work with Attendance Teams and problem solving. Follow up and revisions to any intervention plan or IEP.
Pine River-Backus Schools will send a 7-day letter to parent explaining concerns and potential of sending referral to Cass County Social Services

Ensure all prior required and recommended interventions have been completed
Interventions expected to be taken by the school prior to reporting to child protection include, but are not limited to:
- Phone calls, texts, emails with parent and/or student
- Face to face contact with parents and/or student
- Confirming students are still in the district
- Identifying any and all appropriate supports to ensure families have access to classes, which may include mental health referrals, transportation, referrals to childcare, and financial resources.

Pine River-Backus may refer the matter to the County Attorney’s Truancy Mediation Program. This is a program authorized by Minnesota Statute § 260A.07 that allows staff from the County Attorney’s Office to meet with parents and the student to discuss the possible legal consequences of truancy.

This meeting is voluntary on the part of the parents and student and entirely educational. The referral should be made before the matter is referred to social services and the school should continue efforts to work with the parents and student. If truancy issues continue after this meeting and continued efforts by the school, then the matter could then be referred to social services. If a referral is ultimately made to social services, the school should still continue to work with the parents and student and provide updates to social services.

Attire & Appearance

The responsibility for proper dress rests with students and parents. With the wide variety of styles and fashions available today, parents and students should use good judgment and common sense in picking clothes for school so the learning atmosphere can be maintained and does not constitute a health or safety hazard.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to enhance the education of students by establishing expectations of dress and grooming that are related to educational goals and community standards.

General Statement of Policy for Clothing

It is the policy of this school district to encourage students to dress appropriately for school activities.

Appropriate

Appropriate clothing includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Clothing appropriate for the weather;
Clothing and/or accessories that do not create a health or safety hazard;
Clothing appropriate for the activity (i.e. physical education or the classroom).
Clothing that provides appropriate coverage.

Inappropriate

Inappropriate clothing/accessories includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Clothing must be appropriate for a school setting and not distract, harass, or intimidate other students and staff. The following are not allowed:

Shorts that are not an appropriate length and skirts that are not at fingertip length.
Short shirts or tank tops that expose too much midriff.
Clothing which is suggestive or inadequate in its covering (tube tops, shoulderless tops)
Waistbands below the hips exposing underwear or skin.
Clothing/Apparel that bears a message that is lewd, vulgar or promoting illegal activity.
Objectionable emblems, signs, words or pictures on clothing communicating a message that is racist, sexist, or otherwise derogatory to a protected minority group or which implies gang membership or that approves, advances, or provokes any form of religious, racial or sexual harassment and/or violence against other individuals as defined in MSBA/MASA Model Policy 413.
Footwear that would damage school property or is a safety issue.
Hats/headdress are allowed to be worn in the building during designated times. Students are allowed to wear appropriate hats/headdress in the building until the first warning bell and after the last bell of the day. All hats/headdresses are not allowed to be worn in any other time during the school day and will remain in their lockers. Other exceptions will be held under the discretion of the administrative team. (i.e. religious affiliation, student undergoing chemotherapy, medical situations). Students will not be allowed to wear a hood up at any time.
Clothing depicting guns and/or firearms unless deemed appropriate by school admin.

It is not the intention of this policy to abridge the rights of students to express political, religious, philosophical, or similar opinions by wearing apparel on which such messages are stated. Such messages are acceptable as long as they are not lewd, vulgar, obscene, defamatory, profane, promoting illegal substances, do not advocate violence or harassment against others.

“Gang” as used in this policy means any ongoing organization, association or group of three or more persons, whether formal or informal, having as one of its primary activities the commission of one or more criminal acts, which has an identifiable name or identifying sign or symbol, and whose members individually or collectively engage in or whose members engaged in a pattern of criminal gang activity. The “pattern of gang activity” means the commission, attempt to commit, conspiring to commit, or solicitation of two or more criminal acts, provided the criminal acts were committed on separate dates or by two or more persons who are members of or belong to the same criminal street gang. Students will not be allowed to wear any chains, spikes or any gang-related articles of dress.

Procedures

When, in the judgment of the administration, a student’s appearance, grooming, or mode of dress interferes with or disrupts the educational process or school activities, or poses a threat to the health or safety of the student or others, the student will be directed to make modifications of or will be sent home for the day. Parents/guardians will be notified.
The administration may recommend a form of dress considered appropriate for a specific event and communicate the recommendation to students and parents/guardians.
Likewise, an organized student group may recommend a form of dress for students considered appropriate for a specific event and make such recommendations to the administration for approval.

Violators of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, including but not limited to: student/teacher conference; detention; removal from class; dismissal; and suspension or expulsion. Students unable or unwilling to change clothes will be given an unexcused absence for their time out of class.

Students are expected to dress in accordance with this policy at all extracurricular and school-sponsored events.

Cell Phones & Electronic Devices

Students are encouraged to leave cell phones and other personal electronic devices at home. These devices are disruptive and are prone to theft.

Students are allowed to use cell phones between classes and at lunch. Students may be allowed to use electronic devices in class, but only at their teacher’s discretion. Students are never allowed to use cell phones in the locker rooms or bathrooms.

Students are not allowed to listen to headphones in the hallways during passing time.

FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE PROCEDURES WILL RESULT IN THE FOLLOWING:

1st Offense:

The cell phone will be turned in to the office. If the student does not turn it in the parents will be called to come and pick it up. If the student voluntarily gave the phone up the student may pick up the phone after the school day is over.

Additional Offenses:

Student’s phone will be taken and the student will receive additional consequences.

A student is not allowed to take pictures or film of another student unless under the direct supervision of a teacher for educational purposes. Students that violate the right of others will be subject to the maximum consequence(s) allowable under the District Harassment Policy.

General Statement of Policy

It is the policy of this school district to encourage students to dress appropriately for school activities.

Appropriate

Appropriate clothing includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Clothing appropriate for the weather;
Clothing and/or accessories that do not create a health or safety hazard;
Clothing appropriate for the activity (i.e. physical education or the classroom).
Clothing that provides appropriate coverage.

Inappropriate

Inappropriate clothing/accessories includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Clothing must be appropriate for a school setting and not distract, harass, or intimidate other students and staff. The following are not allowed:

Shorts that are not an appropriate length and skirts that are not at fingertip length.
Short shirts or tank tops that expose too much midriff.
Clothing which is suggestive or inadequate in its covering (tube tops, shoulderless tops)
Waistbands below the hips exposing underwear or skin.
Clothing/Apparel that bears a message that is lewd, vulgar or promoting illegal activity.
Objectionable emblems, signs, words or pictures on clothing communicating a message that is racist, sexist, or otherwise derogatory to a protected minority group or which implies gang membership or that approves, advances, or provokes any form of religious, racial or sexual harassment and/or violence against other individuals as defined in MSBA/MASA Model Policy 413.
Footwear that would damage school property or is a safety issue.
Hats/headdress are allowed to be worn in the building during designated times. Students are allowed to wear appropriate hats/headdress in the building until the first warning bell and after the last bell of the day. All hats/headdresses are not allowed to be worn in any other time during the school day and will remain in their lockers. Other exceptions will be held under the discretion of the administrative team. (i.e. religious affiliation, student undergoing chemotherapy, medical situations). Students will not be allowed to wear a hood up at any time.
Clothing depicting guns and/or firearms unless deemed appropriate by school admin.

Procedures

When, in the judgment of the administration, a student’s appearance, grooming, or mode of dress interferes with or disrupts the educational process or school activities, or poses a threat to the health or safety of the student or others, the student will be directed to make modifications of or will be sent home for the day. Parents/guardians will be notified.
The administration may recommend a form of dress considered appropriate for a specific event and communicate the recommendation to students and parents/guardians.
Likewise, an organized student group may recommend a form of dress for students considered appropriate for a specific event and make such recommendations to the administration for approval.

Students are expected to dress in accordance with this policy at all extracurricular and school-sponsored events.

Bullying

The Pine River-Backus School District will not tolerate bullying at any time; in school, on the bus or in any other school (i.e. when our students are traveling and attending an activity at another school/location).

Bullying as defined in this handbook is a form of harassment and will be treated very seriously by members of the staff and administration. Bullying can be direct, meaning face-to-face interactions which include physical attacks or threatening or intimidating gestures; or indirect which requires a third party. Indirect bullying is often more subtle and includes social isolation, rumor spreading and scapegoating.

Bullying whether direct or indirect contains several key elements. These include: physical, psychological or intellectual and hinder the victim from defending him/herself.

Repeated actions – The negative actions usually occur repeatedly over a period of time.
Intentional actions – Bullies purposely choose actions that will hurt or intimidate the targeted victim. Bullies seldom show empathy or concern for the victim.
Unequal levels of affect – The victim will typically display a high level of emotional distress; yelling, crying, withdrawal or anxiousness. The bully, however, will demonstrate very little emotion or anguish. The adolescent doing the bullying is likely to blame the victim for causing the aggressive act or believe “he/she deserved it”. Bullies commonly feel justified in their actions.

Bullying behavior can include any or all of the following forms of abuse:

Physical aggression: includes destroying property, threatening
Social aggression: spreading rumors, racial slurs, exclusion from group
Verbal aggression: name calling, teasing, threatening, intimidating phone calls
Intimidation: graffiti, a dirty trick, taking possessions, coercion
Written aggression: electronic messaging directed at an individual that occurs during the school day, note passing, graffiti
Sexual harassment: any comments or actions of a sexual nature which are unwelcome and make the recipient uncomfortable
Racial and cultural (ethnic) harassment: Any comments or actions containing racial or ethnic content (direct or indirect) which are unwelcome and make the recipient uncomfortable.

The Principal will work in collaboration with the Dean of Students, Guidance Counselor, Youth and Family Services Worker as well as the full staff to investigate and handle all allegations of bullying. After investigation and when deemed appropriate, parents of all parties will be notified.

Students or staff who recognize that these things are occurring must report them immediately to school administration.

Passes (In School)

In-school passes are required whenever you leave the room in which you are scheduled. The teacher in charge of your room will issue these passes. Passes will be signed by the teacher issuing the pass and include the date and time, along with the location the student is going. Sign out sheets will be available in each classroom to document the date and time. It is expected that students will be prepared for class. The scheduled classroom teacher has the final authority as to whether a pass will be honored.

Telephone Use (Office)

Students are not to use the office telephone during the school day without permission.
You will not be called to the telephone during school hours. An emergency message from parents will be delivered to you.
Students may ask to use the office phone before or after school or during lunchtime as needed for important matters.

Backpacks & Heavy Coats

Backpacks and heavy coats are to remain in your locker for the duration of the school day. Exceptions to this rule (i.e. 504 plans or IEP’s) will be under the discretion of administration. Adequate time exists between periods to get materials from the locker. If an individual is cold they should wear a sweater or sweatshirt; no blankets are allowed.

Pledge of Allegiance

One morning of every week, the Pledge of Allegiance will be recited aloud. Anyone who does not wish to participate in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance for any personal reason may elect not to do so. Students must respect another person’s right to make that choice.

Visitors

Parents/guardians are welcome to visit school when necessary. Approved parents/guardians with a specific purpose are required to register in the office when they enter the building. If a visit with your student is necessary, you may request to see your child in the office area. An appointment will be necessary if you wish to visit with an instructor. Parents/guardians that request to have lunch with their student will be provided an alternative setting.

Students are not allowed to bring visitors to school at any time during the school day, including lunchtime. Should this happen the visitor will be sent home immediately

No unauthorized visitors will be allowed in the building during the school day.

Food & Beverages in the Classroom

Students are not allowed to eat or drink in the computer labs, media center or in classrooms with the exceptions of scheduled academic interventions such as Lunch Bunch. Water is allowed in classrooms. Breakfast that is served in the high school hallways should be consumed in the hallway or in the commons area. Classroom teachers will be held responsible for any problems in their classroom area. Students should not visit the vending machines besides during their designated lunch period.

Building Service Personnel

Building service personnel are very important people in our school system. They perform many necessary duties within the school. Their job is difficult and never-ending. Be considerate and appreciative of their efforts. Kindly assist by using the waste cans, not writing on desks, etc. to help make our school a better place.

Nurse & Medications

Nurse Passes

Students who become ill during school should obtain a pass from the classroom teacher to go to the office. Students must check in at the office for a pass to go to the nurse. The nurse will visit the student in their location if they have had chronic visits to the nurse. The nurse will determine if the student needs to go home and note that on the pass back to the office. Students must meet expectations of the cell phone use policy at all times and are not allowed to call/text parents to pick them up unless permission is granted by the school nurse or administration. Failure to meet these expectations may result in an unexcused absence.

Student Medication

Pine River-Backus Schools wish to ensure the health, safety, and well being of all students.

The purpose of this policy is to set forth the provisions that must be followed when administering

Non-emergency prescription medication to students at school:

The school district acknowledges that some students may require prescribed drugs or medication during the school day. The school district’s licensed nurse, trained health clerk, principal, or teacher will administer prescribed medications in accordance with law and school district procedures.

Requirements

A completed signed request from the student’s parent/guardian.
An Administering Prescription Medications form completed annually.
Prescription medication must arrive in the original container labeled for the student by a pharmacist in accordance with the law & must be administered in a manner consistent with the instructions on the label.
The school nurse may request to receive further information about the prescription, if needed, prior to administration of the substance.
Prescription medications are not to be carried by the student, but will be left with the District.
The school must be notified by the parent, in writing, of any change in the student’s prescription medication administration.

The school shall provide the following:

A school nurse or a designated school employee to dispense medications as needed.
Record sheet for each child:
Name of medication
Dosage and time to be dispensed
Date and time dispensed
Secure medication storage facility in the nurse’s office.

NOTE: Procedures for the administration of drugs and medicine at school and school activities shall be developed in consultation with the school nurse.

Non-Prescription and/or Short Term Medication Dispersal

The parent/guardian shall provide the school with the following information:

Child’s name
Medication to be given
Parent/guardian signature and date
Medication in original bottle

The school shall provide the following records including:

Student’s name
Medication/dosage given
Time/date/dispensed

If, during the course of a school day, a child should develop a headache, for example, the child’s parents may be contacted. If the parent determines that the child would benefit from taking Tylenol, the parent may give permission for the nurse to give the child the Tylenol (aspirin will not be given). Tylenol will not be given without parental permission.

Communicable Diseases & Infectious Conditions

It is the policy of the School Board that students with communicable diseases not be excluded from attending school as long as their attendance does not create a substantial risk of the transmission of the illness to students or employees of the school district. A procedure for minimizing interruptions to learning resulting from communicable diseases will be established by the school district in consultation with community health and private health care providers. Procedures for the inclusion of students with communicable diseases will include review of the educational implications for the student and others with whom he or she comes into contact.

Lockers

Each student is assigned a locker for storage of books, materials and personal articles. Students are not to share lockers or move to another locker without office approval. All students are strongly advised to obtain a lock for their gym lockers. DO NOT, under any circumstance, share your locker or its combination with another person. Since lockers provide only minimum security, valuables should not be stored in lockers. The school will not be responsible for losses due to theft and therefore will not spend time investigating allegations of theft. Please understand that lockers belong to the school, and we let you use them for convenience. Inappropriate materials should not be displayed in lockers. The lockers are school property; therefore administration has the right to inspect the lockers at any time. Please keep your locker neat and organized so that you can easily find the things you need.

Public Displays of Affection

In keeping with our commitment to creating a safe and respectful school environment, most public displays of affection will not be tolerated. Students are allowed to hold hands. Kissing and other forms of affection could be considered harassing in nature, and consequences will follow harassment procedures.

Valuables

Common sense and consideration is the best guide to determine whether or not to bring personal possessions to school. School staff are not responsible for valuables that students bring to school. It is recommended that students leave all valuables at home. If special circumstances make it necessary to bring substantial cash or other important possessions to school, please coordinate safeguarding these items with school administration.

Restricted Areas

The building is open to students from 7:30 a.m. until 3:45 p.m. during school days. Students may not enter the building at other times unless accompanied and supervised by a staff member. Once a student arrives at school he/she must remain in the building, and not in parking lots or other school property. The Pine River-Backus Elementary School is off limits to High School students during the regular school day unless a student has a pass to enter that building.

Pine River-Backus High School does not have a universal open lunch policy. Students are not permitted to leave campus for lunch unless given permission. Food items are not to be delivered or brought into the building.

The weight room/gyms may not be used unless under the direct supervision of a teacher/coach.

Technology Use

A technology use policy is in effect in the Pine River-Backus Schools and is available in the offices of the various schools. A parent permission form must be signed for students to be able to access the Internet on school district computers. These forms are available at the administration offices of each building.

Students are responsible for good behavior on school computer networks just as they are in a classroom or school hallway. Communications on the network are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communications apply. The network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Access to network services is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Access is a privilege – not a right – and entails responsibility. Individual users of the district computer networks are responsible for their behavior and communications over those networks.

It is presumed that users will comply with district standards; the district is not responsible for restricting, monitoring or controlling the communications of individuals utilizing the network. Network storage areas may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators may review files/communications to maintain system integrity and insure that users are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on district servers would always be private. All Pine River-Backus School Board policies must be adhered to. Violations may result in a loss of access as well as other action.

The following are not permitted:

Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures; Using obscene language;
Harassing, insulting or attacking others; Using another’s password;
Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks;
Violating copyright laws; Violation of any local, state or federal statutes.
Trespassing in another person’s folder, work or files; Employing the network for commercial purposes;

The user requirements contained in the Chromebook Procedures & Information Handbook renews automatically each year (sign once).

You can call the principal to revoke your child’s use of a Chromebook.

Social Media Responsibilities

Attending and competing for Pine River-Backus High School is a privilege. Participants in athletics and activities are held in the highest regard and are seen as role models in the community. As students you have the responsibility to portray your team, your coaches, our school, and yourselves in a positive manner at all times. Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites have increased in popularity globally, and are used by the majority of students in one form or another.

Students should be aware that third parties–including the media, staff, future employers and college officials–could easily access your profiles and view all personal information. This includes all pictures, videos, comments and posters. Inappropriate material found by third parties affects the perception of the student, student-athlete and our school. This can also be detrimental to a student’s future options (i.e. college, profession). Examples of inappropriate and offensive behaviors concerning participation in online communities may include depictions or presentations of the following:

Photos, videos, or comments showing the personal use of alcohol, drugs and/or tobacco
Photos, videos, and comments that are of a sexual nature. This includes links to websites of a pornographic nature and other inappropriate material.
Pictures, videos, comments or posters that condone drug-related activity. This includes but is not limited to images that portray the personal use of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Content online that is deemed unsportsmanlike, derogatory, demeaning or threatening toward any other individual or entity (examples: derogatory comments regarding another school; taunting comments aimed at a student-athlete, coach or team at another school and derogatory comments against race and/or gender) will not be tolerated. No posts should depict or encourage unacceptable, violent or illegal activities (examples: hazing, sexual harassment/assault, gambling, discrimination, fighting, vandalism, academic dishonesty, underage drinking, and illegal drug use).

If you are ever in doubt of the appropriateness of your online public material, consider whether it upholds and positively reflects your own values and ethics as well as those of Pine River-Backus High School. Remember, always present a positive image and do not do anything to embarrass yourself, the team, your family or PRB HS.

Disaster Drills

From time to time throughout the year we will have fire drills, tornado drills and lockdown procedures. Please be ready to respond when signals are given without waiting for instructions from the teacher. You should make sure you know in advance where you are to go for each type of drill from each room you use regularly.

Please understand that these drills are potential lifesavers in a real emergency so you need to take them seriously. Fire alarm exit procedures are posted in each classroom and will be reviewed periodically.

Cars/Trucks & Other Motorized Vehicles

Automobile access to the campus is considered a privilege, not a right. Safe and courteous driving is expected of every student driver. Students finding it necessary to drive to school should drive carefully at all times.

No student may occupy his/her or any other car during the school day. This includes lunch hour. Violators of this regulation will be subject to disciplinary action. The above rules also apply to motorcycles, snowmobiles and ATV’s. Student parking is limited to the front lot located in the front entrance of the high school building only. Cars improperly parked may be towed at the owner’s expense.

Driving and parking privileges may be revoked or suspended for the following reasons:

Reckless driving or speeding on school grounds; Excessive vehicle noise
Unauthorized use of the vehicle during the school day or at a school activity. Doors are to be kept locked. Students are responsible for anyone in their car whether or not they have been given permission.
Excessive tardiness, truancy or absences where driving is determined to be a factor
Any accident on school property when the student is at fault
Continued parking in non-designated locations
Failure to follow posted parking regulations and signs; Failure to yield right-of-way to buses

The school is not responsible for the automobile or its contents.

There is to be no loitering in the parking lot or visitation in the parking lot without permission. Students may only park in the student parking lot. Student vehicles may be subject to search if there is reasonable suspicion that a student’s vehicle contains an item that is a violation of school policy.

Field Trips

On trips representing the school, students must bear in mind that their behavior reflects not only on themselves, but also on PRB High School and the community. Therefore, each student shall be accountable for any adverse publicity that he/she may cause. When a student goes to an event with a class, group or team, he/she must return on the bus. Any other arrangements must be made prior to the trip with the teacher, coach or administrator. The only exception will be when parents request in person to take a student home. A parent signature will be required. Students who misbehave on a field trip are subject to disciplinary action.

Extra & Co-Curricular Eligibility Requirements

Students are encouraged to participate in the many activities that are offered at Pine River-Backus High School. Students need to prioritize academics above participation in activities. Students receiving special education services are expected to follow the same academic standards unless specifically addressed in their IEP. The Pine River-Backus HS academic eligibility policies and procedures apply to all students participating in athletic and fine arts activities, as well as Knowledge Bowl, Student Council, Speech, Interact, Robotics, BPA, Homecoming and SnoDaze court. Band and choir contests, both individual and group, are governed by this academic policy when they are sanctioned and affiliated with the MSHSL.

Eligibility Checks:

At mid-quarter and the end of each quarter during the school year, teachers will submit a report to the office indicating the academic status (warning or ineligible) identifying all students who are currently failing or in danger of failing. Students who are failing are placed on the list as Ineligible. Students who are in danger of failing are on the list as Warning. A student will be ineligible for extracurricular activities if he/she fails one or more classes or receives an incomplete. The specific evaluation dates will be posted on the school website. Any students who receive a failing grade at the end of the school year will be ineligible if they are still participating in a spring sport; if they are not out for a spring sport, they will be ineligible for the first scheduled event of the fall activity in which they participate.

At the end of grading periods these grades will be used, quarter one grade, semester one grade, quarter 3 grade and semester 2 grades.

Non-traditional students (PSEO, Online, Etc.) will be held to the same standards. These students’ grades will be evaluated when they are made available to the school from the supervising party.

Once a student is on the list and declared Ineligible, the student remains ineligible for the duration of the ineligibility period and until their academic standing is deemed as adequate.

In order to make adjustments for competitions, coaches/advisors will be notified of ineligible students via an emailed list containing both Warning and Ineligible students.

Office staff will send reminders at the appropriate time and date to remind teachers about the list. The List will be shared with the Athletic Director, PRB Dean of Students, and PRB High School Principal. Teachers and coaches requesting to see the list will be limited and at the discretion of prior said positions.

Deadlines will be established for turning in assignments to allow teachers adequate time to correct the assignments and update Infinite Campus prior to the eligibility check.

Rules of Ineligibility

Incomplete: May be eligible as soon as the incomplete is made up.
One Failing Grade: Ineligible for 5 school days of play. Student may practice during this time. Grades must be passing at the end of five days to be eligible to participate in games, matches and/ or competitions.
Two or More Failing Grades: Ineligible for 10 school days of play. Student may begin to practice when only one failing grade remains. All grades must be passing to be eligible to participate in games, matches and/or competitions.
Fine Arts Eligibility: Students in band and/or chorus (grades 7-12) will be eligible to perform in concerts even though they have received and “F” or an “I” in any class. They will not be eligible for MSHSL sponsored Fine Arts’ performance contests.

**Any student who has a failed course on their transcript and has been declared ineligible on the list is to report to the ALC for credit recovery on both Tuesdays of the ineligibility period until that credit has been earned**

Minnesota State High School League Bylaws As members of the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) we enforce and abide by all of its rules and regulations. The Pine River-Backus HS Student Handbook contains sections and excerpts from the MSHSL Official Handbook. For a complete copy of the MSHSL Official Handbook, please visit the league website at http://www.mshsl.org

Minnesota State High School League Bylaws: http://www.mshsl.org

As members of the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) we enforce and abide by all of its rules and regulations. The Pine River-Backus HS Student Handbook contains sections and excerpts from the MSHSL Official Handbook. For a complete copy of the MSHSL Official Handbook, please visit the league website.

Bylaw 205 Chemical Eligibility:

A student shall not at any time, regardless of the quantity:
- Use or consume, have in possession a beverage containing alcohol;
- Use or consume, have in possession tobacco; or,
- Use or consume, have in possession, buy, sell or give away any other controlled substance or drug paraphernalia

Penalties for Category 1 Activities:

First Violation: After a violation has been determined, the student shall lose eligibility for the next two (2) consecutive interscholastic contests or two (2) weeks of a season in which the student is a participant, whichever is greater. No exception is permitted for a student who joins a treatment program.
Second Violation: After a violation has been determined, the student shall lose eligibility for the next six (6) consecutive interscholastic contests or three (3) weeks of a season in which the student is a participant, whichever is greater. No exception is permitted for a student who joins a treatment program.
Third or Subsequent Violation: After a violation has been determined, the student shall lose eligibility for the next twelve (12) consecutive interscholastic contests or four (4) weeks, whichever is greater, of a season in which the student is a participant.
- A student who chooses to become a participant in a treatment program may become eligible for participation after a minimum period of six (6) weeks after entering treatment if all of the following conditions are met:
  - The student is assessed as chemically dependent,
  - Enters treatment voluntarily, and
  - The director of the treatment center certifies that the student has successfully completed the treatment program. Successful completion of a chemical treatment program will satisfy only the most recent violation. Any other violations for which the penalty has not been satisfied must still be served in full.

Accumulative penalties: Penalties shall be accumulated beginning with and continuing throughout the student’s participation on any team or activity in grades 7-12.

Bylaw 206 Good Standing and General Eligibility Requirements

Good Standing: In order to be eligible for regular season and League tournament competition a student must be in good standing.
1. Definition: The term “good standing” shall mean that the student is eligible under all of the conditions and eligibility requirements of that school as well as the eligibility requirements of the Minnesota State High School League.

Student Code of Responsibilities: Participation in interscholastic activities is a privilege that is accompanied by responsibility. As a student participating in League sponsored activities, I understand and accept the following responsibilities: I WILL…
1. respect the rights and beliefs of others and will treat others with courtesy and consideration.
2. be fully responsible for my own actions and the consequences of my actions.
3. respect the rights and property of others.
4. respect and obey the rules of my school and the laws of my community, state and country.
5. show respect to those who are responsible for enforcing the rules of my school and the laws of my community, state and country.

Penalty: A student who is dismissed from school or who violates the Student Code of Responsibilities is not in good standing and is ineligible for a period of time as determined by the school principal acting on the authority of the local board of education. The League specifically recognizes that certain conduct requires penalties that may exceed those penalties typically imposed for first violations. For example, when a student is suspended from school, the student is not in good standing and cannot begin to serve the participation penalty until the student has completed the suspension from school and is returned to good standing.

Bylaw 409 Responsibility for Participating Teams, Students and Spectators

MSHSL minimal behavior expectations for regular and postseason tournament competitions

Respect the American flag and the National Anthem
Spectators must wear clothing that covers the entire torso. Those who do not comply or who wear clothing that is vulgar, obscene or that in some other way inappropriate, as determined by school/tournament personnel, will be removed from the arena/stadium if they do not cooperate with this behavior expectation
The use of appropriate language is expected at all times. Profanity, negative chants, booing, trash talk, name calling, personal attacks or other acts of disrespect are unacceptable and must be immediately addressed by school and/or tournament administrators
Respect the game/contest. Under no condition shall anyone other than the members of the official squad enter the playing surface. No one may interfere with the contest in any way
Hand held signs, which do not obstruct the view of others, will be permitted provided they are in good taste. Signs, message boards, “white” boards or other similar items contest/tournament officials deem to be in poor taste will be removed
Signs on sticks, balloons, or any other type of artificial, celebratory items are not permitted
Artificial noisemakers (i.e. megaphones, cowbells, sirens, whistles, thunder sticks, and other similar items) are not permitted
Laser lights are strictly prohibited

Parent Teacher Conferences

Parent/teacher conferences are scheduled twice a year; once in the fall and once in the spring. Parents are urged to call teachers when they have any questions or concerns. Parents and students may access daily attendance and grades online through their family access account. Students and parents are given a pass code allowing access to your student’s grades and assignments. This account may be accessed through the school website by visiting www.prbschools.org. Please stop by the high school office if you have not received your username and password.

Academic Policies

Make-Up Work

When a student has been absent for a legitimate reason, the number of days given to complete and receive credit for the work will be equivalent to the number of days classmates had to complete the assignment. Students should be prepared to take tests on the day returning to school if the test was announced previously or absence was for one day. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain assignments to be completed. Students may not be allowed to make up work missed due to an unexcused absence.

Incomplete Grades

A student is given an “I” for incomplete work only if extended illness or some other situation beyond the student’s control prevents completion of work by the end of the grading period. An “I” counts as a failure in computing academic athletic eligibility. A student is given no more than one day for each day absent to make up work. The maximum limit is two weeks after which the “I” becomes an “F”. The student receiving an “I” has the responsibility to contact the teacher to determine what work is expected and the date it is due. The teacher giving an “I” has the responsibility to inform the student what is expected in order to meet the grading requirements and the date by which the “I” must be cleared. The teacher must then report the grade promptly to the school office.

Graduation Requirements

Seventh and Eighth Grade:

Students must satisfactorily complete the Pine River-Backus High School 7th and 8th grade programs. Every student will take five required courses each year: English, American History/Geography, Math, Life Science/Earth Science and Physical Education/Health. Every student will also take 3.5 elective courses each year. Electives may change each year. Promotions and retention are based on an evaluation of academic, physical, social and emotional growth. Students will be promoted to the next grade on the advice of the faculty and approval of the principal.

Ninth through Twelfth Grade:

Any waiver of requirements will be granted only with the principal’s approval.

Required Courses

Required Credits Summary

Total Required Credits

Credits toward graduation will only be accepted from authorized, accredited schools.

Students who qualify for special education may be granted permission to pursue alternative programs leading to graduation. These programs will be developed by the special education department and approved by the administration.

Teacher term overrides may be considered under unusual circumstances.

Graduation Attire

Graduates may wear any of the following clothing for graduation: dress pants, dress capris, skirts and dresses. No jeans, shorts, flip-flops or sunglasses will be permitted. There should not be any type of outerwear or jewelry on the outside of the graduation gown.

Students will be monitored for appropriate clothing and may be pulled from the graduation line if not dressed appropriately.

Schedule Changes

Students may change schedules. The deadline for changing classes is two days after the start of the semester. Students taking online courses will be held to the standard of the state colleges of the State of Minnesota. Students who drop out of a class after the fourth week of a semester will receive a “NC” on the report card. The “NC” can be removed only by successful completion of the class OR TRANSFER OF THE STUDENT TO THE ALC. Grading will be done by semester. Semester tests will be administered in every class.

Student Records

The school will maintain records on all students. Information included in these records may not be released without written parental consent except under two circumstances: One, a transcript of student records will be forwarded to another school when a student transfers; two, a transcript will be sent when a student applies for admission or scholarship to a post-secondary institution. Parents and students may view these records upon giving written a request to the office.

Honor Roll

Honor roll is determined each semester based on the student’s grade point average for that semester. Students must be enrolled full time at the high school in order to qualify for the honor roll. To be included on the “B” honor roll a student must have at least a 3.00 GPA and no grade lower than a C-. To be included on the “A” honor roll a student must have at least a 3.60 GPA and no grade lower than a B-. Grade point averages are calculated using the values shown.

Grade point average is determined by the grades you have received in courses, the credits in each course, divided by the number of credits attempted. Pass/No Pass will have no grade point average assigned. Students who have NC for attendance or D’s, F’s, or incompletes on their report cards will not be considered for the honor roll.

Honor Graduates

Those seniors with a cumulative GPA of 3.60 or higher from grades 9-12 will be recognized as honor graduates and high honor graduates at commencement. Seniors who have NC’s or incompletes on their report card may not be considered graduating with high honors or honors.

National Honor Society

Selection to the National Honor Society is an honor. It is recognition that a student has achieved an excellent academic record and also made important contributions to his/her school and community. Good scholarship is combined with service, character and leadership. To be eligible for membership one must be at least a junior at PRB and have a minimum of a 3.3 GPA. A student must also have demonstrated those elements of service, character and leadership in ways for making a good world. A faculty council will review the candidate’s application and determine who will be accepted for membership.