Mission Statement:

The mission of Columbia High School is to prepare all students to become productive and responsible citizens, to achieve success by creating a community of life-long learners and to develop higher level thinking skills and foster creativity in a complex and demanding society.

COLUMBIA HIGH FOREVER

Columbia High forever, firm together stand,

Comrades true and faithful,

Steadily we’ll face the world so fearlessly.

And through the days that follow,

We pledge our loyalty.

For Maroon and White, with all our might,

We’ll FIGHT FOR VICTORY!

COLUMBIA - BRAZORIA I. S. D. BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Lynn Klement, President

Billy Jenn, Vice-President Linda Huebner, Secretary

Johnathan Champagne, Member Wendy Monical, Member

Stephen Alexander, Member Becky Danford, Member

DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION

Carol Bertholf, Superintendent

Steven Galloway, Assistant Superintendent

Lynn Grell-Boethel, Executive Director of Federal and Special Programs

Sena Yates, Executive Director of Curriculum/Staff Development Facilitator

Dee Ann Ogburn, Executive Director of Business Services

Leland Surovik, Director of Athletic Services

Scott Williams, Director of Maintenance Services

John Craig, Director of Transportation Services

Jenieffe Heaven, Director of Child Nutrition Services

Clint Kocurek, Director of Technology Services

COLUMBIA-BRAZORIA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

520 South 16^th Street

P.O. Box 158

West Columbia, Texas 77486-0158

(979) 345-5147

Fax: (979) 345-4890

Revised –7/09/09 Website address: www. cbisd.com

COLUMBIA HIGH SCHOOL

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Principal........................................................................... Joe Longoria

Assistant principal (11^th & 12^th)………………………...Chris Miller

Assistant principal (9^th & 10^th)......................................... Mary McCarthy

GUIDANCE COUNSELORS

9th & 10th …………………………………………………...Kristi Kucera

11th & 12th ………………………………………………….Bobbie Westbrook

Brazosport College Shared Counselor……………………….Robert Holcombe

At-Risk Facilitator……………………………………………Carol Henkes

RESOURCE CENTER

Librarian........................................................................... Allison Owens

Clerk................................................................................ Melissa Clark

HEALTH SERVICES

School Nurse.................................................................... Loretta Washington

SPECIAL EDUCATION

LSSP................................................................................ Jennifer Kelley

Clerk................................................................................ Becky Wilson

DEPARTMENT CHAIRS

English……………………………………………….Laurie Kincannon

Fine Arts/CATE……………………………………...Terry German

Math………………………………………………….Nancy Taylor

Science……………………………………………….Darlene Jones

Social Studies………………………………………...Laurie Kincannon

Special Education…………………………………….Susan Harang

ADMINISTRATIVE PARAPROFESSIONAL STAFF

Principal’s Secretary/Campus Secretary…………………… Jenny Kincannon

Assistant Principals’ Secretary............................................... Gleda Krueger

Receptionist/Attendance Clerk.............................................. Jacque Landry

Registrar................................................................................. Neva McGaughey

Guidance Secretary................................................................ Nancy Weber

Data Entry Clerk.................................................................... Ingrid Traylor

COLUMBIA – BRAZORIA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Administration Building (979) 345-5147

Carol Bertholf Superintendent x1102

Steven Galloway Asst. Superintendent x1807

Dee Ann Ogburn Executive Director of Business Services x1120

Lynn Grell-Boethel Ex. Dir. of Federal and Special Program x1109

Sena Yates Ex. Dir. of Curriculum x1104

Leland Surovik Director of Athletic Services x2901

Clint Kocurek Director of Technology x1864

Scott Williams Director of Maintenance Services x1803 John Craig Director of Transportation Services x1821

Jenieffe Heaven Director of Child Nutrition Services x1841

Campus Administration

School Administrator Phone

Columbia High School Joe Longoria (979) 345-5147

521 S. 16^th St.

West Brazos Junior High Alice Batchelor (979) 799-1700

20022 Hwy 36, Brazoria

Wild Peach Elementary (979) 798-9193

CR 353, Brazoria

Barrow Elementary Patricia Heidel (979) 799-1700

112 Gaines, Brazoria

West Columbia Elementary Kathy Humbird (979) 345-5191

711 South Gray

C-BISD Police Department Danny Hankins, Chief (979) 345-5147 x2004

		COLUMBIA HIGH SCHOOL STAFF - 2009 - 2010
phone ext	ADMINISTRATION		ASSIGNMENT	EMAIL
2001	Longoria	Joe	Principal	joe.longoria@cbisd.com
2004	Hankins	Danny	Police chief	danny.hankins@cbisd.com
2003	McCarthy	Mary	Asst. Principal	mary.mccarthy@cbisd.com
2005	Miller	Chris	Asst. Principal	chris.miller@cbisd.com
2901	Surovik	Leland	Athletic Director	leland,surovik@cbisd.com
	Non-teaching professionals
2018	Henkes	Carol	At-Risk Facilitator	carol.henkes@cbisd.com
2025	Holcombe	Bob	Shared Counselor-BC	bob.holcombe@cbisd.com
2551	Kelly	Jennifer	LSSP	jennifer.kelly@cbisd.com
2017	Kucera	Kristi	Counselor	kristie.kucera@cbisd.com
2011	Owens	Allison	Librarian	elizabeth.owens@cbisd.com
2010	Washington	Loretta	Nurse	loretta.washington@cbisd.com
2016	Westbrook	Bobbi	Counselor	bobbi.westbrook@cbisd.com
	TEACHERS
2511	Amos	Thomas	Social Studies	thomas.amos@cbisd.com
2517	Bacica	Amy	Math	amy.bacica@cbisd.com
2510	Baker	Helen	Spec. Ed – Comm. 1-4	helen.baker@cbisd.com
2905	Blackstock	Will	Science/Athletic trainer	will.blackstock@cbisd.com
2408	Calderon	Ana	Spanish	ana.calderon@cbisd.com
2608	Carr	Jake	BCIS/Athletics	jake.carr@cbisd.com
2403	Carr	Kathryn	English/Athletics	kathryn.carr@cbisd.com
2508	Chalmers	Sam	Math/Athletics	sam.chalmers@cbisd.com
2305	Cummings	Velton	Behavioral Management	velton.cummings@cbisd.com
2406	Denbow	Michael	Social Studies	michael.denbow@cbisd.com
2103	Douglas	Barbara	BCIS/BIMM/Accounting	barbara.douglas@cbisd.com
2201	Douglas	Ed	Science	edward.douglas@cbisd.com
2203	Earhart	Stephanie	Science	stephanie.earhart@cbisd.com
2409	Gerbich	Chris	Social Studies/Athletics	chris.gerbich@cbisd.com
2030	German	Terry	Theatre Arts/Debate/UIL	terry.german@cbisd.com
2702	Green	Sammy	VAC/OJT/CMC	sammy.green@cbisd.com
2506	Harang	Susan	CMC/Apmath	susan.harang@cbisd.com
2507	Hoppock	Harland	Social Studies/Athletics	harland.hoppock@cbisd.com
2204	Jones	Darlene	Science	darlene.jones@cbisd.com
2410/2703	Jones	Lauren	Social Studies/Dance/Drill team	lauren.jones@cbisd.com
2505	Kincannon	Laurie	English/Social Studies	laurie.kincannon@cbisd.com
2105/2109	Kirchhoff	Faith	PFD/Food Sci/Child Dev	faith.kirchhoff@cbisd.com
2304	Knox	Susan	PALS	susan.knox@cbisd.com
2411	Langner	Houston	Spanish	houston.langner@cbisd.com
2519	Lawrence	Robert	Math	robert.lawrence@cbisd.com
2020	Marble	Randy	Band Director/AP music/Jazz band	randy.marble@cbisd.com
2509	McReynolds	Bob	Social Studies/ATH	robert.mcreynolds@cbisd.com
2106	Miller	Candyce	English/Journ/Yearbook/Newspaper	candyce.miller@cbisd.com
2015	Moore	Marianne	Lifeskills	marianne.moore@cbisd.com
2414	Muchowich	Sorona	Spanish	sorona.muchowich@cbisd.com
2310	Murphy	Shelly	Aerobics/Dance/ATH	shelly.murphy@cbisd.com
2560	Murphy	Stephen	DEAP	stephen.murphy@cbisd.com
2513	Parish	Brooke	English	brooke.parish@cbisd.com
2405	Raley	Greg	Health/ATH	greg.raley@cbisd.com
2205	Rao	Nancy	Science	nancy.rao@cbisd.com
2504	Ray	Annie	Comm App	annie.ray@cbisd.com
2019	Richardson	John	Choir	john.richardson@cbisd.com
2110	Roberson	Greg	Art 1,2,3,4	greg.roberson@cbisd.com
2206	Rosa	Glenda	Science	glenda.rosa@cbisd.com
2701	Reue	Jason	Agriculture	jason.reue@cbisd.com
2503	Shank	Carrie	English	carrie.shank@cbisd.com
2407	Shank	Jeffrey	Social Studies/ATH	jeff.shank@cbisd.com
2604	Smith	Jenny	BCIS/CO-OP	jenny.smith@cbisd.com
2502	Spear	Holly	English	holly.spear@cbisd.com
2101	Swinscoe	Sharon	Health Science Technology	sharon.swinscoe@cbisd.com
2520	Taylor	Nancy	Math	nancy.taylor@cbisd.com
2518	Thomas	Anh	Math	anh.thomas@cbisd.com
2603	Thomas	Doris	PE/ATH	doris.thomas@cbisd.com
2616	Trevino	Angel	Math/ATH	angel.trevino@cbisd.com
2404/2309	Vernor	John	Business/ATH	john.vernor@cbisd.com
2311/2512	Ward	Patrice	Apmath/DAEP/ATH	patrice.ward@cbisd.com
2208	Willey	Van	Science	van.willey@cbisd.com
2515	Wolverton	Steven	English	steven.wolverton@cbisd.com
	Secretaries/Aides
2402	Ashley	Gloria	ISS Aide	gloria.ashley@cbisd.com
2014	Barrier	Robin	Sp. Ed. Aid	robin.barrier@cbisd.com
2012	Clark	Melissa	Library Aide	melissa.clark@cbisd.com
2004	Cole	Joy	Security	joy.cole@cbisd.com
2306	Dedmon	Priscilla	BAC aide	priscilla.dedmon@cbisd.com
2702	Griffin	Debra	Sp. Ed. Aide	debra.griffin@cbisd.com
2000	Kincannon	Jennifer	Principal’s Secretary	jennifer.kincannon@cbisd.com
2014	King	Donna	Sp. Ed. Aide	donna.king@cbisd.com
2506	Kingery	Julie	Sp. Ed. Aide	julie.kingrey@cbisd.com
2006	Krueger	Gleda	Asst. Principals' secretary/Attend	gleda.krueger@cbisd.com
2023	McGaughey	Neva	Registrar	neva.mcgaughey@cbisd.com
2606	Scott	Linda	Credit recovery	linda.scott@cbisd.com
2900	Shaw	Kandy	Athletic secretary	kandy.shaw@cbisd.com
2561	Stewart	Samantha	Technology Aid	samantha.stewart@cbisd.com
2702	Simple	Bess	Sp. Ed. Aide	bess.simple@cbisd.com
2024	Traylor	Ingrid	Data Entry Clerk	ingrid.traylor@cbisd.com
2022	Weber	Nancy	Counselor's Secretary	nancy.weber@cbisd.com
2550	Wilson	Becky	Sp. Ed. Secretary	becky.wilson@cbisd.com
	CIS
2026/2104	Newton	Sheila	CIS	sheila.newton@cbisd.com

ATTENTION

Parents and Guardians

This packet contains information that must be read by a parent/guardian and/or student

and

Acknowledged by the parent/guardian

and/or student’s signature

as designated

and

Returned to the campus promptly

Acknowledgement Form

My child and I have received a copy of the Columbia High School Student Handbook and the Columbia – Brazoria Independent School District Student Code of Conduct for 2009–2010. I understand that the handbook contains information that my child and I may need during the school year and that all students will be held accountable for their behavior and will be subject to the disciplinary consequences outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.

Printed name of student:

Signature of student:

Signature of parent:

Date:

PARENT’S RESPONSE REGARDING RELEASE OF INFORMATION TO MILITARY RECRUITERS AND INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION

Federal law requires that the district release to military recruiters and institutions of higher education, upon request, the name, address, and phone number of secondary school students enrolled in the district, unless the parent or eligible student directs the district not to release information to these types of requestors without prior written consent.

Parent: Please complete the following only if you do not want your child’s information released to a military recruiter or an institution of higher education without your prior consent.

I, parent of ______________________________ (student’s name) requests that the District not release my child’s name, address, and telephone number to a military recruiter or institutions of higher education upon their request without my prior written consent.

Parent Signature Date

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT

Please sign below to grant permission to use corporal punishment. If you do not sign and return the form, corporal punishment may be used as a disciplinary option. Check one from the choices below.

_________Permission to administer corporal punishment IS granted.

_________Permission to administer corporal punishment IS NOT granted.

Parent Signature ______________________________________ Date __________________________

Acknowledgement Form

The Columbia – Brazoria Independent School District has designated the following information as directory information.

Directory information includes my child’s:

1. Student’s Name

2. Address

3. Telephone listing

4. Email Address

5. Photograph

6. Date and place of birth

7. Major field of study

8. Degrees, honors, and awards received

9. Dates of attendance

10. Grade level

11. Most recent school previously attended

12. Participation in officially recognized activities and sports

13. Weight and height, if a member of an athletic team

14. Enrollment status

In exercising my rights to limit the release of this information, I have marked through the items of directory information listed that I direct the District not to release without my prior written consent.

Print name of student: ____________________________________________________________

Signature of student: ____________________________________________________________

Signature of parent: ____________________________________________________________

Date: ____________________________________________________________

Table of Contents

CBISD - CHS INFORMATION

CHS Mission Statement………………............................................ ……… 2

CHS School Song…………………………………………………………… 2

CBISD Board of Trustees……………………………………………………. 2

CBISD Administration………………………………………………………. 2, 4

CBISD Address……………………………………………………………… 2

CHS Staff Directory…………………………………………………………. 3, 5-7

CBISD Calendar……………………………………………………………... 1

CHS Campus Map…………………………………………………………… 60

Signature Pages……………………………………………………………….. 8-9

GENERAL INFORMATION

Absences / attendance …………………………………………………………... 13, 14

Announcements.......................................................................................................... 15

Assemblies …………………………………………………………………………..... 15

Awards, Honors, and Scholarships................................................................ 15

Bell Schedule……………………………………………………………………….. 15

Cafeteria Services.................................................................................................... 16

Campus Improvement Council……………………………………………………. 16

Change of Address.................................................................................................... 16

Closed Campus………………………………………………………………………. 16

Complaints and Concerns.................................................................................... 16

Computer Resources................................................................................................ 17

Conferences………………………………………………………………………...... 17

Counseling…………………………………………………………………………..... 17

Crime Stoppers ……………………………………………………………………..... 17

Deliveries to Students........................................................................................... 18

Distribution of Published Materials and Documents........................ 18

Enrollment Information ………………………………………………………… 18, 19

Extracurricular Activities, Clubs, and Organizations.................. 19

Extracurricular Activities, Clubs, and Organizations Code of Conduct 19, 20

Fees……………………………………………………………………………………...... 21

Fundraising................................................................................................................... 21

Homeless Students ................................................................................................... 21

Identification Badges............................................................................................. 21

Incomplete Grades.................................................................................................... 21

Internet Access ....................................................................….................................. ..... 21

Library and Media Services………………………………………………………… 22

Lockers............................................................................................................................ ..... 22

Lost and Found………………………………………………………………………...... 22

Make up Work……………………………………………………………………………. 22

Parent Involvement, Responsibilities, and Rights................................ ..... 22, 23

Pledges of Allegiance and a Minute of Silence………………………………… 25

Prayer............................................................................................................................... ..... 25

Promotion and Retention..................................................................................... ..... 25

Release of Students from School................................................................... ..... 25

Report Cards, Progress Reports, and Conferences........................ ..... 25

Reteach and Retest............................................................................................. ..... 26

SAFETY……………………………………………………………………………………. 26

School Facilities…………………………………………………………………….. 26, 27

School Service Students................................................................................. ..... 27

Semester Examinations.................................................................................... ..... 27, 28

Service Chord Program......................................................................................... 28

Student Offices and Elections.................................................................... ..... 28

Student Records................................................................................................... ..... 28, 29

Student Speakers…………………………………………………………............... 30

Substitute Teachers........................................................................................... ..... 30

Summer School...................................................................................................... ..... 30

Telephones............................................................................................................... ..... 30

Testing………………………………………………………………………………….. 30, 31

Textbooks................................................................................................................. ..... 31

Transportation .................................................................................................... ..... 31, 32

Tutorials......................................................................................................................... 32

Vehicles on Campus............................................................................................ ..... 32

Video Cameras....................................................................................................... ..... 32

Visitors....................................................................................................................... ..... 32

Withdrawing From School............................................................................. ..... 32

Student Behavior and Conduct

Behavior management………………………………………………………………. 33

Conduct………………………………………………………………………………... 33-35

Dress Code…………………………………………………………………………….. 36, 37

Law Enforcement……………………………………………………………………. 37

Searches of Students………………………………………………………………... 38

Tardies………………………………………………………………………………….. 38, 39

Health Services

Accident Insurance……………………………………………………………….. 39

Contagious Diseases and Conditions................................................................. 39, 40

Emergency medical Treatment…………………………………………………… 40

Health Related Matters.................................................................................. ..... 40

Immunization………………………………………………………………………… 40, 41

Medicine at School…………………………………………………………………. 41

Steroids...................................................................................................................... …. 42

Academic Information

Academic Programs……………….......................................................................... 42

Advanced Placement……………………………………………………………… 42

Awarding of Credit………………………………………………………………… 42

Career and Technology Programs…............................................................ 42

Class Ranking and Grade Points……………………………………………………… 42

College Financial Information…………………………………………………… 43

Correspondence Courses/Credit by Exam…………………………………………… 44

College Courses and Dual Credit Enrollment………………………………………. 44-48

Extracurricular and UIL Eligibility…………………………………………….. 48, 49

Gifted and Talented………………………………………………………………… 49

Grade Classification……………………………………………………………….. 49

Grading Guidelines…………………………………………………………………. 49

Graduation…………………………………………………………………………… 50-51

Graduation Programs………………………………………………………………. 51, 52

Local Credit Courses………………………………………………………………... 53

Miscellaneous Information………………………………………………………… 53

NCAA Curriculum Requirements…………………………………………………… 53

Schedules and Scheduling……………………………………………………………… 54

Schedule Changes…………………………………………………………………….. 54

Special Programs....................................................................................................... 54, 55

Tech Prep……………………………………………………………………………….. 55

Course Listings……………………………………………………………………….. 55-58

PREFACE

To Students and Parents:

Welcome to school year 2009-2010! Education is a team effort, and we know that students, parents, teachers, and other school staff members all working together can make this a wonderful and successful year for our students.

The Columbia High School Student Handbook contains information students and parents are likely to need during the school year. The handbook is organized alphabetically in sections titled general information, student conduct, academic information, and health services.

Please be aware that the term “the student’s parent” is used to refer to the parent, legal guardian, or other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student.

Both students and parents should become familiar with the C.B.I.S.D. Student Code of Conduct, which is a document adopted by the board and intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. This document may be found as a separate document posted in the assistant principal’s office and posted on the district website at www.cbisd.com.

The Student Handbook is designed to be in harmony with Board policy and the Student Code of Conduct adopted by the Board. Please be aware that the handbook is updated yearly, while policy adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. Changes in policy or other rules that affect Student Handbook provisions will be made available to students and parents through newsletters and other communications.

In case of conflict between a Board policy or the Student Code of Conduct and provisions of the Student Handbook, the provisions of Board policy or the Student Code of Conduct that were most recently adopted by the board are to be followed.

After reading through the entire handbook with your child, keep it as a reference during this school year. If you or your child has questions about any of the material in this handbook, please contact the school administration.

Also, please complete and return the parental acknowledgement and consent forms so that we have a record of your choices. Including:

1. Parent acknowledgement form,

2. Student Directory Information Form,

3. Release of Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Learning Forms; and

4. Parent acknowledgement that you have received the CHS Student-Parent Handbook and the CBISD Student Code of Conduct.

Nondiscrimination Notice - Columbia-Brazoria Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, or disability in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

Columbia-Brazoria Independent School District will take steps to assure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs.

The following District staff members have been designated to coordinate compliance with these requirements:

 Title IX Compliance Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of sex:

Steven Galloway, Assistant Superintendent

(979) 345-5147, ext. 1107

520 S. 16^th Street, P.O. Box 158

West Columbia, TX 77486

 Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability:

Lynn Grell-Boethel, Director of Special Programs

(979) 345-5147, ext. 1110

520 S. 16^th Street, P.O. Box 158

West Columbia, TX 77486

ABSCENCES/ATTENDANCE

Regular school attendance is essential for the student to make the most of his or her education—to benefit from teacher-led activities, to build each day’s learning on that of the previous day, and to grow as an individual. Absences from class may result in serious disruption of the student’s mastery of the instructional materials; therefore the student and the parent should make every effort to avoid unnecessary absences. Two state laws, one dealing with compulsory attendance, the other with attendance for course credit, are of special interest to students and parents. They are discussed below:

Compulsory Attendance - State law requires that a student between the ages of six and 18 attend school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction programs, extended year programs, or tutorial sessions, unless the student is excused from attendance or legally exempt. A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her 18^th birthday is required to attend each school day until the end of the school year and is subject to compulsory attendance laws, if the student is under 21 years old. In addition, if a student 18 or older has more than five unexcused absences in a semester the district may revoke the student’s enrollment. The student presence on school property thereafter would be unauthorized and may be considered trespassing. [See FEA]

School employees must investigate and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law. A student absent without permission from school; from any class; from required special programs, such as additional special instruction (termed “accelerated instruction” by the state) assigned by a grade placement committee and basic skills for ninth graders; or from required tutorials will be considered in violation of the compulsory attendance law and subject to disciplinary action.

A court of law may also impose penalties against both the student and his or her parents if a school-aged student is deliberately not attending school. A complaint against the parent may be filed in the appropriate court if the student:

§ Is absent from school on ten or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same school year, or

§ Is absent on three or more or parts of days within a four-week period.

If the student is over 18, the student’s parent shall not be subject to penalties as a result of their child’s violation of the state compulsory attendance law. [See policy FEA(LEGAL)]

Attendance for Credit

To receive credit in a class, a student must attend at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered. A student who attends at least 75 percent but fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is offered may receive credit for the class if he or she completes a plan approved by the principal that allows the student to fulfill the instructional requirements for the class. If a student is involved in a criminal or juvenile court proceeding, the approval of the presiding judge over the case will also be required before the student receives credit for the class.

If a student attends less than 75 percent of the days a class is offered or has not completed the plan approved by the principal, then the student will be referred to the attendance review committee to determine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain credit, if appropriate. [See policies at FEC]

In determining whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences, the attendance committee will use the following guidelines:

§ All absences will be considered in determining whether a student has attended the required percentage of days. If the make-up work is completed, absences for religious holy days and health care appointments will be considered days of attendance for this purpose. [See policies at FEB]

§ A transfer or migrant student begins to accumulate absences only after he or she has enrolled in the District. For a student transferring into the District after school begins, including a migrant student, only those absences after enrollment will be considered.

§ In reaching a decision about a student’s absences, the committee will attempt to ensure that it is in the best interest of the student.

§ The committee will consider the acceptability and authenticity of documented reasons for the student’s absences.

§ The committee will consider whether the absences were for reasons over which the student or the student’s parents could exercise any control.

§ The committee will consider the extent to which the student has completed all assignments, mastered the essential knowledge and skills, and maintained passing grades in the course or subject.

§ The student or parent will be given the opportunity to present any information to the committee about the absences and to talk about ways to earn or regain credit.

Parent Note After an Absence - When a student must be absent from school, the student—upon returning to school—must bring a note, signed by the parent that describes the reason for the absence. A note signed by the student, even with the parent’s permission, will not be accepted unless the student is 18 or older. The note must be submitted to the office within three school days.

Doctor’s Note After an Absence for Illness – Upon return to school, a student must bring a statement from a doctor or health clinic verifying the illness or condition that caused the student’s extended absence from school. [See FEC(LOCAL)]

Driver License Attendance Verification - To obtain a driver license, a student between the ages of 16 and 18 must annually provide to the Texas Department of Public Safety a form obtained from the school verifying that the student has met the 90 percent attendance requirement for the semester preceding the date of application. The student can obtain this form in the attendance office.

College Visitation - Prior approval of the principal is required. Proper documentation from the college must be submitted to the attendance office.

Please note:

· A student must be present the entire school day.

· A student absent from any class for any reason other than for a documented health care appointment will not be allowed to participate in school-related activities on that day or evening.

· When a student must be absent from school, the student—upon returning to school—must bring a note, signed by the parent that describes the reason for the absence. A note signed by the student, even with the parent’s permission, will not be accepted unless the student is 18 or older. Notes should be brought to the attendance office by 7:20 a.m.

· A student absent for any reason should promptly make up specific assignments missed and/or complete additional in-depth study assigned by the teacher. A student who does not make up assigned work within the time allotted by the teacher will receive a grade of zero for the assignment.

· Class time is important. Doctor’s appointments should be scheduled, if possible, at times when the student will not miss instructional time.

· A student must submit an excuse to the office within three school days.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Announcements should be turned in to the assistant principal’s office by 2:00 P. M. on the day before the announcement is to be made. Announcements for clubs and organizations must be approved by the sponsor of that group and an administrator. Announcements are typed, emailed to teachers daily, and will be read daily to students at the beginning of fourth period.

ASSEMBLIES

Student conduct in assemblies must meet the same standard as the classroom. A student who engages in inappropriate conduct will be subject to disciplinary action.

AWARDS, HONORS, AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Awards night will be held in May of each year for seniors. Various organizations have awards night in conjunction with a spring banquet. Underclassmen awards will be distributed in May during school hours.

Local scholarships are published with their eligibility requirements in the spring of the year and given to seniors with instructions on how to apply. Other scholarship information is shared with students as it comes into the guidance office, and students are encouraged and welcome to come to the guidance office to explore their resources on scholarships.

BELL SCHEDULE

Warning Bell 7:00

1^st Period 7:05 – 7:35 Assigned Tutorials

2^nd Period 7:40 – 8:30 (50)

3^rd Period 8:35 – 9:25 (50)

4^th Period 9:30– 10:25 (55)

5^th Period 10:30 – 11:20 (50)

6^th Period 11:25 – 12:50

1^st Lunch– 11:20 – 11:50

Class– 11:55 – 12:50 (55)

2^nd Lunch– 11:50 – 12:20

Class– 11:25 – 11:50 12:25 – 12:50 (50)

3^rd Lunch– 12:20 – 12:50

Class– 11:25 – 12:20 (55)

7^th Period 12:55 – 1:45 (50)

8^th Period 1:50 – 2:40 (50)

Tutorials 2:40 – 3:00

CAFETERIA SERVICES

· The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and National School Breakfast Program and offers to students nutritionally balanced meals daily. Free and reduced-price lunches are available based on financial need. Information about a student’s participation is confidential. Applications are available in the Guidance Office.

· The District follows the federal and state guidelines regarding foods of minimal nutritional value being served or sold on school premises during the school day. [See policy CO(LEGAL)]

· Columbia-Brazoria I.S.D. offers online access to your child’s meal account. Go to Child Nutrition under School Info or District Info at www.cbisd.com and follow the View Account Activity or Credit Card Payments links and login with your student’s ID. Deposits will typically be available on the student’s account within the hour.

· The cafeteria and snack bar are located in the student center. Students are reminded that such behavior as loud talking or cutting in line will not be tolerated. Food is to be purchased only before school and during lunch. ALL STUDENTS ARE TO PROPERLY DISPOSE OF THEIR TRASH.

· Students attending Columbia High School shall not leave campus during the school day. Students leaving campus for any reason without administrative approval shall be subject to disciplinary action. [See policy FEE(LOCAL)]

CAMPUS IMPROVEMENT COUNCIL

The CIC group serves as the campus site-based decision making committee to assist the principal. The committee shall meet for the purpose of implementing planning processes and site-based decision-making in accordance with Board policy and administrative procedure and be chaired by the principal. The committee shall serve exclusively in an advisory role except that the committee shall approve staff development of a campus nature. The committee shall be composed of campus-based professional staff, parents, business members, and community representatives. The CIC group will meet at least four times during the school year. Please contact the principal’s office at 345-5147 x2002 if you are interested in serving on the committee.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS & TELEPHONE

It is the responsibility of the parents to notify the school of a change of address and/or telephone number. Please call the attendance office to report the changes.

CLOSED CAMPUS

Columbia High School is a closed campus for all students after arrival. Students are not allowed to leave for lunch and are not allowed to bring visitors to school. Parents and Guardians may observe classes or have lunch with their child after receiving permission from the principal. Leaving school without school administrative permission will result in disciplinary action.

COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS

Usually student or parent complaints or concerns can be addressed by a phone call or a conference with the staff member involved. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled so easily, the District has adopted a standard complaint policy at policy code FNG. A copy of this policy may be found at the District website at www.cbisd.com.

Situations may arise in Columbia-Brazoria I.S.D. throughout the year which cause concern for parents, teachers and students. Resolving these situations quickly to the satisfaction of all parties involved benefits the educational program of the District. The following “STEPS” are designed to help you resolve problem situations quickly and satisfactorily. Please use these steps if you have a concern.

Steps To Eliminate Problem Situations (STEPS)

1. Contact the Appropriate Staff Member

The first step in resolving a concern is to discuss it with the staff member involved—the teacher, coach, bus driver, etc. More than 95 percent of all concerns are resolved at this level.

2. Contact the Principal

If step one does not resolve the concern, discuss it with the campus principal or program supervisor. He or she is in charge of the campus or department and the handling of concerns regarding operations and will explain policies, guidelines, and procedures.

3. Contact the Appropriate Central Administrator

If the previous steps have been unsuccessful, contact the appropriate central administrator. This may be the Assistant Superintendent, Executive Director of Special Programs, Executive Director of Curriculum, Executive Director of Business Services, or Superintendent.

4. Contact the School Board

The School Board hears concerns that have not been resolved at a previous level. To present your concern to the Board, a written request must be submitted to the superintendent by noon of the sixth day before a Board meeting.

In general, a parent or student should submit a written complaint and request a conference with the campus principal. If the concern is not resolved, a request for a conference should be sent to the Superintendent. If still unresolved, the District provides for the complaint to be presented to the Board of Trustees.

COMPUTER RESOURCES

District resources have been invested in computer technology to broaden instruction and to prepare students for an increasingly computerized society. Use of these resources is restricted to students working under a teacher’s supervision and for approved purposes only. Students and parents will be asked to sign a user agreement (separate from this handbook) regarding use of these resources; violations of this agreement may prompt termination of privileges and other disciplinary action.

Students and their parents should be aware that the use of e-mail on district computers is not private and will be monitored by district staff.

CONFERENCES

Parents and teachers are encouraged to establish and maintain communication about student progress. Parents should call the Counselors office at 345-5147 x2022 to schedule a conference during their assigned conference period. Parents may also leave a message on each teacher’s voicemail. Also, each staff member’s email address is provided in the staff directory at the beginning of the handbook.

COUNSELING

Academic Counseling

Students and their parents are encouraged to talk with a school counselor, teacher, or principal to learn more about course offerings, graduation requirements, and early graduation procedures. Each spring, students in grades 8 through 12 will be provided information on anticipated course offerings for the next year and other information that will help them make the most of academic and vocational opportunities.

To plan for the future, each student should work closely with the counselor in order to enroll in the high school courses that best prepare him or her for attendance at a college, university, or training school, or for pursuit of some other type of advanced education,. The counselor can also provide information about entrance exams and application deadlines, as well as information about automatic admission to state colleges and universities, financial aid, housing, and scholarships.

Personal Counseling

The school counselor is available to assist students with a wide range of personal concerns, including such areas as social, family, or emotional issues, and substance abuse. The counselor may also make available information about community resources to address these concerns. A student who wishes to meet with the counselor should make a request with the counselor’s secretary.

Psychological Exams, Tests, or Treatment

The school will not conduct a psychological examination, test, or treatment without first obtaining the parent’s written consent. Parental consent is not necessary when a psychological examination, test, or treatment is required by state or federal law for special education purposes or by the Texas Education Agency for child abuse investigations and reports.

[For more information, refer to FFE(legal) and FFG(EXHIBIT).]

CRIME STOPPERS

The Columbia High School Crime Stoppers phone number is 345-7606. CHS will pay you to help us solve crime. Call and give your information and be eligible for a possible cash reward. Callers remain anonymous.

DELIVERIES TO STUDENTS

Flowers, food, candy, gifts and similar items will not be delivered to students at school. The school will not accept such items for delivery or distribution to students.

DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLISHED MATERIALS OR DOCUMENTS

School Materials

Publications prepared by and for the school may be posted or distributed, with the prior approval of the principal, sponsor, or teacher. Such items may include school posters, brochures, flyers, etc.

· Student Handbook

· Student Code of Conduct