Handbook

It is the purpose of the Gainesville City School System (GCSS) to operate each school in a manner that will provide an orderly process of education that ensures the welfare and safety of all students who attend the schools within the district. In accordance with that purpose, the Board of Education has adopted a policy that requires all schools to provide codes of conduct. These require students to conduct themselves at all times in a manner that facilitates an optimum learning environment for themselves and others. GCSS has adopted this Code to support the creation of a safe learning environment for all members of the school community. The purpose of this Code is to state clearly our standards for acceptable conduct of students. The Code also explains the consequences for not meeting these standards of conduct. This Code establishes a strict policy for conduct that endangers the safety of the schools and/or disrupts the educational experience for other students. GCSS does not permit corporal punishment. The Code also sets forth the discipline procedures for students who have committed violations of the Code. This Code is not meant to be a contract between the District and the students, and may be amended at any time. It is a place for GCSS to explain certain policies applicable to students.

We expect students to:

• Respect each other

• Respect school district employees

• Obey student behavior policies adopted by the Board of Education

• Obey rules established by individual schools

The school’s primary goal is to educate, not to punish; however, when the behavior of an individual student comes in conflict with the rights of others, corrective actions may be necessary for the benefit of that individual and the school as a whole. Accordingly, students shall be governed by the policies, regulations and rules set forth in this Code of Conduct.

The Code of Conduct is effective during the following times and in the following places:
● At bus stop
● At school or on school property at any time
● Off school property at any school activity, function or event and while traveling to and from such events
● On vehicles provided for student transportation by the school system

In addition, students may be disciplined for felonious conduct off campus, which may pose a threat to the school’s learning environment or the safety of students and employees.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to become familiar with the Code of Conduct and to be supportive of it in their daily communication with their children and others in the community. We ask your cooperation in sharing this responsibility for maintaining a proper learning environment. 

The Principal is the designated leader of the school and, in concert with the staff, is responsible for the orderly operation of the school. In cases of disruptive, disorderly or dangerous conduct not covered in this Code, the principal may undertake corrective measures, which he or she believes to be in the best interest of the student, and the school provided any such action does not violate school board policy or procedures.

Students Should:

• Participate fully in the learning process. Students need to report to school and class on time, attend all regularly scheduled classes, remain in class until excused or dismissed, pay attention to instruction, complete assignments to the best of their ability, and ask for help when needed.

• Avoid behavior that impairs their own or other students’ educational achievement. Students should know and avoid the behaviors prohibited by this code, take care of books and other instructional materials, and cooperate with others.

• Show respect for the knowledge and authority of teachers, administrators, and other school employees. Students must obey reasonable directions, use acceptable and courteous language, avoid being rude and follow school rules and procedures.

• Recognize and respect the rights of other students and adults. All students should show concern for and encouragement of educational achievements and participation of others in curricular and extracurricular activities.

• Disciplinary action for violations of expected behaviors will include appropriate hearings and reviews. In all cases, the rights of individuals will be ensured and protected. The Gainesville City School System will make every reasonable effort to administer the discipline code consistently in all schools. When applicable, individualized plans (i.e. IEP, 504, and SST) will be reviewed for appropriate consequences.

Age Eligibility

• All students, including homeless, who have attained the age of five by September 1st, shall be eligible to enroll in kindergarten.

• Those who have attained the age of 6 by September 1st shall be eligible for first grade.

• Students are eligible to attend school unless they attain the age of 20 by September 1 or they have received a high school diploma or the equivalent as if they have dropped out of school for a quarter or more. Students who have not dropped out of school for a quarter or more are eligible to attend school unless they attain the age of 21 by September 1st.

• Mandatory attendance age for enrollment is age 6. Every parent, guardian, or other person residing in Georgia having control or charge of any child or children between their sixth and sixteenth birthdays is required to enroll and send such child or children in their care to a public or private school or provide a home study program for these children which meets the requirements set forth in law. If a student is enrolled prior to age 6 in a kindergarten program and attends for 20 days, then the child is subject to the provisions of compulsory school attendance.

• Students who were legal residents of one or more other states or countries for a period of two years immediately prior to moving to Georgia, and who were legally enrolled in a public kindergarten or first grade, or a kindergarten or first grade accredited by a state or regional association or the equivalent thereof shall be eligible for enrollment in the appropriate general or special education program if such child will attain the age of five for kindergarten or six for first grade by December 31 and is otherwise qualified

• Special education students, including homeless, are eligible for enrollment in appropriate education programs until they receive a high school diploma or equivalent or they reach their twenty-second (22) birthday, whichever comes first; provided, however they were enrolled during the preceding school year and had an approved Individualized Education Plan (IEP) which indicated that a successive year of enrollment was needed.

• 504, and SST) will be reviewed for appropriate consequences.

Gainesville City Schools requires the parent or guardian to provide proof of residency in the district unless the student is homeless. The student must live with the authorized person(s) who resides within the school district.

Proof of Residency - Gainesville City Schools requires the parent or guardian to provide 2 proofs of residency in the district at the time a student is initially enrolled in a school. Proof of residency may be verified by presenting one from each column below (must include address), and a picture ID of the enrolling parent/guardian. 

Students under the age of 18 must be accompanied by one of the following authorized individuals
● Parent (natural or adopted)
● Legal guardian or other person legally entitled to act on behalf of the child
● Foster parents appointed by a state agency
● Sponsor for an approved International Exchange Program.

The person who is enrolling a student should provide one of the following acceptable forms of identification for purposes of enrollment
▪ A driver’s license
▪ A state identification card
▪ A passport
 

When a student's family is residing in the home or apartment of another individual, the following is necessary for enrollment
● A notarized affidavit signed by the individual with whom the student's parent/guardian is residing verifying that enrolling parent/guardian is residing in that home or apartment. This affidavit must be notarized and witnessed at one of the Gainesville City School System locations. and
● Proof of residency documents for that individual with whom parent/guardian is residing (See Proof of Residency documents above)

For your convenience, registration is available at the Registration, located at 508 Oak Street Gainesville, GA 30501. Registration is not available at the schools. Please contact the Registration at (770) 536-5275.

Proof of residence is subject to investigation. Students enrolled under false information are illegally enrolled and will be withdrawn from school. Also, knowingly and willfully providing false information regarding proof of residence violates state law and may subject one to fine and /or imprisonment (O.C.G.A. 16-10-20).

All students entering or attending Grades Pre-K through 12th grade in the Gainesville City School System are required to have a complete Georgia Certificate of Immunization (Form 3231) in accordance with Georgia State Law, O.C.G.A. 20- 2-771 and Regulations, Chapter 290-5-4. All students must be immunized against disease as specified by the Georgia Department of Human Resources, or have a medical or religious exemption on file at the school.

Beginning in the 2014- 2015 school year, ALL 7th grade students and NEW entrants into Georgia Schools grade 8th through 12th grade, are required to have one dose of Meningococcal (meningitis) conjugate vaccine and Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) booster. Immunization information and flyers for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten and 7th Grade students are available on the website. All students enrolled in a Georgia Public School for the first time are required to file a completed Certificate of Vision, Hearing, Dental and Nutrition Screening (Form 3300) in accordance with Georgia Regulations, Chapter 290-5-31.

The Gainesville City Board of Education subscribes to a policy of good attendance and punctuality as essential to the academic performance for all students. It is the policy of the Gainesville City School Board to encourage students to attend school regularly and participate in all class activities physically or virtually on a daily basis.

The Gainesville City School Board believes that students should arrive at school on time and be in class on time each day. In order to foster regular attendance, the Gainesville City School System shall comply with all requirements of state law, State Board of Education rule, and the Student Attendance Protocol developed by Gainesville City Schools’ Student Attendance Protocol Committee. The Board strongly believes that every day at school is important and that no student should be absent except for extraordinary reasons and encourages students and their parents to assume responsibility for being punctual and regular in attendance.

Georgia law, O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690.1, states that a person who fails to send a child to school may be charged with a misdemeanor. For each violation of the statute, a court may subject this person to a fine not less than $25.00 and not greater than $100.00, imprisonment not to exceed thirty (30) days, community service, or any combination of such penalties. Each day's absence after the school notifies the person of five unexcused days of absence shall be considered a separate offense of the statute.

For the purposes of this Policy, a child between his/her sixth and sixteenth birthdays shall be considered truant if the child has more than five days of unexcused absences in a school year. A truant student with more than ten days of unexcused absences within a school year may identified as a child in need of services in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 15-11- 380.

School Attendance Compulsory Education Law (O.C.G.A. 20-2-690.1) requires that every parent/guardian or other person who has control of any child between the ages of 6 and 16 shall enroll and send such child to school. All children enrolled for 20 calendar days or more in the public schools of this state prior to their seventh birthday shall become subject to the provisions of the compulsory school attendance law. State Board of Education policy defines the school year as 180 attendance days.

Full Day Attendance Students are expected to be in attendance for the full school day. Students who check-in late or check-out early should submit a written note from their parent/guardian explaining their absence. Disciplinary action may be taken against students not in attendance for the full school day for reasons that cannot be excused. 

Absence from School For a Portion of the School Day Individual students who have emergencies necessitating their absence from school for a portion of the school day must have been present for one-half of the instructional day in order to be counted present. When there is cause necessitating an individual student to be excused from school for a portion of the school day, the student shall be released from school only to his/her parent(s), to a person properly identified to the school administration, or upon request by letter or telephone from the parent(s).

Student Absences

Whenever students are absent, for any reason, their parent/guardian must send a signed and dated written explanation of the absence to their child’s teacher no later than the Third Day following the students return to school after their absence. An automated phone call will be made to parents/guardians when their child is absent from class.

It is the policy of the Board to excuse students from school for the following reasons: Written justification for any absence must be submitted by the student.

Excused absences include the following:

• Personal illness

• Death or illness in the immediate family

• Religious holidays

• Instance where attendance by the student would be hazardous

• When mandated by government agency

• One day to register to vote

• Pre-arranged absence approved by an administrator

• Visiting with a U.S. military parent prior to or on leave from overseas deployment (limited to 5 days per school year)

• Students are to be counted present when serving as page for the General Assembly

• Students in foster care are to be counted present when attending court proceedings related to their foster care

Awarding Units/Transferring Credits - JBC(4) - revised on 2-2-2022

The Board of Education (“Board”) shall fully comply with the requirements of Georgia Board of Education Rule 160-5-1-.15 Awarding Units of Credit and Acceptance of Transfer Credit and/or Grades and the State Department of Education’s Guidelines for Awarding Units of Credit. All terms used in this policy are as defined in the Rule and its Guidelines. 

The requirements of this policy shall apply to all students regardless of the date they first entered the ninth grade.

Awarding Units of Credit

1. Students shall be awarded credit only for courses that include concepts and skills based on the state-adopted curriculum for grades 9-12 approved by the State Board of Education (SBOE) in accordance with the provisions for each program or course described in the State Board Rule(s) and State Department Guidelines.
    

2. The Board shall award units of credit for middle school courses that are based on the state-adopted curriculum for grades 9-12.
    

3. The superintendent or designee is authorized to establish procedures whereby a student may earn course credit by demonstrating subject area competency without regard to the amount of instructional time the student spends in the course. Students and parents shall be advised of such opportunities through the student handbook, presentations at parent and family workshops, and/or advisement material.
    

4. An eligible student may earn course credit by “testing-out,” which means scoring at proficient or higher on a state assessment prior to taking the course. Students attempting to test-out must have parent permission. Course credit earned through testing-out shall be reported in the same way as credit earned through course completion. A student’s numerical grade for a course in which the student tests out shall be determined by converting the student’s scale score to a prorated numerical score using the state conversion scale for that subject. Student eligibility criteria for earning credit by “testing- out” and information regarding grade assignment and collection of any associated fees shall be included in the student handbook, presentations at parent and family workshops, and/or advisement materials.

Accepting Transfer Credit and Grades

1. The Board will accept student course credit earned in an accredited school, which must have been accredited or hold provisional status at the time the credit was earned.
    

2. The Board will not substitute courses and exempt students from the required secondary minimum core curriculum unless the student transferred from an accredited secondary school or the courses presented for credit include concepts and skills based on the state-adopted curriculum for grades 9-12 approved by the SBOE.
    

3. Transfer credit shall be validated for courses taken at non-accredited schools, home study programs, and non-traditional educational centers.
    

1. Elementary and middle school students transferring from home study programs, non-accredited schools or non-traditional educational centers will be placed at the appropriate grade level in a probationary placement based on the student’s records in prior schools or programs and satisfactory performance in a district school for a nine weeks and/or the end of the grading period OR  based on satisfactory performance on standardized or locally developed tests focusing on grade level or subject are
    

2.  High school students transferring from home study programs, non-accredited schools or non-traditional educational centers will be placed in the appropriate grade level based on the number of units earned toward graduation. Units of credit shall be granted for courses that meet state-adopted curriculum standards for grades 9-12; OR based on satisfactory performance on standardized or locally developed tests focusing on subject area. High school transfer students must take any state-mandated assessments.
    

2. For student transcript purposes, grades for courses taken by transferring students will be accepted as recorded on the transcript from the issuing school or program. Letter grades for high school transfer students will be converted to numerical grades using either a conversion scale provided by the prior school or, if a scale is not available, using a conversion formula established by the Superintendent or designee. Transferred course titles, if necessary, will be changed to appropriate course titles in the list of state funded courses.
    

3. The Superintendent or designee(s) will be responsible for having a process in place for:

1.  

2. Determining whether transfer courses meet the state-adopted curriculum;
    

3. Placing transfer students at the appropriate level and granting units of credit for high school students based on this policy;

4.  Administering any required state assessment in accordance with state assessment guidelines and the state rule concerning transfer credit; and

5. Ensuring that grades are placed on student transcripts.

Procedures for Awarding Units of Credit for Subject Area Competency

The Board shall award units of credit for middle school courses that are based on the state-adopted curriculum.

• If a passing grade is earned, middle school students who take high school level courses will accept the credit 

• The grades earned in middle school WILL NOT be included in a student’s GPA for Hope Scholarship, in accordance with GSFC guidelines

• The grades earned in middle school WILL NOT be included in the local GPA used for class ranking

Students and parents shall be advised of “test-out” opportunities through the student handbook, advisement materials, parent workshops, the Gainesville City Schools website, and through direct contact with the counselor.

• Upon initial request, the counselor will confirm that students have not been previously enrolled in the course and have met the grade requirement in the previous course.

• Provided the above criteria have been met, the counselor will obtain a teacher recommendation. 

• The final step is for the counselor to obtain parent permission and communicate with the District Testing Coordinator to register the student for the test administration. A copy of the registration form will be kept on file at the District level.
   

Procedures for Accepting Transfer Credit and Grades

Elementary and middle school students transferring from home study programs, non-accredited schools or non-traditional educational centers will be placed at the appropriate grade level in a probationary placement for one 9-week grading period. Student placement may also be based on satisfactory performance on standardized or locally developed tests focusing on grade level or subject area.

• Local tests and pre/post tests may be utilized in order to provide additional information concerning student placement. 

• Upon examination of test results and classroom performance, the final placement decision rests with the Principal and/or placement committee.

High school students transferring from home study programs, non-accredited schools or non-traditional educational centers will be placed in the appropriate grade level based on the number of units earned toward graduation. Units of credit shall be granted for courses that meet the state-adopted curriculum standards or based on satisfactory performance on standardized and locally developed tests. High school transfer students must take any state-mandated assessments.

• Transcripts will be analyzed at the School (United States transcripts) and/or District (International transcripts) level by trained personnel to determine whether courses meet state-adopted curriculum standards for grades 9-12.

• If core credit will be issued for a course, the appropriate test will be administered. Students are required to earn a score of 70% or higher in order to receive core credit. Those scoring below this threshold should be enrolled in the course.

• If elective credit will be issued for a course, an appropriate elective from the list of state funded courses will be selected.

• International students who may have limited English skills and would be unable to demonstrate proficiency on assessments to be administered to receive core credit will initially receive an elective credit. However, the school has the option to convert the elective credit to a core credit at a later date if it is determined that a lack of English skills previously prohibited the student from demonstrating proficiency. In order to make the conversion, the appropriate test should be administered prior to placement in the course for core credit. Students are required to earn a score of 70% or higher in order to receive core credit. Those scoring below this threshold should be enrolled in the course and retain the initial elective credit. 

• Transferred courses will be recorded using the following course numbering protocols:

• In state public school credit – course number from transferring school or internal course number

• Out of state public school credit – xx.xxxx6xx

• In state and out of state private school credit – xx.xxxx7xx

• Out f USA credit – xx.xxxx8xx

• Home school credit – xx.xxxx9xx

• Teacher identification for transferred courses will be recorded using the following SSN protocols: 

• In state school – 999999999 

• Out of state school – 888888888

Transferred courses will be changed to the appropriate course title in the list of state funded courses, as needed. Letter grades will be converted to numerical grades using either a conversion scale provided by the prior school or, if a scale is not available, using the following conversion formula:

Procedures for Awarding Units of Credit for Dual Enrollment Courses

The Board shall award units of credit to students for high school courses taken through postsecondary institutions as described in the State Board of Education Rule 160-4-2-.34 Dual Enrollment.

• For students who participate in approved dual enrollment credit programs, the grades and amount of credit for each approved course shall be placed on high school transcripts and shall be used in computing grade point averages for both class ranking and HOPE eligibility. 

• Dual enrollment courses will be given an additional .5 weighting for the purpose of calculating GPA for both class ranking and HOPE eligibility. 

• For each successfully completed, approved dual enrollment credit course, secondary credit shall be awarded toward state and local high school graduation requirements based on the credit conversions below, regardless of the course location or school day class schedule followed. Per approval from the State Board of Education in January 2010, the following new credit conversions must be used and followed without local adjustments or requirements:

• Postsecondary semester hour credit shall be converted to high school unit credit as follows: 1 to 2 semester hours = .5 unit; 3 to 5 semester hours = 1 unit

• Postsecondary quarter hour credit shall be converted to high school unit credit as follows: 1 to 3 quarter hour credits = .5 unit; 4 to 8 quarter hour credits = 1 unit.

• Students are limited to 4 units of dual credit per semester and 8 units per year regardless of the combination of dual or regular classes scheduled. One-hour labs that are part of a class are not counted for dual credit at the high school level, just the college

Transportation service for students is a privilege, not a right. Students will be allowed to ride Gainesville City Schools’ buses as long as they remain a student in good standing for that purpose. A student in good standing is one who follows the rules. Students are responsible for maintaining good behavior while riding the school bus. Parents should remind their children to follow all the rules listed below and to be a person of responsible character while riding to and from school, on field trips, or any other school-sponsored trip. The school bus is considered school property; therefore, all rules that apply to school building also apply to school buses.

1. Students are to be at their designated stop in the morning at least five minutes before the bus is to arrive. 

2. Students are expected to get off at their designated stop unless they have a note from a parent or legal Guardian stating that they have permission to exit at a different stop. 

3. Parents must send a note to the school to make changes in afternoon bus transportation for their child. 

4. BUS BOARDING PASSES – Students must have a bus boarding pass that is completed by the school in order to ride a bus other than their normal bus. Students must hand the bus boarding pass to the bus driver in order to ride a bus that is not their normal bus. 

5. Students shall be permitted to use electronic devices during the operation of a school bus, including but not limited to cellular phones, MP3 players, and iPods, provided that the safety of staff members and other bus riders is not jeopardized. 6. No excessive noise or rowdy behavior is permissible on the bus. Only normal conversation is allowed except when at railroad crossing, red lights, and stop signs. At these times there shall be no talking. 

6. A student shall immediately take his/her seat upon entering the bus and remain seated in that seat until the bus stops and it is time to get off. 

7. Head, hands and feet shall be kept inside the bus at all times. 

8. Throwing any article inside the bus or at the bus is strictly prohibited. 

9. No fighting is allowed on the bus. 

10. Students must wait for the bus in an orderly manner a safe distance off the roadway. The bus shall come to a complete stop before students move toward the bus. Students must not rush or walk between buses when loading or unloading. 

11. Lighters, matches, or other igniting devices, as well as smoking on the bus are strictly prohibited. 

12. Eating or drinking on the bus will not be allowed. 

13. Students will not use profane or foul language at any time. 

14. Students shall not deface or damage the bus (i.e., writing or painting inside or outside the bus). Any guilty of such acts will pay the cost of repairs. 

15. Students will not open the emergency door except for emergencies when instructed by the bus driver to do so. 

16. Students who must cross the road after being discharged from the school bus must cross in front of the stopped school bus. 

17. Students are strictly prohibited from acting or talking disrespectfully in any way to the bus driver. 

18. Misconduct on buses near the end of the school year that cannot be dealt with during the remainder of the school year will carry over to the beginning of the school year. 

19. For the safety and protection of riders and drivers, buses may be equipped with video cameras and audio capabilities. These tapes may be used for identifying behavioral problems. These tapes are held for one school day only and then are taped over. Videotapes will be reviewed only by district staff. 

 Bus Code of Conduct Discipline:

The efficient and safe transportation of Gainesville City School’s most precious cargo is the primary responsibility of The Board of Education, Superintendent, school administrators, staff, and the Transportation Department. We commit to take every precaution to see that students are transported safely to and from school.  Our school buses are an extension of the classroom.  The Code of Conduct and discipline procedures that apply at the school also apply while any vehicle provided by Gainesville City Schools is transporting students. 

Positive Behavioral Interventions System (PBIS):

Positive behavior on the bus is the expectation.  PBIS will be used to teach specific behaviors. Just as specific behaviors are identified on campus, it is necessary to be intentional about behaviors desired on the bus. Applying school-wide expectations to the bus can produce benefits for the entire school culture. Students arrive at school exhibiting positive behavior, which can create a positive start to their day. Positive behaviors can build throughout the day and continue on the ride home. In addition, it is important that students abide by the bus discipline policies as outlined herein.

Communication Between Transportation Department and Schools: 

Students feel safe when surrounded by a positive environment.  This environment on the bus includes showing respect and using respectful language, using appropriate tone of voice, staying seated, and keeping items secure.  Major offenses (such as violence, abusive language, etc.) will not be tolerated.   For continuous negative behaviors on the bus, the progressive student discipline process will be used as follows.  Serious offenses may result in long-term bus suspension, regardless of a student's previous behavior. 

O.C.G.A. 20-2-765:

Notification of parent or guardian of chronic disciplinary problem student; observance of child by parent or guardian; attendance of conference with principal or teacher or both

Any time a teacher, staff member (including Transportation Coordinators), or principal identifies a student as a chronic disciplinary problem student, the principal shall notify by telephone call and by either certified mail or statutory overnight delivery with return receipt requested or first-class mail the student's parent or guardian of the disciplinary problem, and request at least one parent or guardian to attend a conference with the principal/administrative designee and Transportation coordinator (if deemed necessary) to devise a behavioral correction plan.

Minor Offenses 

Minor offenses include but are not limited to:  talking too loudly; Failure to stay seated; Littering on the bus; Tampering with the possessions of other passengers; Annoying or aggravating passengers. 

 1. The bus driver will report (in written form) misconduct occurring on the school bus to the Transportation Coordinator. If a student shares information pertaining to student misconduct on the bus with a teacher or other staff member, the school will notify the transportation coordinator for minor offense action.

 2. All levels of discipline will be reported on a school bus conduct report form and turned into Transportation Coordinator for action. All minor offenses will be entered into the Educator’s Handbook reporting system by the Transportation Coordinator. The Transportation Coordinator will notify parents about repeated minor offenses to inform them that the next offense will be a major offense. A major referral will be handled by the school administrator.

3. The Transportation office will retain copies of the signed minor offense report and forward copies to the parents and school.

Major Offenses:

Major offenses that endanger the safety of the driver or students includes but not limited to: Refusal to remain in seats;  Throwing objects; spitting or spitballs;  Distracting the driver;  Refusal to obey driver; Bullying Passengers  Use of profanity  Damage to the bus interior/exterior Fighting, including pushing and/or wrestling; Possession of knives or dangerous objects (including airsoft guns); Possession of a Firearm; Possession and/or use of tobacco, alcohol, drugs or controlled substances.

1. The bus driver will report (in written form) misconduct occurring on the school bus to the Transportation Coordinator. The Transportation Coordinator will notify the school administrator of the major offense and assist the administrator in investigating the incident. All major offenses will result in a referral from the school.  

2. Regardless of type of incident or location (bus, school, or school property), all major bus referrals will follow the same GCSS tiered discipline matrix. 

GRADES K-5 MAJOR OFFENSE LEVELS  

For continuous disruptive behaviors on the bus, the student discipline process is as follows:

• FIRST OFFENSE: The administrator shall take proper disciplinary action, which may include suspension from riding the bus, based on the nature or severity of the offense.

• SECOND OFFENSE: The administrator shall suspend the student from riding the bus for at least five (5) school days.

• THIRD OFFENSE: The administrator shall suspend the student from riding the bus for at least ten (10) school days.

• FOURTH OFFENSE: The administrator shall suspend the student from riding the bus for at least twenty (20) school days.

• FIFTH OFFENSE: The administrator shall suspend the student from riding the bus for the remainder of the semester up to the rest of the year. 

GRADES 6-12 MAJOR OFFENSE LEVELS

For disruptive behaviors on the bus, the student discipline process is as follows:

• FIRST OFFENSE: The administrator shall take proper disciplinary action, which may include suspension up to five (5) days from riding the bus, based on the nature or severity of the offense.

• SECOND OFFENSE: The administrator shall suspend the student from riding the bus for at least ten (10) school days.

• THIRD OFFENSE: The administrator shall suspend the student from riding the bus for at least twenty (20) school days.

• FOURTH OFFENSE: The administrator shall suspend the student from riding the bus for the remainder of the semester up to the rest of the year. 

Any major incidents that receive consequences that are not completed during the current school year shall carry over into the next school year until completed. 

ADDITIONAL BUS NOTES

• Parents/guardians are responsible for providing transportation for students suspended from riding the bus. 

• Bus drivers are in complete charge at all times and are authorized to assign seats. 

• Conversation with the driver or behavior distracting the driver by students during loading and unloading of buses should be avoided. During this critical time complete concentration by the driver is required. 

• Parents/guardians with concerns or complaints that need to be addressed by the bus driver should contact the school as first contact. Under no circumstances should parents distract the driver by boarding the bus or complaining at the bus stop. Student safety must be top priority during this time. 

• Any action or disturbance that endangers the well-being of any student will be handled in accordance with the student discipline section of this handbook. 

• It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly disrupt or interfere with the operation of any public school, public school bus, or public school bus stop as designated by local school boards of education. Any person violating this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature (OCGA 20-2-1181)

All employees of the Gainesville City School System, as well as persons who attend to a child pursuant to their duties as a volunteer for the school system, who have reason or cause to believe that suspected child abuse has occurred shall notify the principal or the school system’s designee, who shall report such abuse immediately, but in no case later than 24 hours from the time there is reasonable cause to believe that suspected child abuse has occurred, in accordance with Georgia law and the protocol for handling child abuse cases for Hall County, Georgia.

Under no circumstances shall the principal or designee to whom a report of child abuse has been made exercise any control, restraint, modification or make any other change to the information provided by a mandated reporter, although the reporter may be consulted prior to the making of a report and may provide any additional, relevant and necessary information when making the report.

A chronic disciplinary problem student is a student who exhibits a pattern of behavioral characteristics which interfere with the learning process of students around him or her and which are likely to recur. Georgia law mandates that any time a teacher or principal identifies a student as a chronic disciplinary problem student, the principal shall notify by telephone call and by mail the student’s parent/guardian of the disciplinary problem, invite the parent/guardian to observe the student in a classroom situation, and request at least one parent/guardian to attend a conference to devise a disciplinary and behavioral correction plan. Georgia law also states that before any chronic disciplinary problem student is permitted to return to school from a suspension or expulsion, the school shall request by telephone call and by mail, at least one parent/guardian to schedule and attend a conference to devise a disciplinary and behavioral correction plan. The law allows a local board of education to petition the juvenile court to require a parent/guardian to attend a school conference. If the court finds that the parent /guardian has willfully and unreasonably failed to attend a conference requested by the principal pursuant to the laws cited above, the court may order the parent/guardian to participate in such programs or such treatment as the court deems appropriate to improve the student’s behavior, or both. After notice and opportunity for hearing, the court may impose a fine, not to exceed $500.00, on a parent/guardian who willfully disobeys an order of the court under this law.

It is the policy of the Gainesville City Board of Education that each school within this school district shall develop and implement age-appropriate student codes of conduct designed to improve the student learning environment and which will comply with state law and State Board of Education Rule 160-4-8-.15.  Each code of conduct shall include the following:

1. Standards for student behavior designed to create the expectation that students will behave themselves in such a way so as to facilitate a learning environment for themselves and other students.  The standards should be designed also to encourage students to respect each other and school district employees, to motivate students to obey student behavior policies adopted by this board and to obey student behavior rules established at each school within this school district

2. Student support processes designed to consider, as appropriate in light of the severity of the behavioral problem, support services available at each school, the school system and other public entities or community organizations which may assist students to address behavioral problems;

3. Progressive discipline processes designed to create the expectation that the degree of discipline imposed by each school will be in proportion to the severity of the behavior of a particular student, the previous discipline history of the student and other relevant factors, while ensuring that each student receives the due process mandated by federal and state law;

4. Parental involvement processes designed to enable parents, guardians, teachers and school administrators to work together to improve and enhance student behavior and academic performance.  The process should enable parents, guardians and school employees to communicate freely their concerns about student behaviors which detract from the learning environment.

5. All other specific requirements as set forth in any existing State Board of Education Rule or in Georgia law.

Each school shall involve parents in developing and updating student codes of conduct.  Each code shall require disciplinary action for each infraction of the code.  All student codes of conduct shall be submitted to the board for approval.

The student code of conduct shall be distributed to each student and the student’s parents or guardians during the first week of school and upon enrollment of each new student.  The parents shall be requested to sign an acknowledgment of the receipt of the code of conduct and return promptly the acknowledgment to the school. 

TEACHER REPORTING REQUIREMENT

It is the policy of the Board of Education that the superintendent shall fully support the authority of principals and teachers to remove a student from the classroom pursuant to Georgia law as cited in Section 20-2-738 and Section 20-2-751.5(d). 

A teacher shall have the authority, consistent with board policy, to manage his or her classroom, discipline students, and refer a student to the principal or his designee to maintain discipline in the classroom.  Any teacher who has knowledge that a student has exhibited behavior which violates the student code of conduct and repeatedly or substantially interferes with the teachers ability to communicate effectively with the students in his/her class or with the ability of such student's classmates to learn shall file a report of such behavior with the principal or his designee.  The principal and teacher shall thereafter follow the procedures set forth in Georgia law, specifically O.C.G.A. § 20-2-737-738.

PBIS and the Student Code of Conduct

Gainesville City School System utilizes a progressive discipline approach when dealing with student behaviors. The Positive Behavioral Intervention Support (PBIS) framework is implemented at all Gainesville City school buildings. Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is an evidence-based framework that helps schools design effective environments and supports that, when implemented with fidelity, increase teaching and learning opportunities for all students.

A student code of conduct is intended to teach students that there are consequences for violating behavior norms while under the supervision of educators. A student code of conduct, among other things, publishes a list of unacceptable student behaviors that interfere with the learning environment and the successful operation of the school day. A corresponding and progressive list of possible consequences is defined within a student code of conduct with the intent to promote a safe learning environment.

Major offenses including, but not limited to, drug and weapon offenses can lead to schools being named as an Unsafe School according to the provisions of State Board of Education Rule 160-4-8-.16 Unsafe School Choice Option.

Parents and police will be notified in every instance where the law is violated.

Minor acts of misconduct are those that interfere with orderly school procedures, school functions, extracurricular programs, approved transportation, or the student’s learning process. Students may be disciplined by the professional staff member involved or may be referred directly to the administration.

Penalties for minor acts of misconduct include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Warning  

• Conference with student

• Alternative seating

• Loss of free-choice activity  

• Time out in classroom

• Time out in another classroom  

• Isolation during lunch  

• Conference with parent/guardian, teacher and/or administrator  

• Practice of desired behavior  

• Development of an action plan or contract

• Participation in the cleaning/repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment

• Any other disciplinary technique that positively promotes the student Code of Conduct and desired character trait(s)

Intermediate acts of misconduct require administrative intervention. These acts include, but are not limited to, repeated, unrelated acts of minor misconduct and misbehaviors directed against persons or property, but which do not seriously endanger the health, safety or well-being of others. Consideration of necessary behavior support services should be given if not already provided. Penalties for intermediate acts of misconduct include but are not limited to the following:

• Student participation in conference with parent/guardian, teacher, and/or administrator

• Restriction from school programs or other activities  

• Up to three days out-of-school suspension  

• Participation in the cleaning/repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment  

• Financial restitution for the repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment  

• Development of an action plan or contract  

• Change in Academic Setting or in school suspension

• Any other disciplinary technique that positively promotes the student code of conduct and desired character trait(s)

Serious acts of misconduct require administrative intervention and may require use of outside agencies and/or law enforcement. These offenses include, but are not limited to, repeated misbehavior that is similar in nature, serious disruptions of the school environment, threats to health, safety, or well-being of others, or property. Because serious acts of misconduct may result in placement in a separate alternative educational program or expulsion, students have benefit of due process, such as the Disciplinary Tribunal, the procedural safeguards and other requirements identified in the 1997 Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the Georgia Board of Education’s Special Education Rules. Penalties for serious acts of misconduct include, but are not limited to, the following:  

• Restriction from school programs and/or other activities

• Out-of-school suspension for up to ten days  

• Participation in the cleaning/repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment

• Financial restitution for the repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment  

• Change in Academic Setting

• Placement in a separate alternative educational program  

• Expulsion

A student code of conduct is intended to teach students that there are consequences for violating behavior norms while under the supervision of educators. A student code of conduct, among other things, publishes a list of unacceptable student behaviors that interfere with the learning environment and the successful operation of the school day. A corresponding and progressive list of possible consequences is defined within a student code of conduct with the intent to promote a safe learning environment. 

Major offenses including, but not limited to, drug and weapon offenses can lead to schools being named as an Unsafe School according to the provisions of State Board of Education Rule 160-4-8-.16 Unsafe School Choice Option.

Parents and police will be notified in every instance where the law is violated.

We, the Gainesville City District family, aim high to create a warm and inviting environment.  We want every reflection of our brand to be consistent with our tradition of excellence.  As a member of this family, your appearance is a reflection of the GCSS brand and how we show up collectively is important to our community.  At the same time, we want to build a district where individuality, empowerment, and inclusion are nurtured. Our dress code is generally based on what we like to think of as “school appropriate.”  All clothing must fit modestly and provide appropriate coverage and length.  Care must be taken to avoid distractions caused by tattoos, piercings, and unnatural hair colors and styles.

As One Gainesville, we believe that neat, clean and appropriate student dress and grooming can contribute to a positive learning environment, which is free of distractions and a loss of instructional time. The Principal reserves the right to dismiss any student from school whose personal appearance is disruptive to the educational process and orderly operation of the school, if there is not compliance.

At GMS West, all students are expected to place cell phones out of sight without sounds. Students should not use cell phones during the school day. 

Use of personal electronic devices and other electronic media during the regular school day must be in support of and consistent with the vision, mission, and goals established by the Gainesville City Board of Education. All personal electronic devices on Board property or used during a school sponsored activity are subject to the Technology Resources Acceptable Use Policy IFBG.

Students may be permitted to use their personal electronic devices for instructional purposes and to access the District provided network/internet. Students must follow all directions given by school personnel in regards to using personal devices.

Students shall be personally and solely responsible for the maintenance, support, and security of their personal electronic device. All personal laptops are required to have updated virus protection and the latest security patches to the operating system and browser prior to connecting to the network. Neither the district nor staff shall assume responsibility or liability for the theft, loss, or damage to personal devices, nor is responsibility for the unauthorized use of any device assumed.

While on Board property, students are not permitted to use their own personal Wi-Fi, data plans or other types of Internet access provided by Internet service providers/carriers that is not provided by the Board of Education. All Internet access will be filtered.

No student shall photograph, videotape, record, or reproduce, via any audio or video means, another student or staff member on Board property without the expressed prior permission of a teacher or administrator. Students shall not disrupt instruction with ringtones, music, or sound effects.

No student shall have a personal electronic device in their possession during district-wide assessments or state testing. Personal devices must be turned off completely (not simply on silent or vibrate mode) and turned into a teacher or testing proctor.

 Electronic resources provided by the district may be limited. When demand for these resources exceeds available capacity, priorities for their use will be established and enforced. Authorized staff members may set and change the priorities for these resources. The highest priority for use district electronic resources will include uses that support the educational and business mission of the school system, purchased services, and online testing.

Students shall be permitted to use electronic devices during the operation of a school bus, including but not limited to cellular phones, MP3 players, and iPods, provided that the safety of staff members and other bus riders is not jeopardized.

School staff may confiscate personal electronic devices and school administrators may search the device if inappropriate activities are suspected.

Students who do not comply with this regulation or any supporting directives related to the use of personal electronic devices will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. The school district reserves the right to change or deny the use of personal electronic devices of students who do not comply with procedures.

Teachers will respond to parent/guardian email correspondence during planning times and at the end of the school day within 24 hours. During instructional times, teachers will not be able to read or respond to email.

The Gainesville City School System does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability or gender in employment decisions or educational programs and activities, including its athletic programs. Any student, employee, applicant for employment, parent or other individual who believes he or she has been subjected to harassment or discrimination by other students or employees of the school district based upon any of the factors previously listed should promptly report the same to the principal of the school or the appropriate coordinator as listed below, who will implement the board’s discriminatory complaints or harassment procedures. Students may also report harassment or discrimination to their school counselor.

Title VI, Section 504, and Americans with Disabilities Act  - Dr. Jeremy Williams, Superintendent–  508 Oak Street Gainesville, GA 30501, 770-536-5275

Title IX  –Mrs. Priscilla Collins, Chief Professional Services Officer –508 Oak Street Gainesville, GA 30501, 770-536-5275

Students and employees will not be subjected to retaliation for reporting such harassment or discrimination. A copy of the discriminatory complaints procedure under Gainesville City Board of Education Policy JAA/GAAA (Equal Opportunity/Discriminatory Complaints Procedure) or under Policy IDFA (Gender Equity in Sports) is located on the Gainesville City Board of Education Web site at www.gcssk12.net

Any student, parent, or other person who believes he or she or any student has been discriminated against or harassed in violation of this policy must make a complaint in accordance with the procedures outlined below.

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

Complaints made to the School System regarding alleged discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color or national origin in violation of Title VI, on the basis of sex in violation of Title IX or on the basis of disability in violation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or the Americans With Disabilities Act will be processed in accordance with the following procedure:

1. Any student, employee, applicant for employment, parent or other person with a complaint alleging a violation as described above shall promptly notify, in writing or orally, either the principal for his/her school or the appropriate coordinator designated from time to time by the Board of Education or by the principal. If the complaint is oral, either the coordinator or school principal to whom the complaint is made shall promptly prepare a memorandum or written statement of the complaint as made to him or her by the complainant and shall have the complainant read and sign the memorandum or statement if it accurately reflects the complaint made. If the complaint is made to a school principal, he or she shall be responsible for notifying the appropriate coordinator of the complaint.

2. If the alleged offending individual is the coordinator or the principal, the complaint shall either be made by the complainant to the Superintendent or, if the complaint is initially made to the school principal, reported by the principal to the Superintendent. If the alleged offending individual is the Superintendent, the complaint shall be made to the designated coordinator, who shall, without further investigation, report the complaint to the Board chairperson.

3. The coordinator or his or her designee shall have fifteen work days to gather all information relevant to the complaint made, review the information, determine the facts relating to the complaint, review the action requested by the complainant, and attempt to resolve the complaint with the complainant and any other persons involved. The coordinator or designee shall prepare a written response to the complaint detailing any action to be taken in response to the complaint and the time frame in which such action will be taken and copies of this response shall be furnished to the complainant, the appropriate coordinator and the Superintendent or his or her designee.

4. If the complaint is not resolved at the conclusion of this fifteen-day period or if the complainant is not satisfied with the resolution of the complaint, the complainant shall have the right, within five work days of receiving a copy of the written response, to have the complaint referred to the Superintendent of Schools. If the alleged offending individual is the Superintendent, the complainant may have the complaint referred to the Board of Education, rather than the Superintendent.

5. The Superintendent shall have fifteen workdays to review the complaint and the response of the coordinator or designee and attempt to resolve the complaint. The Superintendent shall furnish to the complainant a written response setting forth either his or her approval of the action recommended by the coordinator or designee or the action to be taken by the system in response to the complaint in lieu of that recommended by the coordinator or designee and the time frame in which such action shall be taken.

6. This policy is not intended to deprive any student or parent of any right they may have to file a grievance pursuant to any other policy of the local Board of Education, or to contact the Office of Civil Rights or other appropriate state or federal agency with regard to any allegations that the School District has violated the statues described above. The school system shall be responsible for distributing and disseminating information relevant to this policy and procedure to students, applicants for employment and employees through appropriate procedures.

7. No reprisal shall occur as a result of reporting unlawful discrimination or harassment under this policy, and any attempt to retaliate against a complainant shall be disciplined as is appropriate.

The confidentiality of any individual making a complaint or report in accordance with this policy, to the extent it is reasonably possible, shall be protected, although the discovery of the truth and the elimination of unlawful harassment shall be the overriding consideration.

The following grading system shall be used in the Gainesville City Middle Schools.

Grading System for Grades 6-8: 

A – 90-100   | B – 80-89      | C – 70-79      | F – Below 70

It is the policy of the Gainesville Board of Education to prohibit any act of harassment of students by other students or employees based upon race, color, national origin, sex, or disability at all times and during all occasions while at school, in the workplace or at any school event or activity. Any such act by a student or employee shall result in prompt and appropriate discipline, including the possible termination of employment or suspension or expulsion of the student.  Sexual harassment may include conduct or speech which entails unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, taunts, threats, comments of a vulgar or demeaning nature, demands or physical contact which creates a hostile environment. There may be other speech or conduct which employees or students experience as inappropriate or illegal harassment which should also be reported; harassment can take many forms and it is not possible to itemize every aspect of the harassment forbidden by this policy.
Any student, parent, employee, or other individual believes that a student has been subjected to harassment or discrimination by other students or employees of the School District as prohibited by this policy should promptly report the same directly to a principal of their school or to the appropriate coordinator designated in policy JAA, who will implement the board's discriminatory complaints procedures as specified in that policy.  Students may also report harassment or discrimination to their school counselor or any administrator. Students and employees will not be subjected to retaliation for reporting such harassment or discrimination. If at any point in the investigation of reported sexual harassment of a student, the coordinator or designee determines that the reported harassment of a student should more properly be termed abuse, the reported incident or situation shall be referred pursuant to the established protocol for child abuse investigation.  
It is the duty of all employees to promptly report harassment forbidden by this policy. All supervisors will instruct their subordinates as to the content of this policy and, through appropriate professional learning activities, enlighten employees as to the varied forms or expression of prohibited harassment. The principals of all schools shall ensure that students and parents are informed through student handbooks and verbally that such harassment is strictly forbidden, how it is to be reported and the consequences for violating this policy.

Hospital/Homebound (HHB) services are designed to provide continuity of educational services between the classroom and home or hospital for students in Georgia public schools whose medical needs, either physical or psychiatric, do not allow them to attend school for a limited period of time. HHB instruction may be used to supplement the classroom program for students with health impairments whose conditions may interfere with regular school attendance (e.g., students receiving dialysis or radiation/chemotherapy or students with other serious health conditions). Students must be enrolled in a public school in Georgia in order to receive HHB services.

HHB services are not intended to supplant regular school services and are by design temporary. The student must anticipate being absent from school for a minimum of ten consecutive or intermittent school days due to a medical or psychiatric condition. The student’s inability to attend school for medical or psychiatric reasons must be certified by the licensed physician or licensed psychiatrist who is currently treating the student for the diagnosis presented.

For more information, contact school counselor.

The Gainesville City School System is pleased to provide our students with electronic resources for the purpose of supporting the school system and its educational mission. To gain access to the Internet, all students under the age of 18 must obtain parental permission by signing and returning an Acceptable Use form to the school. The policy establishes the boundaries of “acceptable use” of these limited electronic resources, including computers, networks, email and other electronic information and services. Authorized users of these electronic resources assume personal responsibility for their appropriate use and agree to comply with this policy, other related school policies, and state and federal laws and regulations. The Policy on Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources applies to all users of the school system’s network or equipment.

Interpreters are available for Spanish speaking parents. Additionally, all communication from school is sent in English and Spanish.

Schools have parent centers with information and materials for parents to become full partners in the education of their children.  In situations where parents are unable to come to the Parent Center, staff is available to bring materials into the home. You can ask about Parent Center hours of operation by contacting your child’s principal.

The Gainesville City Board of Education endorses the concept that a student's success in school depends to a great extent upon the cooperation between home and school. The Board believes its primary function is to provide students a quality educational opportunity. It is the responsibility of the school, home, community and the individual learner to take full advantage of that educational opportunity. Although the Gainesville City Board of Education strongly believes that students should continue to advance to the next grade level annually, promotion is based primarily on student achievement and is not an automatic process. It is recognized that under certain circumstances retention or placement may be required for some students. 

1. Definitions consistent with those contained in State Board Rule 160-4-2.11 Promotion, Placement and Retention.

2. Students shall be tested in accordance with requirements specified in State Board Rule 160-3-1-.07 Testing Programs-Student Assessment.

3. The decision to retain a student in grade K, 1, 2, 4, 6, or 7 (and for students in grades 3, 5, and 8 in years when reliance on state-adopted assessments has been waived) shall be made by a school level committee appointed by the principal and shall be based on the student's achievement with consideration of state-mandated assessments, attendance, ability, age, motivation and development. Parents will be invited for a conference regarding the decision to retain their student.

4. The parent/guardian or the teacher(s) may appeal the decision to retain a student. A Placement Committee, comprised of the parent or guardian, the teacher(s), and the principal or designee, will hear appeals. The Placement Committee will review the overall academic achievement of the student in light of the performance on standardized assessments and/or classroom measures. The decision to place students in the next grade in response to an appeal must be made unanimously by the Placement Committee.

Gainesville City Schools became a Special Provision II district SY 2012. Currently all students eat at no cost for breakfast and lunch due to our Special Provision II status.

For students who bring their lunch, milk may be purchased.  Adults and visitors may purchase meals from the cafeteria. 
Contact School Nutrition Director Penny Fowler at penny.fowler@gcssk12.net or 770-532-5481 for additional information.

Meal Charges: The School Nutrition Department is required to have a charge policy. No student or Adult charges will be allowed at any school site.  

Adult Meals: All adult and guest meals are to be paid by the individual in advance or at the time the meal is selected. Adults are not allowed to charge their meal or any portion thereof. Adult meals or food items brought from home requiring refrigeration cannot be stored in the Food and Nutrition Services refrigerated equipment. Portion sizes for adults must not exceed portions required for high school students. Adults wishing to purchase larger portions may choose to buy two meals or pay an a la carte price for an additional entree. Beverages other than milk may incur an additional cost set by the School Nutrition Program (SNP).  

Returned Checks: After the food and Nutrition Department has received two (2) checks written to Gainesville City School Nutrition for payment of meals, and they are returned by the financial institution due to insufficient funds, stop payment, or closed accounts; all purchases made through the School Nutrition Program thereafter will be on a cash only basis.

Disruption of Public Schools (O.C.G.A. 20-2-1181)
It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly disrupt or interfere with the operation of any public school, public school bus, or public school bus stop as designated by local school boards of education. Any person violating this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.

Emergency Closings
In the event of inclement weather that would prevent the safe transportation of students to the schools or any other emergency situation that would affect the safety or well-being of students, or otherwise make it impractical or impossible for the normal operation of school, the superintendent, in collaboration with the board of education, will close the schools until said emergency condition no longer exists.

In the case of sudden change of weather conditions, the safety of students shall be the number one priority. Decisions concerning the early or late dismissal of students will be determined by the severity of the weather conditions and surrounding circumstances. If it is determined that students will be dismissed other than at the regular time of dismissal, all efforts will be made to contact the local media. The school system requests parents stay tuned to local radio and television stations, phone communication from the school/district, and electronic communication via the GCSS webpage during inclement weather.

Emergency Preparedness Plan/Emergency Drills
The Georgia Emergency Management Agency reviews and approves the school system’s comprehensive School Safety Plan and each school’s Emergency Preparedness Plan. These plans are coordinated with county, state, and federal emergency plans.

Fire/evacuation drills will be held on a monthly basis. In addition, drills for severe weather, lockdown of the school, and bus evacuation will be held at least once each year. Parents/guardians should remind their children that during emergency drill students must respond quietly and quickly and must follow the direction given by their teachers and administrators.

Failure to Leave Campus (O.C.G.A. 16-22-35)
Any person who fails to leave the premises when requested to leave any school property and/or returns to any school property after instructed by school staff or law enforcement to leave the property, they are considered trespassing and faces criminal prosecution of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.

Loitering on School Property (O.C.G.A. 20-2-1180)
It is unlawful for any person to remain within the school safety zone when that person does not have a legitimate cause or need to be present thereon. Students are not allowed to enter the premises of a school other than his/her school unless prior permission is received from an administrator of the school to be visited or unless the school is hosting a school-related function, such as an academic or athletic activity. A student may not enter or remain in any school building on weekends or after school hours without authorization or permission.

School Resource Officer (SRO)
The Gainesville City Board of Education and Gainesville Police Department employ school resource officers jointly. Their main purpose is to assist in providing a safe and secure learning environment for students, teachers and staff. They are an excellent resource for teachers, parents/guardians and students in dealing with individual problems or questions with respect to delinquency prevention and the law. Consistent with board policy and legal requirements, school resource officers also provide law enforcement support when needed.

School officials may search a student if there is reasonable suspicion that the student is in possession of an item that is illegal or against school rules. Student book-bags, school lockers, desks, and any other school property, is subject to inspection and search by school authorities at any time without further notice to students or parents. Students are required to cooperate if asked to open bookbags or lockers. Metal detectors and drug or weapon sniffing dogs may be utilized at school or at any school function, including activities that occur outside of school hours or off the school campus, at the discretion of administrators.

Any student or parent or guardian (“grievant”) may request an impartial hearing due to the school system’s actions or inactions regarding your child’s identification, evaluation, or educational placement under Section 504. Requests for an impartial hearing must be in writing to the school system’s Section 504 Coordinator; however, a grievant’s failure to request a hearing in writing does not alleviate the school system’s obligation to provide an impartial hearing if the grievant orally requests an impartial hearing through the school system’s Section 504 Coordinator.

The school system’s Section 504 Coordinator will assist the grievant in completing the written Request for Hearing. The Section 504 Coordinator may be contacted through the school system’s central office located at 508 Oak Street. Copies of the 504 Procedural Safeguards and Notice of Rights of Students and Parents Under Section 504 may be found at the system website or may be picked up at the central office or at any of the school offices.

The District complies with state requirements related to restraint and seclusion as set out in Georgia SBOE Rule 160-5-1-.35. Consistent with that rule, physical restraint will be used only in situations in which the student is in immediate danger to himself/herself or others and the student is not responsive to verbal directives or other less intensive de-escalation techniques. A parent or guardian will be notified each time their student has been restrained. The District maintains written policies and procedures governing the use of restraint.

The Board of Education, in order to implement the requirements of Official Code of Georgia 20-2-771.2, established a school health nurse program for the system.

The program will be staffed by licensed health care professionals and others whose duties will be set forth in job descriptions to be prepared by the Superintendent or designee, and may include offsite consultation with health professionals through appropriate protocols or contracts. 

STUDENT EMERGENCY/SAFETY INFORMATION:

Please make corrections, sign and return your student’s HEALTH FORM. This information must be updated throughout the year whenever a change is needed by the enrolling parent to enable us to contact you in case of an emergency. If any phone numbers or contact information changes, please notify the school immediately.

STUDENT ILLNESS/INJURY 

The main reasons for keeping your student home from school are he/she is too sick to participate comfortably at school or might spread a contagious disease to other students. If your student has been diagnosed with a contagious disease, please contact the clinic so other student’s parents and school staff may be alerted of the symptoms.

The school nurse administers medication only after a signed parent/physician form is completed and filed with the school nurse.

Reasons Your Child will be Sent Home from School

• Fever >100.4 degrees F
  Student should stay home until there is NO FEVER for 24 hours WITHOUT MEDICATION. Call your doctor if the fever is with pain, rash, weakness, vomiting or diarrhea. (*Based on CDC Recommendations)

• Vomiting or Diarrhea
  Student should stay home with ONE event of vomiting or watery diarrhea. Call your doctor if vomiting or diarrhea continues or with fever, rash, or weakness. Student needs to be without symptoms for 24 hours before returning to school.

• Drainage from a Wound, Rash or Eyes
  Student should stay home with drainage from a wound, rash, or eyes. Call your doctor for treatment, and to rule out the possibility that the student is contagious to others.

• Head Lice 
  Student should stay home until treatment is complete and student has no live lice.

• Scabies
  Contact the health department or your doctor for treatment for scabies. A note from the doctor stating that the student has been treated and may return to school is required.

• Unexplained Rash
  Student should stay home with an unexplained rash with or without fever. Call your doctor for treatment. Your student may not return to school until they have been fever-free and symptom-free for ONE FULL school day

When there is doubt in your mind about sending your student to school, consult your doctor. Your school nurse or principal may ask for a “Release to Return to School” from your doctor before returning to school. Please make sure that your student’s school knows how to reach you during the day.

Insurance is available for protection of the child in the event of an accident at school. Information about the insurance program is sent the first day of school. Contact the school office if you have not received an application. Claim forms can also be obtained from the school office.

Student Medication Administration

The Gainesville City School’s Medication Policy is available on the website e-Board under Policies and will be followed for all medications given at school.

• The parent or legal guardian must complete and sign the School Medication Authorization for ALL medications given at school. For prescription medications, a duly-licensed, Georgia physician must also complete and sign the School Medication Authorization available from your school nurse.

• A parent/legal guardian or other designated adult must bring all medications, accompanied by the School Medication Authorization to the school clinic unless special permission is given by the principal or school nurse.

• All over-the-counter and/or prescription medications must be in their original containers with unexpired dates and labeled in English. Prescription medications must be clearly labeled with the physician’s name, medication’s name, strength, dosage, date, time for administration, and dispensing pharmacy. Parent/Guardian must provide over-the-counter medications to the clinic.

If your student has a life-threatening condition (i.e. asthma, diabetes, or severe allergy), permission may be granted to carry the medication (such as inhaler, glucose tablet, epinephrine injector, etc.) on his or her person from the student’s physician and parent/guardian on the School Medication Authorization.

Passive Permission on SEL Surveys

The signature of a parent/guardian on this page also identifies your child as having your permission to participate in the Panorama Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Survey. The Panorama SEL survey is for 3rd through 12th-grade students. SEL is an important part of a well-rounded education, and investments in personalized SEL support students' social, emotional, and cognitive development, improving attendance, grades, test scores, graduation rates, college and career readiness, and overall well-being (Aspen Institute, 2019). 

It is the policy of Gainesville City Schools that all employees shall comply with the requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Pupil Protection Rights Amendment (PPRA).  The Superintendent shall implement procedures whereby every principal is directed to develop a means to notify, on an annual basis, students and parents, including non-English-speaking parents, of their rights under the FERPA and the PPRA, either by letter or through a student handbook distributed to each student in the school. 

FERPA affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records.  These rights are:

 (1) The right to inspect and review, within 45 days of a request, the education records of a student who is your child, or in the case of a student who is eighteen (18) or older, your own education records.  Parents or eligible students should submit to the Superintendent a written request identifying the record(s) they wish to inspect.  The Superintendent or designee will make arrangements for access and provide notice of such arrangements.

 (2) The right to request the amendment of the student's education records to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy or other rights.  To request the school district to amend a record, parents or eligible students should write the school principal, specify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights.  If the district decides not to amend the record, it will notify the parents or eligible students of the decision and inform them of their right to a hearing.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedure will be provided with the notification of the right to a hearing.

(3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information (PII) from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA and its implementing regulations authorize disclosure without consent.  One exception that permits disclosure without consent is to school officials with legitimate educational interest.  A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including school nurses and school resource officers); a members of the Board of Education acting as a collective group; a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a specific task (such as attorney, auditor, medical consultant, therapist, or online educational services provider); a contractor, consultant, volunteer, or other party to whom the school district has outsourced services, such as electronic data storage; or a parent or student serving on an official committee (such as a disciplinary or grievance committee) or assisting another school official in performing his/her tasks. The District allows school officials to access only student records in which they have a legitimate educational interest.  School officials remain under the district’s control with regard to the use and maintenance of PII, which may be used only for the purpose for which disclosure was made, and cannot be released to other parties without authorization.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an educational record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility. 

Upon request, the district discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.

 (4) FERPA requires the school district, with certain exceptions, to obtain written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from the student’s education records.  However, the district may disclose appropriate designated “directory information” without written consent, unless the parent or eligible student has advised the district to the contrary in accordance with district procedures.  The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the school to include this type of information from the student’s education records in certain school publications, such as the annual yearbook, graduation or sports activity programs, and honor roll or other recognition lists. 

The School District has designated the following information as directory information:

(a)      Student’s name

(b)      Student’s participation in official school activities and sports;

(c)      Weight and height of members of an athletic team;

(d)      Dates of attendance at schools within the district;

(e)      Honors and awards received during the time enrolled in district schools

(f)      Photograph; and

(g)      Grade level.

Unless you, as a parent/guardian or eligible student, request otherwise, this information may be disclosed to the public upon request.  In addition, two federal laws require school systems receiving federal financial assistance to provide military recruiters, upon request, with students’ names, addresses, and telephone numbers unless parents have advised the school system that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.  You have the right to refuse to allow all or any part of the above information to be designated as directory information and to refuse to allow it to be disclosed to the public upon request without your prior written consent.  If you wish to exercise this right, you must notify the principal of the school at which the student is enrolled in writing within 5 days after officially enrolling in school or within 5 days of the date of the release of this notice.

(5) You are also notified that from time to time students may be photographed, video -taped, or interviewed by the news media at school or some school activity or event; unless you, as a parent/guardian object in writing to the principal to your student being photographed, video- taped or interviewed. You must notify the principal of your objection by the date specified above.  The principal will take reasonable steps to control the media’s access to students.  However, your submission of a written objection does not constitute a guarantee that your student will not be interviewed in circumstances which are not within the knowledge or control of the principal.

(6) You have the right to file with the United States Department of Education a complaint concerning alleged failures by the school district to comply with the requirements of FERPA or the regulations promulgated there under.  The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202.

UNDER PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA)

PPRA affords parents and eligible students (18 or older or emancipated minors) certain rights regarding the conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams.  These include the right to:

Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED

1.    Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;

2.    Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;

3.    Sex behavior or attitudes;

4.    Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;

5.    Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;

6.    Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;

7.    Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or

8.    Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –

1.    Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;

2.    Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and

3.    Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

Inspect, upon request and before administration or use –

1.    Protected information surveys of students;

2.    Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and

3.    Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

Parents and eligible students will be notified at the beginning of the school year if the school district has identified the specific or approximate dates during the school year when any of the activities listed above are expected to be scheduled.  For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys.

The Board of Education has developed and adopted policies, in conjunction with parents, regarding these rights as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes.  The district will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes.  The district will also directly notify parents of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey.

The school is required by federal law to give this notice to parents. However, the school does not have scheduled any such activities as are described above.  If any such activities are initiated during the school year, parents will be notified accordingly and will be afforded all the rights described herein.

Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202.

A teacher may remove or refer to the principal or designee a student from class if the student has exhibited behavior that repeatedly or substantially interferes with the teacher's ability to teach students in his or her class or the ability of other students to learn in the class. (O.C.G.A. 20-2-738 (a- h)). The superintendent shall fully support the authority of principals and teachers to remove a student from the classroom pursuant to O.C.G.A. 20-2-738.

Where a teacher has previously filed a report of a student's repeated or substantial interference with the classroom or where the behavior of a student poses an immediate threat to the safety of student's classmates or the teacher, the teacher shall have the authority to remove the student from the classroom pursuant to O.C.G.A. 20-2-738.  

Gainesville City Schools provides support for students to maintain appropriate codes of conduct by the use of a Positive Behavior Support System, which includes student participation in establishing a respectful and positive learning environment. Each school has components of Character Education that supports positive behavior. Further resources are offered by counseling, social work services, school psychologists, and partnerships with community agencies.

Within the provision of Elementary Secondary Education Act (ESEA) statute, parents/guardians may request information about the professional qualifications of their child’s teacher(s). The following information may be requested; certification information, college major/graduate certification or degree held, teaching under an emergency or provisional status through which Georgia qualifications or certification criteria have been waived, and qualifications of paraprofessionals. Parents/guardians wishing to request this information must notify the principal of the school at which the student is enrolled or the Chief Professional Services Officer, Priscilla Collins at (770) 536-5275.

The Gainesville City School System (GCSS) Title I Program promotes the belief that all children can learn and acknowledges that parents share the system’s commitment for the educational success of all students.  We recognize that a student’s education is a responsibility shared by system, school, family, and community. The Title I District staff and the Title I Schools work jointly to provide opportunities for the regular involvement of parents.  To ensure both, maintenance and effectiveness of the Parent Involvement Program mandate, the system provides opportunities for parents to become involved in the child’s education. For more information, see the entire policy on the district’s website or at the school.

The Gainesville City School Board recognizes that the use of tobacco products is a health, safety, and environmental hazard for students, employees, visitors, and school facilities. The Board acknowledges that adult employees and visitors serve as role models for students and that the Board's acceptance of any use of tobacco products implies school approval, if not endorsement, of such use. In addition, the Board recognizes that it has an obligation to promote positive role models in schools and promote a healthy learning and working environment, free from unwanted smoke, for the students, employees, and visitors to the school campus. Finally, the board recognizes that it has a legal authority and obligation pursuant to the Georgia Smoke Free Air Act of 2005, the federal Pro-Children's Act, and the Georgia Youth Access Law.

Tobacco Use Prohibited

No student, staff member or school visitor is permitted to use any tobacco product, at any time, including non-school hours 24 hours per day, seven days per week:

• In any building, facility, or vehicle owned, leased, rented or chartered by the Gainesville City Schools;

• On any school grounds and property - including athletic fields and parking lots - owned leased, rented or chartered by the Gainesville City Schools; or

• At any school-sponsored or school-related event on-campus or off-campus.

In addition, no student is permitted to possess a tobacco product. The policy may permit tobacco products to be included in instructional or research activities in public school buildings if the activity is conducted or supervised by the faculty member overseeing the instruction or research and the activity does not include smoking, chewing, or otherwise ingesting the tobacco product.

Tobacco Products and Tobacco Use
Tobacco products are defined to include cigarettes, chewing tobacco, blunts, blunt wraps, pre-wrapped blunt cones & tubes, cigars, cigarillos, bidis, pipes, cigarette packages or smokeless tobacco containers, lighters, ash trays, key chains, t-shirts, coffee mugs, and any other items containing or reasonably resembling tobacco or tobacco products. Tobacco use includes smoking, chewing, dipping, or any other use of tobacco products, or nicotine delivery devices, such as e-cigarettes.

The term “electronic cigarette” means any oral device that provides a vapor of liquid nicotine, lobelia, and/or other substance, and the use or inhalation of which simulates smoking. The term shall include any such devices, whether they are manufactured, distributed, marketed or sold as e-cigarettes, e-cigars, e-pipes, or under any other product name or descriptor.

Enforcement for Students

Consequences for students engaging in the prohibited behavior will be provided in accordance with the school's behavior management plan. Students who violate the school districts tobacco use policy will be referred to the guidance counselor, school nurse, or other health or counseling services for all offenses for screening, information, counseling and referral. All student violators will have access to an Alternative to Suspension (ATS) program. The ATS program will provide up-to-date information on the many consequences of tobacco use, offer techniques that students can use to stop tobacco use at school, and provide referrals to local youth tobacco cessation programs. Parents/guardians will be notified of all violations and actions taken by the school. School may also use community service as part of the consequences. Suspension will only be used after a student has several prior violations or refused to participate in other outlined measures.

1st Offense: Tobacco education/Alternative to Suspension course is mandatory; parent notification

2nd Offense: Tobacco education/Alternative to Suspension course is mandatory; parent notification

3rd Offense: Three-day suspension; parent notification

4th Offense: Administrator's discretion

School Grounds and Property
School grounds and property means and includes land, school facilities and school vehicles used for the provision of academic, extracurricular programs and administration by the district. School grounds include playgrounds and recreational places. School grounds include that portion of land, school facilities and other facilities owned by municipalities, private entities or other individuals during those times when the school district has exclusive use of a portion of such land, school facilities, or other facilities for the provision of extracurricular programs.

Signage

Signs declaring all school grounds and property as tobacco-free will be posted in all school buildings and vehicles. Signs will be posted at all vehicular entrances to school grounds and building entrances, and in all indoor and outdoor athletic facilities.

1.  A student currently enrolled in Gainesville City Schools in grades 6-12 may request a transfer to a traditional or non-traditional school setting for the upcoming (next) school year during the period of Choice Enrollment which is January and February prior to the next school year.  The transfer would be honored for the upcoming (next) school year.

2. A student who is currently enrolled in Gainesville City Schools in grades 6-11 may request a transfer during the school year with parent and administrative approval.  Transfers will be made at the beginning of a semester.  

3. An administrative placement to a setting that will best accelerate course acquisition may be made for a student when it is determined that the student is in danger of not graduating with his/her cohort.  Placement decisions will be made by a Consultation Team composed of the administration, parent(s), counselor, and teachers.  A final decision based on the Consultation Team’s recommendation is determined by the Superintendent or his/her designee.

All visitors to a school or school campus must report immediately to the main office of the school. Visitors may not go beyond the office without permission. Students are not allowed to bring nor have other children as visitors at school.