2006-2007

Click on an active (gray) link below for more information.

Graduation Requirements	Attendance Policy	Textbooks	Clubs & Organizations
Grading Policies	BOE Policy	Student Insurance	Mr/Miss PHS, Officers, & Homecoming/Winter Spirit/Prom Courts
PSO/Joint Enrollment	Bell Schedule	Lockers	Media Center
Report Cards and Progress Reports	Homeroom	Student Parking and Automobile Use	Youth Apprenticeship Program
Test Dates and Registration Deadlines	Checkout Procedures	Cafeteria	Student Council
Gifted Program Information	-	Telephone Use	Vocational Cooperative Training Programs
Valedictorian and Salutatorian		Visitors	Accel/Dual Enrollment Program
Scholarship Information	Discipline Policy	FERPA Directory Information Notice	Guidance/Counseling
HOPE Scholarship	Tardy Policy	Disaster Preparedness Plan	Career Center
GHSA Guidelines	-	Student Internet Permission Forms	Student Advisement Program

Pickens High School • 500 Dragon Drive • Jasper, GA 30143

Main Office: (706) 253-1800
Fax Line: (706) 253-1815
School Mascot: Dragons
School Colors: Green and White

Principal: Tommy Qualls
Assistant Principals:
Shannon Gable (Technology Career Director), Lisa Galloway, Gary Peters, Chris Williams
Registrar: Maxie VanSant
Counselors: Carrilynn Corbin, Delane Lewis, Kathy Pickering, Fredna Raber
Athletic Director: Steve Sewell
Cafeteria Manager: Andrea Wood

In case of questionable inclement weather, call (706) 253-1710 and listen to WYYZ 1490 AM for information. You may also turn to WSB Television for updates.

PICKENS COUNTY NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

It is the policy of the Pickens County Board of Education not to discriminate on the basis of race, color or natural origin (Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964); sex(Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and Title II of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational Act of 1984); or handicap (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973) in educational programs, activities or employment procedures.

Inquires regarding compliance with Title II, Title VI, Title IX or Section 504 may be directed to the Pickens County Board of Education, 159 Stegall Drive, Jasper, GA (706-253-1700), or to the Director of Civil Rights, Department of Health, Education and Welfare, Washington, D.C. Any student who feels that the policy statement regarding Title II, VI, IX or Section 504 has been violated should check with the principal.

Graduation Requirements

Diplomas

Pickens High School offers the following types of diplomas:

• College Preparatory
• Technology/Career
• Special Education
• College Prep w/ Distinction
• Technology/Career with Distinction

Twenty-eight units are required for 12 th graders to graduate from Pickens High School in the year 2007. Every student except those in special education who have an IEP (Individual Education Program) must pass the Georgia High School Graduation Tests in order to receive a high school diploma.

Beginning with graduating class of 2004, 28 units will be required to graduate and only students who have met all the criteria to receive a high school diploma will be allowed to participate in commencement/graduation ceremonies, this includes completing and passing all sections of the Georgia High School Graduation Tests.

Senior Fee

There will be a $50.00 fee required of all students in the senior class who are candidates for graduation. This will pay for the costs of graduation including diplomas, diploma covers, graduation decorations, graduation programs, caps, gowns, extra tassels, and a senior t-shirt. This fee will be collected from all seniors during the month of February, 2007!

Required Area of Study

Students must earn a specific number of required credits in areas pertaining to the diploma track they are on. The Guidance Counselors or the homeroom teacher will be able to assist the student in determining the courses of study he/she will need to complete in order to receive a specific diploma.

Any student who does not complete all the criteria for a diploma but does meet the attendance requirement and has earned the needed units may be awarded the High School Performance Certificate. The certificate is not a high school diploma, but a certificate showing performance and attendance.

These diplomas and certificates comply with the policies of the Georgia State Board of Education and the Pickens County Board of Education.

Promotion Requirements (Grade 9-12)

Students are assigned to a grade level based on accrued units at the beginning of each school year. Summer school credits are included. Students may be moved to the next grade level after the first semester for grades 11 and 12 at the discretion of the principal.

For those 9 th grade students who entered high school in the 2005-06 school year or later, promotion/placement shall be made on the following basis:

To be promoted to the tenth grade – 6 units to include one unit in English, one unit in math, plus one unit of either science or social studies.

To be promoted to the eleventh grade – 13 units to include two units of English plus two units of math, two units of science, and two social studies credits.

To be promoted to the twelfth grade – 20 units to include three units of English plus eight

core academic units including math, science or social studies credit.

High school students will follow local board policies IHF, IHF(2), IHF(3), IHF(4), IHF(5) and the State Board of Education Rule for High School Graduation Requirements.

Grading Policies

Pickens High School operates on a semester (eighteen-week) grading period. There are two eighteen-week periods in a school year. Credit is awarded at the end of each semester. Students will be made aware of the exact grading procedure for each class by the course instructor.

Grade Weighting Policy

Courses listed below are those which will be weighted as "Honors/AP Weighted Courses." These courses receive an additional 10% to the final grade.

All other courses will be considered "regular courses."

PSO/Joint Enrollment

All grades from colleges and Appalachian Technical College will be reported as A, B, & C. These letter grades will be entered into our transcript file at Pickens High School as 95, 85, and 75.

Report Card and Progress Report Schedule

Report cards will be issued every nine weeks. They are to be signed by the parent and returned to the homeroom teacher. Progress reports will be issued at the mid-point of each nine weeks.

Test Dates and Registration Deadlines

PSAT TEST FOR THE 2006-2007 SCHOOL YEAR

SAT TEST DATES FOR THE 2006-2007 SCHOOL YEAR

GEORGIA HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION TEST DATES FOR THE 2006-2007 SCHOOL YEAR

**Additional information on these tests may be obtained in the Counselors' Office.

OTHER TEST DATES

Gifted Program

BOARD POLICY - Descriptor Code: IDDD - GIFTED PROGRAM

The Pickens County Board of Education shall develop and provide curricula for gifted students that incorporate the State Board of Education-approved student competencies and required curriculum. The curricula for gifted students shall be consistent with the requirements of Georgia Board of Education Rule 160-4-2-.38, Education Program for Gifted Students, and the Georgia Department of Education's Resource Manualfor Gifted Education Services.

The Superintendent and appropriate staff shall review and revise (if revisions are needed) its curricula for gifted students at least annually. An updated copy of the local program description shall be submitted to the Georgia-Department of Education whenever changes are made.

For additional information about gifted education in Georgia, please visit the following website:

Requirements for Valedictorian and Salutatorian

The student with the highest class ranking as determined by the highest weighted grade point average shall be recognized as Valedictorian. The student with the second highest class ranking as determined by the highest grade point average shall be recognized as Salutatorian.

In order to be named either Valedictorian or Salutatorian, as a minimum, students must have attended high school in the school system the last semester of their Junior year and during the first semester of their Senior year. Students must be and have been at the school of graduation during those semesters. Transfer credit used for calculation of the highest grade point average for determination of class ranking for Valedictorian and/or Salutatorian shall by accepted only from high schools accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (or agency recognized as a regional accrediting agency by SACS). All grades will be calculated based on the schools systems’ grading scale.

Class ranking shall be determined by the highest grade point average completed at the end of the first semester of the year in which the student is a graduating senior.

Scholarship Information

• EMC WALTER HARRISON SCHOLARSHIP - $1000.00  - Open to seniors whose families are members of EMC.

• ROBERT E. BYRD SCHOLARSHIP  -  $1000.00  - Awarded to one senior in each congressional district.

• Big Canoe Chapel - Open to seniors who plan to further their education.

• Wal-Mart  -  $1000.00  - Awarded to a senior with evidence of academic achievement and community service.  An essay is required.

• Partners for Educational Excellence - Sponsored by faculty and staff of Pickens County School System and local businesses.  Any senior may apply.

• Honea-Worley Family History - Awarded to two seniors for outstanding family history research.  First Place, $1500; Second Place, $750.

• Beta-Eta - For female residents of Pickens County who are planning to seek a degree in education.

• Garland Whitfield Memorial  - For seniors who plan to major in wildlife conservation or a related field.

• Jasper Banking Company - For college bound seniors who plan to major in business.

• Rotary Club  - For seniors who plan to attend Pickens Technical Institute

• Temple-Inland Foundation  -  $1000.00 given annually to Valedictorian and Salutatorian.

• Governor’s  - Given annually to the STAR student and Valedictorian.

• National FFA - For seniors who are FFA members and pursuing any field of study at a 2 year or a 4 year post secondary institution.

• SAE Engineering  - Applicant needs to enroll in an engineering program accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology.

• GAE  - Georgia Association of Educators  - Awards to graduating seniors who show the greatest potential as teachers.

• Georgia Farm Bureau  - This scholarship is available to the seniors whose parents or legal guardians are members of Farm Bureau.  Applicants must also plan to attend The University of Georgia or Berry College and pursue a major in agriculture or home economics.

• Georgia Mining Association - Open to seniors who have an overall average of 85 and SAT score of 900.  Essay is required.

• Whitey Zimmerman  - Open to a senior who has served as the student manager of an athletic team. GPA requirement - 3.0.

• ETC -  Open to all seniors who plan to major in Communications.

• Master 4-H – For students who have participated in the 4-H Program.

• Optimist Club – All STAR Students receive this scholarship.

• Bargain Barn – Open to all seniors.

• TDS - Essay contest.

• Scholarship for Triumph - Open to seniors who have excelled in the face of adversity.

• Community Foundation - Open to all seniors.

HOPE Scholarship

Beginning with the graduating class of 2000, the academic requirements for the HOPE Scholarship Program will change. Only the grades earned in core-curriculum high school subjects will be counted in figuring the GPA for HOPE eligibility. The only subjects that will be counted, and the number of units the student must have earned, are listed below:

College Preparatory Diploma

Students must earn a "B" average in the core curriculum subjects (as outlined above). A "B" average is defined as a 3.0 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale or 80 numeric grade average for the college preparatory track.

Technical/Career Diploma

Students must earn a "B" average in the core curriculum subjects (as outlined above). A "B" average is defined as a 3.2 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale or 85 numeric grade average for the career technical track requirements.

You can only have the required number of units in a subject category. For example, if you  have five units of English Language Arts, you can only count four units in the HOPE grade  average. In all of the subject categories, the units with the highest grades are selected if the student earns more than the required number of units for a subject. If a student does not earn enough units for a subject, the student is not HOPE eligible. When submitting the preliminary list, a student may have one less unit for each subject to be included on the  preliminary list. When submitting the final list, a student must have all units for each  subject to be included on the final list.

The College Preparatory requirement of 2 units of a foreign language must be two levels of the same language. For example, Spanish I and Spanish II. If a student has two units of one language and two units of another language, then the pair with the highest grade average is included in the HOPE grade average. If a student has three units of the same language, then the two with the highest grade average is included in the HOPE grade average.

To derive HOPE eligibility average, the grades for any classes failed and repeated will be averaged together. For example, if a student earned an “F” in Geometry and then repeated Geometry and earned an “A,” the grade for Geometry for HOPE eligibility will be a “C.”

ATTENTION CLASS OF 2007 AND BEYOND!

Beginning with the Class of 2007, grades from all high school coursework attempted in the core curriculum subjects (English Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Science, Science, and, for college preparatory students, Foreign Language) will be counted in computing the grade point average used for determining HOPE Scholarship eligibility. To be eligible for a HOPE Scholarship, students will have to graduate from high school with at least a 3.0 grade point average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale for the college preparatory track. On the technical career track, students must earn a 3.2 grade point average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale.

For example, three core-curriculum units of Science are required to graduate with a college preparatory diploma or career/technical diploma. If four units of core-curriculum Science which are all eligible to meet the diploma requirements are taken, then the grades from all four units will be included in the HOPE grade average. This also means that core-curriculum course work with a failing grade and the grades from repeated core-curriculum course work will be included in the calculation.

For more information, please visit the following website:

or call toll free at 1-800-505-GSFC (4732).

Public Colleges & Universities

If you wish to enroll in a degree program as an entering freshman at a Georgia public college or university, you must have the following qualifications:

• be a legal resident of Georgia
• be a 1993 or later graduate of an eligible high school
• earn a “B” average (80 cumulative average meeting the college curriculum track or an 85 cumulative average in any other curriculum track)

Students graduating from high school in the year 2000 and thereafter will be required to earn a “B” average in their core-curriculum subjects.

Students who receive the HOPE Scholarship for their freshman year can renew it for their Sophomore, Junior, and Senior years if they maintain a 3.0 average at the end of the year.

Public Technical Colleges

Georgia Residents who are attending a Georgia public technical college to earn a certificate are eligible for HOPE regardless of high school graduation date or grade average. If a student wishes to earn a diploma from a Georgia public technical college, he or she must have an 85 average to be eligible for HOPE. The HOPE grant covers tuition, mandatory fees and a book allowance up to $100 per quarter.

Private Colleges and Universities

If you wish to enroll in a degree program as an entering freshman at an eligible Georgia private college or university you must have the following qualifications:

• be a legal resident of Georgia
• be a 1996 or later graduate of an eligible high school
• earn a “B” average (80 cumulative average meeting the college curriculum track or an 85 cumulative average in any other curriculum track)

Students graduating from high school in the year 2000 and thereafter will be required to earn a “B” average in their core-curriculum subjects.

GED (General Educational Development Diploma)

Legal residents of Georgia who earned a GED after June 30, 1993 may receive a one time $500 HOPE award. This award can be used toward tuition, books, and other costs at an eligible public technical institute or public or private college or university in a degree, diploma, or certified program.

Eligibility for GHSA Activities

State guidelines for GHSA eligibility require that students pass 5 of 6 classes (or 3 of 4 classes of on block scheduling) in the immediately preceding semester and be on track for graduation (sophomores must have 4 units; juniors must have 10 units; and seniors must have 16 units).

PHS Attendance Policy

SECTION I

Only the following reasons will be accepted as “legally excused absences:”

1. personal illness
2. a serious illness or death in the student’s immediate family
3. religious holidays
4. absences mandated by order of governmental agencies
5. acts of GOD – (conditions which render attendance impossible or hazardous to the student’s health and safety)
6. serving as a page in the General Assembly
7. students age 18 or over shall be excused (1) day to either register to vote or to go vote

After each absence, upon returning to school, students are required to furnish a note within 10 school days from the parent and/or physician or the excuse is invalid. The note must contain the following information:

1. the specific reason the student was absent
2. the number of days and dates of the absence(s)
3. the student’s first and last name
4. the parent or physician signature
5. the telephone number of parent or physician

ALL OTHER ABSENCES ARE CONSIDERED UNEXCUSED.

SECTION II

If medically extended absences are necessary, hospital/homebound instruction is available for students who meet certain criteria. You must contact the county office at (706) 253-1700 to obtain papers to begin hospital/homebound services. Be sure to notify the HHB teacher of any special education involvement. Board Policy (IDDC) States: Any student who has a medically diagnosed, non-communicable physical condition that prevents said student from attending school for a minimum of ten (10) days shall be eligible for the services of a homebound teacher.

**The State of Georgia does not provide homebound instruction for students who are pregnant; therefore, students who are pregnant are not eligible for homebound services. There must be a medical condition other than pregnancy that qualifies a student for homebound services.

SECTION III: ATTENDANCE SUPPORT TEAM (AST)

The AST is an inter-agency collaborative effort composed of leading representatives from several state and local agencies, including Departments of Health, Children and Youth Services, Family and Children Services, and the school system. The AST meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month, beginning at 12 noon at the Pickens County courthouse. The team is responsible for reviewing, developing, and contracting with students, parents, and appropriate agencies an Attendance Improvement Plan to eliminate excessive absenteeism. Beginning this year, the AST may refer truant students to a Saturday morning tutoring session.

A report is generated automatically by the computer every Monday on any student who has missed 20% or more days of the total days of enrollment at that time. Each week the number of acceptable absences change as days of enrollment increase. For example, for the first month of school, using 20 days as enrollment days, a student would be referred to the AST if the student was absent 5 or more days. The referral is made whether the absences are excused or unexcused. Attendance Support Team referrals will be initiated by the Attendance Officer or School Social Worker only. Any teacher having pertinent information regarding student(s) enrollment history, should contact the Attendance Officer or the School Social Worker, so that the AST referral process will not be delayed.

SECTION IV: 20-2-690.1 - Mandatory Education for Children between ages 7 and 16 - GEORGIA STATE COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE LAW

(a) Every parent, guardian or other person residing within this state having control or charge of any child or children between their seventh and sixteenth birthdays shall enroll and send such child or children to a public school, a private school, or a home study program that meets the requirements for a public school, a private school or a home study program under such penalty for noncompliance with this subjection as is provided in Chapter 11 of Title 15., unless the child’s failure to enroll and attend is caused by the child’s parent, guardian or other person in which case the parent, guardian or other person alone shall be responsible; provided, however, that tests and physical exams for military service and the National Guard and such other approved absences shall be excused absences.

(b) Any parent, guardian or other person residing in this state who has control or charge of a child or children and who shall violate this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to a fine not to exceed $100.00 or imprisonment not to exceed 30 days , or both, at the discretion of the court having jurisdiction. Each day’s absence from school in violation of this part shall constitute a separate offense.

(c) Local school superintendents in the case of private schools or home study programs and visiting teachers and attendance officers in the case of public schools shall have the authority and it shall be their duty to file proceedings in court to enforce this subpart. (Ga. L. 1945,p. 343, & 1,10; Ga. L. 1969, p. 682, & 1; Ga. L. 1971, p. 264, &1; Code 1981, & 20-2-690; Ga. L. 1983, p. 3, & 16; Code 1981, & 20-2-690.1 enacted by Ga. L. 1984, p. 1266, & 1.)

*Pickens County School System Administration, Attendance Officer or School Social Worker has the right to require that a parent furnish a doctor’s excuse for student absences, at any given time during the school year.

SECTION V: TEEN-AGE AND ADULT DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY ACT

Effective January 1, 1998 local school systems are required to certify whether or not a student’s attendance pattern and discipline record will allow him or her to have a Georgia Driver’s permit or license. A student 15 through 17 years old must have a certificate of attendance before applying for a driver’s license or permit. PickensHigh School and PickensCountyMiddle School have these forms available upon request and certification.

SCHOOL-SPONSORED EVENTS

State standards specify that a student may not be absent due to school-sponsored events and non-instructional events more than the following:

1. A maximum of three instructional days (18 instructional hours) is allowed per school year in grades K-12 for the administrative scheduling of non- instructional activities.
2. In grades 9-12 individual student absences from classes are limited to 10 instructional days per year for participating in non-instructional activities.
3. In any grade 9-12 no student is allowed to miss any one class more than 13 times per year (three administrative and 10 individual) for non-instructional activities.
4. The local Board of Education adopted attendance policy is followed to grant additional absences for students who exceed the limitations listed above.

High School Attendance Policy as Adopted by the Board of Education

Recommendations for Inclusion In an Attendance Policy For Pickens High School

Policy Level:                                          Descriptor Code                                          Rescinds Code

Board Policy

Descriptor Terms:                                  Effective Date:

 High School Attendance Policy             July 1997               

Goal or purpose of attendance policy:

Legal absence from school:

Georgia State Board of Education policy states that children may be temporarily excused from school for the following reasons:

1. When personally ill and when attendance in school would endanger their health or the health or others.

2. When there is serious illness or death in their immediate family, which would reasonably necessitate absence from school.

3. On special and recognized religious holidays observed by their faith.

4. When mandated by order of government agencies.

5. When prevented from school attendance due to conditions rendering attendance impossible or hazardous to their health.

6. Registering to vote (not to exceed one day).

Students counted present in class:

Students should be counted present when they are actually present in class, when serving as an official page in the legislature, when assigned in-school suspension, when representing the school at a school function, or when served by the hospital/homebound teacher.

Minimum attendance requirements:

Students are required to be counted present a minimum of 85 out of 90 class periods per semester. Those students accumulating more than five absences in a class (regardless whether excused or unexcused) during a semester will receive no credit for that class unless a waiver is granted by the Attendance Review Committee. Transfer students will be subject to the same policy with their previous attendance record accompanying them.

Attendance Review Committee:

The Attendance Review Committee is a standing committee of five appointed by the principal and chaired by a school administrator. It should be made up of three (and possibly four) department heads, a member of the Board of Education (if possible), and a school administrator. This committee is authorized to grant credit only in cases where the excessive absences of the student have been shown to have been unavoidable and when appropriate make-up work has been completed at a passing level. This committee is authorized to require written verification from an attending physician or other recognized officials as part of the appeals process. Decisions of the Attendance ReviewCommittee/Principal may be appealed to the Board of Education.  

Parental contact concerning student absences:

Parents will be contacted by the school office on the fifth absence per semester either  by phone or mail to make them aware of the student’s absences and the fact that credit may be in jeopardy if more absences are accumulated.

Make-up procedures for work missed while absent:

Students must initiate steps to make up work missed while absent within three days  of their return to class. Students must then make up the work within a time frame established by the teacher.        

Hospital/Homebound Instruction:

If a major sickness or injury occurs and absenteeism is expected to be lengthy, the student may receive credit through application of the hospital/homebound instruction procedure or other arrangements approved by the principal.

Tardiness to school/class:

Tardiness to school and class should be treated as a discipline problem and should be dealt with in an effective manner by the school administration. Missing more than 45 minutes of class constitutes an absence in that particular class.

Bell Schedule

Homeroom

Homeroom will meet as scheduled as needed for record keeping, advisement, and other administrative purposes. STUDENTS MUST REPORT TO HOMEROOM.

Student Checkout Procedures

Students will be allowed to check out with written permission verified by a telephone call. Student’s will present the note to the administrative/clerical staff and will be issued an early dismissal pass. Students will not be released on a note alone, parental permission MUST be given over the phone in every case. The student’s name will be placed on the daily attendance sheet under early dismissals with the time noted.

In the event of emergency, the student’s parents/guardian of their designees will be contacted by phone and arrangements will be made for the student to check out.

From the time students arrive on campus, students who leave school campus at any time must first check out through the office. A student who comes on campus then leaves without checking out will be treated the same as skipping.

Notice to Parents/Guardians and Eligible Students of Rights Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g) (the Act), you have a right to:

1. 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) years of age or older, or those who are emancipated, your own education records. Parents or eligible students should submit to the [appropriate school official] a written request identifying the record(s) they wish to inspect. The [appropriate school official] will make arrangements for access and provide notice of such arrangements.
2. 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 student 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 student of the decision and inform them of the rights to a hearing. Additional information regarding the hearing procedure will be provided with the notification of the right to a hearing.
3. Consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the Act and the regulations promulgated pursuant to the ACT 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; a member of the school board; a person with whom the district has a legitimate educational record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility. [Optional: Upon request, the school district forwards educational records without prior consent to another school in which the student seeks or intends to enroll.
4. File with the United States Department of Education a complaint under 20 C.F.R. 99.64 concerning the alleged failures by the Pickens County Board of Education to comply with the requirements of the ACT 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, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20202-4605.

FERPA Directory Information Notice

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

1. Student’s name, address and telephone number
2. Student’s date and place of birth
3. Student’s participation in official school clubs and sports
4. Weight and height of student if he/she is a member of an athletic team
5. Dates of attendance at the Pickens County School System schools
6. Awards received during the time enrolled in Pickens County School System

Unless you, as a parent/guardian or eligible student, request otherwise, this information may be disclosed to the public upon request. You have the right to refuse to allow all or any part of the above information to be designated as directory information and to be disclosed to the public upon request. If you wish to exercise this right, you must notify the [principal of the school at which the student is enrolled] in writing within 10 days after enrollment date.

In compliance with the requirements of the No Child Left Behind statute, the Pickens Co. School District informs parents that you may request information about the professional Qualifications of your student’s teacher(s). The following information may be requested:

1. whether the teacher has met the Georgia Professional Standards Commission requirements for certification for the grade level and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction;
2. whether the teacher is teaching under an emergency or other provisional status through which Georgia qualifications or certification criteria have been waived;
3. the college major and any graduate certification or degree held by the teacher;
4. whether the student is provided services by paraprofessionals, and if so, their qualifications.

If you wish to request information concerning your child’s teacher’s qualification, please contact the principal at 706-253-1800.

PHS Disaster Preparedness Plan

State standards require that Pickens High School develop and maintain a School Disaster Plan that would prepare the school to save lives, minimize injuries, and reduce property damage in the event of a man-made or natural disaster.

The principal or assistant principal will implement this plan immediately upon receipt of notification that a disaster has occurred or is anticipated.

School personnel or students will not be allowed to leave this school unless permission is granted by the principal, his assistant, or an authorized individual that represents the principal.

All teachers that have student responsibility will keep an accurate account of students under their supervision.

Students may be release to their parents if the situation permits parents to come for their children.

Discipline Policy

Classroom discipline will be the responsibility of the teacher. A student’s failure to comply with the teacher’s actions due to a disciplinary problem will result in the student being referred to the administration. As noted above, teachers will handle disciplinary problems that arise in the classroom. Examples of these problems are class disruptions, unauthorized printed matter, tardiness, and use of mild profanity. The administration will deal with actions such as forgery of a staff member’s name, cheating, and insubordination. Repeat offenders of this nature will result in stronger actions being taken.

The administration will deal with actions such as disrespectful conduct, bullying, insubordination, obscene acts, class cuts, violations of the dress code, and other matters that result in loss of instructional time by parent conferences, corporal punishment, loss of parking privileges, extended detention, in-school suspension or suspension from school. Repeat offenses of this nature will result in stricter measures being used to discipline the student. Any student in an unsupervised area before school, break or during class will be treated as skipping. Extreme actions by students such as fighting, theft, possession of drugs or alcohol, possession of a weapon, or other activities that would result in the disruption of normal school activities will be handled as major disciplinary problems. This can result in extended detention time, loss of privileges/activities, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension or expulsion. Any activity

that is a violation of the State of Georgia’s law can result in the above disciplinary actions being taken and referral being made to the local law enforcement agency. Vandalism of school property will be treated as a major offense and will result in suspension or expulsion.

When a student is suspended from school or assigned to in-school suspension, the parents will be notified as to the length of the assignment. The student and his/her parents will be informed of the due process procedures that can be followed for appeal.

Any student who represents Pickens High School and is involved in disciplinary problems should be aware that he/she can be dismissed from the activity, event or sport for the remainder of the school year.

**ALL MATERIAL POSTED AT PICKENS HIGH SCHOOL MUST BE APPROVED BY THE ADMINISTRATION. DISCIPLINARY ACTION MAY RESULT IF THIS PROCEDURE IS NOT FOLLOWED.

ALSO SEE “STUDENT CONDUCT CODE” AND “STUDENT BEHAVIOR CODE” ON PAGES JCD AND JCDA IN THE BOARD POLICY.

Tardy Policy

Tardies to School - The administration will handle excessive tardies to school. A tardy bell will ring at 7:47. Students will report directly to 1 st period in the mornings by 7:50. Anyone arriving after 7:50 will not be admitted to class without a tardy slip from the office.

Tardies to Class - A student will be considered tardy to class if he/she does not arrive on time and have proper materials for class. Missing more than 45 minutes of class constitutes as an absence in thatparticular class. Classroom teachers will be responsible for tardies to their classrooms. Disciplinary actions taken by teachers will be supported by the administration. A student’s failure to comply with a teacher’s disciplinary action will result in the student’s being referred to the administration for further disciplinary action.

Textbooks

Students who lose books will be required to pay for the book immediately. A record should be made of this order that the fine be returned if the book is found. Fines for excessive damages or lost books will be assessed on the basis of the books lasting five years. Example: Cost of book is $6.00; lost after 2 years. Therefore, the school loses 3/5 of the use of the book. 3/5 x $6.00 = $3.60. This is the fine to the student. Excessive wear indicates that the life of the book will be reduced one year. The fine would be 1/5 of the cost of the book. Abuses such as marking pages, torn pages, damaged covers, etc., will be assessed by the subject matter teacher. Fines should range from $1.00 to the cost of the book. Report cards will not be issued at the end of the year to students who owe for books or other fees.

Student Insurance

The school will offer a group student insurance program. All students are encouraged to purchase accident insurance. A letter will be sent to parents to inform them of the coverage offered. This form must be returned accepting or rejecting purchase of this coverage. If a claim is necessary during the school year, a student should obtain a claim form from Mrs. Roper in the school’s main office.

NOTE: Any student who is going to participate in football must be covered by the preferred option of this student insurance program or his parents must sign a waiver form stating that they have insurance coverage and they will pay any additional expenses incurred from an injury or that they do not have insurance and understand they are financially responsible for any medical expenses incurred due to injury. All other students who are going to compete in athletic events other than football must have at least the basic coverage listed in this policy or sign the waiver forms noted above for football.

Lockers

All students will have an assigned locker for storage of books and other school related materials. These lockers are not to be used to store weapons and/or illegal objects or products. Students should refrain form keeping money or valuables in their assigned lockers. All lockers are the property of Pickens High School. No decorations or any kind will be allowed on lockers (stickers, decals, posters, etc...).

Student Parking and Automobile Use

There will be a $30 fee for an annual student parking permit. The parking permit must be visible at all times when on the PHS campus. If a student loses his or her permit, a replacement MUST be purchased for a fee of $5.00.

A student may earn privilege of parking his/her automobile on campus during school hours subject to the following terms and conditions:

1. The student must have a valid Georgia Drivers License.
2. The student agrees by signing a form that he/she fully understands that at no time when the student’s vehicle is on campus will the vehicle contain a weapon as defined by the Student Code of Conduct, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, any non-prescription drugs or illegal substances or any pornographic material. The student understands and agrees that he/she will be accountable for any item or substance in his/her vehicle, regardless of who places the item or substance in the vehicle or whether the student was aware of the same. The student agrees to inspect the vehicle before bringing the vehicle on campus each time in order to determine whether anything forbidden by the permit is in the vehicle.
3. The student agrees that his/her vehicle is subject to random searches at any time the principal or designee deems appropriate and the student agrees upon request to unlock his/her vehicle glove compartment, trunk or any other locked storage compartment in the vehicle for inspection.

This permit is subject to revocation by the administrative staff at any time any of the above conditions have not been met or the student is otherwise disciplined for any violation of the Student Code of Conduct. Student parking will be in individually assigned spaces only. Parking in unauthorized areas will result in disciplinary action. Continued violation will result in the student’s car being towed away at the student’s expense and loss of parking privileges.

While on campus, the maximum speed is 10 MPH. Buses and pedestrians have the right-of-way at all times. No reckless or dangerous driving will be tolerated. Once the student parks, he/she will immediately come into the building. Students will not go to their cars during the school day without permission from the administration. Any student driving on bonks or other unauthorized areas may lose their driving privileges. All students being brought to school and picked up after school should report to the front of the school building.

Cafeteria

All students will report to the lunchroom.  No student will leave the lunchroom without permission from the administrator on duty.  Students are not allowed to leave campus for lunch, and such action will be treated as "skipping." Students are not allowed to have lunch brought in or delivered.

Prices of lunch will be announced each year.  Forms for free and reduced lunches will be made available through homeroom teachers.  These forms must be completed and filed in the main office.

**STUDENTS MAY NOT CHARGE BREAKFAST OR LUNCH**

Convenient pre-payment is now available:

1. Students may pre-pay for their school meals. Each student will have an account that will accept any amount of pre-payment money, and as meals are purchased, the cost of the meal or individual items will be deducted from the account balance.
2. Students will be assigned a four digit I.D. number (the last four numbers of their social security number) which they will key in at the cashier station as they receive a meal or purchase side items. All students will be required to enter their I.D. number on the line regardless of their eligibility status (full paid, reduced-price or free). Their name will appear on the computer screen be verified by the cashier who will total the purchase.
3. Students are encouraged to pay by the week, month or year. Pre-payments and/or daily cash payments are made as students go through the line at breakfast or lunch. Student account records will document all payments and purchases made by the student. No charges will be allowed for meals in the PHS Dining Room.
4. Checks may be written to PHS. The total amount of the check will be applied to the student’s account for use in the school dining room. No change will be returned for checks.
5. Applications for Free or Reduced-Price meals will be sent home with every student at the beginning of the school year and, as requested, anytime during the school year. Please remember that if your student qualified for Free or Reduced Price meals last year, you must reapply within the first 30 days of the new school year.

Meal prices for the 2006-2007 school year are as follows:

BREAKFAST  $1.00                   

LUNCH  $1.50

Reduced-Price Breakfast  $.30

Reduced-Price Lunch  $.40

Student Use of the Telephone

Telephones located in school offices or classrooms are not for student use. Students are asked to inform their friends, employers and relatives that they may not take personal telephone calls at school. Messages will not be taken and relayed to students except in emergency situations. Students are also informed to make afternoon transportation arrangements prior to arriving at school in the mornings. Cell phones are not to be used during the school day. They should be kept in book-bags or lockers if needed after school.

Visitors

Students are not allowed to have guests in class. All visitors must report to the front office upon arrival on the school grounds. Loitering on school property is prohibited by law.

Clubs

The following clubs and organizations are available for students at Pickens High School:

Mr and Miss PHS, Class Officers, and Homecoming, Winter Spirit, and Prom Courts

Qualifications for Mr. and Miss PHS

The following rules and procedures are used as the criteria for the selection of Mr. and Miss P.H.S. and the Court:

1. The P.H.S. Court will be made up of 10 senior boys and 10 senior girls.
2. The Court will be nominated by seniors from a roster of senior homeroom students.
3. The faculty committee will review the nominations and determine eligibility.
4. Students in grades 10 through 12 will select one boy and one girl as Mr. and Miss P.H.S from the list of nominated, eligible seniors.
5. Eligibility will be based on the following criteria:
   Good conduct; no major discipline problems.
   Good academic standing; no failing subjects.
   Good leadership qualities.
   Cooperation with faculty.
   Active participation in at least three school activities.
   Dependability.
   Pleasing personality and good attitude.
   Attendance in compliance with Board policy during junior and senior years.
   Enrollment and attendance full-time at PHS during junior and senior years. (This also includes joint-enrolled seniors.)
   No married student is eligible.

Class Officer Requirements

1. Student must have an average of 80.0 or better by the end of the third nine weeks of the school year.

2. Student must be on track for graduation with his or her entering class.

3. Student must never have been denied credit for a class based on excessive absences.

4. Student must have never been assigned out of school suspension.

Students interested in running for class office will apply for candidacy with the appropriate grade-level homeroom teacher and have their names placed on the ballot pending faculty/administration approval.

Homecoming Court, Winter Spirit Court, and Prom Court Eligibility

1. Student must be on track for graduation.

2. Student must never have been assigned out of school suspension.

3. Student must be in compliance with the attendance policy for PHS.

4. Student must have had an average of at least 70 for the previous semester.

Media Center Use

As our school grows in population and our space gets more use, we must take everyone's needs and safety into account. The Media Center will follow these procedures to make it possible for everyone to have maximum access to the library and its services and for the media staff to have the ability to see to the daily administrative tasks required to keep the Media Center running smoothly.

Procedures:

Hours of operation:  7:30 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday

Students need an official Hall Pass from 8:00-3:00 except for break, before school, and after school. Every student needs a purpose for being in the media center. Book bags, food, and drink must be left at the door. Please bring your good attitude inside with you. Students must have a signed Internet permission form to use the Internet. The computers are for academic purposes only, as indicated by the Pickens County Board of Education. They must not be used for personal email, games, or any other purposes restricted in the student handbook. Students who misuse the computers are subject to having their privileges revoked. Printing is $.05 for black and white; $.25 for color. Photocopying is $.10 per sheet. A book may be checked out for a two-week period and is renewable if no one else has placed it on reserve. Overdue fines for books are $.05 per weekday per late book. Drivers' Education students who are assigned to other classroom teachers must stay in those classrooms. Groups of students may not use the study rooms without prior arrangement between their teacher and the Media Center staff.

In a world that is information-rich, your media specialists are information-wise.

Please let us help you have a successful year at your library.

Youth Apprenticeship Program

Youth Apprenticeship is a year-round, structured combination of secondary schooling and work-based learning. It is designed to facilitate a smooth transition from school to careers by enabling academically ready, self-motivated youth to enter a work-based learning program which leads to a high school diploma, a post secondary credential and a certificate of occupational skill mastery. Beginning in the junior year the student enrolls in courses related to his/her apprenticeship. During the junior or senior year the student may begin paid on-the-job training at the work place through a structured work place learning program. During the senior year students choose a career path that will continue their study through a third (and possibly a fourth) year at a technical school or continue their education at a two or four year institute. The goal or objective of the Youth Apprenticeship Program is to help students gain a deeper understanding of how to apply academic context to real life occupations, thus making education more meaningful.

Student Council

The Student Council’s purpose is to promote interest in studies, promote school spirit, and contribute to the general welfare of the school.

The Student Council is composed of six seniors, five juniors, four sophomores and three freshmen. Qualifications for membership on Student Council include:

1. An average of 80 is required for first semester. This average must be maintained.
2. No pass, no play rule applies to members.
3. Nominees must be willing to work, have a sense of responsibility and acceptable character.

Elections for 10 th, 11 th, and 12 th grade representatives will be held in May prior to the school year in which the representatives will serve. 9 th grade representatives will be chosen in an election held in September of each new school year.

Student Council has three officers. Qualifications for office include the following:

1. Candidates must have an 85 average for first semester. This average must be maintained.
2. President must be a senior.
3. Vice-President must be a junior or a senior.
4. Secretary-Treasurer may be from grades 10-12.
5. Candidates must make a speech before the student body.

Officers will be chosen in an election held in the spring prior to the school year in which the officers will serve.

Vocational Cooperative Training Programs

Several vocational programs at Pi