1. Have RESPECT for yourself, for others and for the teacher. You earn respect by giving it FIRST.
2. LISTEN to instructions and to each others comments and ideas. Attentive listening isn't just "hearing," it is also thinking about what you have heard.
3. PARTICIPATE in class and in school activities. Try new things. Don't be afraid to do something just because it looks crazy or seems different. Chances are, it will be fun and interesting.
Tardy / Truancy Policy
Students are responsible for being in class on time. This is not only a rule, but the law. Students who are tardy will miss important class contact time and may therefore lose participation points. Remember, you must be IN CLASS to PARTICIPATE!
Students who are absent from class without an excuse are considered Truant. Truancies will result in disciplinary action on the first and subsequent offenses. This action may be in the form of detentions or suspensions. Homework, tests or any other assignments missed during a Truancy may not be made up.
13 Absence Rule
In a given Semester, a student may miss up to 13 days of class. Upon reaching 13 absences, however, a student may be withdrawn from the course. 13 absences represents missing over 18% of the entire course. These may be excused as well as unexcused absences. When a student has missed that much time, school officials may decide to WF the student.
Passes
I will not be giving passes at all this year. Students should take care of their personal business during passing period. This includes getting your supplies for class and going to the restroom. Passes will only be given for health emergencies. PLAN ACCORDINGLY!
Supplies
You are REQUIRED to come to class prepared each day. Bring pencil, pen, paper and notebook. Bring it every day. Bring it EVERY day. BRING IT EVERY DAY!!!!! Need I say more?
PG-13 Rule
Keep language and the content of your writings appropriate to the school setting. Foul language and inappropriate content will not be tolerated. Remember, I am a "Teacher", not your "friend," and because of this, I have a responsibility to report certain things to the authorities. If you do not want your private business reported, I wouldn't discuss it at school.
School Dress Code
Students are absolutely allowed to express their creativity through thier choice of dress. However, attire may not interfere with the educational process or be dangerous to others. Clothing should be clean and modest. Attire should not be revealing. As a general rule of thumb, if a student can put his/her hands at his/her side and the fingers extend beyond the hem of the garment, it is too short. Students may not wear attire displaying drug, gang or alcohol references. Students may not wear spikes or other jewelry which may be dangerous. West High does not allow students to wear hats.
Electronic Devices
Ipods and other electronic media players are not allowed in class at any time. I strongly advise students and parents to not bring these items to school. They are a major target for theft. While cell phones ARE allowed on campus, they may ONLY be used before and after school and during lunch. Cell phones are NOT allowed on during class. Laptops are becoming more popular as a study aid at school. Again, these are very tempting targets for theft. Should a student wish to use a laptop during class, please discuss it with me first. Electronic items lost or stolen on school grounds are the responsibility of the student. The classroom is unlocked all day, and an adult may not be present in the room at all times. Students are advised not to bring electronic devices to school at all.
Food & Drink in Class
No food of any kind is allowed in the room during the class period. Students may have water during class provided it is in resealable plastic (unbreakable) containers. Gum is not allowed in the classroom at any time. Food items and drinks may be brought into the room during lunch, but are only allowed at the tables, not in the amphitheatre. Students who do not clean up after themselves may lose lunchtime privileges.
Students are suggested to read the Student Handbook for a full understanding of school policies. See the LINKS page.