Welcome to Hixson High School!

5705 Middle Valley Road

Hixson, TN 37343-3267
(423) 847-4800 Fax (423) 847-4801 http://www.hcschools.org/hhs School Colors: Black and Gold School Mascot: Wildcat Principal: Lee R. Sims Assistant Principals Michael Smith Ronda Lyons

MISSION: The mission of Hixson High School is to provide an individualized, safe learning environment for all students to grow intellectually, emotionally, and socially in order to be productive, global citizens.

This agenda belongs to:

NAME ______________________________________________

This handbook provides general information for students and parents about policies of Hamilton County Schools and Hixson High School and is not intended to be all inclusive.

Table of Contents
School Calendar 2012-2013 ................................................... 3 School Map ......................................................................... 4-5 Alma Mater ............................................................................ 6 Bell Schedule.......................................................................... 6 Student Expectations .............................................................. 7 Types of Instruction................................................................ 8 Grade Classification ............................................................... 8 Grading System ...................................................................... 8 Graduation Requirements ....................................................... 9 School Counseling Department ............................................ 10 General Student Information ................................................ 13 Academic Honesty .................................................... 13 Attendance Policy ..................................................... 13 Automobile Regulations ............................................ 15 Bus passes................................................................. 15 Cell phones and Electronic Devices ......................... 15 Change of Address/Phone......................................... 16 Dress Code ............................................................... 16 Drivers License Policy ............................................ 17 Extra-Curricular Activities ....................................... 17 Hall Passes ............................................................... 18 HCDE Technology Acceptable Usage Agreement .... 18 Library/Media Center ............................................... 18 Lunch ........................................................................ 19 Make-Up Work ......................................................... 20 Materials Charge...................................................... 20 Medication ................................................................ 20 Obligations ............................................................... 20 PICK300 ................................................................... 20 Renaissance .............................................................. 20 Senior Capstone........................................................ 21 Senior Exam Exemptions .......................................... 21 Textbooks .................................................................. 21 Visitors...................................................................... 21 Wildcat Traditions .................................................... 22 Withdrawals/Student Transfers................................. 22 HCDE Code of Conduct ....................................................... 23
It is the policy of the Hamilton County Board of Education not to discriminate on the basis of sex, race, national origin, creed, age, or religion in any of the programs or practices in the school system. A complaint may be filed by anyone who has a grievance regarding discrimination as set forth in one of the following statutes: (1) the Rehabilitation Act of 1972, Section 504; (2) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, or (3) Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972. The school system encourages the reporting party or complainant to use the complaint form available from the principal of each school or available from the central office location.

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2012-2013 SCHOOL CALENDAR

August 7 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Registration August 13 ----------------------------------------------------- First Full Day of School August 16 ----------------------------------------------------- School wide Picture Day August 24 ---------------------------------- Progress Reports posted to PowerSchool September 3 ---------------------------------------------------- Labor Day (No school) September 7 ----------------------------------------------------- Wildcat Homecoming September 14 ------------------------------ Progress Reports posted to PowerSchool September 21 ---------------------------------------------------------- Senior Round-up October 5------ End of 1st Quarter, Report Card 10/19 (No School for students) October 8 12----------------------------------------------------------------- Fall Break October 17 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- PSAT October 19 ------------------------------------- Report Cards posted to PowerSchool October 23 ----------------------------------------------- Parent-Teacher Conferences October 26 ---------------------------------------------------------------- Student Day November 9 -------------------------------- Progress Reports posted to PowerSchool November 21-23 ------------------------------------------------ Thanksgiving Holiday December 4 7 ---------------------------------------------------- State Testing Dates December 7 -------------------------------- Progress Reports posted to PowerSchool December 21 ----- End of Term, Report Card 1/11/13 (No School for students) December 24 January 8, 2013 ---------------------------------------- Winter Break January 9, 2013 ------------------------------------- School Reopens, Term 2 Begins January 11 ------------------------------------- Report Cards posted to PowerSchool January 21 -------------------------------------- Martin Luther King Day (no school) January 25 --------------------------------- Progress Reports posted to PowerSchool February 5 -------------------------------------------- Writing Assessment for Juniors February 11 ---------------------------------------------- Parent-Teacher Conferences February 15 -------------------------------------------------------------- Student Day February 15 ------------------------------- Progress Reports posted to PowerSchool February 18 --------------------------------------------- Presidents Day (No school) March 15 ------------------------------------- End of 3rd Quarter, Report Card 3/22 March 19 ----------------------------------------- ACT Testing (Juniors only attend) March 22 --------------------------------------- Report Cards posted to PowerSchool March 25 - 28 -------------------------------------------------------------- Spring Break March 29 ----------------------------------------------------- Good Friday, No School April 12 ------------------------------------ Progress Reports posted to PowerSchool April 25 ------------------------------- Class Night, HUMC 7:00 p.m. (Tentative) May 2 and 3 ------------------------------------------------- Senior Exams (Tentative) May 3 --------------------------------------- Progress Reports posted to PowerSchool May 7 - 10 ---------------------------------------------------------- State Testing Dates May 11 ---------------------------------------------------------- Graduation (Tentative) May 23 ------------------------------ Teacher In-Service, Records Day (No classes) May 24 ------------------ School Year Ends, Report Cards posted to PowerSchool

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ALMA MATER
In the thriving town of Hixson, reared against the sky proudly stands our old high school, as the years go by. Lift the chorus, speed it onward. Loud our honors ring. Hail to thee, old Hixson High School, as thy praise we sing.

BELL SCHEDULE 2012-13

The following is the 2012-13 daily bell schedule. It may be modified as needed for special events, assemblies, and/or testing dates. Dismissal from Commons Block 1 Block 2 (Skinny) Block 3 Block 4 1st lunch 2nd lunch 3rd lunch Block 5 (College & Career Skills) Block 6 and Extended Block 6 Expanded Learning Time PICK 300 7:05 a.m. 7:15 8:25 8:30 9:20 9:25 10:35 10:40 12:25 10:35 11:01 (Tardy 11:06) 11:17 11:43 (Tardy 11:48) 11:59 12:25 12:30 1:00 1:05 2:15/4:00 2:15 3:50

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STUDENT EXPECTATIONS
BE PREPARED AND ON TIME FOR CLASS This means: Bringing books and all appropriate materials to class Being inside the classroom before the tardy bell rings This does not mean: Asking to go to your locker or the bathroom after the tardy bell rings Being in the hallways when the tardy bell rings RESPECT THE RIGHTS OF OTHERS WHO MAY HAVE DIFFERENT OPINIONS OR VIEWPOINTS This means: Respecting a variety of viewpoints Appreciating individual differences This does not mean: Seeing one way to do things Making put-downs of individuals/ideas WORK COOPERATIVELY WITH TEACHERS, ADMINISTRATORS, AND FELLOW STUDENTS This means: Exhibiting common courtesy Following directions This does not mean: Being belligerent or rude in any setting Using inappropriate language/gestures OBTAIN AND COMPLETE ALL WORK MISSED DUE TO AN ABSENCE FROM CLASS This means: Asking the teacher for missed work as soon as you return from being absent This does not mean: Waiting until the grading period is over before asking for missed work TAKE CARE OF ALL SCHOOL PROPERTY AND GROUNDS This means: Putting trash and recyclables in appropriate containers Keeping food and drink in eating areas Keeping restrooms clean This does not mean: Marking on walls, desks, or other school property

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TYPES OF INSTRUCTION
College and Career Prep: College and career prep instruction is a rigorous and challenging standards based form of instruction where the expectation for students is one of grade level mastery of content. All Hixson High School courses provide quality instruction for students. Dual Enrollment Program: Students with satisfactory ACT score and GPA may apply to take Dual Enrollment courses. Chattanooga State Community College allows students with a 19 on the ACT and a 3.0 GPA to take courses, which earn both high school and college credit. Classes with 15 or more students may be held on the Hixson campus during regular school hours. Students with appropriate transportation may take classes on the college campus. Dual enrollment courses are available through UTC and CSTCC, may last year long, and take up two blocks in the students schedule. Advanced Placement (AP): The College Boards Advanced Placement Program is an opportunity for students to pursue college-level studies while still in secondary school and to receive advanced placement and/or credit in college. Courses offered for advanced placement include: Language/Composition, Literature/Composition, Calculus, US History, Chemistry, Biology, and Music Theory. New courses are continually developing. College credit is awarded based upon results on national exams administered in May of each school year.

GRADE CLASSIFICATION
Grade classification occurs at the beginning of the academic school year. Grade classification (promotion/retention) is based on total accumulated credits. Grade classification for the 2011-12 school year is as follows: 9th grade 0 to 5 credits 10th grade 6 credits 11th grade 12 credits 12th grade 20 credits

GRADING SYSTEM
Parents and students may access their grades online at any time through the Power Teacher parent portal. Grades will be updated every Tuesday. Report cards are available each nine weeks. Progress reports are available twice during each nine week period. Grades are reported on a numerical basis. To receive credit for a course, a student must maintain an average of 70 or above. Grades are finalized at the end of each semester. The finalized grades are used to calculate Grade Point Average (GPA). The grading scale is as follows: A = 100 93 B = 92 85 C = 84 75 D = 74 70 F = 69 0

HONORS POINTS (within Hamilton County Grading Policy) The numerical grade is capped at 100. Numerical points are added to the semester averages as follows: Five for Advanced Placement Courses; Three for Dual Enrollment Courses; Three for Honors Courses. -8-

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
OVERVIEW To meet the requirements for graduation in the Hamilton County School System, a student must (1) earn the specified Carnegie units, (2) have satisfactory records of attendance and conduct, and (3) have a capstone experience. All students follow a single path diploma. END OF COURSE EXAMS The Tennessee Department of Education requires End of Course Exams be administered to all students in Algebra I and II, Geometry, Biology, English 9, 10, and 11, U.S. History. These exams will be given at the end of the appropriate course and will serve as 25% of their grade. SELECTION OF VALEDICTORIAN The Valedictorian must earn the highest numerical average rounded to the nearest hundredth not to exceed 100. The Salutatorian must earn the second highest numerical average. Both should be based on taking two of the highest academic course levels each year to include AP, Dual Enrollment, and Honors courses offered in the core curriculum (English, Math, Science, Social Studies) of the single path at each high school. The Valedictorian and Salutatorian must be enrolled at the beginning of the junior year in the school from which he/she graduates. Students graduating with six semesters or less are not eligible to be named valedictorian, salutatorian, or receive a senior award. If the previous school did not offer advanced course offerings or if there was a scheduling conflict, a student should not be penalized. DIPLOMAS 1. A Hixson High School Diploma will be awarded to students who successfully complete all graduation requirements for Hamilton County. 2. A Hixson High School Certificate of Attendance is awarded to students who earn the specified 28 Carnegie units and who have a satisfactory record of attendance and conduct, but who have not passed the required state-mandated tests. 3. An Exceptional Education Diploma is awarded to those students who have successfully completed their Individualized Educational Plan as determined by the IEP team. 4. A State of Tennessee Diploma is awarded to those students who have satisfactorily completed state credit and/or IEP requirements, passed and completed state-required assessments, have a satisfactory record of attendance and conduct, and meet any additional requirements from the graduating school.

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Graduation Requirements
English 4 credits Math 4 credits Algebra I Geometry Algebra II 1 Advanced Math Science 4 credits Biology Chemistry/Physics 2 other Lab Sciences Social Studies 3 credits World History/World Geography American History American Government and Economics Wellness or 1 credit or ROTC 2 credits PE .5 credit Personal Finance .5 credit Foreign Language 2 credits (same language) Fine Arts 1 credit Capstone Experience Successful completion (Senior project or Service Learning) required, credit optional Elective Focus 8 credits TOTAL 28 credits

Students transferring to our system as high school students having passed Algebra I in the 8th grade advance to Geometry, Algebra II, and two advanced math courses. Students must take a math class every year.

SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT

The Hixson High School Counseling Department works with the school staff, the community, and parents to help students with their personal, educational and vocational development. The following is a general description of services available as well as a timeline for the HCDE School Counseling Program. CAREER/INTEREST ASSESSMENT The School Counseling Department encourages students to take a career/interest assessment during their freshman year. This program helps students assess their interests, skills, and work values. Students are able to build their personal career plans and explore a variety of college and career options by using this program all through their high school years.

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GRADE 9
Small Group Orientation w/Counselor Reality Check

GRADE 10
Dual Enrollment/ Advanced Placement How to Get a Job

GRADE 11
Dual Enrollment/ Advanced Placement How to Become a Millionaire College Fair

GRADE 12
Dual Enrollment/ Advanced Placement College Fair College Applications & Essays College Trip 4 yr Plan Review and Credit Check Career Exploration/ Inventory Student/Parent Night ACT/SAT

College Trip 4 yr Plan Review Career Exploration/ Inventory Student/Parent Night

College Trip 4 yr Plan Review and Credit Check Career Exploration/ Inventory Student/Parent Night PLAN/PSAT ACT/SAT

College Trip 4 yr Plan Review and Credit Check Career Exploration/ Inventory Student/Parent Night ACT/SAT/PSAT ASVAB EOC Writing Assessment Summer Opportunities Making College Search Count Presentations NCAA Clearinghouse Job Shadowing

EOC

EOC

EOC Capstone/Service Learning Summer Opportunities Making College Count Presentations NCAA Clearinghouse FAFSA and Scholarships

Summer Opportunities Making High School Count Presentations

Summer Opportunities Making High School Count Presentations

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS EXAMS Each college sets its own admission testing requirements and scores. A very few colleges will accept only the SAT or the ACT; almost all will accept either. Application for both tests is done online: the ACT at www.actstudent.org and SAT at www.collegeboard.org. As part of the registration process, scores may be sent directly to your intended college(s). Include your high school code (HHS is 430-900) to have score reports sent to the high school to become part of your permanent records and reported on high school transcripts. - 11 -

Preparation Guides for the ACT and SAT are available in the School Counseling Office. These booklets include general information about the tests, useful tips, and a complete practice test. Visit www.number2.com for free online test preparation. AMERICAN COLLEGE TESTING PROGRAM The ACT measures skills in four major curriculum areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning. Scores are reported on a scale of 1-36 for each subject area, and a composite score (average of the four subject area scores) is also given. Students who plan to attend college are encouraged to take the test during the second semester of the junior year and, if necessary, again during the fall of the senior year. Register online at www.actstudent.org. Hixson High is a test site for all dates listed below (test site code #197930). All juniors will take the test district-wide on March 19, 2013. Test Date Sept. 8, 2012 Oct. 27, 2012 Dec. 8, 2012 Feb. 9, 2013 April 13, 2013 June 8, 2013 Registration Deadline Aug. 17, 2012 Sept. 21, 2012 Nov. 2, 2012 Jan. 11, 2013 March 8, 2013 May 3, 2013 Extra Fee/Late Registration Aug. 18 24, 2012 Sept. 22 Oct. 5, 2012 Nov. 3 16, 2012 Jan. 12 18, 2013 March 9 22, 2013 May 4 17, 2013

NAVIANCE Introduced to students in the 9th grade, Naviance is an online provider of planning and advising systems for schools with resources for counselors, teachers, administrators, and students and parents. It is a search engine that allows parents and students access to college and scholarship information, offers ACT test preparation, and provides a link to our College Access Advisor. COLLEGE ACCESS By partnering with Hamilton County school counselors, the College Access Center works to increase the number of students who pursue postsecondary education. In support of the existing School Counseling program, school-based college advisors collaborate with counselors by serving as a resource for college and financial aid information for students, parents, faculty, and staff. Some activities of the College Access advisor include: Conducting curriculum/college planning workshops for 9th and 10th graders. Meeting one-on-one with students during spring of the junior year or early fall of the senior year to build and refine postsecondary plans. Handling registration for the ACT, monitoring vouchers and fee waivers, and reporting trends in scores. Maintaining a college counseling database for ongoing accountability, end-of-year reports and college matriculation follow-up. Working with UTC peer counselors to help families complete FAFSA Coordinating college tours and/or representative visits to the schools. Assisting students with college and scholarship applications. - 12 -

GENERAL STUDENT INFORMATION ACADEMIC HONESTY

All students are expected to produce their own original work. Violations of academic honesty include, but are not limited to: cheating, plagiarism, copying, inappropriate aid, selling or buying papers/projects, and forging of parental or doctors notes. Students will not be given credit for work involving violations of academic honesty. The teacher will contact the students parent/guardian and refer the case to the administration. Recommended disciplinary actions include: First Offense: zero on assignment, parent and administration notification by teacher Second Offense: 1 day ISS and first offense consequences Third offense: 3 days ISS and first offense consequences

ATTENDANCE POLICY
According to the law (Tennessee Code Annotated 49-6-3001(c)) every parent, guardian, or other person residing in this State having control or charge of any child between the ages of six (6) and seventeen (17), both inclusive, shall cause such child or children to attend a public or non-public school, and in event of failure to do so, shall be subject to the penalties hereinafter provided. Any child who is habitually and unlawfully absent from school must be reported to the appropriate judge having juvenile jurisdiction in that county, the child to be dealt with in such manner as the judge may determine to be in the best interest of the child. The judge may assess a fine of up to fifty dollars (50.00) or five (5) hours of community service against the parents or legal guardians of Kindergarten through grade 12 (K-12) children if the child is absent more than five (5) days during any school year. (Tennessee Code Annotated 49-6-3007(f)). Hamilton County Department of Education Board Policy (6.200) The following are legal reasons for excusing a student from attending school: Personal Illness Students are excused who are sick and whose attendance would be detrimental to their health and the health of other students. A physicians statement may be required. Death in Immediate Family Students may be excused for three days in the event of a death in their immediate families including mother, father, stepparent, brother, sister, or grandparent. Extenuating circumstances may require a longer period of excused absence. Family Illness Students having an illness in the family which requires them to give temporary help will be excused from attendance after receipt of a physicians statement concerning the necessity of the students assistance. Religious Holiday Students shall be excused on special or recognized religious holidays regularly observed by that particular faith. Prior approval is required should these days occur while school is in session. - 13 -

Personal Students who are absent for a good cause (doctor or dental appointment which cannot be scheduled at times other than school hours, court appearances, etc.) may be excused upon proof of appointment. Prior approval by parent or guardian, and the principal or his designee is required. Approved School-Sponsored Activities Students are marked present when participating in a school-sponsored activity away from the school building. HCDE Attendance Procedures for 2012-2013 are as follows: By law students are allowed five unexcused absences per school year. HCDE will allow parent excuses to serve as documentation for three additional personal illness days. After the five unexcused days and the three additional personal illness days, parents must provide medical services documentation for the following: personal illness, family illness, or personal (as defined above). To avoid student absences being recorded as unexcused, a written statement signed and dated by the parent or guardian and any medical documentation should be presented to the appropriate school official within three days of the student returning to school. If the following conditions apply, school social workers will contact parents about their childs attendance: After ten or more unexcused absences: Parent/guardians will be notified via legal notice indicating that their child has become truant and a petition may be filed with Hamilton County Juvenile Court. If unexcused absences continue after the Informal Truancy Hearing at Juvenile Court, parent/guardians will be petitioned to attend a Formal Hearing before a Juvenile Court Judge at which time fines and community service may be assessed. DISMISSAL POLICY Students who need to leave the grounds before the normal 2:15 p.m. dismissal time must follow certain procedures. To maintain good student attendance and to keep class disruptions to a minimum, all efforts should be made to schedule dismissals at the end of a class block. A bell schedule is included in this handbook for reference. Students must always receive office approval before leaving, regardless of the reason. Notes are accepted in advance for verifiable doctor or dental appointments, and court orders only. They must be brought to the attendance secretary by 7:30 a.m. on the day of the dismissal, and should include the following: 1) Students name; 2) Name and phone number of the medical provider; 3) Date and time of appointment; 4) Parents signature and daytime phone number. Students being dismissed for court appearances must have proper court documentation. Students are not to leave until the appointments have been verified. A student must sign out or in on the logbook in the main office and will receive a dismissal slip verifying approved dismissals. All other dismissals from school require a parent signature in our log book in the office. Sign outs are accepted as much as 24 hours in advance. Phone dismissals are discouraged and require administrative approval only in the case of emergencies. NOTE: No early dismissals will be permitted during the last 30 minutes of the school day. - 14 -

TARDY TO SCHOOL OR CLASS POLICY Habitual tardiness results in disciplinary action as follows: 1st offense warning; 2nd offense teacher consequence; 3rd offense teacher consequence and parent contact; 4th offense discipline referral to administration; 5th and all subsequent offenses ISS or suspension. Students who arrive after 7:15 are to report directly to the office for an admit slip and must sign the tardy register. Failure to sign in may result in disciplinary action and the student being marked absent for the entire day.

AUTOMOBILE REGULATIONS
Only students with valid auto decals, a valid drivers license, and proof of liability insurance coverage are allowed to drive automobiles. Vehicles must be registered ($75) each year and a decal hung from the inside rear view mirror. In accordance with HCDE policies, parking fees will not be refunded at any time. The school system is not liable for any loss or damage. 1. Speeding (15-mph limit), reckless operation or making excessive noise on school property will not be tolerated. 2. Students may park only in their assigned space and must exit their automobiles upon arrival to school. 3. Students must have permission and a pass from the office to enter the parking areas during the day. 4. Auto decals are not transferable to other students. 5. Non-decal holders must park at the Tennis Courts. Violators are subject to loss of driving privileges or space reassignment. Hixson High School reserves the right to fine and/or remove, at the owners expense, any vehicle without a parking permit or any vehicle violating traffic or parking regulations of Hixson High School.

BUS PASSES
Occasionally a student may wish to ride a bus home with a friend. A signed parent note stating students names, the bus number, and the riding date should be submitted to the attendance secretary before lunch on the requested day. The student will then receive a special pass to board the bus. The administration reserves the right to deny such requests based on space availability on the bus or other reasonable circumstances.

CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Cell phones, electronic devices and accessories including all listening paraphernalia, etc. are prohibited during school hours, 7:15 2:15.

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Any electronic device, including cell phones, that is seen whether being used or not, will be confiscated and held for a minimum of ten calendar days. Should a student become disagreeable, uncooperative or belligerent, the device may be confiscated for the school year and not returned to the student, parent, or guardian. Confiscation is in accordance with Hamilton County Department of Education policy. In accordance with HCDE Administrative Procedures, violation of the schools electronics policy shall include the following consequences: 1st violation device confiscated for 10 calendar days 2nd violation device confiscated for 20 calendar days 3rd violation device confiscated until the end of term Any phones not picked up within 1 week after the last school day in a school year become the property of the school. Schools are not responsible for any theft or loss of any electronic device whether it is confiscated or in the students possession.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR PHONE

Inform the Registrar in the Guidance Office if you and/or your parent/guardian have a change of address, e-mail address, or telephone number. This will assist in routine school communication as well as in the case of emergencies.

DRESS CODE - The purpose of any dress code is to present a student

body that is professional and well-dressed in appearance. Students must be dressed appropriately and student dress must not cause a distraction from the learning environment. Student dress must not contain any language, pictures, or symbols that are inappropriate or offensive. Shirts/Tops must be appropriately sized and able to tuck into pants. Sleeveless tops are allowed with shoulder straps the width of at least two fingers. No strapless tops are allowed. Over wearappropriately sized jackets, sweatshirts, hoodies, and sweaters are allowed. If removed, appropriate dress code must be worn underneath. No Hats/head coveringsHats/head coverings must be kept in cars or placed in lockers by 7:15 a.m. No hats are to be out during school hours. Pants, capris, and shortsworn at waist level, with shorts being near knee length. No pajama pants. No sagging is allowed. Skirts must be of appropriate length, coming to right above the knee. Unacceptable items: large chains, wallet/belt-chains, or spiked items.
The administration reserves the right to make adjustments to the dress code as needed.

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DRIVERS LICENSE POLICY

Students under 18 years of age who apply for a Tennessee drivers license or permit must show proof of regular school attendance and satisfactory academic performance. Application forms are available in the main office. School processing takes 48 hours. Any student, who has 10 consecutive absences, or a total of 15 absences from August through December or from January through May, is reported to the Tennessee Department of Safety for license denial or revocation. Students in schools on a four class per day block schedule must earn passing grades in at least three full unit subjects each term.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
ATHLETICS The Hixson High School Athletics Program is a member of the Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association. Students must earn six credits the preceding school year, receiving credit in three out of four classes in the preceding term to participate in any TSSAA sport. Other restrictions may apply. Hixson High School participates in the following TSSAA activities: Fall Sport Winter Sport Football Wrestling Girls Soccer Boys Basketball Volleyball Girls Basketball Golf Bowling Cheerleading (Year long) Cross Country Spring Sport Baseball Softball Track, Boys Track, Girls Tennis Boys Soccer

SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS AND INTEREST CLUBS - Hixson High School offers membership in a variety of student groups. Some groups have specific academic requirements and others are closely tied to the students pathway of study. Each student group requires faculty sponsorship. Beta Club Character Ed. Council Chess Club ECO Club FBLA FCA FCCLA HOSA Key Club Literary Magazine Mock Trial Tri-Hi-Y Model UN National Honor Society Science Olympiad Student Council

Hixson High School has a large student participation in Band, Strings, and Choir. Participants in these groups earn fine art credit towards graduation and perform at different functions during the year. Students are eligible for induction into the National Honor Society at the end of their sophomore year if they have a GPA of 86 or higher, a record of school service, and no disciplinary actions within the current school year. Beta Club requires a GPA of 90 and is open to seniors, only. For eligibility for class officers and other honors check with class sponsor or an administrator. - 17 -

HALL PASSES
Students are not permitted in the halls during class periods unless they have a school pass from a teacher. Emergency phone calls may be made in the office with the permission of an administrator.

HAMILTON COUNTY SCHOOLS TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USAGE AGREEMENT

The following is an excerpt from the Hamilton County Schools Technology Acceptable Usage Agreement. Hixson High School students receive a copy of the entire policy at the beginning of the school year or upon enrolling. It is also available online at the HCDE website and is posted at the school. To ensure that students receive a quality education in an intellectually stimulating environment, it is the goal of the Hamilton County Schools to provide all students with access to a variety of technological resources. The creation of a large and varied technological environment demands that technology usage be conducted in legally and ethically appropriate ways consistent with the policies and instructional goals of the Hamilton County Schools. Thus, it is the intention of the Hamilton County Schools that all technological resources be used in accordance with any and all school system policies and procedures as well as local, state, and federal laws and/or guidelines governing the usage of technology and its component parts. Additionally, it is understood that all users of Hamilton County Schools will use the provided technological resources so as not to waste or abuse, interfere with or cause harm to other individuals, institutions, or companies. The primary goal of the technology environment is to support the educational and instructional endeavors of students and employees of the Hamilton County Schools. Use of any and technological resources is a privilege and not a right. Any violation of the Acceptable Usage Agreement may result in termination and/or appropriate discipline. All Hamilton County Schools students and their parent/guardians and all Hamilton County Schools employees must sign this agreement as acknowledgment of receipt of these procedures and policies.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER
The Hixson High School Library/Media Center is an integral supportive component of the total educational program. The library is open during the school day; after school hours can usually be provided Monday through Thursday. Procedures are flexible to meet instructional needs. Unless you are with a class, you will need a pass from a teacher to use the Media Center. The Library/Media Center is open for student use during lunch periods pending space availability. The Library/Media Center is to be reasonably quiet at all times and students are expected to understand and respect the purpose for which a school library operates.

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NO FOOD/ DRINKS ARE PERMITTED IN THE LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER BOOKS may be checked out for a two-week period, renewable as needed. Four books may be checked out at a time. FINES for overdue books are assessed at the rate of 10 cents per school day. Checkout privileges are revoked if more than $0.50 is owed, or if a book is still out and overdue. AUDIOVISUAL EQUIPMENT and VIDEOS/DVDs are checked out by teachers only. COMPUTERS in the lab of 24 are available for student drop-in use if space is available. Internet access is available for students who have a signed parental permission slip (if under age 18) on file. Students who are 18 years old may sign the permission slip for themselves. Students accessing the Internet represent the Hamilton County School System and therefore have a responsibility to use the Internet in a productive manner that meets the ethical standards of an educational institution. Any action in violation of existing Board policy or public law is prohibited. Tennessee law requires schools to use an internet filter and circumventing that filter in any way is considered a violation resulting in disciplinary actions including, but not limited to, suspension of computer use privileges. COMPUTER PRINTERS are available for student use. Students must bring their own paper or pages may be printed at a charge of 10 cents per page. COPIER is available for student copies at 10 cents per copy. Teachers, librarian, or aides must make the copies. REFERENCE MATERIALS, MAGAZINES, and NEWSPAPERS do not circulate, but may be used or copied in the Media Center.

LUNCH
The Hixson High School cafeteria provides a variety of hot lunches. Students are assigned an account number by which they may deposit funds and then draw against from day to day, or they may pay on a daily basis. Students also may apply for a free or reduced lunch account. According to HCDE Policy, high school students are not allowed to charge meals. Students and parents may monitor lunch account balances online at www.MyPaymentsPlus.com. During lunchtime students are to be in the Commons. Students are not to be in the halls, at lockers, or in the parking lot as this disturbs other classes.

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MAKE-UP WORK
Students who have absences will be allowed to make up work missed in each class. It is the students responsibility to obtain all make-up work from his/her teachers immediately upon returning to school. Phone requests for make-up work should only be made in the event of a prolonged absence and will require the approval of the administration. All students are allowed to make up missed work within a reasonable amount of time for 100% of its worth, regardless of suspension or type of absence.

MATERIALS CHARGE
A pre-registration materials charge and class dues are necessary to help defray the cost of instructional supplies, testing materials, and locker upkeep. Students who qualify for Free or Reduced lunch may apply for a materials charge exception.

MEDICATION
If it becomes necessary for a student to take any form of medication at school, a medication profile, completely filled out and signed by both the childs licensed healthcare provider and parent(s), must be presented to the school nurse, if available, or secretary. All medication will be kept in the clinic and dispensed through the school nurse or secretary.

OBLIGATIONS
All financial and material obligations must be cleared at the end of the term. If any monies or unreturned materials are due the school or the Hamilton County Board of Education, online access to report cards will be blocked and transcripts will be held.

PICK300
Many students are involved in learning activities that are after school, on the weekends or in the summer that prepare them for college or for a career. They are learning by doing. Those students not yet involved in out-of-school learning will be asked to choose a learning activity in which they may engage in learning-by-doing. This will be their Pick 300 for their college and career class.

RENAISSANCE
Renaissance is an incentive program that recognizes student achievement in scholarship, attendance, and behavior. By meeting the qualifications listed below, Renaissance students receive benefits as determined annually by the Renaissance committee. These may include, but are not limited to homework or test passes, free or discounted admission to school events, priority parking selection, Renaissance spirit-wear, and announced reward days. In order for a student to qualify for any level of the Renaissance Program, he/she must meet the following criteria:

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1. 2.

All debts, including material charges, must be paid in full. No in- or out-of-school suspension.

COMMENDED STATUS (WHITE CARD) In addition to the above criteria, a student qualifies for the White Card by having an average of 75 for the term and no final Fs. DISTINGUISHED STATUS (BLACK CARD) A student qualifies for the Black Card by qualifying for a White Card and having an average of 85 for the term. EXCELLENCE STATUS (GOLD CARD) A student qualifies for the Gold Card by meeting all the criteria above and having an average of 93 or above for the term.

SENIOR CAPSTONE
Senior capstone is a substantive learning experience that occurs during the senior year and takes place outside the school. The student has a learning stretch as a result of this experience out in the larger community. There are four components to the capstone: 1) students proposal; 2) the experience itself, documented by a community member; 3) a reflection paper; and, 4) an oral presentation. The Senior Capstone is an HCDE graduation requirement.

SENIOR EXAM EXEMPTIONS

Seniors may earn 1st and 2nd term exemptions with the following qualifications: (1) no more than three absences during the respective term (2) passing grades of 85 for each course (3) no suspensions or adverse discipline record (4) having no obligations to the school. No student is exempt from a state or board end-of-course or exit exam.

TEXTBOOKS
All basic textbooks are provided to students for their use during the school year. Students must purchase workbooks and other supplementary materials. Textbooks should be kept clean and handled carefully. Once assigned, students are responsible for their own textbooks. Students will be required to pay for lost or damaged books.

VISITORS
Students are NOT to have visitors at school. Parents are always welcome at Hixson High School. We ask that an appointment be made ahead of time to see a teacher, counselor, or administrator. The school policy is to accept only those visitors who have legitimate business at school. ALL visitors must report to the main office first to receive a visitors pass. An administrator may refuse to issue a visitors pass anytime he or she feels it is in the best interest of the school to do so. Any person found on the school grounds without permission - 21 -

from the administration is trespassing and is subject to arrest by police authorities. Students are responsible for notifying their friends that they are not to be visited either in the building or anywhere on the school grounds.

WILDCAT TRADITIONS
SENIOR ROUNDUP The Senior Roundup is an annual event held in the fall. Following a picnic lunch, senior homerooms compete in a variety of fun events. The purpose of Roundup is to promote unity and class spirit. HOMECOMING Homecoming ceremonies are observed at a designated home football game, highlighted by the crowning of a queen during half time. The senior class chooses candidates, and the queen is then elected by a vote of the student body. JUNIOR-SENIOR PROM Juniors and seniors may attend the junior-senior prom held near the latter part of the school year. MILITARY BALL The Military Department sponsors a dance for all AFJROTC cadets and their dates. During the Military Ball, all seniors are recognized and the Military Court and King and Queen are announced. CLASS NIGHT Seniors are honored during the class night ceremony. Academic achievements as well as departmental recognition and community service awards are presented. Mr. and Miss Hixson High School are crowned. SENIOR COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT Each senior class sponsors two service projects that involve the entire class so that the class has the opportunity to make a contribution to the community and to instill in the seniors the importance of lifelong community service. HIXSON HIGH NEWSPAPER AND YEARBOOK When sponsored, Hixsons newspaper, The Claw, is published several times each year. The Pride of the Wildcats, our yearbook, is published annually to commemorate student accomplishments and memories throughout the year.

WITHDRAWALS/STUDENT TRANSFERS
Students who find it necessary to withdraw or transfer to another school need to report to the registrar in the guidance department to complete this procedure. Students must clear book and financial obligations with their teachers, coaches, the library, and cafeteria.

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HCDE CODE OF CONDUCT

The Hixson High School community is a partnership committed to high academic achievement and individual personal development in a safe, caring environment through the cooperative efforts of students, educators, family, and community partners. 1. We value each student as an individual. 2. We value total involvement of students, families, educators and community working together as a dynamic team. 3. We value high expectations and achievement, quality instruction, and extracurricular activities, which promote creative and personalized learning for all. 4. We value a quality of life, which promotes awareness, mutual respect, and trust for all individuals, the community, and the environment. The following are summary descriptions taken from the Hamilton County Schools Student Code of Acceptable Behavior and Discipline pamphlet. SEARCHES Students have the right to be safe and secure at school and pursue their education in a disciplined environment conducive to learning. Therefore, students and all their property will be subject to random administrative searches. Refusal to cooperate with a reasonable request may result in disciplinary action. ZERO TOLERANCE OFFENSES According to state and federal law, a student who commits a zero tolerance offense is expelled for one calendar year, unless modified by the Superintendent. This includes offenses on school properties, including buses and at school-sponsored activities. All violations will be reported to local law enforcement officials. The following are zero tolerance offenses Possession of a firearm, explosive, poison gas device, bomb or similar device. Illegal possession of a controlled substance or drug. Striking a teacher, principal, administrator or any other employee of the Hamilton County Department of Education, or an SRO. The following offenses may result in at least a calendar year suspension: Possession of a knife or any device capable of inflicting injury to another individual Possessing, transferring or receiving drug paraphernalia, nonprescription drugs or look-alike drugs. In School Suspension (ISS) Students placed in ISS will be required to complete all class assignments for work missed. Students must successfully complete one full day in ISS before returning to their regular classes. Late arrival or early dismissal from ISS will result in an additional day in ISS.

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MAJOR OFFENSES resulting in short-term or long-term suspension or possible expulsion. Alcoholic Beverages Selling of alcoholic beverages. Incident will be reported to local law enforcement officials. First offense suspension of up to 85 days. Second offense may result in expulsion. Possession and/or use of alcoholic beverages. Incident may not be reported to law officials. First offense suspension of at least 20 days. Second offense suspension of 85 days of more. Third offense expulsion. Arson Setting fire to or burning, or initiating the burning of any school property. Assault/Battery Physically attacking another person which results in bodily injury. Fighting Injuring or offensively touching another student during a fight. Gang Activity Gang related activity at school or any school function. Interference with Government Operations Spreading false rumors of a bombing, fire or another emergency. This includes bomb threats. Robbery Taking another persons possessions or money by force or fear. Sexual Offenses Conduct of a sexual or indecent nature towards another person that is accompanied by actual physical force. Threats Threatening a person with the intent to take their money or property, or causing them to do anything against their will. Any threat to do harm to self or others will be taken seriously. Trespassing Unlawfully entering a public school, grounds, or school bus. Vandalism Damaging or defacing any property belonging to the state, county, city, or to another person on school grounds or at a school function. There are other state and federal violations that have not been listed. Violations of all laws will be reported to law enforcement officials when necessary. Appropriate discipline will be initiated by the school. OTHER OFFENSES resulting in short-term or long-term suspension. Bullying/Harassment/Intimidation (defined as a repeated, intentional, and hurtful behavior directed to another placing a student in reasonable fear and causing a hostile educational environment) is a violation of HCDE School Board Policy. Claims of bullying/intimidation/harassment are to be directed to the building administrator for investigation without the fear of reprisal or retaliation. False accusations as a means of reprisal or retaliation will be disciplined in accordance with district policies, procedures, and agreements. Harassment (Sexual, Racial, Ethnic, Religious) Words, gestures, threats, or any other conduct which interfere with another students educational environment or place another student in fear of his/her safety. - 24 -

Pagers & Cellular Phones Unauthorized use of a pager or cellular phone while on school property, including buses, or at a school-sponsored event, without the permission of the school principal or his/her designee. Stealing Taking another persons property without their permission or knowledge. MISCONDUCT resulting in discipline at the discretion of the principal Attendance See special section for attendance Tobacco Use on School Property Student will be cited to Juvenile Court Indecent Language Disrespect to Teachers/Administrators Failure to Serve Detention or Attend Saturday School Forging an Official Note To/From School Improper Conduct Improper Dress, Cleanliness and Grooming Dress or grooming that is or could be disruptive of others education shall not be permitted. Hats or other types of headwear are not permitted without the principals approval. Students are expected to follow the dress or uniform code of the school. Littering on Campus Off-Campus Conduct A student may be suspended for conduct away from school if the conduct disrupts the education process at his/her school. SCHOOL BUS TRANSPORTATION By law, school bus transportation is a privilege and not a right. A student shall be prevented from using school bus transportation if his/her behavior physically endangers other riders, causes problems on the school bus or when he/she breaks state and/or local rules and regulations pertaining to school bus transportation.

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