Revised June of 2014

DCECHS STUDENT HANDBOOK Table of Contents

GENERAL HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION 2 Contact information 2 Daily high school schedule 2 High school early release schedule for non-college days 2 Reporting periods 2 Inclement weather 3 Visitors to school 3 Signs, posters, and fliers 3 Driver eligibility 3 Medications 3 Unpaid fees 3 College textbooks 3 Dropped college courses 3 College instructor sovereignty 3 Summer school opportunities 4

ATTENDANCE 4 Expectations 4 Absences from class 4 Documentation of absences 4 Sign in/sign out procedure 4

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS 4 High school grading scale 5 Honors List and Honor Roll 5 Final exams for high school 5 Final exams for DCCC 5 College readiness benchmarks 5 DCCC academic policy for Early College students 5 Learning lab procedure 6 Seminar 6 Community Projects 6

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 6 Clubs 6 Field trips 7 Winter semi-formal 7 Prom 7

STUDENT SERVICES 7 Comprehensive School Counseling program 7 Parent conferences 7 Scholarship, financial aid and testing information 8

ACADEMIC ADVISING 8 DCECHS Graduation Requirements 8 Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree requirements 8

GENERAL STUDENT POLICIES 9 Guiding principles 9 Honor Code 9 Food and drink policy 9 Dress code 9 Bus rules and expectations 9 Cell phone use 10 Personal electronic devices 10 Internet use 10 Lunch 10 Tobacco 11 Drugs, weapons, alcohol 11

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CONSEQUENCES 11

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES 12 High school transcripts 12 Valedictorian and salutatorian selection 12 Selection of student speakers for graduation 12 Attendance at required activities 12 Caps and gowns 12 Appropriate graduation attire 12 Expenses 12 Seating at graduation ceremony 13

SENIOR CLASS REMINDERS 13 Senior trip 13 Baccalaureate service 13 Senior class president 13 Senior gift 13

DCECHS STUDENT AGREEMENT 14

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General High School Information

Contact information

The main number for the Early College is 753-0888. You may call this number during regular business hours, M-F, from 8:00 – 4:00.

Name: Position: Melissa Lynch x 4602 Principal Lori Wyrick x 4600 Administrative Assistant/Data Manager

Miles Catlett x 4605 Lead School Counselor

Jera Hawn x 4614 Lead Teacher/Math Teacher Hannah Everhart x 4515 Math Teacher

Angela Griffey x 4616 English / Science Teacher Joni Russell x 4608 English Teacher Dee Mallory x 4617 Science Teacher Matt Stark x 4610 Social Studies Teacher

*You may reach any Davie County School employee through email by typing: last name first initial @davie.k12.nc.us.

For example, to contact Mrs. Lynch by email, type: lynchm@davie.k12.nc.us

Daily high school schedule

Monday A-day

Tuesday B-day

Wednesday A-day

Thursday B-day

Friday A-day

Breakfast 8:10 – 8:30 8:10 – 8:30 8:10 – 8:30 8:10 – 8:30 8:10 – 8:30

Yearlong Period 1 8:30–9:30Fr. Sem 8:30-9:30 So. Sem

8:30-9:30 Jr. Sem 2

8:30–9:30 Fr. Sem 8:30-9:30 Jr. Sem 1 8:30 – 9:30 Yrbk

8:30–9:30 Fr. Sem 8:30-9:30 So. Sem

8:30-9:30 Jr. Sem 2

8:30–9:30 Fr. Sem 8:30-9:30 Jr. Sem 1

8:30 – 9:30 Yrbk

8:30–9:30 Fr. Sem 8:30-9:30 So. Sem 8:30-9:30 Req. Jrs.

Block Period 2 9:30 – 10:55 9:30 – 10:55 9:30 – 10:55 9:30 – 10:55 9:30 – 10:55

Yearlong Period 3 10:55 – 11:55 10:55 – 11:55 10:55 – 11:55 10:55 – 11:55 10:55 – 11:55

Lunch 11:55 -12:25 11:55 -12:25 11:55 -12:25 11:55 -12:25 11:55-12:25

Block Period 4 12:25 – 1:50 12:25 – 1:50 12:25 – 1:50 12:25 – 1:50 12:25 – 1:50

Block Period 5 1:50 – 3:15 1:50 – 3:15 1:50 – 3:15 1:50 – 3:15 1:50 – 3:15

High school early release schedule for non-college days Period Time

Breakfast 8:10-8:30

1 8:30-9:30

2 9:30-10:45 4 10:45-12:00

Lunch 12:00-12:20 5 12:20-1:35

Please see the school calendar for specific information regarding shuttle bus times and locations of drop off and pick up on early release days.

Reporting periods

Progress Report: September 5 End of 1st quarter: October 8 Progress Report: November 14 End of 2nd quarter: December 19 Progress Report: February 5 End of 3rd quarter: March 16 Progress Report: April 20 End of 4th quarter: May 21

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Inclement weather

In the event of inclement weather, the superintendent may close or delay school (This is generally done by 6:00am via phone message and is also broadcast to local television media outlets). When Davie County Schools close or announce a delay, that announcement impacts Davie County Schools only. In other words, college classes may still be in session on that day even though high school classes have been delayed or cancelled. Students should periodically check the college website (www.davidsonccc.edu) and local television stations to determine if college classes are being held.

Visitors to school

Knowing who is in the building is an important safety issue. All visitors and parents must report to the main office upon arrival to school to sign in. They will be issued a visitor’s pass and will be directed to their destination. Before they leave campus, they must stop back in the office to sign out. Unauthorized visitors may be considered trespassing.

Signs, posters, and fliers

Signs, posters, and flyers may be posted or distributed with approval from administration. Once approved, these items should only be hung on bulletin boards and not taped to the doors or walls of the Gantt building.

Driver eligibility

To receive a driver’s permit, the student AND parent must come to the main office with: 1) Driver education certificate, 2) certified birth certificate, and 3) original social security card (not laminated). The school will then verify that your child is in adequate academic standing (passing at least 70% of the courses on the most recent report card) and issue a certificate. Reasons for the loss of student license: We are required by the State of North Carolina to report to DMV either of the following: 1) Failure to pass at least 70% of the credits students are scheduled for, 2) dropping out of school. For students who have not passed 70% of their scheduled credits, DMV will revoke their license; after a full semester of academics, the student’s progress will be re-evaluated with final grades. There is an appeal process that will be explained to you should you (or your student) lose their license. Also note, appeals are only accepted once and once an appeal has been granted you may not apply for additional appeals.

Medications

School personnel may not dispense any medications to students (including aspirin) without written permission from a doctor. Students who need to take medicine(s) at school must comply with School Board policy, complete the green medication form, and have it filed in the front office.

Unpaid fees Fines or fees owed for books, damages, lunch charges, etc. must be paid before receiving schedules, diplomas, transcripts, or before students are allowed to participate in graduation, prom, winter semi-formal, or any other extra-curricular activity.

College textbooks

DCECHS provides books for all college courses taken the first time. Students are responsible for returning college textbooks immediately following college exams, and for replacing any lost or damaged books. If a book has not been returned by the fifth day following the final class, the student will be billed for the missing textbook(s).

Dropped college courses

As a general rule, DCECHS students are not allowed to drop college courses. Should students be dropped at the instructor’s discretion without authorization from the DCECHS principal, the student and his/her family is responsible for the cost of the textbook(s).

College instructor sovereignty

In accordance with NC community college policy and long-held tradition of academic freedom, college instructors have absolute control over their classroom rules, their procedures, their teaching methods, and their grading. Also, college instructors are neither obligated nor expected to initiate communication with parents; students are

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enrolled with the expectation that they carry the same personal responsibility for their actions, learning, and their ultimate class success as the adult students who take college classes. Students are encouraged to advocate for themselves and seek information and assistance from all college instructors. While instructors will speak with parents, a better first step is to contact the college liaison to work together through any concerns and complete a FERPA form that may be found on the DCCC website www.davidsonccc.edu.

Summer school opportunities

DCCC usually has summer school offerings available to students. If students wish to take a summer class, they are responsible for paying the college tuition for that class. As long as the course falls within the DCECHS plan of study, we will cover the expense of the book. Should classes fall outside of the DCECHS plan of study, students are responsible for both tuition and textbook costs.

Attendance

Expectations

Attendance is critical for academic success especially in honors level classes and college courses. Attendance is taken for the school day; however, missing individual classes may jeopardize a student’s academic standing and overall success. School Board Policy 309 defines all attendance requirements for Davie County Schools.

Absences from class

In order to receive credit for a course, a student may not be absent for more than 4 days (lawful or unlawful) during a 9-week period. Making up work missed during an absence is the responsibility of the student. On the day of return, the student should speak to the teacher about completing missed work. Students are allowed no more than 5 days after their return to school to turn in missed work unless they have made other arrangements with each individual teacher. After 5 days, missed work will not be accepted and students will receive a 0 for those assignments.

Documentation of absences

Students are expected to bring a parent/guardian note after an absence, and any documentation related to the absence such as doctor/dentist note, funeral program, official court document, etc. Notes for absences must be turned in to the front office within 2 days. After 2 days, if a note has not been turned in, the absence will be coded as unlawful. Notes DO NOT REMOVE absences from a student’s record; they simply confirm whether the absence was lawful or unlawful. *Individual DCCC instructors establish attendance policies for their courses. Refer to the DCCC catalogue and the syllabus for each college course.*

Sign in/sign out procedure

DCECHS is a closed campus. For students to leave campus at any time during regular school hours they must have written permission from a parent or guardian, and be in good standing behaviorally and academically. All students are to sign in and out through the front office. Leaving campus without signing out and/or without written permission from a parent or guardian will lead to consequences at the principal’s discretion. Students arriving late or leaving early from school must be signed in/out at the office by a parent or guardian. Students driving themselves to school must bring a parent note if they are to leave campus for appointments during the school day.

If an upperclassman’s schedule ends before the normal 3:15 pm dismissal, s/he may sign out with parent permission as long as the Permission to Leave Campus form is on file. Sign out must be completed on a daily basis. This privilege may be rescinded by the principal at any time. *Parents/guardians should not expect DCECHS to relay messages unless there is an emergency. Please make arrangements in advance.

Academic Expectations

At the Early College we place special importance on rigor. The education students receive here goes above and beyond that of a traditional public education, and the education is unique in that students may receive up to 64 college credit hours and the honor of earning an Associate in Arts degree from an accredited college. These credits are transferable to UNC system colleges and universities across the state. It is in students’ best interest to maintain a C average or above at all times so their educational opportunities and goals remain within their reach.

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Should students encounter difficulty maintaining a C average, they are encouraged to seek assistance. Tutoring is available for both high school and college courses, and counselors and teachers are available to students whenever the need arises. In addition, students learn assertiveness skills early on in their education at Early College, and are taught to ask for the assistance they need. Teachers and counselors remain alert for signs of difficulty through grade reviews, student conferences, parent requests, and college liaison reports. However, it is also the student’s responsibility to take action if his/her academic progress is in jeopardy.

High school grading scale

Davie County Schools uses a 7-point scale to assess student work. A B C D F

93-100 85-92 77-84 70-76 Below 70

Honors List and Honor Roll

Honors List is computed and recognized at the end of each semester. Students in grades 11 – 13 with an unweighted GPA of 3.5 or higher may qualify for this award. Honor Roll is recognized at the end of each quarter. Students in grades 9 – 10 with A’s and B’s on their quarterly report cards may qualify for this award.

Final exams for high school

High school exams may last up to 4 hours and are administered at the end of each semester. All final exams whether EOCs or MSLs, count as 25% of the student’s final grade. Students are not admitted late to an exam, and they may not leave campus until all testing, school-wide, is completed for the day.

Final exams for DCCC

DCCC holds exams prior to high school exams. Their exam dates are located in the school calendar.

College readiness benchmarks Once any of the following benchmarks are met, students may be dually enrolled in college courses.

Test PLAN PSAT Accuplacer (NCCCS benchmarks)

English 15 49 86 Sentence Skills Or 166 combined Reading 17 50 80 Reading

Mathematics 19 50 Arithmetic Score of 7 on all 3 sections

Algebra Score of 7 on all 3 sections

In addition to diagnostic assessments, colleges may use the following SAT / ACT scores recommended by the testing companies as benchmarks for college readiness.

SAT ACT

English 500 English 18

Critical Reading 500 Reading 21

Mathematics 500 Mathematics 22

DCCC academic policy for Early College students

While all courses students take with DCCC are dual credit, counting for both college and high school, students have separate transcripts – one for the college, and one for the high school. When students fall below a 2.0 GPA on their college transcripts for one semester, they are placed on academic alert. Should they fall below a 2.0 GPA two semesters in a row, they are placed on academic probation. Upon three consecutive semesters falling below a 2.0 GPA, students are suspended from college classes for a full semester. In each case, students receive written notification, are required to meet with the Student Services Coordinator at the college, and are enrolled in Learning Lab for additional support.

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Learning lab procedure

Learning Lab is an assigned course on students’ schedules. Both locations and teachers are assigned to assist and monitor student workspace. We hope students will use the privilege of during-school-work-time to complete assignments and study with the additional resources being on campus provides. In order to maximize this opportunity for all students the following procedures are in place. Learning Lab expectations: Gather needed materials and complete errands before scheduled Learning Lab class begins. Gather laptop/desktop, calculator, sharpened pencils, or project supplies, use the restroom, make a quick phone call, return a book to the library, or any other errands. Please note that extra time is provided for these activities.

1. In the Learning Lab periods at the start of the week (Monday and/or Tuesday), students are to work independently and silently on assignments.

2. In the Learning Lab periods toward the end of the week (Wednesday, Thursday and/ or Friday), students may work collaboratively or independently. Students working collaboratively must be able to present evidence of productivity. It is entirely up to the monitor’s discretion to decide which groups may continue working together. If students have an assigned group project or study partner, they may benefit from planning their weekly schedule around this opportunity to work together.

3. Students are dismissed from learning lab at the times indicated below. Early dismissals and errand running are not allowed during Learning Lab class.

Period Learning Lab Time 2nd 9:45 – 10:50 3rd 11:00 – 11:50 4th 12:40 – 1: 45 5th 2:05 – 3:10

Seminar

In addition to NCDPI requirements, students at DCECHS must also pass four Seminar classes and complete four community projects to graduate. Seminar forms the basis of the school culture, encouraging relationships and personalization among students and between students and staff. Organization and time management skills, public speaking, communication, team-building, career and college exploration, and ACT/SAT preparation are just a few of the areas taught through seminar classes. Expectations for each grade level vary depending upon the developmental and academic needs of students.

Community Projects

The community project is part of the Seminar curriculum and a yearly Early College tradition for all students. It is intended to develop college ready skills such as citizenship, public speaking, critical thinking, creativity, and self-knowledge. Students serve the community for a minimum of twenty hours over the course of each school year. The community project benefits both students and the community at large, building relationships, making the community a better place, and advancing the mission of the Early College. Specific guidelines are distributed through Seminar classes. Parents along with their students are asked to read and sign these guidelines, noting their understanding of the requirements and the responsibilities for each student.

Extracurricular Activities

Clubs

Clubs are a valuable part of our overall school culture, are often student-initiated and sometimes student-led. At Early College, all clubs must fit into the overall vision/mission of preparing students for college, careers, and life. Students are responsible for transportation and costs associated with clubs and other extracurricular activities. Students participating in physical activity must submit a permission form and have a current physical on record with the school. Students must also have signed parental consent to attend any off-campus events with extracurricular groups.

DCEC currently sponsors the following clubs: Performing Arts Club Junior Civitan

Debate Team Book Club

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Technology Club Relay for Life

Field trips

Students are strongly encouraged to attend the school-sponsored college field trips during their first, second, and third years. Traditionally, freshmen visit two colleges in the western part of the state, sophomores visit two located in central NC, and juniors experience colleges located in the east and on the coast of NC. Chartered buses are hired to transport students, and groups spending a night stay in accommodations reserved and paid for by the school. Students are responsible for the cost of their food and any personal expenses. In the event that Early College is not able to pay the entire cost of field trips, the school will cover the portion possible and communicate with students and parents the amount for which they are responsible. *The school will offer assistance when students are unable to pay their portion of field trips. Assistance may be provided through fundraising opportunities and/or “scholarships.”

Winter semi-formal

Students and faculty alike enjoy the annual winter semi-formal, usually held in January. The SGA sponsors the dance and charges a minimal fee for tickets. There is always a theme, refreshments, music, dancing, and everyone has a wonderful time. For the last five years, the dance has been held at Bermuda Run, a lovely setting for a beautiful event.

Prom

Third, fourth, and fifth year students are invited to attend the DCECHS prom. No student attending the prom may have any outstanding debt. Students are welcome to bring guests from other schools. However, guest approval forms must be submitted to the principal at least two weeks prior to the date of the prom - no exceptions. All in attendance (except chaperones) must be under the age of twenty-one, and all tickets must be purchased in advance, as there are no sales at the door.

Ticket Costs Prices are per person

March 15th or before $35.00 Two weeks or less before date $40.00

Student Services

Comprehensive School Counseling program

The overall purpose of the counseling center at is to help all students develop effective interpersonal/social skills, reach their academic potential, determine their college and career goals, and to guide students in planning their coursework according to their individual future plans.

The counseling center provides students with comprehensive services including academic and college/career planning, individual and small group counseling/support, and classroom guidance. The counselors also work closely with the DCCC liaison and administrators to provide appropriate college course selection that fulfills both high school graduation and A.A. degree requirements. Services are designed to address developmental needs and focus on the demands of each grade level as students rise through the Early College. The school nurse, social worker, psychologist, and other resource professionals are available to us as needed. We share these staff with other schools in the county and rely upon them to assist with any concerns that arise.

Parent conferences

Communication between the school and home is strongly encouraged. We welcome the opportunity to meet and work cooperatively with the parents of our students. Counselors are available to assist with academic, social/emotional, and college questions or concerns. We are also willing to coordinate and/or attend conferences with teachers, students, and parents, as these meetings are often beneficial in supporting student success. We encourage parents to contact counselors throughout the day directly via phone or email. Should parents wish to talk with teachers, it is best to contact them after school dismisses so class is not interrupted.

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Scholarship, financial aid and testing information

Scholarships, summer programs, financial aid and testing information (PLAN/ACT, PSAT/SAT, Accuplacer, EOCs, MSLs) are also provided through the counseling center. Counselors review students’ plans of study regularly to make sure students are aware of their own coursework, transcripts, GPAs, and other records important for college entrance. Counselors also work individually and through Seminar classes as students explore their major areas of interest and consider colleges that suit their goals.

Academic Advising

DCECHS Graduation Requirements

Students at Early College are dually enrolled in both high school and college working on their diploma and college degree at the same time. For this reason, we encourage everyone to remember that students are high school students first. College credits and the A.A. degree cannot be awarded without the high school diploma. To receive a high school diploma from DCECHS a student must earn the following twenty-eight units.

Courses Required

State Requirements Local Requirements

English

4 - including HS English I, II, III, & IV (HS English III & IV are fulfilled by college ENG 111, 113, 233, & 243 )

Mathematics

4 - including HS Integrated I, II, III, and a dual enrollment college math course

Science

3 - including HS Earth & Environmental Science, HS Physical Science, HS Biology (college BIO 110 satisfies the HS Biology requirement)

Social Studies

4 - including HS Civics & Economics, HS American History I, HS American History II, and World History (HS World History is satisfied by college HIS 111 & HIS 112)

Health / P.E.

1 - fulfilled by a college PED course and college HEA 110

Seminar

2.5 - including Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, and Senior Seminar HS classes (credits earned through a total of 4 HS classes)

Community Projects

Minimum of 20 approved community -based service hours each year for 4 years

College Readiness Benchmarks

Because many of the HS credits are earned through dual enrollment opportunities with the college, students must show proficiency on a college Computer Skills Placement test and meet Accuplacer benchmarks prior to being admitted into college courses.

Electives 6 (arts recommended but not required) 3.5

Total Credits 22 28

NOTE: The requirements listed above are for the high school diploma only and do not include all the college course requirements needed to earn an Associate’s degree through Davidson County Community College.

Promotion Standards: Students must pass the following number of courses for high school promotion.

10th 11th 12th Graduation

6 12 20 28

Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree requirements

DCECHS students have the opportunity to earn an A.A. in conjunction with and upon completion of the high school diploma. The A.A. requires 64 semester hours of college credit. Students begin taking college courses in

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year one and each year the number of college courses increases. Counselors regularly review plans of study with students throughout their education at the Early College to insure timely graduation. Parents are welcome to request meetings to review plans of study as well.

General Student Policies

Guiding principles

1. Demonstrate respect for both people and resources. 2. Distractions and disruptions interfering with learning are unacceptable. 3. Students are responsible for maintaining order, cleanliness, and appropriate noise levels. 4. Students have “freedom with responsibility.”

Honor Code

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner conducive to promoting their own success and maintaining a high standard of academic integrity. For these reasons, cheating and/or plagiarism are not allowed under any circumstances. Students participating in such behaviors may not only face classroom consequences but could also face administrative consequences from both Early College and DCCC.

Food and drink policy

Food and drinks (other than water) are not allowed within the educational setting. However, individual high school teachers may plan academic activities that celebrate diversity and explore foods from other cultures. During these units of study, food related to the lesson(s) is allowed in the classroom, with the exception of computer or science labs.

Dress code

Students are expected to dress maturely, neatly, and in a clean manner. Dress should be both comfortable and appropriate for the learning environment, and should not be revealing or distracting to others. If a student’s dress is in question, “appropriate” is decided by the principal or other school staff.

Clothing for both males and females must meet the following guidelines: All clothing, skirts, shorts, and dresses are considered an appropriate length when falling at mid-thigh or

lower, and when students can move comfortably without needing to compensate their movements for their attire. A distance no greater than the length of a dollar bill should exist between the top your knee and the bottom of your clothing.

Pants, shorts, and skirts must be secured at the waist. There may be no holes in clothing above mid-thigh. At no time are undergarments to be visible. No tank tops or spaghetti straps are allowed. Leggings may be worn; however, shirts or skirts must be worn over leggings and follow dress code

length for skirts/shorts. Shoes must be worn at all times, must be a comfortable height (no more than 3 inches), and no shoes with

wheels are allowed. No hats, bandanas, sunglasses, or head coverings of any kind may be worn in the building. No bare midriffs are allowed. A neckline is considered appropriate when it is not revealing or distracting. Clothing may not have any reference to tobacco products, alcohol products, or narcotics. Pajamas, pajama pants, slippers, bedroom shoes, and other nighttime attire are not permitted.

All students with dress code violations are required to correct the violation by changing clothes (or calling home for a change) and are not permitted back to class until they have done so. After two corrections, a student violating dress code will be required to stay for after school detention. They also may receive additional administrative consequences, especially for continued repeat violations.

Bus rules and expectations When transporting students, safety is our main goal. Riding a school bus is a privilege, and the Early College expects students to rise above typical rules needed to manage bus behavior. Because our students ride Davie

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High School buses, students must follow rules established by DHS administrators and bus drivers. Misconduct may result in consequences according to Davie High policies (listed below). In addition, students may face additional sanctions from Early College administration.

General DHS bus rules: Students may not: Remain seated properly at all times Yell, verbally abuse anyone, or use profanity Do not switch seats during the route Throw paper or other objects on or out of the bus Arrive on time at the scheduled bus stop Horseplay, push, trip, pick at, or slap other students Keep all body part inside the bus at all times Refuse to share your seat Obey all requests of the driver Ride another bus without note signed by parent and

principal Avoid distracting the driver in any way Get off the bus at stops other than their bus stop without a

parent note signed by principal No eating, drinking, or use of tobacco products Ride an ASAP bus without a pass from a teacher

1st offense: consequence may range from a warning to a 3 day suspension off the bus 2nd offense: consequence may range from a 3-5 day suspension off the bus 3rd offense: consequence may range from a 5-10 day suspension from the bus 4th offense: student may be suspended from the bus for the remainder of the school year

Cell phone use

As a general rule, cell phones are to be turned off and put away during class time, including Learning Lab, unless specific permission is given by the teacher. Cell phones may be used at breakfast, between classes, and during lunch, but not at all during class time. Cell phones used outside these specified times will be confiscated by staff and held for parent pick up.

Personal electronic devices

Students should keep any electronic devices in a secure place during the school day to prevent loss or theft, as these items are rarely recovered. DCECHS assumes no responsibility for the loss, theft, or damage to any such device. Students are allowed to have personal electronic devices such as iPods, laptops, video games, etc., but are expected to adhere to the following guidelines:

1. MP3 players, iPods, etc. may be used during independent work if approved by the teacher and if the music does not become a distraction.

2. Video games are not allowed during instructional time or during required learning lab. Any electronics used inappropriately or at inappropriate times may be confiscated.

Internet use

All students using school computers must have on file an Acceptable Use Policy signed by the student and parent. Parents must complete a Student Work/Photograph Card form that gives the school permission to publish student work and or photos. Students receive the policy and form at the beginning of the year. Because all students depend on the school’s technology to assist with learning, personal integrity is important. Technology privileges may be taken away from students for certain types of discipline offenses or any type of misuse of the equipment.

Lunch Faculty and staff are eager to provide structure to what may seem to be an overwhelmingly “open” student day. Because we want to ensure the success of every student we serve, and gradually develop individual autonomy, we scaffold opportunities for choice on the campus as a whole; an assigned lunch area is one way we do this. Students are expected to eat in the areas designated by the Early College.

Freshmen and sophomores may eat lunch in the Gantt building or at the picnic tables on the patio of the Gantt; they may not eat in any of the DCCC buildings.

Juniors may eat in the areas listed above as well as in areas designated for eating by DCCC.

Seniors may eat in any of the areas listed above, and are extended the privilege of leaving campus for lunch. To leave campus for lunch, a senior MUST:

o have a parent permission form on file in the front office,

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o be in good academic standing – hold Cs in all courses based on the most recent report card, and o be in good behavioral standing – with no infractions or disciplinary consequences.

Tobacco

In support of the school board’s commitments as well as state and federal law, students are prohibited from using or possessing any tobacco product 1) in any school building, on the school campus, and in or on any other property owned by the school board, including school vehicles; 2) at any school related activity, including athletic or extra-curricular events; 3) at any time when a student is subject to the supervision of school personnel, including school trips. Infractions of this law result in the confiscation of the tobacco product(s) and/or paraphernalia and may involve additional sanctions deemed appropriate by the school principal. Refusal to relinquish these products to the principal will result in automatic suspension and jeopardize student academic standing at Early College.

Drugs, weapons, alcohol The possession, use, or distribution of any of these items on campus is forbidden. The consequences for infractions range from up to 10 days of out-of-school suspension with a report to DCCC and a report to law enforcement, to a recommendation to the superintendent for long-term suspension and possible removal from the Early College setting.

Consequences A good guiding principle for all student behavior is to “be where you are supposed to be, at the time you are supposed to be there, doing what you are supposed to be doing.” Not knowing about a rule or a consequence does not serve as an excuse for its abuse or violation.

The information listed below is designed as a general guide and is not an all-inclusive list; consequences may vary depending on each individual situation. It is the responsibility of every student and parent to be aware of the expectations of the Early College, and the consequences students may face if those expectations are not met. Davie County Schools publishes a separate Code of Conduct which will be made available to parents during the first part of the school year. In addition, DCCC has its own policies regarding student behavior; these may be found in the college catalogue.

Club membership/participation Driver’s Ed training Choice of lunch area (upperclassmen)

Attendance at prom Graduation ceremony Attendance at school events

Permission to leave campus (upperclassmen)

Participation in Variety Show and other Drama Club productions

Autonomy regarding use of time between classes

Writing assignment: This could include anything from a letter of apology to an essay about a topic related to the student infraction at administration’s recommendation and approval.

Lunch detention: Students serving lunch detention will eat in an assigned area away from their peers.

Work detail: During work detail, students will be assigned various types of custodial type tasks around campus. The number of hours assigned is determined by the severity of the offense.

After-school detention: ASD will be held each Tuesday and Thursday after school from 3:15-4:15. Students may read, or work on school assignments, but they must be busy. A late bus leaves Davie High School at 4:30, and students who need to ride that bus following ASD may request a pass from the principal of Early College.

Administrative conference: A conference with the principal, student, parent, and any other staff member, to create a plan for moving forward in a more positive direction.

Academic and/or disciplinary contract: When behavioral or academic expectations are not being met, a contract tailored to the student’s needs may be developed.

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Out-of-school suspension: OSS is used as a consequence for more serious offenses or continual offenses. Students suspended from school are allowed to serve their suspension at Central Davie Academy at the recommendation of the Early College principal. High school teachers send work to CDA, however, college instructors are not likely to do so. These dates count as absences in college classes thereby placing students in jeopardy regarding their ability to successfully complete classes missed. A student suspended from school may not be on campus or attend any school activity on or off campus during the entire term of suspension.

Report to DCCC: Whenever the safety of others or student honor or ethics comes in to question, the principal will report the incidents to the community college. DCCC will then determine its own sanctions for such actions.

Report to law enforcement: As a public school, we are required by law to report many types of incidents to law enforcement. Once a report is made, a student may be subject to more and separate sanctions (and possible charges) than those listed above.

High School Graduation Policies and Procedures

High school transcripts

Students may request copies of their transcripts using the forms provided through the counseling center. Forms may be picked up and returned in the counseling center.

Colleges require both high school and college transcripts. DCCC has policies regarding transcript requests, and it is the student’s responsibility to contact them and make requests as needed.

Valedictorian and salutatorian selection

The valedictorian is the student with the highest cumulative, weighted grade point average in his or her class. The salutatorian holds the second highest cumulative, weighted grade point average. Both awards are based on the rank reported at the close of 1st semester (after fall semester grades have been computed). Award status does not take into account the students’ final semester; however, poor student performance during the last semester could be grounds for rescinding the award.

Selection of student speakers for graduation

The valedictorian and salutatorian are offered the opportunity to speak, and students may vote on additional speakers to represent their class. Speakers must prepare speeches ahead of time and present them in written form to the principal for approval the week prior to graduation. Student addresses should be kept at 3-5 minutes.

Attendance at required activities

Vacations or special trips should not be scheduled during the week before graduation. Students are required to attend graduation dress rehearsal in order to walk across the stage during the actual ceremony.

Caps and gowns

Graduation caps and gowns are generally rented from Herff Jones who visits the school in late fall to take orders. Caps and gowns arrive at the school and are distributed a few weeks prior to graduation. Rented caps and gowns are to be returned immediately after the graduation exercises, and should be in good condition at that time.

Appropriate graduation attire

Girls should wear dress or skirt/top ensemble with a neckline that does not show above the gown and a hemline that does not show below the gown, and dark dress shoes or sandals. Boys should wear dark dress pants, white dress shirt, dark tie, and dark dress shoes.

Expenses

The school purchases: Diplomas and covers for students to keep Honor cords for students with 3.5 unweighted GPA for students to wear Other expenses associated with the ceremony

Students/parents are asked to pay for: Cap and gown rental and/or purchase Announcements, pictures, and other optional mementos

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Appropriate attire listed in the section above

Seating at graduation ceremony

Graduation is held at the Brock Performing Arts Center in downtown Mocksville. The Brock auditorium has limited seating, therefore, the number of tickets allowed per graduate is limited. Students usually receive 9 or 10 tickets depending on the number of graduates attending the ceremony.

Senior class reminders

Senior trip

Seniors and parents who wish to plan trips with other seniors are solely responsible for the planning of that trip. School faculty do not plan, supervise, or chaperone.

Baccalaureate service

Baccalaureate is an optional religious ceremony held separate from school facilities, often in a church. Seniors are responsible for planning the Baccalaureate service prior to graduation. The school may publicize the event, but because of its religious nature, school faculty and staff may not plan, supervise, or participate in the service itself. Faculty and staff may attend if they wish to do so.

Senior class president

Alumni are responsible for planning their own activities after graduation. The school does not plan any activities, class reunions, parties, etc. The school recommends that the senior class elect a person to oversee the planning of these events.

Senior gift

Any money collected from seniors as a gift for the school or other purposes is kept in a school account. Seniors may make suggestions or requests to the principal for the money to be spent in a specified way, but the final decision will be made by the principal.

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DCECHS Student Agreement Student Agreement: Please initial to the left of each statement and sign below.

I realize that being admitted to DCECHS is a chance to extend my educational opportunities for success. By signing below, my parents and I understand that I am committing to at least one year of attendance at DCECHS. After one year, requests for reassignment to Davie High School must be approved by principals at the Early College and Davie High, and the superintendent of Davie County Schools.

I understand that this is an adult educational setting and, as such, my behavior must be conducive to learning without disruption. I agree to act as a young adult while using these facilities, and to abide by the rules and regulations established by both DCECHS and DCCC.

I understand that daily attendance is essential for academic success. I agree to go above and beyond minimal attendance policies in both high school and college classes, and to be present whenever classes are in session.

I understand that maintaining a cumulative college program GPA of 2.0 is required by DCCC in order for me to earn an Associate’s degree, and passing grades in all classes are important. I also understand that courses with a grade below a C on the college transcript will not transfer to other institutions of higher learning. Therefore, I agree to maintain grades of C or above in all my classes, both high school and college.

I understand that the successful completion of a seminar course and a community project each year is required of all Early College students, and I agree to participate fully in all aspects of the classes and approved projects.

Release of Information: I agree as a DCECHS student, regardless of my age, that DCCC may release information regarding my enrollment, academic progress, discipline matters, or attendance to my parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Please see the DCCC Student Handbook or the Student Information section of the DCCC website for more information regarding student rights and disclosure of information under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

I understand that the admission decisions made by the Early College are final.

_____________________________________________________________________________________ Student Signature Date

Parent Agreement: Please initial to the left of each statement and sign below.

Authorization to Disclose: By signing below, we recognize that, because DCECHS students are dually enrolled (taking college courses that meet high school requirements as well), Davie County Schools and DCCC must share student information with one another. We authorize disclosure of pertinent information, including but not limited to educational plans, individual accommodations, test scores, and grades.

I have reviewed the above with my child. I understand and agree to uphold the academic and behavioral expectations specified in the Student Agreement.

_____________________________________________________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature Date