Handbook

INDEX (Topics in order of presentation)
Mission and Vision
The School Board Members
The Handbook
Parent Pledge
Student Honor Code
Statement of Character
School Verse
Verse for 2015-2016
Goals and Objectives for 2015-2016
School Colors and Mascot
Course Content and Programs
Community Service
Grading System
Daily Schedule
Attendance
Make-up Work
Homework
School Supplies
Uniform and Dress Code
Medication
Finances
Withdrawals
Computer Use
Discipline and Conduct
Disciplinary Process
School Expectations
Disciplinary Chart


MISSION AND VISION

The Mary E. Albury High School exists to create well-rounded leaders in our communities by providing our youth with an exceptional education rich in the liberal arts, vocational programs, and our strong Christian heritage.

Our purpose is to provide a safe, nurturing, environment for all students; promote personal growth (e.g. self-discipline, self-esteem, and self-knowledge) and leadership skills; foster an educational environment that promotes moral and social values, such as responsibility, respect for others, and good citizenship; challenge students with a fine Christian education and community involvement programs; encourage students to strive for academic excellence; extend learning beyond the classroom through vocational programs that expose the students to the rich cultural and historical resources available in our community; encourage strong parental and community involvement in the life of the children and the school; and foster Abaco’s business growth and new business opportunities through educational and vocational initiatives.


THE SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS

Joanne Sands, Director
Rebekah Roberts, Treasurer
Marsha Cruz, Principal


THE HANDBOOK

This handbook is your guide to a successful, rewarding educational career at Mary E. Albury High School. You are now a member of this community, and we are happy to have you here with us. We look forward to all students becoming happy, successful citizens here.

We require that you read this handbook thoroughly and follow it closely. Although not exhaustive and all-inclusive, it does serve as an adequate guide and we expect all students to follow it.


PARENT PLEDGE

I, who have the responsibility to “train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6), recognize that the standards for this training are set forth in God’s Word, the Holy Bible.
Knowing also that this training comes by what children learn both at home and school, I pledge to avoid any obvious contradictions in our home by upholding, and never teaching against, the lessons in Godly morality taught at Mary E. Albury High School.

I hereby invest authority in the school to discipline my child as necessary. I further agree that I will cooperate and discipline my child in the home, as needed.
I pledge to assume the responsibility for my child’s education by supervising assigned homework, being an encourager, and initiating regular contact with my child’s teacher.

I give permission for my child to participate in field trips considered part of the normal educational process.

I understand that assessments will be made to cover damage to school property (including breakage of windows, abuse of books, etc.).

I, as a parent of the student, do sincerely give my pledge to all items stated above. I understand that if my child breaks the MEAHS Student Honor Code my child may be dismissed or expelled from school or asked not to return the following year if my child is out of harmony with the Student Honor Code, the spirit, or the policies of the school whether on or off property as determined at the sole discretion of the administration. Readmission considerations following dismissal will be determined on a case by case basis.


STUDENT HONOR CODE

The Mary E. Albury High School student honor code is supported by the Word of God, the Holy Bible. Because I want to be a person of integrity and honorable character, and I want to be a member of the Mary E. Albury High School community, I will choose to model my life, both on and off campus, after the example of Jesus Christ.

I make a personal commitment to:

• Cooperate respectfully with those in authority. Hebrews 13:17

• Strive for excellence. I Corinthians 10:31, 32, Col. 3:23-24

• Seek to build relationships with people of high moral character. I Corinthians 15:33, Proverbs 13:20

• Care for and respect others and their property. Philippians 2:3-4

• Be truthful, trustworthy, and appropriate in my words and actions. Proverbs 4:24-27, Philippians 4:8

• Be pure and upright in my relationships, not involving myself in sexual misconduct. I Corinthians 6:18, Romans 13:12-14, Romans 1:24-28, Leviticus 18:21-22, Genesis 2:24, I Corinthians 6:9, I Thessalonians 4:1-8, Hebrews 13:4

• Choose modes of entertainment that are Christ honoring, avoiding the appearance of evil. Philippians 1:27, Ephesians 5:3-4

• Refrain from any form of cheating. Proverbs 11:1

• Totally abstain from the use or possession of tobacco, drugs, or alcohol. I Corinthians 6:19-20, Romans 13:1-2

On my word of honor, I will respect the MEAHS Student Honor Code and I will actively work to uphold its high standards. I shall do my best to be a good citizen of the Mary E. Albury High School. I realize that I may be dismissed or expelled from school or asked not to return if I am out of harmony with the Student Honor Code, the spirit, or the policies of the school whether on or off property as determined at the sole discretion of the administration. Readmission considerations following dismissal will be determined on a case by case basis.


STATEMENT OF CHARACTER

Mary E. Albury High School perceives character as the personal commitment to all that is good. This commitment should be constantly displayed. In all aspects of life at the Mary E. Albury High School, we attempt to nurture and promote the development of sound character. The elements of sound character that the school has identified as central to a person’s life and our life as a school and country are as follows:

Christianity This means the acceptance of the Mary E. Albury High School as a Christian school that has, central to its belief, the fact that Jesus Christ is Lord. The associated Christian qualities and the adherence to a Christian lifestyle are therefore expected to be demonstrated.

Commitment Dedication to all responsibilities and duties is expected. Such should be done with enthusiasm and to the best of one’s ability.

Respect involves treating oneself and others with dignity. This includes the acceptance, even the celebration of our differences. This respect should be rendered to members of the wider community.

Responsibility includes fulfilling our obligations to each other, to the school and country, as well as taking the initiative when we encounter a problem that needs to be solved. Taking responsibility often requires leadership and courage.

Honesty requires that we be truthful both in our academic work and our personal lives. Truthfulness includes openness and sincerity, which are crucial for building individual relationships and a community of trust, whether at school or elsewhere.
Integrity means being whole. We must each work toward self-knowledge and self awareness. The positive beliefs and values that result should be reflected in our behavior. As we nurture integrity, we must nurture the ability to stand up for what is right.
Compassion means to have a true understanding of, and sympathy for, the condition and needs of others.
Generosity involves helping others at the Mary E. Albury High School and elsewhere. It is a natural outgrowth of compassion and refers to a willingness to give where there is need.
Fairness means to treat all people in a non-prejudicial way. All persons should be given equal consideration and opportunities.
Loyalty is an essential precursor to success and for any harmonious relationship. We expect all who teach, learn, work and play at The Mary E. Albury High School to demonstrate steadfast allegiance to each other, to our school and to our country.
Good Manners and courtesy are integral parts of an educated person. These should be constantly displayed in the speech and behavior of all members of the school body.


SCHOOL VERSE

“But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.”
2 Peter 1: 5-7


VERSE FOR 2015-2016

Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper.” 
Proverbs 13:4


THEME FOR 2015-2016

Working hard to bring out the best in myself and others.


GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR 2015-2016

It is our goal this year to gain excellence through attitude and parent support. A child’s success depends greatly on his/her self-image of his/herself and whether or not s/he believes that s/he can achieve. Success if also fostered in the support that a child receives from his/her parents.

To achieve this goal we will:

- Provide opportunities for students to try a variety of activities.
- Provide opportunities for each child to succeed
- Make accommodations where necessary for students with learning disabilities
- Encourage students not to say “I can’t,” but instead, “I will try”
- Reinforce the positive efforts and achievements of all students verbally and through a slip system (merits,   blessing slips, emergency slips)
- Teach students to have pride in their work by only accepting the best that s/he can do
- Teachers being available for students that need extra guidance
- Teachers using positive teaching and disciplinary methods (i.e. don’t say what bad behavior not to do, but what good behavior to display)
- Provide opportunities for parents to become involved (e.g. use parents as substitutes, volunteers, etc.)
- Send home monthly newsletters to keep the parent’s informed and interested


SCHOOL COLORS AND MASCOT

Colors: Jade, khaki, navy blue

Mascot: Portuguese of Man-O-War


COURSE CONTENT AND PROGRAMS

The Bahamian Government’s external examinations play a significant role in our course content. The Bahamas Junior Certificate (BJC) is taken at the end of grade 9 and is the culmination of the coursework for grades 7, 8, and 9. Students will also be required to participate in a community service program.

Grades 7, 8, 9

English Language*,  Literature*, Social Studies*,  Mathematics*,  Religion*,  Computer Skills, General Science*,  Art/Drama,  Physical Education,  Health Science*,  Spanish,  Community Service, Home Economics

*BJC examination subjects.

All courses/programs are mandatory.

Grades 10, 11, 12
Language Arts*, History*, Mathematics*, Religious Knowledge*, Combined Science*, Biology*, Spanish*, Literature*, Community Service, Art/Drama, Home Economics, Personal Finance; Option: Cooperative Work Experience

*BGCSE examination subjects.

All courses/programs are mandatory.


COMMUNITY SERVICE

Each student in the school is required to complete a minimum of 24 hours of community service (not including hours served to immediate family) each year.  These hours are required for grade promotion.


GRADING SYSTEM

Students receive two official reports per year, at the end of the Fall Semester in December, and at the end of the Spring Semester in June. A Mid-Semester Report Card will also be sent home each semester. Report cards will show achievement grades, as well as effort and conduct grades. The final achievement grade is comprised of 60% class work, class tests, homework, etc. and 40% final exam score. Grades and scores are as follows:

ACHIEVEMENT GRADES

Grade   ~   Percentage Range   ~   Grade Point Value

A+    ~   100%   ~   4.00

A      ~   93% - 99%   ~   4.00

A-   ~   90% - 92%   ~   3.67

B+   ~   87% - 89%   ~   3.33

B     ~   83% - 86%   ~   3.00

B-   ~   80% - 82%   ~   2.67

C+  ~   77% - 79%   ~   2.33

C    ~   73% - 76%   ~   2.00

C-   ~   70% - 72%   ~   1.67

D+  ~   67% - 69%   ~   1.33

D    ~   63% - 66%    ~  1.00

D-   ~  60% - 60%    ~  0.67

F     ~  0% - 59%      ~  0.00


EFFORT AND CONDUCT GRADES

Grade ~ Meaning

1 ~ Outstanding

2  ~ Above Average

3 ~ Average

4 ~ Below Average

5 ~ Poor

In order to earn a place on the Honor Roll, a student must receive a GPA between 3.00 and 3.67. The eligibility requirement for the prestigious Principal’s List is a grade point average, GPA, of 4.00. In order for a student to be promoted to the next grade or to graduate, a minimum GPA of 1.67 is required.

Students are encouraged to check with their teachers periodically so that they are informed of their standing in each subject.


DAILY SCHEDULE

8:30 a.m. Door opens, students arrive
8:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Homeroom and Devotions
9:00 a.m. - 9:40 a.m. Period 1
9:40 a.m. - 10:20 a.m. Period 2
10:20 a.m. - 10:40 a.m. Break
10:40 a.m. - 11:20 a.m. Period 3
11:20 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Period 4
12:00 p.m. - 12:40 p.m. Lunch
12:40 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Homeroom and SSR
1:00 p.m. - 1:40 p.m. Period 5
1:40 p.m. - 2:20 p.m. Period 6
2:20 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Period 7
3:00 p.m. Students dismissed
3:30 p.m. Doors closed


ATTENDANCE

When a student is absent, a note from home must be brought to the teacher giving the reason for the absence. If the note is not turned in the next day, a reminder will be given to the student, and the note must be turned in to the teacher the next day. If the note is not turned in within the two days, the absence will be considered unexcused and the student will not be allowed to make-up the missed assignments.

If a student knows ahead of time that an absence will occur, please bring a note to the teacher at least one day prior to the absence but at least the morning of the absence.

If a student arrives at school late or will be leaving school early the student must present a note to the teacher upon arrival at school.


MAKE-UP WORK

1. For a simple illness of a day or two, the student needs to contact the teacher for missed work and make arrangements to make it up. (Usually one day plus the time missed.)

2. For extended illness of several days, the teachers will work with the student and parent on the time that work should be made up. (Usually one day plus the time missed.)

3. When the student returns the student is expected to keep up with what is happening in the classes at the time.


HOMEWORK

Homework has been identified as a vital factor in increasing student achievement in most national reports on education. Parents/guardians are urged to help assure that all out-of-class work is completed. When a student is absent, s/he will receive one additional day to make up work and/or tests.


SCHOOL SUPPLIES

Students should have all their supplies ready for the first day of school. Some supplies will need to be replenished, as necessary, throughout the year. When a student uses up a supply item during the year, the parents of the student must re-supply the item. Items that are lost or missing need to be re-supplied immediately. It is the student and the parents’ direct responsibility to monitor the student’s use of consumable school supplies.

The following is a list, though not exhaustive, of supplies all students will need.

9 - 1’ 3-ring binders, Scissors, Loose-leaf paper, Scientific calculator, 1 – Spiral-bound notebook, Geometry set, 2 - black or blue pens, Graphing paper, 2 – pencils, Bible, Pencil sharpener, Weekly planner, Eraser, Colored pencils, White-out, 12” Ruler, School glue, Highlighters, USB storage device (jumpdrive)


UNIFORM AND DRESS CODE

Girls
• Khaki skort/ skirt (knee length)
• Khaki shorts (Bermuda style/knee length)
• Khaki pants
• MEAHS jade knit shirt
• Brown leather belt
• Brown leather shoes
• White socks (with minimal trim or logo)
• MEAHS navy blue jacket, or any navy blue sweater

Boys
• Khaki shorts (knee length)
• Khaki pants
• MEAHS jade knit shirt
• Brown leather belt
• Brown leather shoes
• White socks (with minimal trim or logo)
• MEAHS navy blue jacket, or any navy blue sweater

Students must wear clean, neat, and snug-fitting, closed-in shoes (with minimal trim or logo). Athletic shoes must be of the lace-up or velcro variety. The athletic shoe cannot contain roller skates, or any other devices. All shoes must be a full back shoe with a completely closed front. Shoes must have a complete sole, and must be worn with socks.

P.E. uniform
• MEAHS jade T-shirt
• MEAHS navy blue sport shorts
• Athletic shoes, any color

Wearing the Uniform

The following regulations apply to the regular school uniform:

1. All students must wear the uniform the entire year.

2. Skort length must be no shorter than 3” above the knee. Shorts must be knee length. If the length and fit of the skort or shorts is inappropriate, students will be required to fix it or be sent home.

3. Uniforms must be kept neat and clean with no ripped shirts, skorts, or pants.

4. All but the top button on the knit shirt must be buttoned.

5. Shirts must be neatly tucked in at the waist at all times.

6. Hats are permitted in P.E. class only and must be removed in the classroom.

7. Pants and shorts must be worn properly, with a belt at the natural waist.

8. Students may wear a reasonable amount of conservative jewelry. Boys may wear a watch, a single bracelet, and a single necklace under the collar of their shirts, moderate in size. Boys may not wear earrings. Girls may wear a watch, a single bracelet, a single necklace, and single pair of small earrings (no more than ¼” below the earlobe).

9. No make-up, false-nails, or nail polish is to be worn.

10. Tattoos, permanent or temporary, and body piercings are prohibited.


Uniform Excuses

Any uniform excuses must be sent with the student to the teacher. Verbal excuses are not accepted. Non-complying students will be sent home until the infraction is corrected. Flip flops, beach shoes, and sandals are not to be worn as a part of the uniform. If a student has a blister or a medical condition that prevents them from wearing a loose-fitting sneaker the student may wear a sandal or flip-flop, if accompanied by a note from the parent.

Hair Code

Boys’ hair:

1. Must not cover the eyes.
2. Must be neat, of a professional style.
3. Must be neatly combed at all times.
4. Coloring of the hair is allowed, but not a color that differs greatly from a natural color.

Girls’ hair:

1. Bangs must not cover eyebrows or eyes.
2. Must be of consistent length.
3. Must be neatly combed at all times.
4. Coloring of the hair is allowed, but not a color that differs greatly from a natural color.

Guidelines for Dress-Down Days

Clothing which exposes private body parts or underwear is not acceptable. Bare feet, bare chests, bare stomachs, bathing suits, halter tops, tank tops, short shorts and see-through clothing are not acceptable.

Any attire cannot be any shorter than mid-thigh. Shirts, blouses, tops cannot show any midriff/stomach. Any attire/clothing which brings undue attention (too tight, too "skimpy", too revealing), and in doing so, could disrupt the educational process, is prohibited.

Clothing, buttons, jewelry, or arm bands with letters, pictures, or insignias that are profane, vulgar, or advertise drugs, alcohol, or tobacco are not acceptable.


MEDICATION

Students who need to take prescription or over-the-counter medication in school must bring the medication with a note from the parent. The teacher will keep the medication and administer it to the student, except cough drops and asthma inhalers. The school will not administer any medication without the written consent of a parent.


FINANCES

The following is the tuition schedule for the 2015/16 school year.

Grades 7-9 The total cost of tuition for grades 7-9 for the 2015/16 school year is $4250, which can be paid over 10 payments of $425 due by the dates given below.

Tuition Payment Amount  -  Due By  -  Payment #

$425.00  -  August 1st  -  1

$425.00  -  September 25th  -  2

$425.00  -  October 25th  -  3

$425.00  -  November 25th  -  4

$425.00  -  December 25th  -  5

$425.00  -  January 25th  -  6

$425.00  -  February 25th  -  7

$425.00  -  March 25th  -  8

$425.00  -  April 25th  -  9

$425.00  -  May 25th  -  10

$775.00 (tuition + book fee) *subject to change  -  June 25th  -  1 for 2016/17


Grades 10-11   The total cost of tuition for grades 10-12 for the 2015/16 school year is $4500, which can be paid over 10 payments of $450 due by the dates given below.


Tuition Payment Amount - Due By - Payment #

$450.00 - August 1st - 1

$450.00 - September 25th - 2

$450.00 - October 25th - 3

$450.00 - November 25th - 4

$450.00 - December 25th - 5

$450.00 - January 25th - 6

$450.00 - February 25th - 7

$450.00 - March 25th - 8

$450.00 - April 25th - 9

$450.00 - May 25th - 10

$8000.00 (tuition + book fee) *subject to change - June 25th - 1 for 2016/17

EACH payment is due by the 25th of each month, as stated in the payment schedules above.  Please ensure that school fees are paid on time.  Late payments must paid on or before the 10th of the next month to prevent your student from being sent home and an interruption in his/her education occurring.  In the case of strenuous circumstances, please speak with the administrator.

MEAHS families with any outstanding balance on their account for tuition, will not be allowed to sit final exams.


WITHDRAWALS

When a student withdraws from MEAHS, whether at the request of the parent or MEAHS, the parent’s financial responsibility is as stated in the Finance section. Attendance for any part of a month (even one day) is considered the same as the entire month. When a student withdraws, we send his/her records to the receiving school only. The receiving school must request the student’s records, not the parent.


COMPUTER USE - Terms and Conditions

1. Computers are provided to be used as tools in learning. Access to network services is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Access is a privilege – not a right. Maintaining this privilege requires responsibility. Inappropriate use will result in cancellation of computer privileges and/or further discipline from the school. Students are not permitted to access chat rooms, game pages, and personal pages (i.e., MySpace, YouTube, hotmail, etc.)

2. Users are not permitted to transmit, receive, submit, or publish any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, offensive, or illegal material. Nothing should be done or said to degrade the reputation of MEAHS. Use appropriate language: remember that you are not only representing yourself but also MEAHS on a publicly accessible system.

3. Physical or electronic tampering with computer resources is not permitted. Damaging computers, computer systems, or computer networks will result in cancellation of privileges, school disciplinary measures, and replacement/repair costs.

4. Users must respect all copyright laws that protect software owners, artists, and writers. Plagiarism in any form is unacceptable.

5. Privacy: Do not reveal the home address or personal phone number of any student, faculty member, or employee (including you). This can result in unwanted intrusions of privacy.

6. Do not use anyone’s password but your own. Attempts to log on as anyone other than you may result in loss of privileges.

7. Security is a high priority; therefore if you think you can identify a security problem in the school’s system, you must notify a teacher or administrator. Do not demonstrate the problem to others.

8. All communication and information accessible via computer resources shall be regarded as school property. Messages related to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.

9. The downloading of files from the internet and the uploading of files from a disk to the school network is not permitted unless permission has been granted by the teacher.


DISCIPLINE AND CONDUCT

In keeping with The Mary E. Albury High School’s mission to develop character and instill self-discipline, the teachers will clearly communicate all rules and classroom policies regarding student conduct. Students are expected to follow these guidelines out of respect and a sense of personal responsibility. In the event that a student fails to uphold his pledge to honor the standards of The Mary E. Albury High School, a disciplinary process will be initiated.


DISCIPLINARY PROCESS

The Disciplinary Process is designed to develop Christian character and instill self-discipline. As such, there is the assumption that students are to enter The Mary E. Albury High School with a serious purpose and intent that their own conscience and Biblical principles should provide a guide to their behavior.


The goal is to cultivate a deep sense of personal responsibility for each student’s own conduct and achievement and for the well being of the larger community of which he or she is a part. Each student is encouraged to abide by the honor code and the clearly communicated rules and responsibilities. If a student has difficulty abiding by his or her commitment to the Honor Code and to the expectations of the MEAHS community, the process is as follows:
1. The behavior is brought to the student’s attention and the first chance is given for improvement.

2. The behavior is identified, addressed and documented by the teacher who will then work together with the student to achieve resolution. Teachers are responsible for maintaining an appropriate level of discipline and control in the classroom and on campus.

3. If the behavior persists, the teacher may assign a detention. Parents will receive written or oral communication regarding persistent misbehavior with the purpose of involving parents in identifying and solving on-going behavior issues. The teacher may request a parent-teacher conference to address the documented behavior.

4. If further action is needed, the teacher may request a parent meeting to outline more serious consequences. These consequences may include but are not limited to one to five day suspensions and/or expulsion depending on the nature of the behavior.

5. A student may be placed on disciplinary probation by the Principal when a student has not responded satisfactorily to the discipline process.

The purpose of probation is to clearly focus the seriousness of the need for a whole-hearted commitment to change.

a. At that time, during a conference with the student and parents, a specific time for the probationary period duration (one half of a semester or one full semester) and detailed goals for change will be clearly set.

b. The Principal/teacher will communicate weekly with the student and parents as to the nature of the changes taking place. Parents and students will be given progress reports during the probationary period.

c. If, after careful consideration, the student has responded positively to the goals of the probationary period, privileges will be restored and a plan for ongoing accountability will be initiated. If the student has not responded positively, the probationary period may be extended, or the student’s parents will be asked to withdraw the student.

6. A student may be suspended or expelled for specific violations of the school rules and/or the student honor code as well as a general lack of cooperation as indicated by an unwilling spirit, resistant or rebellious behavior, or an unacceptable attitude.

a. A suspension may be 1, 3, 5, or 10 days and may be served at home or in school as directed by the Principal.

b. The student will be expected to complete all of the assigned class work and to make up tests according to the absence make up policy. Full credit will be given for academic work during the suspension.

d. A suspension usually goes into effect immediately. The suspended student will not be allowed to represent The Mary E. Albury High School in any activities during the suspension period.

e. An expulsion will be given for a serious isolated incident or a violation of the Honor Code. If a student is expelled, he/she may apply for possible readmission after 12 months absence, unless otherwise specified by the administration.

Note: While every effort will be made to help the student change their behavior throughout the discipline process, the Principal and teachers may use any of the above disciplinary actions to address situations as they arise.



SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS

This list of rules is not intended to be all-inclusive. Enrollment at The Mary E. Albury High School constitutes a social contract to uphold and comply with the expectations of the school at all times. A student whose behavior is considered to be injurious to the life of the school may be dismissed at any time. For behavior that violates school rules and/or reflects in any negative way on the school, the school reserves the right to discipline and hold accountable any student. After verification of any infractions the student should expect to be disciplined according to the standards and rules of the school. All school rules fall under two categories: respect and responsibility.

Minor Infractions

Students should expect consequences for the following infractions. There will be a system of demerits and merits used for minor infractions.

Respect

1. Group permission to talk may be given by the teacher. Students may not communicate in any way with each other while in a testing situation, until all tests and quizzes have been collected. Students are not to talk above normal tones. No noise that is distracting to the class is allowed.

2. Students are to avoid unnecessary noise. Students are to show courtesy to visitors, fellow students, and anyone in authority. Courtesy includes paying attention.

3. Wholesome boy-girl relationships are encouraged. Students, however, must refrain from all open displays of romantic affection while at school or school functions. Hand holding, embracing, or any other contact that would contribute to undue familiarity will not be tolerated.

Responsibility

1. Students must arrive to school on time. Three unexcused tardies per semester equals one detention.

2. Students must have their own school supplies and materials ready at the beginning of class.

3. Late work - Assignments and other deadlines must be met by the stated time set by the teacher. For each day work is not turned in after the time it is due, the grade may be lowered one letter grade.

4. Students must meet the uniform and hair code.

5. Students are to keep the campus and classrooms neat and clean, including cubbies, and in and around their desks. Classroom aisles are to be kept clear. No papers or books are to be stored on the floor at the end of the day. Assigned areas are to be kept neat, containing only permitted items. Books, book bags, and school supplies are to be stored in cubbies when not in use.

7. Students must never be barefoot on campus. Flip-flops and sandals are not allowed at school.

8. Students may not consume food and drinks in the classroom.

9. No gum may be chewed any time on campus, or when representing MEAHS at school functions off campus.


Major Infractions

Students should expect more serious consequences for the following infractions. Major infractions may be the result of accumulated minor infractions and/or a general lack of respect for the disciplinary process and the MEAHS Honor Code. The Principal handles consequences for major infractions with appropriate input from the teachers. The consequences may include but are not limited to the following: parent conferences, detentions, caning, suspensions, and/or expulsions.


Respect

1. Students are required to stay on campus during school hours, except for lunch break or when given permission to do so by the teacher. Violators are subject to possible suspension or expulsion.

2. Students must comply with all aspects of the dress code.

3. Students should abstain from all forms of gambling on campus.

Responsibility

1. Students are not allowed to bring or handle dangerous materials – matches, bullets, firecrackers, explosives, knives, guns, laser-pointers, etc. It is also to be understood that no printed materials relative to these dangerous items, such as information gathered from computers, are to be brought on campus. Violators are subject to suspension or expulsion.

2. Students who use any MEAHS owned computers must abide by the following guidelines: No obscene, offensive, or harmful material, no unauthorized accessing, no wasting resources, no unauthorized games, no damaging hardware or software, no installing or running any new or outside software without the proper authorization (Violators may also be subject to revocation of privileges, damage assessments, suspension, expulsion, or even legal action.)

3. During school hours students are not permitted to use cell phones. If brought to school, cell phones are not to be seen, heard, or used in any manner during class time. Teachers will confiscate the phone and return

it to the student at the end of the day. A second offense will require a parent to pick up the cell phone from the teacher. A third offense will result in the cell phone being confiscated for the remainder of the semester. The inappropriate use of other electronic devises (e.g. MP3 players, cameras, etc.) are subject to the same rules.


Serious Infractions

The following behaviors are violations of the MEAHS Student Honor Code and as such are of a more serious nature. Students should expect more serious consequences for the following infractions. Character infractions are considered to be the most serious offenses and will be handled by the Principal. Consequences will be more serious involving but not limited to caning, suspensions and possible expulsion.


1. Use or possession of tobacco, drugs, or alcohol.

2. No lying, stealing (which includes borrowing without permission), or cheating is allowed. Violators are subject to suspension or expulsion. Students who cheat will receive a zero on such work and are expelled after three incidents during their years at MEAHS.

3. No profanity or vulgarity is allowed.

4. No deliberate action that could be or is injurious to another person is allowed - fighting, throwing objects, etc. Violators are subject to suspension or expulsion.

5. School and privately-owned equipment must be used properly. Lost or damaged items will be charged to the one responsible, even if not intentionally lost or damaged. Restitution for damaged property will be made based on the cost to replace the item.

6. Open defiance, serious insults, or absolute refusal to obey the direct command of a person in authority is not allowed. Violators are subject to suspension or expulsion.



DISCIPLINE CHART (possible consequences for infractions)

Infraction Occurrence (Infraction: 1st, 2nd, 3rd)

Leaving the school grounds or site of school activity without permission: Detention, 1 Day In-School Suspension

Displays of physical affections on school property: Warning, 1 Detention, 2 Detentions

Possession and/or playing of radios, stereos, phones, wearing a hat: Confiscation; Return to the student at the end of one day and 1 detention, Confiscation; Return to the parent at the end of a week and 2 detentions Confiscation; Returned to the parent at the end of the semester

Possession of cigarettes, matches, pipes, or any other type of smoking paraphernelia: 1 Day Suspension, 1 Day In-School Suspension, 2 Days In-School Suspension

Flagrant disrespect to any adult: 2 Detentions, 1 Day In-School Suspension, 2 Days In-School Suspension

Failure to report to detention: 2 Detentions, In-School Suspension

Disruptive behavior in detention: 2 Detentions, In-School Suspension

Inappropriate language in halls or classroom: 1 Detention, In-School Suspension

Defiance of a teacher's authority: 5 Detentions, 1-3 Days In-School Suspension

Possession and/or use of a dangerous weapon (explosives, fireworks, air powered guns, etc.): Confiscation and/or Suspension; Parent Conference; Confiscation, Detention, In-School Suspension

Incomplete homework: 1st–4th occurrence Demerit, 5th occurrence Detention, 6th occurrence In-School Suspension

Disruptiveness: 1st–4th occurrence Demerit, 5th occurrence Detention, 6th occurrence In-School Suspension

Unexcused tardiness:  1st–4th occurrence Demerit, 5th occurrence Detention, 6th occurrence In-School Suspension

Unexcused uniform infraction: 1st–4th occurrence Demerit, 5th occurrence Detention, 6th occurrence In-School Suspension

Fighting: 5 – 10 days suspension; parent conference must be held prior to readmittance 7– 10 days suspension; parent conference must be held prior to readmittance; referral for counselling 10 days suspension; parent conference must be held prior to readmittance; School Board hearing for expulsion

Provoking a fight / verbally abusing or harrassing another student / physically violating the rights of others: Suspension and/or detention; Student may be sent home for the day; Parent contact if needed

Tampering, damaging or attempting to cause damage to school or personal property: Restitution and detention, Restitution and Suspension

Tampering with fire extinguisher: Restitution and detention

Stealing: Return and/or payment for stolen property and/or suspension

Making telephone threats, that affect school/ student safety starting a fire in school whether the intent is malicious, damaging, prankish, or deliberate: Immediate Suspension; Possible School Board hearing; Charges may be filed with local authorities

Possession, consumption or being under the influence of alcoholic beverages or of controlled dangerous substances: 5 day suspension, 10 day suspension; possible School Board expulsion hearing; Referral to authorities

Sale and/or Distribution of controlled dangerous substances: 10 day suspension; School Board expulsion hearing; Referral to authorities