CONTENTS

• HHS TELEPHONE NUMBERS, BELL SCHEDULE & CALENDAR
• ACADEMIC INFORMATION
• Standard Course of Study
• Standard Course of Study Graduation Requirements
• Occupational Course of Study
• Occupational Course of Study Graduation Requirements
• Promotion
• Examinations
• Report Cards
• North Carolina Standardized Transcript and Weighted Grades
• Honors Classes Criteria
• Class Rank, Honor Graduates and Honor Graduate Speeches
• Credit for Mountain Area Education Center Courses
• ATTENDANCE
  • Clay County Schools Attendance Policy
  • North Carolina Compulsory School Attendance Law
  • Absences from Class and Early Dismissals
• ETHICS STATEMENT and Cheating at Hayesville High School
• GUIDANCE CENTER
• HOMEWORK and The Homework Center
• HONORS PROGRAM, Honor Rolls and Honor Societies
• CAMPUS INFORMATION
  • Cafeteria
  • Dress Code
  • Food, Drink and Gum
  • Lockers
  • Parking
  • School Cancellations
  • School Dances
  • Taping Classes
  • Telephones
  • Visitors
  • Prescription Drugs at School
• DISCIPLINE INFORMATION
  • Code of Conduct
  • Suspension From School
  • Discipline Hearings
• EMERGENCY EVACUATIONS
• EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
  • School Clubs & Organizations and Activity Calendar
  • Interscholastic Athletics and Eligibility Requirements
• MEDIA CENTER
• SCHOOL BUS INFORMATION
• SELECTED BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES
  • Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Statements
  • Anti-Discrimination, Anti-Harassment, Anti-Bullying Policy
  • Drug Free Policy
  • Drug Testing Student Drivers Policy
  • Grievance Procedure for Students
  • Internet Acceptable Use Policy
  • Parents' Right of Access to Student Records
  • Search and Seizure Policy
  • Sexual Harassment Policy
  • Sportsmanship Policy
  • Student Restraint/Seclusion/Isolation Policy (abridged)
  • Weapons and Violence Policy
    

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

Standard Course of Study (SCS)
Students are expected to select one of the following courses of study and develop four year plans to guide them through high school.

The College/University Prep curriculum is designed for students planning to enter careers that demand a degree from a 4-year college or university. This curriculum emphasizes mathematics, the sciences, foreign language, literature, composition, the social sciences and the arts. Students are expected to choose and master those courses that will meet state and local guidelines, as well as college or university admissions requirements.

The College Tech Prep curriculum supports the "4 plus 2" plan that combines four years of high school with a two-year community college associate's degree. This curriculum emphasizes technology, math, science and communication skills. Students who enroll in the Tech Prep curriculum can expect to receive hands-on training and preparation for the workplace of the 21st century.

The College/University Prep - College Tech Prep curriculum provides an opportunity for students to complete both the college and technical preparatory programs. Students who complete this curriculum earn the credentials to enter a 4-year college or university or a 2-year community college program.

Standard Course of Study (SCS) Graduation Requirements
Students working in the regular education program must complete one of the above courses of study in order to graduate from Hayesville High School. The following are the minimum SCS graduation requirements.

*In addition to the required units, all SCS students must meet the applicable North Carolina Competency and Computer Proficiency requirements and successfully complete a Senior Project.

**Beginning with the Class of 2010, all SCS students must pass the English I, Algebra I, Biology, Civics, and Economics and US History End of Course Tests in addition to meeting the applicable North Carolina Competency and Computer Profieciency requirements and successfully completing a Senior Project. (See Examinations section).

Occupational Course of Study (OCS)
Students enrolled in the Occupational Course of Study must have a current Individualized Education Plan (IEP) that guides their progress through high school. This course of study is designed to help students learn the skills necessary to achieve and maintain life-long employment. Since OCS courses are as rigorous as those of the Standard Course of Study, OCS graduates receive the same high school diploma as their SCS counterparts. However, because of the employment focus of the OCS, its graduates are not prepared to enter a four-year college program upon completion of high school, but they are qualified and encouraged to seek additional training opportunities at a community college or technical school.

Occupational Course of Study Graduation Requirements
Students enrolled in the Occupational Course of Study must earn at least 28 units in order to graduate from Hayesville High School. Those 28 units include the following minimum requirements.

Promotion
Promotion from grade to grade is based on the number of units of credit earned.

Examinations
Hayesville High School requires students to take an End-of-Course examination (EOC), a Vocational Test (VoCATS), or a teacher-made final examination at the end of each course. These final tests will count 25% of the final course average.

EOC and VoCATS examinations are state-mandated tests given in selected academic and in all vocational classes. During the 27-08 school year, EOC examinations will be given in the following classes, English I, Algebra I and II, Civics & Economics, Physical Science, Geometry, U.S. History, Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Beginning with the class of 2010, passing End of Course Tests in English I, Algebra I, Biology, Civics and Economics, and U. S. History and completing a senior exit porject are graduation requirements.

In addition, all tenth grade students will take the North Carolina Writing Assessment and the North Carolina High School Comprehensive Tests of Reading and Mathematics. The results of these tests will help determine future high school placement.

All students in the Classes of 2008 and 2009 must meet minimum reading and mathematics competencies by scoring at or above grade level on the End-of-Course tests of reading and math given upon the completion of the eight grade, or by passing the North Carolina Competency Examination. Meeting the Minimum Competency standard is a graduation requirement.

All students are also required to meet the North Carolina Computer Proficiency standards by passing the North Carolina Tests of Computer Skills either in the eighth grade or during high school. Meeting the Computer Proficiency standard is a graduation requirement.

Report Cards
Report cards are issued 6 times during the school year. Parents are also encouraged to contact the school at any time to inquire about a student's academic progress. A seven point grading scale is used to report grades on the report cards:

Each final course grade consists of 3 six-week averages and 1 final examination (EOC, VoCATS or teacher-made final). Final course averages are computed in this manner:

Six-week 1 + Six-week 2 + Six-week 3 + Final Examination/4


North Carolina Standardized Transcript and Weighted Grades
North Carolina law mandates that all high schools generate a standardized transcript for each student. These transcripts are meant to ensure that college entrance officers, employers and the military receive standard information regarding the students who attend North Carolina Schools. As a result, a state-mandated standardized transcript grade weighting system is in effect that classifies courses on three levels.

STANDARD (S) COURSES: Standard courses are basic and/or introductory courses that follow the standards specified by the North Carolina Standard Course of Study or Occupational Course of Study.

ADVANCED/HONORS (H) COURSES: The content and academic rigor in Advanced or Honors courses puts high expectations on the student and surpasses the standards specified by the Standard Course of Study. The state weighting system adds the equivalent of one quality point to the grade earned in standard courses.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) COURSES: AP courses provide college-level content, pace and academic rigor as adopted by the College Board and prepare students for the AP test. The state weighting system adds the equivalent of two quality points to the grade earned in AP courses.

Students who transfer into Hayesville High School may only receive weighted credit for courses if those courses are also given weighted credit at this school.

The North Carolina Standardized Transcript also mandates the conversion of grades to quality points. Quality point equivalents for Standard (S) courses:

Honors Classes Criteria

Honors classes are offered in mathematics, English, science, social studies, the arts and Career-Technical Education. Students who wish to take honors classes must meet two of the following criteria:

• An orverall unweighted GPA of 3.5.
• A 90 average in previously taken subject(s) in the department (For example, to take Honors Chemistry a student must have 90 averages in all previously taken science classes.).
• Recommendation from most recent subject area teachers (For example, a student who whishes to take Honors Geometry but is lacking one of the above requirements, may ask his or her Algebra I teacher for a recommendation.).

Class Rank, Honor Graduates and Honor Graduate Speeches
Class rank is based on quality point averages consistent with the state weighting equivalents.

Students enrolled in the Standard Course of Study with a cumulative average of 3.63 are named as honor graduates and are recognized at graduation. Honor graduates are determined by averaging the final grades of the first seven semesters of high school with the approximate final grade of the eighth semester on May 1 of the graduation year. The counselor and each perspective honor graduate average the grades.

Graduation speeches are given by at least two honor graduates and are selected by competition.

Credit for Mountain Area Education Center (MAEC) Courses
A student will only receive credit for taking a course at MAEC in Blairsville, GA, if he or she previously failed the course and must make it up to graduate on time. Permission to take a course at MAEC will be granted upon completion of the failed course.

ATTENDANCE INFORMATION

Clay County Schools Attendance Policy
North Carolina Public School Law GS 115C-378 requires students to attend school each day while school is in session. The Clay County Board of Education is committed to enforcing all state laws and regulations that relate to student attendance, attendance accounting and enforcement of compulsory school attendance. The Board shall adopt attendance regulations which are non-discriminatory, promote student achievement and discourage dropouts.

The Board believes that regular school attendance is one of the key factors related to school achievement. Responsibility for regular school attendance resides with the parent/guardian and the individual student.

Student Attendance: Recognizing that regular attendance is the foundation for learning and that North Carolina Law requires the attendance of students between the ages of seven and sixteen, these regulations are intended to inform, to encourage regular attendance and to hold students and parents responsible for attendance.

Definitions:

Attendance - To be considered in attendance, a student must be present in any given class for at least one-half of the period or in a place other than the school with the approval of the appropriate school official to attend an authorized school activity. These activities include field trips, athletic contests, student conventions, music festivals or similar activities.

Parent Notification - After five accumulated absences in a given class, the parent or guardian shall be notified. After ten accumulated unexcused absences from school, the parent or guardian of a child under age 16 shall be notified by mail that there may be a violation of the Compulsory School Attendance Law.

Chronic Illness or Conditions - A doctor's verification of an illness or condition which is likely to result in the frequent absence of a student shall be placed in the student's file.

Hayesville High School Attendance Procedure: Students who are absent more than seven days per semester will not receive credit for the course. [However, a student with an A (93) final average in a particular class is exempt from the attendance policy in that class.] Students who have earned a grade of 70 or above have the right to appeal the denial of credit to the attendance committee. The committee will be comprised of one student, one parent, two teachers and one school counselor or school administrator.

Students who have been absent will have the opportunity to make up the work assigned by the teacher within two school days after returning to school. If students miss two consecutive days, they may have one additional day to turn in make-up work for each additional day missed. It will be the student's responsibility to seek the make-up assignment from the teacher at a convenient time for the teacher that will not interrupt the instructional time of a class. Make-up assignments must be requested within two days of the absence. After school tutoring will be available to assist student with assigned work.

Parents must contact the school by telephone or verifiable note within 24 hours of the absence to communicate the reason for the absence. If the school is not contacted within the 24-hour period the absence will be considered truancy.

Participation in School Events: Students absent from school on any given day will not be eligible to participate or be in attendance at any school activities that day, evening or night. If a student is absent on Friday, participation or attendance at school events will not be allowed over the following weekend.

Tardies: Four tardies will equal one absence.

North Carolina Compulsory School Attendance Law
All students below the age of 16 are compelled by North Carolina law to attend school regularly. Students under the age of 16 and their parents who are in violation of the law, that is, accumulate more than 10 unexcused absences, are subject to prosecution.

Absences from Class
Students are expected to be in class on time. Class attendance is recorded in the teacher's grade book and reported to the office at the end of the day. If a student is not authorized to be out of class, he or she will be considered truant and will be subject to disciplinary action.

Early Dismissals
All early dismissals from school must be cleared through the high school office. Before a student may check out, a school official must talk with a parent or guardian in person or by telephone. Notes will only be accepted if they can be verified by telephone. Parents are urged to contact the office regarding early dismissals prior to 8:30 a.m., and notes must be delivered to the office before first period begins. The necessary information will be recorded on an early dismissal slip and sent to the student. The student must inform his or her teacher of the dismissal upon entering the class and will be dismissed at the appropriate time.

A student who becomes sick during the day should come to the office to telephone a parent or guardian, and a school official must speak with the parent or parent's designee before the student may be dismissed from school.

Hayesville High School operates a closed campus, and students are expected to remain on campus during lunch. Therefore, early dismissals will not be granted for the purpose of leaving school for lunch.

ETHICS STATEMENT

The faculty of Hayesville High School believes that every student should be encouraged to be a responsible, trustworthy individual, capable of excelling to the best of his or her ability without cheating. A positive environment conducive to learning is provided, and students are encouraged to seek assistance from parents, teachers and peers in an appropriate way when extra help is needed. Cheating, however, is not acceptable at Hayesville High School.

Cheating
Cheating is defined as willfully using another's work as your own and includes copying someone's test, class or home-work, turning in someone's work as your own, allowing someone to copy or turn in your work as his or hers, plagiarism and "cheat sheets" or using electronic devices contrary to teacher instructions. Cheating may apply to homework, class assignments, term papers, essays, reports, projects, quizzes, tests, examinations, or any work assigned to a student by a teacher.

Each cheating episode is an automatic referral to the office with the following consequences:
1st offense: Zero grade, parent notification, counseling
2nd offense: Zero grade, one day ISS, parent notification, counseling
3rd offense: Zero grade, two days ISS, parent notification, counseling
4th offense: Zero grade, five days OSS, parent notification, counseling

Further cheating offenses will result in a disciplinary hearing with a recommendation of a long-term suspension.

GUIDANCE CENTER

The Guidance Center provides the following services for all Hayesville High School students:

• Information, including videos and computer programs, on occupations and careers.
• Aptitude, interest and personality tests, and other information gathered for student use.
• Assistance in the development and maintenance of student four-year high school plans and yearly schedules.
• College catalogs and technical school information, plus assistance with applications.
• Scholarship and financial aid information, plus assistance with applications.
• Armed services information.
• Individual and group counseling, including mediation.
• Referral to the Exceptional Children's program.
• Information about parent/child relationships.

  
  HOMEWORK
  
  Homework reinforces what we teach students, helps them acquire necessary skills through practice, provides daily activities that require critical thinking, and develops the self-discipline needed for success.
  
  The Homework Center
  The Homework Center is open at least two afternoons a week after school in the Media Center. The Homework Center provides students with a quiet place to study with teachers who are available to assist with math, science, English or social studies. In addition, the Media Center computer lab is available as needed.
  
  The Homework Center schedule will be posted in each classroom during the first week of school. Students are encouraged to utilize this important resource.

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HONORS PROGRAM

Honor Rolls
Students who maintain high academic averages will be included on one of the honor rolls to be published at the end of each six-week grading period.

· Superintendent's Scholars - All A's
· Principal's Scholars - All A's and B's

Weighted grades are used to compute the honor rolls. Seniors must attend school for the full day in order to qualify for honor roll status.

Honor Societies
Hayesville High School recognizes academic achievement and good citizenship by inviting qualified students to join one or more honor societies.

· Beta Club - Students who maintain a 3.50 average and meet citizenship requirements may be tapped for Beta Club during their sophomore year.
· National Honor Society - Students who maintain a 3.9 average and meet leadership, character and service qualifications may be invited to join the National Honor Society during their junior year.
· National Technical Honor Society - Students who complete a vocational program of study with an A average and maintain an overall average of 2.88, as well as display character and leadership qualities, may be inducted into the National Technical Honor Society.
· Mu Alpha Theta - Students who are enrolled and excel in advanced level math classes and maintain a high overall average may be invited to join Mu Alpha Theta, a math honorary society.
· The Tri-M Society is open to students enrolled in performing arts classes who exceed the usual expectations of the class.


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CAMPUS INFORMATION

Cafeteria
Breakfast and lunch are served in the school cafeteria. Students are encouraged to eat the well-balanced meals that are provided at a nominal cost. Applications for free or reduced meal prices are available in the office, and eligible students are urged to make application. A student's 2006-07 free or reduced lunch eligibility expires on September 10, 2007; therefore, a ndew application must be received by that date. Students may not charge lunch, breakfast or ala Carte items in the cafeteria.

Hayesville High School operates a closed campus, and students are expected to remain on campus during lunch. Therefore, early dismissals will not be granted for the purpose of leaving school for lunch.

Clay County Schools Student Dress Code
An orderly environment is critical for teaching and learning. Students are prohibited from disrupting teaching, the orderly conduct of school activities, or any other lawful function of the school or school district.

Students are not permitted to wear clothing that is substantially disruptive, provocative or obscene, or endangers the health or safety of others.

Students are expected to wear appropriate clothing to school. Students who do not comply with the following guidelines will be asked to change clothing before attending class. Those who habitually (more than once) fail to follow the guidelines will be counseled and may be subject to disciplinary action.

· Clothing that is suggestive or distasteful will not be worn. This includes apparel that is too tight or too short. Shirts, blouses or tops must be long enough to extend to the belt line. Midriffs should be covered at all times, and underclothes must be concealed.
· Shoes or sandals must be worn at all times.
· Caps, sunglasses, hats and other headgear will not be permitted in the buildings.
· Attire which displays vulgar or profane wording or depictions, and that mentions, depicts or alludes to sex, alcoholic beverages, drugs or tobacco products may not be worn.
· No bare shoulders, strapless tops, or low cut blouses.

Judgment of questionable dress will be made on a case-by-case basis by the principal or his or her designee. Any clothing or appearance deemed by the school administration to be unacceptable or disruptive to the educational process may be prohibited.

Food, Drink or Gum
Eating and drinking in the classrooms or outer office is not permitted. Chewing gum in class is at the discretion of the individual teachers. Chewing gum should always be disposed of properly.

Lockers
Lockers are available for all students without charge. Students may only use the school lock that is provided with the locker and are expected to assume full responsibility for the security of their lockers. Lockers must remain locked at all times. Lockers remain the property of the school. Every effort will be made to maintain student privacy, but each student must be aware that school lockers will be subject to search by the school administration if there is a reasonable suspicion of wrongdoing. Illegal or contraband items found in lockers are considered permissible evidence in school disciplinary hearings or criminal proceedings.

See also the Search and Seizure section of this handbook.

Parking
Students may park only in designated parking areas and only with a valid Hayesville High School parking tag. Any student operating a vehicle in an unsafe manner on the Clay County Schools campus will lose his or her privilege to park at school and will be subject to further disciplinary action. The 2007-08 parking tags are available in the office. There is no charge for parking, but students must complete a parking tag application. Beginning with the 2006-07 schoo year, students must agree to be subject to random drug testing in order to receive a parking tag and park on the Hayesville High School campus; see Clay County School's Drug Testing Student Drivers policy.

Students may not loiter in the parking lots before or after school. In addition, the parking lots are off limits to students during the day unless they have permission from the office. Physical Education students should keep their PE clothes in the gym or school locker and not in their cars.

See also the Search and Seizure Policy section of this handbook.

Prescription Drugs at School
All prescription drugs must be kept in the office and should only be taken under the direction of school personnel. See the principal or school nurse for more information. Students who dispense prescription drugs to other students will be subject to the Hayesville High School discipline code. See sale or distribution of a controlled substance section of this handbook.

School Cancellations and Delays
If school must be cancelled for bad weather or other reasons, the decision will be made by 6:00 a.m. and announced over radio stations WCVP, WKRK and WCNG FM (102.7) or on television stations WRCB (Channel 3 from Chattanooga) and WLOS (Channel 5 from Asheville). In addition, if the weather does not interrupt telephone service, the superintendent will issue an automated telphone message to all valid student home phone numbers at approximately 6:00 a.m.

Sometimes it is necessary to close school early because of bad weather or other reasons. Announcements will be made over the above radio stations or via the automated telphone messaging system as soon as that decision is made. We ask that all students and parents make plans in advance to use in the event that school closes early.

School Dances
Only Hayesville High School students in good standing and their approved guests may attend dances sponsored by Hayesville High School. A student may only bring one guest to a dance, and that guest may not be younger than the ninth grade. Tickets to all dances are sold in advance; a student must give the name and address of the guest and must agree to be responsible for the guest's conduct. A guest will only be admitted to a dance accompanied by the student who purchased the ticket for him or her, and must leave the dance when the student who purchased the ticket leaves.

Only seniors and juniors are entitled to obtain tickets for the Junior/Senior Prom. They may bring a freshmen or sophomore to the prom as a guest, but the freshmen or sophomore will only be admitted with the junior or senior who invited him or her and must leave when the junior or senior leaves.

Taping Classes

Students may only audio- or videotape classes with the permission of the teacher.

Telephones
The telephone in the office may be used by students during class time only in the case of illness or emergencies affecting the student's well being. Students who wish to make other types of phone calls may do so before or after school or during class breaks.

Students may not have wireless or cell phones in use or in sight during class time, during assemblies, or during any activity when common courtesy calls fro undivided attention. Students who violate the cell phone policy will receive one warning and then be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.

Visitors
All visitors must report to the principal's office immediately upon entering the Hayesville High School complex. Students may not bring guests, including babies or young children, to school with them.


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DISCIPLINE INFORMATION

Code of Conduct
The Hayesville High School discipline code is based on certain rules and regulations that must be followed in order to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment. The principal of the school is charged by the state with the creation and maintenance of good order and discipline, and it has been determined that the following specific behaviors and types of misconduct are prohibited; minimum punishments are also noted.



INFRACTION AND MINIMUM PUNISHMENT (TO INCLUDE AUTOMATIC PARENT NOTIFICATION):

Disrespect for and/or refusal to comply with a reasonable request of a teacher or other school official: 2-10 day suspension or recommendation for a long-term suspension.

Disrupting the orderly process of education: 2-10 day suspension or recommendation for a long-term suspension.

Excessively tardy to school or class: Saturday School, in-school suspension or suspension of driving privileges.

Truancy or leaving school or class without permission: 2-10 day suspension; referral to law enforcement if appropriate.

Vandalism and/or the destruction of school property: 3-10 day suspension and restitution or recommendation for a long-term suspension; referral to law enforcement if appropriate.

Misconduct at school, at a school-sponsored activity or on a school sponsored trip: 3-10 day suspension.

Public display of affection: 1st offense: Warning; Further offenses: 2-10 day suspension.

Theft: 3-10 day suspension and restitution or recommendation for a long-term suspension; referral to law enforcement if appropriate.

Cheating: 1st offense: Zero, counseling; 2nd offense: Zero, 1 day suspension, counseling; 3rd offense: Zero, 2 day suspension, counseling; 4th offense: Zero, 5 day suspension, counseling; Further offense: Recommendation for a long-term suspension.

Use or possession of tobacco products: 1st offense: 2 day suspension; 2nd offense: 3 day suspension; Further offenses: 3-10 day suspension.

Use of fireworks, including "poppers" and stink bombs: 3-10 day suspension.

Causing proven physical or emotional harm by deliberately spreading gossip or malicious statements about another person: 3-10 day suspension.

Possession, use or attending school under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, including beer, wine coolers and malt liquor; possession of drug paraphernalia: 10 day suspension and counseling or recommendation for a long-term suspension; referral to law enforcement if appropriate.

Threatening, harassing, intimidating or causing bodily harm to any person, including sexual harassment: 3-10 day suspension and counseling or recommendation for a long-term suspension; referral to law enforcement if appropriate.

Making a threat of terrorism, including a bomb threat: 10 day suspension and counseling or recommendation for long-term suspension; referral to law enforcement.

Act of terrorism: Recommendation for long-term suspension; referral to law enforcement.

Sale or distribution of a controlled substance, including illegal drugs and narcotics, alcoholic beverages and controlled prescription drugs or a substance purported to be an illegal drug or narcotic, alcoholic beverage, or controlled prescription drug: Recommendation for a long-term suspension; referral to law enforcement.

Possession of a firearm, explosive, or other weapon on school property; causing another person to possess a firearm, explosive or other weapon; using or threatening to use any instrument construed to be a weapon: Recommendation for a long-term suspension; referral to law enforcement.

More than three infractions of the discipline code for which a student may receive a short-term suspension: Recommendation for a long-term suspension.

Infractions of bus discipline code (depends on nature and number): Warning or bus suspension or bus expulsion and/or a 3-10 day suspension from school.

All students are advised that the Hayesville High School Code of Conduct applies to any student who is on school property, who is in attendance at school or at any school-sponsored activity, or when conduct at any time or place has a direct and immediate effect on maintaining order and discipline in the Clay County Schools.

Suspension from School
Suspension from school may be in-school or out-of-school at the discretion of the principal, with the severity of the offense and the well being of the offender and the remainder of the student body taken into consideration. Other punishments that may be invoked include: Saturday School, break and lunch detention, written essays, before or after school detention, campus work detail, loss of parking privileges, or bus suspension.

In-school suspension (ISS) is a disciplinary action that is an equivalent alternative to out-of-school suspension (OSS). It is administered with the same seriousness as OSS, and the reasons for the time spent in the program are also the same. ISS is usually assigned for 1 to 5 days, and if deemed appropriate by the school administration, Saturday School might be offered as an alternative to a 1-day ISS assignment. Students in ISS may not participate in school activities.

Short-term out-of-school suspension may last from 1 to 10 days. Students who receive short term OSS may make up tests, exams, EOC's or VoCATS that are missed, but may not participate in any school activity or practice, or ride in a school vehicle for the duration of the suspension.

Long-term out-of-school suspension (more than 10 days) or expulsion will be applied after a recommendation is made by the principal to the superintendent of schools and after the student has the opportunity to be heard by the school Discipline Committee (see next section). A student who is on long-term suspension or expulsion is prohibited from entering the Clay County Schools' campus, attending any school function, or riding in a school vehicle for the duration of the suspension or expulsion.

Discipline Hearings
A student whose behavior warrants a recommendation for long-term suspension or expulsion is entitled to a hearing before the Hayesville High School Discipline Committee. This committee will be composed of three teachers, one student council or class officer and one parent, and will be convened by a Clay County Schools central office administrator. Students and parents will be informed of the committee procedure prior to an appearance before the committee. The committee will make a recommendation as to whether the principal's recommendation for a long term suspension or expulsion should be forwarded to the superintendent of schools, and the final disposition of the matter will reside with the superintendent.



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EMERGENCY EVACUATIONS

Fire drills will be conducted in each building as prescribed by North Carolina statute. Students will follow their teachers' instructions in the orderly evacuation of the buildings. Fire drills are announced by a continuous blast from the fire alarm system.

Tornado drills are also announced over the public address system. Students will be instructed by their teachers in the tornado drill procedure for each room.



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EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

All students are invited and encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities in the form of school clubs and organizations and interscholastic athletics. Participation in school activities develops leadership, team building skills and creativity, and is, therefore, an important part of each student's education.


School Clubs and Organizations
School club meetings are held according to the activity period schedule published at the beginning of the school year. Organization names followed by an asterisk (*) have specific membership criteria; all others are open to all students. If you are interested on learning more about a school organization, see the sponsor.


Please refer to our Activities webpage for clubs and organizations and activity period time schedule and dates.


Interscholastic Athletics
Hayesville High School offers the following athletic activities. If you are intersted in participating, read the eligibility requirement listed below and see the coach.

Athletic Activity	Coach
Baseball	Mr. Vardo
Cheerleading	Mrs. Hollifield
Cross Country (men's and women's)	Mr. Carney
Football (varsity and jv)	Mr. Setzer
Golf	Mr. Walsh
Men's Basketball (varsity and jv)	Mr. Cottrell
Soccer (Co-ed)	Mr. Ward
Softball	Mrs. Stewart
Swimming (men's and women's)	Mrs. Garrison
Track (men's and women's)	Mr. Saltz & Mr. Moss
Volleyball (varsity and jv)	Mrs. Stewart
Women's Basketball (varsity and jv)	Mr. Thomspon
Wrestling	Mr. Setzer


Please refer to our Athletics webpage for various sports at Hayesville High School.

Eligibility

To be Eligible for Athletics a Student Must

• Be enrolled at Hayesville High School and meet North Carolina High School Athletic Association eligibility requirements.
• Meet residency requirements.
• Be in attendance at least 85% of the previous semester.
• Pass a minimum of 3 of 4 courses during the previous semester.
• Have a current athletic physical on file.
• Not turn 19 on or before October 16, 2007; in addition, upon entering the ninth grade, a student is only eligible for eight consecutive semesters and may not participate in a high school sport if he or she has taken part in four separate seasons of the sport in which he or she wishes to participate.
• Not receive money or awards with utilitarian value for participation.
• Follow practice and attendance guidelines set forth by the coach of the sport.
• Follow the Clay County Schools athletic policy concerning the use of drugs, alcohol and tobacco.
• Agree to be drug tested according to the Clay County Schools policy.
• With parents, attend a team meeting at the beginning of each sport season where athletes and their parents receive detailed North Carolina High School Athletic Association eligibility requirements and review the Clay County Schools athletic policies.

Any questions about athletic eligibility may be addressed to the Athletic Director, Mr. Steve Cottrell.



MEDIA CENTER

Our media center is a well-equipped and functional part of our school. Please refer to our Media Center webpage for our policies which allow us to give proper service and protect our equipment and materials.


SCHOOL BUS INFORMATION

Clay County's school buses provide transportation for any student who is entitled to ride. A safe and efficient transportation system depends on the cooperation of the school, parents, students and drivers. Student riders are expected to comply with the directions of bus drivers, and infractions of the school rules and of bus discipline will be dealt with by the principal upon notification from the bus drivers.



SELECTED CLAY COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES

The Clay County Board of Education and the Hayesville High School administration reserve the right to change the policies, procedures and rules contained in this handbook without prior notification.

Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Statements
Clay County Schools does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, age, handicap, or ethnic origin in the educational programs or activities that it operates. The schools are required by Title IX of the Educational Amendment of 1972 not to discriminate on the basis of sex, and by other Federal legislation not to discriminate on the basis of race or ethnic origin. The requirement not to discriminate in educational programs and activities extends to employment in the school and admission to its programs. Inquiries concerning the application of Title IX and other Federal non-discrimination legislation by Clay County Schools should be referred to:


Mrs. Carol Arnold, Associate Superintendent
Clay County Schools
P.O. Box 178
Hayesville, NC 28904
(828) 389-8513

Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act is a non-discrimination status barring discrimination on the basis of handicap. It is the policy of the Clay County Schools not to discriminate on the basis of handicap in its educational programs, activities or employment policies as required by the Act. The designated school district coordinator is:


Mrs. Carol Arnold, Associate Superintendent
Clay County Schools
P.O. Box 178
Hayesville, NC 28904
(828) 389-8513

Anti-Discrimination, Anti-Harassment, Anti-Bullying Policy

The Board believes that all employees and students should be free of unlawful discrimination, harassment, and bullying as part of a safe, orderly, caring and inviting working and learning environment. The Board commits itself to nondiscrimination in all its educational and employment activities. The board expressly prohibits unlawful discrimination, harassment or bullying, including on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, religion, age or disability.

The Board also prohibits retaliation against an employee or student who has exercised any rights made available through state or federal law, including prohibiting retaliation for reporting violations of this policy. Any violation of this policy is considered a serious violation and appropriate action will be taken in response to a violation.

A. Application of Policy: All persons, agencies, vendors, contractors and other persons and organizations doing business with or performing services for the school district must comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations regarding nondiscrimination. Visitors also are expected to comply with applicable laws, including the prohibition against harassment and bullying of students or harassment of employees.

This policy will apply in the following circumstances:

1. While in any school building or on any school premises, before, during or after school hours.

2. While on any bus or other vehicle as part of any school activity.

3. While waiting at any bus stop.

4. During any school function, extracurricular activity or other activity or event.

5. Any time or place when the behavior has a direct and immediate effect on maintaining order and discipline in the schools.

B. Definitions:

DISCRIMINATION MEANS ANY ACT THAT UNREASONABLY AND UNFAVORABLY DIFFERENTIATES TREATMENT OF OTHERS BASED SOLELY ON THEIR MEMBERSHIP IN A SOCIALLY DISTINCT GROUP OR CATEGORY, SUCH AS RACE, ETHNICITY, SEX, RELIGION, AGE OR DISABILITY. DISCRIMINATION MAY BE INTENTIONAL OR UNINTENTIONAL.

Harassment can be a type of unlawful discrimination. Harassment is unwanted, unwelcome and uninvited behavior that demeans, threatens or offends the victim and results in a hostile environment for the victim. The hostile environment can be created through pervasive or persistent misbehavior or a single incident, if sufficiently severe. Harassing behavior may include but is not limited to epithets, derogatory comments or slurs and lewd propositions, assault, impeding or blocking movement, offensive touching or any physical interference with normal work or movement, and visual insults, such as derogatory posters or cartoons.

It is possible for harassment to occur at various levels; between fellow students or co-workers, between supervisors and subordinates, between employees and students, or imposed by non-employees, including visitors on employees and/or students.

Bullying is a form of harassment. Bullying means the repeated intimidation of others by the real or threatened infliction of physical, verbal, written, electronically transmitted or emotional abuse through attacks on the property of another. Bullying may include, but is not limited to, verbal taunts, name-calling and putdowns, extortion of money or possessions, implied or stated threats, and exclusion from peer groups.

C. Complaint Procedures: Students - Students and parents are encouraged to submit any complaints of discrimination, harassment or bullying through the appropriate administrator or through the Clay County Schools Grievance Procedure.

Employees - Employees are encouraged to submit any complaints of discrimination or harassment through the Clay County Schools Grievance Procedure.

D. Non-Retaliation: The Board prohibits reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of discrimination, harassment or bullying. The consequence and appropriate remedial action for a person who engages in reprisal or retaliation shall be determined by the principal, after consideration of the nature and circumstances of the act, in accordance with applicable federal, state or local laws, policies and regulations.

E. Training and Programs: The Superintendent shall designate an employee to participate in training by the Department of Public Instruction pertaining to anti-discrimination, anti-harassment and anti-bullying. The designee will provide training in the school district regarding this policy and state requirements.

Information regarding this policy will be provided to students and employees. This training will include identifying groups that may be the target of discrimination, harassment or bullying; and will identify places at which such behavior may occur.

Notice: Each school shall provide in teacher and student handbooks notice to the respective parents and students of the procedures for reporting and investigating complaints of discrimination, harassment and bullying. The school district will investigate complaints of discrimination, harassment and bullying and will take reasonable steps to eliminate the discrimination, harassment or bullying.

Coordinators: The superintendent or designee will publish the names, addresses and phone numbers of the “Title IX Coordinator” (for sex discrimination), “Section 504 Coordinator” (for discrimination on the basis of disability), and the “ADA Coordinator” (also for discrimination on the basis of disability) in a manner intended to ensure that employees, applicants, students, parents and other individuals who participate in the school district's program are aware of the coordinators. The purpose of the coordinators position is to provide additional protection of nondiscrimination rights. The coordinator either must (1) implement a resolution to a discrimination, harassment or bullying complaint, to the extent a resolution can be reached and the coordinator has the authority to implement corrective action, or (2) notify the superintendent that intervention by other school officials is required to resolve the situation.

Records and Reporting: The superintendent or designee shall maintain confidential records of complaints or reports of discrimination which identify the names of any individuals accused of discrimination and the resolution of such reports or complaints. The superintendent also shall maintain records of training or other steps taken by the district to help provide an environment free of discrimination, harassment or bullying.

The Superintendent shall report to the State Board of Education all verified cases of discrimination, harassment or bullying. The report will be made through the Discipline Data Collection Report or through other means required by the State Board of Education.

Evaluation: The superintendent is required to evaluate the effectiveness of efforts to correct or prevent discrimination, harassment or bullying.

Drug Free Policy

The Clay County Board of Education recognizes that establishing a healthful, drug-free environment encourages student and employee productivity and promotes accomplishments of the school system's mission and goals.

The possession and/or use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and/or use of alcohol are wrong and harmful.

Standards of conduct prohibit the unlawful possession, use, manufacture, distribution or dispersion of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on school premises or as a part of any school-sponsored activity.

Disciplinary actions are described in the Student Handbook and will be imposed on students who violate these standards. Employees who violate these standards will be subject to disciplinary actions.

Information about drug and alcohol counseling, rehabilitation, and re-entry programs is available through school counselors, administrators, and the Coalition for a Safe and Drug-Free Clay County.

The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) of 2001, P.L. 107-110 which reauthorizes the ESEA Act of 1965 and the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (Title IV, Part A of the ESEA) of 2002 require local programs and activities that improve the quality of drug prevention programs. In accordance with this legislation, this policy will be made available to all students, employees and parents.

Students and employees who do not comply with this policy shall be subject to disciplinary actions in accordance with policies established by the Clay County Board of Education.

Drug Testing Student Drivers

The Clay County Board of Education believes that the use and abuse of drugs not prescribed for medical conditions can be detrimental to the physical, emotional and mental health of its students.

Therefore, for the sake of all students' physical mental and emotional well being, the Board of Education hereby mandates random drug testing for all students who receive a permit to drive and park an automobile on the school campus.

Procedures: At the beginning of each school year and during the school year, all students who desire to obtain a parking permit from Hayesville High School must present to the administration a consent form, signed by a parent or guardian, which authorizes the school to exercise drug testing and to release the results of the drug test to the administrative officials and the parents or guardians. Testing will be conducted at random periodically during the school year.

Although the drug testing program is intended to be a random process, a student may be tested based on a reasonable suspicion if the student exhibits acts that are either inconsistent with the student's usual behavior or consistent with being under the influence of drugs, narcotics or hallucinogenic substances.

First Positive: The students and parents will be notified. The student will not be allowed to drive an automobile on the Hayesville High School campus for three (3) months. Before a student's driving privileges are restored, the student must present the school evidence of at least three (3) counseling sessions at the expense of the parent or guardian. The student must also present the school with a negative drug test before driving/parking privileges are restored.

Second Positive: If at any time during the school year a student is tested at random, or for any other reason, and the results are a second positive, his/her parents or guardians shall be notified immediately. The student will have driving/parking privileges suspended for one calendar year. Before a student's driving parking privileges are restored, the student must present the school with evidence of at least a four-week counseling session at the expense of the parent or guardian. The student must also present the school with a negative drug test before driving/parking privileges are restored.

In the event a student believes this policy has not been applied to him or her in a manner consistent with the intent of the Board of Education, he or she has the same rights of grievance or appeal as provided by the Board of Education policy and written in the student handbook.



Clay County Schools Grievance Procedure for Students
It is the policy of the Clay County Board of Education that all students shall have the right to present for solution any problem arising with their status as students and shall be encouraged to exercise this right without fear of recrimination. It is for this purpose that a grievance procedure is established. To ensure that any problem is corrected as soon as possible, time limits have been established to assure prompt attention to each problem. If the student does not process his/her grievance within the prescribed time limit, it shall be considered settled and not open to appeal.

The grievance procedure may be used to address any situation occurring within the operation or normal procedures of the school that causes a student and/or parent to believe there has been a violation, misapplication or misinterpretation of law, regulation or Board policy, except in the case of long-term suspension. Students and their parents are encouraged to discuss their concerns informally with the person(s) involved before invoking formal grievance procedures.

If the grievance concerns the principal in other than a misapplication or misinterpretation of law, regulation or Board policy, the student may initiate the grievance procedure with the superintendent. If the grievance concerns the superintendent in other than a misapplication or misinterpretation of law, regulation or Board policy, the student may initiate the grievance procedure with the Board of Education.

The procedure for the initiation and conduct of a grievance shall be:

Step I - Conference with the Principal. A student, parent or guardian wishing to invoke the grievance procedure shall make a written request for a conference with the principal to discuss the grievance and seek resolution. The following guidelines shall be observed in Step I:

1. A grievance shall be filed as soon as possible, but in no event longer than thirty (30) days after disclosure of the facts giving rise to the grievance.
2. The principal shall grant the conference within five (5) school days following the receipt of the request.
3. The request shall include a statement describing the grievance and/or naming the specific policy, rule or law believed to be violated.
4. The principal will state his/her position concerning the question in writing to the student within five (5) school days following the conference.
5. Only the parent or guardian or someone acting in loco parentis shall be permitted to join or represent the student in the conference with the principal.

Step II - Appeal to the Superintendent. If the grievance is not resolved at Step I, the student may appeal the principal's decision in writing to the superintendent. The appeal must be made within five (5) school days following the receipt of the Principal's position statement of Step I.

The superintendent or designee shall review the grievance within five (5) school days following the receipt of the appeal. A written response shall be made to the student, the parent or the guardian and the principal from the superintendent or designee within ten (10) school days following the superintendent's review.

Step III - Appeal to the Board of Education. If the grievance is not resolved at Step II, the student may appeal the superintendent's decision to the Board in writing within ten (10) school days following the response from the superintendent at Step II. The Board shall offer a final written decision within thirty (30) days.

Clay County Schools Internet Acceptable Use Policy: Abridged Internet Use Agreement
The following is an excerpted passage from the Clay County Schools Internet Acceptable Use Policy. The entire policy is available for review in the principal's office or on the Clay County Schools website, www.clayschools.org/ . All students will be expected to sign an Internet Use Agreement on the first day of school.

Internet access providing vast, diverse and unique resources to both students and staff is now available to Clay County Schools (CCS). Our goal is to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communication.

The Internet is an electronic highway connecting thousands of computers all over the world and millions of individual subscribers. With worldwide access comes the availability of material that may not be of educational value. CCS has taken precautions to restrict access to inappropriate materials. On a global network it is impossible to control all materials, and users may encounter objectionable material. However, CCS believes that access to valuable information and the interaction available through the network outweighs this possibility.

Internet access is coordinated through an association of government agencies and regional and state networks. Smooth operation of the network relies upon the proper conduct of the users adhering to the guidelines and responsibilities noted in this policy. If a user violates any terms and conditions, his or her future access may be denied.

Internet Use - Terms and Conditions
1. Acceptable Use: [The use of the Internet] must support education and research and be consistent with the objectives of Clay County Schools. Use of other organization networks or computing resources must comply with the rules appropriate for that network. Transmission of material in violation of U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by trade secret. Commercial use and use for product advertisement and/or political lobbying is also prohibited.
2. Privileges: The use of the Internet [at school] is a privilege, and inappropriate use will result in the cancellation of privileges. Each user will receive direction in the proper use of the network. The system technology administrator will determine inappropriate use and may [cancel privileges] as required. The administration, faculty and staff of CCS may request that the system technology administrator deny, revoke or suspend specific user [privileges].
3. Network Etiquette: The user is expected to abide by the rules of network etiquette. They include, but are not limited to the following:
a. Do not use abusive, profane or vulgar language.
b. Illegal activities are strictly forbidden. Messages related to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.
c. Do not reveal addresses or phone numbers.
d. Note that e-mail is not guaranteed private. Operators of the system have access to all mail.
e. Do not use the network in such a way as to disrupt the use of the network by other users.
f. Understand that all communications and information accessible via the network are considered private property.
4. Liabilities: CCS makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the services provided. CCS is not responsible for damages suffered, including the loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, mis-deliveries or service interruptions caused by its own negligence or the users errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the user's own risk. CCS specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.
5. Security: Security is a high priority, especially when the computer system involves many users. If a user identifies a security problem on the Internet, he/she must notify a system technology administrator or the CCS Technology Coordinator. Attempts to breach security will result in the [denial of privileges].
6. Vandalism: Vandalism will result in the cancellation of privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy the data of another user, the Internet, or any of the networks that are connected to the National Science Foundation Network Internet backbone. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.

Parents' Right of Access to Student Records
Parents of students or 18-year-old students who wish to review any or all of the school records pertaining to the student should contact the school principal for an appointment. The records will be reviewed with school personnel, and parents may have copies of the records for the cost of copying.

If parents or adult students believe something in the records is inaccurate or misleading, they may request that it be corrected or they may have comments added to the record. If the principal and the parent or adult student cannot agree, the latter may contact the superintendent for a hearing.

Record information will not be released to most persons or agencies without the written consent of parents. It is the policy of this unit to forward school records, with parent consent, to schools in another unit to which a student transfers. Parents may request a copy of the record. Without parent consent, the unit forwards transcripts, or other information requested by high school students, to colleges and other educational institutions to which students are applying.

For a complete copy of the Clay County Schools student record policy, contact the school superintendent. Parents who have questions or concerns about the student record policy may direct them to the superintendent or the U.S. Department of Education.

Also, federal law permits a school unit to identify certain information as "Directory Information" which may be publicly released without the permission of parents. Clay County Schools identifies this information as the following: name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, diplomas and awards received, and most recent previous school attended. If you do not want this information released, please provide the school with written notification within 10 school days. If we do not receive your notice, we will assume that you have no objection to the release of such information. We believe that it is in the student's best interest to have such information released in school and community newspapers because of the recognition it gives them. We make every reasonable effort to protect our students' privacy. For example, it is our policy not to release information to businesses for commercial purposes or to individuals without good reason. Therefore, most parents do not restrict the release of directory information.

Search and Seizure Policy
Reference: New Jersey v T.L.O. 469 U.S. 325 (1985).

The Clay County Board of Education seeks to create a climate in the schools that assures the safety and welfare of all. To maintain order and discipline in the schools and to protect the safety and welfare of students and school personnel, school authorities may search a student, student lockers or student automobiles whenever a school administrator has reasonable suspicion to believe that illegal or unauthorized materials are concealed and may seize any stolen, illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials discovered in the search.

As used in this policy, the term "unauthorized" means any item dangerous to the health or safety of students or school personnel, or disruptive of any lawful function, mission or process of the school, or any item described as unauthorized in school rules available beforehand to the student.

All searches must be fair and reasonable under the circumstances. School personnel may conduct searches in any lawful manner, including, but not limited to, the use of metal detectors and/or canines. A student's failure to permit searches and seizures will be considered grounds for disciplinary action.


Personal Searches: A student's person and/or personal effects (e.g., purse, book bag, etc.) may be searched whenever a school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe that the student is in possession of illegal or unauthorized materials.

If a pat down search of a student's person is conducted, it will be conducted inprivate by a school official of the same sex and with an adult witness present, when feasible.

If the school official has reasonable suspicion to believe that the student has on his or her person an item imminently dangerous to the student or to others, a more intrusive search of the student's person may be conducted. Such a search may only be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex, with an adult witness of the same sex present, and only upon the prior approval of the Superintendent or his/her designee, unless the health or safety of students will be endangered by the delay which might be caused by following these procedures.

Locker Searches: Student lockers are school property and remain at all times under the control of the school; however, students are expected to assume full responsibility for the security of their lockers. Periodic general inspections of lockers may be conducted by the principal or designee for any reason at any time without notice, without student consent and without a search warrant.

At the time of locker assignment or registration, students will be informed of the conditions of use governing the locker.

Automobile Searches: Students are permitted to park on school premises in assigned areas as a matter of privilege, not of right. The school retains the authority to conduct routine patrols of student parking lots and inspections of the exteriors of students' automobiles on school property. The interiors of student vehicles may be inspected whenever a school administrator has reasonable suspicion to believe that illegal or unauthorized materials are contained inside. Such patrols and inspections may be conducted without notice, without student consent and without a search warrant.

Seizure of Illegal Materials: If a properly conducted search yields illegal or contraband materials, such findings shall be turned over to the proper legal authorities for disposition and the school administration shall inform the parents or guardians of the student. The student may be prosecuted under the criminal laws of this state or nation.

If feasible and practicable the student shall be given the opportunity to be present when a search of personal possessions is conducted, if he is in attendance and if there is no reason to believe that his presence would endanger health or safety.

Students shall not bring to school weapons, firearms or other possessions reasonably determined by the proper school authority to be a threat to the safety or security of themselves or others. Any such items may be subject to seizure. Students shall not secrete evidence of an illegal act or school violation.


Sexual Harassment Policy
The Clay County Board of Education is committed to providing an environment in which all employees and students have the right to be free from sexual harassment. The Board is strongly opposed to sexual harassment in any form, anywhere in the school system. Sexual harassment covers all unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and any other verbal or physical expression that is either an implicit or explicit condition or basis of an employment decision or that has the effect of interfering with an individual's work environment or student learning environment. Such harassment by supervisors and/or employees or students will not be tolerated and may lead to immediate dismissal or suspension. It shall be the duty of all supervisors, teachers and students to be sensitive to harassing behavior or conditions and to initiate corrective action immediately when these are suspected or actually known. If an employee believes that he/she is a victim of sexual harassment, the employee is to immediately, without fear of recrimination, file a complaint through the established grievance procedure. Students should report any unwelcome advances to the principal or assistant principal

Sportsmanship Policy
It shall be the policy of the Clay County Board of Education to promote good sportsmanship practices at all athletic events by players, school personnel, parents and fans, both at home and at events held at other schools.

1. The administration, coaches and players will be held accountable for adhering to all rules of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association and to all practices that constitute fair play and courtesy, and that reflect positively upon our teams, school and community.
2. While participating at the highest competitive level possible, our staff and teams shall extend hospitality and courtesy to all visiting teams and officials.
3. Students and fans shall be encouraged and expected to cheer enthusiastically for our teams and players and refrain from taunts or verbal abuse directed toward another team, player or official.
4. Persons under the influence of alcohol or other substances, if detectable, shall be denied admission to any athletic event.
5. Staff members designated for security, as well as all school personnel in attendance, shall be responsible for helping enforce the above policies at all athletic events.
6. Persons displaying recurrent misbehavior and poor sportsmanship may be denied admission to Hayesville High School athletic events for a determined length of time, or may be removed from an event if their behavior becomes uncontrolled or disruptive.

Student Restraint/Seclusion/Isolation Policy (abridged)

The Clay County Board of Education believes that ensuring safety for student and staff is essential. Securing order in the school environment sometimes requires that student be subject to greater controls than those appor4priate for adults. Except as restricted or prohibited by rules adopted by the Board of Education, principals, teachers, substitute teachers, voluntary teachers, teacher assistants, and student teachers may use reasonable force in the exercising of lawful authority to restrain or correct students and maintain order. (North Carolina G.S. 115C-390)

Notwithstanding any Board of Education policy, school personnel may use reasonable forece, including corporal punishment, to control behavior or to remove a person from the scene in those situations when necessary:

•  To quell a disturbance threatening injury to others;

•  To obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects on their person, or with the control, of the student;

•  For self-defense;

•  For the protection of persons or property, or

•  To maintain order on school property, in the classroom, or at a school related activity on or off school property. (North Carolina G.S. 115C-391a)

Notwithstanding any other law, no officer or employee of the Board of Education shall be held civilly liable for using reasonable force, including corporal punishment, in conformity with State Law.

This policy in its entirety will be distributed to each student on the first day of school or on the first day a student enrolls in Hayesville High School.

Weapons and Violence Policy
The Clay County Board of Education practices zero tolerance with respect to weapons and violence on school property. In accordance with G.S. 115C-228 [North Carolina Code], all principals are required to immediately report the following acts (a-p) that occur on school grounds:


a. Physical assault resulting in serious personal injury
b. Sexual assault
c. Sexual offense
d. Rape
e. Kidnapping
f. Indecent liberties with a minor
g. Assault involving the use of a weapon
h. Possession of a firearm in violation of the law
i. Possession of a weapon in violation of the law
j. Possession of a controlled substance in violation of the law
k. Murder
l. Robbery with a dangerous weapon
m. Physical assault of a teacher or other school official
n. Theft of a motor vehicle
o. Arson
p. Breaking and entering


The term "immediately" means that the act ust be reported the same day. The principal or assistant principal has the duty to report the offense. If the principal or assistant principal is absent, the superintendent or assistant superintendent must be notified. This reporting requirement does not replace the obligation to apply school discipline policies

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