NORTH AUGUSTA HIGH SCHOOL

2000 Knobcone Avenue

North Augusta, SC 29841

(803) 442-6100           Fax (803)442-6127

Dear Students and Parents/Guardians:

Welcome to North Augusta High School.  We look forward to working with you during the 2009-2010 academic year in fulfilling your educational goals.  North Augusta High School has a history of fine academic and extracurricular accomplishments.  We are proud of this excellent tradition and have high expectations for our students. 

As a student at North Augusta High School, you can benefit most during your tenure by being actively involved in your academics. Attend class everyday, pay attention in class, do your homework, ask relevant questions, and study!  I encourage you to be involved in extra-curricular activities but remember the most important task you will have during your high school years is your academic work! 

Our faculty and staff are here to help you make your high school experience as successful, yet educationally challenging, as possible.  If you encounter difficulties, seek out any of our professional staff, and we will do our best to help you.  We want you to be successful!

This agenda is designed to give you and your parents’ pertinent information concerning North Augusta High School.  Please read this agenda and keep it with you while at school.  It is the responsibility of each student and parent to become familiar with these policies.

Additional school board policies can be located at the Aiken County Schools website. 

Again, we welcome you and wish you a successful and enjoyable year.

Sincerely,

Kyle Smith

Principal

__________________________________________

Student Name

_______________________________________

Homeroom Teacher

“Learning today for a better tomorrow”

North Augusta High School Mission and Beliefs

The mission of North Augusta High School is to graduate students with the competence to contribute substantially to the world in which we live and to become effective lifelong learners and responsible citizens.  To this end, North Augusta High School promotes the development of the skills, knowledge and personal qualities that characterize a well-educated person.

Fundamental Values (Beliefs) of North Augusta High School

• Students are the center of the educational process. 
• Students learn best in a safe environment nurtured by highly qualified teachers who aspire to facilitate excellent instructional methods and maximize instructional time.
• A challenging and balanced curriculum ensures that students communicate effectively, compute accurately, think critically, and act responsibly. 
• Education is the shared responsibility of home, school, and community. 
• Keeping up with technology in the classroom is essential to prepare students for success in tomorrow's world.

Aiken County Public Schools Mission

The mission of the Aiken County School District is to engage every student in educational experiences that develop maximum individual potential by creating and sustaining a secure learning environment of excellence (facilitated by highly professional educators and support staff in concert with parents and the community) so that all learners acquire knowledge, critical thinking patterns, social skills, and character necessary to live a life of quality in an increasingly global society.

Fundamental Values (Beliefs) of Aiken County Schools

This district will be known for

• Safe learning environments where every student has the opportunity to achieve developmental outcomes at the highest potential,
• Highly qualified educators and competent support persons who can orchestrate and facilitate exceptional learning outcomes at every level and who continue to grow personally and professionally throughout their careers,
• Facilities that nurture effective learning practices for all students,
• A transportation system that is safe, efficient, and accessible to all students,
• Appropriate use of technology to further learning and to make information management more productive, and,
• An organizational culture that encourages integrity, collegiality, high expectations for student success, student, parental and community engagement, and continuous improvement.

North Augusta High School

Alma Mater

In the hills of Carolina

Stands my Alma Mater fair

My beloved North Augusta

With whom no other can compare.

*Twas there that teachers lent their aid

To guide my climbing steps,

And taught me how to drink the cup

Of knowledge to its depths.

(*Repeat)

Chorus

Thy praise I sing to North Augusta!

My love abides with thee.

You have my heart’s devotion,

And forever, my loyalty,

Thy praise I sing, North Augusta.

My love abides with thee.

Soon the parting time will come.

We must each go a different way.

While in your walls you gave to me

A gift I shall keep for aye.

*My heart is bound by memory’s chain

Within each room and hall

Of my noble Alma Mater—

The fairest school of all.

(*Repeat)

North Augusta High School

Fight Song

Oh. we’re the N.A. Yellow Jackets

black and gold forever more.

Yes, we’re the N. A. Yellow Jackets

with the power that will score.  RAH, RAH, RAH!

Got a sting that’s strong enough

to frighten any foe.

Yes we’ve got the power

And the get up and go.

Oh, we’re the N.A. Yellow Jackets

black and gold forever more.

North Augusta High School

General Information

North Augusta High School

Main Office 803-442-6100

FAX 803-442-6127

BELL SCHEDULES

Regular Schedule (#1)

1^st period                       8:15 – 9:10

2^nd period                      9:16 – 10:06

3^rd period                      10:13 – 11:03

4^th period          A          1^st lunch 11:03 – 11:28 with class 11:34 – 12:30

                        B         class 11:09 – 11:34(2^nd lunch 11:34 – 11:59) class 12:05 – 12:30

C         class 11:09 – 12:05 with 3^rd lunch 12:05 – 12:30

5^th period                      12:36 – 1:27

6^th period                      1:33 – 2:23

7^th period                      2:29 – 3:20

Activity Schedule (#2)

1^st period                       8:15 – 9:00

2^nd period                      9:06 – 9:47

Homeroom                  9:54 – 10:43

3^rd period                      10:49 – 11:30

4^th period          A         1^st lunch 11:30 – 11:55 with class 12:01 – 12:57

                        B         class 11:36– 12:01 (2^nd lunch 12:01 – 12:26) class 12:32 – 12:57

           C         class 11:36 – 12:32 with 3^rd lunch 12:32 – 12:57         

5^th period                       1:03 – 1:45

6^th period                      1:51 – 2:32

7^th period                      2:38 – 3:20

Early Release Schedule (#3)

1^st period                       8:15 – 8:50

2^nd period                      8:56 – 9:26

3^rd period                      9:33 – 10:03

4^th period                      10:09 – 10:39

5^th period         A         1^st lunch 10:39 – 11:04 with class 11:10 – 12:06

                        B         class 10:45 – 11:10 (2^nd lunch 11:10 – 11:35) class 11:41 – 12:06

C         class 10:45 – 11:41 with 3^rd lunch 11:41 – 12:06

6^th period                      12:12– 12:42

7^th period                      12:48 – 1:20

Twenty Minute Homeroom Schedule (#4)

1^st period                       8:15 – 9:05

2^nd period                      9:11 – 9:58

Homeroom                  10:05 – 10:25

3^rd period                      10:31 – 11:17

4^th period         A         1^st lunch 11:17 – 11:42 with class 11:48 – 12:43

                        B         class 11:23 – 11:48 (2^nd lunch 11:48 – 12:13) class 12:19 – 12:43

C         class 11:23 – 12:18 with 3^rd lunch 12:18 – 12:43

5^th period                      12:49 – 1:35

6^th period                      1:41– 2:27

7^th period                      2:33 – 3:20

SECTION I - PROGRAM OF STUDIES

South Carolina

High School Diploma Program

Total Units – 24

                        English                                                  4 units

                        Mathematics                                                     4 units

                        Science*                                                          3 units

                        U.S. History and Constitution                            1 unit   

                        Economics (1/2); Government (1/2)                  1 unit

                        Other Social Studies                                         1 unit

                        Physical Education or NJROTC                        1 unit

                        Foreign Language or Career Technology           1 unit   

                        Computer Science**                                        1 unit

                        Electives                                                           7 units

                        Total                                                               24 units

* One unit of physical science must be completed by the end of the 10^th grade, of which an end-of-course examination must be administered.  Students who are accelerated may take an alternate course sequence – one unit of chemistry and one unit of physics –by the end of the 10^th grade and take a physical science end-of –course examination.

**All students must pass a keyboarding course or a proficiency test in keyboarding.

Additional Information

Students who have completed the required credits but have NOT passed the South Carolina Exit Examination will receive a Certificate of Attendance. Students who have been enrolled in special education programs may receive a district certificate after 12 years of school or an Aiken County Employability Skills (ACES) diploma. A student may participate in graduation exercises only once.

Exit Examination

All students are required to earn a minimum score on both sub-tests of the South Carolina High School Assessment Program (HSAP) to obtain a State High School Diploma. The sub-tests are in English Language Arts and mathematics. Students will have as many as four chances to pass all the sub-tests.  Students who score below standard on any of the sub-tests are required to participate in a remediation class.

Course Load for Students

Students in grades 9 – 11 are required to be enrolled in a minimum of 6 courses per semester. Students in grade 12 must be enrolled in at least 5 courses per semester.  Early dismissal is not allowed for students in grades 9 - 11.  Seniors are allowed early dismissal only if the schedule permits. 

Classification of Students

Assignment of students to homerooms shall be determined at the beginning of the school year and shall be based upon unit requirements for each grade.

Grade Nine - A student will be classified as a 9^th grader (freshman) during his/her first year in school after having met the requirements of grade eight for ninth grade placement.

Grade Ten - A student will be classified as a 10^th grader (sophomore) during his/her second school year beyond the eighth grade, provided he/she has earned a minimum of five (5) units toward graduation. One (1) credit must be Language Arts and one (1) credit must be in math.

Grade Eleven - A student will be classified as an 11^th grader (junior) during his/her third school year beyond the eighth grade, provided he/she has earned a minimum of eleven (11) units toward graduation. Two (2) credits must be in Language Arts and two (2) credits must be in math.

Grade Twelve - A student will be classified as a 12^th grader (senior) during his/her fourth school year beyond grade eight, provided he/she has earned at least seventeen (17) units toward graduation. Three (3) of these credits must be Language Arts and three (3) in mathematics and two (2) in science.

Early Graduation

A student who plans to graduate from the eleventh grade and participate in the graduation exercises at the end of the school year must sign an early graduation intent form prior to the beginning of the second semester of the eleventh grade. Failure to turn in this form to the guidance office will prevent the student from participating in the graduation exercises, but will not prevent him/her from receiving a diploma if all requirements have been met. 

A student graduating from the junior class will be:

- Eligible to graduate with honors

- Eligible to order a class ring, cap and gown, invitations, and participate in graduation

- included in practice sessions for graduation

- placed with the junior class in the annual. 

Students graduating from the junior class will not be eligible:

- For senior privileges

- To attend senior class meetings

- Homeroom reassignment (after first semester)

College Preparatory Course Requirements

Four (4) Units of English: At least two units must have strong grammar and composition components, one must be in English literature, and one must be in American literature. Completion of College Preparatory English I, II, III, and IV will meet this criterion.

Four (4) Units of Mathematics: These include Algebra I (for which Applied Mathematics I and II may count together as a substitute if a student successfully completes Algebra II), Algebra II, and Geometry. A fourth higher-level mathematics course is strongly recommended. The fourth course should be selected from among pre-calculus, calculus or statistics.

One (1) unit of Physical Science: Students must pass a high school credit course in science (beginning with the graduating class of 2010) in which an end-of-course examination is administered.  Physical Science will remain the required and tested course until the biology assessment is approved by the US Department of Education.

Three (3) Units of Laboratory Science: Two units must be taken in two different fields and selected from among biology, chemistry, or physics. The third unit may be from the same field as one of the first two units (biology, chemistry, or physics).

Two (2) Units of the Same Foreign Language: Many colleges require three years of a foreign language.  North Augusta High strongly recommends a minimum of three years.

Three (3) Units of Social Science: One unit of U.S. History is required; a half unit of Economics and a half unit in Government are also required.

One (1) Unit of Physical Education or ROTC

Four (4) Units of Electives: Four college preparatory units must be taken from three different fields selected from among computer science, English, fine arts, foreign languages, humanities, laboratory science (excluding earth science, general physical science, general environmental science, or other introductory science courses for which biology and/or chemistry is not a prerequisite), mathematics above the level of Algebra II, and social sciences. It is suggested that one unit be in Computer Science which includes programming (i.e., not just keyboarding) and one unit in Fine Arts.

Note: Colleges can make exceptions in admitting students who do not meet all of the prerequisites. Exceptions are generally limited to cases in which the failure to meet one or more prerequisites is due to circumstances beyond the reasonable control of the student, or  have taken the Tech Prep (Applied Academics) courses rather than the required college preparatory curriculum described above but meet all other institutional admissions criteria.  Please contact universities/colleges to receive specific guidelines regarding required courses.

State Uniform Grading Policy -- grades nine through twelve

The Uniform Grading Policy is a state-mandated grade point table used to calculate grade point ratios and determine class rank.  Classes are weighted based on difficulty.

Legend: CP - College Preparatory; GT - Gifted and Talented; AP - Advanced Placement;

IB - International Baccalaureate

Calculation of the grade point ratio (GPR) and class ranking procedure

The state-mandated uniform grading scale and method for calculating GPR and determining class rank will apply to all courses taken by a student carrying Carnegie units, including units earned at the middle school level.  The student with the highest rank and the student with the second highest rank, will be named valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. Computations of GPR will not be rounded to a higher number. The number will consist of a whole number and two numbers to the right of the decimal point. All diploma candidates in the class are included in the ranking.

Course withdrawals (District Policy IKA)

With the first day of enrollment as the baseline, students who withdraw from a course within five days in a semester course or ten days in a yearlong course will do so without penalty.  Students who unilaterally withdraw from a course after these time limitations will be assigned a course grade of “WF” (Withdrawn Failing) and the “F” (numerical grade of 62 and 0 quality points) will be calculated in the student’s overall grade point ratio.  Level changes will be considered no later than three days after the first interim report for a semester class and no later than three days after the end of the first quarter for year-long courses for students with inadequate performance. (Inadequate performance is defined as less than a numerical grade of 77.) The “WF” penalty for course withdrawals in excess of the time limitations will not apply to course or level changes initiated by administration.

Credit Recovery/Online Courses

In an effort to encourage students to remain on grade level, students who fail a course with a minimum grade of 61 are permitted to participate in credit recovery classes (including online courses).  Upon successful completion of a credit recovery course, a final grade of 70 will be recorded in lieu of the actual grade.  Coursework must be taken from an accredited institution and approved by the student’s guidance counselor before beginning a course.  Coursework must also be completed in an acceptable amount of time.

A student may also register for and participate in online courses from the South Carolina virtual school https://blackboard.myscschools.com/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp or any other accredited online program.  Again, coursework must be approved by the student’s guidance counselor before beginning a course.  Contact the guidance office for more information regarding these programs

A maximum of three (3) credit recovery/online courses may be taken per year and a maximum of twelve (12) credit recovery/online courses may be taken during high school.

Retaking courses

Students may retake the same course at the same level under the following conditions:

1.  Only courses in which a D or an F was earned may be retaken;

2.  A passed course may only be retaken once at the same level;

3. If a course is in a sequential manner, the re-taken course must be in the proper sequence.

The student’s record will reflect all courses taken and the grade earned, with the exception that students taking courses for a Carnegie unit prior to the ninth grade year may retake any such course during the ninth grade year. In this case, only the ninth grade retake grade will be used in figuring the GPR and only the ninth grade attempt will show on the transcript.

Grading System (District Policy IHA)

Student performance will be evaluated based on state standards, academic plans, IEP’s, textbooks and teacher-made assessments, and other available methods. Student conduct will be excluded from consideration in determining a student’s grade.

Grading Scales

Letter Grade              Numerical Grade

A                                 93-100 Superior

B                                  85-92 above Average

C                                 77-84 Average

D                                 70-76 below Average

F                                  0-69 Failing

I                                   Incomplete

FA                               No credit (usually due to absences)

WF                              62

Gifted and Talented

The Aiken County Public Schools serve identified gifted and talented students according to State Regulation R-43-220 and the policies of the local School Board.  G/T classes are offered through our English department.

Advanced Placement

College-level coursework is available to sophomores, juniors and seniors. These courses require extensive work studies and commitment. College credit is available.

International Baccalaureate Program

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program is a two-year curriculum that is recognized world-wide. IB courses are taken in the junior and senior years.  Students may receive college credit for their work

Honor Roll

The Principal’s Honor Roll is composed of students that receive all “A”s.

The A/B Honor Roll is composed of students that receive “A”s and “B”s

SAT Test Dates for 2009-2010

*October 10, 2009      November 7, 2009             December 5, 2009       *January 23, 2010              March 13, 2010            May 1, 2010                      *June 5, 2010

* - the test will be held at North Augusta High School

ACT Test Dates for 2009-2010

September 12, 2009                             October 24, 2009                    December 12, 2009

February 6, 2010                                  April 10, 2010                          June 12, 2010

Notes: 

Students should complete Geometry and Algebra 2 prior to taking the SAT or ACT.

See your guidance counselor for more information.

The SAT will be administered at NAHS on October 10, January 23, and June 5.

Please register for SAT and ACT tests at least six (6) weeks prior to test date. 

Register at http://www.collegeboard.com/ or http://www.act.org/.

Available South Carolina scholarships

1)  Palmetto Fellows Scholarship – Up to $6700 each academic year

General Requirements for High School Graduates

• Must enroll in a South Carolina four-year or two-year, public or private institution within 2  years and 3 months of graduation
• Must be a South Carolina resident for in-state tuition purposes.
• Must not have been convicted of any felony or alcohol/drug related offense.

Eligibility Requirements: (must meet all three requirements)

• GPA 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale)                                             
• SAT 1200 (Math and Verbal) or ACT 27
• Top 6% of the graduating class

2)  LIFE Scholarship – Up to $5000 each academic year

General Requirements for High School Graduates

• Must enroll in a SC four-year or two-year, public or private institution within 2 years and 3 months of graduation.
• Must be a South Carolina resident for in-state tuition purposes.

Eligibility Requirements: (must meet 2 of the 3 requirements)

• 3.0 cumulative GPA (based on SC Uniform Grading Scale) upon high school graduation           
• SAT 1100 or ACT 24 through June of the senior year.
• Top 30% of the graduating class

3)  HOPE Scholarship – Up to $2650 for one academic year only

General Requirements for High School Graduates

• Must enroll in a South Carolina four-year or two-year, public or private institution within 2 years and 3 months of graduation.
• Must be a South Carolina resident for in-state tuition purposes.

Please Note:

1. The GPA can be calculated on a weighted or un-weighted scale and must be calculated after the eighth semester.  These regulations are subject to change by the South Carolina State General Assembly.

2. These scholarships are available only when enrolling at in-state colleges.

For more comprehensive information, visit http://www.che.400.state.sc.us/

SECTION II – ATTENDANCE

Attendance is a key factor in student achievement.  Any absence from school represents an educational loss to the student.  However, we recognize some absences are unavoidable. 

Attendance Requirements

·        Attendance is recorded on a class-by-class basis. Students must attend each instructional period a minimum number of days to be eligible to receive credit.

·        The minimum number of days a student must attend a class to receive academic credit is 85 days for a semester (1/2 unit) class, and 170 days for a year (unit) class.

·        All absences (lawful or unlawful) are charged against the maximum allowed.

·        Any student who fails to meet the minimum attendance requirements will not receive credit for any class in which attendance requirements were not met unless approval for excessive absences is given by the principal in cases of chronic or extended illness or in emergency situations.

·        Lawful absences include:

·        Medical absences certified by a physician or other health provider.

·        Required court appearance certified by a statement from an officer of the court.

·        Death in the family (certification may be required).

·        Recognized religious holidays.

·        Emergencies approved by the principal.

·        Chronic or extended illness (certified by a physician or other health provider).

·        Other absences approved by the Aiken County Board of Education.

·        Unlawful absence from school is defined as a student’s absence from school without an approved reason with or without the knowledge of the parents.  (Personal business/family business is considered unlawful.)

Excuses

An absence from school requires a note from a parent/legal guardian or physician on the day the student returns to school after an absence. 

** In all cases, excuses for school absences must be presented to the attendance office before school (7:45 AM – 8:10 AM) on the day the student returns to school. 

An absence note from a parent or guardian should contain the following information:

a. Student's full name and grade level

b. Date of absence and reason

c. Parent's or Guardian's signature and telephone number

d. An attached doctor's statement (if applicable)

Excuses will only be accepted within five (5) days of absence (District Policy JBD).  The failure to turn in an excuse within the five-day period will result in the absence being recorded as an unlawful absence regardless of the reason.

Sign-in Procedures

·  All students, who arrive late to school, must sign in at the Attendance Office.

·  Students who arrive late to school are assigned consequences according to the tardy policy unless the tardy is excused.

·  Tardies may be excused under the following conditions:

·        Students who ride a bus and are late due to bus problems. The student must sign in at the Transportation Office. Failure to properly sign-in will result in the tardy being unexcused.

·        Students who present a statement from a physician or health care provider indicating the tardy is due to medical reasons.

·        Students who present a statement from a court officer for a required court appearance.

Tardy to School

1^st Tardy – Warning

2^nd Tardy – Lunch detention

3^rd Tardy – After-school detention

4^th Tardy – Suspension/Parent Conference/School Parking Pass Suspended

Subsequent Tardies – Suspension/Report made to Truancy Officer

Tardy  to class regulations

Promptness is expected; tardiness to class is simply unacceptable.  Tardiness is defined as the arrival of a student in the classroom beyond the scheduled time that the class or homeroom is to begin.  Students who are tardy interrupt instruction, distract other students, and miss instruction time.  Tardiness is both an attendance and a discipline problem.  The following consequences will apply to student tardiness:

1^st – 4^th offense:                      Lunch Detention

5^th offense                               After-school detention

6^th offense                               After-school detention

7^th offense                               1 day In-School Suspension

8^th offense                               2 days In-School Suspension

9^th offense                               3 days In-School Suspension

10 or more                              Expulsion Recommendation

*No exception to serving detention will be made due to work or transportation issues.

*Failure to serve detention will result in the student being suspended.

Sign-out Procedures

• All students who leave campus before the end of the school day are required to sign out in the Attendance Office. The only exceptions are for permanent early dismissal students and for students on a school field trip. 
• It is preferred that a student is signed out by his/her parent.  However, a signed note from the parent may be submitted to the attendance office the morning the student will be signing out of school.  A phone number must be included for verification purposes.
• Students who drive to school still must follow the sign out procedure.

Early Dismissal (District Policy IED)

• All students shall remain in classes for the entire school day.  Early dismissal from school is permitted for senior students and students enrolled in a 7:10 AM class.
• All early dismissal requests are subject to the approval of the Area II Superintendent.
• Students approved for early dismissal must leave campus immediately after dismissal and must not return to campus for any reason without permission from the principal.
• Failure to abide by the rules for early dismissal will result in the early dismissal privilege being revoked.

Intervention

 An automated telephone call is made when a student misses at least two classes on a school day. When a student is unlawfully absent for three consecutive days, the school will attempt to establish contact with the parent/guardian of the student to arrange a conference. During the conference, a plan will be developed to insure that the parent/guardian, student, and the school have an understanding regarding the future attendance of the student.

Student make up work

When a student is absent from school or class for any reason, it is his/her responsibility to make up all work.  Assignments are posted and can be accessed via the Internet on any computer.  Students who do not have access to a computer may contact the guidance office.  Students will have one day per each excused day absent to make up work missed.

SECTION III - STUDENT CONDUCT

Authority of Staff

The principal, assistant principals, administrative staff, and teachers of this school are vested with legal authority, given to them by the State and local School Board. Refusal on the part of the student to respect this authority shall be considered as insubordinate conduct and dealt with as outlined in discipline procedures.

Behavioral Code of Conduct

Follow these simple rules: 

1) Be in the right place, at the right time, doing the right thing!

2) Treat others as you would like to be treated! (with respect and dignity)

Students thrive in an orderly and positive learning environment.  It is the responsibility of administrators, teachers, students, and parents to ensure that our students are focused on preparing for success.  Therefore, we adhere to the following discipline code:

Expectations

1.   Appropriate school behavior and out-of-classroom behavior that demonstrates respect for personal and property rights of students, faculty, and staff.

2.   Arrival at school and to class on time.

3.   Appropriate use and care of the buildings and facilities of the school.

4.   Cooperation with the school staff to meet the varied educational needs of all students.

5.  Adherence to acceptable standards of courtesy, decency, and morality.

6.  Compliance with provisions of civil law.

Consequences

Failure to meet the school's behavioral expectations will result in specific consequences for infractions. In assigning consequences, the administration makes every effort to consider all evidence presented and to issue consequences consistent with all other like cases.

Consequences may include:

1. Warning: In some instances a warning may be issued -- however, the student is responsible for knowing and following school policies and procedures.

2.  Conference: Parents of students may be required to come to the school for a conference at a time convenient to the parent, teacher, and administrator.  The purpose of the conference will be to explore reasons for the student's misbehavior and to develop a plan to prevent further abuse of policies.

3.   Detention: Detention is assigned to a student for tardies and minor discipline violations.    Tardy detentions are scheduled on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during all lunches.  Regular detentions are assigned after school on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

      Students who are assigned detention have 24 hours to notify parents and/or employers.  No exception to serving after-school detention will be made because of work or transportation. 

4. In-School Suspension: In-School Suspension is assigned for violations of school policies.  The student attends school and is provided school assignments, but is not permitted to attend regular classes. 

5. Out-Of-School Suspension: A student may be referred to an administrator for disciplinary action, which may include suspension from school. Out-of-School Suspension is a severe consequence and may be one to ten days.  A conference between the administration and the parents is required prior to the student's return.

6. Expulsion: A student will be recommended for permanent removal from the school for the remainder of the year

7. Arrest: A student will be arrested and prosecuted for: fighting or assaulting another person; using, possessing, and/or selling drugs or alcohol; excessive verbal abuse of school staff; endangering the lives and welfare of others, and other illegal activities. (Any student guilty of turning in a false fire alarm or bomb threat is subject to expulsion, arrest, and/or a fine).

Dress Code

The School Board recognizes that students have the right to regulate their personal appearance.  However, the Board reserves the right to bar from school students whose personal appearance is disruptive to the educational  and orderly operation of the school. 

1.  Pants, skirts, and shorts must be knee length or longer when standing, and worn to the waist with no underwear or undergarments showing.  Pants, shirts, and shorts with holes/cuts/kick-pleats above the knee are not permitted.

2.  Clothing sizes should be appropriate. Ridiculous over-sizing is not accepted.

3.   Shoes must be worn at all times. 

4.  Shirts must completely cover the front, back, stomach, and the sides from the shoulder to the waist when students raise their arms. All tops must cover the shoulder area (four fingers wide), no spaghetti straps, and must not expose cleavage.

5.  Any attire that disrupts/interferes with the educational process is prohibited.  Clothing deemed distracting, revealing, overly suggestive, or disruptive is not permitted.

6.  Hats, caps, hoods, scarves or any form of sweatband are not to be worn in the building.

7.  Students are not to wear conspicuous or ridiculous costumes.  Inappropriate language, alcohol, tobacco products, gang-related clothing or drug symbols are not permitted.

8.  The following items are not permitted: wallet chains, clothing with imprinting in poor taste, sheer shirts/blouses, clothing exposing the midriff, backless sundresses, etc.

9.   Inappropriate clothing can be confiscated.

Care of School Property

Students have traditionally displayed pride and respect for our school. You are urged to continue this tradition of good citizenship. Students are required to refrain from:

1. Eating or drinking in the classroom, halls, or main building courtyards.

2. Writing or placing stickers on any part of the buildings, walkways, or lockers.

3. Placing chewing gum on any surface, inside or outside.

4. Littering the grounds or building, especially the cafeteria and courtyards.

Sexual Harassment Statement

Students engaging in sexual harassment of any student, staff member, or visitor, either male or female, on a school property or while under the jurisdiction of the school, is considered a violation that is disorderly, disruptive, and/or criminal in nature and may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion in certain instances when it occurs while the student is on school property and/or under the jurisdiction of the school, including while riding a school bus. Sexual harassment may be generally defined as unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors, and written, spoken or physical conduct of a sexual nature.  Students who believe they may have been subjected to sexual harassment are encouraged to report the matter immediately to school officials.

SECTION IV - TRANSPORTATION (BUSES AND CARS)

Student Parking Permits

A parking permit is required and must be displayed on all vehicles parked on school grounds. Parking procedures and fees are explained on the information sheet accompanying the permit. A permit cannot be resold or transferred to another student.

Parking Regulations

The parking permit gives the student the privilege to park in the student parking area of North Augusta High School. Abuse of the privilege will result in loss of this privilege. Cars must be parked only in the areas designated for student parking. There is to be no parking on the grassy areas or on the streets coming into the campus. Vehicles illegally parked will be towed at the owner's expense.

The North Augusta High School parking lots are governed by North Augusta Department of Public Safety.  North Augusta High School assumes no responsibility for articles removed from a vehicle or any damage done to a vehicle while on school premises.

There is to be no loitering in cars or in the parking areas. Students are to leave their vehicles and the parking areas as soon as they arrive, and are not to return to them until the school day has ended. Special permission from the office is required for a student to return to the parking area during the school day. All vehicles parked on the school campus are subject to being searched at the discretion of the administration.

Students must observe the following regulations:

1. Speed limit - 10 mph

2. Park in designated spaces within white lines

3. Wear seatbelts

4. Give the right-of-way to school buses at all times on school grounds

5. Keep parking areas clean and free of debris

Note: Students with excessive tardies (5 per semester) will have parking privileges suspended.

Dropping Off and Picking Up Students

To insure the safety of all our students, please follow these procedures when dropping-off and picking-up your student at North Augusta High:

Use the designated circular drives – around the flagpole in front of the main building or the area between the auditorium and the gymnasium, nearer the stadium.  These areas were designed with our students' safety in mind.

Do not enter and use the teachers' parking area (beyond the flag pole driveway in front of the cafeteria).

Be alert to other cars and students any time you are driving on campus--please follow the speed limit of 10 mph and the school policies in the Parent/Student Handbook.

Bus Transportation

Students who ride the bus are under the supervision of the bus driver and are subject to the transportation regulations from the time they step on the bus until the school bus route is completed or until they arrive at their appropriate or normal destination. Students are to remain seated and display conduct that will not divert the attention of the driver. Failure to cooperate with the driver or the school bus patrol may give cause for temporary or permanent suspension from riding the bus. Some of the buses are equipped with video cameras. Inappropriate behavior will be dealt with according to the following regulations:

General Regulations Concerning Misconduct:

First Offense - Warning issued to student and parents advising them of misconduct, unless the offense is of a nature which school officials warrants a bus suspension.

Second Offense – The student will be suspended from riding the bus for a minimum period of five (5) school days, depending upon the nature of the offense and a letter to parents. If a student has already been suspended for one week, the suspension will be for two weeks.

Third Offense – The student will be suspended from riding the bus for a minimum period of ten (10) school days.  A conference between parent, assistant principal, bus supervisor, driver, and student may be required before bus privileges are restored.

Fourth Offense – The student will then be suspended from riding a school bus for the remainder of the current school year in progress. In such case, all circumstances will be thoroughly reviewed by school officials before the action is taken.  Once the action is taken, it may be appealed only to the Advisory Council and the Board of Education.

**Important Note**

School buses are an extension of the school.  All bus infractions and consequences will be recorded in the student's discipline file at school and will be considered by the administration in the future decisions related to the student's discipline. Fighting on the school bus is considered a serious violation as it places students’ lives in danger.  Fighting will result in school suspension and possible arrest by the local authorities. 

The bus parking lot is located behind the cafeteria and is off-limits to all students during the school day.  Bus concerns should  be referred to the bus supervisor in the bus office. The bus office is located on the campus of North Augusta Middle School (803-442-6106).

SECTION V - MISCELLANEOUS POLICIES/PROCEDURES

Aiken County Career and Technology Center

Buses depart North Augusta High School for the morning session at the Aiken County Career & Technology Center (ACC&TC) at 8:00 AM. Buses will return to the school at approximately 11:15 AM.  All morning Career Center students will be assigned a study hall fourth period to give ample time for them to return from the Career Center and eat lunch.  Buses depart North Augusta High School for the afternoon session at the Career Center at 11:30 AM.  Buses return to the high school at approximately 3:00 PM.  Students wishing to drive to the ACC&TC must receive permission from the Aiken County Career and Technology Center (803-593-7300).

Announcements/Bulletins

Announcements concerning meetings, athletic events, general information for the day, and specific instructions are made over the public address system each morning at the beginning of first period and also at the conclusion of 5^th period.  Announcements must be written on the announcement form, signed by a faculty member, and turned in to the office by 8:00 AM.  In addition, a daily bulletin is prepared and distributed to each classroom by email and on the school’s web site for parents’ information.

Cameras, CD players, tape players, MP3 players, radios, etc.

It is the policy of North Augusta High School that cameras, MP3 players, CD players, tape players, radios, etc. are not to be activated, used, or displayed by students while on campus or attending school-day activities (on or off school property).  These items are considered a disruption and will be confiscated. 

Cellular Phones/Communication Devices

Due to the proliferation of cell phones, the frequency of disciplinary infractions related to both the inadvertent and the intentional violations of the Code of Conduct rules, and with the increasing sophistication of these devices leading to the increasingly serious nature of some offenses (such as cheating, violations of privacy with unauthorized photographs, and similar issues), the Aiken County Board has placed much greater restrictions on the possession of phones at school and more serious consequences for the violations of these restrictions.

The changes may be summarized as follows:

a) Absolutely no “personal possession” of a cell phone during school hours

b) Phones must be left in vehicles or stored in a student’s locker.

Disciplinary consequences are:

          1^st offense  -         In-school suspension (1 day)

2^nd offense -         In-school suspension (3 days)

3^rd offense -         Out of school suspension and loss of privilege

4^th offense -         Expulsion       

Directory Information and FERPA

Under federal law, parents and students have a right to expect the confidentiality of student records. Educational agencies may act to declare certain aspects of a student's educational records to be "directory information," meaning information contained in such records which is not considered to be generally harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. The Aiken County Board of Education has previously determined that "directory information" could be released to third parties upon request, at the discretion of the school principal. Federal law and regulatory authority allows the release of such information without prior consent subject to certain conditions of pre-disclosure to parents or students. The purpose of this notice is to meet such pre-disclosure requirements.  Under District policy the following information is considered releasable: the student's name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, subjects of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of member of athletic teams, date of attendance (on both an annual and daily basis), diplomas and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student. (Examples of types of information frequently released include, but are not limited to: Senior Class listings, Annuals/Yearbooks, Science Fair winners, Students of the Month, Honor Roll lists, National Honor Society, athletic event programs, etc.) A parent who would prefer that any or all of the information designated above not be released without prior consent should so notify the office of the Deputy Superintendent in writing (1000 Brookhaven Drive, Aiken, SC 29803) no later than August 19, 2005.  Questions should be directed to Mr. David Caver, Deputy Superintendent, at (803) 641-2514.

Exams

School district policy states that cumulative semester examinations for semester and yearlong courses shall be administered for all courses.  All students shall be required to take the examinations except for seniors who may exempt the end of the year examinations if they earn a grade of "A" in the course.  The final grade for a two-semester course will be determined by an average of both semesters' grades.  Nine-week exams will be given at the end of the first and third nine-weeks.  Exams are extremely important and students are required to be in attendance on the scheduled date of exams.  Students are not permitted to take exams early.

Fire, earthquake, and tornado drills

    Safety drills at North Augusta High School are serious matters.  Look for posted fire drill and tornado drill cards and read the instructions.  When the signal for a fire drill is given, proceed quickly and quietly in the direction shown by the fire drill card or as instructed by school personnel.  Go single file down the hall,  proceed outside the building to the location directed by your teacher, and do not talk.  Stay with your class so that roll can be taken.  Remain outside until the signal is given for you to return to your class.

When a tornado drill is initiated, assume a duck-and-cover position on an interior wall away from glass and machinery. Remain in this position until given instructions by your teacher/administrator to end the drill.

Earthquake drills require that you duck and cover and then evacuate the building. 

Students are to follow all staff instructions during safety drills.

Flowers, gifts, balloons, etc.

Flowers, balloons, etc. will not be accepted by the school for students, nor may students have these items in their possession during school or on buses.

Food Deliveries

Food deliveries may not be made to students during the school day.

Guidance Services

Guidance services are available for every student in the school. These services include assistance with educational planning; interpretation of test scores; career information; study helps; help with home, school, and/or social concerns; or any questions the students may feel they would like to discuss with their counselor. Appointments should be made in advance, if possible, at 442-6103.

Hall Passes

Passes are provided in the student’s agenda and must be signed, dated, and timed by the teacher to whom the student is assigned.  Students in the hallways during instructional time without their agenda pass will be disciplined.

Identification Badges

We are in an era that causes us to be more concerned about identifying students who attend North Augusta High School.  Therefore, all students are required to wear identification badges (ID’s) while attending school, on school field trips, etc.  The following policy will be used to regulate the requirement:

1.  ID’s are North Augusta High property and are not transferable.

2.  ID’s must be visible, worn chest high, and on a breakaway lanyard.

3.  ID’s may not be damaged, written, or changed in any manner on either side.

4.  Only 2009-2010 North Augusta High School ID’s may be worn. 

Teachers will check ID’s each period.  Students who are present at school without an ID will be issued a temporary ID badge at a cost of $1.00.   After 5^th period, students who are not wearing ID’s will be assigned detention/Friday Twilight detention.

(Replacement ID's cost $5.00)  Senior lanyards cost $2.50. 

Students are strongly encouraged to purchase an extra ID.

Students may purchase temporary ID’s in the media center from 7:45 until 8:10 AM without any consequence, and during the first 5 minutes or the last 5 minutes of each class period.  During the school day, a teacher should sign each student’s agenda pass to the library to purchase a temporary ID.

Consequences for infractions of the ID policy:

Failure to wear an ID is considered a failure to comply with district policy and can result in suspension. 

The 3^rd time a student purchases a temporary ID and a loss of instruction occurs, the student will be assigned Friday twilight detention (3:35–5:00 PM).  Subsequent violations will result in work detail/suspension/expulsion.

Insurance

School insurance for students is sold during the first two weeks of school. The school insurance is presented through Standard Life Insurance Company of Rock Hill, S.C., and is available as a 24-hour Protection Plan or the less expensive School Day Plan.

Student-athletes must provide evidence of being properly covered under their own insurance programs or purchase the school insurance.

The school acts as a medium in supplying the insurance and assumes no liability for negotiations with the company. Other than those exceptions mentioned above, the student insurance is strictly optional. Claim forms are available in the main office.

Elizabeth Godfrey Media Center

The Elizabeth Godfrey Media Center is a place for reading and study.  Students are encouraged to use the media cente for their school assignments as well as for their own reading enjoyment.  Every effort will be made to have materials students want and need for their assignments and leisure reading.  Passes to the Augusta State University Library are available by request.

The Elizabeth Godfrey Media Center is open 7:45-4:00 PM.  A signed agenda by a teacher is required to go to the media center during class time.  This includes the lunch periods.   Students must sign in upon arrival.  No pass is required before or after school.

ID’s are required to check out Library materials.  The regular check out period for books is two weeks and fines are charged at $.10 per school day.  Reference, special teacher reserves, and magazines are for overnight check out only. These materials may be checked out at 3:20 p.m. and are due no later than 8:30 a.m. the next morning.  Exception: Seniors with Early Dismissal and Late Arrival IDs.  Fines for overnight materials are charged at $.10 per hour per school day.

The media center is part of the school/district network and has a computer lab of twelve computers with access to the Library’s Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC), the Internet, SCOIS, SAT Prep software, the South Carolina State Library Database (DISCUS Project), Microsoft Office software, and has a networked laser printer.  According to school district policy, NO disks from outside the media center may be used in any computers without being scanned for viruses by the Library Media Specialists.  This is to protect everyone from virus problems.  Violations of the District Acceptable Use Policy (see page 48) will terminate a student’s computer privileges on campus.  The media center has a coin operated copier available for students.  Copies are $.15 each; $.25-$.50 for color printouts.

Lockers

Each student is assigned a locker. The lockers are property of North Augusta High School and the responsibility of the student. Lockers should be kept neat, clean, and locked at all times. No writing is allowed on the inside or the outside of the lockers. 

Periodic inspections of the lockers will be held during the school year. Lockers and book bags are subject to search at any time at the discretion of the administration. 

Each locker has a combination lock.  No other lock is allowed.  Students are not permitted to share lockers.  Locker problems should be directed to the school administration.

Lost and Found

Inquiries concerning lost articles should be directed to the Attendance Office.

ID’s found by students or teachers should be turned in to the Media Center.

Lunch

Students should know the last five digits of their school identification number and provide those digits to the cashier when purchasing lunch or breakfast at school.

Enter the cafeteria only through the 2nd hall doors.  The 4th hall breezeway is not to be used as a pass through, including after school to go out to the parking lots. 

No food or drink is to be taken into any classrooms, halls, or other buildings.

Students may NOT charge their lunch.  

If you wish to purchase any extra items from the cafeteria, the extra items cannot come out of your lunch account.  You must pay cash for extra items.

All other areas are “off limits” during lunch, including classrooms, halls, all parking areas, bus area, the back and the front outsides of all buildings, and the outside area between the main building and the cafeteria.

Students must have passes signed agendas to visit other school areas during lunch.

Off-Limits Areas

The following areas are off-limits at all times between 8:15 am and 3:20 pm.

1.   Gymnasium/Auditorium -- unless assigned as part of an official class or permission to report to these rooms is obtained from school personnel.

2.   Parking lot areas -- including bus-parking area.

3.  Outside areas -- back and athletic field side of the gym, back of the main building, back of the fifth hall, back of the vocational building, back of the cafeteria, and all sides of the auditorium except the front patio area.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parents wishing conferences with teachers may arrange these meetings through the guidance office (442-6103). Guidance office hours are 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Medication Policy

Students are not permitted to take any medicine at school without a doctor’s prescription and/or written Aiken County School District Permission Form from a parent.  Please see the school nurse if you have any questions related to the medication policy.

Schedule Change/Dropping Course Policy

Schedule changes must be made prior to the beginning of school. After school begins, schedule changes will be made for one of the following reasons:

1.  Student has not passed the proper prerequisite.

2.  Student previously received credit for the course.

3.  Student is a senior and must take the course for graduation.

4.  Computer error.

5.  Counselor or administrator error.

Student Assistants

Student Assistant positions are available on a limited basis to students who have a study hall and maintain at least a C average in all classes. Students must fill out a request form each semester to have a schedule change made. This form may be picked up in the Guidance Office the week before each semester begins.  Forms must be returned by the end of the first week of the semester with the signature on the requesting staff member, the parent, and the student.

Driver education students also must fill out a request form if they would like to assist a teacher.  Failure to report, cutting, or absences, count under the absence policies getting credit for the course.

Summer School

North Augusta High School usually offers summer school classes.  To attend summer school at North Augusta High School or any other school, a student must have a pre-registration form signed by the counselor and the principal or an assistant principal.   A student may take up to two units in summer school. In order to receive credit, students must attend 120 hours for a one-unit course, and 60 hours for a half unit course.

Telephones

Students are not allowed to leave class for telephone calls.  Likewise, classes cannot be interrupted to deliver personal messages to students.  Only in the case of an emergency will the Attendance Office deliver messages to students.  Emergency phone calls may be made from the Attendance Office.  Students cannot make personal telephone calls.

Textbooks

Textbooks are owned by the state and are provided at no cost to the student. If additional textbooks are needed, approval must be granted by the principal and the student must pay for the additional textbook(s). Students should check all textbooks carefully, and inform his/her teacher of any previous damages or abuse to the textbook.  Each individual is responsible for the textbooks issued to him/her.  An individual must return all books signed out to them and pay for lost books or any damage to the books.  Questions or concerns about textbooks should be directed to Mr. Will Hudson, Assistant Principal.

Visitors

Visitors who have legitimate business at school are welcome.  Visitors must register in the main office, obtain principal’s approval and wear a visitor’s pass while in the building.   Parents are encouraged to visit the school, but must register in the main office.  Pre-school age children and students from other schools will not be issued visitor’s passes and should not be at school during normal school hours.

Valuables at School

Students should not bring large amounts of money or expensive items to school. It is very easy to have such items misplaced or stolen.  The school cannot assume responsibility for these items and will not compromise instructional time conducting investigations for items that should not be on campus.

Traditional Events at North Augusta High School

Homecoming is a designated home game during football season.  During halftime the homecoming queen is crowned, having been selected by the student body.

Christmas Assembly is held before the winter holidays.  The band and chorus present a program of Christmas music.

Ring Ceremony is held in the fall for members of the junior class who are receiving class rings.  Students must be a member of the junior class to participate.

Junior-Senior Prom is held in the spring and is sponsored by the Junior Class.

Yearbook Presentation is held in the spring when the yearbooks arrive.

Honors Day is held during May.  Students who have excelled in different phases of school life are awarded for their achievements.

Commencement consists of the Baccalaureate service and the graduation exercises when diplomas are awarded.

Educational Records—Confidentiality

(Certain Exceptions)

Under federal law parents and students have a right to expect the confidentiality of student records.  Educational agencies may act to declare certain aspects of a student’s educational records to be “directory information,” meaning information contained in such records which is not considered to be generally harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.  The Aiken County Board of Education has previously determined that
“directory information” could be released to third parties upon request, at the discretion of the school principal.  Federal law and regulatory authority allows the release of such information without prior consent subject to certain conditions of pre-disclosure to parents or students.  The purpose of this notice is to meet such pre-disclosure requirements.

Under District policy the following information is considered to be releasable:  the student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, subjects of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, date of attendance (on both an annual and daily basis), diplomas and awards received, photographs, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student.  (Examples of the types of information frequently released include, but are not limited to, Senior Class Listings, Annuals/Yearbooks, Science Fair Winners, Students of the Month, Honor Roll Lists, National Honor Society, athletic event programs, etc.).  A parent or guardian of a student attending Aiken County Public Schools who would prefer that any or all of the information designated above not be released without the parent’s or guardian’s prior consent should so notify the office of the Deputy Superintendent in writing (1000 Brookhaven Drive, Aiken, SC  29803) no later than August 27, 2007.  If there are any questions, please contact Mr. David M. Caver, Deputy Superintendent, at (803) 641-2514.

Clubs and Organizations

2009-2010

            NAME OF CLUB                                                      SPONSOR/S

CLASS ORGANIZATIONS

August 16 -22, 2009

August 23 - 29, 2009

August 30 – September 5, 2009

September 6 – 12, 2009

September 13 – 19, 2009

September 20 – 26, 2009

September 27 – October 3, 2009

October 4 – 10, 2009

October 11 – 17, 2009

October 18 – 24, 2009

October 25 – 31, 2009

November 1 – 7, 2009

November 8 – 14, 2009

November 15 – 21, 2009

November 22 – 28, 2009

November 29 – December 5, 2009

December 6 – 12, 2009

December 13 – 19, 2009

December 20 – 26, 2009

December 27 – January 2, 2010

January 3 – 9, 2010

January 10 – 16, 2010

January 17 – 23, 2010