Student Handbook

The Medford School District is committed to connecting school with your interests and aspirations. By selecting a Pathway, you also select courses and clubs or activities that fit your special interests and emerging career goals.

In the Medford School District, your journey to a hopeful career starts today!

The Pathway options are:

Career and Technical Education

Academic

Visual and Performing Arts

Each Pathway includes:

· Four relevant courses

· Opportunities to earn professional certifications, industry credentials, and/or college credits

· Participation in related clubs, activities, and student organizations

· A personalized post-high school career plan

Administration:

Coordinators: 

Counselors: 

Other:

South Medford High School is committed to excellence in academics and attendance. Full-time students may earn “Gold” or “Silver” stickers that will be placed on the back of their student I.D. card at the beginning of each semester. New students must earn an accumulated academic GPA of 3.0 or higher for 2 consecutive quarters to receive the designated benefits.

Freshmen

Gold Sticker (3.5-4.0 GPA & 93% attendance)

1. Panther Merchandise

Silver Sticker (3.0-3.49 GPA and 93% attendance)

1. Panther Merchandise

Sophomores

Gold Sticker (3.8-4.0 GPA & 93% attendance)

1. Panther Merchandise

2. $3 off ASB fee (valid during registration week only)

3. $5 off Yearbook (good through the end of 1st semester)

Silver Sticker (3.5-3.799 GPA & 93% attendance)

1. Panther Merchandise

2. $2 off ASB fee (valid during registration week only)

3. $3 off Yearbook (good through the end of 1st semester)

Juniors

Gold Sticker (3.8-4.0 GPA & 93% attendance)

1. Panther Merchandise

2. $2 off Gold Sticker parking

3. $3 off ASB fee (valid during registration week only)

4. $5 off Yearbook (good through the end of 1st semester)

5. $7 off the price of one (1) Prom ticket

Silver Sticker (3.5-3.799 GPA & 93% attendance)

1. Panther Merchandise

2. $2 off ASB fee (valid during registration week only)

3. $3 off Yearbook (good through the end of 1st semester)

4. $3 off the price of one (1) Prom ticket

Seniors

Gold Sticker (3.8-4.0 GPA & 93% attendance)

1. Panther Merchandise

2. $5 off Gold Sticker parking

3. $3 off ASB fee (valid during registration week only)

4. $5 off Yearbook (good through the end of 1st semester)

5. Two (2) extra graduation tickets

6. One (1) Homecoming ticket

7. $8 off the price of one (1) Prom ticket

8. $3 off of the cost of Senior Day

Silver Sticker (3.5-3.799 GPA & 93% attendance)

1. Panther Merchandise

2. $2 off Silver Sticker parking

3. $2 off ASB fee (valid during registration week only)

4. $3 off Yearbook (good through the end of 1st semester)

5. One (1) extra graduation ticket

6. 50% off one (1) Homecoming ticket

7. $4 off the price of one (1) Prom ticket

8. $2 off of the cost of Senior Day

Dates and times for sticker and Panther merchandise distribution will be advertised on the Panther Student News and on social media.

We encourage all students to be involved in student activities. Student Government, sports, and clubs give students opportunities to develop positive relationships with adults, practice leadership skills, and enjoy socializing with their peers. Students involved in school activities perform better academically.

All students who occupy student leadership positions, including, but not limited to, student body officers, class officers, cheerleaders, club officers, and participants in clubs and sports, are expected to demonstrate levels of student behavior that represent the school in a positive light on and off campus. Failure to maintain such behavior may result in removal from the class office and/or from participation in the sport or activity at the discretion of the school administration.

For assistance or information, please see the Activities Coordinator (Kelly Burton) or any Student Body officer for 2026-2027.

• All officers are subject to the Constitution Rules and Expectations.
• The Constitution provides its fellow officers the right to remove them.
• Student Officers are expected to be role models both on and off campus, at all times, not just during school-related activities.
• All officers must maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA and maintain 90% or higher attendance in all classes.

Freshman Class Officers (Class of 2030) will be elected in the fall.

Activity Letters

South Medford High School awards Activity letters to students who participate in speech/debate, music (band, orchestra, choir), drama, flag team, student government, and LINK Crew. In order to qualify for the Activity letter, a student must satisfy the general requirements for all school letter awards and the specific requirements for the individual activity.

General Requirements:

1. Maintain eligibility the entire season.

2. Adhere to the SMHS Code of Conduct

2. Attend all practices and events (advisor may make exceptions).

3. Equipment must be returned on time, or payment made for missing articles.

4. If activity is related to an academic class, the student must maintain a "B" or higher grade average in the class.

5. The National Honor Society is open to all 10th, 11th, and 12th-grade students with an academic GPA of 3.70 or higher. Qualifying students will receive an invitation to apply for NHS in the fall. Once admitted, they will spend the year working on community service projects as a group and individually, and attend monthly meetings. Students who fulfill the community service hour and attendance requirements for that year will be eligible to receive the designations listed below.

Specific Requirements:

Band: LETTER: Three (3) years participation in Concert/Symphonic Band OR one (1) year of Wind Ensemble, 2 years of Football Band, and 1 year of Basketball Band. PIN: Participation in one (1) additional year of each of the above. 

Choir: Three (3) years of participation in choir.

Creative Arts: Four (4) years of participation and completion of the AP Studio Art portfolio.

Debate: Three (3) years of participation in speech/debate, or 250 National Forensics League points, plus participation in district/state competitions.

DECA/FBLA: Complete one of the following: Three (3) years active member or State Officer or two (2) years as a Chapter Officer.

Drama/Theatre: Letter: Participation in four (4) shows. Pin: Participation in six (6) shows. Theatre Excellence Award: Participation in ten (10) shows. 

Color Guard: Letter: three (3) years participation on team, including Football Band, Winter Guard, and participation in the Jacksonville Parade and Pear Blossom. 

LINK Crew: Two (2) years as an active member and LINK Advisor approval.

Orchestra: Three (3) years of participation in orchestra.

Student Gov’t.: One (1) year participation as an elected ASB or class officer and maintaining a "B" or higher grade average in the Student Government class.

National Honor Society: (Listed below)

1st year of fulfillment: NHS Certificate

2nd year of fulfillment: Activity Letter

3rd year of fulfillment: NHS Pin

Mock Trial: Compete in at least 3 full tournaments or 1 full regional competition, plus 2 years of participation and a grade of B or higher in all quarters of the Mock Trial course.

Yearbook: (Listed Below)

2nd year of fulfillment: Activity Letter

3rd year of fulfillment: Yearbook Pin

OSA Recognized Activities

• Band
• Choir
• Orchestra
• Solo Music

SMHS Sponsored Student Clubs, Chapters, Activities

Clubs at SMHS are student-led. Any student may organize a club connected to their interests with approval from the Activities Director. Students must arrange for a teacher advisor who will attend a training session. A newly approved club will begin at the start of the next semester.

Club availability may change based on the availability of an advisor or student interest. Students can learn about all our clubs at Club Rush in the fall and by visiting the Clubs & Activities page under "Student Life" on the school website. 

ATHLETIC LETTERS

South Medford High School awards Athletic letters to students who participate in our OSAA-sanctioned athletic programs at the varsity level. In order to qualify for the Athletic letter, a student must satisfy the general requirements for all school Athletic letters and the specific requirements for the individual activity.

General Requirements:

1. Maintain eligibility throughout the entire season. 

2. Adhere to the District Athletic Code of Conduct.

3. Attend all practices and games. Coaches may make exceptions.

4. Complete the season.

5. Return all equipment and/or pay all fines for missing/lost articles.

6. Be a senior who has been a part of the program for the past two years.

Specific Requirements:

Baseball/Softball: (Boys-Girls) Participate in 50% of varsity games.

Basketball: (Boys-Girls)  Participate in 20 varsity quarters.

Cheerleading: (Co-Ed) Must be a member in good standing at the end of the 3rd quarter (varsity team only).

Cross Country: (Boys-Girls) Participate in 50% of scheduled varsity races.

Dance Team:  (Co-Ed) Dancers who have made the Varsity Team and performed at every performance unless otherwise cleared by the head coach.

Football:  (Boys-Girls) Complete all required activities and play in at least 9 varsity game quarters.

Golf:  (Boys-Girls) Participate in 50% of the varsity matches or qualify for state.

Soccer: (Boys-Girls) Participate in 50% of varsity games.

Swimming: (Boys-Girls) Participate in 50% of varsity meets.

Tennis: (Boys-Girls) Participate in 50% dual varsity matches or score one point at District.

Track & Field: (Boys-Girls) Participate in 50% of varsity meets or score at Districts.

Volleyball:  (Boys-Girls) Participate in 25% of varsity matches.

Wrestling:  (Boys-Girls) Participate in 50% of varsity matches or place at the District tournaments.

OSAA Recognized Team Sports

Criteria For Determining Eligibility

1. Under the guidelines established by the OSAA and the Medford School District, a student athlete is eligible to participate if they have successfully completed the equivalent of 2.5 credits in the previous two quarters, are currently enrolled in and passing five classes, and are on track to graduate.

2. In addition to the OSAA standards, the Medford School District has implemented a policy that students participating in extra-curricular activities who received one or more “F” grades at the end of a quarter will be placed on probation for the next quarter. While on probation,    students will be eligible to participate in extra-curricular activities.

3. The student may not have any unexcused absences on the day of or the day after a scheduled event. If the student misses the day of or after an event, he/she will not be eligible to participate in the next scheduled contest unless cleared by the principal, school athletic director, or their designee.

Pay to Participate

District 549C students who participate in athletics will be required to pay a participation fee.  Payment plans and scholarships can be arranged through the Athletic Secretary and the school Athletic Director. The fee for high school students participating in football is $150. The fee for all other athletics is $100 per sport. Students will be charged for the first two seasons in which they play.

Participation Fee Refund Policy:

If a student is cut from a team, the fee will be refunded. If they quit the team or become ineligible to participate, the participation fee will not be refunded. If a student is injured and can no longer participate because of the injury, the family may appeal to the Athletic Director for a partial or full refund.

Club Sports

Available club sports may change based on club availability. 

Participation Fee: 

Participation fees for club sports will be determined by the club sport’s coach.

Proficiency-Based Teaching and Learning

The primary purpose of grading is to communicate academic progress to students and their families. Grades reflect what a student knows and is able to do in a course. 

High School Proficiency Continuum

Students in grades 9 and 10 must be enrolled in seven (7) classes. If you are participating in an OSAA activity, you must be enrolled in and passing a minimum of five (5) classes. 

South Medford High School will not modify students' transcripts from other schools. 

P (Pass) - If the class is not identified as a P/NP course, a student may earn credit for a course with a grade of “P” only when arranged with the teacher and approved by the administration within the first 10 days of a quarter.

I (Incomplete) - An "I" grade may be given to report insufficient evidence of learning due to a unique circumstance and is given on a case-by-case situation. The student has 10 school days to request a change from an "I" after the last day of the term; otherwise, the "I" will remain or be changed to the current grade based on the individual circumstance. 

W (Withdraw/No Credit) - If a student drops a course after the first 10 school days of the term, one of the following grades will be assigned:

• “W” - if passing the class at the time of withdrawal
• “F”  - if not passing the class at the time of withdrawal

Classes may not be dropped during the final two weeks of the quarter.

NG (No Grade/No Credit) - A grade of “NG” may be given only with administrative approval, and for students who are unable to earn credit due to extenuating circumstances  (e.g., late transfer, illness, etc)

Classes may not be added after the first two weeks of a quarter.

Level Changes

Level changes, such as Honors English to regular English, do not result in F’s on a student’s record.  Such changes must be recommended by the student’s teacher and approved by the appropriate counselor.  If a student drops a course after the first 10 days of the term, a “W” will be assigned if the student is passing. An “F” will be assigned if the student is not passing the course at the time of a drop.

Report Cards/Progress Reports

Report cards are available through Synergy approximately 7-10 days following the end of the nine-week period. A progress report is available through Synergy midway through each nine-week grading period.

Make-up Work - Work Missed Due to Absences (Excused or Unexcused)

When a student has been absent from a class, that student has the opportunity to work with the teacher. Students should arrange to complete missed classwork within one week of returning to class. students then have an additional week to complete missing work from that absence. Previously arranged work which was due on the day of the absence is due upon the student's return. Students are encouraged to utilize office hours to make a plan with teachers to make up missed work. 

Retaking Assessments

Students are permitted to retake assessments. An assessment should be retaken if possible within 2 weeks of when the summative assessment/assignment is graded. Students will have a limit of 2 retake opportunities per assessment. The purpose of reassessing is to demonstrate increased knowledge and skill related to course learning targets. Before students are afforded each opportunity to reassess, students must first demonstrate that they are prepared for reassessment. Examples of preparation include homework, classwork, study group, and attending additional office hour appointments with teachers. If a student was absent for the material/learning, the student should be given the opportunity to learn the material before taking the summative. 

Repeating a Course to Replace a Letter Grade

Students who earn less than an "A" grade in a course may repeat the course in order to replace a letter grade on a transcript. When the repeated course is completed, the higher of the 2 grades will count towards the student's GPA. The original grade will no longer count towards the GPA nor will the credit preiously earned be accrued. 

Diploma Options

As your child pursues the secondary grades (grades 7-12), it is important that you are aware of diploma options available in the Medford School District. Every effort will be made to help your child receive a standard high school diploma. If you and a school team decide that this is not possible for your child, and if he or she meets the definitions of eligibility defined by Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR 581-022-1134), you may opt for a modified diploma, an extended diploma, or an alternative diploma. These three alternative diplomas do not have all of the benefits of a standard diploma, and you and the school team should discuss what options are best for your child.

The schedule change policy is designed to promote academic success at South Medford High School. Students are given curriculum and registration information each spring (“Forecasting”). Students are expected to take the classes they request, as this is how we create our master schedule and hire and assign school staff. Students must complete the Schedule Change Request Form.

Credits are earned for passing classes at the end of each quarter. Classes are based on a year-long or semester schedule. Student-initiated requests will only be considered before the beginning of the semester, based on availability:

• Students in year-long academic courses must remain in those courses for the entire year.
• Students must also remain in the elective courses they are placed in at the beginning of the year.
• Students should see their school counselor to complete a schedule change form only if they meet the requirements for an approved schedule change.

Approved Reasons for Schedule Changes:

1. The student has been scheduled into a course previously passed
2. The student has been scheduled into a course out of sequence (i.e., being enrolled in Spanish 3 before taking Spanish 1).
3. The student did not pass a class that was a prerequisite for another (i.e., being enrolled in Spanish 3 after not passing Spanish 1).
4. The student has an incomplete schedule.
5. The student is a senior who is missing a requirement for graduation

*All schedule change requests outside of these parameters must be requested to and approved by an administrator*

Schedule changes may also occur if an administrator must balance class sizes or due to staffing changes.

Procedure for Schedule Changes for Approved Reasons:

1. The student must meet with their counselor. Students can meet with their counselor:

• Before school
• During the missing class period
• By doing a walk-in appointment during lunch

1. A form or parental permission is needed unless specified by a counselor
2. Counselors will work with students to complete their request.

The student must continue with their current schedule until they receive a new one.

Initiating a schedule change does not guarantee that the request(s) can be met. Factors such as class, size, availability of classes, and/or appropriate placements will supersede schedule change requests. In addition, when requesting a change into an elective class in which space is made available, priority will be given to graduating seniors, followed by juniors, sophomores, and freshmen.

The following situations will NOT be ap proved for a schedule change:

1. A desire for another instructor.
2. A desire for the specific class to be moved to a different/specific period.
3. The student is failing a course that they had initially requested and is afraid that it will affect graduation. Students are responsible for maintaining passing grades and will not be pulled from a class in lieu of failing.
4. The student requested the course but is no longer interested in the subject.
5. The student needs to drop a class to improve their GPA.
6. The student is having conflicts with other students in the class. Students need to discuss problems with administrators or their counselor for conflict resolution.

Special circumstances may require a schedule change after the beginning of the semester. To accommodate these situations, a 10-day grace period is allowed. During this time, level changes may be made within the same subject.

Schedule change requests will NOT be granted after the 10th day of each semester.

Procedure for Dropping Classes Prior to the Cut-Off Date:

1. The student will fill out the Schedule Change Request form completely, including securing all necessary signatures.
2. The student must meet with their counselor to request a class drop/change.
3. The student must turn the completed form in to their counselor.

The student must continue with their current schedule until they receive a new one.

Consequences of Dropping Classes After the Cut-Off Date:

1. Any request to drop a class after the first two (2) weeks of instruction will result in the class being replaced by an “excused” period for that period ONLY. The excused period option will only be granted to those students who are ON TRACK or ahead in credits. The student cannot be behind in credits. Students/parents may choose this option up until the end of the 11th week of the semester.
2. Students who request to drop a class after two (2) weeks of instruction will receive a “W” if they are passing or an “F” if they are not passing at the time at which the class was dropped.
3. The grades of “F or W” will be placed on the student’s transcript at the end of the semester for the class that was dropped and will also be averaged into the student’s GPA. A grade of “W” will not affect the GPA.
4. The final semester grade report will list the class and indicate the failing grade.

Students MAY be placed in a Credit Retrieval class to make up failed courses if all of the following have been met:

· 60% attendance in the class, they are trying to retrieve credit for

· A minimum grade of 40% in the class

If a student fails a class and does not meet these requirements, the student will need to retake the class or take the full-length class in Edgenuity.

Students are eligible to receive no more than 1.0 credit of CR (Credit Retrieval) per subject area.

Credit Retrieval coursework will not replace an “F” grade on a student’s transcript. Credit Retrieval coursework is not NCAA-approved. Students may not be eligible for college entrance.

• Identification of Students Needing Credit Retrieval: Counselors review student records on the Edgenuity platform to identify those who have not met the required credits for a particular course.
• Consultation and Enrollment: Students identified for Credit Retrieval will meet with their counselor to discuss the incomplete credit and the process for Credit Retrieval. If the student agrees to participate, they will be enrolled in the Credit Retrieval program on the Edgenuity platform. Students who meet the identified threshold for attendance and grades are eligible for the pretest option.  Students who do not meet the identified threshold must complete the entire course and all of the modules without the option of pretesting.
• Pretest Assessment: Before beginning the credit retrieval process, students are given a pretest on the Edgenuity platform. The pretest covers the key concepts and skills taught in the course. This assessment helps identify areas of strength and weakness for each student.
• Access to Course Material: Based on the analysis of the pretest results, students are provided with access to the relevant Edgenuity course content for the specific course they need to retrieve credit for. This includes video lectures, interactive lessons, quizzes, assignments, and projects.
• Review and Completion of Assignments: Instead of taking a final test, students are required to complete all of the assignments, quizzes, and projects within the Edgenuity course. They focus on areas where they demonstrated a lack of understanding in the pretest, ensuring they   engage with each concept thoroughly.
• Additional Support: Students who require additional support or clarification on course material can reach out to their teachers or counselors for assistance. Teachers may offer office hours, email support, or additional resources to help students succeed.
• Credit Awarded: Upon successful completion of all assignments, quizzes, and projects within the Edgenuity course, students are awarded the necessary credit for the course. This credit is recorded in their academic records, allowing them to progress to the next level, or graduate, as applicable.
• Follow-Up and Support: After Credit Retrieval, students may receive follow-up support to    address any ongoing academic needs or challenges. This could include additional tutoring, study skills workshops, or referrals to other support services.

First in Class

The First in Class recognition is based on unweighted GPA and the number of honors classes in which the student was enrolled to achieve that GPA. Thus, if two students have the same GPA but one student has taken six honors classes, and the other four honors classes, the student with six honors classes will be named the First in Class. “Honors” classes are defined as those listed in the SMHS Profile. A class taken during concurrent enrollment at SOU (Southern Oregon University) or RCC (Rogue Community College) may also count as an honors class.  Advanced Placement (AP) classes are honors classes. The First in Class is awarded a First in Class medallion and diploma seal.

Valedictorian

The Valedictorian(s) will be selected on the basis of unweighted Grade Point Average (GPA). The Valedictorian(s) are awarded a medallion and diploma seal.

Top 10%  of Graduating Class

The Top 10% recognition is awarded to students who earned an unweighted GPA within the top 10% of the graduating class. Top 10% graduates are awarded a gold tassel.

Honors Diploma

The Honors Diploma is awarded to students who have earned an unweighted GPA of at least 3.5 and earned at least 9.0 AP/Honors credits. Honors Diploma graduates are awarded a gold seal on their diplomas.

Summa Cum Laude Graduate

The Summa Cum Laude recognition is awarded to students who earned an unweighted GPA of at least 3.8 and earned at least 9.0 AP/Honors credits. Summa Cum Laude graduates are awarded an Honors Gold Stole.

Magna Cum Laude Graduate

The Magna Cum Laude recognition is awarded to students who earned an unweighted GPA of at least 3.5 and earned at least 8.75 AP/Honors credits.  Magna Cum Laude graduates are awarded a gold cord.

Cum Laude Graduate

The Cum Laude recognition is awarded to students who earned a GPA of 3.5 and above and earned between 1.0 and 4.5 AP/Honors credits. Cum Laude graduates are awarded a silver cord.

Graduates achieving the above recognitions may be permitted to speak as part of the planned graduation program at the discretion of the building principal or designee. All speeches must be reviewed and approved in advance by the building principal or designee.

Titles and privileges may be revoked for violation of school board policy, administrative regulation of school rules.

AP & HONORS COURSES

The courses below qualify as an AP or Honors course. Credits in these courses count towards Academic Recognition.

ADDITIONAL RECOGNITIONS

Biliteracy Seal

The Biliteracy Seal recognizes student proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in 2 or more languages through an assessment or Language AP exams. Graduates who earn the Biliteracy Seal are awarded a seal on their diploma and a light blue cord.

CTE (Career & Technical Education) Completer

Graduates who earned 2 or more credits in their program of study, passed all of the required courses, and fulfilled all graduation requirements are awarded an orange, gray, and green cord.

Purple Tassel

Students earn a Purple Tassel by earning a scoring of "Proficient" in the OSAS tests for English, Math, & Science in their Junior year. 

Southern Oregon University

Graduates who earned 8 or more credits through SOU during high school are awarded a red and black cord.

Rogue Community College

Graduates who earned 15 or more credits through Rogue Community College during high school are awarded a blue, green, and gold cord.

SMILE

As a part of the OSU STEM Pathway to Success, the SMILE Club creates opportunities for students to showcase a passion for Science. Students must have been accepted into the program for 3-4 years, attend 2 SMILE challenges/competitions, conduct SMILE STEAM activities during their 4 years in high school, have a 2.0 GPA or higher and attend the Science Outreach Family Math & Science Night for 2 years while in the program. Students who meet all of these requirements earn OSU-colored cords and a certificate. 

Student Government/ASB Officer

Graduates who served in Student Government/ASB are awarded a silver stole (ASB) or a white stole (Senior Class Officer).

TRiO

Graduates who are a part of TRiO (first generation to go to college) are awarded a red and white cord.

ASB FEE

The ASB (Associated Student Body) fee of $25.00 admits students to South Medford High School activities free or at a reduced price. This fee is optional.

ASSEMBLIES/RALLIES/PROGRAMS

Assemblies are important school events for educational, cultural, and social activities. Attend-ance at assemblies is mandatory unless otherwise specified. Students must arrive on time, remain seated, and behave respectfully. Disruptive behavior and unauthorized use of electronic devices are prohibited.

ATTENDANCE

Our school is a closed campus, meaning students cannot leave during school hours without per-mission, including during school-day events. Students must check out at the Attendance Office and provide documentation if they need to leave for valid reasons. If a student needs to be ex-cused to attend an appointment during the school day, the parent/guardian must contact the Attendance Office well in advance so that a hall pass may be given to the student prior to dismis-sal. Students who leave campus without checking out with the Attendance Office may be sub-ject to disciplinary action.
Students with unexcused absences, chronic tardies, or are in an inappropriate location may be subject to school discipline.

• Tardiness - Students tardy to class may be required to serve detention during lunch in Student Management. Failure to serve lunch detention may result in In-School Suspension.
• Extended Absences - Students who are absent for 10 days will be dropped. When a student returns, they must report to the front office to be re-enrolled.
• Non-Hybrid students who are on campus working on an online class are expected to be in the Library.
• Students who have a free period should be in the Commons.

All absences must be cleared (excused) within 48 hours by calling (541) 842-3683, faxing documentation to (541) 842-1513, sending a note signed by a parent/guardian, or by e-mailing: SMHS.attendance@medford.k12.or.us

Please refer to the Medford School Board Attendance Policy for additional information regarding what constitutes an excused absence. This policy can be reached by visiting the Medford School District 549c Online Policy Manual and using the search box near the upper right-hand corner to search for policy "JE-AR". 

CHECK IN/OUT

All students will be required to check in/out of the building at the Attendance Office.

Tardy: Students who are late to class will check in at a tardy kiosk to receive a tardy slip. The student should then head directly to class. When the student checks in and receives their tardy slip, an unexcused tardy will automatically be recorded in the student’s attendance. The tardy can be excused by providing documentation excusing the tardy (a doctor’s note, appointment re-minder card, etc.) or with a parent/guardian phone call providing an excusable reason for the tardy.

Pass to Leave Early: Students should bring notes or have a parent/guardian call the Attendance office well in advance to be excused from school activities (including assemblies). Ample time is needed to locate students and deliver hall passes that will release the student from class. If a student becomes ill while in class, the student needs to get permission from the teacher to go to the office to contact the parent/guardian for permission to go home.

CLOSED CAMPUS

Freshmen and sophomores must remain on campus during breaks, including lunch. 11th and 12th grade students in good standing may leave campus during lunch. Students may leave the school grounds at other times during the school day with approval of the building administration. The su-perintendent and his/her designee may close any campus for a designated period of time.

Students who leave campus at the end of their school day are not permitted to return inside campus.

COMPUTER/INTERNET USE

Students viewing, storing, or transferring inappropriate materials will be subject to school consequences, will lose computer privileges, and may be dropped from their computer courses with an “F” grade. 

DANCE RULES

Students who attend dances must obey the following rules:

• School ID must be shown at admittance to the dance.
• Bags may be searched upon entry.
• Students must be dressed appropriately to attend school dances.
• Appropriate conduct must be maintained at all times especially while dancing.
• Transportation home after the dance must be arranged prior to the dance.
• Once students leave the dance, they cannot re-enter and must depart school grounds immediately.
• No backpacks/satchels allowed into the dance area.
• Students may bring guests who have been issued guest passes at the discretion of the administration. Guest passes may be requested in advance. You must accompany your guest to the dance and you are responsible for your guest’s conduct. No guest over the age of 19 will be allowed to a SMHS dance.
• A limited number of guest passes are issued on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Personal property is the responsibility of the student. We recommend that students leave electronics and valuable equipment at home.
• School drug and alcohol policies are in effect at all activities.
• Crowd-surfing and/or inappropriate dancing will result in immediate dismissal from the dance and may also result in the dance ending early.

DANCE RULES FOR PROM (IN ADDITION TO THE ABOVE)

• Formal attire is required
• Guest passes are required to be approved for ALL 9th and 10th graders and/or guests from other schools up to the age of 19. No guest over the age of 19 will be allowed to a SMHS dance.
• A limited number of guest passes may be allowed. This number will be determined by admin and venue capacity.

Dance privileges and guest passes may be withheld or revoked from students with referrals, poor
attendance, excessive tardies, or Fs in classes.

DRESS CODE

The SMHS dress code supports the transitioning of students from school to the work environment. Student attire should be supportive of a learning environment for all students. All clothing shall be within the boundaries of decency and good taste and not create a disruption to the teaching and learning environment. Students should practice good hygiene.
Some dress code violations may be corrected by turning a shirt inside out, covering up with a jacket or sweater, or putting on an appropriate shirt. Students dressed inappropriately for school will be given the opportunity to make necessary changes at staff member’s discretion; however, a student may also be escorted to Student Management where they will be given the opportuni-ty to call home for more appropriate attire.

• Displaying any gang symbol is strictly prohibited. This may include tattoos, handkerchiefs, suspenders, belts, jewelry, jackets, clothes or devices associated with group intimidation or gang affiliation.
• Bandanas may not be displayed or worn while on campus.
• Clothing worn by groups in an effort to intimidate or make territorial claims at the school are not allowed.
• References to drugs, alcohol, tobacco, violence, satanic themes, sex, pornography, racial slurs, disparaging remarks, or any messages deemed inappropriate by school officials may not be worn or displayed.
• Any group identified by common dress must have administrative approval to be on campus.
• Clothing must be sufficient and must be worn to conceal underclothes.
• Chains, spikes, or other objects which might present a safety hazard are prohibited. Inappropriate and/or dangerous items may be confiscated.
• Capes and flags are not permitted to be worn as clothing unless being worn for dress-up days.
• Full facial masks are not permitted.
• Excessive bareness is not permitted i.e. bare midriffs or low-cut, revealing tops.
• Shirts and shoes are required at all times.

DRONES

Drones will not be permitted on school grounds unless part of a classroom assignment and with administrative approval.

ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY

Personal electronic devices (cell phones, earbuds, etc.) need to be OFF and AWAY during the school day. Please refer to the Medford School District's policy regarding use of personal electronic devices. This policy can be found by visiting the Medford School District 549c Online Policy Manual and using the search box near the upper right-hand corner to search for policy "JFCEB - Personal Electronic Devices". 

ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURE

There is a designated, single-entry and exit point for all students on campus: the black gates located near the student parking lot. 

Students are expected to:

• use this entry/exit point at the start of the school day and throughout school hours
• carry and show their school-issued student ID card upon entering campus
• help maintain a safe and secure campus. 

Only school or district personnel may verify identification and authorize entry through campus access points. Students are expected to leave this responsibility to staff and follow all directions regarding campus access. Allowing others into the building or disregarding staff may result in disciplinary consequences. 

Before school, students may:

• enter campus through the black gates or the front of the building.

End of school day, students will be: 

• permitted to use the front entrance of the school as an additional entry and exit point.

Adults and Visitors are restricted to the front entrance of the school (off Cunningham Avenue)

ELEVATOR ACCESS

Elevator badges are issued to students on a case-by-case basis. A doctor’s note may be requested in some circumstances. Students are not to loan their elevator badge to other students or allow other students into the elevator with them. Students are to return their elevator badge when requested or when their injury has healed. A $5 fee will be issued if an elevator badge is lost or not returned.

FINES

Fines for parking or loss of/damage to school property must be paid by students to the Activities Office. Unpaid fines/fees may prevent a student from attending optional school activities such as dances, activities, or sporting events. Seniors with unpaid fines/fees may not participate in school events, Prom, and graduation ceremonies.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Food and beverages are NOT permitted in the Media Center, gym, and restrooms. students may eat in the Commons, Courtyards, or Bistro area. Students may not sell food or beverages for individual profit. 

FOOD DELIVERY

Ordering food and attempting to have it delivered to the school's campus is prohibited. Food deliveries (DoorDash, GrubHub, etc.) will be turned away at the front door by Office staff. This is to ensure the safety of our school and eliminate management of food delivery personnel. The school recognizes there are special events where food deliveries to the school are acceptable. These events must be approved an managed by South Medford High School Staff. A student's guardian is welcome to drop off food for their student if necessary at the Main Office. 

HALL PASSES

Students leaving class MUST have a hall pass. Only one (1) student is allowed out of a class at a time. Students leaving class to use the restroom should utilize the nearest restroom.

Students are not permitted to leave class during the first 10 minutes of class or the last 10 minutes of class. 

LIBRARY / MEDIA CENTER USE

The South Medford High School Library/Media Center is available to students from 8:00am - 4:00pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday and from 9:00am - 4:00pm on Wednesday. The Library/Media Center welcomes all students and works to maintain a supportive, academic re-source center. Students are expected to sign in at the front desk and have a teacher-issued pass if using the Library during a class period.

Find our Library catalog, research databases and more, including log-in instructions, by visiting the Media Center page under “Student Learning” on the South Medford High School website

LOCKERS

Lockers are available by request. Students should inspect the locker at once and report any dam-age to Student Services in the Main Office. If students fail to do this, then it is assumed the locker was in good condition. Lockers Students should be aware that lockers are the property of the school district and school authorities have the right and obligation to check inside lockers when there is reason to suspect they may contain items which are illegal or threaten student safety or welfare. Students may be charged for the cleanliness of the locker.

LOITERING

Students may not loiter (wait around idly or without apparent purpose) in parking lots, in front of the school, in their vehicles, or in the surrounding neighborhoods. If a student does not have a class during the day, the student must remain in the school library or commons as a study hall. Juniors and seniors may leave campus during this time, but must observe the loitering guidelines. When the school day ends, students will be asked to leave campus unless they have official busi-ness or participate in an after-school activity. At the end of the school day, students need to leave campus or wait for their transportation at the front or back of the school. 

LOST AND FOUND

If students lose something, they should go to the Student Management Office (room A141) to see if it has been turned in. If theft is suspected, students should report their suspicions to Student  Management.  

MEDICATION

A parent/guardian permission form must be submitted for all medications (both prescription and non-prescription). Students may not possess medications at school without submitting a form. Medication forms can be picked up at the Main Office.  

PHOTO GUIDELINES

It is never appropriate to take pictures/video without permission. Posting inappropriate pictures/video or harassing comments on the internet may result in disciplinary action and/or referral to law enforcement. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in loss of privileges, confiscation of cameras, and/or phones and restricted internet access while on campus.  

SAFETY DRILLS

To ensure the safety of our students, we practice regular fire drills, earthquake drills and lockdown drills. We also partner with the Medford Police Department to bring drug dogs on campus. 

SKATEBOARDS/BIKES

Skateboards, rollerblades, bikes, e-bikes, and scooters are not permitted inside campus. When used for transportation to and from school, they must be secured in the racks. Students must en-sure their use of these items does not impede traffic or student pedestrians. Engaging in these ac-tivities in dangerous areas, such as the loading dock or school fire lane, may result in school con-sequences.  This applies to any and all forms of transportation except those used for assisted mobility. 

SOLICITATION

No person may solicit money or sell items to students or staff without the prior approval of the  principal. Building principals may give permission to the students in their building to raise funds for student activities. Distribution of flyers or other materials to students must be approved in advance.

SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS

The SMHS campus is monitored by internal and external surveillance cameras. 

VISITORS

Due to the enrollment size and for student safety, student visitors are not allowed. All other visitors must have prior administrative approval, check in with the Main Office, and display a visitors’ pass at all times while on campus.  
Due to capacity restrictions, we only allow SMHS students to attend our assemblies and rallies.

PERMITTED PARKING: JUNIOR and SENIOR students at South Medford High School may park in the Student Parking Lot.  Students must complete the Parking Pass Registration form and pay a $20 fee to obtain a parking permit. The parking fee of $20 grants a student an assigned/numbered parking spot in the Student Parking Lot. Parking Permits are available for purchase during Wel-coming Week in August. Preference will be given to Seniors, followed by Juniors, on a first-come, first-served basis until all parking spots are assigned. Parking lot registration for your assigned spot is valid until near the end of the school year when Seniors have their last day of school (typically 1 -2 weeks before all students). The parking lot will then reset and be open to all student drivers.

Purchasing a parking pass is not required; however, students may not park on campus without one and must park only in their assigned spot.  

Students may not park in the Staff Parking Lot. Violators may be ticketed and/or towed.

The parking permit must be visibly displayed in the front, left-hand side of the vehicle’s windshield. Safe driving and courteous behavior are expected. Students may be turned away from the  parking lot if they do not comply with parking procedures and/or if they do not have a parking permit. 

• Seniors with a Gold Sticker will receive priority parking space selection and a discounted parking permit fee of $15.00
• Seniors with a Silver Sticker and Juniors with a Gold Sticker receive a discounted parking per-mit fee of $18.00.
• There are four (4) Booster parking spaces available for bidding at the Booster Club Auction. Only the successful bidders are allowed to park in these spaces.
• Students will be fined for:  parking without a visible permit, parking in Gold parking, parking in the Booster Auction parking, parking in ADA spaces without an appropriate permit, parking inappropriately. and parking in the faculty parking lot. Students who park in a faculty lot or in an ADA space may have their vehicles ticketed and/or towed.
• Students who take more than one space, park illegally, park without a visible permit or park without a valid parking permit may have their car booted, be ticketed and/or towed.
• Parking in the Staff Parking Lot, Loading Dock, or outside the Autos classroom is prohibited.

PARKING LOT EXPECTATIONS:

• Do not cause any disruption in the parking lot.
• Do not loiter (wait around idly or without apparent purpose) in the parking lot.
• No weapons  or illegal substances of any kind are allowed in student vehicles while on school property. 
• Any vehicle entering this area is subject to search by either school authorities and/or law enforcement personnel. Such searches may be conducted without warrant for any reasonable purpose. Search of the vehicle includes all compartments and components thereof. Once the search begins, the person in control of the vehicle will not be permitted to remove it from the premises during the reasonable duration of the search.
• Any student caught driving in an unsafe manner will have their parking privileges suspended.
• Campus is closed during class time. If a student needs to leave campus for an appointment, etc. a parent/guardian must contact the attendance office at (541)842-3683 or smhs.attendance@medford.k12.or.us well in advance so that a hall pass can be sent to the student releasing them from class.
• Students may not loan their parking pass.

Consequences for inappropriate use of the parking lot include:

• Boot placed on car wheel.
• Tickets & fines ($5 for the 1st offense, $10 for the 2nd offense, $25 for the 3rd offense and each offense thereafter)
• Loss of parking privileges
• Additional disciplinary action
• Towing charges at student/parent expense

As a courtesy, we will do our best to communicate with parents regarding parking issues; however, it should be noted that the ticket serves as notice of an infraction. Please contact Student Management if you have any questions.

It is a student’s responsibility to rectify a parking violation immediately!

• Obey school rules as well as local, state and federal laws.
• Respect private property. No trespassing.
• Abstain from tobacco, alcohol and drugs.
• Clean up after yourself at school and in the community.
• Be on campus and in class during class time.

• Loiter.
• Do not use your body or  a vehicle to obstruct traffic or block neighborhood driveways.

SOUTH MEDFORD HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY EXPECTATIONS

Our Shared Commitment: Safe * Respectful * Responsible 
Together, students, families, and staff create a school where everyone feels safe, respected, connected and supported to learn.  

ACADEMIC HONESTY POLICY

Students are expected to complete and submit their own work. Academic honesty is an essential part of learning and maintaining trust within our school community. Grades should be an authen-tic reflection of a student’s knowledge, skills, and work.

 
What Is Academic Dishonesty? 
Academic dishonesty occurs when a student gains or attempts to gain an unfair academic ad-vantage or misrepresents someone else’s work as their own. Academic dishonesty will be ad-dressed through the disciplinary process and will result in an INCOMPLETE on the assignment. The student will be expected to re-take the assignment.  

This policy covers all school-related work including tests, quizzes, reports, assignments and pro-jects. Consequences may vary based on the nature, severity, and frequency of the violation and may include:  

CONSEQUENCES FOR ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

For any incident of academic dishonesty, the administration will determine the appropriate level of discipline. These consequences will be recorded as part of your  discipline record in the form of a referral. Students found to be academically dishonest are subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension, dismissal from student offices, athletics, and extracurricular activities, involuntary transfer, or expulsion. 

CHRONIC MISBEHAVIOR

The behaviors below may result in a referral to a school counselor, discipline technician, or assis-tant principal. Possible consequences are:  

• Lunch detention - Failure to serve a lunch detention may result in a greater consequence.
• In-school suspension - full school day is 8:55am—3:48pm regardless of student schedule
• Out-of-school suspension - off-campus and not permitted on campus or any school or district event
• Confiscation of inappropriate items
• Conference with parent/guardian and/or student

PHYSICALLY DANGEROUS BEHAVIOR, OVERT INSUBORDINATION, AND ILLEGAL ACTS 

The behaviors below may result in suspension for up to 10 school days and may be recommend-ed for expulsion. Encouraging or daring other students to violate school rules may also receive consequences. 

Possible Consequences: 

• Suspension for up to 10 school days
• Recommendation for expulsion
• Additional school or legal consequences when applicable

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly-advancing set of technologies for capturing data to detect patterns and automate decisions. AI has become an increasingly important and accepted part of our lives. Many of us use forms of AI daily in the form of spell-check, predictive text tools, speech-to-text, and facial recognition, among other things.

“Generative AI” is a type of AI that can be used to create various types of content, including new text, images, video, audio, code, or artificially-generated data, as well as creative writing and essays. One example of generative AI is called ChatGPT. While generative AI’s ability to produce new content can be incredibly helpful, it also raises potential concerns that include plagiarism, ethics, bias, and the spreading of misinformation.

In order to help students acquire new knowledge and skills, as well as to build knowledge and skills progressively over time, teachers must have access to students’ authentic demonstrations of learning. Sometimes, those skills can be ethically and productively enhanced in positive ways using generative AI. At other times, teachers will require that the student complete assignments without the assistance of generative AI. This will likely depend upon the skills/knowledge being assessed.

It is essential for learners of all ages to understand when and how to use generative AI effectively and ethically. AI tools can enhance classroom learning, and the implementation of these should be guided by proper training, ethical considerations, and responsible oversight.

Student Responsibilities:

1. Use AI responsibly: Students should use AI tools and techniques in a responsible and ethical manner. This includes not using AI to cheat, plagiarize, or gain an unfair advantage. For school-related work, generative AI tools should only be used when given approval or guidance from a classroom teacher.
2. Understand the limitations of AI, including potential biases: Students should understand the limitations of AI and recognize that it is not a substitute for critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
3. Maintain data privacy: The use of AI should be done in a way that protects personally identifiable information (PII). Students should not share any PII (their own or that of anyone else) with AI technologies, including name, birth date, address, or financial or confidential information.
4. Check sources generated by AI: AI is not perfect. It has been known to create inaccurate information and can be used to create misinformation and disinformation. The SIFT strategy can help with the accuracy of your research (Stop, Investigate the Source, Find Better Coverage, & Trace to the Original Context). Use SIFT to help you check sources and find independent facts to confirm AI-generated content.
5. Provide attribution: When using AI tools and techniques, students must provide proper attribution and credit to the source of the tool or technique.
6. Seek guidance when in doubt: If a teacher has not specifically indicated whether generative AI is recommended or permitted - and students are unsure whether the use of AI is appropriate for a particular assignment or project—students should ask before using generative AI.

Conclusion:

This code of conduct is intended to guide students in using Artificial Intelligence (AI) responsibly and ethically in their academic work and projects. Teachers may choose to use the AI Levels to classify assignments or projects as needed and should provide students with clear expectations for when AI is appropriate, permitted, or restricted. Generative AI must be used ONLY in a manner that is consistent with Medford School District expectations regarding academic integrity. Misuse of generative AI may be considered cheating or plagiarism.

It is the intent of the Board, district, and school administration, and school staff that all students have maximum opportunities for academic growth and achievement. Absenteeism affects student performance and reduces a student’s opportunity for success both academically and in the workforce. Attendance policies, regulations, rules, and procedures should promote student success.

Medford School District 549C supports the compulsory school attendance laws established by the state of Oregon and recognizes that punctual, regular school attendance by students promotes academic achievement. Because the law authorizes the school, not the parent, to determine which absences may be excused and which absences are not excused, the district has established the following parameters under which an absence from school will be considered an excused absence:

1. Illness, including mental and behavioral health of the student.
2. Illness of an immediate family member when the student’s presence at home is necessary.
3. Emergency situations that require the student’s absence.
4. Student is a dependent or member of the U.S. Armed Forces who is on active duty or who is called to active duty. The student may be excused for up to seven (7) days during the school year.
5. Field trip and school-approved activities.
6. Medical (dental) appointments. Confirmation of appointments may be required.
7. Other reasons deemed appropriate by the school administrator when satisfactory arrangements have been made in advance of the absence.

All other absences will be considered unexcused absences.

For an absence to be excused for the above reasons (except school absences due to school-sponsored activities), the school will determine the method of verification of absence the parent will use. The parent must notify the school’s attendance office within 48 hours of the student’s return to school. Failure to do so means the absence will become a permanent unexcused absence. It is the parent’s or guardian’s responsibility to account for student absences. Students must make up the school work they miss whenever they are absent regardless of the reason for the absence. Except for suspension and school-sponsored activities, the parent or guardian is responsible for accounting for these absences according to the verification method specified by the school.

Code: JE-AR

Revised/Reviewed: 10/17/95; 6/03/97;  2/27/17; 9/19/19; 11/05/20; 11/04/21

Student possession or use of personal electronic devices on district property, in district facilities during the school day, and while the student is in attendance at district-sponsored activities may be permitted subject to the limitations set forth in this policy and consistent with any additional school rules as may be established by the principal and approved by the superintendent.

A “personal electronic device” is a device that is capable of electronically communicating, sending, receiving, storing, recording, reproducing, and/or displaying information and data, including pictures and videos.

Personal electronic devices shall be turned off and away during instructional or class time or at any other time where such use of the device would cause a disruption of school activities.

The district will not be liable for personal electronic devices brought to district property and district-sponsored activities.

The district will not be liable for information/comments posted by students on social media websites.

Exceptions to the prohibitions set forth in this policy may be made for health, safety, or emergency reasons with prior principal or designee approval or when use is provided for in a student’s individualized education program (IEP). Other exceptions may be requested by instructors for educational purposes and would be approved on a case-by-case basis by the school administrator.

Students are subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion for using a personal electronic device in any manner that is academically dishonest, illegal, or violates the student code of conduct or acceptable use policy. A referral to law enforcement officials may also be made. Personal electronic devices brought to district property or used in violation of this policy are subject to confiscation and will be released to the student’s parent/guardian as appropriate.

The superintendent shall ensure that the Board’s policy and any subsequent school rules developed by building administrators are reviewed and approved in advance to ensure consistency with this policy and that pertinent provisions of policy and school rules are communicated to staff, students, and parent/guardians through building handbooks and other means.

The Board is committed to the elimination of sexual harassment in district schools and activities. Sexual harassment is strictly prohibited and shall not be tolerated. This includes sexual harassment of students, staff, or third parties by other students, staff, Board members, or third parties. “Third parties” include, but are not limited to, school volunteers, parents, school visitors, service contractors, or others engaged in district business, such as employees of businesses or organizations participating in cooperative work programs with the district and others not directly subject to district control at inter-district and intra-district athletic competitions or other school events. “District” includes district facilities, district premises, and non-district property if the student or employee is at any district-sponsored, district-approved, or district-related activity or function, such as field trips or athletic events, where students are under the control of the district or where the employee is engaged in district business. The prohibition also includes off-duty conduct that is incompatible with district job responsibilities.

Sexual harassment of students and staff shall include, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

1. The conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of demanding sexual favors in exchange for benefits.
2. Submission to or rejection of the conduct or communication is used as the basis for educational decisions affecting a student, employment, or assignment of staff.
3. The conduct or communication is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student’s educational performance or with an employee’s ability to perform his/her job; or creates an intimidating, offensive, or hostile educational or working environment. Relevant factors to be considered will include, but not be limited to, did the individual view the environment as hostile; was it reasonable to view the environment as hostile; the nature of the conduct; how often the conduct occurred and how long it continued; age and sex of the complainant; whether the alleged harasser was in a position of power over the student or staff member subjected to the harassment; number of individuals involved; age of the alleged harasser; where the harassment occurred; and other incidents of sexual harassment at the school involving the same or other students or staff.

Examples of sexual harassment may include, but not be limited to, physical touching or graffiti of a sexual nature, displaying or distributing of sexually explicit drawings, pictures and written materials, sexual gestures or obscene jokes, touching oneself sexually or talking about one’s sexuality in front of others or spreading rumors about or rating other students or others as to appearance, sexual activity or performance.

All complaints about behavior that may violate this policy shall be promptly investigated. Any student or employee who has knowledge of conduct in violation of this policy or feels he/she is a victim of sexual harassment must immediately report his/her concerns to the building principal, compliance officer, or superintendent, who has overall responsibility for all investigations. A student may also report concerns to a teacher, counselor, or school nurse, who will promptly notify the appropriate district official. The student and the student’s parents or staff member who initiated the complaint shall be notified of the proceedings and findings of the investigation and, if appropriate, that remedial action has been taken.

The initiation of a complaint in good faith about behavior that may violate this policy shall not adversely affect the educational assignments or study environment of a student complainant or any terms or conditions of employment or work environment of the staff complainant. There shall be no retaliation by the district against any person who, in good faith, reports, files a complaint or otherwise participates in an investigation or inquiry of sexual harassment.

It is the intent of the Board that appropriate corrective action will be taken by the district to stop the sexual harassment, prevent its recurrence, and address negative consequences. Students in violation of this policy shall be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion and/or counseling or sexual harassment awareness training, as appropriate. The age and maturity of the student(s) involved and other relevant factors will be considered in determining appropriate action. Employees in violation of this policy shall be subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal and/or additional sexual harassment awareness training as appropriate. Other individuals whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to appropriate sanctions as determined and imposed by the superintendent or Board.

Additionally, the district may report individuals in violation of this policy to law enforcement officials.   Licensed staff, staff registered with the Teachers Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) and those participating in practicum programs, as specified by Oregon Administrative Rules, shall be reported to the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission.

The superintendent shall ensure appropriate periodic sexual harassment training awareness or information is provided to all supervisors, staff, and students, and that annually, the name and position of district officials responsible for accepting and managing sexual harassment complaints, business phone numbers, addresses, or other necessary contact information is readily available. This policy, as well as the complaint procedure, will be made available to all students, parents of students, and staff in student/parent and staff handbooks. The district’s policy shall be posted in all schools.

The superintendent will establish a process for reporting incidents of sexual harassment.

Code: JBA/GBN

Adopted: 3/14/89

Readopted: 6/01/15

A Student's Guide to Understanding Sexual Harassment at School and On the Job

What is sexual harassment? 

Simply stated, it is a form of discrimination based on sex, and if it occurs at school or work, you’re protected by state and federal law. More specifically, it is unwelcome sexual overtures in the workplace or school when:

• your education or employment depends on your putting up with or giving in to the overtures, or
• the sexual overtures create a hostile environment.

What is meant by unwelcome? 

For example, one person may do or say something, and it’s enjoyed or taken as a compliment; a different person may do or say the same thing to the same person, and it’s unwelcome.

Does this mean I can be accused of sexual harassment even if I didn’t intend to sexually harass anyone?  

Yes.  Intent is not part of the definition. Even though you may have thought it was harmless teasing, flirting, or being funny, it’s how the other person feels about the words or acts. In other words, you have to think about how your message will be received.

Since I can’t read someone’s mind, how do I know if my behavior is welcome, or if I’m sexually harassing? 

Try asking yourself these questions:

• Have I been told my actions are unwelcome or inappropriate?
• Would I say or do the same to someone of the same gender?
• Would I say or do this if my parent, girlfriend, boyfriend or teacher were present?
• Would I want someone to say or do this to my sister, brother, girlfriend, or boyfriend?
• Would I want my actions to be on the evening news?
• Is the person to whom I’m saying or doing this in an equal position of power as me?
• Do my words or actions show respect for the other person?  

If you answer “no” to two or more of the questions, there is a good chance your behavior is unwelcome!

So, if the words or acts are welcome, is there no sexual harassment? 

Not necessarily. If other people in the same area who observe the behavior find it offensive and unwelcome, this can create a hostile environment, which is a form of sexual harassment.

What are some examples of sexual harassment? 

Here are some actions that are likely to be viewed as sexual harassment:

Dirty jokes, sexual name-calling, comments about a person’s physical/sexual development, requests for sex, nude pictures, touching, grabbing, pinching, generalizations about members of one gender or different expectations based on gender, graffiti, or repeated requests for a date.

What can I do if I feel like I’m being sexually harassed at school or work? 

Let the person know that you don’t appreciate their words or acts. Be clear. Some people still think “no” means “yes”.  If you don’t feel comfortable talking to the person, write a letter and keep a copy. Talk it over with a friend or your parents/guardian. Ask for help. Report it to a teacher, counselor, or principal if it occurs at school, or to your employer if it occurs at work. If it doesn’t stop, file a complaint. If this is occurring at school, you can file a discrimination complaint with your school district and appeal the matter to the State Superintendent. If it’s a work situation, it can be reported to the Oregon Bureau of Labor and  Industries. School officials and employers have a legal responsibility to put a stop to the harassment.

What if I’m sexually harassed somewhere other than at work or at school? 

The law provides specific protection in work and school environments.  In other places, like at a party or at the mall, you will need to rely on your assertiveness and your ability to avoid the person or leave the place. If the acts are severe enough, they may be the basis for criminal charges or a civil suit.

The following regulations will govern student conduct on school buses and will be posted in a conspicuous place in all buses:

1. Students being transported are under the authority of the bus driver.
2. Fighting, wrestling, or boisterous activity is prohibited on the bus.
3. Students will use the emergency door only in case of an emergency.
4. Students will be on time for the bus, both morning and evening.
5. Students will not bring firearms, weapons, or other potentially hazardous materials on the bus.
6. Students will not bring animals, except approved assistance guide animals, on the bus.
7. Students will remain seated while the bus is in motion.
8. Students may be assigned seats by the bus driver.
9. When necessary to cross the road, students will cross in front of the bus or as instructed by the bus driver.
10. Students will not extend their hands, arms, or heads through bus windows.
11. Students will have written permission to leave the bus other than for home or school.
12. Students will converse in normal tones. Loud or vulgar language is prohibited.
13. Students will not open or close windows without permission from the driver.
14. Students will keep the bus clean and must refrain from damaging it.
15. Students will be courteous to the driver, fellow students, and passers-by.
16. Students who refuse to promptly obey the directions of the driver or refuse to obey regulations may forfeit their privilege to ride on the buses.

The superintendent will establish other regulations as necessary for the safe conduct of students riding district school buses or other forms of district transportation. Such regulations will be available to all parents and students and posted in each school bus or other district vehicle.

Students who violate bus rules of conduct may be denied the use of district transportation.

Code: EEACC
Adopted: 10/21/03