March 2015 The TASB Model Student Handbook is provided to Policy Service member
POLICY SERVICE districts to assist in communicating essential information to students and
parents for the 2015–16 school year.
TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL BOARDS
Please note that a post-legislative supplement to this Model Student
2015–16 Model Student Handbook Handbook will be issued this summer. Given the number of bills filed this
legislative session that, if passed, will affect provisions within this Model
Annotated to show changes compared to the March 2014 edition. and likely your own student handbooks, consider waiting to finalize your
handbooks until the supplement is released.
© 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This
material may be reproduced for use solely by and within the member school district To assist you in reworking this material, this version of the Model Student
for noncommercial purposes. Handbook includes EDITORIAL NOTES to:
■ Alert you to statements that are required by law;
■ Suggest additional items that may need to be addressed; and
■ Remind you to match handbook provisions with district policies and
the Student Code of Conduct.
Added to this year’s Model is a column entitled REFERENCES to direct the
handbook developer to laws or state rules that pertain to a particular
section. Keep in mind that the absence of a legally referenced citation does
not necessarily mean that there is no law applicable to that section;
however, we’ve attempted to identify the most common and relevant cites
based on the subject matter. Note that the abbreviation “TAC” stands for the
Texas Administrative Code. We have also added key policy codes as another
reference point.
The Model Student Handbook is copyrighted by TASB but may be
reproduced by the district in the development of student handbooks at the
campus or district level. Further use or copying is prohibited under penalty
of law without the written consent of TASB Policy Service.
If you have any questions about this document, please call Policy Service at
800-580-7529 or 512-467-0222.
If you don’t see a list of Enclosed Model Student Handbook Files
attachments…
Attached to this annotated Model Student Handbook are the following documents.
…then you need to save this file to your
computer and re-open it using Adobe ■ Instructions (PDF). How to get started.
Reader or Adobe Acrobat. The PDF
viewers built into some web browsers ■ Help for Editors (PDF). Formatting help for editors and word processors.
do not support attachments.
Use the buttons below to open the ■ Editable text in Word, including:
Attachments and Bookmarks panes Handbook text with index entries
respectively. Handbook text without index entries
Two versions of “Required Forms”—consult your district’s FL(LOCAL) policy and then use only
A[tattatacchhmmeennttss] one of the following:
Required forms for districts with ONE directory information list.
B[booookkmmaarrkkss]
This set of forms is to be used by a district that has only one list of directory information at
FL(LOCAL). In other words, the district does not have separate categories of directory
information for school-sponsored purposes and for all other purposes.
Required forms for districts with TWO directory information lists.
This set of forms is to be used by a district that has separate directory information lists for
“school-sponsored purposes” and “all other purposes” at FL(LOCAL).
In the attachments pane, double-click a All editable text files are included in both English and Spanish.
file to open it, or right-click the file to
save it as a separate document.
TASB Printing Services
TASB Printing Services offers Texas
school districts a wide array of high-
quality printing services, including
student handbooks and codes of
conduct. Call the TASB Print Shop at
800-580-8272, extension 1140, to find
the fastest, most cost-effective solution
for your district’s printing and
duplicating needs.
TIPS FOR HANDBOOK DEVELOPERS ■ You may wish to include at the front of your handbook a cover page
with campus-specific and/or district information such as the names of
■ We strongly recommend that you do not attempt to edit the handbook members of the board of trustees, the superintendent, campus
without first reading this document, the complete and annotated administrators, school counselors, or the nurse, as well as phone
version of the Model Student Handbook. numbers and business addresses of the campus and/or administrative
offices. Other informational pages near the beginning of the handbook
■ Within the Model, we have identified, where possible, provisions might include:
applicable to certain grade levels so that you can customize your
handbook for the grade levels or campus levels for which your The district’s mission statement and district or campus goals.
handbook is intended.
Information about the role of the board of trustees, when and
■ Be sure to fill in shaded boxes with appropriate information and where meetings are usually held, and where postings of meetings
remove the shading. The turquoise shading represents a choice that the will be placed.
district needs to make from the options provided or a choice to make if
applicable to your district. The bright green shading is where the ■ If the handbook serves an individual campus, you may wish to include:
district should provide missing information such as the district’s name,
appropriate district official and contact information, or the appropriate The campus mission statement or goals.
page number for a referenced section.
The alma mater or fight song.
■ To avoid repeating information in various places in the handbook or
burdening the reader with excessive details, we have included A campus floor plan showing the location of the library, cafeteria,
bracketed “See . . .” notes in the text to guide students and parents to office, etc.
information found elsewhere.
The campus bell schedule (perhaps in chart form to be completed
■ A section labeled REQUIRED NOTICES is included for district by the student to show his or her individual courses/subjects and
personnel to become familiar with important notices that must be teachers).
made to students and parents, as required by state law, federal law, or
state rules. Information is provided on all of the topics listed A calendar of academic and athletic contests, performances, and
throughout the handbook. To help locate the material, we have added other events, such as back-to-school nights, holidays, report card
the heading title within the Model that addresses a particular notice dates, etc.
requirement.
■ Don’t forget to remove TASB’s copyright information from your
■ Several handbook-related documents can be found in a separate district’s handbook.
document titled REQUIRED FORMS.
■ For electronic distribution of the Student Handbook: If the district
■ In the appendixes, we have included forms that the district may find posts its Student Handbook on the district’s website instead of
useful to include with the forms described above and/or throughout the distributing hard copies, it is recommended that at least the REQUIRED
school year, as well as a place to insert your district’s FFI(LOCAL) policy. FORMS and any other relevant forms be copied and distributed to
Distribution of this policy in the student handbook is required by law. students and parents.
■ Throughout this Model, references have been made in certain sections ■ The Model Student Handbook is provided for educational purposes only
to direct the handbook developer to the TASB Regulations Resource to facilitate a general understanding of the law or other regulatory
Manual for sample forms and procedures. The Regulations Resource matter. This information is neither an exhaustive treatment on the
Manual is available to superintendents and policy administrators in the subject nor is this intended to substitute for the advice of an attorney or
Policy Service Resource Library on the myTASB website. other professional advisor. Consult with your attorney or professional
advisor to apply these principles to specific fact situations.
–i–
REQUIRED NOTICES
The following information reflects notices required by state law, federal law, or state rules that
must be made to students and parents. These notices are addressed within the Model Student
Handbook at the Heading Title listed in the right column:
Required Notice Heading Title in the Model Student
Handbook
Consent to release directory information
Consent, Opt-Out, and Refusal Rights: Objecting
The parent’s right to restrict student to the Release of Directory Information
information from being provided to military
recruiters and institutions of higher education Consent, Opt-Out, and Refusal Rights: Objecting
to the Release of Student Information to
Consent for student participation in a survey, Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher
analysis, or evaluation (if funded in whole or in Education
part with U.S. Department of Education [DOE]
funds) Participation in Third-Party Surveys: Consent
The right to opt out of surveys and data Required Before Student Participation in a
collection activities (for surveys not funded by Federally Funded Survey, Analysis, or
the DOE) Evaluation
The right to opt out of a nonemergency invasive Participation in Third-Party Surveys: “Opting
physical exam/screening (except for screenings Out” of Participation in Other Types of Surveys
permitted or required by law) or Screenings and the Disclosure of Personal
Information
Participation in Third-Party Surveys: “Opting
Out” of Participation in Other Types of Surveys
or Screenings and the Disclosure of Personal
Information
Whether the district provides human sexuality Removing a Student From Instruction or
instruction and the parent’s right to remove his Excusing a Student from a Required Component
or her child from this instruction without of Instruction: Human Sexuality Instruction
penalty
Right of Access to Student Records, Curriculum
Student Records and the right to access these Materials, and District Records: Student
records Records
The right to request the professional Right of Access to Student Records, Curriculum
qualifications of teachers and staff Materials, and District Records: Teacher and
Staff Professional Qualifications
The right to request a transfer to a safe public Students with Exceptionalities or Special
school Circumstances: Safety Transfers/Assignments
Assistance provided to students who have
learning difficulties Students with Exceptionalities or Special
Circumstances: Students Who Have Learning
Warning to parents about potential results of a Difficulties or Who Need Special Education
student’s failure to attend school Services
Absences/Attendance: Failure to Comply with
Compulsory Attendance
– ii –
Required Notice Heading Title in the Model Student
Handbook
Distribution of the district’s policies and Bullying
procedures related to bullying
Notification of the career and technical Career and Technical (CTE) Programs;
education (CTE) programs offered in the Nondiscrimination Statement
district, along with a statement of
nondiscrimination in regard to eligibility for
these programs
Information regarding child sexual abuse and Child Sexual Abuse and Other Maltreatment of
other maltreatment of children, including where Children
to access the district’s plan to recognize
symptoms of and prevent child sexual abuse
and other forms of abuse and neglect
Automatic admission guidelines to colleges and College and University Admissions
universities
Opportunities to earn college credit College Credit Courses
The opportunity to enroll in a course through Distance Learning: Texas Virtual School
the Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN), Network (TxVSN)
along with distribution of the district’s written
policy about the opportunity to enroll in TxVSN
courses
Making available information on the state- Electronic Devices and Technology Resources:
developed programs that discuss “sexting” and Unacceptable and Inappropriate Use of
the consequences of this behavior Technology Resources
Information about gang-free zones Gang-Free Zones
The grading guidelines of the grade level, Grading Guidelines
subject area, or campus
Notification of the end-of-course assessments Graduation: Testing Requirements for
required for graduation Graduation
Bacterial meningitis information Health-Related Matters: Bacterial Meningitis
How the district will comply with children’s Physical Activity Requirements: Elementary
physical activity requirements School; Physical Activity Requirements: Junior
High/Middle School
The number of School Health Advisory Council Health-Related Matters: School Health Advisory
(SHAC) meetings held during the previous Council (SHAC)
school year
The parent’s right to obtain a copy of his or her Other Health-Related Matters: Physical Fitness
child’s physical fitness assessment Assessment
Notification of district guidelines regarding Other Health-Related Matters: Vending
vending machines Machines
– iii –
Required Notice Heading Title in the Model Student
Handbook
Notification that the district has adopted Other Health-Related Matters: Tobacco
policies and has procedures regarding penalties Prohibited
for tobacco use by students or others
Notification of compliance with state and Other Health-Related Matters: Asbestos
federal guidelines related to asbestos Management Plan
management
Notification of compliance with state and Other Health-Related Matters: Pest
federal guidelines related to pest management Management Plan
Assistance for homeless students Homeless Students
Required immunizations Immunizations
Nondiscrimination statement Nondiscrimination Statement
District efforts to involve parents in the Parental Involvement
educational system
Notification of local promotion requirements Promotion and Retention
Grade advancement requirements for students Promotion and Retention: Elementary and
in grades 5 and 8 Middle/Junior High Grade Levels
School lunch/meal programs School Facilities: Cafeteria Services
– iv –
Table of Contents
TIPS FOR HANDBOOK DEVELOPERS......................................................................................... i Accessing Student Records .......................................................................................... 16
REQUIRED NOTICES.........................................................................................................................ii Authorized Inspection and Use of Student Records ......................................... 17
PREFACE ................................................................................................................................................1 Teacher and Staff Professional Qualifications ......................................................... 21
SECTION I: PARENTAL RIGHTS ..................................................................................................4 STUDENTS WITH EXCEPTIONALITIES OR SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES ............ 21
Children of Military Families ........................................................................................... 21
CONSENT, OPT-OUT, AND REFUSAL RIGHTS ...................................................................6 Parental Role in Certain Classroom and School Assignments........................... 22
Consent to Conduct a Psychological Evaluation .........................................................6 Multiple Birth Siblings ................................................................................................... 22
Consent to Display a Student’s Original Works and Personal Information ....6 Safety Transfers/Assignments................................................................................... 23
Consent to Receive Parenting and Paternity Awareness Instruction if Service/Assistance Animal Use by Students............................................................. 24
Student is Under Age 14........................................................................................................7 Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or Who Need Special Education
Consent to Video or Audio Record a Student When Not Otherwise Services ..................................................................................................................................... 24
Permitted by Law .....................................................................................................................7 Students Who Receive Special Education Services with Other School-Aged
Prohibiting the Use of Corporal Punishment...............................................................7 Children in the Home .......................................................................................................... 25
Limiting Electronic Communications with Students by District Employees .8 Students Who Speak a Primary Language Other than English......................... 26
Objecting to the Release of Directory Information....................................................9 Students With Physical or Mental Impairments Protected under Section
Objecting to the Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and 504............................................................................................................................................... 26
Institutions of Higher Education (Secondary Grade Levels Only)................... 11 SECTION II: OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS
Participation in Third-Party Surveys............................................................................11 ................................................................................................................................................................. 27
Consent Required Before Student Participation in a Federally Funded ABSENCES/ATTENDANCE..................................................................................................... 27
Survey, Analysis, or Evaluation...................................................................................11 Compulsory Attendance..................................................................................................... 27
“Opting Out” of Participation in Other Types of Surveys or Screenings and Age 18 and Older.............................................................................................................. 27
the Disclosure of Personal Information ................................................................12 Between Ages 6 and 18 ................................................................................................. 27
Prekindergarten and Kindergarten.......................................................................... 29
REMOVING A STUDENT FROM INSTRUCTION OR EXCUSING A STUDENT Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance ..................................................................... 29
FROM A REQUIRED COMPONENT OF INSTRUCTION................................................ 13 All Grade Levels ................................................................................................................ 29
Secondary Grade Levels ................................................................................................ 30
Human Sexuality Instruction ...........................................................................................13 Failure to Comply with Compulsory Attendance.................................................... 31
Reciting a Portion of the Declaration of Independence in Grades 3–12 ....... 14 All Grade Levels ................................................................................................................ 31
Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags...................................................... 14 Attendance for Credit or Final Grade (Kindergarten Through Grade 12) ... 32
Religious or Moral Beliefs..................................................................................................15 Official Attendance-Taking Time (All Grade Levels) ............................................. 35
Tutoring or Test Preparation ..........................................................................................15 Documentation after an Absence (All Grade Levels) ............................................ 35
RIGHT OF ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS, CURRICULUM MATERIALS, AND Doctor’s Note after an Absence for Illness (All Grade Levels) .......................... 35
DISTRICT RECORDS..................................................................................................................15
Instructional Materials .......................................................................................................15
Notices of Certain Student Misconduct to Noncustodial Parent ...................... 16
Student Records.....................................................................................................................16
–v–
Driver License Attendance Verification (Secondary Grade Levels Only)...... 36 Dating Violence...................................................................................................................... 53
ACCOUNTABILITY UNDER STATE AND FEDERAL LAW (All Grade Levels) ..... 36 Discrimination........................................................................................................................ 54
AWARDS AND HONORS (All Grade Levels).....................................................................37 Harassment.............................................................................................................................. 54
BULLYING (All Grade Levels)................................................................................................37 Sexual Harassment and Gender-Based Harassment ............................................. 54
CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE) PROGRAMS (Secondary Grade Retaliation................................................................................................................................ 55
Levels Only) ..................................................................................................................................39 Reporting Procedures ......................................................................................................... 55
CELEBRATIONS (All Grade Levels) ....................................................................................40 Investigation of Report....................................................................................................... 56
CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AND OTHER MALTREATMENT OF CHILDREN (All DISCRIMINATION ...................................................................................................................... 56
Grade Levels) ...............................................................................................................................40 DISTANCE LEARNING .............................................................................................................. 57
CLASS RANK / HIGHEST RANKING STUDENT (Secondary Grade Levels Only) All Grade Levels ..................................................................................................................... 57
............................................................................................................................................................42 Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN) (Secondary Grade Levels) ................ 57
CLASS SCHEDULES (Secondary Grade Levels Only)................................................... 43 DISTRIBUTION OF LITERATURE, PUBLISHED MATERIALS, OR OTHER
COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY ADMISSIONS (Secondary Grade Levels Only) .... 43 DOCUMENTS (All Grade Levels) ......................................................................................... 58
COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES (Secondary Grade Levels Only)................................. 44 School Materials .................................................................................................................... 58
COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS (All Grade Levels)...................................................... 46 Nonschool Materials............................................................................................................ 59
CONDUCT (All Grade Levels) ................................................................................................46
From Students ................................................................................................................... 59
Applicability of School Rules............................................................................................46 From Others........................................................................................................................ 59
Disruptions of School Operations ..................................................................................47 DRESS AND GROOMING (All Grade Levels) ................................................................... 60
Social Events............................................................................................................................48 ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES (All Grade Levels).. 61
COUNSELING................................................................................................................................ 48 Possession and Use of Personal Telecommunications Devices, Including
Academic Counseling...........................................................................................................48 Mobile Telephones ............................................................................................................... 61
Possession and Use of Other Personal Electronic Devices ................................. 62
Elementary and Middle/Junior High School Grade Levels ............................ 48 Instructional Use of Personal Telecommunications and Other Electronic
High School Grade Levels..............................................................................................49 Devices....................................................................................................................................... 62
Personal Counseling (All Grade Levels) ......................................................................49 Acceptable Use of District Technology Resources.................................................. 63
COURSE CREDIT (Secondary Grade Levels Only)........................................................ 50 Unacceptable and Inappropriate Use of Technology Resources...................... 63
CREDIT BY EXAM—If a Student Has Taken the Course/Subject (All Grade END-OF-COURSE (EOC) ASSESSMENTS .......................................................................... 64
Levels) ............................................................................................................................................. 50 EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONS (All Grade
CREDIT BY EXAM FOR ADVANCEMENT/ACCELERATION—If a Student Has Levels)............................................................................................................................................. 64
Not Taken the Course/Subject..............................................................................................51 Standards of Behavior......................................................................................................... 67
Kindergarten Acceleration................................................................................................52 Offices and Elections ........................................................................................................... 68
Students in Grades 1–5.......................................................................................................52 FEES (All Grade Levels)........................................................................................................... 68
Students in Grades 6–12 ....................................................................................................52 FUNDRAISING (All Grade Levels)....................................................................................... 69
DATING VIOLENCE, DISCRIMINATION, HARASSMENT, AND RETALIATION (All
Grade Levels) ...............................................................................................................................53
– vi –
GANG-FREE ZONES (All Grade Levels).............................................................................69 Other Health-Related Matters ......................................................................................... 92
GENDER-BASED HARASSMENT ..........................................................................................70 Physical Fitness Assessment (Grades 3–12)........................................................ 92
GRADE LEVEL CLASSIFICATION (Grades 9–12 Only) ............................................... 70 Vending Machines (All Grade Levels)...................................................................... 92
GRADING GUIDELINES (All Grade Levels)......................................................................70 Tobacco Prohibited (All Grade Levels and All Others on School Property)
GRADUATION (Secondary Grade Levels Only)..............................................................71 .................................................................................................................................................. 93
Asbestos Management Plan (All Grade Levels) .................................................. 93
Requirements for a Diploma for a Student Enrolled in High School Prior to Pest Management Plan (All Grade Levels) ............................................................ 94
the 2014–15 School Year ...................................................................................................71
Requirements for a Diploma Beginning with the 2014–15 School Year....... 72 HOMELESS STUDENTS (All Grade Levels) ..................................................................... 94
Testing Requirements for Graduation..........................................................................72 HOMEWORK (All Grade Levels) .......................................................................................... 95
Minimum, Recommended, and Advanced/Distinguished Achievement ILLNESS.......................................................................................................................................... 95
Graduation Programs ..........................................................................................................73 IMMUNIZATION (All Grade Levels) ................................................................................... 95
Foundation Graduation Program ...................................................................................76 LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES (All Grade Levels).................................................. 97
Personal Graduation Plans for Students Under The Foundation Questioning of Students..................................................................................................... 97
Graduation Program .......................................................................................................79 Students Taken Into Custody ........................................................................................... 97
Available Course Options for all Graduation Programs........................................ 80 Notification of Law Violations......................................................................................... 98
Certificates of Coursework Completion ......................................................................80 LEAVING CAMPUS (All Grade Levels) ............................................................................... 98
Students with Disabilities..................................................................................................81 During Lunch .......................................................................................................................... 99
Graduation Activities ...........................................................................................................82 At Any Other Time During the School Day...............................................................100
Graduation Speakers............................................................................................................83 LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENT STUDENTS (All Grade Levels) ........................100
Graduation Expenses...........................................................................................................84 LOST AND FOUND (All Grade Levels).............................................................................101
Scholarships and Grants.....................................................................................................84 MAKEUP WORK........................................................................................................................101
HARASSMENT.............................................................................................................................. 84 Makeup Work Because of Absence (All Grade Levels) .......................................101
HAZING (All Grade Levels).....................................................................................................84 DAEP Makeup Work...........................................................................................................102
HEALTH-RELATED MATTERS...............................................................................................85
Student Illness (All Grade Levels)..................................................................................85 Elementary and Middle/Junior High School Grade Levels ..........................102
Bacterial Meningitis (All Grade Levels).......................................................................85 Grades 9–12......................................................................................................................102
Food Allergies (All Grade Levels)...................................................................................88 In-school Suspension (ISS) Makeup Work (All Grade Levels) ........................103
Head Lice (All Grade Levels) ............................................................................................88 MEDICINE AT SCHOOL (All Grade Levels)....................................................................104
Physical Activity Requirements .....................................................................................90 Psychotropic Drugs ............................................................................................................107
Elementary School...........................................................................................................90 NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT (All Grade Levels).........................................107
Junior High/Middle School ..........................................................................................90 NONTRADITIONAL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS (All Grade Levels) .........................108
School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) (All Grade Levels) ............................... 91 PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT (All Grade Levels) ...........................................................108
Student Wellness Policy/Wellness Plan (All Grade Levels)................................ 91 Working Together ...............................................................................................................108
– vii –
Parent Involvement Coordinator................................................................................. 110 Trained Dogs (All Grade Levels)...................................................................................124
PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS / HEALTH SCREENINGS.............................................. 111 Metal Detectors (All Grade Levels) .............................................................................124
Drug-Testing (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ........................................................125
Athletics’ Participation (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ................................... 111 SEXUAL HARASSMENT..........................................................................................................125
Other Exams and Screenings (All Grade Levels) .................................................. 111 SPECIAL PROGRAMS (All Grade Levels)........................................................................125
PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE AND A MINUTE OF SILENCE (All Grade Levels) 111 STANDARDIZED TESTING....................................................................................................125
PRAYER (All Grade Levels) ................................................................................................. 112 Secondary Grade Levels ...................................................................................................125
PROMOTION AND RETENTION ........................................................................................ 112
Elementary and Middle/Junior High Grade Levels ............................................. 113 SAT/ACT (Scholastic Aptitude Test and American College Test)..............125
High School Grade Levels................................................................................................ 116 TSI (Texas Success Initiative) Assessment..........................................................126
RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL...................................................................... 116 STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness).........................126
REPORT CARDS / PROGRESS REPORTS AND CONFERENCES (All Grade Grades 3–8 ........................................................................................................................126
Levels).......................................................................................................................................... 116 High School Courses—End-of-Course (EOC) Assessments.........................127
RETALIATION ........................................................................................................................... 118 STEROIDS (Secondary Grade Levels Only)...................................................................128
SAFETY (All Grade Levels) .................................................................................................. 118 STUDENTS IN FOSTER CARE (All Grade Levels) .......................................................129
Accident Insurance............................................................................................................ 118 STUDENT SPEAKERS (All Grade Levels) .......................................................................129
Preparedness Drills: Evacuation, Severe Weather, and Other Emergencies SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION (All Grade Levels)
.................................................................................................................................................... 118 ..........................................................................................................................................................131
Emergency Medical Treatment and Information................................................. 119 SUICIDE AWARENESS (All Grade Levels)......................................................................131
Emergency School-Closing Information .................................................................. 119 SUMMER SCHOOL (All Grade Levels) .............................................................................132
SAT, ACT, AND OTHER STANDARDIZED TESTS.......................................................... 119 TARDIES (All Grade Levels).................................................................................................133
SCHEDULE CHANGES (Middle/Junior High and High School Grade Levels) 120 TEXTBOOKS, ELECTRONIC TEXTBOOKS, TECHNOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT, AND
SCHOOL FACILITIES............................................................................................................... 120 OTHER INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS (All Grade Levels).....................................133
Use by Students Before and After School (All Grade Levels) .......................... 120 TRANSFERS (All Grade Levels)..........................................................................................133
Conduct Before and After School (All Grade Levels) .......................................... 120 TRANSPORTATION (All Grade Levels) ...........................................................................134
Use of Hallways During Class Time (All Grade Levels)...................................... 121 School-Sponsored Trips...................................................................................................134
Cafeteria Services (All Grade Levels)......................................................................... 121 Buses and Other School Vehicles .................................................................................134
Library (All Grade Levels) .............................................................................................. 122 VANDALISM (All Grade Levels)..........................................................................................137
Meetings of Noncurriculum-Related Groups (Secondary Grade Levels Only) VIDEO CAMERAS (All Grade Levels) ...............................................................................137
.................................................................................................................................................... 122 VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL (All Grade Levels) ...........................................................137
SEARCHES .................................................................................................................................. 123 General Visitors ...................................................................................................................137
Students’ Desks and Lockers (All Grade Levels) .................................................. 123 Visitors Participating in Special Programs for Students....................................138
Telecommunications and Other Electronic Devices (All Grade Levels)..... 124 VOLUNTEERS (All Grade Levels) ......................................................................................138
Vehicles on Campus (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ......................................... 124 VOTER REGISTRATION (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ........................................138
– viii –
WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL (All Grade Levels) ................................................ 139
Glossary............................................................................................................................................ 140
APPENDIX I: Freedom From Bullying Policy ................................................................... 143
APPENDIX II: Acknowledgment Form—Amendment ................................................. 144
Index .................................................................................................................................................. 145
– ix –
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
PREFACE
To Students and Parents:
Welcome to school year 2014–152015–16! Education is a team effort, and we This opening statement to students
know that students, parents, teachers, and other staff members all working and parents, usually prepared by the
together can make this a wonderfully successful year for our students. school principal, should be edited to
reflect your personal style.
The [district or school name] Student Handbook is designed to provide a resource
for some of the basic information that you and your child will need during the
school year. In an effort to make it easier to use, theThe handbook is divided into
two sections:
Section I—PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES—with information to The Model Student Handbook is
assist you in responding to school-related issues. We encourage you to take some organized into two sections. The first
time to closely review this section of the handbook. section contains several notices of
parents’ rights in regards to curriculum
Section II—OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND and the school environment. The
PARENTS—organized alphabetically by topic, and, where possible, further second section is arranged topically for
divided by applicability to ages and/or grade levels, for quick access when quick reference by parents, teachers, or
searching for information on a specific issue. administrators.
Please be aware that the term “parent,” unless otherwise noted, is used to refer to
the parent, legal guardian, any person granted some other type of lawful control
of the student, or any other person who has agreed to assume school-related
responsibility for a student.
Both students and parents should become familiar with the [district name] State law requires that the Student
Student Code of Conduct, which is a document adopted by the board and intended Code of Conduct be posted and
to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. That document may be prominently displayed at each campus
found on the district’s website at [__________________] and is available in hard copy or made available for review at the
upon request. office of the campus principal. The
adjacent text instead reflects common
district practice to post this document
for review on the district’s website.
However, the district should have hard
copies of both the Student Handbook
and Code of Conduct readily available
to those who request them.
The Student Handbook is a general reference guide only and is designed to be in
harmony with board policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Please be aware
that it is not a complete statement of all policies, procedures, or rules that may be
applicable in a given circumstance.
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved. 1
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
In case of conflict between board policy (including the Student Code of Conduct)
and any provisions of the Student Handbook, the current provisions of board
policy and the Student Code of Conduct are to be followed.
Also, please be aware that the Student Handbook is updated yearly, while policy Adjust this paragraph to reflect your
adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. The district encourages method of communicating changes to
parents to stay informed of proposed board policy changes by attending board the handbook to parents and students.
meetings. Changes in policy or other rules that affect Student Handbook Appendix II includes a sample form to
provisions will be made available to students and parents through newsletters or communicate handbook amendments
other communications. The district reserves the right to modify provisions of the made during the school year.
Student Handbook at any time, whenever it is deemed necessary. Notice of any
revision or modification will be given as is reasonably practical under the
circumstances.
Although the Student Handbook may refer to rights established through law or
district policy, the Student Handbook does not create any additional rights for
students and parents. It does not, nor is it intended to, create contractual or legal
rights between any student or parent and the district.
If you or your child has questions about any of the material in this handbook, The district could include the generic
please contact [a teacher, the school counselor, or the principal]. contact information, which is
highlighted, or provide a specific
Also, please complete and return to your child’s campus the following forms contact person and telephone number
[included in this handbook OR provided in the forms packet distributed at the in this section.
beginning of the year or upon the student’s enrollment]:
To assist parents in determining what
1. Acknowledgment Form OR Acknowledgment of Electronic Distribution of forms need to be returned to the
Student Handbook form; district, this section has been
presented in the form of a list. If the
2. Notice Regarding Directory Information and Parent’s Response Regarding handbook is to serve elementary
Release of Student Information form; and/or middle school students, delete
item 3 regarding military recruiters.
3. Parent’s Objection to the Release of Student Information to Military Also, if you have no surveys scheduled
Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education form, if you choose to restrict during the school year that would
the release of information to these entities; and require the consent/opt-out form, you
should delete item 4.
4. Consent/Opt-Out Form.
Include any locally developed forms
[See Obtaining Information and Protecting Student Rights on page ____ and that you will distribute at the
Objecting to the Release of Directory Information on page ____ and Consent beginning of the year in the adjacent
Required Before Student Participation in a Federally Funded Survey, list as well.
Analysis, or Evaluation on page ____ for more information.]
If the board has authorized the use of
corporal punishment [see FO(LOCAL)],
consider also including a form with this
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
Please note that references to policy codes are included so that parents can refer set that would allow a parent to
to current board policy. The district’s official policy manual is available for review prohibit the district from
in the superintendent’s office[, and an unofficial electronic copy is available at administering corporal punishment to
____________________]. his or her child. Districts may not
administer corporal punishment if a
parent has submitted a written
statement prohibiting its use. See
Prohibiting the Use of Corporal
Punishment on page 7, and a sample
form that can be used for this purpose
in the TASB Regulations Resource
Manual at FO.
If the hard copy of the district’s official
policy manual is in a different location
(e.g., each campus office or the school
library), please adjust the text in this
section.
Add the URL for the district’s Policy On
Line manual, or remove this statement
if the district’s policies are not
provided online.
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
SECTION I: PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES See FNG(LEGAL) for a list of parental
rights. Also, under the NCLB Act, a
This section of the [district or school] Student Handbook includes information school that receives Title I funds must
related to the certain rights and responsibilities of parents as specified in state or provide parents a description of
federal law and provides parental notices required by law. curriculum, assessment, and
proficiency levels their child is
expected to meet. See Parental
Involvement on page 108 and policy
EF.
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT This provision has been moved to
Section II to accommodate the renewed
focus on specific statutory parental
rights in Section I.
Working Together
Both experience and research tell us that a child’s education succeeds best when 4
there is good communication and a strong partnership between home and school.
Your involvement in this partnership may include:
■ Encouraging your child to put a high priority on education and working with
your child on a daily basis to make the most of the educational opportunities
the school provides.
■ Ensuring that your child completes all homework assignments and special
projects and comes to school each day prepared, rested, and ready to learn.
■ Becoming familiar with all of your child’s school activities and with the
academic programs, including special programs, offered in the district.
■ Discussing with the school counselor or principal any questions you may
have about the options and opportunities available to your child.
■ Reviewing the requirements and options for graduation with your child in
middle school and again while your child is enrolled in high school.
■ Monitoring your child’s academic progress and contacting teachers as
needed. [See Academic Counseling on page ____.]
■ Attending scheduled conferences and requesting additional conferences as
needed. To schedule a telephone or in-person conference with a teacher,
school counselor, or principal, please call the school office at [phone number]
for an appointment. The teacher will usually return your call or meet with
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved.
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
you during his or her conference period or before or after school. [See Report
Cards/Progress Reports and Conferences on page ____.]
■ Becoming a school volunteer. [For further information, see policy GKG and
Volunteers on page _____.]
■ Participating in campus parent organizations. Parent organizations include:
[list current organizations].
■ Serving as a parent representative on the district-level or campus-level
planning committees, assisting in the development of educational goals and
plans to improve student achievement. For further information, see policies
at BQA and BQB, and contact [contact information].
■ Serving on the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), assisting the district
in ensuring local community values are reflected in health education
instruction and other wellness issues. [See policies at BDF, EHAA, FFA, and
information in this handbook at School Health Advisory Council on page
____.]
■ Serving on a committee to determine criteria to be used to evaluate the
overall performance of the district and each campus in community and
student engagement. For further information, please contact the campus
principal.
■ Being aware of the school’s ongoing bullying and harassment prevention
efforts.
■ Contacting school officials if you are concerned with your child’s emotional or
mental well-being.
■ Attending board meetings to learn more about district operations. [See
policies at BE and BED for more information.]
Parent Involvement Coordinator
The Parent Involvement Coordinator, who works with parents of students
participating in Title I programs is [name] and may be contacted at [contact
information].
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
PARENTAL RIGHTS
CONSENT, OPT-OUT, AND REFUSAL RIGHTS
Consent to Conduct a Psychological Evaluation
A district employee will not conduct a psychological examination, test, or Education Code 26.009(a)(1), 38.004
treatment without obtaining prior written parental consent unless the
examination, test, or treatment is required under state or federal law regarding
requirements for special education or by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for
child abuse investigations and reports.
Displaying a Student’s Artwork, Projects, Photos, and Other Original Education Code 26.009, .013;
WorkConsent to Display a Student’s Original Works and Personal FL(LEGAL) and (LOCAL); FL(EXHIBIT)
Information in the TASB Regulations Resource
Manual
Teachers may display students’ work, which may include personally identifiable A student’s original project or artwork
student information, in classrooms or elsewhere on campus as recognition of could be considered an educational
student achievement. record requiring prior consent before it
is used by the district in print, video, or
However, the district will seek parental consent before displaying students’ on a website. In addition, there may be
artwork, special projects, photographs taken by students, original videos or voice copyright and intellectual property
recordings, and other original works on the district’s website, a website affiliated issues related to publishing a student’s
or sponsored by the district, such as a campus or classroom website, and in original work absent parental consent.
district publications, which may include printed materials, videos, or other Therefore, the adjacent text takes the
methods of mass communication. The district will also seek consent before cautionary approach of requiring a
displaying or publishing an original video or voice recording in this manner. district to obtain parental consent
before displaying a student’s original
work or project using mass media. A
sample form to obtain parental consent
is provided in the TASB Regulations
Resource Manual. Videos, voice
recordings, and photographs
mentioned in this section describe
works by a student. See FL for
provisions on district photographs,
video recordings, and voice recordings
and Consent to Video or Audio
Record a Student When Not
Otherwise Permitted by Law, below.
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
Granting Permission toConsent to Receive Parenting and Paternity Education Code 28.002(p-4); 19 TAC
Awareness Instruction if Student is Under Age 14 74.35(a)(5); EHAC(LEGAL)
As a parent, if your child A child is under the age of 14 must have parental , you If the district requires health education
must grant permission for your child to receive instruction in the district’s and teaches this course at the middle
parenting and paternity awareness program; otherwise, the or your child will not or junior high school level, parental
be allowed to participate in the instruction. This program, developed by the Office permission must be received by the
of the Texas Attorney General and the State Board of Education (SBOE), is district, if the student is under the age
incorporated into the district’s health education classes. of 14, before the student may receive
instruction related to the parenting and
paternity awareness program. If this
provision is not applicable, it may be
deleted.
Granting PermissionConsent to Video or Audio Record a Student Education Code 26.009; FL(LEGAL)
When Not Otherwise Permitted by Law
Except for the specific reasons allowed
As a parent, you may grant or deny any written request from the district to make in law, parental consent should always
a video or voice recording of your child. State law, however, permits the school to be obtained before making or
make a video or voice recording without parental permission for the following authorizing any video or voice
circumstances: recording of a student.
■ When it is to be used for school safety;
■ When it relates to classroom instruction or a cocurricular or extracurricular
activity; or
■ When it relates to media coverage of the school.
The district will seek parental consent through a written request before making
any video or voice recording of your child not otherwise allowed by law.
Prohibiting the Use of Corporal Punishment Education Code 37.0011; FO(LEGAL)
and (LOCAL); Student Code of Conduct;
Corporal punishment—spanking or paddling the student—may be used as a Include this section only if the board FO(EXHIBIT) in the TASB Regulations
discipline management technique in accordance with the Student Code of has authorized the use of corporal Resource Manual
Conduct and policy FO(LOCAL) in the district’s policy manual. punishment.
7
If you do not want corporal punishment to be administered to your child as a In accordance with law, a district may
method of student discipline, please return the form included in this handbook not administer corporal punishment if
OR please return the form included in the forms packet OR submit a written the student’s parent has presented a
statement to the campus principal stating this decision. A signed statement must signed, written statement prohibiting
be provided each year if you do not want corporal punishment to be administered the use of this discipline method. The
to your child. statement must be provided annually,
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved.
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
You may choose to revoke this prohibition at any time during the year by and a parent may revoke this statement
providing a signed statement to the campus principal. However, district personnel at any time by providing a signed,
may choose to use discipline methods other than corporal punishment even if the written revocation statement.
parent requests that this method be used on the student.
A sample form prohibiting the use of
corporal punishment is included in the
TASB Regulations Resource Manual.
Adjust the adjacent text accordingly
based on whether the district will
make a form available with the other
forms included with the handbook.
Please note that if the district is made aware that a student is in temporary or It is the policy of Child Protective http://tea.texas.gov/FosterCare
permanent conservatorship (custody) of the state, through foster care, kinship Services (CPS) that children and youth StudentSuccess/
care, or other arrangements, corporal punishment shall not be administered, even in the custody of the Texas Department
when a signed statement prohibiting its use has not been submitted by the of Family and Protective Services
student’s caregiver or caseworker. (TDFPS) not receive physical discipline,
including corporal punishment.
Although a child’s CPS caseworker is
charged with submitting a signed
prohibition statement in this case, or
ensuring the child’s caregiver does so,
the district should assist in this
facilitation when it is aware that a child
is in TDFPS conservatorship.
Requesting Limited or No Contact with a Student through Electronic DH(LOCAL) and (EXHIBIT); TASB HR
MediaLimiting Electronic Communications with Students by District Services Model Employee Handbook
Employees
Teachers and other approved employees are permitted by the district to Consistent with provisions included in
communicate with students through the use of electronic media within the scope the Model Employee Handbook issued
of the individual’s professional responsibilities. For example, a teacher may set up by TASB HR Services, an employee may
a social networking page for his or her class that has information related to class set up class or professional social
work, homework, and tests. As a parent, you are welcome to join or become a network pages to communicate with
member of such a page. groups of students. However, if an
employee is using electronic media to
An employee described above may also contact a student individually through communicate with students
electronic media to communicate about items such as homework or upcoming individually, the employee must
tests. discontinue this method of
communication if a parent requests
Include this text if the district restricts instant or text messages to only those that this type of communication cease
employees who are responsible for extracurricular activities: However, instant or or not be used at all. If you restrict
text messages sent to an individual student are only allowed if a district employee
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
with responsibility for an extracurricular activity needs to communicate with a instant messaging or text messaging
student participating in the extracurricular activity. only to teachers, trainers, or other
employees who hold responsibilities
If you prefer that your child not receive any one-to-one electronic for extracurricular activities, as
communications from a district employee or if you have questions related to the provided in the Model Employee
use of electronic media by district employees, please contact the campus Handbook, include the statement in
principal. turquoise shading.
Make sure to notify employees of the
district’s procedures and policies
regarding the use of electronic media.
Objecting to the Release of Directory Information The district is required by state law to Education Code 26.013; FL(LEGAL)
provide (in at least 14-point boldface and (LOCAL); http://familypolicy.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, or FERPA, The law permits the type) a specific notice to parents of the ed.gov/content/ferpa-model-notice-
district to disclosedesignate appropriately designated certain personal provisions under FERPA and of the directory-information
information about students as “directory information.” from a child’s education parent’s right to object to the release of
records without written consent. “Directory information” is information that is “directory information.” A district may
generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released. This designate as directory information
“directory information” will be released to anyone who follows procedures for some or all information defined as
requesting it. directory information by FERPA. See
the appropriate “Notice Regarding
However, a parent or eligible student may object to the release of a student’s Directory Information” form available
directory information may be prevented by the parent or an eligible student. This in the packet of required forms and
objection must be made in writing to the principal [within ten school days of your attached to this annotated PDF.
child’s first day of instruction for this school year OR oninsert a later date Coordinate the list on your form(s)
established by the district]. [See the “Notice Regarding Directory Information and with FL(LOCAL). If you change the
Parent’s Response Regarding Release of Student Information” included in this name of the notice/form, please revise
handbook OR included in the forms packet.] the information in this section and
elsewhere in the handbook. Note that
the state-required notice in 14-point or
larger boldface type must precede or
be located on the same page as the
district’s directory information forms
for parents to sign.
If the district deletes an item on the
list, the district cannot release or use
that information, even for school
purposes, without consent. For
example, if the district omits student
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
photographs from the list of designated
directory information, these
photographs could not be released to
the general public without consent.
Choose the first option if the district’s FL(LOCAL) contains two directory The district has the option under state
information lists: As allowed by state law, the district has identified two directory law of designating in policy a separate
information lists—one for school-sponsored purposes and the second for all list of student information as directory
other requests. For all district publications and announcements, The district often information for specific school-
needs to use student information for the following school-sponsored purposes: sponsored purposes and a list for all
[list school-sponsored purposes as found in your FL(LOCAL)]. For these specific other purposes. Include the first option
school-sponsored purposes, the district has designated the following as directory in the adjacent section only if this is the
information: [include only those items listed as directory information for school- district’s practice after reviewing your
sponsored purposes in your FL(LOCAL)]. If you do not object to the use of your FL(LOCAL).
child’s information for these limited school-sponsored purposes, the school will
not need to ask your permission each time the district wishes to use the If your FL(LOCAL) does not currently
information for the school-sponsored purposes listed above. include provisions identifying school-
sponsored purposes and all other
For all other purposes, the district has identified the following as directory purposes, and instead contains only
information: [list the directory information identified for all other purposes in one list of student directory
your FL(LOCAL)]. If you do not object to the use of your child’s information for information, include only the second
these purposes, the school must release this information when the school option in the adjacent section.
receives a request from an outside entity or individual.
The federal FERPA regulations allow
OR districts to designate directory
information for specific purposes,
Choose the following option if the district has not separated its directory specific parties, or both. For example,
information list at FL(LOCAL): The district has identified the following as requests for student information from
directory information: [include only those items listed as directory information in school-support organizations, such as
your FL(LOCAL)]. If you object to the release of the student information included PTA and booster clubs, are not
on the directory information response form, your decision will also apply to the generally considered to fall under
use of that information for school-sponsored purposes, such as the honor roll, “school-sponsored purposes.” Some
school newspaper, the yearbook, recognition activities, news releases, and athletic districts have communicated to TASB
programs. Policy Service that they would like to
be able to release more information to
school-support organizations when
they have chosen an otherwise limited
list for nonschool-sponsored requests.
TASB Policy Service has developed
sample language to establish a separate
list of directory information for school-
support organizations. If you choose to
do this, your notices pertaining to
directory information will also need to
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
Also review the information at Authorized Inspection and Use of Student be revised, and you will need to modify
Records on page ____. the adjacent text. Contact your policy
consultant if you wish to review the
sample policy text and sample notices.
Objecting to the Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters If your handbook is not intended for FL(LEGAL);
and Institutions of Higher Education (Secondary Grade Levels Only) distribution to secondary grade level http://familypolicy.ed.gov/faq-page/
students, you may delete this provision. military-recruiter
The district is required by federal law to comply with a request by a military This is a requirement of the NCLB Act.
recruiter or an institution of higher education for students’ names, addresses, and
telephone listings, unless parents have advised the district not to release their See the Parent’s Objection to the
child’s information without prior written consent. A form [included in this Release of Student Information to
handbook OR included in the forms packet] is available if you do not want the Military Recruiters and Institutions
district to provide this information to military recruiters or institutions of higher of Higher Education form available in
education. the set of required forms as an
attachment to this PDF.
Participation in Third-Party Surveys
Obtaining Information and Protecting Student RightsConsent Required This notice to parents must be EF(LEGAL);
Before Student Participation in a Federally Funded Survey, Analysis, or provided annually at the beginning of http://familypolicy.ed.gov/content/
Evaluation the school year and must include the model-notification-rights-under-
specific or approximate dates during protection-pupil-rights-amendment-
Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any the school year when these activities ppra
survey, analysis, or evaluation—funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department are scheduled or are expected to be
of Education—that concerns: scheduled. This consent form is
available in the set of required forms as
■ Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent. an attachment to this PDF.
■ Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family.
■ Sexual behavior or attitudes.
■ Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.
■ Critical appraisals of individuals with whom the student has a close family
relationship.
■ Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers,
physicians, and ministers.
■ Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents.
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
■ Income, except when the information is required by law and will be used to
determine the student’s eligibility to participate in a special program or to
receive financial assistance under such a program.
You will be able to inspect the survey or other instrument and any instructional
materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation. [For
further information, see policy EF(LEGAL).]
“Opting Out” of Participation in Other Types of Surveys or Screenings and The NCLB Act also requires notice to EF(LEGAL), FFAA(LEGAL);
the Disclosure of Personal Information and Activities parents when a survey is not funded by http://familypolicy.ed.gov/content/
DOE funds. model-notification-rights-under-
As a parent, you have a right to receive notice of and deny permission for your protection-pupil-rights-amendment-
child’s participation in: ppra
■ Any survey concerning the private information listed above, regardless of
funding.
■ School activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal This notice must be provided to
information gathered from your child for the purpose of marketing, selling, or parents at least annually and at the
otherwise disclosing that information. Note that this does not apply to the beginning of the school year. A model
collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students opt out form is included in the set of
for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating, or providing educational required forms as an attachment to this
products or services for, or to, students or educational institutions. PDF.
The notice should include the specific
or approximate dates during the school
year when activities are scheduled or
expected to be scheduled.
■ Any nonemergency, invasive physical examination or screening required as a The physical fitness assessment and
condition of attendance, administered and scheduled by the school in Type 2 diabetes risk assessment, in the
advance and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of the regions where this assessment is
student. Exceptions are hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any required, are among the exceptions
physical exam or screening permitted or required under state law. [See since these are required by state law.
policies EF and FFAA.]
Inspecting Surveys
As a parent, you may inspect a survey created by a third party before the survey is
administered or distributed to your child.
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REMOVING A STUDENT FROM INSTRUCTION OR EXCUSING
A STUDENT FROM A REQUIRED COMPONENT OF
INSTRUCTION
Removing a Student from Human Sexuality Instruction Education Code 28.004(e)–(j);
EHAA(LEGAL)
As a part of the district’s curriculum, students receive instruction related to
human sexuality. The School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) is involved with the State law requires that the district
selection of course materials for such instruction. provide written notice before each
school year of the board’s decision
State law requires that any instruction related to human sexuality, sexually regarding whether the district will
transmitted diseases, or human immunodeficiency virus or acquired immune provide human sexuality instruction.
deficiency syndrome must: Whether you send a letter or choose to
use the handbook as this notice, you
■ Present abstinence from sexual activity as the preferred choice of behavior in must include a summary of the basic
relationship to all sexual activity for unmarried persons of school age; content of the instruction, along with a
statement of the parent’s right to
■ Devote more attention to abstinence from sexual activity than to any other review the material and remove the
behavior; student without penalty from this
instruction, and information describing
■ Emphasize that abstinence is the only method that is 100 percent effective in the opportunity for parental
preventing pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and the emotional involvement in the development of the
trauma associated with adolescent sexual activity; human sexuality curriculum.
■ Direct adolescents to a standard of behavior in which abstinence from sexual
activity before marriage is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy and
sexually transmitted diseases; and
■ If included in the content of the curriculum, teach contraception and condom
use in terms of human use reality rates instead of theoretical laboratory rates.
In accordance with state law, below is a summary of the district’s curriculum
regarding human sexuality instruction:
[Insert summary of district curriculum for human sexuality instruction.]
As a parent, you are entitled to review the curriculum materials. In addition, you
may remove your child from any part of the human sexuality instruction with no
academic, disciplinary, or other penalties. You may also choose to become more
involved with the development of curriculum used for this purpose by becoming a
member of the district’s SHAC. Please see the campus principal for additional
information.
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Excusing a Student from Reciting a Portion of the Declaration of Education Code 29.907; 19 TAC
Independence in Grades 3–12 74.33(b), .36; EHBK(LEGAL)
You may request that your child be excused from recitation of a portion of the State law designates the week in which
Declaration of Independence. State law requires students in social studies classes September 17 falls as Celebrate
in grades 3–12 to recite a portion of the text of the Declaration of Independence Freedom Week. A State Board of
during Celebrate Freedom Week unless (1) you provide a written statement Education rule requires instruction
requesting that your child be excused, (2) the district determines that your child concerning the intent, meaning, and
has a conscientious objection to the recitation, or (3) you are a representative of a importance of the Declaration of
foreign government to whom the United States government extends diplomatic Independence and the United States
immunity. [See policy EHBK(LEGAL).] Constitution in their historical contexts
for all social studies classes. The rule
also requires a specific recitation from
the Declaration of Independence for
students in grades 3–12.
Congress has declared September 17 of
each year, or if that date falls on a
holiday or a weekend, a day during the
prior week or following week, to be
Constitution Day, on which each
district receiving federal funds will
provide an educational program to
implement Constitution Day.
Information about the district’s
obligations regarding Constitution Day
may be found at
http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/taa/polprog
091310.html.
Excusing a Student from Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Education Code 25.082; EC(LEGAL)
Flags
As a parent, you may request that your child be excused from participation in the A student’s parent or guardian can
daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge request in writing that the child be
of Allegiance to the Texas flag. The request must be in writing. State law does not excused from reciting one or both
allow your child to be excused from participation in the required minute of pledges. On the advice of legal counsel,
silence or silent activity that follows. [See Pledges of Allegiance and a Minute of the district might also consider
Silence on page ____ and policy EC(LEGAL).] honoring a student’s own request to be
excused from reciting the Pledges of
Allegiance.
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The law requires that one minute of
silence follow recitation of the pledges.
Removing a Student Temporarily from the ClassroomReligious or Education Code 26.010; EMB(LEGAL)
Moral Beliefs
You may remove your child temporarily from the classroom if an instructional
activity in which your child is scheduled to participate conflicts with your
religious or moral beliefs. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a
test and may not extend for an entire semester. Further, your child must satisfy
grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the school and by
state law.
Removing a Student from Class for Tutoring or Test Preparation Education Code 25.083(b), 29.084;
Purposes EC(LEGAL), EHBC(LEGAL)
Based on informal observations, evaluative data such as grades earned on Included here is information to remind
assignments or tests, or results from diagnostic assessments, a teacher may districts of the prohibition on removing
determine that a student is in need of additional targeted assistance in order for a student for remedial tutoring or test
the student to achieve mastery in state-developed essential knowledge and skills. preparation for more than ten percent
The school will always attempt to provide tutoring and strategies for test-taking of the days the class is offered, absent
in ways that prevent removal from other instruction as much as possible. In parental permission. Also remember
accordance with state law and policy EC, the school will not remove a student that, under Education Code 29.084,
from a regularly scheduled class for remedial tutoring or test preparation for students with grades below 70 for a
more than ten percent of the school days on which the class is offered, unless the reporting period would be required to
student’s parent consents to this removal. attend tutorial services if the district
offers these services.
The school may also offer tutorial services, which students whose grades are
below 70 will be required to attend.
[Also refer to policies EC and EHBC, and contact your student’s teacher with
questions about any tutoring programs provided by the school.]
RIGHT OF ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS, CURRICULUM
MATERIALS, AND DISTRICT RECORDS
Reviewing Instructional Materials Education Code 26.006; EF(LEGAL)
As a parent, you have a right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other Administrators should be sure that all
teaching aids and instructional materials used in the curriculum, and to examine teachers—especially new teachers—
know that state and federal law require
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
tests that have been administered to your child. that parents have full access to
teaching materials to be used for their
[Also see Removing a Student Temporarily from the Classroom on page ____ child.
and Removing a Student from Human Sexuality Instruction on page ____ for
additional information.]
Requesting Notices of Certain Student Misconduct to Noncustodial Education Code 37.0091; FL(LEGAL),
Parent FO(LEGAL); Student Code of Conduct
A noncustodial parent may request in writing that he or she be provided, for the This request cannot be denied unless
remainder of the school year, a copy of any written notice usually provided to a the district has knowledge of an
parent related to his or her child’s misconduct that may involve placement in a applicable court order that would
disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) or expulsion. [See policy prohibit granting the request.
FO(LEGAL) and the Student Code of Conduct.]
Student Records
Accessing Student Records Education Code 26.004–.006;
EF(LEGAL), EKB(LEGAL), FL(LEGAL)
You may review your child’s student records. These records include:
■ Attendance records,
■ Test scores,
■ Grades,
■ Disciplinary records,
■ Counseling records,
■ Psychological records,
■ Applications for admission,
■ Health and immunization information,
■ Other medical records,
■ Teacher and school counselor evaluations,
■ Reports of behavioral patterns,
■ State assessment instruments that have been administered to your child, and
■ Teaching materials and tests used in your child’s classroom.
[See Student Records on page ____.]
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
Authorized Inspection and Use of Student Records We have revised this section to more FL(LEGAL) and (LOCAL);
closely mirror the federal model FERPA http://familypolicy.ed.gov/content/mo
A federal law, known as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, or FERPA, notice. del-notification-rights-under-ferpa-
affords parents and eligible students certain rights with respect to the student’s elementary-and-secondary-schools
education records. For purposes of student records, an “eligible” student is one
who is 18 or older or who is attending an institution of postsecondary education.
These rights, as discussed in this section as well as at Objecting to the Release of
Directory Information on page ____, are:
■ The right to inspect and review student records within 45 days after the day
the school receives a request for access.
■ The right to request an amendment to a student record the parent or eligible
student believes is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of FERPA.
■ The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally
identifiable information from the student’s records, except to the extent that
FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
■ The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education
concerning failures by the school to comply with FERPA requirements. The
name and address of the office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5901
Both federal FERPA and state laws safeguard student records from unauthorized Be sure that this section continues to
inspection or use and provide parents and eligible students certain rights of match the district’s FL policy. The
privacy. Before disclosing any personally identifiable information from a student’s information on student records is
records, the district must verify the identity of the person, including a parent or required by law to be published
the student, requesting the information. For purposes of student records, an annually and should be translated and
“eligible” student is one who is 18 or older or who is attending an institution of published or explained in a language
postsecondary education. understood by the parents of students
whose primary or home language is
not English.
Virtually all information pertaining to student performance, including grades, test
results, and disciplinary records, is considered confidential educational records.
Release is restricted to:
Inspection and release of student records is primarily restricted to Thean eligible Since a court could terminate a
student or a student’s parents—whether married, separated, or divorced—unless parent’s right to access a child’s
the school is given a copy of a court order terminating parental rights or the right education records, we have specified
to access a student’s education records. that as an exception in this text.
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
Federal law requires that, as soon as a student becomes 18, is emancipated by a Federal regulations allow a parent to
court, or enrolls in a postsecondary institution, control of the records goes to the access records after a student reaches
student. The parents may continue to have access to the records, however, if the 18 if the student is a dependent for tax
student is a dependent for tax purposes and under limited circumstances when purposes or if the parent needs access
there is a threat to the health and safety of the student or other individuals. in an emergency to protect the health
and safety of the student or another
individual.
Because violation can mean loss of
federal education funds, all staff
members who have access to student
records should be trained regarding
federal confidentiality protections.
FERPA permits the disclosure of personally identifiable information from a Note that except for disclosures to
student’s education records, without written consent of the parent or eligible school officials, disclosures related to
student, in the following circumstances: some judicial orders or lawfully issued
subpoenas, disclosures of directory
information, and disclosures to the
parent or eligible student, you must
keep a record of any other disclosure. A
parent or eligible student has a right to
inspect and review the record of
disclosures.
■ When Ddistrict school officials who have what federal law refers to as a Please review your FL(LOCAL) and
“legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records. School officials would adjust this text to reflect what is in
include trustees board members and employees, such as the superintendent, your policy.
administrators, and principals; teachers, school counselors, diagnosticians, If the district employs its own police
and support staff (including district health or district medical staff); a person officers or contracts with a local law
or company with whom the district has contracted or allowed to provide a enforcement agency for a regular
particular institutional service or function (such as an attorney, consultant, presence of school resource officers
third-party vendor that offers online programs or software, auditor, medical (SROs), they may be “school officials”
consultant, therapist, school resource officer, or volunteer); a parent or for purposes of access to student
student serving on a school committee; or a parent or student assisting a records. Remember that the officer
school official in the performance of his or her duties. “Legitimate educational must still have a legitimate educational
interest” in a student’s records includes working with the student; interest in the records.
considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, or an
individualized education program for a student with disabilities; compiling
statistical data; reviewing an educational record to fulfill the official’s
professional responsibility to the school and the student; or investigating or
evaluating programs.
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
■ To authorized representatives of Vvarious governmental agencies, including The current FERPA regulations clarify
juvenile service providers, the U.S. Comptroller General’s office, the U.S. that a school may release student
Attorney General’s office, the U.S. Secretary of Education, TEA, the U.S. records without parental consent to
Secretary of Agriculture’s office, and Child Protective Services (CPS) caseworkers and state child welfare
caseworkers or other child welfare representatives, in certain cases. personnel, if they are acting on behalf
of the student.
■ To Iindividuals or entities granted access in response to a subpoena or court
order. If a court order is issued as a result of a
case regarding child abuse and neglect,
■ To Aanother school, school district/system, or institution of postsecondary records may be released without
education to which a student seeks or intends to enroll or in which he or she notification to the parent, if the parent
is already enrolled. is involved in the case.
■ In connection with financial aid for which a student has applied or which the
student has received.
■ To accrediting organizations to carry out accrediting functions.
■ To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to
develop, validate, or administer predictive tests; administer student aid
programs; or improve instruction.
■ To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency.
■ When the district discloses information it has designated as directory
information [see Objecting to the Release of Directory Information on
page ____ for opportunities to prohibit this disclosure].
Release of personally identifiable information to any other person or agency—
such as a prospective employer or for a scholarship application—will occur only
with parental or student permission as appropriate.
The [principal OR superintendent] is custodian of all records for currently Be sure this information regarding who
enrolled students at the assigned school. The [principal OR superintendent] is the serves as custodian of records is
custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated. accurate. Coordinate with FL(LOCAL).
A parent or eligible student who wishes to inspect the student’s records should
submit a written request to the records custodian identifying the records he or
she wishes to inspect. Records may be inspected by a parent or eligible student
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
during regular school hours. The records custodian or designee will respond to
reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records.
A parent or eligible student who provides a written request and pays copying If the district charges a different rate Education Code 26.012
costs of ten cents per page may obtain copies. If circumstances prevent inspection for copies, please revise the text.
during regular school hours and the student qualifies for free or reduced-price
meals, the district will either provide a copy of the records requested or make Include the physical address of the
other arrangements for the parent or student to review these records. The superintendent and the principal. If
address of the superintendent’s office is [insert address]. this handbook is used for more than
one campus, include the physical
addresses of each principal.
The address(es) of the principals’ offices are: [insert addresses]. Adjust this section if the district only
has one principal or if the
superintendent also serves as the
principal.
A parent (or eligible student) may inspect the student’s records and request a
correction or amendment if the records are considered inaccurate, misleading, or
otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights. A request to correct a
student’s record should be submitted to the [principal OR
superintendent]appropriate records custodian. The request must clearly identify
the part of the record that should be corrected and include an explanation of how
the information in the record is inaccurate. If the district denies the request to
amend the records, the parent or eligible student has the right to request a
hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the parent or
eligible student has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement
commenting on the information in the student’s record.
Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, contesting a student’s
grade in a course or on an examination is handled through the general complaint
process found in policy FNG(LOCAL). A grade issued by a classroom teacher can
be changed only if, as determined by the board of trustees, the grade is arbitrary,
erroneous, or inconsistent with the district’s grading policy. [See FINALITY OF
GRADES at FNG(LEGAL), Report Cards/Progress Reports and Conferences on
page ____, and Student or Parent Complaints and Concerns on page ____ for an
overview of the process.]
The district’s policy regarding student records found at policy FL is available from If the district’s policies are available on
the principal’s or superintendent’s office [or on the district’s website at the Internet through Policy On Line, add
____________________]. the URL here.
The parent’s or eligible student’s right of access to and copies of student records
do not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
records—such as a teacher’s personal notes about a student that are shared only
with a substitute teacher—do not have to be made available to the parents or
student.
Please note:
Parents or eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S.
Department of Education if they believe the district is not in compliance with
federal law regarding student records. The complaint may be mailed to:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5901
Requesting Teacher and Staff Professional Qualifications of Teachers Under the NCLB Act, any district that 20 U.S.C. 6311(h)(6); DBA(LEGAL);
and Staff receives Title I funds must notify the http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?
parents of each student attending a req=(title:20%20section:6311%20
You may request information regarding the professional qualifications of your school that receives Title I funds that edition:prelim)%20OR%20
child’s teachers, including whether a teacher has met state qualification and they may request the information listed (granuleid:USC-prelim-title20-
licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher here about their child’s teacher or a section6311)&f=treesort&edition=
provides instruction; whether the teacher has an emergency permit or other paraprofessional working with their prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true
provisional status for which state requirements have been waived; and child.
undergraduate and graduate degree majors, graduate certifications, and the field
of study of the certification or degree. You also have the right to request
information about the qualifications of any paraprofessional who may provide
services to your child.
STUDENTS WITH EXCEPTIONALITIES OR SPECIAL
CIRCUMSTANCES
Accommodations for Children of Military Families Education Code 162.002; FDD(LEGAL)
21
Children of military families will be provided flexibility regarding certain district The state of Texas is a member of the
requirements, including: Interstate Compact on Educational
Opportunities for Military Children,
■ Immunization requirements. which entitles students of military
■ Grade level, course, or educational program placement. families to flexibility regarding certain
■ Eligibility requirements for participation in extracurricular activities. district and state requirements. State
■ Graduation requirements. law requires that absences related to
parent deployment be considered as
days of attendance for purposes of the
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved.
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
In addition, absences related to a student visiting with his or her parent, including district’s ADA funding. However, these
a stepparent or legal guardian, who has been called to active duty for, is on leave absences are limited to five per school
from, or is returning from a deployment of at least four months will be excused by year, and Education Code 25.087(b-4)
the district. The district will permit no more than five excused absences per year and the adjacent text describe the
for this purpose. For the absence to be excused, the absence must occur no earlier circumstances for which they will be
than the 60th day before deployment or no later than the 30th day after the excused. The district may excuse
parent’s return from deployment. additional absences under existing
statutory authority to excuse any
Additional information may be found at absence at the principal’s discretion,
http://tea.texas.gov/index2.aspx?id=7995. but ADA funding would not be
http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=7995. generated. If your district will allow
additional absences, update the
adjacent text accordingly.
Parental Role in Certain Classroom and School Assignments
Requesting Classroom Assignment for Multiple Birth Siblings Education Code 25.043; FDB(LEGAL)
As a parent, if your children are multiple birth siblings (e.g., twins, triplets, etc.) You may delete this section if you do
assigned to the same grade and campus, you may request that they be placed not have more than one classroom
either in the same classroom or in separate classrooms. Your written request serving a particular grade level on any
must be submitted no later than the 14th day after the enrollment of your single campus. As permitted under
children. [See policy FDB(LEGAL).] state law, a parent of multiple birth
siblings may request that these
siblings, if they are assigned to the
same grade and campus, be placed in
the same classroom or in separate
classrooms. The request must be
granted, unless it would require the
district to add an additional class to the
grade level of the siblings.
At the end of the first grading period
following enrollment, the principal
may determine appropriate placement,
and the parent may appeal the decision
in accordance with FNG(LOCAL);
however, during the appeal, the
students would remain in the
classroom(s) requested by the parent.
This statute does not affect placements
determined by an admission, review,
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
and dismissal (ARD) committee or the
authority of a teacher to remove a
student from his or her classroom in
accordance with the Student Code of
Conduct.
School Safety Transfers/Assignments
As a parent, you may: Districts have the authority to transfer Education Code 25.0342, 37.0832;
a student found to have engaged in FDB(LEGAL), FFI(LEGAL)
■ Request the transfer of your child to another classroom or campus if your bullying either to another classroom at
child has been determined by the district to have been a victim of bullying as the same campus or another campus
the term is defined by Education Code 37.0832. Transportation is not within the district. If the board wishes
provided for a transfer to another campus. See the [superintendent OR to transfer a student who engaged in
principal] for information. bullying to another campus in the
district, the student’s parents must be
■ Consult with district administrators if your child has been determined by the consulted. Therefore, text is included
district to have engaged in bullying and the board decides to transfer your here to address the parent’s right to be
child to another classroom or campus. Transportation is not provided for a consulted prior to this type of transfer
transfer to another campus. but, for ease of implementation, also
provides that a parent would be
[See Bullying on page ____, policy FDB, and policy FFI.] consulted for a transfer to another
classroom as well. If the district does
not have multiple campuses that serve
the same grade levels, you may remove
the references to “another campus” in
the adjacent section. See Bullying in
Section II for more information.
■ Request the transfer of your child to attend a safe public school in the district The “Unsafe Schools” transfer is a FDE(LEGAL);
if your child attends school at a campus identified by TEA as persistently requirement of the NCLB Act. Notice http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?
dangerous or if your child has been a victim of a violent criminal offense must be provided to parents. req=(title:20%20section:7912%20
while at school or on school grounds. [See policy FDE.] edition:prelim)%20OR%20
(granuleid:USC-prelim-title20-
section7912)&f=treesort&edition=
prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true
■ Request the transfer of your child to [another district campus OR a If the district has only one campus Education Code 25.0341; FDE(LEGAL)
neighboring district] if your child has been the victim of a sexual assault by serving a particular grade level, include
another student assigned to the same campus, whether the assault occurred the option to transfer to a neighboring
on or off campus, and that student has been convicted of or placed on district. Note that the neighboring
deferred adjudication for that assault. If the victim does not wish to transfer, district must agree to accept a transfer
the district will transfer the assailant in accordance with policy FDE. request in this case.
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
Request for the Use of a Service/Assistance Animal Use by Students Human Resources Code 121.002–.005;
FBA(LEGAL); FBA in the TASB
A parent of a student who uses a service/assistance animal because of the Regulations Resource Manual;
student’s disability must submit a request in writing to the principal at least ten http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-
district business days before bringing the service/assistance animal on campus. idx?SID=8f015aac3de3ed210fc9cb6daf
be4deb&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title28/
28cfr35_main_02.tpl
Providing Assistance to Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or TEA provides districts with a written Education Code 26.0081, 29.004;
Who Need Special Education Services explanation of options and EHBAA(LEGAL), FB(LEGAL);
requirements for providing assistance http://tea.texas.gov/index2.aspx?id=
If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the person to students with learning difficulties or 2147499632
listed below to learn about the district’s overall general education referral or who may need special education
screening system for support services. This system links students to a variety of services. This explanation must be
support options, including referral for a special education evaluation. Students provided each school year, in the
having difficulty in the regular classroom should be considered for tutorial, Student Handbook or by another
compensatory, and other academic or behavior support services that are available means. If the Student Handbook is the
to all students including a process based on Response to Intervention (RtI). The chosen method of communication, be
implementation of RtI has the potential to have a positive impact on the ability of sure to include here the complete
districts to meet the needs of all struggling students. explanation. The adjacent text contains
the statement required by TEA. Please
be aware that this text was last revised
by TEA in July 2012.
As of the publication date of the Model,
TEA had not yet revised this statement
to reflect the new timeline for
evaluation identified in current statute.
However, we have adjusted the text in
the adjacent section to refer to the
timeline prescribed by law. Before
finalizing your own Student Handbook
for the 2015-16 school year, be sure to
monitor the link below to determine if
TEA has revised the required
statement.
At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for special education
services. Within a reasonable amount of time, the district must decide if the
evaluation is needed. If the evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
asked to provide informed written consent for the evaluation. The district must
complete the evaluation and the report within the timeline prescribed by law
once the district receives written consent. The district must give a copy of the
evaluation report to the parent.
If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the district will
provide the parent with prior written notice that explains why the child will not
be evaluated. This written notice will include a statement that informs the
parents of their rights, if they disagree with the district. The district is required to
give parents the Notice of Procedural Safeguards—Rights of Parents of Students
with Disabilities. Additional information regarding the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is available from the school district in a
companion document, A Guide to the Admission, Review, and Dismissal Process.
Both documents may also be found at
http://framework.esc18.net/display/Webforms/LandingPage.aspx.
The following websites provide information to those who are seeking information
and resources specific to students with disabilities and their families:
■ Texas Project First, at http://www.texasprojectfirst.org
■ Partners Resource Network, at http://www.partnerstx.org
The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing TEA requires the district to list the
learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education services is name and phone number of the contact
[name] at [phone number]. person.
Parents of Students with DisabilitiesWho Receive Special Education Education Code 25.0343; FDB(LEGAL)
Services with Other School-Aged Children in the Home
If a student is receiving special education services at a campus outside his or her State law permits a student to obtain
attendance zone, the parent or guardian may request that any other student an intradistrict transfer to the same
residing in the household be transferred to the same campus, if the appropriate campus as another student living in the
grade level for the transferring student is offered on that campus. However, the household who is receiving special
district is not required to provide transportation to the other children in the education services at a campus outside
household. The parent or guardian should speak with the principal of the school his or her attendance zone. The student
regarding any transportation needs prior to requesting a transfer for any other must be eligible to attend school in the
children in the home. [See policy FDB(LOCAL).] district in accordance with Education
Code 25.001 [see FD(LEGAL)], and the
requesting student’s grade level must
be offered at that campus.
The district is not required to provide 25
transportation for a student
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved.
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
transferring under this provision.
Please note that the student receiving
special education services would still
be entitled to transportation.
If intradistrict transfers are not
possible in your district, e.g., the
district does not have multiple
campuses that serve the same grade
levels, delete the adjacent section since
the information would not be relevant
for the district.
Parents of Students Who Speak a Primary Language Other than Education Code Chapter 29,
English Subchapter B; EHBE(LEGAL),
EKBA(LEGAL)
A student may be eligible to receive specialized support if his or her primary
language is not English, and the student has difficulty performing ordinary class This general statement regarding
work in English. If the student qualifies for these extra services, the Language services for limited English proficient
Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC) will determine the types of services students informs parents of the
the student needs, including accommodations or modifications related to district’s ESL or bilingual programs.
classroom instruction, local assessments, and state-mandated assessments. Refer to Section II and the provision
labeled Limited English Proficient
Students to include details about the
district’s ESL or bilingual programs.
Students With Physical or Mental Impairments Protected under FB(LEGAL) and (LOCAL)
Section 504
A child determined to have a physical or mental impairment that substantially Based on recommendations from the
limits a major life activity, as defined by law, and who does not otherwise qualify Office for Civil Rights (OCR), included is
for special education services, may qualify for protections under Section 504 of information associated with the
the Rehabilitation Act. Section 504 is a federal law designed to prohibit protections under Section 504, as
discrimination against individuals with disabilities. When an evaluation is opposed to the specific references to
requested, a committee will be formed to determine if the child is in need of specialized services and supports of
services and supports under Section 504 to receive a free appropriate public IDEA, above. Complete the information
education (FAPE), as this is defined in federal law. regarding who a parent or other
individual should contact if an
The designated person to contact regarding a referral for evaluation applicable to evaluation for services/protections
Section 504 is [name] at [phone number]. under Section 504 is desired.
[Also see policy FB.]
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
SECTION II: OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR
STUDENTS AND PARENTS
Topics in this section of the Student Handbook contain important information on Be sure to provide the name and phone
academics, school activities, and school operations and requirements. Take a number of the individual a parent
moment with your child to become familiar with the various issues addressed in should contact with questions.
this section. It is organized in alphabetical order to serve as a quick-reference
when you or your child has a question about a specific school-related issue.
Where possible, the topics are also organized to alert you to the applicability of
each topic based on a student’s age or grade level. Should you be unable to find
the information on a particular topic, please contact [name] at [phone number].
ABSENCES/ATTENDANCE
Regular school attendance is essential for a student to make the most of his or her
education—to benefit from teacher-led and school activities, to build each day’s
learning on the previous day’s, and to grow as an individual. Absences from class
may result in serious disruption of a student’s mastery of the instructional
materials; therefore, the student and parent should make every effort to avoid
unnecessary absences. Two state laws—one dealing with the required presence
of school-aged children in school, e.g., compulsory attendance, the other with how
a child’s attendance affects the award of a student’s final grade or course credit—
are of special interest to students and parents. They are discussed below.
Compulsory Attendance
Age 18 and Older Education Code 25.085(e), (f);
FEA(LEGAL) and (LOCAL)
A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her 18th birthday is Districts may choose to revoke
required to attend each school day until the end of the school year. If a student 18 enrollment of students who are 18 or Education Code 25.085(b), (d),
or older has more than five unexcused absences in a semester, the district may older, but the offense of failure to 29.082(g), .084, .086, 37.008(l), .021;
revoke the student’s enrollment. The student’s presence on school property attend school is limited to students EHBC(LEGAL), FEA(LEGAL) and
thereafter would be unauthorized and may be considered trespassing. [See policy between the ages of 12 and 17. (LOCAL)
FEA.]
Between Ages 6 and 18 Adjust the text according to whether
you offer tutorial sessions under
State law requires that a student between the ages of six and 18 attend school, as
well as any applicable accelerated instruction program, extended year program,
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
or tutorial session, unless the student is otherwise excused from attendance or Education Code 29.084, the extended-
legally exempt. year program under Education Code
29.082, basic skills for ninth graders
under Education Code 29.086, or
summer school under Education Code
37.008(l) or 37.021.
Please note that students who are
eligible to use district transportation
during the regular school year are
entitled under Education Code
29.082(g) to transportation for an
extended-year program.
A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her 18th birthday is
required to attend each school day until the end of the school year. If a student 18
or older has more than five unexcused absences in a semester, the district may
revoke the student’s enrollment. The student’s presence on school property
thereafter would be unauthorized and may be considered trespassing. [See policy
FEA.]
State law requires attendance in an accelerated reading instruction program When the Commissioner of Education Education Code 28.006(f), (g), (k);
when kindergarten, first grade, or second grade students are assigned to such a certifies that funds have been EHBC(LEGAL), EKC(LEGAL)
program. Parents will be notified in writing if their child is assigned to an appropriated, the district must provide
accelerated reading instruction program as a result of a diagnostic reading an accelerated reading instruction
instrument. program for kindergarten, first grade,
or second grade students identified by
a diagnostic reading instrument to be
at risk of dyslexia or other reading
difficulties, for which the district may
use compensatory education funds.
A student will be required to attend any assigned accelerated instruction The Education Code specifies that Education Code 28.0211(a-1), (c),
program, which may occur before or after school or during the summer, if the accelerated instruction must be .0217; 19 TAC Chapter 101;
student does not meet the passing standards on the state assessment for his or provided (1) each time a student in EIE(LEGAL)
her grade level and/or applicable subject area. grades 3–8 fails to perform
satisfactorily on a state assessment and
(2) when a student fails to perform
satisfactorily on an end-of-course
assessment. Participation in
accelerated instruction may include
participation before or after normal
school hours or normal school
operations. However, the compulsory
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved. 28
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
attendance requirement in Education
Code 25.085 does not extend to
participation in EOC assessment
accelerated instruction. Note that
current Commissioner rules at TAC
101.2006(b) require districts to
provide transportation to these
programs if they are held outside of
school hours.
Prekindergarten and Kindergarten Education Code 25.085; FEA(LEGAL)
Students enrolled in prekindergarten or kindergarten are required to attend If applicable, include this statement
school and are subject to the compulsory attendance requirements as long as they regarding attendance requirements for
remain enrolled. students in prekindergarten or
kindergarten.
State law requires attendance in an accelerated reading instruction program
when kindergarten, first grade, or second grade students are assigned to such a
program. Parents will be notified in writing if their child is assigned to an
accelerated reading instruction program as a result of a diagnostic reading
instrument.
A student will be required to attend any assigned accelerated instruction
program, which may occur before or after school or during the summer, if the
student does not meet the passing standards on the state assessment for his or
her grade level and/or applicable subject area.
Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance
All Grade Levels Education Code 25.087; 19 TAC
129.21(j)(3); FEA(LEGAL)
State law allows exemptions to the compulsory attendance requirements for
several types of absences if the student makes up all work. These include the The corresponding list references
following activities and events: current mandatory excused absences
related to compulsory attendance
■ Religious holy days; requirements. For religious holy days,
■ Required court appearances; required court appearances, activities
■ Activities related to obtaining United States citizenship; related to obtaining citizenship, and
■ Service as an election clerk; the absences listed for students in the
conservatorship of the state, one day of
travel to the site and one day of travel
from the site must also be excused by
the district.
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TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
■ Documented health-care appointments for the student or a child of the As mentioned above at Children of
student, including absences for recognized services for students diagnosed Military Families, absences due to
with autism spectrum disorders. A note from the health-care provider must visits of students with their parents,
be submitted upon the student’s arrival or return to campus; and stepparents, or legal guardians are
exempted from compulsory attendance
■ For students in the conservatorship (custody) of the state, requirements in certain circumstances.
Mental health or therapy appointments; or
Court-ordered family visitations or any other court-ordered activity,
provided it is not practicable to schedule the student’s participation in
the activity outside of school hours.
As listed in Section I at Accommodations for Children of Military Families,
absences of up to five days will be excused for a student to visit with a parent,
stepparent, or legal guardian who has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or
immediately returned from certain deployments. Please see page ____ for that
section.
Secondary Grade Levels Delete this section if your handbook is Education Code 25.087(b-1), (b-2), (c),
not intended for secondary grade (d); 19 TAC 129.21(j)(3); FEA(LEGAL)
levels. and (LOCAL)
In addition, a junior or senior student’s absence of up to two days related to The permissive exemption to allow a
visiting a college or university will be considered an exemption, provided this has junior or senior student up to two days
been authorized by the board under policy FEA(LOCAL), the student receives each year to visit a college or
approval from the campus principal, follows the campus procedures to verify university, is included based on
such a visit, and makes up any work missed. common district practice and is
coordinated with most districts’
FEA(LOCAL) policies to permit such an
exemption. Revise the text, if necessary,
to reflect district practice.
Absences of up to two days in a school year will also be considered an exemption The permissive exemption to allow a
for: student to serve as an early voting
election clerk is included based on
■ a A student serving as an early voting clerk, provided the district’s board of most districts’ FEA(LOCAL) policies
trustees has authorized this in policy FEA(LOCAL), the student notifies his or that provide for this type of absence, as
her teachers, and the student receives approval from the principal prior to authorized in law.
the absences, and.
Service as an election clerk is a
■ A student servingService as an election clerk, if the student makes up any mandatory exemption from
work missed. ; compulsory attendance, and, similar to
the other mandatory exemptions
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved. 30
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
described above, allows for one day of
travel to and one day of travel from the
site. However, state law only allows a
maximum of two days in a school year
under compulsory attendance
exemptions for service as an early
voting clerk or election clerk.
As listed in Section I at Accommodations for Children of Military Families, As mentioned above at
absences of up to five days will be excused for a student to visit with a parent, Accommodations for Children of
stepparent, or legal guardian who has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or Military Families, absences due to
immediately returned from certain deployments. Please see page ____ for that visits of students with their parents,
section. stepparents, or legal guardians are
exempted from compulsory attendance
requirements in certain circumstances.
An absence of a student in grades 6–12 for the purpose of sounding “Taps” at a This is a permissive exemption but is
military honors funeral for a deceased veteran will also be excused by the district. included in the adjacent text since most
districts do excuse an absence for this
purpose. If you do not allow this, adjust
or delete the text.
Failure to Comply with Compulsory Attendance FEA(LEGAL), FED(LEGAL)
All Grade Levels Education Code 25.095(a), (b), .0951
School employees must investigate and report violations of the state compulsory At the beginning of the school year, the
attendance law. A student absent without permission from school; from any class; district must send a written warning to
from required special programs, such as additional special instruction, termed parents about potential results of any
“accelerated instruction” by the state; or from required tutorials will be voluntary nonattendance on the part of
considered in violation of the compulsory attendance law and subject to their child.
disciplinary action.
A court of law may also impose penalties against both the student and his or her The law requires specific notice to Education Code 25.095(b), .0951
parents if a school-aged student is deliberately not attending school. A complaint parents if their child has unexcused
against the parent may be filed in court if the student: absences for three days or parts of days
within a four-week period. This notice
must:
■ Inform the parents of their duty to
monitor and require their child’s
attendance at school;
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved. 31
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
■ Advise them of the possibility of
prosecution for contributing to
nonattendance; and
■ Request a conference between the
parents and school officials to
discuss the absences.
■ Is absent without excuse from school on ten or more days or parts of days
within a six-month period in the same school year, or
■ Is absent without excuse on three or more days or parts of days within a four-
week period.
For a student younger than 12 years of age, the student’s parent could be charged The violation for failure to attend is Education Code 25.0915, .093, .094
with an offense based on the student’s failure to attend school. currently limited to students between
the ages of 12 and 17.
If a student age 12 through age 17 violates the compulsory attendance law, both
the parent and student could be charged with an offense. School peace officers or attendance
officers, as applicable, are responsible
[See policy FEA(LEGAL).] for applying truancy prevention
measures before filing truancy
complaints to the court. The school
must certify that these truancy
prevention measures were applied and
failed to meaningfully address the
student’s school attendance. In
addition, the school must specify
whether the student is eligible for or
receives special education services. A
court must dismiss a complaint or
referral if these requirements are not
fulfilled. Consider adding information
in this section referencing the truancy
prevention measures used in your
district.
Attendance for Credit or Final Grade (Kindergarten Through Grade 12) Education Code 25.092; FEC(LEGAL)
and (LOCAL)
Choose the first option if the district utilizes the “principal’s plan” as authorized in Choose one of the options listed or
law: To receive credit or a final grade in a class, a student in kindergarten–grade revise accordingly based on your 32
12 must attend at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered. A student who FEC(LOCAL).
attends at least 75 percent but fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is
offered may receive credit or a final grade for the class if he or she completes a
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved.
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
plan, approved by the principal, that allows the student to fulfill the instructional
requirements for the class. If a student is involved in a criminal or juvenile court
proceeding, the approval of the judge presiding over the case will also be required
before the student receives credit or a final grade for the class.
If a student attends less than 75 percent of the days a class is offered or has not
completed the plan approved by the principal, then the student will be referred to
the attendance review committee to determine whether there are extenuating
circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain credit or a final
grade lost because of absences. [See policy FEC.]
OR
Choose the following option if the district does not use the principal’s plan and
instead relies on the attendance committee for all attendance-related issues: To
receive credit or a final grade in a class, a student must attend at least 90 percent
of the days the class is offered. A student who attends fewer than 90 percent of
the days the class is offered will be referred to the attendance review committee
to determine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and
how the student can regain credit or a final grade lost because of absences. [See
policy FEC.]
In determining whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences, See FEC(LOCAL) to ensure that these
the attendance committee will use the following guidelines: guidelines are consistent with those in
the district’s local policy.
■ All absences, whether excused or unexcused, must be considered in The Attorney General in opinion No. JC-
determining whether a student has attended the required percentage of days. 398, July 11, 2001, stated that in order
If makeup work is completed, absences for the reasons listed above at to receive credit in a class, students
Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance will be considered days of must actually attend the class 90
attendanceextenuating circumstances for purposes of attendance for credit percent of the days the class is offered.
or the award of a final gradethis purpose. Excused absences are counted as days
■ A transfer or migrant student begins to accumulate absences only after he or of attendance for purposes of the
she has enrolled in the district. compulsory attendance law [see FEA],
but do not automatically count toward
■ In reaching a decision about a student’s absences, the committee will attempt days of attendance for purposes of
to ensure that it is in the best interest of the student. receiving credit or a final grade under
state law. The majority of districts’
FEC(LOCAL) policies do consider these
absences to be extenuating
circumstances if all required
documentation has been submitted
and makeup work has been completed.
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved. 33
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
■ Choose if your attendance committee always considers absences for As mentioned above, all absences FEC(LOCAL), FM(LOCAL)
participation in extracurricular activities as extenuating circumstances to the should be considered for the 90
90 percent rule. The committee will review absences incurred based on the percent requirement. If your
student’s participation in board-approved extracurricular activities. These attendance committee considers as
absences will be considered by the attendance committee as extenuating extenuating circumstances absences
circumstances in accordance with the absences allowed under FM(LOCAL) if for a student’s participation in
the student made up the work missed in each class. extracurricular activities, as allowed by
FM(LOCAL), include the adjacent text.
If your attendance committee does not
always consider these extenuating
circumstances, you may delete this text
from your handbook.
■ The committee will consider the acceptability and authenticity of
documented reasons for the student’s absences.
■ The committee will consider whether the absences were for reasons over When the attendance committee
which the student or the student’s parent could exercise any control. reviews student absences, the
committee should consider as an
extenuating circumstance any absences
due to a district-imposed exclusion
from school because of head lice. See
Head Lice at Health-Related Matters,
below.
■ The committee will consider the extent to which the student has completed
all assignments, mastered the essential knowledge and skills, and maintained
passing grades in the course or subject.
■ The student or parent will be given an opportunity to present any
information to the committee about the absences and to talk about ways to
earn or regain credit or a final grade.
The student or parent may appeal the committee’s decision to the board of
trustees by filing a written request with the superintendent in accordance withby
following policy FNG(LOCAL).
The actual number of days a student must be in attendance in order to receive
credit or a final grade will depend on whether the class is for a full semester or for
a full year.
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved. 34
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
Official Attendance-Taking Time (All Grade Levels) State Board of Education rules allow a 19 TAC 129.21; Student Attendance
board to delegate to the Accounting Handbook; FEB(LEGAL) and
The district must submit attendance of its students to the Texas Education Agency superintendent the authority to (LOCAL); FEB in the TASB Regulations
(TEA) reflecting attendance at a specific time each day. establish procedures related to Resource Manual
recording absences in an alternative
Official attendance is taken every day [during the second instructional hour or OR hour other than the second or fifth
fifth instructional hour or OR at __________]. instructional hour, as normally
required. Most districts’ FEB(LOCAL)
A student absent for any portion of the day, including at the official attendance- policies provide that delegation. Any
taking time, should follow the procedures below to provide documentation of the decision to record absences in an
absence. alternative hour must be in accordance
with TEA’s Student Attendance
Accounting Handbook (SAAH).
Documentation after an Absence (All Grade Levels) Student Attendance Accounting
Handbook; FEB in the TASB Regulations
When a student is absent from school, the student—upon arrival or return to Revise the text according to your Resource Manual
school—must bring a note signed by the parent that describes the reason for the practice on what documentation you
absence. A note signed by the student, even with the parent’s permission, will not require for student absences, and any
be accepted unless the student is 18 or older or is an emancipated minor under procedures related to excusing or
state law. A phone call from the parent may be accepted, but the district reserves “unexcusing” absences.
the right to require a written note.
In the TASB Regulations Resource
The campus will document in its attendance records for the student whether the Manual, there are sample procedures
absence is considered by the district to be excused or unexcused. Please note that, and forms to assist you with
unless the absence is for a statutorily allowed reason under compulsory establishing the required
attendance laws, the district is not required to excuse any absence, even if the documentation after absences.
parent provides a note explaining the absence.
Doctor’s Note after an Absence for Illness (All Grade Levels) FEC(LOCAL)
Upon return to school, a student absent for more than [number of days] Refer to your FEC(LOCAL), and the
consecutive days because of a personal illness must bring a statement from a section titled PERSONAL ILLNESS, in
doctor or health clinic verifying the illness or condition that caused the student’s order to complete this section
extended absence from school. Otherwise, the student’s absence may be specifying whether and when a
considered unexcused and, if so, would be considered to be in violation of doctor’s note will be required after an
compulsory attendance laws. absence. Delete the first paragraph if
your policy contains no such
Should the student develop a questionable pattern of absences, the principal or requirement.
attendance committee may require a statement from a doctor or health clinic
verifying the illness or condition that caused the student’s absence from school in
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved. 35
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
order to determine whether the absence or absences will be excused or
unexcused.
[See policy FEC(LOCAL).]
Driver License Attendance Verification (Secondary Grade Levels Only) The current verification of enrollment http://www4.esc13.net/uploads/
(VOE) form was last revised in July drivers/docs/forms/
For a student between the ages of 16 and 18 to obtain a driver license, written 2012. VOE_Form-2012.pdf.
parental permission must be provided for the Texas Department of Public Safety
(DPS) to access the student’s attendance records and, in certain circumstances,
for a school administrator to provide the student’s attendance information to
DPS. A verification of enrollment (VOE) form may be obtained from the office,
which the student will need to submit to DPS upon application for a driver
license.
ACCOUNTABILITY UNDER STATE AND FEDERAL LAW (All Based on the continued emphasis on Education Code 39.053, .054, .0545,
Grade Levels) transparency and accountability, we Chapter 39 Subchapter D, Chapter 39
have added this section to give parents Subchapter G, 39.303–.307, .309, .361–
[District name] and each of its campuses are held to certain standards of and students a brief description of the .362; 19 TAC 61.1021, .1022, .1023; 19
accountability under state and federal law. A key component of the accountability available reports related to TAC 97.1001; 19 TAC 109.1005;
requirements is the dissemination and publication of certain reports and accountability. Note that there is AIB(LEGAL); http://www2.ed.gov/
information, which include: currently no legal requirement to post policy/elsec/leg/esea02/pg2.html.
this information in your Student
■ The Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR) for the district, compiled by Handbook, but you must adhere to the
TEA, the state agency that oversees public education, based on academic requirements of dissemination and
factors and ratings; publication nonetheless. Consider
posting the links to where students and
■ A School Report Card (SRC) for each campus in the district compiled by TEA parents can find your local reports.
based on academic factors and ratings;
■ The district’s financial management report, which will include the financial
accountability rating assigned to the district by TEA;
■ The performance ratings of the district’s evaluation of community and
student engagement using the indicators required by law; and
■ Information compiled by TEA for the submission of a federal report card that
is required by the No Child Left Behind Act.
Information about all of these can be found on the district’s website at
_______________________________. Hard copies of any reports are available upon request
to the district’s administration office.
TEA also maintains additional accountability and accreditation information at
http://www.texasschoolaccountabilitydashboard.org and
http://www.tea.texas.gov.
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved. 36
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
AWARDS AND HONORS (All Grade Levels) FG(LOCAL), if the district has this
policy
List awards, such as attendance
awards, honors, and the applicable
eligibility criteria, e.g., honor roll,
National Honor Society, etc.
BULLYING (All Grade Levels) Education Code 25.0342, 37.0832;
FDB(LEGAL), FFI(LEGAL) and
Bullying occurs when a student or group of students engages in written or verbal (LOCAL); FDB and FFI in the TASB
expression, expression through electronic methods, or physical conduct against Regulations Resource Manual
another student on school property, at a school-sponsored or -related activity, or
in a district operated vehicle, and the behavior:
■ Results in harm to the student or the student’s property,
■ Places a student in reasonable fear of physical harm or of damage to the
student’s property, or
■ Is so severe, persistent, and pervasive that it creates an intimidating,
threatening, or abusive educational environment.
This conduct is considered bullying if it exploits an imbalance of power between
the student perpetrator(s) and the student victim and if it interferes with a
student’s education or substantially disrupts the operation of the school.
Bullying is prohibited by the district and could include hazing, threats, taunting,
teasing, confinement, assault, demands for money, destruction of property, theft
of valued possessions, name-calling, rumor-spreading, or ostracism. In some
cases, bullying can occur through electronic methods, called “cyberbullying.”
If a student believes that he or she has experienced bullying or has witnessed
bullying of another student, it is important for the student or parent to notify a
teacher, school counselor, principal, or another district employee as soon as
possible to obtain assistance and intervention. The administration will investigate
any allegations of bullying or other related misconduct.
If the results of an investigation indicate that bullying has occurred, the State law requires that both the
administration will take appropriate disciplinary action. Disciplinary or other parents of the victim and of the student
action may be taken even if the conduct did not rise to the level of bullying. The perpetrator be contacted within a
district will also contact the parents of the victim and of the student who was reasonable amount of time after an
found to have engaged in the bullying. Available counseling options will be incident of bullying is confirmed. The
provided to these individuals, as well as to any students who have been identified district must also inform both sets of
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved. 37
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
as witnesses to the bullying. individuals, as well as any witnesses, of
Any retaliation against a student who reports an incident of bullying is prohibited. counseling options.
Upon the recommendation of the administration, the board may, in response to an As reflected in FDB(LEGAL), the board
identified case of bullying, decide to transfer a student found to have engaged in may transfer a student who has been
bullying to another classroom at the campus. In consultation with the student’s determined to have engaged in bullying
parent, the student may also be transferred to another campus in the district. The either to another classroom at the
parent of a student who has been determined by the district to be a victim of campus or another campus within the
bullying may request that his or her child be transferred to another classroom or district. Any transfers to another
campus within the district. [Also see Safety Transfers/Assignments School campus in the district require
Safety Transfers on page ____.] consultation with the student’s parent.
Be aware that statute refers to the
“board’s” authority to transfer a
student perpetrator to another
classroom or campus in the district, as
opposed to the “board or its designee.”
Refer to the TASB Regulations Resource
Manual at FDB for assistance when
considering transfers related to
bullying. If your district does not have
more than one campus that serves the
same grade levels, the adjacent
material reflecting the transfer to
another campus may be removed.
A copy of the district’s policy is available in the principal’s office, superintendent’s Annually, the district’s bullying policy
office, and on the district’s website, and is included at the end of this handbook in and procedures must be included in
the form of an appendix. Procedures related to reporting allegations of bullying student and employee handbooks, as
may also be found on the district’s website. well as in the district improvement
plan. It is recommended that you
A student or parent who is dissatisfied with the outcome of an investigation may include an actual copy of your district’s
appeal through policy FNG(LOCAL). FFI(LOCAL) within your Student
Handbook rather than solely providing
[Also see Safety Transfers/Assignments on page _____, Dating Violence, an Internet link to the policy. See
Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation on page _____, School Safety Appendix I of this document for a
Transfers on page _____, Hazing on page ____, policy FFI, and the district placeholder to insert your (LOCAL)
improvement plan, a copy of which can be viewed in the campus office.] policy. To the extent practicable, the
procedures for reporting bullying must
also be included on the district’s
website; sample web text for posting
reporting procedures is available in the
TASB Regulations Resource Manual at
FFI.
TASB Model Student Handbook © 2015 by Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. All rights reserved. 38
TEXT EDITORIAL NOTES REFERENCES
If the district has a designated person
who coordinates the district’s anti-
bullying efforts, consider adding that
information here as well as in policy
FFI(LOCAL).
Insert the appropriate page numbers
for Safety Transfers/Assignments,
Dating Violence, Discrimination,
Harassment, and Retaliation, and
Hazing, and adjust, if needed, where or
how your district improvement plan
can be viewed.
CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE) PROGRAMS
(Secondary Grade Levels Only)
The district offers career and technical education programs in the following This section reflects the public http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/
areas: ____________. Admission to these programs is based on ____________________. notification requirements of the U.S. list/ocr/docs/vocre.html;
Office for Civil Rights (OCR) regarding
career and technical education http://tea.texas.gov/About_TEA/News
appropriate for districts offering _and_Multimedia/Correspondence/
secondary grades. Include your TAA_Letters/Required_Annual_
program areas and the criteria for Notification_of_Nondiscrimination_in_
admission. Current state rules require Career_and_Technical_Education_
the district to offer a coherent Programs_(2014)/
sequence of courses selected from at
least three of the approved sixteen
career clusters.
These programs will be offered without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, Because the district is required to
or disability. [District name] will take steps to ensure that lack of English provide notice to students and parents
language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all of its nondiscrimination practices in
educational and CTE programs. [Also see Nondiscrimination Statement on page the CTE programs, as well as to identify
____ for additional information regarding the district’s efforts regarding the Title IX and Section 504
participation in these programsthe name and contact information for the Title IX coordinator in this notice, a cross-
coordinator and Section 504 coordinator, who will address certain allegations of reference to the Nondiscrimination
discrimination.] Statement is included. Add the page
number where this statement can be
found.
TEA states that local newspapers,
websites, or other media that reach the
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