SBDM Council Policy Manual 2017-2018 · Web viewSBDM Council Policy Manual 2017-2018 BELL COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLA publication for School Based Decision Making Councils. SBDM Policy Manual

SBDM Council Policy Manual 2017-2018

BELL COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL A publication for School Based Decision Making Councils.

SBDM Policy Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS

By-laws Information (Operational Procedures) School By-law Policy Development

SBDM - Legally Required Policies SBDM Legally Required Policy Index - #1000 Alignment with State Standards Assignment of Students to Advanced Placement Courses Assignment of Instructional Staff to Advanced Placement Courses Committee Structure Consultation for Hiring Other than the Principal Curriculum Discipline Adoption of Emergency Plan Enhancing Student Achievement Extracurricular Programs Instructional Practices Program Appraisal Parent Involvement (Title I) School Schedule School Space Assignment of Instructional and Non-Instructional Staff Time Assignment of Students to Classes and Programs within the School Technology Use Wellness and Nutrition Writing

SBDM - Best Practice PoliciesSBDM Best Practices Index - #2000 Budget Selection of Instructional Materials Professional Development Classroom Assessment Equity and Diversity Homework Improvement Planning Primary Program Principal Selection Protection of Instructional Time Student and Family Support Services Dress Code Cell Phone Work Release

By-laws Information

OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES

SBDM POLICY MANUAL

Bell County High School

School Based Decision Making Council By-Laws

This is a general overview of the Bell County High School SBDM By-Laws. A complete copy of all SBDM By-Laws can be found in the school office and is available for viewing during regular business hours. For further information, please contact the building principal or any SBDM Council member.

SBDM POLICY MANUAL



Operating ProceduresINDEX

I. Operating Council Meetings

II. Code of Ethics

III. Procedures for Electing Council Members

IV. Procedures for Removing Council Members

V. Authority of Council and Principal

VI. Appeal of Council Decisions

VII. Selection of a Principal

Operating ProceduresI. Operating Council Meetings

Types of Meetings: Council Members shall attend three types of meetings:

Regular Meetings – held on a set day of the month and at a set time of day. Special Meetings – scheduled as needed between Regular Meetings. (Agendas for these meetings cannot be amended to include new items for discussion.) Trainings – designed to acquire knowledge and/or develop skills.

Agenda:Each regular and special council meeting shall operate by an agenda. The chairperson shall form the agenda with items provided by Council Members. Teachers and parents not on the Council may recommend items for the agenda by contacting a Council Member or the principal. The agenda shall be approved by the council at the beginning of each meeting.

Chairperson:The principal shall serve as chairperson at all meetings. The council shall not meet in absence of the principal. If a vacancy exists, the council will have the authority to meet and develop criteria for selection of the principal and conduct interviews. The responsibilities of the principal as chairperson shall not be delegated to any other member of the council.

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Operating Procedures(Continued)

Decision Making:The primary method of making decisions shall be by consensus. An effort shall be made to thoroughly discuss all possible alternatives, provide everyone ample opportunity to be heard, and make a final choice that can be supported by the group. In the event consensus cannot be reached, a delay in making the decision can be used as one alternative to help reach consensus.

In the event a decision is necessary and the council determines majority rule is an acceptable process to make the decision, then majority rule will be followed. Decisions by majority rule shall require a simple majority of the members present. A tie vote will result in no action.

Policy Approval:Any policy presented to the council will require two readings before passage. In the case of an emergency, the council must declare that an emergency does exist by a majority vote. Then the policy can be implemented immediately.

Quorum:In order for a quorum to exist, at least two teachers, one parent and the chairperson must be present.

Minutes:Minutes of all council meetings shall be recorded in writing and kept on file in the principal’s office. The council shall approve minutes. Minutes will be distributed to all staff members and anyone else that request a copy.

Open Meetings:All council meetings shall be open to the public except when personnel, legal issues effecting the council, or rights to privacy issues are under consideration. Under one or more of these conditions a council may go into executive session. All decisions made by the council shall be in an open public meeting. The council shall abide by the State’s open meetings law (KRS 61.810).

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Recording Secretary:The council shall provide a qualified person to serve as recording secretary who shall be responsible for:

Recording in writing all minutes of meetings. Process minutes. Process and disseminate meeting agendas. Disseminate minutes to staff and other interested parties. Disseminate council information to the media.

Input from non-council members:Those who are in attendance at the council meetings shall be provided an opportunity to discuss issues under consideration by the council by the following procedures:

When appropriate, a sign-in sheet will be provided by topic for interested parties to indicate their interest in speaking.

The chairperson will recognize speakers in the order, which they have signed in. Each speaker will be limited to 5 minutes.

Input/Reactions must be related to the topic being discussed, and must be within the authority of the council.

II. Council Code of Ethics

The code of ethics for a school council member is a set of professional standards for council members to follow as they work as a team, as they make decisions affecting the school, and more specifically the children served by the school.

A code of ethics shall be adopted by the first school council at Bell County High School and shall be reviewed annually by each council thereafter and amended as needed. A written code of ethics shall be included in the SBDM policies.

Each year, all council members shall read and show by his/her signature a commitment to the code of ethics.

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III. Procedures for Electing Council Members

Parent Members:A parent group representing the school will conduct the election of parent members. If such an organization does not exist, a committee of parents will be selected to conduct the election.

All Parents must be notified through the media (newspaper, radio, etc.) or a letter home to all eligible parents.

Parents can consult the Kentucky Department of Education or the Kentucky Association of School Councils (KASC) for information concerning eligibility of parents and guidance for the nomination and election process.

Teacher Members: Members of the certified will conduct the election of the teacher members. A deadline for nominations and an election date will be set. Teachers will be notified of the nomination deadline and the day of the election through announcements, e-mail or in writing.

Only certified staff members can nominate someone or run for a council position.

The election will take place during the school day. Teacher members must be elected by one-half of the teachers assigned to the building plus one. In cases where a majority of the votes cannot be obtained by one of the candidates, the teacher with the lowest vote total will be eliminated off the ballet until someone is able to obtain a majority of the eligible voters.

Further information on the election of council members can be found in the district SBDM policies and Synergy.

In the event of a council member leaving the council for any reason, a special election will be held to fill the vacancy. The nomination guidelines and election procedures mentioned above will be followed.

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IV. Procedures for Removing Council Members

Reason for dismissal:Each council member is expected to attend all council meetings except in case of illness or family obligations. Members are also expected to abide by the code of ethics of the council and by school board policies. Council members may be removed from office for the following reasons:

Missing three consecutive council meetings without a valid reason such as illness and family obligations. Violation of the council’s code of ethics. Violation of the Bell County Board of Education policies. Demonstrating an unwillingness to work collaboratively with the school council and the school.

Procedures for removal:The council begins the removal process by authorizing the chairperson to write the council member a letter explaining the removal procedures and reasons for removal.

Schedule a hearing and include the date, time, and place in the letter. The council shall conduct a hearing and then make the final decision. The chairperson shall preside over the hearing. The council member may call witnesses to help him/her with validating his/her position.

In the event the member is removed, the chairperson informs the member by letter on behalf of the council. Removal of a council member requires unanimous agreement of the other council members.

Immediate action will be taken to fill the empty seat on the council. In the case of a teacher, the first alternate will be notified of the vacancy. If elections are necessary, they will be conducted in a timely manner.

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V. Authority of the Council and the Principal

Authority of the council:The council pursuant to state law, is a policy making body (Reference KRS 160.345). The council shall have the authority to set and monitor school policies, which shall provide an environment to enhance the student’s achievement and help the schools meet the goals established by the Kentucky Education Reform Act.

Outside of a legally called council meeting no council member other than the principal has decision-making or administrative authority.

Authority of the Principal:The principal shall serve as the school’s primary administrator and instructional leader and shall have authority over management functions not chosen by the council.

The principal shall be responsible for:

Implementation of policies set by the council. Supervision of committees appointed by the council. Formation of committees in areas of management functions not chosen by the council.

VI. Appeal of Council Decisions

Eligibility:Any resident of the district, parent, student or employee of the school may make appeals of decisions passed by the council.

Basis:Appeals must be based on whether or not the council action was arbitrary, violated district policy, exceeded the authority of the council or was otherwise unlawful under state or federal law.

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Process:Prior to being appealed, the issue must first be presented in writing to the council for reconsideration. The Superintendent shall receive a copy of the written appeal that has been filed with the council. Issues for council consideration shall be delivered to the Principal who shall bring the matter before the council at its next meeting. If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved within ten (10) school days from the date the issue is presented to the council, the appeal may be submitted in writing to the Superintendent for consideration.

If, within ten (10) school days of receiving the appeal, the Superintendent has not been able to satisfactory resolve it, a further appeal may be made in writing to the board. The Board shall act on the appeal within (40) school days of the Board meeting when the appeal was made. The decision of the board shall be final.

VII. Selection of a Principal

Criteria:Once the superintendent has verified the vacancy, the council shall develop a set of criteria for selection of a principal and communicate in writing the criteria to the superintendent. The council shall get input from teachers, staff and parents into development of the criteria.

Plan:The council shall develop a written plan for selecting a principal and shall disseminate the plan to teachers and leaders of the parent organization. The plan shall include selection criteria and a time line.

Interview:The council shall be responsible for interviewing each candidate submitted by the superintendent and for reviewing all written information on each candidate provided by the superintendent.

Selection: The council shall select a principal from a slate of candidates provided by the superintendent. The council reserves the right to request additional candidates from the superintendent. The selection shall be communicated to the superintendent in writing. In the event additional candidates are requested by the council, a written explanation will be needed stating why previous candidates were unacceptable to the council.

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Curriculum

The SBDM council shall monitor curriculum. Committees shall be formed by content area for the purpose of reviewing the existing curriculum and rewriting curriculum to ensure that it is aligned with state standards. These committees shall represent each of the following curricular areas:

Math Science Social Studies English/Language Arts Arts and Humanities Practical Living/Vocational Studies Exceptional Children

Each committee shall be composed of the component lead, every teacher from that curricular area and at least two additional parent members. The principal shall ensure that all committee memberships are filled by the start of school. These committees will report directly to the principal or his designee.

Each committee shall elect a component lead. This person will report progress toward full alignment of curriculum with state standards. The component lead will report to the council at a regular called SBDM meeting at least once a semester. Upon conclusion of each report, the chair can make recommendations to the school council that they adopt any aligned curriculum that has been completed to that date. The school council will approve or deny this recommendation using the council's normal decision-making process.

Assignment of Staff Time

Once the superintendent has assigned personnel to the school, the principal shall prepare a school staff assignment plan for the following school year. This plan will be presented to the school council for consultation. A follow up plan that reflects amendments to the original plan shall be prepared by the principal and submitted to the school council before the opening of school.

All vacant positions, certified and classified, shall be posted on the bulletin board in the front office within one week of the vacancy being declared by the superintendent so that existing staff members shall be informed of this circumstance. Existing staff wishing to apply for these positions will follow the same interview process as any individual applying for a vacancy.

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School Schedule and Student Assignment

Advisory Teachers, working in collaboration with content teachers, students and parents, shall complete the preregistration process for current students for the following school year by May 31st. These preregistration numbers shall be presented to the principal who shall develop a school schedule that accommodates as many of the request as possible. Additions or amendments to student’s class assignments as prepared by the teachers shall be the authority of the principal or his designee.

Teachers and the principal shall use the following criteria when preparing assignments:

Graduation Requirements Academic performance of the student Learning style of the student Student behavior Instructional needs of the student Class size School schedule

Student schedules shall be presented at least five days prior to the start of school, usually during a welcome back to school event. Parents who wish to seek a change in the assignment of their child shall confer with the principal who shall have the authority to make the switch. NO SCHEDULE CHANGE WILL OCCUR AFTER TWO WEEKS FROM THE START OF SCHOOL UNLESS THERE ARE CIRCUMSTANCES THAT WOULD WARRANT SUCH A REQUEST. Changes at that time can only be made after the review and approval by a committee established to hear such request. The school council shall not have the authority to make a switch in student assignment.

The school schedule will be developed by the principal to meet the requirements and needs of the student body. The schedule will be developed by June 30th of each year and will be presented to the school council by the July meeting.

Teachers will be assigned according to their certification requirements and will have the opportunity to request any wishes they may have concerning their schedule at the end of the previous school year. The specific classes taught by each individual teacher shall be the sole authority of the principal or his designee.

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Use of School Space

By June 30th the principal shall prepare a school space plan and present the plan to the school council. The principal shall implement the plan subsequent to the presentation to the council.

The council does have the authority to make amendments to the above plan if they feel such an amendment is warranted. It shall be the responsibility of the principal to carry out any such amendment.

Instruction

Faculty, in collaboration with the principal, shall select the appropriate instructional practices to be utilized in their classroom to ensure that the school’s curriculum is fully implemented. The council shall approve these practices.

Units of StudyAll classes taught at Bell County High School will consist of Units of Study that reflect the Kentucky Common Core Standards. Each class will have a syllabus that identifies the units that make-up that particular course. Each unit will consist of carefully planned lessons that address the strategies listed under the classroom instruction section immediately following this paragraph. All lessons should have measurable objectives that are monitored by various assessment strategies.

The official unit plan format for our school will contain components of the house model for instruction. A lesson plan guide has also been developed for instructors to use as they plan their lessons. Every lesson plan will address each of the components that have been identified as required for a model lesson. (Example unit plan and lesson plans are located at end of this policy statement.)

Classroom InstructionOn a regular basis in each class, each teacher will:

Use varied student-centered instructional strategies. Use various reading strategies and writing strategies during instruction Address various learning styles and the multiple intelligences. Use activities where all students use higher-order thinking and problem-solving

skills. Assign tasks similar to those used for state and local assessments. (Students should

see authentic assessments consisting of multiple choice and open response questions.)

Provide opportunities for students to connect their learning to real-life experiences Adjust instruction to respond to the diversity of students in that class Use technology for appropriate and varied learning activities Use technology to expand the classroom into the community Use instructional resources that are developmentally appropriate to the students in

the class Use instructional resources that reflect appropriate diversity Use a variety of electronic and printed instructional resources Assign homework that extends student learning on class-time subjects

In preparing lesson plans, each teacher will clearly identify the examples of each kind of activity.

Professional Learning ClubsAt least one/50 minute period per week during each the semester, components will meet to:

Plan Do Study ACT

Teachers are participating in the PDSA PLC Protocol designed to improve student learning.

Principal’s RolesThe principal, or his/her designee, will:

Check for success in implementing this policy as part of regular classroom observation and evaluation of each teacher

Include areas needing added work under this policy in recommendations for individual teachers’ professional growth

Component Committee RolesEach of the six component committees will:

Maintain a checklist of teachers who have attended the meetings Report to the council twice a year on trends and needs emerging from the group

discussions concerning instructional activities If needed, make recommendation to amend the Comprehensive School

Improvement Plan to provide for additional professional development or other changes to address those trends and needs.

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Discipline and Classroom Management

The school shall consider discipline and classroom management as a means of causing acceptable behavior or as a means of changing unacceptable behavior. The school shall not consider discipline and classroom management as a means of punishment. The school council shall approve only those discipline and classroom management provisions that are consistent with this philosophy. Copies of the district code of acceptable student behavior and discipline shall be distributed to all staff and parents in a timely manner each year.

The faculty and principal shall implement the district code of acceptable student behavior and discipline. The school principal along with his/her staff and any faculty member interested shall review the district code of acceptable student behavior and discipline on a yearly basis, and shall recommend to the council for approval any additional discipline and classroom management measures deemed necessary. Additional recommendations relative to discipline and classroom management shall be consistent with the district code of acceptable student behavior, and with state and federal statutes and regulations.

See attached policies: Student Handbook.

Extracurricular Programs

By the beginning of each school year, a list of extracurricular programs to be implemented in the school will be presented for the council's approval. Additional extracurricular programs to be implemented shall be presented by the principal to the council for approval prior to their implementation.

The school council shall determine student participation standards, to be consistent with any criteria set by the state or national sponsor of the program, and consistent with state and federal statutes and regulations.

SBDM POLICY MANUAL



Program Appraisal

The school shall organize all instructional programs and other activity to be aligned with state standards established in state laws and regulations, and in a manner that is consistent with local school board policy. Each of the component committees, on a quarterly basis, shall provide a report to the school council that shall include, but not be limited to:

Alignment of the school curriculum with state standards Alignment of the school's instructional practices with state recommendations Status of student performance as measured by the state assessment process Alignment with the Standards and Indicators for School Improvement Implementation and impact of the current consolidated plan State of technology utilization Appraisal of selected school programs upon the direction of the council

These component committees shall make recommendations relative to the items listed above at the time the report is presented to the council; any changes are subject to council action.

Consultation

The Principal shall inform the superintendent of any resignation of school employee assigned to his/her school. A vacancy shall have occurred when posted with the Department of Education by the superintendent for certified positions or by timely notification by the superintendent for classified vacancies.

Once a position has been identified as vacant, either by resignation or by the establishment of a new position, the principal shall develop a set of selection criteria with input from the council and teaching team where the vacancy exists. The superintendent shall provide a slate of candidates for each position.

In most cases the council will conduct the interview, but in some instances a selection committee can be established. This committee will consist of the principal, at least one teacher and one parent member of the council, and other representatives of the school staff that have expertise in that particular area. In all cases, this committee will present their final recommendations to the full council. The council or selection committee shall convene, determine which qualified applicants shall be interviewed, conduct the interview process, discuss, and reach either by consensus or a majority vote on a recommendation of priority order for selection of a candidate to fill the vacancy.

After listening to the recommendation of the council, the principal will have the sole authority for making the final choice for filling the vacancy. The principal shall immediately report his decision to the superintendent in writing.

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Committee Structure

Committees:A. Besides the six component committees made up of teachers from each department, the

school council shall establish six additional standing committees:

Curriculum and Instruction (Component Leads) Organizational Structure and Resources Public Relations School Culture and Professional Growth Efficiency (Administrative Staff & SBDM members) Tech Prep and HSTW Governance

B. All teachers and any other interested persons shall be assigned membership to one of these standing committees.

C. The principal, by May 1st of each year, shall post a list of standing committees in the office. The principal shall contact teachers and parents inviting them to volunteer for appointment to the standing committees for the following fiscal year. Persons may volunteer for specific committee appointment by signing the appropriate list posted in the office, or by contacting the school secretary to request appointment to a committee.

D. The principal shall present unaltered committee sign-up sheets to the school council by no later than September 15th, and the school council shall approve committee membership by no later than October 1. The school council shall attempt to assign all parents and teachers to committees they request, but the council reserves the right to approve all final assignments. Assignments will be posted in the school office by no later than 48 hours subsequent to the council approval of the final assignments.

E. All standing committee will have no less than six members. Each committee shall have at least one parent member. The principal shall be assigned as a member of all committees for which he/she volunteers.

F. Each committee shall assemble no later than September 15th to elect a chairperson and establish their regular meeting date (At least semi-annually). The meeting date will be reported to the principal by the chair within 48 hours of the initial assembly so that the principal may compile a report of all regular meeting dates and report this schedule of meeting dates to the superintendent, faculty, parents, and local media requesting this notification. The schedule of meeting dates will be posted in the school in a conspicuous place by October 1.

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Committee Structure(Continued)

G. All standing committee will establish its schedule of meetings, date of meeting and agenda.

H. The school council may establish ad hoc committees to accept specific assignments. Ad hoc committee formation shall be subject to the requirements listed in paragraphs D, E, and G of this policy. All other requirements for an ad hoc committee shall be established in the jurisdiction statement specifically created by the council for the ad hoc committee upon its creation.

I. Jurisdiction for the standing committees shall be as follows:

Curriculum and Instruction: Standards 1 – 3 (Component Leads) Assess the status of the school's curriculum and instruction, research and discuss appropriate curriculum and instruction issues, make recommendations for consideration to the school council on issues related to curriculum and instruction, complete assignments from the council related to curriculum and instruction.

Organizational Structure and Resources: Standard 8 Will address issues regarding the organization of the school. These duties will include such issues as staff assignment and time, school schedules and course offerings and any additional assignments from the council. This committee will be responsible for the development of a budget, that includes all funds allocated to the school council, and make a recommendation to the school council to fund priorities of the council as listed in the school improvement plan, include in the budget a recommendation for expenditures for purchasing instructional materials and supplies.

Public Relations and Parent Involvement: Standard 5Provide positive glimpses of school programs for the community in order to promote an improved reputation for our school. This committee will insure that at least one article is submitted from each component for print in the local newspapers each semester. This committee will also elicit parent involvement within the school and work to improve the percentage of parents attending school functions.

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School Culture and Professional Growth: Standards 4 & 6Will examine different issues that affect the overall culture of the school. Topics for discussion will include safe and orderly environment, student activities, equity and diversity, reducing school environmental barriers, and any other additional assignments from the council. The committee also will assist the principal in implementation of the professional development included in the school improvement plan; review for approval any professional development budget requests from staff beyond that which is included in the school improvement plan.

Efficiency: Standards 7 – 9 (Administrative Staff and SBDM Members):Committee work will focus on support for teaching and learning, organizational direction, high performance expectations, learning culture and developing leadership capacity. This committee will also look at ways to maximize time, space and resources. One of the major charges of this group will be the developing and monitoring the school Improvement plan (CSIP).

Career and Technical Education: Standard 1 & 2This committee will explore different avenues to make sure that the tech prep program is implemented to its fullest potential. Focus will be placed on the curriculum and types of instruction students receive in the classroom. This group will also work to see that career planning is a major focus within the school and develop an advisory program that enhances the student’s ability to achieve at high levels. This group will also look at the curriculum being delivered in Career and Technical Education classes to make sure that it is aligned with state standards and supports instruction being assessed with the KCCT.

Governance Committee: Standard 7Review and recommend to the council amendments to the bylaws, review each proposed policy prior to its final reading to determine if the policy is consistent with bylaws, existing policies, and the school improvement plan and make a recommendation to the council relative to this, complete additional assignments from the council. This committee will also make sure that the council will adhere to the timelines set in the SBDM Policies.

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Freshman Transition: Standard 4, 5 and 6This committee is designed to provide a resource of administrative direction, student support, transition strategies and general academy governance. The committee will also evaluate and analyze data to effectively revise and develop curriculum for greater student achievement. Strategies will be created to proactively deal with transition issues, discipline and transition improvement.

School Based Decision Making

LEGALLY REQUIRED POLICIES - #1000

SBDM POLICY MANUAL

SBDM Legally Required Policy Index - #1000

POLICY # SUBJECT OF THE POLICY ADOPTED REVISEDSBDM Legally Required Policies - #1000 DATE DATE

1001 Alignment With State Standards

1002 Assignment of Students to Advanced Placement Courses

1003 Assignment of Instructional Staff to Advanced Placement Courses

1004 Committee Structure Policy

1005 Consultation for Hiring Other Than the Principal

1006 Curriculum

1007 Discipline

1008 Emergency Plan 11/11/13 6/8/15

1009 Enhancing Student Achievement

1010 Extracurricular Programs

1011 Instructional Practices

1012 Program Appraisal1013 Parental Involvement (Title 1)1014 School Schedule

1015 School Space

1016 Assignment of Instructional and Non‐Instructional Staff Time

1017 Assignment of Students to Classes and Programs Within the School

1018 Technology Use

1020 Wellness - Elementary1022 Writing

SBDM POLICY MANUAL

SBDM Legally Required Policies

Policy - # 1001

SCHOOL: Bell County High School

SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Alignment with State Standards

POLICY STATEMENT: Under the direction of the Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) (including the administrative staff) at Bell County High School, the planning process will ensure:

Sustained analysis of whether each of the programs is contributing adequately to helping all students meet state standards by reviewing the Unbridled Learning: College/Career Readiness for All Accountability System results and other formative assessment results.

Systematic work to improve those programs in order to meet state standards for all students within the timetable set by the Kentucky Board of Education.

Ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the implementation and impact of the programs.

That continual improvements and revisions are made to program strategies based on the regular monitoring and evaluation of their effectiveness.

This process will be implemented and reviewed to reflect alignment of state standards through needs assessment and progress notes on ASSIST.

Date Adopted:

Date Reviewed/Revised:

Signature: (SBDM Council Chairperson)

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Policy - #1002


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Assignment of Students to Advanced Placement Courses

POLICY STATEMENT: STUDENT ASSIGNMENT AND RECRUITMENTWe will encourage all students to prepare for and take one or more college-level courses. We will do that in the following ways:

Counselors will advise students and parents of these options when they prepare and revise their ILP and encourage each student to take appropriate preparatory courses.

Teachers will encourage all students to take challenging courses each term.

In September and January, the principal will report to the council on enrollment in these courses by total numbers, gender, ethnicity, participation in the free and reduced lunch program, and disability status.

Based on that data, the council may amend its Comprehensive School Improvement Plan to add additional steps to ensure equitable participation in future terms.

All students may take our college-level courses if they have the skills they need to be ready for that work. They may establish that they have that level of skill by any one of the following means:

Completing prerequisite courses listed in the Student Handbook.

Taking and passing the examinations for those prerequisite courses.

Receiving permission of the teacher.

If necessary an application process can be put into effect to ensure placement of all students. Applications will be reviewed by the Principal and content teacher for qualifications for the course.

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Policy - #1003


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Assignment of Instructional Staff to Advanced Placement Courses

POLICY STATEMENT: The language below, if enacted and implemented, will comply with the new requirements for Advanced Placement or other college-level courses. Senate Bill 74 created those requirements, which are now listed in KRS 160.348 and 704 KAR 3:510.

CURRICULUM AND AVAILABILITYEach year, we will offer our students college-level courses in at least two of the following 6 areas:

English Science Mathematics

Social studies Foreign language The Arts

Those courses will be offered as Advanced Placement or Dual Credit classes at our school, through the Kentucky Virtual High School, or through arrangements with nearby colleges or universities.

If the course is designated as an Advanced Placement course, it must: Be identified as an advanced placement course by the College Board.

Include the content as described in the College Board overview, description, and recommended course syllabus for the appropriate course.

Be aligned with Kentucky’s educational standards.

Prepare a student to take and be successful on the appropriate advanced placement examination administered by the College Board.

Be taught by staff with appropriate content certification and professional development preparation to teach the advanced placement course.

Date Adopted:



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Policy - #1004


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Committee Structure Policy

POLICY STATEMENT: The SBDM Council at Bell County High School will use standing committees to encourage expanded participation in the decision-making process. At times, the Council may form ad hoc committees for specific purposes. Standing SBDM committees are to be aligned with the Standards and Indicators in School Improvement (CSIP) document and District Best Practices. The following standing committees have been established along with areas of responsibility:

Instructional Leadership Team• Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP)• Implementation and Impact Checks• Professional Development (PD)• Assessment Timeline/Plan

Academic Performance• Extended School Services (ESS) Planning and Development• Talent Pool Criteria• Writing Timeline• Math• Technology• Literacy System/Reading• Academic Content Areas

Learning Environment• Cultural Health Awareness• Parent Involvement• Attendance• Student Support Team• Charitable Campaigns• Fundraisers• Student Council• Student Recognition• Behavior Management

Efficiency• Budget• Scheduling• Textbooks• School Resources

(Continued on the next page)

Date Adopted:



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Policy - #1004

(Continued from the previous page)

SBDM-Assigned Committee Process

Standing and ad hoc committees are formed and dissolved by the Council as needed. The Council will determine the necessary standing committees and responsibilities of these committees each year at its first meeting (July).

Committee membership will be obtained through a signup of volunteers. The Council will review to determine if additional representation is needed and/or to approve this list by August 31 of the calendar year. Once approved, committee volunteers will be notified of their first meeting by the principal.

Each committee shall elect a chairperson by majority vote at its first meeting. The term of the chairperson will be one year, and the chairperson may be reelected.

Each committee shall determine the frequency and agenda of meetings. Written minutes of each committee meeting will be kept as an open, permanent record of the activities of each assigned committee. These minutes will be forwarded to the Council and will become a part of the required documentation of the Council adhering to KY Open Record laws.

Committees have the responsibility to carry out tasks assigned to them by the Council. Committees may research issues, gather school-wide input, or prepare drafts for the Council.

Decisions of the Council-assigned committees shall be made by consensus. In the event consensus cannot be reached, a majority vote will be used to decide the issue.

The committee chairperson/designee must report (both orally and in writing) to the Council as requested by the Council.

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Policy - #1005


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Consultation for Hiring Other Than the Principal

POLICY STATEMENT: The Principal shall inform the superintendent of any resignation of school employee assigned to his/her school. A vacancy shall have occurred when posted with the Department of Education by the superintendent for certified positions or by timely notification by the superintendent for classified vacancies.Once a position has been identified as vacant, either by resignation or by the establishment of a new position, the principal shall develop a set of selection criteria with input from the council and teaching team where the vacancy exists. The superintendent shall provide a slate of candidates for each position.

In most cases the council will conduct the interview, but in some instances a selection committee may be formed consisting of a teacher and one parent member of the council and other representatives of the school staff that have expertise in that particular area. In all cases, this committee will present their final recommendations to the full council. The council or selection committee shall convene, determine which qualified applicants shall be interviewed, conduct the interview process, discuss, and reach either by consensus or a majority vote on a recommendation of priority order for selection of a candidate to fill the vacancy.

After listening to the recommendation of the council, the principal will have the sole authority for making the final choice for filling the vacancy. The principal shall immediately report his decision to the superintendent in writing.

The definition of quorum, during the summer months (when school is not in session) for the purpose of consultation in the hiring of personnel other than the principal, shall be: After prior verbal and written notification of the special meeting (at least 24 hours prior to the meeting) to all SBDM Council members, those who are in attendance shall constitute a quorum.

Date Adopted:



Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1006


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Curriculum

POLICY STATEMENT: A Curriculum Committee shall be formed and be responsible for assessing, designing, monitoring, and evaluating the curriculum. The committee shall help ensure that the curriculum at Bell County High School meets both state and local school board goals as described in the Kentucky Education Reform Act (KERA) and that technology is appropriately infused into the curriculum. The Curriculum Committee shall make a monthly report to the SBDM Council regarding the status of the implementation of the Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) and other initiatives related to the curriculum.

The Curriculum Committee shall develop or update the CSIP to improve the curriculum. Priorities for the plan shall be supported by the results of various assessments. The plan may cover a period of more than one year and shall include items as required in the CSIP process.

The Curriculum Committee shall ensure that the plan is communicated to teachers and that a summary of the highlights of the plan is provided to parents. The Curriculum Committee shall be responsible for reviewing new assessment data and recommending revisions to the CSIP.

The SBDM Council shall adopt the curriculum of the Bell County Board of Education as the curriculum that shall be implemented at the school. This curriculum is aligned with state standards and is appropriate for our instructional needs. Subsequent amendments to the curriculum by the Bell County Board of Education shall become effective immediately, upon approval by the board.

SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1007


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Discipline

POLICY STATEMENT: The SBDM Council, when implementing discipline and classroom-management techniques, shall adhere to the rights and responsibilities of students as found in the Bell County High School Code of Acceptable Behavior and Discipline, the Student Bill of Rights, and in the School Safety Plan. The purpose of these documents is to provide students with a safe, secure, and positive learning environment.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1008


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Adoption of Emergency Policy

POLICY STATEMENT: Each year the Bell County Board of Education adopts the District Code of Conduct Parent and Student Handbook with an individual school supplement. After the Board of Education adopts this plan, all SBDM Councils must adopt their specific Safe Crisis Plan from this document.

Date Adopted:



Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1009


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Enhancing Student Achievement

POLICY STATEMENT: SBDM Councils promote shared leadership among those who are closest to students. Council members include parents, teachers, and administrators of the local school. The SBDM Council at Bell County High School then has the responsibility through KRS 160.345 2(c)(1) to set school policy consistent with Bell County Board of Education policy, which shall provide an environment to enhance the students’ achievement and help the school meet the goals established by KRS 158.645 and 158.6451.

SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1010


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Extracurricular Programs

POLICY STATEMENT: Extracurricular programs shall be selected based on the following criteria:

The program complements the academic achievement of students.

The program encourages students to develop self-confidence, self-esteem, and leadership skills.

The program provides opportunities for students to participate in activities that encourage physical fitness, visual and performing arts, cooperation, and team building with adults and peers.

The program provides the opportunity for students to interact socially in a positive manner with students within our school, other schools, and other districts.

The program follows the participation guidelines as specified by the Bell County High School Activities/Athletics rules and regulations.

Date Adopted:



Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1011


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Instructional Practices

POLICY STATEMENT: The Instructional Staff at Bell County High School shall consistently use instructional practices (methods and techniques used in the delivery of the curriculum) that are tailored to meet the unique instructional needs of all students at Bell County High School. The principal, Instructional Leadership Team (ILT), and/or Curriculum Committee shall recommend to the SBDM Council instructional design and implementation practices that are based on state and district curriculum standards and that are consistent with Bell County High School teaching competencies and core practices for a great classroom. These practices should:

Be inquiry-based. Require critical thinking. Involve differentiated instruction. Be data-based. Focus on conceptual development. Provide students with authentic and challenging tasks. Require problem solving. Promote collaboration and social competence. Be caring and culturally responsive. Promote civic engagement.

The SBDM Council shall be responsible for reviewing recommendations for school-wide instructional practices and determining if the recommendations will enhance student achievement. The SBDM Council shall provide final approval of the recommended instructional practices and shall regularly review and/or update this Instructional Practices policy based on the emerging needs of the school.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1011a


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Instructional Practices

POLICY STATEMENT: Our school schedule will provide the required hours of instructional time or more, and students will be actively involved in learning throughout those instructional hours.To ensure this:

Broadcast interruptions from the school office will be limited the end of the day and emergencies. Wherever possible, e-mail, telephone, quiet messengers, or waiting until class is done will be used instead.

Students arriving in each classroom will immediately have work to begin, without waiting for other students to assemble.

When a scheduled activity is unexpectedly delayed or canceled, students will be given alternative, substantive learning activities to undertake.

Activities that reward or punish student behavior will not be conducted during instructional time unless those activities are strongly supported by the curriculum and instructional policies established by the Council.

Videotapes and television broadcasts will be used only when they efficiently convey knowledge and skills called for in the curriculum and are integrated into other activities that require the students to process and apply the information the video provides.

Our School Safety Plan, Discipline, and Classroom Management policies will also contribute to ensuring that behavioral problems do not detract from learning time.

The Principal/Assistant Principal/Dean of Students will: Ensure that each new staff member learns about these requirements. Check for success in implementing this policy as part of regular classroom

observation and evaluation of each teacher. Include areas requiring additional work under this policy in recommendations

for individual teachers’ professional growth.

We will review the implementation and impact of this policy through our School Improvement Planning process.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1012


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Program Appraisal

POLICY STATEMENT: Under the direction of the Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) (including the administrative staff) at Bell County High School, the planning process will ensure:

Sustained analysis of whether each of the programs is contributing adequately to helping all students meet state standards by reviewing Unbridled Learning: College/Career Readiness for All Accountability System results and other formative assessment results.

Systematic work to improve those programs in order to meet state standards for all students within the timetable set by the Kentucky Board of Education.

Ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the implementation and impact of programs.

That continual improvements and revisions are made to program strategies based on the regular monitoring and evaluation of their effectiveness.

This process will be implemented and reviewed to reflect alignment of state standards through needs assessment and Implementation and Impact Checks.

SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1013

SCHOOL:Bell County High School

SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Parent Involvement (Title I)

POLICY STATEMENT: We believe that parents/guardians are an integral and critical partner in the educational process. To promote the involvement of parents in their child’s education, school staff will provide parents with timely information about school programs and activities, will be available to meet with parents to discuss their child’s progress and concerns, and will provide ways for parents to be involved in the school. Parents/Guardians have the right and responsibility to communicate with staff concerning their child’s progress, to access their child’s permanent records, to support and encourage their child’s school achievement and attendance, and to meet all requirements for entry into school.

Parents/Guardians are encouraged to be involved in the school through Parent Teacher Association (PTA) membership; attending Open House, orientation, and school programs and activities; volunteering their time; chaperoning field trips as needed; and serving on the Family Resource Center (FRC) Advisory Council and the SBDM Council. Parents represent the parent/guardian component on the Council. Parents/Guardians will receive communication from the school through newsletters, letters, and notes sent home; telephone calls; and other appropriate means. In addition, individual teachers may establish other mechanisms to communicate with parents/guardians.

Parents/ Guardians are asked to follow all school and district policies regarding visitors to the school and volunteering in the school.

Parents/Guardians will be notified of the school’s Title I Program at the annual orientation and Open House. During that meeting, a parent will be selected to represent the school at the District Parent Advisory Council monthly meetings. Additional parent/ guardian and PTA meetings may be held throughout the school year. Parents/Guardians will receive notification of these meetings through fliers sent home with the students.

To keep parents apprised of student progress, students will take home interim reports and the more comprehensive report cards as determined by the district. Additional information may be shared as deemed appropriate by the teacher or other staff.

A school-parent compact has been developed, which states how the school, family, and student will work together to promote high achievement and success.

An annual school report will be developed by school staff and sent to the parents/ guardians. This report informs parents/guardians regarding the progress of the school in a variety of areas as mandated by state regulations.

Date Adopted:



Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1014


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: School Schedule

POLICY STATEMENT: Prior to the start of the new school year, the administrative staff will develop the master schedule for the school based on the needs of the students and instructional programs within the school. The number of classes, rotation of classes, coordination of a lunch schedule, and provision of equitable planning time for all teachers shall be factors in developing the schedule.The principal or designee will complete the schedule my May 30 of each year and present it to the SBDM Council for approval. The principal may change the schedule if the needs of the school change (e.g. enrollment or addition of special programs).The master schedule will provide:

Equitable instructional time for all students to meet established content standards and to have enrichment and/or remediation opportunities.

Opportunities for all Certified Teachers to have the minimal contracted planning time of 50 minutes daily and a daily, duty-free lunch of 22 minutes including passing time.

Opportunities for staff teams to meet at least twice monthly for common planning, review of student work, and professional development (PD).

Opportunities for in-house and/or district resource teachers to work with teachers during the school day.

SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1015


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: School Space

POLICY STATEMENT: The principal will have the responsibility of assigning school space during the school day based on the following criteria:

Class size Program need Accessibility for students Appropriate supervision of students Safety Close proximity of instructional teaching teams Overall effective school management

The principal will inform the faculty and staff in writing of space assignment for the next school year by May 30. Changes in space assignment will only be made after May 30 due to an increase/decrease in a class/program or the addition or abolishment of a class/program. If a change is necessary, the principal will notify those affected as soon as possible both orally and in writing to explain the necessity of the change.

Date Adopted:



Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1016


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Assignment of Instructional and Non-Instructional Staff Time

POLICY STATEMENT: In January of each year, teachers will be surveyed by the administrative staff to determine their interest in teaching assignments and teams. By June 1 of each year, the principal shall prepare an instructional and non-instructional staff assignment plan for the following school year. Staff assignments shall follow the Bell County Board of Education policies and all negotiated contracts. All staff members will be notified in writing of intended assignments by June 1 of each year. Intended assignments may be modified as needed based on:

Changes in student enrollment. Programmatic needs. Changes in enrollment to a particular class or course requiring the

abolishment of that class or course.

Extra-duty assignments will be made by the principal on a rotating basis and distributed equally, based on the needs of the building. All certified staff will supervise hallways between classes and before and after school as students are entering or leaving the instructional classroom each day.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1017


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Assignment of Students to Classes and Programs within the School

POLICY STATEMENT: Students will be assigned to (scheduled in) classes by the appropriate counselor for each level. To determine student assignment for the following school year, counselors will complete a draft schedule to be submitted to the principal for final approval by July 15 of each year. The following steps will be used to determine student assignment:

Review curriculum changes as specified by the Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) due by December 20 each year (April 1).

Obtain and review student interest and need (April 1).

Develop a master schedule (May 30).

Develop individual student schedules (July 30).

When developing student schedules, consideration must be given to transcript review, needs of students, available subjects, class size, postsecondary preparation, and class size caps (adhering to state guidelines).

Consideration can also be given to creating a class that generally reflects the diversity of the students in the school as a whole, taking into account the residential addresses and the sexes of the students in the class as a whole (if all other considerations listed above have been met).

Students will receive their schedules during the Fall Open House.

Students entering school after the initial scheduling will be assigned to classes according to items 5 and 6 above. Final approval will be given by the principal/designee.

In assigning students in accordance with the above considerations, no student shall be assigned to a class or program solely on the basis of his or her race, color, national origin, sex, religious beliefs, or any other legally protectable category.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1018


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Technology Use

POLICY STATEMENT: Technology use in the twenty-first century has become a vital component of all aspects of life. For students to be contributing citizens, they must receive an education that incorporates technology into all aspects of learning. Bell County High School will provide students with technology skills instruction and opportunities to apply the skills to their work in core content subjects.

Bell County High School will develop technology pieces consisting of two student work samples included in the Writing Program Review Portfolio that demonstrate the integration of technology into core content learning. We will submit this portfolio to Computer Education Support (CES), which will review the documentation and provide feedback to help improve our use of technology.

All teachers at Bell County High School will implement technology as defined by the Bell County High School Code of Conduct. Teachers will:

Use appropriate technology to design and plan instruction. Use available technology to implement instruction that facilitates student learning. Integrate student use of available technology into instruction. Use available technology to assess and communicate student learning. Demonstrate ethical and legal use of technology.

Our Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) process will include: An analysis of our BCSD technology assessment data, digital technology

portfolio review, and other school data as necessary to discover the extent to which our students are meeting state standards.

Systematic work to discover and correct the causes of barriers to high performance and the extent to which technology use is a factor.

A revision of our CSIP based on our needs assessment data for that year. The plan will set goals and address contributing technology issues and

methods to improve technology use and to help students meet state standards according to the timetable established by the Kentucky Board of Education.

We will implement this process to address technology use and barriers, and the resulting plan will be monitored by the Council through ongoing Implementation and Impact Checks.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1020


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Wellness and Nutrition

POLICY STATEMENT: The health and safety of pupils shall be a priority consideration in all school decisions. The council is committed to providing a school environment that promotes and protects student health, well-being, and ability to learn by supporting healthy eating and physical activity. To this end, the council supports efforts to implement the following:

The school will engage students, parents, teachers, food service professionals, health professionals, and other interested community members in developing, implementing, monitoring, and reviewing this policy, as well as adhering to District-wide nutrition and physical activity opportunities, plans, and initiatives.

All students will have opportunities, support, and encouragement to be physically active on a regular basis.

Foods and beverages sold or served at school will meet the nutrition recommendations of the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Qualified child nutrition professionals will provide students with access to a variety of affordable, nutritious, and appealing foods that meet the health and nutrition needs of students; will accommodate the religious, ethnic, and cultural diversity of the student body in meal planning; and will provide clean, safe, and pleasant settings and adequate time for students to eat.

To the maximum extent practicable, the school will participate in available federal school meal programs.

Bell County High School will provide nutrition education and physical education to foster lifelong habits of healthy eating and physical activity and will establish linkages between health education, school meal programs, and related community services.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1022


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Writing

POLICY STATEMENT: STUDENTS’ WRITING EXPERIENCESIn order to provide multiple opportunities to develop complex communication skills for

a variety of purposes and use a variety of language resources, we will make sure students: Engage in three categories of writing: writing to learn, writing to demonstrate

learning to the teacher, and writing for publication. Experience authentic, meaningful writing at all grade levels: Writing for a variety of purposes: Argumentative writing to support claims. Informative/explanatory texts. Narrative to develop real or imagined experiences or events. Writing for a variety of audiences. Experience that reveal ownership and independent thinking. Writing in which students draw on their own experiences, learning, reading, and

inquiry to complete writing tasks. Experience the writing process at all grade levels: planning, drafting, revising,

editing, publishing, and reflecting upon writing. Experience writing in both on-demand and writing over time situations at the 9th,

10th, and 11th grade. Write as a natural outcome of the content being studied in all curriculum areas. Read and analyze a variety of print and non-print materials (e.g., artwork (2D

and 3D), photographs, electronic text, graphics, illustrations, web images, maps, multimedia) including persuasive, literary, informational, and practical/workplace materials. Use readings as models for student writing>

Learn about and use appropriate resources for writing (e.g., personal interviews, observations, print materials, and technology) driven by different instructional purposes with different audiences for the student to consider.

Apply appropriate writing skills for oral communication. Engage in real world and creative communication appropriate for meeting

Kentucky Academic Standards.

INSTRUCTIONAL WRITING STRATEGIES GUIDLEINESTo provide multiple opportunities for students to develop complex communication skills

for a variety of purposes, teacher will: Teach higher-order thinking skills. Assign three categories of writing: writing to learn, writing to demonstrate

learning to the teacher, and writing for publication. Provide authentic, meaningful writing at all grade levels: Writing for a variety of purposes: Argumentative writing to support claims. Informative/explanatory texts.

SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1022




Narrative to develop real or imagined experiences of events. Writing for a variety of audiences. Writing about experiences that reveal ownership and independent thinking. Writing in which students draw on their own experiences, learning, reading, and

inquiry to complete writing tasks. Teach the writing process at all grade levels: planning, drafting, revising,

editing, publishing, and reflecting upon writing, Provide both on-demand and writing over time assignments. Incorporate writing as a natural outcome of the content being studied in all

curriculum areas. Assign student to read and analyze a variety of print and non-print materials

(e.g., artwork (2D and 3D), photographs, electronic text, graphics, illustrations, web images, maps, multimedia) including persuasive, literary, informational, and practical/workplace materials. Use reading as models for student writing.

Provide appropriate resources for writing (e.g., personal interviews, observations, print materials, and technology) driven by different instructional purposes with different audiences for the student to consider.

Allow student choice and exploration. Provide experiences for students to apply appropriate writing skills for oral

communication skills. Provide real world and creative communication experiences appropriate for

meeting Kentucky Academic Standards.


SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #1022




SCHOOL-WIDE STRUCTURES AND MONITORINGTo ensure every student has a writing communication folder that includes samples of

work that shows interests and growth over time, follows the student from grade to grade, and follows the student to any school he/she attends, the principal will:

Ensure curriculum is aligned to the Kentucky Academic Standards. Assign Writing Program Review teams to develop a written plan for

implementing and monitoring communication folders. Ensure the plan includes guidelines for incorporating student and teacher use of

technology tools. Ensure the implementation of the writing plan. Ensure that the council annually reviews, revises (if necessary), and approves

the writing plan annually. Ensure teachers receive embedded professional development needed to improve

writing instruction.

REFLECTION, ASSESSMENT, AND FEEDBACKTo ensure the writing process includes reflection, assessment, and feedback, the writing plan will incorporate:

Active participation of students in decision making about contents of the communication folder.

The use of the communication folder for determining student performance in communication.

The procedures for reviewing the communication folder in order to determine strengths and weaknesses in student writing and the overall writing program.

The procedures for grading the communication folder including feedback to inform instruction.

Guidelines for providing students descriptive feedback on the communication folder.

Opportunities for student to improve their writing and communication skills based on communication folder feedback.

Date Adopted:



School Based Decision Making

Best Practice Policies - #2000

SBDM POLICY MANUAL

SBDM Best Practice Policy Index - #2000

POLICY # POLICY ADOPTED REVISEDSBDM Best Practice Policies - #2000 DATE DATE

2001 Budget

2002 Selection of Instructional Materials2003 Professional Development

2004 Classroom Assessment2005 Equity and Diversity

2006 Homework

2007 Improvement Planning

2009 Primary Program2010 Principal Selection

2011 Protection of Instructional Time2012 Student and Family Support Services

2013 Dress Code

2014 Cell Phone

2015 Work Release

SBDM POLICY MANUAL

SBDM Best Practice Policies

Policy - #2001


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Budget

POLICY STATEMENT: The school budget shall consist of funds appropriated to the school for a period beginning July 1 and ending June 30 of the next year. The initial budget of the new year must be approved by the SBDM Council no later than March 15 of the preceding year. Any adjustments based on allocation changes after the opening of school must be approved by the SBDM Council no later than September 15 of the new year.

A standing committee shall be formed to develop a budget for the school and to complete bimonthly financial reports to the SBDM Council. This committee will be called the Budget Committee.

The Budget Committee will use the budget instructions and recommendations as provided by the Financial Planning and Management Department. Timelines will adhere to those required by the Financial Planning and Management Department. The Budget Committee shall develop a draft budget and shall conduct a meeting on the budget before it is recommended to the SBDM Council. All members of the school’s faculty and staff and the Executive Board of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) shall be informed of the meeting at least five school days in advance. A copy of the draft shall be made available upon request to any interested person. The chairperson of the Budget Committee shall preside over this meeting. Following the meeting, the Budget Committee shall recommend a budget to the SBDM Council. The SBDM Council has the responsibility of reviewing, accepting, amending, or rejecting this budget as necessary. The SBDM Council must approve the budget for the school.

The SBDM Council shall be responsible for monitoring the budget. The Budget Committee shall be responsible for reporting the status of the budget to the SBDM Council during the regularly scheduled meetings of even months (e.g., February—month two, April—month four). The principal may shift funds along line items during the fiscal year, but the budget must balance at all times. All changes for staffing levels must be approved by the SBDM Council prior to implementation.

A copy of the audit report shall be shared with the SBDM Council at the meeting after it is received.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2001a


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Budget

POLICY STATEMENT: The allocations for the upcoming school year shall be provided to the SBDM Council and Budget Committee within two weeks of receiving these allocations from the Financial Planning and Management Department. The Budget Committee shall develop a budget to be presented to the SBDM Council at the Council’s regularly scheduled March meeting. The Budget Committee will consider the following when developing the budget recommendation for SBDM Council consideration: the needs as identified in the Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP), the number of staff needed to meet contractual obligations and class size caps, the classroom and operational needs of the school, suggestions taken from the faculty and staff, and other requests.

The SBDM Council has the responsibility to review this budget, accept it, amend it, or reject it with recommendations to the Budget Committee. The SBDM Council must make final approval of the budget, and this action must be reflected in the minutes of the SBDM Council.

During the year, the principal may make line-item changes in the budget up to $500. If the amount exceeds $500, the SBDM Council will meet and approve it before action is taken. If changes are made, the principal must report these changes to the Budget Committee and SBDM Council at their regularly scheduled meetings so that adjustments can be made to future budget allocations if needed. The Budget Committee must report quarterly to the SBDM Council regarding the status of the budget.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2002


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Selection of Instructional Materials

POLICY STATEMENT: The SBDM Council, when selecting instructional materials, shall adhere to the procedures outlined in the Bell County High School Selection of Instructional Materials (Including Reevaluation/Reconsideration Process) document. The purpose of this document is to determine which textbooks, instructional materials, and student support services shall be provided in the school (per KRS 160.345).

The Efficiency Committee will make a recommendation to the SBDM Council as to which instructional materials should be purchased. The recommendation shall be in compliance with “Section IV: Criteria for Selection of Materials” as outlined in the Selection of Instructional Materials (Including Reevaluation/Reconsideration Process) document.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2003


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Professional Development

POLICY STATEMENT: The Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) and the principal shall ensure that the professional growth and development needs of staff are included in the needs assessment portion of the planning process. Additionally, the ILT and principal shall ensure that the appropriate objectives and strategies are included in the Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) to provide for these needs for the coming school year due in December of each year. Finally, the professional-development (PD) map should be modified based on student data/performance, staff reflections, and myriad evaluative tools.

Approval of the CSIP will also constitute approval of the school PD offerings for the upcoming year. PD that is not included in the CSIP requires principal approval and must address a need that is included in the individual’s evaluation and professional growth plan.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2004


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Classroom Assessment

POLICY STATEMENT: The Bell County High School Instructional Leadership Teams (ILT) shall establish and maintain a balanced, comprehensive school assessment system that effectively uses multiple formative (assessment for learning) and summative (assessment of learning) student assessments to continuously inform teaching and improve learning for every student. Assessments shall be aligned with state and district curriculum standards and have clearly defined learning targets and learning progressions for each instructional unit. Teachers shall collaboratively design and use assessments to demonstrate mastery of key concepts and skills, to track and communicate student progress, and to provide students additional learning opportunities toward mastery and proficiency.

Students shall be routinely engaged in monitoring their own progress and using descriptive feedback to adjust their own learning.

The principal and ILT shall recommend to the SBDM Council ongoing professional learning development (PD) to increase assessment literacy of all instructional staff. Teachers at Bell County High School shall administer school-wide assessments according to the recommended assessment calendar (to be modified each year in accordance with District and State expectations). Required documentation of performance shall be based on multiple assessments of student learning as outlined in the Bell County High School Student Progression, Promotion, and Grading handbook.

Bell County High School assessment practices shall also be consistent with Standard 2 of Kentucky’s Standards and Indicators for School Improvement (SISI) and the Kentucky Core Academic Standards (KCAS).

The SBDM Council shall be responsible for reviewing recommendations for school-wide assessment practices and determining if the recommendations promote student learning and increase student achievement. The SBDM Council shall provide final approval of the recommended assessment practices. The SBDM Council shall regularly review and/or update this Classroom Assessment Policy based on the emerging needs of the school.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2005


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Equity and Diversity

POLICY STATEMENT: We commit our school to ensuring that each and every student:

Is able to achieve at high academic levels. Feels safe, welcome, and valued at our school. Receives a full, fair share of the opportunities our school has to offer. Knows and honors the achievements of his or her cultural tradition. Knows and honors the achievements of other cultural traditions he or she may

encounter in our community and later in life.

We commit ourselves to annual reflection on how well we are fulfilling this commitment, including review of the following data disaggregated by sex, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and disability.

Student performance Student participation in our programs Student disciplinary referrals Family involvement in school activities Feedback from students, parents, staff, and community leaders on their

perception of our performance in this area.

Based on what we learn from that reflection, we will develop and vigorously implement the plans needed to correct any failure to fulfill the commitment made above. To the extent possible, we will combine this work with our Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) process and ensure that our staff is caring and culturally responsive.

We have written specific steps to fulfill these commitments in our other policies.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2006


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Homework

POLICY STATEMENT: Bell County High School believes that homework given on a consistent basis is an effective instructional strategy that enables students to practice what they have learned. Homework helps establish independent study skills and promotes individual accountability.

Homework assignments should:

Be assigned frequently. Include all grade levels. Increase in the degree of intensity from Primary to Middle School. Cross all content areas. Reflect extensions of classroom learning. Increase in the amount of time spent as the student progresses through school.

Teacher responsibilities are to:

Regularly provide students with feedback on homework. Provide instructional support to students as needed. Communicate to students clear and concise expectations regarding homework. Make assignments relevant to classroom learning and allow for independent

practice. Use homework as instructional reinforcement, not punishment.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2007


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Improvement Planning

POLICY STATEMENT: The purpose of the SBDM Council is to enhance student achievement. The Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) provides focus for the school community in its efforts to enhance student achievement. The Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Committee will be responsible for overseeing the CSIP process. This committee will include school support personnel and others identified as needed. The Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Committee will be responsible for determining if subcommittees are used in completing and monitoring the CSIP. The subcommittees follow the operational procedures outlined in the bylaws. If subcommittees are created, a member of the Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Committee will serve as chairperson of each of these subcommittees.

The Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Committee will be responsible for the following:

Gathering, compiling, and evaluating information related to curriculum, instruction, and assessment to be used in the needs assessment process.

Developing the CSIP, including identifying goals, objectives, activities, strategies, and funding sources.

Reporting monthly (both orally and in writing) on the progress of the plan through Implementation and Impact Checks to the SBDM Council and all relevant stakeholders.

Reviewing assessment data when they become available and recommending changes when needed.

The SBDM Council is responsible for adopting and monitoring the CSIP. In doing so, the Council has responsibility for ensuring that:

Students’ needs are being addressed by reviewing the plan. Technology and equity are embedded in the CSIP. Funding is appropriately monitored. Professional development (PD) is appropriate and properly implemented. The Implementation and Impact Checks are being completed. The plan is amended or updated based on student needs.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2007a


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Improvement Planning

POLICY STATEMENT: Each year, the standing Instructional Leadership Team (ILT), in collaboration with the faculty, shall work with the district planning coordinator and the principal to conduct a needs assessment and to create, implement, and monitor the Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP). Component managers and the ILT will collaborate to adhere to timelines set in statutes for data analysis and plans to close the achievement gaps in their school. The principal will be responsible for communication with the district staff, the Council and committees, and their leaders throughout the planning process to ensure that the plan is appropriate and will accomplish the school’s mission. The principal will update the SBDM Council and all relevant stakeholders each month as to the progress of the school plan through Implementation and Impact Checks.

The ILT will give the principal a written draft of the school improvement plan by December 1 of each year for Council approval. Component managers and the ILT will follow the district policy on planning to ensure that all timelines are met and that the plan is developed in accordance with district guidelines for planning set in board policy and state law.

The principal will be responsible for inviting parents, teachers, and the community to a Council meeting to share and discuss the draft CSIP for the coming school year. After hearing the discussion and comments, the council will approve the CSIP by majority vote or consensus.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2008a


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Parent Involvement (Title I)

POLICY STATEMENT: The Bell County High School is committed to engaging parents in meaningful activities that will lead to increased student achievement levels. To complete the effective home- school partnership, Bell County High School will provide:

An annual meeting where parents will meet their child’s teacher and be notified of their rights and responsibilities under Title I concerning involvement in their child’s education. A New Student Orientation/Open House will also be scheduled.

A variety of informational meetings throughout the year to assist parents in understanding federal and state academic standards and required assessments as well as training in how they can assist their child with being successful in challenging coursework.

A varied schedule of times for meetings and activities to accommodate the needs of parents.

Two formal parent-teacher conferences and additional information and ongoing communications regarding student progress and achievement.

A school-parent compact, designed with parents and school staff, outlining how parents, students, and staff have a shared responsibility for the student’s education.

Meetings and informational sessions for parents whose children are in key transitional points.

Every effort will be made to communicate with parents in a format and language that are familiar to the parents and easily understandable. Parents and community members are always welcome within Bell County High School.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2008b


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Parent Involvement

POLICY STATEMENT: Our SBDM Council recognizes our students’ families and our local community as essential partners in helping each student succeed. We commit ourselves to:

Sharing clear information about each student’s progress with his or her family. Offering practical suggestions to families on how they can support student

learning at home. Making parents and community members full partners in our decision making. Seeking and supporting adult volunteers to work with and inspire our students.

We will achieve each of these goals through the methods listed below.

INFORMATION ON STUDENT PROGRESSEach grading period, teachers will provide each student’s family with:

A written report on the student’s progress. A written report on how each student with a disability is progressing toward the

goals of the Individual Education Program (IEP). An invitation to meet and discuss the student’s progress. An opportunity for the student to participate in sharing information on his or her

progress with the parents. The e-mail address and telephone numbers they can use to communicate with

their child’s teacher.

HOME SUPPORT FOR STUDENT LEARNINGOur principal and teachers will:

Assign homework that is consistent with our Instruction Policy. Provide information on the content students will learn each year through the

methods listed in our Curriculum Policy. Send home newsletters at least four times a year that include information on

constructive family practices. Support a vigorous Parent Teacher Association (PTA).

Our Family Resource Center (FRC) will: Survey families at least once a year to learn what services and activities would

most help them support their children. Offer a well-planned, well-publicized set of programs to meet those needs. Provide information on services and activities on our school website.


SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2008b

pp


DECISION MAKINGWe invite concerned adults throughout our community to join in our decision making by:

Signing up to serve on our SBDM committees. Attending SBDM Council or committee meetings. Commenting on draft policies and plans as they are made available. Participating in surveys, input meetings, and other opportunities to define school

needs and develop solutions.

VOLUNTEERSWe invite concerned members of our community, including parents, to volunteer to help our students in the following capacities:

Completing the School Volunteer Records Check Form. Tutoring. Assisting with classroom activities. Preparing materials. Joining our PTA and supporting its efforts to strengthen our school.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2010


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Principal Selection

POLICY STATEMENT: Once the Superintendent has verified a vacancy, the SBDM Council will form an Interview Committee. The Principal Selection Interview Committee shall consist of the SBDM Council and five additional members. The SBDM Council will select two members from the Certified staff and two members from the Classified staff to serve on the Interview Committee. The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Board of Managers will assign an additional parent to the Interview Committee.

The outgoing Principal shall not serve on the Council during the Principal selection process. The Superintendent or the Superintendent’s designee shall serve as the chair of the Council for the purpose of the hiring process and shall have voting rights during the selection process.

The Interview Committee, as established above, shall develop a survey and conduct meetings to obtain input from teachers, staff, parents, and community members for the development of specific criteria for the selection of a Principal. The Interview Committee will develop a set of interview questions. The SBDM Council shall communicate to the school community a plan that shall include selection criteria and a timeline. The Interview Committee shall have access to the applications of all persons certified for the position. No Principal who has been removed from a position in the district for cause may be considered for appointment as Principal.

The Interview Committee will schedule a series of meetings to review applicants’ materials, to formulate interview questions using the criteria, and to conduct the oral interviews. The Committee may request that one or more candidates return for a second interview. All interviews and discussion of candidates will be conducted in closed sessions.

After thorough discussion and review of the candidates, the Interview Committee shall make a recommendation of its top choice to the SBDM Council. After consideration has been given to the committee’s recommendation, the Council shall have the responsibility of selecting the Principal for the school as mandated by KRS 160.345. The principal shall be elected on a majority vote of the membership of the Council. If the Council is unable to make a choice, the Council will ask the Superintendent for other available candidates to interview or to appoint an Interim Principal for a period of no longer than one year.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2011


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Protection of Instructional Time

POLICY STATEMENT: Bell County High School ensures that every student will be actively engaged in instructional activities throughout the school day. It is important that interruptions to the instructional process be kept to a minimum. Instructional time will be protected by implementing the following:

Broadcasted messages will occur at 8:00, 9:25, 2:15, 3:15, and on an emergency basis.

Students will begin classroom activities immediately upon arrival. Only emergency or expected calls will be sent to classrooms. School schedules will reduce the amount of time students spend transitioning

from one classroom to another. Scheduled activities that reward or punish student behavior will not be conducted

during instructional time unless they are aligned with the curriculum and with instructional policies established by the Council.

Videos and television broadcasts will be used for instructional purposes only and will support the core content.

Our School Discipline and Classroom Management Policy, along with the School Safety Plan, will be used for the purpose of reducing behavior problems.

FIELD TRIPSMany opportunities for learning exist outside of the classroom. Field trips are part of the students’ instructional day. Therefore, all field trips must be an extension of the curriculum taught in the classroom. For field trips to be approved, the relationship between the curriculum and the field trip must be evidenced in the Request Form completed by the teacher(s). This request must be submitted following appropriate procedures and timelines as outlined in Bell County Board of Education Policy IICA. These procedures and timelines are reviewed each year with the staff and are included in the Faculty Handbook. Additional chaperones may be needed on field trips to ensure the safety of all students. When parent volunteer’ chaperone field trips, a background check must be completed or be on file (as required by law for all volunteers). Chaperones will be transported to the event in the same manner as the student, and only students in the class will be allowed to participate in the field trip.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2012


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Student and Family Support Services

POLICY STATEMENT: A standing committee shall be formed for the purpose of determining support services for students and families. A school counselor shall be the chairperson of this committee. Other representatives will include the Extended School Services (ESS) coordinator, one Exceptional Child Education (ECE) teacher, the Family Resource and Youth Services Center (FRYSC) coordinator, and one representative from each of the teaching teams. This committee shall plan, monitor, and evaluate student and family support services. Support services include, but are not limited to, counseling, ECE, ESS, FRYSC services, and School-Based Admissions and Release Committees (SBARCs).

The committee will be responsible for reporting information on the status of the student and family support services twice a year to the SBDM Council.

Date of First Reading:

Date of Second Reading:

Date Adopted:


SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2013


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Dress Code

POLICY STATEMENT: Except for students who enroll in courses, which require special prescribed attire, students have the right of freedom of dress and appearance so long as the dress or appearance does not present health or safety hazards, cause disruption of the educational process, violate any KRS or Kentucky State Board of Education rule or regulation.

The principal, staff, student body and community at large shall be in appropriate dress, personal appearance, and grooming in terms of the varied situations in which the school community operates. The principal or his/her designee on an individual basis shall deal with extremely exaggerated or immodest modes of dress and personal appearance. Any member of the faculty who observes the violation shall send a pupil who is in violation of the dress code herein described to the principal.

The principal may contact the parent/guardians and may send the student home to correct the violation if the violation cannot be corrected at school and shall issue resolution for the offense.

The student may remove the offending clothing if inappropriate, or exchange it for other clothing that is appropriate. The student will be allowed to return to school (class as soon as the correction is made.) Any classes missed to be counted as unexcused absences.Dress should be proper, modest, and conducive to the learning environment. The dress code for male and female students prohibits the following:

The skin of the stomach and back area showing; Holes in jeans or pants above mid thigh that allow skin to show through (tape can be

used without it counting as a violation); See-through mesh shirts; Short shorts, skirts and dresses (Approximately mid-thigh). The administration will

have final determination as to the appropriateness of clothing length. Cut-off shirts; Facial piercing is prohibited; Low cut blouses, dresses, or tops; Tank tops, spaghetti straps, or single strapped tops. Clothing with alcohol symbols, saying, slogans, or pictures; Clothing with drug symbols, sayings, slogans, or pictures that encourage or promote

the use of drugs; Clothing with names, symbols, slogans, or pictures that related to group violence as

related to non-school organization; Clothing with vulgar or obscene symbols, slogans, pictures, words or any suggestive

word or slogans; Hats or caps; Chains or chain-like items worn or attached to clothing; Unauthorized tech devices in use or sight during class unless authorized by the

instructor for educational purposes. (i.e., beepers, pagers, IPods, MP3, CD players, DVD Players, Personal Computers, etc.…)


SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2013

(continued from previous page)


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Dress Code

POLICY STATEMENT:

A. No chains (including billfold chains) will be allowed.

B. Pupils shall observe modesty, appropriateness, and neatness in clothing and personal appearance. Likewise, male and female students are not permitted to wear pants, slacks, shorts, overalls, etc., so that the waist area of the garment is lower than the waist area of the students. Students are not appropriately dressed if a teacher or administrator feels they are a disturbing influence in class or school because of their mode of dress. If a situation arises that is not covered above, the principal or his/her designee will make a determination as to what is acceptable.

Date Adopted:



SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2014


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Cell Phones

POLICY STATEMENT: Students shall be allowed to possess cell phones.

Cell phones shall not be used during class times unless otherwise specified by the teacher.

Cell phones may be used prior to the start of the school day (7:50AM)

Once a student enters a classroom, that classroom teacher will determine the appropriate use of the cell phone and designate times in which the device will be used and in what context. Until specified, the phone should remain out of sight and be silenced.

Cell phones that are placed in view or that cause a disruption of instruction during the school day shall be confiscated by school personnel and returned to the student at the end of the school day (3:20). Cell phones will NOT be returned during instructional hours, 7:50AM-3:20PM.

There is a designated area in which students may use their cell phones, that area is called a Green Zone. The Cafeteria is a designated Green Zone during Breakfast, Lunch and afternoon break.

First Offense Cell phone confiscated and returned to the student after the official school day has ended.

Second offense will result in cell phone being confiscated for three days, during school hours only, and returned to student after the official school day has ended.

Third Offense will result in cell phone taken for 10 days during school hours only, and returned to student after the official school day has ended

Fourth Offense will result in cell phone taken for the rest of the school year, and possible suspension.

Staff/personnel shall not be responsible for lost or damaged cell phones.

Any student taking pictures or video of another student or staff member shall be considered in violation of the cell phone policy.


SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2014

(Continued from page 50)


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Cell Phones

POLICY STATEMENT: If a student refuses to render a cell phone (this includes all data cards, sim cards,

and other internal/external storage devices) to school personnel the student can be disciplined according to the code of conduct book (disrespect to school persons, aggressive behavior towards school staff, disruption of the educational process*).

*Principal’s discretion may determine which discipline procedure shall apply in specific situations.

SBDM POLICY MANUAL


Policy - #2015


SUBJECT OF THE POLICY: Work Release

POLICY STATEMENT: Bell County High School Students who have obtained a minimum of eighteen credits may apply for work release. Students must be in good standing academically, not truant, and need only to be in class a portion of the seven hour day in order to meet graduation requirements. Students will be released the last period for gainful employment upon completion and approval of the work release request form. Parents must come in person to request the form and fill out their portion in person. Students must have a valid driver’s license and be able to drive themselves to school and work. Students may not give transportation to any other student, work release or otherwise for the purpose of leaving during the school day.

Date Adopted:



Date Adopted:



Date Adopted:




9824 U.S. Highway 25E

Phone: 606-337-7061, Fax: 606-337-0867

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer Offering Equal Educational Opportunities

Documents

SBDM Council Policy Manual 2017-2018 · Web viewSBDM Council Policy Manual 2017-2018 BELL COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLA publication for School Based Decision Making Councils. SBDM Policy Manual