UNIVERSITY CITY HIGH SCHOOL CENTURIONS

(All Changes/Additions are in red)

Own it!

2020-2021

STUDENT/PARENT

HANDBOOK

Revised November 2020

UNIVERSITY CITY HIGH SCHOOL

6949 Genesee Ave., San Diego, CA 92122

Phone Number: 619.605.2800 |Fax: (858) 458-9432

uchs.sandiegounified.org

ALMA MATER

Hail to you old blue and white,

We lift our hearts to you.

May your warm and guiding light

Be ever shining through

Hail to you Centurion

On you we can rely.

Hail to University, University City High

Hail to you old blue and white,

We raise our voice in praise.

May your warm and guiding light

Shine through our golden days.

Alma Mater hail to you,

Forever hear our cry,

Hail to University, University City High

-Thomas G. Ventimiglia

ONLINE LEARNING HANDBOOK

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT        5

UNIVERSITY CITY HIGH SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT        5

SCHOOL-WIDE LEARNING GOALS        5

GENERAL INFORMATION        6

ACADEMIC INFORMATION        6

ASSOCIATED STUDENT BODY (ASB)        6

ASB CARDS                6

CENTURION STUDENT STORE        6

CLUBS                7

DANCES                7

FINANCIAL OFFICE                7

GATE PROGRAM                7

GUIDANCE SERVICES        7

HEALTH OFFICE                8

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER        8

LOCKERS                8

LOST AND FOUND                8

POWERSCHOOL PARENT/STUDENT PORTAL        8

ON AND OFF CAMPUS – AFTER SCHOOL HOURS        8

REFERRAL PROCESS        9

SCHOOL SECURITY                9

DRUG DETECTION DOGS        9

SCHOOL SUPPLIES                9

STUDENT ID CARDS                10

STUDENT NONDISCRIMINATION AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY        10

STUDENT SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY        10

TEXTBOOKS                11

VANDALISM AND PROPERTY DAMAGE        11

WHO TO SEE IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION:        11

YEARBOOK                12

GRADES, ELIGIBILITY & RECOGNITION        13

ATHLETIC/EXTRACURRICULAR ELIGIBILITY        13

RESIDENCY FOR ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY        13

CALIFORNIA SCHOLARSHIP FEDERATION        13

CITIZENSHIP GUIDELINES        13

GRADING AND REPORT CARDS        12

GRADUATION SEMINAR PROGRAM (CREDIT RECOVERY)/ONLINE (iHIGH VIRTUAL ACADEMY) LEARNING        14

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS FOR A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 9-12        15

PRINCIPAL’S HONOR ROLL        15

RULES & REGULATIONS        17

ACADEMIC HONESTY POLICY (Revisions to this Policy are currently being considered)        17

ACTIVITIES – STUDENT PICK-UP        17

BUS REGULATIONS (Z-Passes and ID Cards with Bus Stickers)        17

CLOSED CAMPUS                17

DISCIPLINE PLAN                18

THE CENTURION CODE                18

DISTRICT DISCIPLINE POLICY        18

RESTORATIVE PRACTICES (STATEMENT & VISION)        18

TERMS DEFINED                18

UCHS SCHOOL-WIDE RULES & EXPECTATIONS        19

LEVELS OF INFRACTIONS/CONSEQUENCES        19

PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE CHART        21

ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY        28

CELL PHONE POLICY        28

HALLS AND LUNCH ARBOR        28

HATE VIOLENCE (Education Code 48900.3)        29

INTIMIDATION (Education Code 48900.4)        29

STUDENT NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY        29

BULLYING, HARASSMENT, and INTIMIDATION PROHIBITION (Administrative Procedure 6381)        29

OFF-LIMIT AREA/LUNCHTIME POLICY        32

PARKING                35

PASS POLICY/OUT OF CLASS        35

SKATEBOARDS                35

SMOKING                35

STUDENT DRESS CODE AND ACCESSORIES        36

TARDY POLICY (6-Week Period)        37

TRUANCY POLICY                38

YOUR RIGHTS AND DUE PROCESS OF LAW        38

ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY        38

PROCESSES        39

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES        39

BULLETINS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS        40

CLASS CHANGE POLICY        40

FIRE AND DISASTER DRILLS        40

COMMUNITY COLLEGE COURSES and Early and Late Start Status        41

HOME/SCHOOL  COMPACT        41

STUDENT COMMITMENTS        41

TEACHER COMMITMENTS        41

PARENT/GUARDIAN COMMITMENTS        41

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR COMMITMENTS        42

DISTRICT COMMITMENTS        42

Network Use Guidelines/Student Contract        43

Prohibited Uses                43

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS IN THE EVENT OF A CAMPUS EMERGENCY        47

Steps for Success (Earned Assigned Time Home)        49

APPENDIX A – UCHS Homework Calculation Index        51

DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT

All San Diego students will graduate with the skills, motivation, curiosity and resilience to succeed in their choice of college and career in order to lead and participate in the society of tomorrow. Refer to Appendix A

UNIVERSITY CITY HIGH SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of University City High School is to educate students to become productive and responsible citizens, who realize their full potential through life-long learning

In order to realize the mission of University City High School, the members of the school community have developed and adopted school-wide learning goals for all students to guide them in course selection as well as college and career decisions. Students must demonstrate at the end of their senior year, through a portfolio of work and a senior exhibition, that they have met all of the learning goals of the school.

SCHOOL-WIDE LEARNING GOALS

UNIVERSITY CITY HIGH STUDENTS ARE:

CONTRIBUTORS TO THE COMMUNITY

Active contributors to their community, who give of their time, talents and energy to benefit others

COLLABORATIVE CITIZENS

Collaborative citizens who work well with people of different backgrounds and opinions

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATORS

Effective and knowledgeable communicators, who are able to listen, read, write, think clearly, and respond appropriately to written materials and spoken language

NDEPENDENT CRITICAL THINKERS

Independent, critical thinkers and decision makers who can discern and creatively solve problems using prior knowledge and research skills

TECHNOLOGICALLY SKILLED

Skilled practitioners who have a working knowledge of current technology and its application for personal and workplace purposes

STUDENTS WHO PLAN AND SET GOALS

Responsible planners who know how to set long-term learning and career goals

GENERAL INFORMATION

There will be NO on-site activities, clubs and classes during Online Learning.

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

University City High School is a four-year, comprehensive college-prep and work readiness high school. All students are enrolled in an academic program that will fulfill CSU/UC admission requirements. Students will be challenged through coursework group processes to fulfill course requirements and the school wide learning goals.

ASSOCIATED STUDENT BODY (ASB)

The ASB consists of all students enrolled at University City High School. The officers of the ASB, elected by the students, are charged with the responsibility of planning activities that:

1. Generate school spirit
2. Promote good human relations
3. Promote and support our athletic teams
4. Provide a break in the tension of studies
5. Develop avenues of communication for student concerns to students, staff, administration and district personnel

ASB CARDS

Associated Student Body (ASB-student government) Cards go on sale during pre-registration. While not mandated, all students are encouraged to purchase a card to show their support for the school and activities. Athletic letters, awards and pins, as well as student discounts to campus events are funded through ASB card revenue. Additionally, the holder of an ASB Card is entitled to free admission to home football and basketball non-CIF playoff games.  ASB Card pricing starts at $25 dollars.

CENTURION STUDENT STORE

Closed during Online School, visit the Student Webstore for purchases.

The ASB and cafeteria operate a school store dedicated to serving students at UCHS. Located in Room 209, the store is open during lunch, offering food items and refreshments.  Promote school spirit and buy from your student store.

CLUBS

Only school-sponsored and agency-sponsored clubs affiliated with University City High School may use the name of the school, use school buildings and facilities, have publicity in school publications or on the school grounds, and sell tickets on the school grounds to activities sponsored by the clubs. These privileges are denied to all other clubs. The California Education Code forbids any high school student to become a member of a secret club, fraternity or sorority. Anyone interested in starting a new club must pick up forms in room 202.

DANCES

To attend a school-sponsored dance, students must have attained a 2.0 GPA in academics and citizenship on their previous report card and must submit a completed, signed Dance Contract. This includes the Prom dance for seniors. Additionally, ALL tardies, truancies, and uncleared absences must be cleared to be eligible to attend a school-sponsored dance. The school will hold detention sessions both on early-out days and on Saturdays to clear attendance issues. To view a sample dance contract form, please see the sample towards the end of the STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK.

FINANCIAL OFFICE

The Financial Office is located in the Main Office Building with windows that face the Student Quad. The office is open before and after school and during the student lunch period. Students who come during class or during the passing periods cannot be accommodated. The Finance Office sells tickets for all athletic events, dances, and other ASB activities.  Students will need to have a Student ID card for all transactions and payment is by cash only. The school district does not allow credit and debit card sales at schools. Any club raising money for their organization needs to turn in their funds raised daily to the finance office.  This is to avoid possible loss or theft.

GATE PROGRAM

University High School offers a full program of Gifted and Talented Education designated courses. Students who have been identified through the district process are programmed into appropriate Cluster, Advanced, Honors or Advanced Placement courses. Please know that as a result of budget challenges, the GATE classes will have more students in them. All students who are GATE identified must be enrolled in at least one course each year that satisfies the program requirements.

Admission to the Seminar Program is by application only. Students are selected on the basis of district-determined criteria and placement of Seminar identified students is determined by Board of Education Policy. A booklet that describes seminar offerings in all San Diego City Schools -- and provides detailed information about the seminar course offerings at University City High School -- is provided to all Seminar qualified students and parents by the Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Office.

GUIDANCE SERVICES

The guidance program at UCHS is designed to help you attain the highest standards of academic achievement, personal development, social development, and career planning.  We try to do this in several ways:

1. Helping the new student feel at home with new teachers and friends in a different setting.
2. Individual conferences whenever a student, a teacher, or their counselor deems necessary.
3. A testing program designed to help the student learn as much as possible about his/her capabilities.
4. The counselor welcomes the opportunity to talk things over with any student, parent, or teacher.

The most ideal way to set up a time to meet with your counselor is by emailing your counselor directly. Students and parents can also fill out a meeting request. Request forms are located on the counter by the counseling entrance. Individual email addresses for counselors can be located below (or found online. Also, please note that the counselor alpha assignments listed below may change

• if they do, students/parents will be notified). Students are welcomed to come to the counseling office before or after school or at lunchtime, but please do not wait in the counseling office. Your counselor will call you in during the day as soon as their schedule permits.  However, if you have a dire and pressing issue that needs to be addressed, please do not leave.  Please find a staff member and let that person know why you need help immediately.  Your health and safety is our number one concern!

HEALTH OFFICE

The nurse is available in the Health Office (Building 100) on certain days to be determined. A student wishing to see the nurse during class time must obtain a pass from his/her teacher. No pass is necessary during the lunch period. California State law requires that any medication brought from home to be administered at school should be labeled with the student’s name, name of the medication, dosage and hours to be taken.  Prescription medicines must be in their original containers.  All medications must be left with the nurse. A student needing PE medical excuses should bring his/her doctor’s note to the nurse. In addition to his/her other responsibilities, the nurse is available to students as a medical resource. Should the nurse be absent, please see another front office staff member for assistance.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER

University City High School boasts one of the finest facilities in the district. The Media Center will be open M-F from 7:00 am to 3:30 p.m. Please know that these hours may have to be adjusted to deal with less staffing.  Information is offered to students in many formats, both print and non-print materials including Internet access, art and study prints.  To use the Internet, students may be asked to show their ID card.

Students may come to the Media Center with their classes or on a pass. Passes are not required before or after school or during lunch; however, at any other time, students must have a pass from a staff member to enter and use the Media Center.

Students may borrow materials by showing their Student ID Card. Items may be checked out for two weeks, and can be renewed.

Students are requested to be considerate of others at all times in the Media Center. At no time is any FOOD or DRINK allowed in the Media Center.  Access to the facility will be denied to students disobeying these basic rules.

LOCKERS

Two hundred and fifty (250) outside lockers are available at UCHS. Lockers and a lock will be offered first to seniors only on a “first come, first served” basis. Seniors will be assigned their lockers during the first few weeks of school and must share a locker with another senior. Students in grades 9-11 will have an opportunity to be assigned a locker based on availability after seniors have been given a chance to acquire one.

Students are cautioned not to keep valuables or money in their lockers at any time.  Lockers must be kept clean during the course of the year. Lockers are subject to administrative search. At the end of the school year all materials must be removed from lockers no later than NOON on the designated “locker clean-out” day. All contents of lockers will be discarded after this date and time.

LOST AND FOUND

The lost and found department (for clothes and backpacks) is located in the Main Office. Textbooks are sent to the Media Center. If items lost have a significant monetary value, they will be kept by the vice principals. If you lose or misplace an item, be sure to check one of these places.

POWERSCHOOL PARENT/STUDENT PORTAL

Students and parents are encouraged to monitor academic process via PowerSchool Parent/Student Portal. While not all teachers utilize the system, most UCHS staff members use PowerSchool Gradebook that allows students and parents the opportunity to monitor their student’s progress. Students can access their PowerSchool information by using their Active Directory PIN and Password. Parents/guardians can gain access by obtaining an Access ID and Password from the school. This will allow parents/guardians to create an individual account. After receiving the ID and Password, go to https://powerschool.sandi.net, select "Create an Account," and follow the instructions to create a new parent/guardian account. Once an account is created, parents can review their student's class schedule, grades, and attendance from any computer that has Internet access, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The PowerSchool Parent Portal also allow parents to manage their account, link any and all students to the account (for whom the parent has parental and legal rights to) and set email notification preferences for each student linked to the account. To obtain an Access ID and Password, please contact the site tech.

ON AND OFF CAMPUS – AFTER SCHOOL HOURS

There will be NO on-site activities, clubs and classes during Online Learning.

Students are encouraged to get involved in extra-curricular activities after school. Students are also encouraged to stay for tutoring if they need help with their classes.  All students staying on campus after hours may do so as long as they have a stated purpose.

Students may not leave the campus to go to a friend’s house, the UTC mall, or any other non-school sponsored activity and return back to campus.  Students wanting to ride the late activity bus to go home must have a pass indicating their after school activity and their student ID showing bus privileges to get on the bus.

REFERRAL PROCESS

Inappropriate classroom behavior:

If you are behaving inappropriately in class your teacher will:

1. Confer with you individually (Level 1)
2. Contact your parents directly by telephone or email (Level 2)
3. Hold a conference with you and your parent (Level 3)
4. Contact your counselor (possible conference with student/teacher/counselor)
5. Lower your citizenship grade accordingly
6. Assign appropriate classroom consequences

If you get a referral –

After the above actions have taken place, and if the student continues to be uncooperative and disruptive, a formal referral report by the teacher will be made to the counselor.

1. Your teacher will deliver the referral form to your counselor at his/her convenience along with the Classroom Levels of Intervention form.  Your counselor will send a pass for you as soon as possible.
2. If your behavior warrants immediate removal from the classroom, your teacher will call ext. 111 to request a campus security assistant to pick you up. (If you are immediately removed from your classroom, your citizenship grade for that grading period may automatically become a “U”.)
3. You will be escorted to the assistant principal’s office and immediate disciplinary measures will be taken.
4. Your teacher has the authority to suspend you from the class for that day and the next.
5. As members of the site faculty/staff, all members of the faculty and staff are entitled to the same respect.

SCHOOL SECURITY

Every effort is made by the staff and administration of UCHS to provide security to protect students’ personal property. However, theft might occur. It is, therefore, imperative that students take steps to protect their property by following these suggestions:

1. Do not leave valuables of any kind in any locker on campus.
2. Do not bring excessive amounts of money to school and never “flash” money on campus.
3. Know where all of your possessions are at all times.  WATCH THEM.
4. Bicycles and mopeds should be locked to the racks provided in the bicycle parking areas.
5. Always check your lock before walking away from your locker and never share locker combinations.
6. Write down serial numbers of all valuables and keep records at home.
7. Report any theft or suspected theft to the school police officer immediately.
8. Keep cell phones/iPods/MP3 players, etc. out of sight and in your possession at all times.

Students are advised that the school assumes no responsibility for the loss or theft of personal property or for books or materials loaned to the students by the school.

DRUG DETECTION DOGS

In an ongoing effort to eliminate drugs from all Middle School and High School campuses, the San Diego Unified School District will utilize a Certified Narcotics Detection Dog and Certified Police Dog Handler from the San Diego Unified School District Police Department. Use of the Drug Detection Dog within SDUSD Schools is in compliance with Federal, State and City codes. Use of the Narcotics Detection Dog will begin immediately and there is no foreseen end date. All Narcotics, Weapons, Contraband and other illegal items recovered will be dealt with in accordance with Federal, State, City and SDUSD Law(s). Person(s) are not sniffed by Canine.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

Students are expected to provide their own 3 ring binder notebook with paper, dividers and appropriate writing tools (pencil, pens). This notebook is to be brought to school each and every school day. Teachers and staff should not ask (mandate or require) a student to purchase materials for learning.  If this occurs, please contact a school administrator.

STUDENT ID CARDS

No ID Cards are being made yet, during Online Learning.

Students will have pictures taken for student ID cards during the August pre-registration at no charge. One make-up day will be conducted approximately three to four weeks after the start of school in September. If an ID card is lost or stolen, replacements are available for $5.00.  UCHS ID cards are required for the following activities:

• Identification
• Bus Pass
• ASB discounts
• Internet Use
• Food Service
• Textbooks & Materials
• Finance Office Transactions
• Out of Class Hall Pass
• Dance Admission
• Clearing Attendance Issues at Scheduled Detentions (After-school, lunch, early-out days, and Saturday Success School)

Each student must carry a current UCHS ID card for identification purposes, and the card must be shown to any staff member on request. Tardy students who do not have a current school ID card in their possession at the time they are tardy will be assigned after-school detention. Also, a current ID card is required for any student requesting a pass to leave class during class time and must be attached to a teacher-provided lanyard, which is worn while out of class. Students requesting a pass who do not have an ID card will require a campus security escort and will be assigned after-school detention for not having their ID card.

A student must also show their ID card to purchase an ASB card or other items at the Financial Office, attend school dances, check out textbooks and library books, use the Internet, and ride the bus. The ASB stickers, Internet usage, and bus pass stickers are all adhered to the back of the student ID card.

STUDENT NONDISCRIMINATION AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY

The San Diego Unified School District Board of Education is committed to equal opportunity for all individuals in education. District programs and activities shall be free from discrimination based on sex, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability or any other unlawful consideration. The district shall promote programs that ensure that discriminatory practices are eliminated in all district activities.

Any student who engages in discrimination of another student or district employee may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Any employee who permits or engages in discrimination may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

Any student or parent who feels that discrimination has occurred should immediately contact a teacher or the principal for resolution at the site.

STUDENT SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY

San Diego Unified School District is committed to making the schools free from sexual harassment. Sexual harassment can be such actions as: Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature made by someone from or in the educational setting.

The district prohibits conduct that has the purpose or effect of having a negative impact on the student’s academic performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.

The district further prohibits sexual harassment in which a student’s grade, benefits, services, honors, program or activities are dependent on submission to such conduct.

Students should report any sexual harassment to their school principal, vice principal, counselor or teacher. Students who violate the sexual harassment policy shall be disciplined appropriately. This includes suspension or possible expulsion. Employees who violate this policy shall be disciplined according to personnel procedures.

To File A Discrimination or Sexual Harassment Complaint:

1. Obtain a copy of the Uniform Complaint Form and procedure from the school or the district’s Legal Office. Remedies available outside of the district are listed in this procedure.
2. Investigation: San Diego Unified School District will immediately undertake an effective, thorough, and objective investigation of the harassment allegations and provide a written report within 60 days of when the complaint is filed.
3. Action: If the district determines that its policies prohibiting sexual harassment have been violated, disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion, will be taken.

The person filing the complaint may also pursue action in civil court.

Complaints will be kept confidential. The district prohibits retaliation to any participant in the complaint process. Each complaint shall be investigated promptly and in a way that respects the privacy of all parties concerned.

If you have a discrimination or sexual harassment complaint, students should contact a teacher or administrator for resolution at the school site. If not resolved, contact the district Title IX Coordinator: Lynn Ryan, 4100 Normal Street, Room 2129, San Diego, CA 92103, (619) 725-7225.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks are distributed to students before school begins and during the first week of school via their English classes. Textbook exchanges may be made using the student’s ID card at the Media Center circulation desk. Upon reissuing textbooks, they become the sole responsibility of the student. STUDENTS WILL BE REQUIRED TO PAY FOR LOST, STOLEN, DAMAGED, MILDEWED OR OTHERWISE MISSING TEXTBOOKS.

Students, who have outstanding debts from the previous semester, or from another school, must clear their debt prior to pre- registration. Students who transfer to another school or are changing classes must return their textbooks to the Media Center. Book charges for outstanding debts will be forwarded to the school to which a student transfers.

VANDALISM AND PROPERTY DAMAGE

Students who destroy or vandalize school property will be required to pay damages and/or losses. In addition to making restitution, suspension, expulsion, and/or legal action such as arrest may be recommended by the school against the student(s) responsible.

WHO TO SEE IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION:

YEARBOOK

Receiving your yearbook in June is one of the highlights of the school year. The yearbook may be purchased during pre- registration at substantial savings compared to the regular sales in November and December. No extra books are ordered after this two-month selling period.

GRADES, ELIGIBILITY & RECOGNITION

ATHLETIC/EXTRACURRICULAR ELIGIBILITY

Visit the Athletics Site for current information on Athletics during Online Learning.

Becoming involved in extracurricular activities at UCHS is an exciting prospect and a privilege. However, whether it is the sports program, cheerleading, ASB, or any other activity, there are standards that must be met to participate. In general, the standards are as listed below.  If you have questions concerning them, please contact the respective coach and/or advisor.

1. A scholastic grade point average of at least 2.0*
2. A citizenship grade point average of at least 2.0*
3. Physical exam from a private physician (athletics)
4. Insurance – school or private carrier

*ASB GPA REQUIREMENT IS 2.83, NON WEIGHTED FOR ACADEMICS AND CITIZENSHIP*

RESIDENCY FOR ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY

Please know that attending UCHS may not naturally permit you to compete for the school in athletic competitions. Students and their parents who do not reside in the UCHS school boundary area need to check with their coach or athletic director to make sure they have athletic eligibility. If a student moves for any reason, the school and athletic director need to know about it. A student who plays on an athletic team for the school while not having approved clearance to do so because of where s/he lives, results in the team’s forfeiture of victories and subsequent season titles. Athletic eligibility must be gained for all students who reside outside of the UCHS boundaries prior to stepping foot on the field or court.

CALIFORNIA SCHOLARSHIP FEDERATION

The California Scholarship Federation (CSF) is a statewide high school honor society. Eligibility for membership is dependent on grades. A total of ten points is required (A=3, B=1). Physical Education grades are not included. Seven points must be from academic subjects.  Membership is not automatic; students must apply for membership and renew it each semester.

CITIZENSHIP GUIDELINES

When a spirit of cooperation exists on a school campus, a positive learning atmosphere also exists. Good citizens demonstrate attitudes of caring, concern and respect for others. The semester citizenship grade will be the cumulative average of the three six- week grading periods.

E = Excellent – Outstanding student

G = Good – Above average student

S = Satisfactory – Meets citizenship standards

N = Needs to improve – Needs help in meeting defined standards

U = Unsatisfactory – Fails to meet school citizenship standards

The school will recognize students demonstrating perfect citizenship marks at the semester grading periods. UCHS believes earning perfect citizenship marks says a lot about a student. In addition to behavior in class, the tardy and truancy policies explained in the Student/Parent Handbook determine citizenship grades.

GRADING AND REPORT CARDS

The evaluation of student achievement is one of the important functions of the teacher. The accepted marking system is as follows:

1. Superior
2. Above
3. Average/Satisfactory
4. Below Average
5. Failure; credit not granted

UCHS issues report cards approximately every six weeks. THE FIRST TWO GRADING REPORTS OF EACH SEMESTER SERVE AS PROGRESS REPORTS.  The district prints the final report card of each semester and the June report is mailed home.

GRADUATION SEMINAR PROGRAM (CREDIT RECOVERY)/ONLINE (iHIGH VIRTUAL ACADEMY) LEARNING

The Graduation Seminar Program is a means for seniors and underclass students to make up course deficiencies for graduation. Students may enroll only after receiving a failed (F) or nearly failed (D) grade upon completion of the course. The program is not designed for enrichment/concurrent courses. Students may be enrolled during the regular scheduled day or after school. Please know that credit recovery classes meet the fulfillment for high school graduation credits, but the NCAA Clearinghouse does not recognize them for course completion. If a student is a potential college athlete, they need to make up the course in summer school or retake the class during the school year.

Opportunity permitting, online learning through the district’s iHigh Virtual Academy is an option for students to take during the school day or after school. Courses can be taken via online learning through an independent learning environment whereby students take quizzes and tests to demonstrate mastery learning and earn a credit and grade. These courses can be taken by all four grade-levels and are accepted for graduation purposes and the NCAA Clearinghouse accepts most. Please know that the NCAA continually updates its course list, and it is the student's responsibility to stay informed. To find a list of these courses, visit this website: https://web1.ncaa.org/hsportal/exec/hsAction?hsActionSubmit=searchHighSchool

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS FOR A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 9-12

Graduation Requirements At-A-Glance

▪▪        44 semester credits needed for graduation.

Core UC ‘a-g’ Course Requirements

Students must complete a minimum of 44 semester credits, as specified above. Students are expected to meet California standards in English, mathematics, science, history/social science, fine and practical arts, and physical education, as well as the UC/CSU “A- G” course requirements.

Due to the variation in college entrance requirements, it should be understood that meeting these high school graduation requirements does not guarantee entrance to specific colleges. Catalogs of the colleges to which admission is sought should be reviewed for specific course preparation and admission policies.

PRINCIPAL’S HONOR ROLL

Counselors issue congratulatory certificates to students who earn a 3.5 weighted GPA without “N’s” or “U’s” for each semester.

SCHOOL SERVICE

Only two credits of school service may apply toward graduation, and a student may enroll in no more than one school service per semester.  School services include: Media Lab, Library Practice, and Tutoring.

RULES & REGULATIONS

ACADEMIC HONESTY POLICY (Revisions to this Policy are currently being considered)

The teachers, counselors, and administrators at University City High School agree that honesty and integrity are the core of the educational process. In order for educational institutions to accomplish the task of providing a meaningful and challenging opportunity for students, honesty of performance must be a dominant and consistent attitude among all those involved.

Since cheating undermines the academic process, destroys student integrity, and interferes with the trust necessary for effective student-teacher relationships, the Instructional Council of University City High School has requested that this policy concerning academic honesty be initiated and communicated to all members of our educational community.

The acts of academic dishonesty listed below are of major concern to the Council. These acts will be dealt as follows: parents will be notified in all instances, and the incident will be documented with a referral.

1. Cheating on Tests and Assignments

A student guilty of dishonesty such as requesting, giving or receiving information on an examination, quiz or assignment, will receive a zero on that work. That zero, will be averaged into the student's academic grade and the semester citizenship grade will be lowered.

2. Plagiarism

A student guilty of plagiarism, i.e., copying any part of another’s notebooks, computer disc, homework assignment or any published materials, will receive a zero grade on the assignment. That zero grade will be averaged with the other course grades for that grading period and the semester citizenship grade will be lowered. Staff members observing an act of plagiarism will take the work and notify appropriate teachers.

3. Theft or Alteration of Materials

A student guilty of stealing or using stolen materials or of altering test or class materials may face suspension, a failure grade of F/U for the semester, removal from class with a failure grade, removal from UCHS or all of the above.

4. Test Avoidance

When it has been determined that a student has missed 50% of the announced test/quiz days within a grading period, the teacher will notify the parent of the potential test avoidance problem. At the teacher’s discretion, any further test day absence may result in forfeiting the opportunity to make up the test.

NOTE: Any two incidents in violation of items 1 through 3 above within the same course will result in a grade of F/U for that semester. Misuse of any form of technology will not be permitted. Teachers must refer documentation to the office and contact parents.

ACTIVITIES – STUDENT PICK-UP

All students must be picked up and be off campus within 30 minutes of the conclusion of a school event. If not, students are subject to attending Saturday Success School.

BUS REGULATIONS (Z-Passes and ID Cards with Bus Stickers)

Riding the bus is a privilege granted to students. UCHS issues Z-Passes and ID cards with bus stickers and students are required to scan their Z-Passes and show their ID cards to the bus driver at all times (if asked to do so). Temporary bus passes will NOT be provided for the 3:50 p.m. bus in the event a student does not have their Z-Pass and/or ID card. Students without an ID card must wait for the 4:50 p.m. bus. Temporary bus passes/Z-Passes can be obtained from Mrs. Smith in the main office. The 5:00 and Athletic late activity buses are available to athletes and game attendees only and require an athletic sticker or game ticket stub.

Improper conduct while riding the bus will lead to disciplinary action and the possibility that the privilege will be suspended. Students are to ride only the buses to which they are assigned and are not to invite non-students to ride school buses. California Administrative Code Title V, Section 14103 states: “Pupils transported in a school bus or in a school pupil activity bus shall be under the authority of, and responsible directly to, the driver of the bus, and the driver shall be held responsible for the orderly conduct of the pupils while they are on the bus or being escorted across a street, highway or road. Continued disorderly conduct or persistent refusal to submit to the authority of the driver shall be sufficient reason for a pupil to be denied transportation.”

CLOSED CAMPUS

During the 1995-96 school year, the Board of Education of the San Diego Unified School District adopted a “closed campus” policy. “Closed campus” means that students are not allowed off campus during the school day, including lunch. Students off campus during the day or for school issues require a Blue Slip or an ASB/Journalism/Yearbook ID card. Furthermore, students are not to be in the parking lot during school hours and lunchtime.

DISCIPLINE PLAN

The following plan, chart, and supporting materials indicate the disciplinary actions that apply to each problem area. In each instance leveled consequences are suggested. There are also alternate actions that can be used at the discretion of the administrator. The list covers suggested actions for first occurrences and for repeated occurrences. If a student has demonstrated excellent behavior and then becomes involved in a problem, school officials may consider the record of that student’s good behavior before any action is taken. Such factors as the length of time since a student’s last problem, his/her attitude, etc., will be taken into account for a student who is continually involved in problems.

THE CENTURION CODE

We believe that teaching and learning happen best in an environment that is safe, supportive, attractive and orderly. Therefore, all students and adults are expected to:

• Be prepared to learn and work hard every day
• Respect other people and their property
• Act responsibly at all times
• Behave safely and have regard for the safety of others
• Be kind to yourself and others

DISTRICT DISCIPLINE POLICY

The San Diego Board of Education has adopted policies regarding standards of student behavior. Behaviors that the board considers inappropriate and are immediate reasons for suspension include:

• Attempted or actual physical injury to another person
• Weapons (actual or imitation firearms, knife, explosive or other dangerous objects)
• Drugs or drug paraphernalia, alcohol and/or tobacco on school grounds
• Damage to school or private property
• Stealing or receiving of school or private property
• Obscenity
• Disruption/defiance
• Sexual harassment
• Threats and/or intimidation (hazing) or extortion
• Hate incidents

RESTORATIVE PRACTICES (STATEMENT & VISION)

At UCHS, we believe that all behavior infractions are a result of people making poor decisions. Our goal at UCHS is to work with students to make appropriate decisions that support themselves and those around them. In the case of most infractions, someone has committed an error and has directly impacted or hurt someone else.  The key in a philosophy of restorative practices is allowing individuals the opportunity to learn what they have done, and provide a chance for them to make it "right." In essence, to “Own It”! As we work with students, we will use this overarching vision to do the best we can to make things right, and to restore faith and confidence in the community.

TERMS DEFINED

Behavior Contract: A contract that records and communicates to the parents, student and teachers the behavior of the student over a period of time ranging from one week to the entire school year.

Buddy Room: Students are not allowed in class for a period of time ranging between five minutes and the entire length of the period and completes assignment(s) in another teacher’s classroom.

Campus Beautification: A program which takes place during lunchtime (or on a Saturday) in which students are assigned community service on campus. Students are assigned by administration. This is an optional behavioral support program and students can be assigned an alternate consequence.

Defiance: Intentionally not following school rules and/or directions of a staff member.

Expulsion: Student is prohibited from attending the school for up to one year. The principal recommends the student for expulsion, but only the board of education has the authority to expel.

“Own It”/In-School Suspension (ISS): An informal suspension in which a student is prohibited from attending classes, but completes assignments in another designated room/office on campus. ISS is assigned by an administrator in lieu of a formal suspension and is not recorded in a student’s cumulative file, but is recorded in PowerSchool.

Parent Shadow: Parent/guardian spends a full day on campus with their student.

Period Suspension: Per the Collective Bargaining Agreement between SDUSD and SDEA, teachers are authorized to suspend a student from their class for the day of the incident and the day following for a good cause (Article 11.7.3). Must be written on a referral form and work should be supplied.

Referral: Form of communicating and documenting student behaviors. Must be completed and submitted for all Level 3 and Level 4 offenses.

Saturday Success School: A 4-hour school session that occurs on Saturday mornings starting at 8am and ending at 12noon. Attending Saturday School clears an entire day of absences and/or up to four tardies.

Student Study Team (SST): A meeting which involves a student’s teachers, support staff, counselor, administration, parent(s) and sometimes the student to discuss behavior and/or academic problems. The goal of the SST is to mutually identify and implement strategies to assist the student.

Suspension: A formal suspension in which a student is prohibited from entering school grounds for one to five days. Formal suspensions are recorded and remain in a student’s cumulative file. Assigned by an administrator.

Zero Tolerance (ZT): SDUSD has adopted a policy that does not tolerate possession or use of weapons of any kind, drugs, robbery, alcohol and/or tobacco (or controlled substance); repeated incidents of violent acts (including fighting), assault on a school employee or attempting to commit or committing a sexual assault or battery. Expulsion from the district results in the students’ loss of privilege to attend school or extracurricular activities, resulting in being placed in an alternative school for up to an entire school year.

UCHS SCHOOL-WIDE RULES & EXPECTATIONS

Discipline is intended to foster responsibility, independence and a positive attitude. The best discipline is self-control. It is based upon understanding the limits of one’s freedom and actions as they relate to others.

1. Follow directions the first time they are given by an adult/staff member;
2. Arrive to class on time and prepared with all materials needed;
3. Leave electronic devices at home or keep them out of sight and off…use cell phones before school, after school, or during lunch;
4. Do not leave the school campus or be in a restricted area without permission;
5. Do not use profanity, threaten others, or display any gang behaviors (signs, colors, drawings, etc.);
6. Do not fight or play fight;
7. Know and follow all classroom rules as determined by the classroom teacher;
8. Follow the school-wide dress code.

LEVELS OF INFRACTIONS/CONSEQUENCES

PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE CHART

To the parents: We hope this information will be of assistance to you if your child becomes involved in a discipline problem. It must be remembered that each case has its own facts, and the people dealing with it will do their utmost to find out all the pertinent information and treat your child fairly.  We also wish to be fair and as consistent as possible in dealing with our students.

Please know that based on the infraction, the determination for level of intervention may vary depending on the severity and the repeated nature of behavior infractions.

Parental support at home is of great help when dealing with discipline problems. Please help by discussing any discipline problems with your child; instruct him/her on proper behavior and encourage him/her to follow school rules.

ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY

Electronic devices include mp3 players, CD players, cell phones, pagers, cameras, portable/Bluetooth speakers, headphones and any other device powered by a battery. All audio/music devices must be used in conjunction with headphones. Portable speakers use is limited to approved student dance groups who are practicing after school – in these cases, volume must be at an appropriate level. Due to disruptions to instruction and distractions from the learning environment, unauthorized cell phone use is not permitted at UCHS during class time (in or out of the classroom). Authorized access and use of a cell phone is determined by the teacher. Unless a teacher authorizes the use of the phone, it should be kept out of site and turned off during class time.

Unauthorized use is grounds for confiscation of the cell phone by school officials, including classroom teachers. If there is an emergency, please contact the front office for help. Any electronic device that is visible, audible or otherwise in use during prohibited times and without authorization may be confiscated. Students who walk into a classroom with an electronic device visible may have that device confiscated by the teacher (at the discretion of the teacher). Confiscated devices will only be returned to parents after 2:15 pm.   Please know this may be on the day of the offense or on another day when a VP is available to provide the parent the device.

Because students have been using phones to take pictures of tests, teachers may collect from students their phones during testing periods.  Teachers will always return phones back to their students at the end of the period.

CELL PHONE POLICY

New Cell Phone Policy (OSU) as determined by the SSGT on May 2, 2018

Please know that the following item was passed by the SSGT on Wednesday, May 2nd.  The new cell phone policy will not begin until Monday, May 11th.  After May 8th, the new cell phone policy will start. 

1. There will be NO cell phone use during instruction time (bell-to-bell). Cell phones are to be   off, out of sight, and not in use (OSU).  Same holds during bathroom passes, or other passes during the instructional day.

2. Teachers need to notify administration in advance for when they want their students to use their cell phones for educational value.  Educational use of student cell phone will be purposeful and used for instructional merit.  

3. When a student is not in compliance, the teacher will give a verbal warning to put the cell phone away.

4. If a student is not in compliance after a verbal warning, the teacher will request the phone from the student.  The phone will be given to an administrator for the student to pick up.  

a.       If the phone is taken on Monday or Tuesday, it will be accessible to the student to pick up after school on Wednesdays (from 12:55 to 1:30 pm or from 2:18 to 3:00pm).

b.      If the phone is taken on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, it will be accessible after school on Fridays (from 2:18 to 3:00pm).

c.       If a student does not agree to turn over phone to their teacher, a referral will be written for the student by the teacher and sent to an administrator.

5. Should a student disagree with their OSU violation, the administration will follow up with teacher and student to make a determination as to whether there was a violation.

6. If a phone is taken from a student, it’s up to the student to notify their parent/guardian that their phone has been confiscated for OSU violation.  A parent can always come pick up their student’s phone on Wednesdays and Fridays during the scheduled time periods.

For the purposes of UCHS, laser pointers are not included in the above definition and are not to be on campus at any time in the possession of students.

HALLS AND LUNCH ARBOR

Students should be in the hallways ONLY before and after school or when changing classes. Any other time the students should have a pass to enter these areas. Students are asked to be courteous at all times and to refrain from running, shouting, and playing in the hallways. Additionally, students are expected to help keep the campus clean by picking up after themselves.

HATE VIOLENCE (Education Code 48900.3)

“A pupil in grades 4 through 12, inclusive, may be suspended from school if the principal determines that the pupil has caused, attempted to cause, threatened to cause, or participated in an act of hate violence.” As defined in Penal Code Section 422.6, no person shall by force or threat of force, willfully injure, intimidate, interfere with, oppress, or threaten any other person in the free exercise or enjoyment of any right or privilege secured to him or her by constitution or laws of this state or by the constitution or laws of the United States because of the other person’s race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, disability, gender, or sexual orientation.

INTIMIDATION (Education Code 48900.4)

“A pupil in grades 4 through 12, inclusive, may be suspended from school if the principal of the school in which the pupil is enrolled determines that the pupil has intentionally engaged in harassment, threats, or intimidation directed against a pupil or group of pupils, that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to have the actual and reasonably expected effect of materially disrupting class work, creating substantial disorder and invading the rights of that pupil or group of pupils by creating an intimidating or hostile educational environment.

STUDENT NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY

The San Diego Unified School District Board of Education is committed to equal opportunity for all individuals in education. District programs and activities shall be free from discrimination based on sex, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability or any other unlawful consideration. The district shall promote programs that ensure that discriminatory practices are eliminated in all district activities.

Any student who engages in discrimination of another student or district employee may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Any employee who permits or engages in discrimination may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

Any student or parent who feels that discrimination has occurred should immediately contact a teacher or the principal for resolution at the site.

BULLYING, HARASSMENT, and INTIMIDATION PROHIBITION (Administrative Procedure 6381)

(A-3550) In its commitment to providing all students and staff with a safe learning environment where everyone is treated with respect and no one is physically or emotionally harmed, the Board of Education will not tolerate any student or staff member being bullied (including cyber-bullying), harassed, or intimidated in any form at school or school-related events, (including off-campus events, school sponsored activities, school busses, any event related to school business), or outside of school hours with the intention to be carried out during any of the above.

Such acts include those that are reasonably perceived as being motivated either by an actual or perceived attribute that includes but is not limited to race, religion, creed, color, marital status, parental status, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, ancestry, national origin, ethnic group identification, age, mental or physical disability or any other distinguishing characteristic.

The district further prohibits the inciting, aiding, coercing or directing of others to commit acts of bullying or cyber-bullying, harassment or intimidation. Any staff member that observes, overhears or otherwise witnesses bullying

(including cyber-bullying), harassment, or intimidation, or to whom such actions have been reported must take prompt and appropriate action to stop the behavior and to prevent its reoccurrence as detailed in the applicable Administrative Procedure. Students who observe, overhear, or otherwise witness such actions must, and parents/district visitors are encouraged to report the behaviors to a staff member. At each school, the principal or principal’s designee is responsible for receiving and promptly investigating complaints alleging violations of this policy. Any form of retaliation in response to a report of such acts is prohibited.

1. PURPOSE AND SCOPE (6381 – Revised 8/24/2015 – Referenced Attachments can be found at www.sandi.net)

1. To outline the district’s prohibition on bullying and intimidation, responsibilities for leadership, and administrative procedures governing the reporting process. This procedure applies to allegations of bullying and intimidation of students by students or adults.
2. The district believes that all students have a right to a safe and healthy school environment. The district, schools, and community have an obligation to promote mutual respect, tolerance and acceptance.
3. The district will not tolerate behavior that infringes on the rights and safety of any student. Neither staff nor students shall intimidate, harass, or bully another student through words or actions. Such behavior includes: direct physical contact, such as hitting or shoving; verbal assaults, such as teasing or name-calling; and social isolation or manipulation.
4. The district expects students, staff, parents/guardians, volunteers and visitors to promptly report incidents of bullying to the site principal/administrator or designee. Staff who witness such acts must take prompt steps to intervene when safe to do so. Each complaint of bullying should be promptly investigated. Complaints may be investigated informally by the site or through the formal complaint process under this procedure at the discretion of the complainant. This policy applies to students and adults on school grounds, while traveling to and from school or a school-sponsored activity, during the lunch period, whether on or off campus, and during a school-sponsored activity.
5. Related Procedures:

Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex        0112

Nondiscrimination of Students Who Are Transgendered…………..        0114

Uniform Complaint Process ……………………………………………………………….. 1700

2. LEGAL AND POLICY BASIS

1. References: Board policy A-3550; California Education Code §200, 201, 220, 234, 234.1, 32261, 35294 et seq., 48900.3, and 48985; Assembly Bill 394 (2008), “Safe Place to Learn Act;” Assembly Bill 9 (2011), “Seth’s Law,” amending Education Code §324; Assembly Bill 1156 (2011), “Tabitha’s Law,” amending Education Code Sections 32261, 32282, 32283, 46600 and 48900.
2. Relationship to Other Laws: This procedure applies only to bullying and intimidation. Other laws address related issues such as sexual harassment or discrimination, including: California Education Code §212.5, sexual harassment defined; California Penal Code §422.55, hate crimes defined; and Title 5, California Code of Regulations §4900, Prohibition of Discrimination in Public Schools.
3. The district will ensure its compliance with all laws regarding bullying, harassment and intimidation. Nothing in this procedure prevents a student, parent/guardian, school or district from taking action to remediate harassment or discrimination based on a person’s gender or membership in a legally protected class under local, state, or federal law.

3. GENERAL

1. Originating Office. Suggestions or questions concerning this procedure should be directed to the Student Services Office.
2. Definitions.

1. Bullying (as defined in AB 1156): Severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or by means of an electronic act, that has the effect of or can reasonably be predicted to have the effect of:

1. Placing a reasonable student in fear of harm to his or her person or property;
2. Causing a reasonable student to experience a substantially detrimental effect on his or her physical or mental health;
3. Causing a reasonable student to experience substantial interference with his or her academic performance; or
4. Causing a reasonable student to experience substantial interference with his or her ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.

2. Cyberbullying: Intentional mistreatment of others through the use of technology, such as computers, cell phones and other electronic devices. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Sending malicious, hurtful or threatening messages or images about another;
2. Posting sensitive, private information about another person for the purpose of hurting or embarrassing the person;
3. Pretending to be someone else in order to make that person look bad and/or to intentionally exclude someone from an online group.

3. Electronic Act: Transmission of a communication, including but not limited to, a message, text, sound, image or a post on a social network Internet website, or image by means of an electronic device, including but not limited to a telephone, wireless telephone or other wireless communication device, computer or pager.
4. Hostile Environment: A situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with intimidation, ridicule or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of a student’s education.
5. Intimidation: The unlawful act of intentionally coercing or frightening another to behave in a certain way against their will through force, fear or threats.
6. Reasonable Student: A student who exercises average care, skill, and judgment in conduct for a person of their age and/or their exceptional needs.
7. Retaliation: When an aggressor harasses, intimidates, or bullies a student who has reported incidents of bullying.

3. IMPLEMENTATION

1. Education, Dissemination, and Accountability.

1. Each school shall provide notice to students and staff of the district’s Bullying and Intimidation Prohibition Policy A- 3550 and this Administrative Procedure through:

1. Appropriate references in the student handbook, and
2. An annual assembly to discuss the policy and procedure with students and staff.

2. The district shall annually inform parents/guardians of its prohibition on bullying, harassment, and intimidation via the Facts for Parents publication/website.
3. The site principal/administrator of each school will publicize through the student handbook and annual assembly to students, staff, volunteers, visitors, and parents/guardians how a verbal or written report of bullying or intimidation may be filed and how this report will be handled.

2. Training.

1. Staff will receive annual training discussing the district’s policy and procedure related to bullying and intimidation; instructing staff of their roles and responsibilities, investigation requirements, and effective methods to prevent and/or cease bullying or intimidating behavior when it is observed.
2. The district will provide, at the request of the site principal/administrator, staff development training in bullying prevention and methods to cultivate acceptance and understanding in all students and staff, to build each school’s capacity to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment.
3. Teachers should discuss this policy with their students in age-appropriate ways and should assure them that they need not endure any form of bullying.
4. Students who bully are in violation of this policy and are subject to disciplinary action as provided for in the California Education Code.

2. Prevention Strategies. The district will implement a range of prevention strategies including individual, classroom, school, and district-level approaches.
3. Reports and Complaints. Any student, parent/guardian, third party or other individual or organization who believes that a student or student group has been subjected to bullying and/or intimidation, or who has witnessed such conduct, may report the conduct orally to any school employee or administrator, and/or file a formal written complaint utilizing the Bullying and Intimidation Complaint Form (Attachment 1).

1. Oral reports to any school employee or administrator.

1. A staff member who receives a report of bullying and/or intimidation, shall, within one school day or as soon as possible thereafter, report this to the site principal/administrator or designee. In addition, any school employee who observes any incident of bullying and/or intimidation involving a student shall, within one school day or as soon as possible thereafter, report this observation to the principal/designee; whether or not the victim makes a report.
2. Where an oral report is made of bullying and/or intimidation on the part of the site principal/administrator or designee to whom the report would ordinarily be communicated, the employee who receives the report or who observes the incident shall instead make the report to the Quality Assurance Office (QAO).
3. The site principal/administrator or designee (or Quality Assurance Office, pursuant to Section D.4.a.[2]) who receives an oral report of bullying and/or intimidation shall promptly inform the individual making the report of the resolution options under these procedures, including the right to file a written complaint utilizing the Bullying and Intimidation Complaint Form (Attachment 1). If a complainant is unable to put a complaint in writing due to conditions such as a disability or illiteracy, district staff shall assist him/her in filing of the complaint.

If the bullying or intimidation is on the basis of actual or perceived characteristics such as sex, sexual orientation, gender, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, race or ethnicity, religion, color, or mental or physical disability, gender expression, gender identity, nationality or age, or on the basis of a person’s association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics, in any program or activity conducted by the district, which is funded directly by, or that receives its benefits from any state financial assistance, the site principal/administrator or designee must advise the complainant of their right to file a Uniform Complaint in accordance with Administrative Procedure 1700.

4. If the site principal/administrator or designee or the Quality Assurance Office receives an anonymous complaint or media report about alleged bullying and/or intimidation, the site principal/administrator or designee or the Quality Assurance Office shall determine whether it is appropriate to pursue an investigation considering the specificity and reliability of the information, the seriousness of the alleged incident, and whether any individuals can be identified who were subjected to the alleged conduct.

2. Interim measures. After a report or complaint is made, the responsible site principal/administrator or designee shall determine whether interim measures are necessary to stop, prevent or address the effects of bullying and/or intimidation, including retaliation, harassment or bullying during and pending any informal resolution and/or investigation, such as placing students in separate classes or transferring a student to a class taught by a different teacher. Interim measures will be implemented in a manner that minimizes the burden on the individual who was the target of bullying and/or intimidation.
3. Optional mediation. In cases of student-to-student bullying and intimidation, when both the student who complained, and where appropriate, his/her parent/guardian, and the accused student and where appropriate, his or her parent/guardian so agrees, the site principal/administrator or designee may arrange for them to resolve the complaint informally with the help of a counselor, teacher or administrator (e.g., restorative practices may be utilized to bring together those involved in and affected by the incident to allow the perpetrator to accept responsibility, allow the victim to voice the impact of the bullying, provide a forum for rebuilding relationships, develop collaborative action plans, and respond to student needs in a safe and respectful environment with the assistance of a trained facilitator). The individual who is the subject of the complaint or his/her parent/guardian may not be asked or required to meet directly with the accused individual as part of the informal resolution process. All parties should be advised that they may file a formal complaint at any time during or after the informal process.

1. At the conclusion of ten school days or as soon as possible thereafter, the site principal/administrator or designee will document, utilizing the School Investigation Report Summary (Attachment 2) whether informal resolution has been attempted; and if so, whether it was successful in resolving the complaint to the satisfaction of the subject individual, and if appropriate, his/her parent/guardian. The site principal/administrator or designee shall notify the complainant in writing of the outcome of the informal resolution. A copy of the School Investigation Report Summary shall be forwarded to the Quality Assurance Office.

4. Formal Complaint.

1. Initiation of investigation. At each school, the site principal/administrator or designee shall initiate an impartial investigation of an allegation of bullying and/or intimidation within ten school days of receiving a formal complaint under this procedure, or as soon as possible thereafter, unless the site principal/administrator or designee has confirmed that the complaint has been resolved informally to the satisfaction of the subject individuals and where appropriate, his/her parent/guardian.
2. Initial interview with the subject of the complaint. At the beginning of an investigation, the site principal/administrator or designee or the Quality Assurance Office (if the complaint is related to the principal), shall discuss what actions are being sought in response to the complaint. The subject of the complaint shall have an opportunity to describe the incident, identify witnesses who may have relevant information and provide other evidence or information leading to evidence of the alleged conduct. A complainant’s refusal to provide the district’s investigator with documents or other evidence related to the allegations in the complaint, failure or refusal to cooperate in the investigation, or engagement in any other obstruction of the investigation may result in the dismissal of the complaint because of a lack of evidence to support the allegation.
3. If the subject of the complaint and/or his or her parent/guardian requests confidentiality, he or she shall be informed that such a request may limit the district’s ability to investigate or take other action. If the subject individual insists that his or her name not be revealed, the site principal/administrator or designee or the Quality Assurance Office (if the complaint is related to the principal), must take all reasonable steps to investigate and respond to the complaint consistent with the request.
4. Investigation process. The site principal/administrator or designee or Quality Assurance Office shall keep the complaint and allegation confidential, except as necessary to carry out the investigation or take other subsequent necessary action.

1. The site principal/administrator or designee (or Quality Assurance Office, pursuant to Section D.4.a.[2]) shall interview individuals who have information relevant to the investigation, including but not limited to, the subject of the complaint and, where appropriate, his or her parents/guardians, the person accused of bullying and/or intimidation, anyone who witnessed the reported conduct, and anyone mentioned as having relevant information. The site principal/administrator or designee or the Quality Assurance Office will also review any records, notes, or statements related to the complaint and make take other steps such as visiting the location where the conduct is alleged to have taken place.
2. When necessary to carry out his/her investigation or to protect student safety, and consistent with federal and state privacy laws, the site principal/administrator or designee or the Quality Assurance Office also may discuss the complaint with the Superintendent or designee, the parent/guardian of the accused individual if the accused individual is a student, a teacher or staff member whose knowledge of the students involved may help in determining the facts, law enforcement and/or Child Protective Services, and the district’s Legal Counsel or Risk Manager. Participation in an investigation does not alleviate any mandated reporter from making a mandated report as required by law.
3. Interviews of the alleged victim, alleged perpetrator, and all relevant witnesses should be conducted privately, separately, and kept confidential. At no time should the alleged perpetrator and victim be interviewed together. The Witness Declaration Form (Attachment 3) shall be used to document statements.
4. Interviews and other information gathered will be documented. Documentation of complaints and their resolution will be maintained in the site file for a minimum of two years.

5. Factors in reaching a determination. In reaching a decision about the complaint, the site principal/administrator or designee may take into account:

1. Statements made by the subject of the complaint, the individual accused, and other persons with knowledge relevant to the allegations.
2. The details and consistency of each person’s account.
3. Evidence of how the subject of the complaint reacted to the incident.
4. Evidence of any past instances of bullying and/or intimidation, or other misconduct by the accused individual.

6. To judge the severity of the bullying and/or intimidation where it is determined that bullying and/or intimidation has occurred, the site principal/administrator or designee may take into consideration:

1. How the misconduct affected the subject of the complaint.
2. The type, frequency and duration of the misconduct.
3. The age, race, gender/gender identity and/or disability of the subject of the complaint and the individual accused of the conduct, and the relationship between them.
4. The number of persons engaged in the alleged conduct.
5. The size of the school, location of the incidents, and context in which they occurred.
6. Other incidents of bullying and/or intimidation at the school.

5. Written report on findings and follow-up. Within 60 calendar days of receiving the complaint or as soon as possible thereafter, the site principal/administrator or designee (or the Quality Assurance Office, if investigating pursuant to Section D.4.a.[5]) shall conclude the investigation and prepare a written report of the findings as described below. This timeline may be extended for good cause. If an extension is needed, the site principal/administrator or designee or Quality Assurance Office shall notify the complainant and explain the reasons for the extension.

1. The district’s decision shall be in writing and sent to the complainant. The district’s decision shall be written in English, and, when required by Education Code §48985, or pursuant to federal law, the decision shall be translated into the complainant’s or parent/guardian’s primary language.
2. For all complaints, the decision shall include:

1. The findings of fact based on the evidence gathered.
2. As to each allegation, the district’s conclusion(s) as to whether bullying and/or intimidation has occurred.
3. Rationale for such conclusion(s).
4. Remedial actions, if any are warranted, that relate directly to the subject of the complaint; complainant or the law, including individual remedies offered or provided to the subject of the complaint, such as counseling, academic remedies or other measures, and systematic measures taken to eliminate any hostile environment and prevent the bullying and/or intimidation from recurring.
5. Notice that the complainant and/or, where appropriate, his/her parent/guardian should immediately report any reoccurrence of the conduct or retaliation to the principal/designee.
6. Notice of the complainant’s right to appeal the district’s decision within 15 calendar days to the Office of Youth Advocacy and procedures to be followed for initiating such an appeal.

6. Remedial action will be designed to end the bullying and/or intimidation conduct, prevent its recurrence and address its effects on the targeted student. Examples of appropriate action include:

1. Interventions for the individual who engaged in the bullying and/or intimidation, such as parent or supervisor notification, discipline, counseling or training.
2. Interventions for the targeted individual, such as counseling, academic support and information on how to report further incidents of bullying and/or intimidation.
3. Separating the targeted individual and the individual who engaged in the bullying and/or intimidation, provided the separation does not penalize the targeted student.
4. Follow-up inquiries with the targeted individual and witnesses to ensure that the bullying and/or intimidation conduct has stopped and that they have not experienced any retaliation.
5. Training or other intervention for the larger school community to ensure that students, staff and parents understand the types of behavior that constitute bullying and/or intimidation, that the district does not tolerate it, and how to report it.
6. In addition, the site principal/administrator or designee shall ensure that the individual who was the target of bullying and/or intimidation and where appropriate, his/her parent/guardian, are informed of the procedures for reporting any subsequent problems.

7. Disciplinary action.

1. Students who are found to have engaged in bullying and/or intimidation conduct may be subject to discipline pursuant to California Education Code. Disciplinary action may include oral warnings, written warnings, mandatory training, counseling, suspension, transfer or expulsion for students. Such disciplinary action shall be in accordance with district policy and state law. Suspension and recommendations for expulsion must follow applicable law.
2. Staff members who are found to have engaged in bullying and/or intimidation conduct toward students shall be subject to discipline. Disciplinary action may include oral warnings, written warnings, mandatory training, counseling, suspension, transfer, demotion, or termination of employees. Such disciplinary action shall be determined by site and district administration in accordance with applicable policies, laws, and/or collective bargaining agreements.
3. In identifying appropriate disciplinary action, repeated incidents and/or multiple victims will result in more severe penalties.
4. Disciplinary action taken shall not be reported to the complainant where doing so would violate the privacy rights of involved students or staff.

8. Appeals procedures.

1. Appeals to the Office of Youth Advocacy. If dissatisfied with the district’s decision under this procedure, the complainant may appeal in writing to the Office of Youth Advocacy.

1. The complainant shall file his or her appeal within 15 calendar days of receiving the district’s decision and the appeal shall specify the basis for the appeal of the decision and whether the facts are incorrect and/or district procedure has been misapplied. A response to the appeal will be provided within 60 calendar days of receipt.
2. Upon notification by the Office of Youth Advocacy that the complainant has appealed the district’s decision, the site principal/administrator or designee shall forward the following documents to the Office of Youth Advocacy:

1. A copy of the original complaint.
2. A copy of the decision.
3. A summary of the nature and extent of the investigation conducted by the district, if not covered by the decision.
4. A copy of the investigation file, including but not limited to all notes, interviews, and documents submitted by the parties and gathered by the investigator.
5. A report of any action taken to resolve the complaint.
6. A copy of the district’s Uniform Complaint procedures.
7. Other relevant information requested by the Office of Youth Advocacy.

9. Civil law remedies.

1. A complainant may pursue available civil law remedies outside of the district’s complaint procedures. Complainants may seek assistance from mediation centers or public/private interest attorneys. Civil law remedies that may be imposed by a court include, but are not limited to, injunctions and restraining orders.
2. Complaints alleging bullying and/or intimidation based on race, color, national origin, sex/gender, disability or age may also be filed with the US Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (www.ed.gov/ocr). Such complaints must generally be filed within 180 days of the alleged bullying and/or intimidation.

4. FORMS AND AUXILIARY REFERENCES

1. California Department of Education publication, Bullying at School (2003), available online at www.cde.ca.gov
2. Facts for Parents, available online at http://www.sandi.net/factsforparents
3. Bullying and Intimidation Complaint Form (Attachment 1)
4. School Investigation Report Summary (Attachment 2)
5. Witness Declaration Form (Attachment 3)

5. REPORTS AND RECORDS

1. The site principal/administrator or designee shall complete a School Investigation Report (Attachment 3). The report shall be maintained at the school site in accordance with student confidentiality laws. A copy of the report shall be forwarded to the Quality Assurance Office for issuance of a district tracking number and for district-wide data compilation and reporting purposes. A copy may also be provided to the appropriate Area Superintendent or department head.
2. Short term suspension records and information shall be maintained by each school.

OFF-LIMIT AREA/LUNCHTIME POLICY

In addition to the “closed campus” policy, students are not permitted to be in an off-limit area of campus during school hours, including lunch. Examples of off-limit areas include, but are not limited to parking lots, canyons, fields, etc. Also, in an effort to ensure a safe campus, unauthorized food deliveries are not permitted (from any delivery service including pizza places, Grub Hub, Uber Eats, etc.). Unauthorized food deliveries will be turned away or held in the office for a parent to pick up.

PARKING

Driving and parking on campus is a privilege granted to students by the school. All sections of the California Vehicle Code apply on school grounds, as do Municipal Codes. Students are asked to park in paved, “white” marked stalls only. All cars on campus must display a valid parking permit issued in the main office. Parking permits will be issued during the first weeks of school and throughout the school year. There is no charge for the initial parking permit. However, replacement permits cost $5. Additionally, all permits must be turned in at the end of the school year to avoid a $5 charge. Additionally, the parking lot is off limits to students during classes, between classes, and during lunchtime. Students found in the parking lot during these times, without permission, will be considered truant. Likewise, students who have an approved internship or “Assigned Time Home” must not loiter in the parking lot. Abuse of this privilege and/or failure to follow this process and procedure may result in a schedule change or removal from the school approved internship.

PASS POLICY/OUT OF CLASS

School staff makes it a point to be “out and about” during passing periods and students who are late to class will be stopped and required to surrender their ID card. Late students with poor attendance/tardy records must serve after-school detention on the same day as their tardy; students with good attendance/tardy records will have their ID card returned to them. Consequently, all tardy students who have had their ID card taken must report to the attendance office during lunch or immediately after school to either retrieve their ID card or to receive notification that they have been assigned after-school detention.

STUDENTS WHO DO NOT HAVE A VALID ID CARD (FOR THE CURRENT SCHOOL YEAR) IN THEIR POSSESSION ARE AUTOMATICALLY ASSIGNED DETENTION.

SKATEBOARDS

Students may carry skateboards around the campus but are not allowed to ride or set them on the ground for the purpose of standing, riding or sitting upon while on campus. Students found riding a board will have them taken from them and kept for the week until Friday after school.  Roller blades and razor type scooters are not to be brought to campus.

Students may carry skateboards around the campus but are not allowed to ride or set them on the ground for the purpose of standing, riding or sitting upon while on campus.  Roller blades and razor type scooters are not to be brought to campus.

SMOKING

The use and/or possession of tobacco or tobacco products is prohibited by State law and supported by District procedure. Students found smoking on the school grounds will have their parents contacted, be detained after school, and for subsequent offenses, face suspension from school and/or possible arrest. This rule applies during the school day, on school buses, and at school-sponsored activities.

STUDENT DRESS CODE AND ACCESSORIES

University City High School Dress Code Policy

The intent of any code of conduct is to ensure a positive teaching and learning environment for all students and staff. The code should provide enough flexibility to accommodate personal taste in order that teaching and learning continues to be the focus of the classrooms. Modesty and good taste should govern all school clothing selections.

Note: The majority of the policy outlined below was influenced by and emulates the Model School Dress Code created by Oregon NOW in 2016.

Our values are:

·        All students should be able to dress comfortably for school without fear of or actual unnecessary discipline or body shaming.

·        All students and staff should understand that they are responsible for managing their own personal "distractions" without regulating individual students' clothing/self-expression.

·        Teachers can focus on teaching without the additional and often uncomfortable burden of dress code enforcement.  

·        Students should not face unnecessary barriers to school attendance.

·        Reasons for conflict and inconsistent discipline should be minimized whenever

GOALS OF A STUDENT DRESS CODE:  A student dress code should accomplish several goals:  

·        Maintain a safe learning environment in classes where protective or supportive clothing is needed, such as chemistry/biology (eye or body protection), dance (bare feet, tights/leotards), or PE (athletic attire/shoes).

·        Allow students to wear clothing of their choice that is comfortable.

·        Allow students to wear clothing that expresses their self-identified gender.

·        Allow students to wear religious attire without fear of discipline or discrimination.

·        Prevent students from wearing clothing with offensive images or language, including profanity, hate speech, and pornography.

·        Prevent students from wearing clothing with images or language depicting or advocating violence or the use of alcohol or drugs.

·        Ensure that all students are treated equitably regardless of gender/gender identification, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, body type/size, religion, and personal style.

Basic Principle:

·        Certain body parts must be covered for all students

·        Clothes must be worn in a way such that genitals, buttocks, and nipples are covered with opaque material.

·        Cleavage should not have set coverage standards

All items listed in the “must wear” and “may wear” categories below must meet this basic principle.  

Students Must Wear:*

·        Shirt

·        Bottom: pants/sweatpants/shorts/skirt/dress/leggings

·        Shoes; activity-specific shoes requirements are permitted (for example for sports)  

* High-school courses that include attire as part of the curriculum (for example, professionalism, public speaking, and job readiness) may include assignment-specific dress, but should not focus on covering girls’ bodies or promoting culturally-specific attire.  

Students May Wear:

·        Hats, including religious headwear

·        Hoodie sweatshirts (over-head is allowed at teacher discretion)

·        Fitted pants, including leggings, yoga pants and “skinny jeans”

·        Midriff baring shirts

·        Pajamas

·        Ripped jeans, as long as underwear is not exposed.

·        Tank tops, including spaghetti straps, halter tops, and “tube” (strapless) tops

·        Athletic attire

·        Clothing with commercial or athletic logos provided they do not violate bullets below

Students Cannot Wear:

·        Violent language or images

·        Images or language depicting drugs or alcohol (or any illegal item or activity) or the use of same.  

·        Hate speech, profanity, pornography.

·        Images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class.

·        Visible underwear. Visible waistbands or straps on undergarments worn under other clothing are not a violation.

·        Bathing suits.

·        Helmets or headgear that obscures the face (except as a religious observance).  

DRESS CODE ENFORCEMENT

·        Teachers are expected to enforce dress code consistently.

·        Teachers will notify administrators, who will deal with violations during passing period or lunch. Students in violation will be given a pass to their next class if necessary.

·        Violators will receive an explanation of their violation and will be trained on the dress code.

·        Repeat violators will be subject to increased disciplinary action.

TEACHING ABOUT CONSENT + SEXUAL HARASSMENT: A STEP BEYOND DRESS CODE  

Schools have a role to play in setting clear anti-harassment policies and in teaching curricula that promote positive messages about consent-only sexual activity.

Consent: Schools should teach all students — and administrators and teachers — about consent (no means no) so there is a clear message that individual students are responsible for their own actions and that consent is a must before any sexual or other physical contact.  

Sexual Harassment: Schools should have clear and well publicized anti-sexual harassment policies for students and staff. Schools should educate students and staff to not engage in sexual harassment and to recognize what it is and how to address it.

TARDY POLICY (6-Week Period)

TARDY CONSEQUENCE

1. tardy        Teacher conference with student
2. tardies        Teacher counsels student and contacts parent
3. tardies        N in citizenship and teacher contacts parent, assigns classroom detention
4. tardies        Teacher refers student to Dean of Attendance Accountability who then telephones/contacts home and requests parent involvement or assistance. Citizenship grade is lowered to a “U” (for the 6-week grading period).
5. tardies        Teacher contacts the parent and sets up a conference to discuss ongoing attendance issues and possible interventions.
6. tardies        Referral to V.P. for disciplinary action.

NOTE: 12 or more accumulated tardies during the semester will result in a U for the semester.

Student may raise their citizenship grade by making up absences and tardies at Saturday Success School (CASSAS) and/or after school with the teacher. Each hour served clear one absence. Each tardy is 30 minutes.

The review of the number of tardies starts over at each 6-week grading period. Semester grade is the average of the three grading periods.

A student not complying with the above procedures may be suspended from school for defiance.

NOTE: 12 or more accumulated tardies during the semester will result in a “U” semester grade. A student not complying with the above procedures may be given Saturday School or suspended from school for defiance. The San Diego Unified School District considers any tardy of more than 30 minutes to be a truancy.  The review of the number of tardies starts over at each 6-week grading period.

TRUANCY POLICY

Truancy is defined as “absence form class without parental or school permission.” Any student late to class by more than 30 minutes will be considered truant. One (1) truancy during a six-week period will result in an “N.” More than one truancy from class during a six-week period will result in a “U.” This policy renews itself every six weeks and should affect students in the following manner:

• Assign detention: one hour per each hour of truancy.  Note: not attending detention without prior approval = double detention.
• Students who are truant for an entire school day will be assigned Saturday School.
• A single truancy to any class during a 6-week grading period will cause students to receive an “N” in citizenship in that class for the grading period.  Additional truancies will result in a “U.”
• Dean of Attendance Accountability alerted of habitual truancy problem: will counsel students, contact parents and assign Saturday School.
• Conferences with parents/students/counselors may follow.  Options will be discussed.

If a student is marked truant a teacher has the right to issue a zero for any test or assignment due on that day. A teacher is not required to review the material missed by a student who is truant.

YOUR RIGHTS AND DUE PROCESS OF LAW

All students are entitled to due process of law. This means there are certain procedures that school officials must follow prior to taking appropriate disciplinary action.

We hope students will never be in a situation where they need the protection of due process of law. If, however, a student does become involved in a situation in which a suspension or expulsion might result, both the student and his/her parents will be given a more detailed description of the due process procedures.  (Form PP-4/5.9.1, Student Suspension Notice)

In general…the school principal or the principal’s designee has the right to suspend a student for a period of up to five days. In cases of this type, the student: 1) has the right to hear the accusation, and 2) has the right to answer the charge(s). This is generally done with one of the vice principals.  If a suspension is necessary, it will become effective immediately.  Every attempt will be made to notify a parent/guardian.   A copy of the suspension notice will be mailed home.

Parents/guardians wishing to appeal a suspension may do so by first contacting the school principal and requesting a meeting.

In the event of an expulsion, the school will notify the student and parent(s)/guardian(s) of the recommendation. The student will be placed on suspension. The district office will notify the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the day, date, time, and location of the hearing as well as the charges against the student. A description of due process guarantees will be included in this mailing.

ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY

The Board of Education has approved the following Zero Tolerance Policy which will result in students being expelled who possess weapons, engage in repeated fights or acts of violence or are found in repeated possession of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco.

• A weapon is defined as a firearm, pistol replica, starter pistol, stun, BB or pellet gun, knife of any size or type, a dirk, dagger, razor, slingshot, any explosives or fireworks.
• Any object used in a dangerous manner will also be considered a weapon. Use or possession of a weapon will result in recommendation for expulsion.
• Repeated incidents of fighting, violent acts or causing serious injury to another person will result in a recommendation for expulsion under the Zero Tolerance Policy.
• If students are found to be selling or furnishing controlled/prohibited substances they will be recommended for expulsion on their first offense, except for tobacco violations: if students are found in possession of tobacco they will be recommended for expulsion on their fourth offense.
• In addition to discipline, if students are found to have violated the law, they may be arrested and taken to a juvenile detention facility.
• Expulsion from San Diego City Schools will result in the loss of students’ privileges to attend school or extracurricular activities.  Students may be placed in an alternative school or program.

The Zero Tolerance Policy is designed to make school a safe environment and to provide an appropriate learning environment for all students.  There can be no acceptable reason for violating these rules.

PROCESSES

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES

Why is School Attendance Important? (Two reasons!)

1. The staff members of UCHS are committed to the belief that attendance plays a major role in the overall development of each student. Daily attendance is identified as possibly the most essential requirement for every student. Success in school and in future academic goals can be achieved only by daily participation in class.

2. In addition, paying for teachers, staff, lights, and the building is contingent on students attending school. The school/district receives roughly $47 dollars per day for each student attending school. If a student misses school, whether for illness or for any other excuse, the school/district does not earn the $47 dollar allotment. Last year, while the attendance rate was better for the school (approximately 96%), the three percent loss was a loss to the school/district of over $609,120.

Attendance is the Student’s Responsibility:

What is not considered a reason for a cleared absence:

▪▪        Out of town family vacations, family reunions,     etc.

▪▪        Any personal appointment that can be scheduled for after school hours or on the weekend

If a student is to be absent from school, his/her parent or guardian is to CALL the ATTENDANCE OFFICE (858-457-3040) each day of the absence. Any absence, which has not been cleared within five days, will be recorded as unexcused. Upon a student’s third unexcused absence, student shall be classified as truant. If a student arrives after the school day has begun, he/she must report to the ATTENDANCE OFFICE for a pass to class. Missed bus, oversleeping, etc., with or without parent notification, will not be an excused tardy.  After twenty-five minutes the student will be considered truant.

San Diego Unified School District Permits schools to conduct a “Success School” (CASSAS) which allows students to make up missed instructional days and enables schools to recover lost revenue. By participating, your child will have the opportunity to receive academic support and make up lost assignments. Students must clear their attendance in order to participate in UC High school’s ASB dances, Prom, and graduation ceremony as explained in the student/parent handbook.

For each Saturday attended, the student will clear one day of absence, or six period absences or six tardies. Attendance codes:

“K”  Attended Success School (one full day)

“Y”  Cleared tardies ( 30 minutes)

“Q”  Cleared Period Absence (1 hour)

Blue Slip for Students Leaving School for an Appointment:

If a student is to be excused for a medical or personal appointment, his/her parent/guardian must call and verify the time the student is to be released. If a note is written, it must include the reason for leaving, the date and time, the parent signature and a PHONE NUMBER where the parent can be reached for verification. Release from class must be given to the attendance office before school starts on the day of, or days before the expected release day or time from school.

STUDENTS MUST COME TO THE ATTENDANCE OFFICE FOR A BLUE SLIP BEFORE LEAVING CAMPUS. STUDENTS LEAVING CAMPUS WITHOUT FIRST RECEIVING A BLUE SLIP WILL BE MARKED TRUANT AND

PARENTS CAN NOT EXCUSE THESE ABSENCES AFTER THE FACT. To maintain fewer interruptions to instruction, Blue Slips will not be delivered to class.

Students Leaving Town and Will Not be in School for 5 or More Days:

Contract of Independent Study (CIS)-Form needed for homework must be obtained one week before out of town trips are taken and is only needed for absences of 5 or more days. Absence will not be excused unless homework is completed and signed off by teachers.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS REGARDING ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES, PLEASE COME TO THE ATTENDANCE OFFICE.

BULLETINS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

A bulletin containing announcements of student activities and other student and staff information is published on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The bulletin will be posted in the Media Center, in the Counseling Center, the Attendance Office and on School News: https://uchs.sandiegounified.org/cms/One.aspx?portalId=27963904&pageId=27963915 It is the student’s responsibility to remain informed about the happenings on campus.  The bulletin affects your life at UCHS—BE INFORMED.

CLASS CHANGE POLICY

In order to balance class sizes and to avoid excessive changes, student programs, once reviewed and agreed upon during spring articulation, will not be changed except for obvious computer error or upon teacher review of student’s pre-requisites and skills. Parents must complete an administrative petition in order to drop or change a class after the first two weeks of each semester. A schedule change made after two weeks will only be made on an emergency basis. After the first grading period of each semester a drop from any class may result in a grade of “F” on the student’s permanent record.

FIRE AND DISASTER DRILLS

Fire and disaster drills are held at irregular intervals throughout the entire school year. Remember these basic rules when the warning sounds:

1. A school-wide option based response is indicated by a 20 second continuous bell. Students are to remain inside classrooms or immediately seek shelter or move to a safe location off campus.
2. Do not treat any alarm as a false alarm.
3. Check the instructions in each classroom indicating what procedure to follow.
4. In the event of an evacuation, move quickly and quietly to designated areas.
5. Students should remain a minimum of 50 feet from school buildings after being evacuated.
6. Follow the directions of any and all staff members.

In the event of an actual emergency, please refer to the last page in this HANDBOOK for parent communication and reunion and information.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE COURSES and Early and Late Start Status

Students who have an approved late start or early-out schedule need to arrive or leave campus at their designated time. Late arriving students need to be on campus 5 minutes before the start of their next scheduled class. Students with an early out need to be off campus by the end of the passing period. Student who have no community college class during the instructional day need to go to the library for that instructional period. Students during the instructional day are not permitted to leave campus or go to their cars. Students will be expected to present a sticker upon request showing their attendance location. Abuse of this privilege and/or failure to follow this process and procedure may result in a schedule change or removal from the community college class.

Academic:

HOME/SCHOOL  COMPACT

STUDENT COMMITMENTS

• I will attend school daily, on time, prepared, and ready to work and learn.
• I will understand what I am expected to learn, complete all assignments to the best of my ability, and get help when I need it.

Citizenship:

• I will follow school rules (including the site discipline code) and cooperated with adults and other students.
• I will respect the rights of others to learn and help to create a positive learning environment for everyone.
• I will follow teacher instructions and not be disruptive in class.
• I will not use profanity or make derogatory statements (“put-downs”).
• I will respect the property of the school, the community, and others.

Home:

• Everyday, I will spend time reading (including reading for fun), studying and completing homework.

TEACHER COMMITMENTS

Teaching and Learning:

• I will set high expectations for student learning and use a variety of teaching strategies to motivate and encourage all of my students.
• I will provide an enriching academic program based on standards.
• I will give my students timely feedback on their work.
• I will provide a safe and positive atmosphere for learning consistent with our site discipline plan.
• I will seek out additional resources, such as individual instruction, peer coaching/tutoring, etc., to meet my students’ special academic needs.
• I will advocate for my students’ non-academic needs.

School:

• I will help to create a welcoming environment for students, families, and community members.
• I will provide opportunities for parents to volunteer, observe, and/or participate in classroom activities.

• I will actively participate in site decision-making.

Home:

• I will communicate with the parents of my students through frequent reports on their child’s progress, and will notify parents of any concerns or problems in a timely manner.
• I will schedule parent-teacher conferences, return parent calls, and will be reasonably available to parents.
• I will suggest ways that parents can support their child’s learning at home, including the importance of reading daily with their child and limiting television viewing.

PARENT/GUARDIAN COMMITMENTS

School Support:

• I will ensure my child attends school daily, on time, prepared, and ready to work and learn.
• I will hold high expectations for my child and regularly monitor my child’s progress.
• I will know and support school/classroom rules and the site discipline and attendance plan.
• I will plan family vacations for times when school is not in session.

School Communication and Involvement:

• I will contact teachers/counselors about concerns or problems in a timely manner.
• I will attend a minimum of one parent-teacher conference a year.
• I will be available to teachers and will return teacher calls in a timely manner.
• I will participate and/or volunteer in classroom/school activities and encourage my child to do the same.
• I will expect to see a progress report come home with my child every 6 weeks and a report card mailed to my home at the end of each semester.
• I will monitor my student’s progress on PowerSchool Parent Portal.

Home Learning:

• I will provide a regular time, place, and supervision for homework completion.
• I will read to my child or ensure that my child reads daily just for pleasure.
• I will limit my child’s television viewing time and encourage positive uses of out-of-school time.

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR COMMITMENTS

Instructional Leadership:

• I will work to ensure a positive learning climate at the school and hold high expectations for student achievement.
• I will provide instructional leadership to inspire and encourage staff to learn and practice a variety of effective teaching strategies.
• I will ensure that a high quality curriculum that is in place at our school that addresses student needs and enables students to meet or exceed district standards.
• I will effectively utilize site and community resources to improve student achievement.
• I will foster a safe and positive learning environment with a consistent application of the site discipline plan.
• I will create a welcoming environment for students, families, and community members.

Communication:

• I will provide regular and direct communication regarding school and learning issues to students, families, and the community.

Stakeholder Involvement:

• I will ensure all stakeholders have the opportunity to be involved and represented in the site decision-making process.
• I will provide staff, parents, and community with ways to participate in training to support student learning and strengthen parent involvement.
• I will provide equitable opportunities for parents to receive appropriate training to support student learning and strengthen parent involvement.

DISTRICT COMMITMENTS

Student Learning:

• We will focus our efforts and provide equitable resources to raise student achievement.
• We will connect schools with integrated resources and services consistently across the district. If all stakeholders in the learning process have fulfilled their roles and responsibilities, and the child still does not successfully meet district standards, we will work collaboratively with the school and parent/guardian to identify, implement, and fund appropriate interventions beyond those previously provided by the site (personnel, referrals, and other services, etc.)

Home:

• We will promote parent involvement and training, and foster a climate of two-way communication between the district and the home.

Support for the Compact:

• We will consistently investigate, develop, and implement district wide policies relating to issues such as attendance, discipline and tardiness.

• We will support the commitments that the home and school make to each other as reflected in the compact.

SAN DIEGO CITYSCHOOLS/UNIVERSITY CITY HIGH SCHOOL

Network Use Guidelines/Student Contract

Please read the following carefully before signing the "Signature Page". This contract will give you information about the privileges and responsibilities of using the Internet and district networks as part of your student’s educational experience.

The district’s Sandi Net is an electronic network with access to the Internet. The Internet is an electronic highway connecting thousands of computers all over the world and millions of individual people. Reference: Administrative Procedure 4580

Students will have access to:

• Electronic mail (email) communication with people all over the world.
• Information, online databases and news from a variety of sources and research institutions.
• District provided software and public domain/shareware software of all types.
• Variety of web-based and software programs to publish content to the web.
• Collaborative web-based programs for the purpose of project based learning.
• Online courses and curriculum, academic software and electronic learning resources.

Responsibilities

San Diego Unified School District has taken reasonable precautions to restrict access to “harmful matter” and to materials that do not support approved educational objectives. “Harmful matter” refers to material that, taken as a whole by the average person applying contemporary statewide standards, describes in an offensive way material that lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for minors (Penal Code, Section 313). The teacher and staff will choose resources on the Internet that are appropriate for classroom instruction and/or research for the needs, maturity, and ability of their students. San Diego Unified School District takes no responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information from Internet sources. Use of any information obtained through the Internet is at the user’s risk.

Acceptable Use

The purpose for schools having access to Sandi Net and the Internet is to enhance teaching and learning by providing access to the 21st Century tools and resources as well as online Instruction. Use of another organization's data networks (e.g. Cell Phone Carriers) or computing resources must comply with rules of that network as well as District User policies.

Prohibited Uses

Transmission of any material in violation of any federal or state law, and district policy is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, the distribution of:

1. Bullying by using information and communication technologies (cyber-bullying);
2. Defamatory, inappropriate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive or illegal material;
3. Advertisements, solicitations, commercial ventures or political lobbing;
4. Information that encourages the use of controlled substances or the use of the system for the purpose of inciting crime;
5. Material that violates copyright laws. (District Procedure 7038)
6. Vandalism unauthorized access, "hacking", or tampering with hardware or software, including introducing "viruses" or pirated software, is strictly prohibited (Penal Code, Section 502).

Warning: Inappropriate use may result in the cancellation of network privileges. The site system administrator(s) or district security administrator may close an account at any time deemed necessary. Depending on the seriousness of the offense, any combination of the following policies/procedures will be enforced: Education Code, district procedures, and school site discipline/network use policy.

Privileges

The use of SanDiNet and the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. The administration, teachers, and/or staff may request the site system administrator or district security administrator to deny, revoke, or suspend specific user access.

Network Rules and Etiquette

The use of SanDiNet and the Internet requires that students abide by district rules of network use and etiquette. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Be Polite. Do not send abusive messages to anyone.
2. Use appropriate language. Do not swear, use vulgarities, or any other inappropriate language. Anything pertaining to illegal activities is strictly forbidden. Note: E-mail and web-based programs are not private and are subject to review by the district staff. People who operate the system have access to all mail. Messages relating to, or in support of, illegal activities must be reported to appropriate authorities.
3. Maintain privacy. Do not reveal the personal address, phone numbers, personal web sites or images of yourself or other persons. Before publishing a student's picture, first name, or work on the Internet, the school must have on file a parent release authorizing publication.
4. Cyber-bullying is considered harassment.  Refer to The Policy Against Harassment & Discrimination.
5. Respect copyrights. All communications and information accessible via the network are assumed to be the property of the author and should not be reused without his/her permission.
6. Do not disrupt the network.

Cyber-Bullying

Cyber bullying is the use of any electronic communication device to convey a message in any form (text, image, audio, or video) that intimidates, harasses, or is otherwise intended to harm, insult, or humiliate another in a deliberate, repeated, or hostile and unwanted manner. Staff and students will refrain from using personal communication devices or district property to cyber-bully one another. Cyber-bullying may include but is not limited to:  a. Spreading information or pictures to embarrass; b. Heated unequal argument online that includes making rude, insulting or vulgar remarks; c.

Isolating an individual from his or her peer group; d. Using someone else's screen name and pretending to be that person;

5. Forwarding information or pictures meant to be private.

Security

Security on any electronic system is a high priority. If you feel you can identify a security problem on SanDiNet, notify the district Educational Technology Department or the Information Technology Department either in person, in writing, or via the network. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to SanDiNet and the Internet.

Vandalism

Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.

University City High  School

Phone: (858)457.3040        6949 Genesee Avenue, San Diego, CA 92122        Fax: (858)457.4228

The prom will be chaperoned by our class/ASB advisors, school administrators, staff, teachers, and school police

PROM INFORMATION

Ticket Prices:

4/16 to 4/20 $60 w/ASB Card, $65 without ASB Card/Guests 4/23 to 5/4 $65 w/ASB Card, $70 without ASB Card/Guests 5/7 to 5/11 $70 w/ASB Card, $75 without ASB Card/Guests 5/14 to 5/17 $75 w/ASB Card, $80 without ASB    Card/Guests

Deadline to Submit Contract for Approval/Ticket Purchase: End of Lunch, Thursday, May 17th – No Refunds or Exchanges

The 2014 University City High School Senior Prom, “A Night in New Orleans”, will be held May 19, 2014, on the William D. Evans Sternwheeler that will depart from the Bahia Hotel, from 8pm to midnight. The address of the venue is 998 West Mission Bay Drive San Diego, CA 92109. Refreshments will include light hors d'oeuvres, desserts and beverages. Proper behavior is expected at all times of all attendees. Any violation of the provisions listed below will constitute grounds for non.admittance or dismissal from       the prom and may result in school disciplinary action. The rules that apply to UCHS students apply to guests as well. Students and guests must read these rules carefully, sign      the dance contract, and provide the information requested below. All dance contracts must be turned in to the UCHS Administration/Administrative Designee for review and signature. Upon review, contracts will be returned to students or will be available for pick.up on the following day. A completed dance contract is required in order to purchase      a dance ticket. Tickets will not be sold at the  door.

• You must arrive to the dance by 9:00pm; the boat will leave without you! Make sure your dinner and transportation arrangements fit this time schedule.
• The boat will cruise around the bay for two hours. Therefore, you are required to attend the dance until 11:30pm. There are NO EXCEPTIONS. Plan accordingly.
• You must wear proper attire at all times. Attire for the prom is formal. Gentlemen need to wear sports coat and slacks, suit, or a tux with a dress shirt and tie. Young ladies are to wear formal dresses or formal slacks. Students will not be permitted if they are wearing bare midriffs (no cutouts in dresses), skirts that are inappropriately short, t.shirts, shorts, or jeans. (See handout at purchase for more   detail)
• You must have a GPA of 2.0 or above, Citizenship of 2.0 or above, Good attendance, and NO   indebtedness.
• YOU MUST HAVE IN YOUR POSSESSION A UCHS IDENTIFICATION  CARD.
• GUESTS WHO DO NOT ATTEND UCHS MUST HAVE A PHOTO ID CARD THAT INCLUDES DATE OF   BIRTH.
• UCHS seniors may bring one UCHS underclassman or non.UCHS guest who must enter and leave with the UCHS student. The guest must be at least in 9th grade but    no older than 20 years of age on the date of the  event.
• All attendees are expected to dance appropriately (no freaking, no moshing, no grinding, etc.). The decision on propriety of dancing is at the discretion of the official dance supervisors.
• Due to heightened security, students and their possessions may be subject to search. Large bags will not be allowed.
• Students are to be picked up and/or leave the venue promptly at the end of the event (12   midnight).

Students are reminded that the best way to have fun is to go to Prom sober. Anyone under the influence or in possession of alcohol or illegal substances will be denied entrance to the dance. Anyone suspected of being under influence may also be subject to a breathalyzer and/or sobriety test. These students will be turned over to the school police officer and parents will be called. District policy calls for suspension from school and a 30 day suspension from all extracurricular events.

Please have photo ID card and cash or check (made out to UCHS) ready when purchasing. Checks will not be accepted after 4/30.

UCHS Admin/Designee Signature:____________________________________________        Library  Debt  Clearance (Stamp):

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS IN THE EVENT OF A CAMPUS EMERGENCY

For quick school updates in an emergency, students and parents are requested to follow Mr. Olivero on his twitter account: Jeff Olivero@MrOatUCHS

Students-

All students should follow directives from UCHS staff regarding where to go and how to proceed in the event of a campus emergency.

Parents-

All parents should wait for guidance from school officials or police/fire agencies in the event of an on-campus emergency. Should there be a lockdown, shelter-in-place or other emergency action required, all parents are requested to stand-by for further information from stated officials.

Should the school need to have parents pick up their student, a reunification center will be set up (by the stadium or upper field entrance) to provide access for reuniting students with their parents. Parents must have proper identification for reunification purposes. School officials will only release a student to the designated adult listed on the emergency card information.

Emergency Preparedness-

Please know UCHS has a Site Emergency Plan designed to orchestrate responsibilities in an emergency. Each SDUSD school has an emergency box that houses important information. Names of all students and their contacts, as well as that of all staff members, are kept in the emergency box. On the UCHS site, there are two emergency disaster kits with air horns, batteries, flashlights, walkie-talkies, medical supplies, etc.  Crates with water are also stored for emergency use.

UCHS staff members also understand that our students’ health and safety are our primary responsibility.  By law, all UCHS staff will remain on site and stay with students should an emergency declaration require short or long-term care for students.

Steps for Success (Earned Assigned Time Home)

Student Name_______________________________________________________________

Grade 12 students on track for graduation may be eligible for a shortened instructional day if they meet certain criteria and have an “Assigned Time Home” request signed by the parent/ guardian. The only period available is PERIOD ONE and Period SIX. (Period 6 will only be available for students who can verify a need to leave early because of a work conflict or a community college class conflict.)

All students need to be OFF CAMPUS during their Assigned Time Home.  When arriving at school, students need to WAIT BY THE FLAGPOLE AREA until the bell rings for Period 2.

Please know that not all students will be able to have Assigned Time Home as their courses are not offered other periods.

Period 1 “Assigned Time Home” must have the following:

- 3.50 Cumulative GPA (9 – 11th)

- Be on track for graduation and in good standing (earn 36 credits prior to 12th grade and have   strong

attendance/ citizenship marks)

- Is in the process of or has completed a Honors, AP, Community College Course or been enrolled to complete CCTE pathway.

Period 6 “ Assigned Time Home” students must have:

- 3.50 Cumulative GPA (9 – 11th)

- Be on track for graduation and in good standing (earn 36 credits prior to 12th grade and have   strong

attendance/ citizenship marks)

- Is in the process of or has completed a Honors, AP, Community College Course or been enrolled to complete CCTE pathway.

-Current Work permit on file or off campus community college confirmation with the registrar.

(The chart on the back aligns to some of the criteria expected for release for “Assigned Time Home”. Each senior will be responsible for providing the data to prove mastery of steps/criteria. The counselors can help provide some of the information).

_______________________________________        __________________________ PARENT GUARDIAN  SIGNATURE                DATE

_______________________________________        __________________________ STUDENT SIGNATURE                DATE

_______________________________________        __________________________ COUNSELOR  SIGNATURE                DATE

______________________________________        __________________________ ADMINISTRATOR SIGNATURE                DATE

Jeff Olivero

Principal University City High School

858.457.3040 x 201

jolivero@sandi.net

September 28, 2017

Dear Parent/Guardian of Students in UCHS’s Community College Classes;

This note is being sent home for confirmation regarding the plan for when and where your student needs to be on days and times their community college course is not meeting. In other words, to answer the question, “where are student to go when there isn’t class?”

Late Start Students (Period 1):

Please note that if the community college class is period 1 and they are not meeting for the day, students will be allowed to arrive late to school (5 minutes before the start of their period 2 class). Students should not be on campus before this. If a student is a bus rider, they are to sign in to the attendance office and go to the library for the entire remainder of the period. If the student is going to another teacher’s class, they need to write the name of the teacher on the sign in sheet in the attendance office and need to remain with that teacher the entire class period. Signing into the attendance office allows the school to know who is on campus and where should there be an emergency.

Early Out Students (Period 6):

Please note that if the community college class is period 6 and they are not meeting for the day, students are required to leave campus within 5 minutes, or sign in to the attendance office and go to the library for the entire period. If the student is going to another teacher’s class, they need to write the name of the teacher on the sign in sheet in the attendance office and need to remain with that teacher the entire class period. Signing into the attendance office allows the school to know who is on campus and where should there be an emergency.

Middle of the Day Students (Period 2-5):

Please note that if the community college class is schedule during the normal schools hours of periods 2 through 5, and the class is not meeting this day, students are required to sign in to the attendance office and go to the library the entire period. If the student is going to another teacher’s class, they need to write the name of the teacher on the sign in sheet in the attendance office and need to remain with that teacher the entire class period. Signing into the attendance office allows the school to know who is on campus and where should there be an emergency.

For all Community College Students:

Please know that the school takes the opportunity to have our students take community college classes seriously and respects their ability to get to where they need to be on a daily basis. That said, please note that students who can’t follow these guidelines will be removed from their community college course and will be forced to take an elective class, possibly causing their schedule to change to different periods with different teachers.

The most serious offense will be if students leave campus for any reason without administrative approval. For the student and the school, this simply can’t happen. Student safety and known whereabouts is key to be able to provide our student college options.

The signature from the student and parent acknowledges these expectations and an agreement to follow them:

Student Name (Print)                 Student Signature:          

College Class:                 Period:          

Parent Signature:          

APPENDIX A – UCHS Homework Calculation Index