MISSION STATEMENT

OUR MISSION IS TO ENSURE ALL STUDENTS WILL BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO RECEIVE AND ACCEPT A QUALITY EDUCATION THAT WILL ENABLE THEM TO SUCCEED IN AN EVER-EVOLVING WORLD.

MESSAGE

Dear Students,

Welcome to Sugar-Salem High School and the 2026–2027 school year!

We are excited to begin another year of learning, growth, and achievement with each of you. Whether you are returning or joining us for the first time, we are glad you are part of the Sugar-Salem High School community.

At Sugar-Salem High School, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment where every student is encouraged to reach their full potential. Our faculty and staff are dedicated to helping you succeed academically while also supporting your personal growth, character development, and preparation for life beyond high school. We encourage you to get involved, challenge yourself, and take advantage of the many opportunities available through academics, athletics, fine arts, clubs, and service.

This Student Handbook is an important resource designed to help you understand our school's policies, procedures, and expectations. We encourage you and your parents or guardians to review this handbook carefully and refer to it throughout the year whenever questions arise.

Your success is built through partnership. By working together we can create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We challenge each of you to set meaningful goals, embrace new opportunities, demonstrate kindness and respect, and take pride in representing Sugar-Salem High School.

We look forward to celebrating your accomplishments and supporting you throughout the year. Together, we will make the 2026–2027 school year one of learning, growth, and lasting memories.

Have a wonderful school year and Go Diggers!

Sincerely,

Karl Gehmlich
Principal

Jocelyn Hobbs
Assistant Principal

REGULAR WEEK SCHEDULES

Monday, Tuesday & Thursday — Regular Schedule (75 Minute Classes)

Period	Time
1	8:00 - 9:15
2	9:20 - 10:35
3	10:40 - 11:55
Lunch	11:55 - 12:20
4	12:25 - 1:40
5	1:45 - 3:00

Wednesday — Regular Intervention Schedule (62 Minute Classes)

Period	Time
Intervention	8:00 - 9:00
1	9:05 - 10:07
2	10:12 - 11:14
3	11:19 - 12:21
Lunch	12:21 - 12:46
4	12:51 - 1:53
5	1:58 - 3:00

Friday — Regular Schedule (63 Minute Classes)

Period	Time
1	8:00 - 9:03
2	9:08 - 10:11
3	10:16 - 11:19
Lunch	11:19 - 11:44
4	11:49 - 12:52
5	12:57 - 2:00

MODIFIED SCHEDULES

Monday, Tuesday & Thursday — 60 Minute Assembly Schedule

Period	Time
1	8:00 - 9:00
Assembly	9:05 - 10:15
2	10:20 - 11:20
3	11:25 - 12:25
Lunch	12:25 - 12:50
4	12:55 - 1:55
5	2:00 - 3:00

Wednesday — Intervention/PT Conference Schedule (50 Minute Classes)

Period	Time
Intervention	8:00 - 9:00
1	9:05 - 9:55
2	10:00 - 10:50
3	10:55 - 11:45
Lunch	11:45 - 12:10
4	12:15 - 1:05
5	1:10 - 2:00

Friday — 30 Minute Assembly Schedule (68 Minute Classes)

Period	Time
1	8:00 - 9:08
Assembly	9:13 - 9:43
2	9:48 - 10:56
3	11:01 - 12:09
Lunch	12:09 - 12:34
4	12:39 - 1:47
5	1:52 - 3:00

 

Mission Statement:

The mission of the Sugar-Salem High Schools counseling office is to offer all students services that support academic, career, and personal/social development. School counselors and advisors collaborate with students, teachers, administrators, parents/guardians, to prepare all students with the abilities to be a morally sound, self-sufficient individual as they transition into life after graduation.

Moment of Silence

In accordance with updated Idaho Code, all schools in our district will observe a daily 60-second minute of silence. During this time, students may sit quietly or engage in any non-disruptive, silent activity. As part of Idaho's daily minute of silence requirement, parents and guardians are asked to provide their children with guidance on how to choose to spend this daily reflection time. Please discuss this daily routine with your child so they feel prepared to use this minute meaningfully each morning.

Belief Statements & Guiding Principles:

1. All students learn differently; therefore, school counselors identify and deliver the necessary resources to provide students access to an equitable education.

2. School counselors develop students’ critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills in alignment with the three learning domains: Academic, Career, Personal/Social.

3. School counselors have a professional responsibility to advocate on behalf of ALL students.

4. Sugar-Salem High School believes schools, families, and community are partners in the education of ALL children.

5. Research-based interventions and strategies are applied on an individual, class-wide, and school-wide scale.

6. School counselors exercise ethical decision-making based on the best interest of the student’s well-being.

7. A School counselor functions in alignment with his or her national, state, and school’s academic/ethical standards.

8. School counselors collaborate with other stakeholders in the community to provide lists of outside counseling services.

Testing and Test Preparation

The counseling center provides preparation, administration and interpretation of the following tests.

• State Direct Writing Assessment

• A.C.T.--with pre-test instructional classes.

• A.S.V.A.B.--Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery

• Special Education and Individual Testing--as desired or prescribed.

• ISAT- Idaho State Achievement Test

• PSAT/NMSQT- Preliminary SAT

 

At Sugar-Salem High School students can be actively involved in many ways. Besides academic work and extra curricular activities, there are a number of organized clubs that students can affiliate with. We would encourage you to consider these clubs and join one or more of them to help make your high school experience more enjoyable. These clubs are extracurricular, and their meetings and functions take place outside of class time.

• Art

• Honor Society

• Industrial Technology

• Pep Band

• Drama

• Speech

• FFA

• FCCLA

• Debate

• BPA

• HALO Club

• ACA-DECCA

DEFINITIONS

1. Absent - Not being present in the classroom, more than 10 minutes late to class or leaving class more than 10 minutes early.

2. In Attendance means
   a. Being in class
   b. Attending a school sponsored program such as a field trip, special instructional clinic, or other type of planned educational activity.
   c. Attending an approved activity, tournament, or contest in which the student is selected through an elimination proceed and is a direct participant.
   d. Attending other types of educational activities that are pre-approved by the principal.

3. Tardy — Missing 0 – 10 minutes of class time at the beginning or at the end of a class period.

4. Attendance Review Board – Group of educators, including teachers, counselor, and administration of the school that the student attends, whose purpose is to review appeals from students who have missed more than six days. The Attendance Review Board will decide whether or not a student shall receive credit for that class or classes.

5. Truancy: any unverified absence or leaving school without following the proper check-in check-out procedure,

6. Exempt Absences: Exempt absences are those which do not count toward the six (6) allowed absences. Bereavement in the immediate family, subpoenas to appear in court or other court ordered attendance, and school sponsored activities are exempt. Students with exempt absences may still receive class credit if all work is made up.

7. Verified Absences – absences which are not exempt, but which have been verified by a parent or guardian. Students will forfeit credit in any class with more than six (6) verified absences or truancies. A parent or guardian must call within 24 hours of every absence. Unverified absences are treated as truancies with resulting consequences. With permission of the Attendance Review Board students may make up verified absences by attending Saturday school or fulfilling other pre-approved makeup work.

 

DENIAL OF ATTENDANCE (EXPULSION, SUSPENSION)

A student may be denied the right to attend school if any of the following apply:

1. membership in a secret society

2. being a carrier of a contagious and/or infectious disease

3. habitually truant

4. conduct which is continuously disruptive to school discipline

5. conduct which is disruptive to the instructional effectiveness of the school.

 

REQUIRED ATTENDANCE

Students may miss up to six days in any class without losing credit. Students missing more than six days may appeal to the school’s Attendance Review Board.

1. Upon the 4th absence from school/class, a letter will be sent to the student’s home, indicating the school policy and the number of days missed.

2. Upon the 6th absence, another letter will be sent, indicating the severity of the situation and explaining in detail consequences and alternatives.

3. Upon exceeding the 6th absence, the student will have credit withheld. If the student wishes to receive credit he or she, with parental accompaniment, must appear before the Attendance Review Board.

4. This Board will review the absence report to determine if the student will have credit withheld, which will occur unless extenuating circumstances surface.

5. Any decision to withhold credit can be appealed to the Superintendent and/or to the Board of Trustees.

6. If the appeal is not granted, one of the following will happen at the discretion of the Attendance Review Board. 1. The student will remain in that particular class for the remainder of the term; 2. He or she will be placed in a study hall, with no credit being granted for this class; 3. He or she will be excluded from school.

7. At the discretion of the Attendance Review Board the student may be excluded from all extra-curricular activities.

8. If the appeal is granted, the student will return to class with the Attendance Board’s stipulations. If the stipulations are violated, a loss of credit will result.

 

EXCUSES

All absences must be excused either through a written note or phone call within 24 hours following return to school; otherwise, the absence is classified as truant. Parents, guardians, doctors or other responsible persons should provide excuses for all students except married students or those of age 18 with a current signed parent consent form on file, who may speak for themselves.

 

MAKEUP WORK

It is the student’s responsibility to notify teachers prior to being absent. Teachers may require the work to be completed and turned in prior to departure. If not requested by a teacher, students will have the number of days absent, plus one, to make up work for each day missed.

10 tardies allowed before consequences are assigned.

Tardies	Consequence
11 – 12	one hour of detention
13 – 14	two hours of detention
15	one three-hour session of Saturday school
16	two three-hour sessions of Saturday school
17	one day of in-school suspension
18	two days of in-school suspension
19	three days of in-school suspension
20	three days out of school suspension
21	loss of credit in all classes that trimester

 

A student can not make up attendance and tardies or other disciplinary requirements concurrently.

PROPER CHECK-OUT/ CLOSED CAMPUS

Students may not leave campus during the school day without first checking out through the office. Students will not be allowed to leave school grounds between the hours of 11:30 A.M. – 1:30 P.M. The only exceptions will be doctor’s appt., appear in court, or if a parent chooses to come to the school and check his/her student out of school. Leaving campus without properly checking-out is considered a TRUANCY. The consequences associates with truancy are outlined in the discipline policy.

Students may not remain on campus once they have checked out through the office. Upon returning to school, students must check back in through the office.

Dress Policy

General Statement

Teachers and administrators at Sugar-Salem High School have the authority to exclude a student from class if the student's attire is not appropriate for the school environment. The responsibility for personal dress and appearance rests primarily with the student and their parent(s) or guardian(s). Student attire should promote a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment. This dress code policy also applies to school sponsored activities and extra-curricular events.

All clothing must be neat, clean, and appropriate for school. Students may be excluded from attending classes for wearing any of the following:

1. Clothing that advertises or promotes alcohol, tobacco, vaping products, or illegal drugs.

2. Clothing displaying obscene, suggestive, profane, or offensive images, messages, or language.

3. Clothing that depicts, promotes, or glorifies weapons (including firearms), violence, illegal activity, gang affiliation, or any content that is reasonably likely to disrupt the educational environment.

4. Shirts or tops that reveal the belly, whether standing or sitting normally.

5. Shirts or tops with low-cut necklines that reveal cleavage.

6. Tank tops with shoulder straps that are at least 2 inches wide. Tank tops with straps less than 2 inches wide and those who do not cover undergarment straps are not permitted. Tank tops may not be racerback, halter or muscle style and must cover the back.

7. Shorts with excessive holes or shorts that are shorter than mid-thigh.

8. Dresses or skirts that are shorter than mid-thigh.

9. Hair that is unclean or styled in a manner that obstructs the student's vision.

10. Students who are barefoot. Shoes must be worn at all times for health and safety reasons.

11. Sunglasses worn inside the building unless medically necessary.

12. Hats worn in a manner that obstructs the student's eyes or interferes with identification. Hats may be worn inside the building provided they do not cover the student's eyes. Teachers and administrators may require students to remove hats during class or at other times if the hat becomes a distraction, interferes with instruction, or is needed for safety or identification purposes.

13. Full face paint is not permitted during the school day or at school-sponsored extracurricular activities unless specifically approved by school administration for a school-sponsored event, performance, or spirit activity.

 

Dress Code Violations

The goal of the Sugar-Salem High School dress code is to maintain a safe, respectful, and distraction-free learning environment. Students are expected to comply with the dress code each school day.

First Violation: If a student is found to be in violation of the dress code, they will be asked to correct the issue immediately by one of the following methods:

• Changing into appropriate clothing that is available in their locker, vehicle, or PE locker.

• Borrowing appropriate clothing provided through the counseling office or school.

• Contacting a parent or guardian to bring appropriate clothing to school.

The student may return to class once the dress code violation has been corrected. The violation will be documented, and a parent or guardian may be notified.

Second Violation: A second dress code violation during the same school year will result in:

• The student contacting their parents or guardian.

• The student is required to change into appropriate clothing before returning to class. If appropriate clothing cannot be obtained in a reasonable amount of time, the student may be sent home for the remainder of the school day. The absence from class will be considered unexcused unless otherwise approved by administration.

• Documentation of the violation and parent notification.

 

Repeated or Refusal to Comply

Students who repeatedly violate the dress code or refuse to comply with staff directions may be subject to additional disciplinary action, which may include:

• Parent conference with school administration.

• Lunch detention or after-school detention.

• Loss of privileges, including participation in extracurricular activities until the violation is addressed.

• In-school suspension for repeated defiance or refusal to comply.

• Other disciplinary consequences consistent with the Sugar-Salem High School Student Handbook.

School administrators reserve the right to exercise discretion based on the nature of the violation, the student's disciplinary history, and the circumstances of each situation.

 

Personal Electronic Devices

Earbuds, headphones, and similar listening devices may not be worn in the ears during class or while traveling through the hallways during passing periods.

Teachers reserve the right to allow students to use their listening devices in the classroom as they see fit. Overall, students are expected to remove earbuds and put away electronic devices immediately when directed by any staff member.

 

Student Parking

We encourage students to ride the busses to and from school. There may be occasions when a student must bring a car to school. If you bring your car to school, we expect you to park it in the student parking lots which are on the south and east side of the building. No student cars are to be parked on the west side of the building or in the faculty parking areas. Students are not allowed to go to or be around their cars during the school day. The parking lot is considered “off limits” during school time and the lunch period.

 

Lockers

Lockers are the property of the school district. This allows the administration to inspect the lockers whenever they feel there is a need. Students are not to remove or tamper with lockers in any way. No offensive pictures or words are to be displayed in lockers. Displaying materials on the outside of lockers is prohibited. You are responsible for your locker. You will be accountable for all damage to your locker. If you have valuable items you must bring to school please check them in at the office for safe keeping.

 

Assemblies

Periodically during the year, assemblies of various kinds will be held. All assemblies have a purpose, and students are expected to behave appropriately and to pay attention. Assemblies are not a time to visit with friends. Please refrain from inappropriate behavior in assemblies such as whistling, yelling, booing, etc. All students are urged to attend assemblies. If for some reason you do not wish to attend an assembly, an optional room will be available. Students who do not attend an assembly must have studies to work on, remain until the assembly is over, and work individually. You must either be in the assembly or the optional room. You may not check out and go home during assemblies. They are considered a part of the school day and your attendance is required.

 

Classroom Rules

We expect you to show up on time—with appropriate learning materials to every class. Don’t ask to go to the restroom, get a drink, visit the office, make phone calls or leave class for any reason unless it is an emergency.

Late Assignments generally are not accepted. In rare cases will teachers allow late assignments to be handed in without some form of penalty. Check with your teachers about their policy on late work. If you have a problem you are expected to discuss the matter with your teacher ahead of time so that arrangements can be made to accept a late assignment.

 

Slug Rule

Once in class at Sugar-Salem High School, students are expected to have the necessary materials, do the work expected, and put forth the effort to get it done. We do not babysit non-producers at Sugar-Salem High School. Students who do not produce and just sit and waste time will be dealt with accordingly.

 

Cheating

Our staff expects all students to do their own work unless told that it is okay to work with others. Any kind of cheating (copying someone else’s work, borrowing answers or papers, writing answers on hands, etc.) is a big deal and will be dealt with accordingly. If you are caught cheating you will receive:

1. A “0” on that test, quiz, or assignment.

2. No further opportunities that trimester for earning extra points in the course.

3. Parents will be notified.

4. If cheating occurs again suspension and/or expulsion will result and the student will lose credit in one or all classes that trimester.

 

Computer and Internet Use

Students are responsible for good behavior on school computers just as they are in any other aspect of school life. Computers are provided as a privilege for students to conduct research and complete classroom assignments. Computer games are not allowed on school computers. Students may not download programs off the Internet or bring programs from home to download on school computers.

The school reserves the right to review files and communications without prior notice to maintain system integrity and ensure students are utilizing the network appropriately. Failure to comply with district and school rules will result in a loss of network access, disciplinary action, and possible referral to law enforcement agencies. Students are not allowed in the computer labs with out faculty or staff supervision.

 

In-School Suspension

When students are assigned in-school suspension, they are expected to show up on time, bring schoolwork and supplies necessary to do their assignments, and follow the directions of the suspension room supervisors. Students who don’t do what is expected of them will be reassigned in-school suspension until they can get it done right.

 

Detention

Detention is defined as a sixth period before school for one hour of supervised work or study. Students who are assigned detention need to show up on time with appropriate materials. Teachers may assign and conduct their own detention times.

The Sugar-Salem School District expects students who are provided with the opportunity to engage in District sponsored activities to be drug and alcohol free during their participation in these activities. Participants will demonstrate to the student body and community their willingness to be drug and alcohol free and their desire to be good representatives of Sugar-Salem High School.

Any student in grades 9-12 participating in interscholastic activities sponsored by the district and the IHSAA and/or any student whose participation in an extra-curricular activity requires that a student leave school grounds as a representative of the District may be required to be tested.

Students can be tested throughout the activity season in which he/she is participating. Each student will be responsible to complete the drug testing consent form prior to the beginning of the activity season.

Some examples of behaviors that can get you suspended or expelled from school include:

• Willful disobedience or refusing to obey a reasonable request by any adult on our staff.

• Disruptive conduct or fighting

• Vandalism to either public or private property

• Truancy or irregular attendance

• Vulgarity or profanity

• Possession or use of tobacco on campus

• Use of, sale of, possession of, or being under the influence of controlled substances, drugs, or alcoholic substances.

• Gambling, stealing, or extortion

• Carrying, possession or use of weapons or dangerous objects.

• Unauthorized use of car during school hours

• Failure to obtain necessary permission and properly checking out of school when leaving campus during school hours.

• Illegal entry

• Tampering with school reports/records.

• Repeated minor offenses

• Sexual harassment

• Throwing snowballs or other objects

• Unauthorized or illegal use of the Internet

• Cheating Dishonesty

• Slug Rule…not doing your assignments and just wasting yours and the teacher’s time.

• Misconduct on the School bus

 

Each one of these behaviors violate the rights of others and are not acceptable in our school. Those students who do these things will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Disciplinary action can include but is not limited to the following.

Step 1: First Major Infraction- The student will be assigned one hour of detention.

Step 2: Second Major Infraction- The student will be assigned two hours of detention.

Step 3: Third Major Infraction- The student will be assigned one Saturday session.

Step 4: Fourth Major Infraction- The student will be assigned two Saturday sessions.

Step 5: The student will be assigned 1 to 5 days of in-school suspension.

Step 6: The student will be recommended to the board of trustees for expulsion for up to three trimesters.

If a student is assigned to in-school suspension or suspended due to a major infraction, the student will be ineligible to participate in any extra-curricular activity for 7 days.

1. School dances are for Sugar-Salem students, alumni and guests. Once you enter a dance, you cannot leave unless you pay to get back into the dance. Our school’s dress code policy will be enforced at dances. Dances will be from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. Junior high students are not allowed to attend high school dances.

2. Hats should never be worn in public buildings; therefore, we expect you to remove your hat when you enter the school building and keep it off until after you leave.

3. Students, staff and visitors have been embarrassed and offended, in the past, by inappropriate conduct between members of the opposite sex on our school campus. Please restrict all conduct to hand holding.

4. After school is out for the day, be sure to get coats, books, etc. out of your locker and take them with you. The custodians will lock the doors at 4 p.m. daily.

5. No one is to be in the building after 4 p.m. without being part of a sanctioned activity with an adult supervisor present. No one is to be in the building after 10 p.m.

6. Never leave anything of value in your locker or around the building. Keep it with you or check it in at the office.

7. Food and drink are allowed in the commons only. Please do not take these items into the halls and classrooms.

8. The gym is for P.E. classes and approved activities. Please be sure to wear appropriate shoes on the gym floor.

9. Students are expected to abide by the District School Bus Code of Conduct for all activities involving school bus transportation. Violators will receive appropriate disciplinary action.

10. The school lunch program here at Sugar-Salem High School is one of the finest in the area, and lunches are provided at a very reasonable price. If you wish to participate in the lunch program, you are expected to conduct yourself in a manner considered appropriate for a formal restaurant. Please be obedient to the cooks and school lunch personnel. If you should happen to make messes, please clean up after yourself and be considerate of others who are eating in the lunchroom. REMEMBER, EATING SCHOOL LUNCH IS A PRIVILEGE AND THAT PRIVILEGE CAN BE DENIED IF IT IS MISUSED. Students will not be allowed to charge more than $5.00 in the school lunch program.

11. Students are given the opportunity to sign up for release time, or Seminary. Students must have “release time” permission slips filled out and honor their commitment to attend release time. If this privilege is revoked by the Seminary staff, the student will face disciplinary action from the school. Students must be inside the Seminary building when the tardy bell rings.

12. Students who are under in-school suspension may not attend or participate in school activities for that day, and they may not participate in extracurricular activities for the next 7 days after their suspension. See the district policy section 8.7 for further details.

Carrying a cell phone at school or on school grounds is not an individual right. It is a privilege granted to you by the school district. If you are in violation of any school rules pertaining to cell phone use you may lose this privilege. Students must adhere to the policies set by the classroom teacher. Failure to adhere to classroom policies or inappropriate cell phone use may result in the confiscation of the phone.

Sugar-Salem School District #322 recognizes the value and importance of electronic communication, online presence, and innovative technology tools to enhance the learning experience and work environment within the District. However, student use of personal electronic communication devices during school hours may interfere with or disrupt the educational process.

Having a device at school is a privilege not a right. Students are responsible for safeguarding devices they bring to school. The District shall not be responsible for loss, theft, damages, or destruction of student owned devices brought onto school property.

Sugar-Salem High School has adopted the following cell phone policy in an effort to:

• Promote student safety.

• Support staff in maintaining an environment that encourages learning.

• Reduce distractions in the learning environment.

• Improve academic focus.

• Promote responsible technology use.

• Strive to alleviate cyberbullying.

• Mitigate the privacy concerns posed by personal electronic devices; and

• Increase student interactions with peers,

• Promotion of social interaction; encouraging face-to-face interactions

 

This policy shall apply to any personal electronic device not issued by the District that is capable of accessing the internet, sending an electronic message, images, and photos to another device, such as, but not limited to smart phones, other cell phones, tablets, laptops, gaming devices, e-readers, and smart watches.

 

Restrictions on Location and Time of Use

Students are prohibited from using cell phones in the following locations and times:

1. During Class Time.

2. During passing periods.

3. Fieldtrips.

4. In bathrooms, locker rooms, or changing rooms.

5. Any other location/activity as outlined by school administration.

 

Permissions on Location and Time of Use

Students are permitted to use cell phones in the following locations and times:

1. Before and after school hours.

2. At school activities outside of school hours.

3. During the students designated lunch break.

 

IEP and 504 Plans

Any use of a personal electronic device required by a student’s 504 Plan or Individualized Education Plan (IEP) shall be permitted. The case manager of the IEP or 504 Plan will communicate applicable accommodations to teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrators. The accommodations of the IEP or 504 Plan will be determined by the team.

 

Emergencies

Students may use a personal electronic device in the case of an emergency to contact help. In this policy, an emergency is defined as an event that poses an immediate threat to the health or safety of any person or a risk of damage to property. If a student needs to use a personal electronic device in such an emergency, they should ensure they are in as safe a location as is feasible.

If a student’s parent/guardian or their designee needs to contact a student in the case of an emergency at a time when student cell phone use is not permitted, the parent/guardian or designee shall call the school office and ask staff to relay the message or bring the student to the office to speak with the parent/guardian or designee by phone or in-person.

 

Containment of Devices

When use of personal electronic devices is not permitted, such devices must be stored in:

• The student’s locker.

• The student’s bag, purse, or pocket and out of sight.

• A location in the classroom may be designated by the teacher; or

• A location in the school may be designated by the principal.

The district will use reasonable care to safeguard confiscated devices by designating a secure storage area, but does not assume liability in the event such confiscated device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Students are responsible for safeguarding devices they bring to school. The District shall not be responsible for loss, theft, damages, or destruction of student owned devices brought onto school property. Again, cell phones at school are a privilege, not a right.

 

Use of Devices

Any use of personal electronic devices at school or at school events shall comply with policy 3270 Technology Acceptable Use of electronic devices shall not be used in a manner that disrupts the educational process, including, but not limited to, posing a threat to academic integrity or violating confidentiality or privacy rights of another individual.

Students may only access the internet through the filtered District connection, regardless of whether they are using their personal device or a District-issued device. District staff will not provide software or technical assistance for student-owned devices.

Where students are allowed to use electronic devices, they are required to obtain permission before taking a photograph or video of any individual. Students must also obtain permission from any individual appearing in a photograph or video prior to posting on any social networking site or other internet site.

Students found to be using any electronic communications device in any way send or receive personal messages, data, or information that would contribute to or constitute cheating on any student assessment, project, or assignment shall be subject to discipline.

 

Disciplinary Action

Students violating the provisions of this policy are subject to disciplinary action, which may include losing the privilege of bringing the device onto school property and/or confiscation of the device until it is retrieved by the student’s parent/guardian. If a student or a parent/guardian wishes to appeal disciplinary action, they can do so by submitting a written request for appeal to the building principal within 2 school days. If the decision being appealed was made by the building principal, an appeal may be made to the Superintendent.

First Offense:

The phone will be confiscated, and the student may pick up the phone in the office after school.

Second Offense:

The phone will be confiscated, and the parent/guardian will pick up the phone in the office during regular school hours.

Third Offense or subsequent offenses:

The phone will be confiscated, and the parent/guardian will pick up the phone in the office during regular school hours. The principal may impose punitive consequences that coincide with the building discipline policy.

 

School Network

The Sugar-Salem School District is pleased to offer access to a computer network for electronic information services. We strongly believe in the educational value of electronic services and recognize the potential to support curriculum and learning by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. The Sugar-Salem School District will make every effort to protect students and staff from any misuses or abuses as a result of their experience with an information service.

1. Network login accounts shall be used only by the authorized owner of the account. No attempt to gain unauthorized access to accounts is permitted. Passwords must be kept private.

2. Never send, or encourage others to send, messages that are impolite or inappropriate. When online, staff and students are representatives of the district and as such must always act in a positive and appropriate manner. Use of vulgarities or any other inappropriate language is unacceptable.

3. Do not send any message that includes personal information, such as home address or phone number, for yourself or any other person without complete knowledge of the requesting entity. Report to your administrator any entity who asks for personal information that you do not know. Do not read other people’s mail or trespass into other people’s files.

4. The District makes no guarantees of any kind about the accuracy of information found online. Transmission of any material in violation of any law is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by trade secrets.

5. The introduction or use of copy written material on district machines without the consent approval of rightful parties is expressly forbidden. This includes, but is not limited to, software from home, videos, downloaded applications, music, software from others even when given the disc, etc.

6. Do not damage or attempt to gain unauthorized access to any school computer system (hardware or software). Never move, delete, modify, or damage any application or files that are not yours.

7. The person/persons found intentionally altering or modifying the security and monitoring systems may be subject to legal action and also held accountable for incurred costs. All students will be provided with a laptop computer through the technology department. Students are not allowed to use personal computers at school.

8. Do not install applications onto any district computer without the permission of the Technology Department. This includes pirated software, home software, illegal music. It is more efficient, and less problematic, for those with proper permission to install programs on the school computers.

9. It is forbidden to submit, display, publish, or access questionable materials that may be considered locally unacceptable. These include, but are not limited to, obscenity, profanity, or any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, threatening, racially offensive, sexually oriented, or illegal materials.

10. The District makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. The District will not be responsible for any damages or charges you suffer while on this system.

11. The administrators or network administrator may determine other behavior to be inappropriate and may make specific requests without prior notice.

12. Violation of this policy may incur consequences up to and including:

a. suspension from school or work.

b. revocation of passwords and user accounts and ban from using computer or network equipment.

c. Revocation of teaching certificate in the state of Idaho.

d. Notification of law enforcement authorities for possible civil or criminal penalties.

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination and is prohibited in the District. An employee, District agent, or student engages in sexual harassment whenever he/she makes unwelcome advances, requests sexual favors, or engages in other verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual or sex-based nature, imposed on the basis of sex, that:

I. denies or limits the provision of educational aid, benefits, services, opportunities, or treatment, or that makes such conduct a condition of a student’s academic status; or

II. has the purpose or effect of:

1. substantially interfering with the student’s educational environment;

2. creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment;

3. depriving a student of educational aid, benefits, services, opportunities or treatment; or

4. making submission to or rejection of such unwelcome conduct the basis for academic decisions affecting a student.

The terms “intimidating”, “hostile” and “offensive” include conduct which has the effect of humiliation, embarrassment, or discomfort. Examples of sexual harassment include, but are not limited to, unwelcome touching, crude jokes or pictures, discussions of sexual experiences, pressure for sexual activity, intimidation by words, actions, insults or name calling, teasing related to sexual characteristics, and spreading rumors related to a person’s alleged sexual activities.

Students who believe that they may have been sexually harassed or intimidated should contact a counselor, teacher, or administrator who will assist them in the complaint process. Supervisors or teachers who knowingly condone, or fail to report or assist a student to take action to remediate such behavior of sexual harassment or intimidation, may themselves be subject to discipline.

Any District employee who is determined, after an investigation, to have engaged in sexual harassment will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including discharge. Any student of the District who is determined, after an investigation, to have engaged in sexual harassment will be subject to disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, suspension and expulsion consistent with the discipline policy. Any person knowingly making a false accusation regarding sexual harassment will likewise be subject to disciplinary action up to and including discharge with regard to employees, or suspension and expulsion with regard to students.

The District will make every effort to insure that employees or students accused of sexual harassment or intimidation are given an appropriate opportunity to defend themselves against such accusations.

To the greatest extent possible, complaints will be treated in a confidential manner. Limited disclosure may be necessary in order to complete a thorough investigation. Retaliation against persons who file a complaint is a violation of law prohibiting discrimination, and will lead to disciplinary action against the offender.

Building administrators shall insure that student handbooks include this policy as well as the name, address, and telephone number of the individual responsible for coordinating the school’s compliance efforts.

An individual with a complaint alleging a violation of this policy shall follow the Uniform Grievance Procedure.

Cross Reference: 3210 Uniform Grievance Procedure

The Board recognizes that the misuse of drugs is a serious problem with legal, physical and social implications for the entire school community. As the educational institution of this community, the schools should strive to prevent drug abuse and help drug abusers by educational means where possible.

For purposes of this policy, “Drugs” shall mean:

A. all dangerous controlled substances as so designated and prohibited by Idaho law;

B. all chemicals which release toxic vapors;

C. all alcoholic beverages;

D. any prescription or patent drug, except those for which permission to use in school has been granted pursuant to Board policy;

E. “look-alikes”;

F. anabolic steroids;

G. any other illegal substances so designated and prohibited by law.

In accordance with Federal law, the Board hereby establishes a “Drug-Free School Zone” that extends 1000 feet from the boundary of any school property. The Board prohibits the use, possession, concealment, delivery, or distribution of any drug or any drug-related paraphernalia at any time on District property, within the Drug-Free School Zone, or at any district-related event. Furthermore, the Superintendent shall take the necessary steps to ensure that an individual eighteen (18) years of age or older who knowingly delivers or distributes controlled substances so designated and prohibited by Idaho law within the Drug-Free School Zone to another person is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

The superintendent shall prepare guidelines for the identification and regulation of drug use in the schools. Such guidelines shall emphasize the prevention of drug use and include a statement to students that use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession of alcohol is harmful. The student handbook shall provide standards of conduct that are applicable to all students which clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students on school premises or as a part of any school activity.

Sanctions for violation of this or any other policy which addresses illegal drug and alcohol possession, use or distribution may include, together with punitive action, voluntary referral to appropriate persons or agencies for screening and assessment.

The following rules shall apply to any searches and the seizure of any property by school personnel:

1. The Superintendent, principal, and the authorized assistants of either shall be authorized to conduct any searches or to seize property on or near school premises, as further provided in this procedure.

2. If the administrator has reasonable suspicion to believe that any locker, car or other container of any kind on school premises contains any item or substance which constitutes an imminent danger to the health and safety of any person or to the property of any person or the District, the administrator is authorized to conduct a search of any car or container and to seize any such item or substance.

3. The administrator may perform random searches of any locker, car or container of any kind on school premises without notice or consent.

4. If the authorized administrator has any reasonable suspicion to believe that any student, staff member, or visitor has any item or substance in his/her possession, which constitutes an imminent danger to the property of any person or the District, the administrator is authorized to conduct a search of any car, container, or person and to seize any such item or substance.

5. No person shall hinder, obstruct or prevent any search authorized by this procedure.

6. Whenever circumstances allow, any search or seizure authorized in this procedure shall be conducted in the presence of at least one (1) adult witness, and a written record of the time, date and results shall be made by the administrator. A copy shall be forwarded to the Superintendent as soon as possible.

7. In the case of search of a person care will be taken to not violate that person’s private or intimate body parts. The person being searched may be asked to empty pockets on any clothing item.

8. In any instance where an item or substance is found which would appear to be in violation of the law, the circumstance shall be reported promptly to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

9. In any situation where the administrator is in doubt as to the propriety of proceeding with any search or seizure, the administrator is authorized to report to and comply with the directions of any public law enforcement agency.

Rationale:

The ideal of sportsmanship permeates virtually every aspect of our culture. The ethic of fair play may be witnessed in all facets of life.

The ideal of sportsmanship has often been relegated to a secondary role, however, need exists to again make this role primary, and to restore placement of interscholastic activities in an educational perspective.

Everyone associated with an athletic event including coaches, athletes, officials, cheerleaders, spectators, and school administration play an important role in seeing that standards of sportsmanship are upheld before, during, and after a contest is played.

Be it resolved that the Sugar Salem School District defines sportsmanship as those qualities of behavior which are characterized by generosity and genuine concern for others.

 

The Spectator

1. Gains an understanding and appreciation for the rules of the contest.

2. Exercises self-control and displays good judgment in every action.

3. Appreciates a good play, no matter who makes it.

4. Never negatively addresses a player or official.

The Player

1. Never forgets that they represent their school.

2. Respects officials and accepts their decisions without question.

3. Wins without boasting, loses without excuses, and never quits.

4. Lives clean and plays hard. Plays for the love of the game.

The Coach

1. Inspires in athletes a love for the game and the desire to win.

2. Teaches them that it is better to lose fairly than to win unfairly.

3. Leads players and spectators to respect officials by setting a good example.

4. Demonstrates the principles of integrity and dignity of the sport at all times.

 

In order to promote and recognize sportsmanship, the Sugar Salem School District supports the state effort sponsored by the Idaho High School Activities Association to encourage sportsmanship.