District 204 Regulations

Activities - After-School - No student organization is allowed in the school after 3:15 p.m. or on weekends unless a facility usage form has been submitted and approved. Sponsors must be present at any activity.

Activities - Evening - Activities sponsored by various organizations, which are primarily for the enjoyment of students, must be over by 11:00 p.m. on weekends, and 10:00 p.m. on school nights. Admission must be accompanied by a school ID. Students are expected to remain at the activity until they are ready to leave. Re-admission will not be allowed to students who leave and want to return. Students must leave the school premises within 15 minutes of the end of the activity.

Activities - Dances, Concerts, or Other Social Events - Dances or concerts must be scheduled through the Student Council. The sponsoring organization must check with the assistant principal for support operations for a tentative date. The final date will not be approved until after the following are completed:

• Student Council approval;
• Completed dance/concert chaperone form submitted to the assistant principal; and
• Student Council clears the date with the assistant principal.

Guest procedures: students requesting to bring a guest who is not a current student at the school hosting the dance must complete and return a Guest Request Form for approval. The minimum grade level for all guests is the ninth grade and the maximum age is 20. School administration reserves the right to deny entrance to any student or guest.

Freshman students arriving at school before 7:10 a.m. and upperclassmen arriving before 8:10 a.m. must report to the cafeteria. The only students who will be allowed into the main building before those indicated times are students with conference slips or passes to use the library and others with official business who report to the principal’s office for a pass.

At Central campus, the primary student drop-off and pick up is Eastern Avenue (west side of building). Students who must leave and/or return prior to the end of school (appointments, ill, etc.) must be picked up/dropped off at the Main Entrance.

At West campus, students should be dropped off and picked up only by the north gymnasium area. Dropping off students in the front of the building in the faculty parking lot and maintenance areas is prohibited.

Assembly programs are scheduled at various times during the school year and are mandatory for all students. Since assemblies are held during class time, a sincere effort is made to select programs that are educational as well as entertaining.

Announcements will be made indicating when and where the assembly will be held. Students are expected to behave courteously. Only infants (accompanied by student or parent) from parenting, childcare classes, or the childcare center may be brought to an assembly.

Regular attendance is essential for academic success. The state laws of Illinois are very specific concerning the matter of pupil attendance in public schools. It is assumed that students will always be in school except for cases of illness or serious family crisis. The following provisions have been made to govern attendance policy (School Board Policy 7:70):

If a student is absent or tardy to school, the parent or guardian must telephone the dean’s office the same day stating the reason for the student’s absence or tardiness (24-hour voice mail is available).

• Central/AVAC/Transition Center Attendance Office - 815-727-6801
• West Attendance Office - 815-727-6900
• Pathways Attendance Office - 815-727-6810
• Failure to contact the dean’s office by telephone on the day of non-attendance may result in an unexcused absence or tardy. The absence may also be considered truancy unless there is parental contact. In any case, parents are requested to call when they receive a truancy notice. At no time are students to leave the school campus while school is in session. No student may leave school before the regular day ends unless excused by the dean, scheduled for early release, or sent home by the health service. Any other early departures will be listed as truancy and will be treated as unexcused absences.
• In order for an absence to be considered excused, the student’s parent/guardian must call the campus attendance telephone number to report the absence. Acceptable reasons for excused absences will include but may not be limited to:
  • Illness;
  • Death in the immediate family;
  • Family emergency;
  • Pre-arranged family vacation; and
  • Pre-arranged college visits 
• Unexcused absences/tardies will include, but may not be limited to:
  • Habitual car trouble;
  • No transportation;
  • Court/traffic ticket;
  • Oversleeping;
  • Truancy;
  • No parent call on absence;
  • Ditch days; and
  • Arriving tardy to the first period class without a proper pass.

Excessive Absence (Full Day)

• A student will be limited to a total of ten (10) absences (excused or unexcused) per semester. When parents notify the campus prior to or on the same day of the absence, the student will be counted as excused.
• On the tenth absence there will be a review of the student’s status. Unless there are extenuating circumstances, when a student accumulates eleven (11) full day absences (excused or unexcused), the student may be either dropped from the attendance roll or transferred to another District program. School personnel will review the absences prior to the student being dropped or transferred to another program. Absences due to in-school suspensions, out-of-school suspensions and doctor or health care provider verified medical excuses for absences due to chronic illness will not be applied toward the 10-day absence count.
• Medical documentation will be required to excuse extended absences of more than three (3) consecutive days or more than six (6) non-consecutive days per semester. The medical documentation must be submitted the day the student returns to school.
•  Parents are encouraged to keep track of their student’s absences. It is suggested that days out of school (excused or unexcused) are marked on a calendar at home. Teachers, deans, counselors and other school personnel will make every effort to keep parents informed of a student’s absences.
• The District may deny enrollment to a student 18 years of age or older for one semester for failure to meet minimum academic or attendance standards, in accordance with applicable laws and State Board regulations.
•  Absences including excused, unexcused, and special absences will be part of the ten-day total absences per semester. Extenuating circumstances may be reviewed by school personnel.

• College Visitation Days - Juniors and seniors may use up to three (3) college visit days and must meet the following provisions:
  •  A parent phone call is necessary;
  • A college adviser or counselor must verify the visit in writing. College printed material will not be accepted. These rules apply to all colleges or universities except for Joliet Junior College. Students are allowed only 1/2 day to visit JJC and must follow the above steps.
• Court Appearances - Family court visits to solve family problems or summonses to serve as a witness are generally excused. A summons for personal violations of the law will be judged on its individual merits to be excused or unexcused.
• Family Vacation - A written request, approximately two weeks before the specified date of absence, and a parent telephone call are necessary. Failure to observe this rule will result in an unexcused absence.
• Inclement Weather Procedures - When school must be closed due to an emergency, an announcement will be sent via the District School Messenger phone system, radio/television stations through the Emergency Closing Center (www.emergencyclosings.com), and local radio stations WJOL (1340AM), WSSR (96.7FM), WCCQ (98.3FM), and WRXQ (100.7FM). Parents and students may assume that school is open unless they hear a closure announcement on the radio. Parents and students are requested to listen to the radio rather than telephone the school. To the extent practical, school closures will be posted on Social Media and the District website: www.jths.org.
• Medical and Dental Appointments - Medical and dental appointments should be limited to times when school is not in session. If it becomes necessary for a student to be absent for a medical or dental appointment, pre- arranged notice must be given to the dean. In such situations, the parent must call the dean before the day of the appointment. A student will not be excused to provide transportation for another student. All-day doctor/dentist appointments will be unexcused unless verified as necessary by the doctor or dentist. (School Board Policy 7:70)

School authorities will not dictate dress or hairstyle EXCEPT when necessary to encourage a positive educational climate and an orderly operation of the school.

School personnel are responsible for the health and safety of each student while at school and for presentation of an atmosphere, which is conducive to learning. The school principal has full authority to take prudent action as necessary when a student’s attire is such that it interferes with the learning of others; or a student’s attire or hair style presents a danger to himself or others; or a student’s appearance violates commonly accepted community standards of decency; or a student’s bodily condition or mode of dress is detrimental to his or her health or the health of others.

Student Attire Expectations:
All students are expected to be covered from shoulder to mid-thigh. Clothing must be clean and neat. Garments will have the appropriate length hem and shorts will be of appropriate length. Pants, shorts, etc. must be worn at the waist. Students must wear footwear.

Examples of unacceptable attire include, but are not limited to:

• Clothing that advertise alcohol, drugs, tobacco, gambling, promoting violence, or obscene or vulgar language.
•  Students will not wear outdoor coats in class. Coats and jackets are to be kept in the students’ lockers. If classrooms are chilly, sweaters should be worn. After sufficient notification, students who continue to wear coats and jackets in school will be referred to the dean’s office.
• Wearing clothing in a revealing manner.
• Clothing with holes or slits that are inappropriate.
• Spaghetti strap/tank tops.
• Torso revealing or open mesh shirts.
• Students may not wear sunglasses. 
• Students may not wear any head covering inside the premises, with the exception of approved religious or medically prescribed head coverings.
• Visible piercings are allowed but must be removable. Jewelry is prohibited during any class or activity when a staff member believes it poses a health or safety risk based on the activity. This includes but is not limited to rings, watches, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, eyebrow, nose, lip piercings etc. Students enrolled in JROTC must follow uniform guidelines. (School Board Policy 7:160)
   

Any vehicle parking on school property is subject to search by school authorities and law enforcement personnel working with them. Such searches may be conducted without warrant for any reasonable purpose. Search of the vehicle includes all compartments and components. Once the search begins, the person in control of the vehicle will not be permitted to remove it from the premises. (School Board Policy 7:190)

The school administration and deans have the responsibility for maintaining appropriate school and bus discipline. Unacceptable student conduct on buses may result in the loss of transportation privileges. Any one serious incident may result in temporary or permanent loss of transportation. Students may be required to show a current school ID in order to board school buses. A student should present their ID upon request to the bus driver. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action. Buses may be equipped with audio and video cameras to record student actions.

Safe transportation is directly dependent on maintaining good on-board passenger discipline.

• Each campus will conduct a practice bus evacuation drill.
• The bus driver has initial responsibility for discipline and shall report infractions to a dean.
• The parent(s) or legal guardians of a student granted an intra-District transfer is responsible for transportation to and from school. (School Board Policy 7:30)
• The following are the rules and regulations for school bus riders in Illinois:
  • Follow all directions given by the bus driver or other school personnel on the bus.
  • Be on time at the designated school bus stop; help keep the bus on schedule.
  • Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus.
  • Be careful in approaching the place where the bus stops; do not move toward the bus until the bus has been brought to a complete stop and the door has been opened.
  • Stay in your seat while the bus is in motion.
  • Be alert to a danger signal from the driver.
  • Remain in the bus in the event of a road emergency until instructions are given by the driver.
  • Keep hands, head, and feet inside the bus at all times. Do not throw anything out of the bus windows.
  • Remember that excessive noise and commotion diverts the driver’s attention and could result in a serious accident. Any type of rowdy conduct is prohibited.
  • Be quiet when approaching a railroad crossing.
  • Assist in keeping the bus safe and clean at all times.
  • No animals are allowed on the bus.
  • Keep books, packages, coats, and all other objects out of the aisles.
  • Leave no books, lunches, or other articles on the bus.
  • Be courteous to fellow students and the bus driver.
  • Do not ask the driver to stop at places other than the regular bus stop.
  • Observe safety precautions at discharge points. Where it is necessary to cross the highway, proceed to a point at least ten (10) feet in front of the bus on the right shoulder of the highway where traffic may be observed in both directions. Wait for a signal from the bus driver permitting you to cross. Rear door is for emergencies only.
  • Observe classroom conduct on the bus. No smoking, eating, drinking, or card playing will be tolerated.
  •  Do not deliberately cause damage to the bus as you will be responsible for the cost of restitution and will forfeit the privilege of riding the school bus.
  • Electronic devices are permitted on the bus at an appropriate volume. Failure to adhere will require the device to be turned off and secured out of sight in an appropriate backpack, purse, bag etc.
  • All sports equipment should be secured in an appropriate duffel bag or backpack. Other items may be refused on a bus due to safety concerns.
  • Students must obtain permission from building administration prior to riding any bus other than the one designated for their address.
  •  Students are expected to board and exit the bus at the stop closest to their home.
• Bus passengers are also expected to observe all school rules while on a bus and are also subject to the “Disciplinary Guidelines.”
  The following are disciplinary procedures:
  • When a bus returns to a campus because of student misbehavior, students removed from that bus will be allowed access to a phone to secure a ride.
  • In the event of student misconduct or insubordination, the bus driver will complete a student referral and forward it to a dean. A conference will be scheduled with the student, and if necessary, a parent. The dean may suspend students guilty of gross disobedience and insubordination from riding the school bus. Parents are responsible for transporting any student suspended from riding the school bus. (School Board Policy 7:220)
  • Repeated bus suspensions could result in permanent loss of transportation. (School Board Policy 7:220)

The cafeteria provides a selection of a la carte and full meal options at a reasonable cost to students. The school lunch program meets the National School Lunch Program guidelines and offers breakfast and lunch to students and faculty daily. Students may prepay for meals in the textbook center or at www.myschoolbucks.com

The following rules are to be followed:

• Students must follow all directions of cafeteria staff, café monitors and security staff;
• Students must use their own ID to purchase meals;
• Students may not cut in line to get service;
• Students are responsible for their trays, plates, utensils, and disposable materials and also for the general cleanliness of the area in which they are sitting;
• Students may not take food or drink out of the cafeteria without written staff permission;
• Students may not go to unsupervised areas of the building or to the parking lots during lunch periods;
• Students may not use vehicles during lunch periods;
• Students must stay on campus for lunch;
• All sack lunches must be eaten in the cafeteria.

Food Service Policy Concerning Prepayments, No Money and Low or Negative Balances - Joliet Township High School District uses a prepaid point of sale system called MySchoolBucks. Individuals scan their District ID to deduct the meal cost from their prepaid balance. Cash is not accepted in the cafeteria. All students and staff should create and fund a lunch account online at www.myschoolbucks.com. Deposits are also accepted through the school Textbook Center/Cashier Office. All deposits take 24-hours to be processed, so the funds will not be available to use until the next school day. MySchoolBucks provides parents with additional features such as viewing student purchases, spending history, low balance email notifications, ability to set daily/weekly spending limits and the option to specify ‘meals only’ or include a la carte purchases.

If a student qualifies for reduced-price or paid meals and the student has a low or negative balance, the student will be able to charge the cost of a full meal. After five days of carrying a negative balance, the parent or guardian will be contacted and required to replenish the students My School Bucks account and or complete a meal benefits application if not previously done. Negative balances will automatically deduct from additional funds deposited into the students account. If a student qualifies for free meals, the student does not need money on their account unless they want to purchase extra drinks or a la carte items. Students cannot purchase a la carte or extra drinks if they have a negative balance. All students must pay the full cost of meals while waiting for a free or reduced-price meal application to be reviewed.

Lunch account balances remaining at the end of the school year will roll-over to the following school year. The School District will not issue refunds or transfers during the school year or after each school year, except to graduates or students withdrawing from the school district. Refunds and transfers will be issued according to the following guidelines:

1. Refunds and transfers will only be considered for graduates and students withdrawing from the school district.
2. A balance less than $10 will not be refunded, transferred or used toward payment of student fees. Students should deplete lunch accounts with less than $10 before their last day of school.
3. Accounts with more than $10 will be used:
   1. Toward payment of the student’s fees;
   2. Transferred to another family member;
   3. A refund will be issued.
4.  Parents must submit a written request to transfer or refund the balance within two weeks after a student graduates or withdraws from the school district.
5. Transfer requests should include the name and ID number of the graduate and the name and ID number of the family member receiving the funds.
6. Refund requests should include the name and ID number of the graduate, the parents name and a mailing address.
7. Cash refunds will not be provided.

Mail cafeteria refund requests to:                            E-mail cafeteria refund requests to:                   
Joliet Township High School                                                              bshaw@jths.org
Director of Support Services
3901 Olympic Boulevard
Joliet, IL 60431

Buildings and grounds are monitored and recorded by a 24-hour digital video surveillance system. Buses may be equipped with video cameras to record student actions.

In academic areas, personal electronic devices such as cell phones, smart watches and headphones may only be used with teacher/staff permission. The use of personal electronic devices is not allowed in bathrooms or locker rooms.

Students are expected to exhibit honesty in school endeavors, including academic assignments. Students may be found to have violated this responsibility if they plagiarize or cheat. Webster’s Dictionary defines plagiarism as the act of taking ideas or writings from another and passing them off as one’s own. Webster’s Dictionary defines cheating as deceiving, taking, giving, or accepting any illicit advantage for any course work inside or outside of the classroom. Any student caught in the act of plagiarizing or cheating may receive a grade of “F” for the assignment in which the offense occurred.

Violations will result in parent contact, and may include referral to a dean or counselor, and/or being dropped from class.

As part of the Joliet Township High School community relations and recognition programs, the District periodically releases information to the public about our students, their classwork, and/or accomplishments. To highlight student success, your child’s name, picture, video, classwork, and/or information pertaining to their accomplishment may appear in various District and non-District publications, which includes but is not limited to, newspapers, web pages, social media, print and electronic communication. Any media permission approved by the school will be positive, focusing primarily on student successes.

If you DO NOT wish to have your child’s information shared or spotlighted in any of the local, school, or District and/or non-District media coverage, please complete the ”Refusal of Permission for Media Participation” form and return it to your child’s school. This form is available at www.jths.org under Family Resources > Communication > Student Media Permissions. The direct link to access the form is: https://www.jths.org/family-resources/stay-connected/student- media-permissions.

The form is also available in the Assistant Principal’s Office and/or the Main Office at each campus. If there are any extenuating circumstances you feel the school should be made aware of, please contact the school principal to further discuss your concerns.

Daily announcements are broadcast through the Steelmen News Network (SNN) and Tiger News Network (TNN). Daily announcements are also posted on both campus homepages.

Announcements should be of interest to specific organizations, should not be unduly long, and require the signature of the faculty sponsor.

Announcement forms are available in the principal’s office. Forms must be turned in by noon on the school day preceding the morning announcements.

Any equipment or material that can be deemed dangerous to the health, safety, or welfare of students and staff will not be allowed, which includes possessing or using any aerosol or spray that has the effect of disabling people or animals (e.g. mace, pepper spray, animal repellent, etc.) (School Board Policy 7:190)

    Each student and his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) is responsible for reviewing and agreeing to the Electronic Network Access policy. A signature upon enrollment is required.

All use of the Network shall be consistent with the District’s goal of promoting educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. The Network consists of any electronic device, application or service provided by the District including but not limited to the internet, e-mail, phones, voice mail, electronic information, and software applications. This Authorization does not attempt to state all required or proscribed behavior by users.
However, some specific examples are provided. The failure of any user to follow the terms of the Authorization for Electronic Network Access will result in the loss of privileges, disciplinary action, and/or appropriate legal action.

The district provides notification to students, parents/guardians that it may not request or require a student to provide a password or other related account information in order to gain access to the students’ account or profile on a social networking website if the district has reasonable cause to believe that the student’s account on a social networking website contains evidence that the student has violated a disciplinary rule or policy. (School Board Policy 7:140, 7:190)
 
The handbook signature/s are legally binding and indicate the parties who signed have read the terms and conditions carefully and understand their significance.

Terms and Conditions

1. Acceptable Use - Access to the District’s Network must be: (a) for the purpose of education or research, and be consistent with the District’s educational objectives, or (b) for a legitimate business use.
2. Privileges - The use of the District’s electronic network is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. The Building Administration in conjunction with District Technology Staff will make all decisions regarding whether or not a user has violated the terms of access privileges and may deny, revoke, or suspend access at any time.
3. Unacceptable Use - The user is responsible for his or her actions and activities involving the network. Some examples of unacceptable uses are:
   a. Using the network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other contracts, or transmitting any material in violation of any State or federal law;
   b. Unauthorized downloading of software, regardless of whether it is copyrighted or de-virused;
   c. Downloading copyrighted material for other than personal use;
   d. Using the network for private financial or commercial gain;
   e. Wastefully using resources, such as file space;
   f. Hacking or gaining unauthorized access to files, resources, or entities;
   g. Invading the privacy of individuals, that includes the unauthorized disclosure, dissemination, and use of information about anyone that is of a personal nature including a photograph;
   h. Using another user’s account or password;
   i. Posting material authored or created by another without his/her consent;
   j. Posting anonymous messages;
   k. Using the network for commercial or private advertising;
   l. Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, or displaying any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, harassing, or illegal material; and
   m. Using privileges while they are suspended or revoked.
4. Network Etiquette - You are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include, but are not limited to, the following:
   a. Be polite. Do not become abusive in messages to others.
   b. Use appropriate language. Do not swear or use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language.
   c. Do not reveal the personal information, including the addresses or telephone numbers of students or colleagues.
   d. Recognize that electronic mail (e-mail) and phone conversations/messages are not private. People who operate the systems have access. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.
   e. Keep messages limited to essential information.
   f. Do not use the network in any way that would disrupt its use by other users.
   g. Consider all communications and information accessible via the network to be private property.
5. No Warranties - The District makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. The District is not responsible for any information that may be lost, damaged, or unavailable when using the network, or for any information that is retrieved or transmitted via the Internet. The District will not be responsible for any damages the user suffers. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, missed deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its negligence or the user’s errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the users own risk. The District specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.
6. Indemnification - The user agrees to indemnify the School District for any losses, costs, or damages, including reasonable attorney fees, incurred by the District relating to, or arising out of, any violation of this Authorization.
7. Security - Network security is a high priority. If you can identify a security problem on the Network, you must notify the system administrator or Building Principal. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. Keep your account and password confidential. Do not use another individual’s account without written permission from that individual. Attempts to log on to the Internet as a system administrator will result in cancellation of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk may be denied access to the network.
8. Confidentiality - All users of the District’s computers and means of Internet access shall maintain the confidentiality of student records. Reasonable measures to protect against unreasonable access shall be taken before confidential student information is loaded onto the network.
9. Vandalism - Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges and other disciplinary action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, the Internet, or any other network. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.
10. Telephone Charges - The District assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges or fees, including telephone charges, long-distance charges, per-minute surcharges, and/or equipment or line costs.
11. Curriculum - The use of the District’s electronic networks shall (1) be consistent with the curriculum adopted by the District, as well as the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities, and developmental levels of the students, and (2) comply with the selection criteria for instructional materials and library/media center materials. Staff members may, consistent with the Superintendent’s implementation plan, use the Internet throughout the curriculum. The District’s electronic network is part of the curriculum and is not a public forum for general use.
12. Copyright Web Publishing Rules - Copyright law and District policy prohibit the re-publishing of text or graphics found on the Web or on District Web sites or file servers, without explicit written permission.
    a. For each re-publication (on a Web site or file server) of a graphic or text file that was produced externally, there must a notice at the bottom of the page crediting the original producer and noting how and when permission was granted. If possible, the notice should also include the Web address of the original source.
    b. Students and staff engaged in producing Web pages must have permission from their teacher, library media specialists or the communications office before the Web pages are published.
    c. The absence of a copyright notice may not be interpreted as permission to copy the materials. Only the copyright owner may provide the permission. The manager of the Web site displaying the material may not be considered a source of permission.
    d. The “fair use” rules governing student reports in classrooms are less stringent and permit limited use of graphics and text.
    e. Student work may only be published if there is written permission from both the parent/guardian and student.

Use of Electronic and Voice Mail System - The District’s electronic and voice mail system and their constituent software, hardware, and data files are owned and controlled by the School District. The School District provides these to aid staff members in fulfilling their duties and responsibilities and as an education tool.

a.    The District reserves the right to access and disclose the contents of any account on its system, without prior notice or permission from the account’s user. Unauthorized access by any student or staff member to an electronic or voice mail account is strictly prohibited.
b.    Each person should use the same degree of care in drafting an electronic mail message or leaving a voice mail message as would be put into a written memorandum or document. Nothing should be transmitted in an e-mail message that would be inappropriate in a letter or memorandum.
c.   Electronic messages transmitted via the School District’s Internet gateway carry with them an identification of the user’s Internet “domain.” This domain name is a registered domain name and identifies the author as being with the School District. Great care should be taken, therefore, in the composition of such messages and how such messages might reflect on the name and reputation of the School District. Users will be held personally responsible for the content of any and all electronic mail messages transmitted to external recipients.
d.    Any messages received from an unknown sender via the Internet should be immediately deleted. Any patterns recognized should be immediately reported to the system administrator. Downloading any file attached to or clicking on any link contained in any Internet-based message is prohibited unless the user is certain of that message’s authenticity and the nature of the file/link so transmitted.
e.    Use of the School District’s electronic and voice mail system constitutes consent to these regulations.

Internet Safety
Internet access is limited to only those “acceptable uses” as detailed in these procedures. Internet safety is almost always assured if users will not engage in “unacceptable uses,” as detailed in this Authorization, and otherwise follow this Authorization.

Staff members shall supervise students while students are using District Internet access to ensure that the students abide by the Terms and Conditions for Internet access contained in this Authorization.

The District’s Internet access has filtering in place that attempts to block entry to visual depictions that are: (1) obscene, (2)  pornographic, or (3) harmful or inappropriate for students, as defined by the Children’s Internet Protection Act and as determined by the Superintendent or designee.

The system administrator and Building Principals shall monitor student Internet access. (School Board Policy 6:235)

The Joliet Township High School Board of Education approved a plan to implement Emergency E-Learning Days beginning in the 2019-2020 school year.

E-Learning Days eliminate the loss of instructional time during unscheduled school closures. If an Emergency E-Learning Day is necessary, it would be considered a regular school attendance day and would not be made up at the end of the school year. The purpose of an Emergency E-Learning Day is to provide a continuum of learning for students in the event that school needs to close. Teachers will leverage the district’s 1:1 technology resources to provide students with relevant, meaningful and manageable assignments that students can be engaged in when school has been cancelled. The goal is to minimize disruption to the academic progress caused by emergency school closures and to make emergency days as educationally productive and engaging as possible.

The Emergency E-Learning Plan outlines specific responsibilities for teachers, staff, and students. This includes making the announcement of an E-Learning Emergency Day no later than 5 a.m. the morning of the school closure. The announcement will be made through the standard modes of communication used by the school district, including text message, automated phone call, social media, and the Emergency Closing Center.

Per this plan, teachers will post attendance procedures and relevant class assignments for students to access by 9 a.m. the morning of the Emergency E-Leaning Day. Assignments will be aligned to curricular objectives and will require no more than 50 minutes to complete per class. Teachers will be available to assist students online through their Learning Management Platform.

Student expectations include reading and following directions received regarding attendance and participation. Students must complete activities and class assignments from their teachers. In the event of unforeseen circumstances, students should consult with their teachers. For example, students without access to power or the internet should see their teachers the following student attendance day.

JTHS Technology Support Staff will work from home and are available to assist students, parents, and staff with technical support on Emergency E-Learning Days. Students and parents should call 815-727-6860 for assistance or email centralstudenthelpdesk@jths.org (Central Campus) or weststudenthelpdesk@jths.org (West Campus).

The use of any elevator is limited to students who have a medical excuse (see Health Services). A $50.00 replacement fee will be assessed for each lost key. Keys must be returned on physician’s end date or last date of current semester, whichever comes first.

Students going on school trips will be under the supervision of a staff member. The same general rules and disciplinary guidelines apply that are in force during school hours. Parents must sign a written notification prior to the trip. District 204 does not endorse, nor will it promote trips sponsored by outside agencies. Only trips approved by the Board of Education will be recognized. (School Board Policy 6:240)

Students should be aware of and follow fire, tornado, and lockdown evacuation procedures and prescribed routes posted in all classrooms.

Only district approved fundraisers may occur on school grounds. All fundraising requests must be made by an activity or club sponsor and approved by the campus Athletic Director. (School Board Policy 7:325)

Students are not permitted to sell or distribute any materials on school premises without permission from school authorities.

Students are not permitted to sell or distribute any materials on school premises without permission from school authorities.

Permanent picture identification cards are issued to students annually. If this card is lost, the replacement charge is $10.00. Every student must wear a current year student ID on his/her person during the school day. Identification cards must be worn appropriately on the upper torso via school approved lanyard or clip. One school lanyard will be issued to each student at the beginning of the school year. If a student arrives to school without his or her permanent ID, the classroom teacher/security will issue a temporary ID to the student for that day. A $5.00 fee will be assessed each time a temporary ID is issued. Students may surrender temporary ID to the main office and be issued a new ID and be billed for the remaining $5.00. (Invoices will be mailed to the parent/guardian). Student ID’s are required for entry into extracurricular activities; students without ID may be denied entry.

Lockers are the property of the school district and are provided for the convenience of the students for the storage of property lawfully on the school premises. Locker number, location and combination will be issued to students during schedule distribution. Use of other locks is prohibited. Passkeys to all lockers are held by school authorities. Locker problems should be reported to the dean’s office. Lockers and combinations must not be shared with other students.

Sharing lockers can result in disciplinary action. District 204 is not responsible for lost or stolen items. On occasion students are reassigned lockers. Lock replacement charge is $5. Because school lockers are the property of the school, students have no expectation of privacy in the use of lockers. School officials reserve the right to search any locker and its contents at any time, without notice, consent, or warrant in order to maintain the integrity of the school environment and health and welfare of the school population.

A lost and found department is operated in the Security Departments at Central and West. Items found in classrooms, study halls, and corridors should be turned in to lost and found. Owners of lost items should check the lost and found before or after school. District 204 is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Office runners will only deliver emergency messages to students. If it is necessary for a parent to contact a student in an emergency, he/she should call the appropriate dean’s office. Items will not be accepted or delivered to students unless it is for emergency purposes.

All students and visitors may be subject to a random search using walk through and/or handheld metal detectors. Random searches will be conducted throughout the school year to maintain a safe learning environment. Purses, gym bags, book bags and backpacks will be subject to inspection.

FOR ALL LAND, BUILDINGS, AND VEHICLES OF JTHS DISTRICT 204:

This notice is to personally inform you that you are not permitted on THE GROUNDS, OR IN ANY BUILDINGS, OR IN ANY VEHICLE OF JTHS DISTRICT 204 if you are in possession of any of the following: air rifle/air gun, BB gun, air soft gun, paintball gun, pellet gun, or any look-a-like gun of any kind that a reasonable person would believe to be a real gun regardless of the distance at which that person might see it; knife, dagger, dirk, razor, stiletto, or any other dangerous or deadly weapon or instrument of like character.

Anyone who disobeys this notice can be charged with Criminal Trespass to State-Supported Land and/or Criminal Trespass to Vehicles. Both of these offenses are Class A misdemeanors. You can be arrested. If you are convicted, you can be punished by up to one year in the Illinois Department of Corrections, Juvenile Division, and if you are 17 years of age or older, by up to 364 days in jail.

Student parking is limited to seniors and a limited number of juniors. Permits are available from the dean’s office at the Central Campus or Main office at the West Campus. Students must fill out an application, obtain the signature of a parent or guardian, and provide evidence of a valid driver’s license and insurance card.

Joliet Township parking permits will be issued to approved students. Permits must be hung from the rear-view mirror. Students are to park in designated student parking areas only. Students are not permitted to park in the administrative, visitor, or faculty lots. Students are not to park in driveways, driving isles or on sidewalks. Students with registered vehicles should not be in the parking area during the school day unless they are arriving or departing. All traffic laws and posted signs must be obeyed. Violation of the above regulations will result in loss of driving privileges.

A student applying for a parking permit for a vehicle is automatically consenting to any search of that vehicle deemed necessary by school officials. That vehicle and its contents may be searched by school officials without notice, cause, consent or warrant while the vehicle is on school property. District 204 is not responsible for theft of or damage to student driven vehicles. All fees, including the parking fee must be paid in full to receive a parking permit. The parking fee will be $100.00 for the entire school year or prorated by quarter.

Passes - A pass system is used in order to keep disruption, vandalism, and trespassing to a minimum. Therefore, no student should be in the halls during class periods without a pass. Passes are issued to students who have a valid reason to leave class. Passes to lockers and washrooms are not usually issued since there is ample time throughout the day to take care of these needs.

Office call slips - Office call slips are used by the deans, counselors, health services, or other office personnel when they desire to see a student. The call slip should be used by the student as a pass to the particular office listed on the call slip. Students are required to honor the directions on the call slip and may not use it as a pass to other areas.

Conference slips - Conference slips or email are used by students who wish to see a teacher or counselor for a specific reason. Conference slips should be obtained from the teacher. Both slips should be filled out completely by the student and signed by the teacher. The pink slip is left with the study hall teacher, and the white slip serves as the student’s pass to his conference room. Students may not request a conference slip that releases them from class.

Students and organizations publicizing activities must comply with campus regulations. These are as follows:

• Posting of materials is allowed only on hall bulletin boards or glass areas inside classrooms or offices. Corridor doors, glass and walls are off limits.
• Only masking tape may be used. Scotch tape or double-faced tape is not allowed;
• All posters should be of a standard size;
• All posters must be in good taste; and
• All posters or materials must be approved by the principal or designee prior to posting.

(School Board Policy 7:315)

The “Armed Forces Recruiter Access to Students and Student Recruiting Information Act” requires that schools make student names, addresses, and telephone numbers available to military recruiters and institutions of higher learning. Students and parents may opt out by notifying the principal’s office in writing so that such information is not released.

Federal law requires male students to register with Selective Service within thirty days of their 18th birthday. Registering with Selective Service means students will stay eligible for college loans, federal jobs, and job training. (School Board Policy 7:340)

Residence - Only students who are residents of the District may attend a District school without a tuition charge, except as otherwise provided below or in State law. A student’s residence is the same as the person who has legal custody of the student.

A person asserting legal custody over a student, who is not the child’s natural or adoptive parent, shall complete a signed statement, stating: (a) that he or she has assumed and exercises legal responsibility for the child, (b) the reason the child lives with him or her, other than to receive an education in the District, and (c) that he or she exercises full control over the child regarding daily educational and medical decisions in case of emergency. In addition, the child’s natural or adoptive parent, if available, shall complete a signed statement or Power of Attorney stating: (a) the role and responsibility of the person with whom their child is living, and (b) that the person with whom the child is living has full control over the child regarding daily educational and medical decisions in case of emergency.

A student whose family moves out of the District during the school year will be permitted to attend school for the remainder of the year without payment of tuition and must provide own transportation.

(School Board Policy 7:60)

Attendance Areas - The School District is divided into school attendance areas. The Superintendent will review the boundary lines annually and recommend any changes to the Board of Education. The Superintendent or designee shall maintain a map of the District current school attendance areas. Students living in a given school attendance area will be assigned to that school. Homeless children shall be assigned according to Board Policy 6:140, Education of Homeless Children.

Students living in a given school attendance area shall attend that school. Students with disabilities will be considered for campus assignment on a case-by-case basis through the development of an Individualized Educational, Alternate Learning or Accommodation Plan. The Superintendent may grant an exception when the parent(s)/guardian(s) demonstrate that the student could be better accommodated by the education program at another school, provided space is available. Students who are granted a transfer within the District shall be responsible for their own transportation and are ineligible to participate in IHSA and SPC sanctioned activities and athletics, except as required by law. The Superintendent will advise the Board of all such transfers.

Transfers Within the District - A student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) may request the student be transferred to a District school other than the one to which the student was assigned. Requests should be directed to the Superintendent, who, at his or her sole discretion, may grant the request when the parent(s)/guardian(s) demonstrate that the student could be better accommodated by the education program at another school, provided space is available. Students who are granted a transfer within the District shall be responsible for their own transportation and are ineligible to participant in IHSA and SPC sanctioned activities and athletics, except as required by law. The provisions in this section have no applicability to transfers mandated by: (1) Title I covered in Board Policy 6:15, School Accountability, or (2) the Unsafe School Choice Option covered in Board Policy 4:170, Safety. (School Board Policy 7:30)

Restitution may be imposed for such infractions as damage to school property.

Upon arrival on campus, a student in possession of a skateboard is prohibited from riding the skateboard on school district property. Skateboards are not allowed on JTHS buses.

Financial obligations must be paid upon receipt of notice. They must be paid before the end of the school year. Seniors must have all obligations paid in full before receiving a cap and gown. Seniors will not receive a diploma until all fees are paid. All obligations must be paid before a student will be allowed to purchase a parking permit and/or tickets to JTHS dances. Fees must be paid in the Textbook Center.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students that are over 18 years of age
(“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to their educational records. They are as follows:

• The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within forty-five (45) days of the day the District receives a request for access. A parent/guardian or eligible student should submit to the records custodian, principal, or other appropriate official, written requests that identify the record(s) he/she wishes to inspect. The District official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent/guardian or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the District official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the parent/guardian or eligible student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
• The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent/guardian or eligible student believes is inaccurate or misleading. A parent/guardian or eligible student may ask the District to amend a record that he/she believes is inaccurate or misleading. He/she should write the District officials responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record he/she wants changed and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.
• If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent/guardian or eligible student, the District will notify the parent/guardian or eligible student of the decision and advise the parent/guardian or eligible student of his/her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent/guardian or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
• The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the parent/guardian or eligible student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
• One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is defined as follows: a person employed by the District in an administrative supervisory, academic, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the District has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); or a person serving on the Board of Education. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities.
• Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
• The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605

Directory information may be disclosed without prior notice or consent unless the parent/guardian or eligible student notifies the records custodian or other official in writing, before October of the current school year, that he/she does not want any or all of the directory information disclosed. Directory information includes the student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended.

The rights of parents and students regarding student records are as follows:

• “Student Permanent Record” means the minimum personal information necessary to a school in the education of the student and contained in a school student record. Such information includes:
  • Basic identifying information, including the student’s name and address, birth date and place, gender, and the names and addresses of the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s);
  • Academic transcripts, including grades, graduation date, grade level achieved, scores on college entrance examinations (except that a parent/guardian or eligible student may request, in writing, the removal from the academic transcript of any score received on college entrance examinations), and the unique student identifier assigned and used by ISBE’s Student Information System;
  • Attendance record;
  • Health record, defined by ISBE rule as “medical documentation necessary for enrollment and proof of dental examinations, as may be required under Section 27.8.1 of the School Code”;
  • Record of release of permanent record information;
  • Scores received on all State assessment tests administered at the high school level (that is, grades 9 through 12).

Permanent records will be maintained for a period of sixty years following the student’s graduation, transfer, or permanent withdrawal from the school. The principal is the official records custodian for the campus.

•  “Student Temporary Record” means all information contained in a school student record but not required to be in the student permanent record. Such information includes:
• Family background information;
• Intelligence and aptitude test scores;
• Psychological evaluation reports and intelligence and personality tests;
• Elementary and secondary achievement level test results;
• Participation in extra-curricular activities including any offices held in school-sponsored clubs or organizations;
• Honors and awards received;
• Teacher anecdotal records;
• Disciplinary information, including information regarding serious disciplinary infractions involving drugs, weapons, or bodily harm to another that resulted in expulsion, suspension or the imposition of punishment or sanction;
• Special education files;
• Records associated with plans developed under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973;
• Verified reports from non-educational persons, agencies or organizations;
• Other verified information of clear relevance to the education of the student; and
• Record of release of student temporary record information;
• Scores received on the State assessment tests administered in the elementary grade levels (Kindergarten through grade 8);
• Completed home language survey
• Any final finding report received from a Child Protective Service Unit provided to the school under the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act; no report other than what is required under Section 8.6 of the Act shall be placed in the student record;
• Health-related information, defined by ISBE rule as “current documentation of a student’s health information, not otherwise governed by the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act or other privacy laws, which includes identifying information, health history, results of mandated testing and screenings, medication dispensation records and logs (e.g., glucose readings), long-term medications administered during school hours, documentation regarding a student athlete’s and his or her parents’ acknowledgment of the District’s concussion policy adopted pursuant to 105 ILCS 5/10-20.53, and other health-related information that is relevant to school participation (e.g., nursing services plan, failed screenings, yearly sports physical exams, interim health histories for sport)”;
• Accident report, defined by ISBE rule as “documentation of any reportable student accident that results in an injury to a student, occurring on the way to or from school or on school grounds, at a school athletic event or when a student is participating in a school program or school-sponsored activity or on a school bus and that is severe enough to cause the student not to be in attendance for one-half day or more or requires medical treatment other than first aid. The accident report shall include identifying information, nature of injury, days lost, cause of injury, location of accident, medical treatment given to the student at the time of the accident, or whether the school nurse has referred the students for a medical evaluation, regardless of whether the parent, guardian or student (if 18 years or older) or an unaccompanied homeless youth…has followed through on that request.”;
• Any documentation of a student’s transfer, including records indicating the school or school district to which the student transferred;

Temporary records for all students will be maintained for a minimum of five (5) years following the student’s graduation, transfer, or permanent withdrawal from school. The parents of any student who has graduated, transferred or withdrawn from school, including special education students, and/or the student him/herself if he/she has turned 18 years of age, may request the information contained in the temporary file by contacting the campus principal, or for students in special education, the campus special education coordinator.

•  Any release of or access to student records shall require written consent of the parent or legal guardian. A parent or student may not be forced to release information from student records in order to secure any right, privilege, or benefit, including employment, credit, or insurance. A record of information released will be maintained. The only exceptions are as follows:
  • Student records may be reviewed by District school officials who have a legitimate educational interest in the student and when such review is intended for professional purposes.
  • The school may provide anonymous data from its records for outside research purposes under the conditions where the likelihood of identifying any individual is negligible.
  • In complying with judicial order, where agencies have the power of subpoena, parents and/or students should be notified of all such orders and school’s compliance.
  • Records will be provided to the official records custodian of another school in which the student has enrolled upon the request of such official or student.
    Note: Parents or legal guardian may, upon request, inspect, copy, and challenge such information.
  • In cases of emergency, when such information is essential to protect the health of the student or other persons, notification shall be sent to the parent or legal guardian upon such release indicating date, person or agency, and purpose of release.
  • Students fourteen (14) years of age or older have the right to review their records without parental consent.
  • All rights and privileges accorded a parent shall become exclusively those of the student upon his/her eighteenth birthday, graduation from secondary school, marriage, or entry into military service, whichever occurs first.
    
    Parents and legal guardians have the right to inspect and challenge the accuracy, relevance, and/or propriety of any student record entry, exclusive of course grades. The procedure of challenge is as follows:
  • The parent and/or legal guardian must prepare a written statement that identifies the following: the entry being challenged; the reason it is being challenged; and the desired outcome.
  • The parent or legal guardian must request an informal conference with the principal. Such a conference must be held within fifteen (15) school days of the request.
  • If satisfaction is not reached, the parent or guardian must request a formal review by the Superintendent of Schools. Such a conference must be held within fifteen (15) days of the request, and a decision must be rendered within ten (10) school days of the conference.
  •  If resolution is still not reached, the parent or legal guardian must request a review by the Superintendent of the Educational Service Region. The decision of the appeal shall be final.
• The following is designated as public information and shall be released to the general public, unless the parents request that any or all such information not be released: student’s name and address; grade level; birth date and place; parents’ names and addresses; information on participation in school-sponsored activities and athletics; achievements; the student’s major field of academic study; and period of attendance in the school. A parent or student who wishes to have this information or any reproduction of the student’s photograph, portrait, voice, film, or electric tape excluded from publication of any sort, may do so by notifying the principal in writing. Failure to submit such request in writing shall release the Joliet Township High School, their officers, employees, agents, representatives, or their assignee, or designees from any claim or liability for invasion of privacy, libel, slander, or other course of action with respect to publication, distribution, or use of such photograph, portrait, voice, film, electronic tape, or any reproduction or prints thereof.
• Parents have the right to inspect and copy any and all information contained in the student’s record. There will be a small charge for copies, not to exceed 35 cents per page. This fee will be waived for those unable to afford such costs.
• House Bill 1816 was passed, which amended the Illinois School Student Records Act to allow student records to be disseminated to a SHOCAP (Serious Habitual Offender Comprehensive Action Program) committee for the purpose of identifying serious habitual offenders and matching them with community resources.
• Copies of the laws, rules, and regulations on student records are on file with the Principal and the Superintendent of the District.

Notice of Destruction Schedule for Temporary and Permanent Records
Joliet Township High School District 204’s destruction schedule for temporary student records is as follows: All temporary student records will be destroyed after June 30th of the 5th year following the student’s graduation, transfer, or permanent withdrawal from school.
Joliet Township High School District 204’s destruction schedule for permanent student records is as follows: All permanent student records will be destroyed after June 30th of the 60th year following the student’s graduation, transfer, or permanent withdrawal from school.
 
Parents and students (as permitted by the Illinois School Student Records Act) have the right to request a copy of these records prior to their destruction. Requests must be made in writing and delivered to the School Records Custodian.
Parents and students will be charged a copy fee at the then current rate per page, as set forth in Board Policy or procedures. (School Board Policy 7:340)

Joliet Central High School
Attn:School Records Custodian
201 East Jefferson Street
Joliet, IL 60432    

Joliet West High School
Attn: School Records Custodian
401 North Larkin Avenue
Joliet, IL 60435

Visitors must register at the Security Booth in the main entrance. The following steps must be followed:

• Photo identification is required;
• Visitors must wear school-issued identification, which should be visible during the entire visit;
• Visitors must sign in and out and are subject to metal detection;
• All appointments must be confirmed before the visit.

All visitors who meet one of the following qualifications are welcome:

• Parents or guardians of students;
• Graduates on school business or who are now in college outside the Joliet area;
• Servicemen in uniform who were former students;
• Business representatives with pre-arranged appointments.

Small children will not be issued a visitor’s pass at any time.
Student visitors from other schools are not allowed. This includes in- or out-of-state visitors. Visitors must enter through the security entrance.

State law prohibits a child sex offender from being present on school property or loitering within 500 feet of school property when persons under the age of 18 are present, unless the offender meets either of the following two exceptions:

1. The offender is a parent/guardian of a student attending the school and has notified the Building Principal of his or her presence at the school for the purpose of: (i) attending a conference with school personnel to discuss the progress of his or her child academically or socially, (ii) participating in child review conferences in which evaluation and placement decisions may be made with respect to his or her child regarding special education services, or (iii) attending conferences to discuss other student issues concerning his or her child such as retention and promotion; or
2. The offender received permission to be present from the Board of Education, Superintendent, or Superintendent’s designee. If permission is granted, the Superintendent or Board President shall provide the details of the offender’s upcoming visit to the Building Principal. (School Board Policies 4:175, 8:30 and 8:50)