Student Handbooks & Agreements
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Policies & Expectations
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Acceptable Use Policy
Pickerington Schools provide students with access to computer equipment, programs, systems, email, internet, and other technologies. Each student must take responsibility for appropriate and lawful use of this access. Students shall not use the school district’s equipment, systems, or network for activities that cause harm to others or damage to their property; or that violate the law, Board policy, or the Student Code of Conduct. The board or authorized district officials will make a good-faith judgment as to which materials, files, information, software, communications, and other content and activities are permitted and prohibited under the particular circumstances based on the following guidelines. Uses and activities that are considered unacceptable and constitute a violation of this policy include, but are not limited to: illegal activities, accessing inappropriate material, inappropriate or insensitive communication, violating copyright laws, copying software, plagiarism, misuse of equipment, passwords or software, malicious use or vandalism, and unauthorized access to the internet. The district and its staff reserve the right to filter and monitor district devices and district internet usage at all times. (24/hours, 365/days a year)
Pickerington Schools will use a variety of services that allow the district to monitor students' accounts, all accounts linked to that PLSD Google Account and student’s PLSD owned Chromebooks. These services may have the ability to notify students when minor infractions occur. As well as notify PLSD administrators is a major infraction occurs or the possibility of self-harm exists.
Please review policy 7540.03 in its entirety on the district website for additional details.
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Accident Protection Policy
The Pickerington Board of Education authorizes the Superintendent to make accident insurance covering children available to parent/guardian(s) at a nominal premium. Covering a child in the program is at the discretion of the parent/guardian(s). The insurance covers accidents that occur during school, on the way to and from school, and while attending school functions. More information about the school insurance program can be found by visiting our website at: www.pickerington.k12.oh.us
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Activities
Mock Trial, Fall Play, Spring Musical, Chorale, E-Sports, Science Olympiad, Robotics, In the Know, Marching Band, Diversity Club, Tech Guru
To be eligible, a student must:
A. Maintain a grade point of 1.750 or better per grading period.
a. Eligibility for each grading period is determined by the grades received the preceding grading period. An athlete will be eligible or ineligible for the next grading period beginning with the fifth school day after the end of each grading period. Eligibility or ineligibility will remain until the fifth school day after the end of the next grading period.
b. For eligibility purposes, new ninth-grade students will have established their GPA if they took any junior high school course(s) for high school credit (e.g., if a student took Spanish only and received a “C”, their ninth-grade GPA for eligibility purposes would be 2.0).
c. All beginning ninth-grade students must have passed 75 percent of subjects in which enrolled and must have earned a 1.75 GPA the preceding grading period (last grading period of eighth-grade year) to be eligible for fall activities.
B. All students’ grades are to be checked at mid-term and at the end of the grading period. Students in grades 9-12 must be passing in at least 5.0 credits or the equivalent at each check. See your advisor/board policy for more specific details.
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Alcohol & Drugs
The distribution, possession, use, or evidence of consumption of alcohol or a drug substance is prohibited and will be dealt with severely. This includes extra-curricular events both home and away. This policy also applies to vaping devices, caffeine tablets or powder, CBD products, look-alike substances and any other item represented to be a drug. Ohio Revised Code 3321.13 and board policy require schools to report drug- or alcohol- related suspensions of any student to the Division of Motor Vehicles. These individuals may have their driving privilege revoked. Please refer to board policy 5611.
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Athletics
The Ohio High School Athletic Association (O.H.S.A.A.) mandates a student must be passing five credits at the High School and 5 classes at the Junior High or the equivalent each grading period. A student regaining their eligibility becomes eligible no sooner than five (5) calendar days after the conclusion of the preceding grading period as long as the grades can be verified. If the verification is not possible, the students’ ineligibility status continues until such time as grades can be verified. The ineligibility of a student begins on the fifth school day of the next grading period. A school day includes faculty in service days, professional development day, calamity days, and regular attendance days, but not holiday or school breaks. Summer school has no impact on a student’s OHSAA eligibility.
For clarification, contact the athletic administrator or the assistant building administrator. Students on an I.E.P. should consult the athletic administrator if they have eligibility questions.
All Pickerington Schools athletes must maintain passing grades during the school year.
A. All student athletes’ grades are to be checked at the time of interims and at the end of the grading period.
B. Those students declared ineligible by O.H.S.A.A. at the end of a grading period will lose their eligibility for the next grading period beginning on the fifth school day of the next grading period.
C. Students must be passing in at least 5.0 credits at the High School and 5 classes at the Junior High or the equivalent at interim. Those students declared ineligible at interim can regain their eligibility at any time once the student athlete is passing 5 credits at the High School and 5 classes at the Junior High.
D. Students must maintain a 1.75 GPA per grading period. There is one probationary period permitted for this standard in the student’s high school career and in the student’s Junior High career.
Requirements for Participation (Athletic Handbook)
1. A physical examination is required and an Ohio High School Athletic Association physical form must be completed and on file in the athletic office. Physicals are valid for 13 months or one calendar school year, with the exception: if the pre-participation athletic evaluation is conducted between May 1 and June 1, the pre-participation evaluation, signed by the medical examiner, is valid for one calendar year plus the remainder of the current school year’s spring sport season (ex: through June). We encourage all potential student athletes to get their physical during the summer months.
2. Parent/guardian(s) and the student athlete must complete the online registration and athletic code of conduct for each student in each session of athletic participation on a yearly basis. This must be done prior to the first day of tryouts or practices.
3. Student athletes must attend the preseason athlete meeting each school year. Attendance once per school year will count for all athletic seasons.
4. Student athletes must submit to a preseason drug test each year. One test per school year will count for all athletic seasons.
Students must follow the standards set forth by the Ohio High School Athletic Association, the Ohio Capital Conference, the Pickerington Board of Education, and the Pickerington athletic department.
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Borrowing Money
Pickerington Schools has a no-cash policy; therefore, the office cannot loan money to students.
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Cafeteria/Commons
The school operates a cafeteria, which offers students hot, nutritious lunches each school day. Students who bring lunches from home may purchase milk in the cafeteria. Students are not permitted to go out for lunch and then return to the building to attend classes. In addition, students may not have outside food delivered to the building by a parent/guardian or delivery service.
The computerized cash register system allows parent/guardian(s) to prepay for their child’s lunches in advance. The amount of the lunch and any other items purchased will be deducted from this account. This system was designed to help speed up the lunch process and works best when parent/guardian(s) prepay for lunches. Parent/guardian(s) may monitor and add funds to their students’ accounts at www.mypaymentsplus.com.
Students are required to report to the cafeteria for lunch during their scheduled lunch period. Lunch can be carried (brown bag) or purchased. Purchased lunches can be class A tray type lunch or a la carte. The cleanliness of tables is the responsibility of all who sit there. Any lunchroom disruption including theft, leaving trash, or throwing food/trash items could be grounds for disciplinary action.
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Change of Address
Any change of address must be reported to the District’s Welcome Center at 614-920-6180. Any home phone number and/or parent/guardian work phone number change should be made by going to the Infinite Campus Parent Portal at: www.pickerington.k12.oh.us
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Child Custody Regulations
In cases of divorce/separation, a copy of the final agreement of the divorce decree/separation agreement that stipulates the custodial provisions must be provided to the school. Any subsequent changes to the court order or decree must also be provided to school officials. Proper identification may be requested to address custody/student issues with building staff.
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Closings & Delays
Occasionally, Pickerington Schools closes or delays school start times or, on rare occasions, closes school early, or moves to all virtual learning based on inclement weather or other reasons. These decisions are made for the safety of our students. While we strive to make these decisions by 5:30 a.m., however; there are times when that is not possible.
We recommend that families establish family emergency plans for potential closings. Such plans should include teaching your child where to go (home, baby sitter, neighbor’s house, etc.) if the district must close school earlier than normal.
If Pickerington Schools close for any reason, the district will communicate with parent/guardian(s) via our Infinite Campus parent notification system, website, and social media. (See “Communication” for details.)
We also will provide information to the following local TV stations: WCMH-TV (Channel 4), WBNS-TV (Channel 10), WSYX-TV (Channel 6), and FOX-TV (Channel 28).
For complete information on our approach to closings and delays, visit our website at: www.pickerington.k12.oh.us
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Co-curricular & Extracurricular Code of Conduct
A co-curricular and extra-curricular code of conduct has been board adopted for students participating in non-athletic extra-curricular activities. See your advisor for more specific details. (refer to policy 2432.03) The parent/guardian and student must sign the code of conduct.
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Communication
The district and individual schools use a variety of tools and tactics to communicate with parent/guardian(s) and the community. These tools include, but are not limited to:
Website: The primary source of District information is our website, www.pickerington.k12.oh.us.
Parent/guardian notification system (emails, TalkingPoints, texts, and phone calls): Pickerington Schools uses an e-communication and telephone service through Infinite Campus to contact large groups of households for special announcements and emergencies, such as calamity days. This system sends emails, phone calls, and text messages to the addresses and phone numbers parent/guardian(s) have identified as their contact preferences in Infinite Campus, the student management system.
Parents/ and guardians are automatically enrolled as subscribers based on the contact information we have on file through Infinite Campus, the student management system. For that reason, it is important for parent/guardian(s) to ensure their contact information in Infinite Campus is correct. This can be done by logging in to the online parent portal at: Parent Portal www.pickerington.k12.oh.us or by checking with your child’s building secretary to ensure we have your most up-to-date phone numbers and email addresses.
Parent/guardian(s) may also log on to this system to change their email and telephone contact preferences, as well as to opt-out of notifications. These messages include, but are not limited to, information about snow/calamity days.
Social media: Parent/guardian(s) are encouraged to follow the district and their child’s school on Facebook and Twitter. Links to all available accounts can be found at: www.pickerington.k12.oh.us
Newsletters: The district and many building administrators produce periodic newsletters for parent/guardian(s). Depending on the school, these may be mailed, posted to the building and/or district website, shared on social media, or emailed via the parent/guardian notification system and/or utilizing a program called Smore.
Parent/Guardian-Teacher Conferences: These are held twice each year and are a valuable opportunity for parents to communicate directly with their child’s teacher(s) and building administrators.
Busing Information: Up-to-date bus routing information is made available through our Elink parent portal: Bus Information. An account is created automatically for each student within 24 hours after a six digit student ID# assigned by Infinite Campus. The username and password are the student ID#. This portal is also used for all bus stop change requests. Once logged in to Elink you can choose the “Parent Communication” tab to access the communication form for this purpose.
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Concerns/Questions
The district encourages parent/guardian(s) to first work with their child’s teacher(s) to address concerns or resolve conflicts. If you have further concerns after meeting with the teacher(s), contact the school’s administration.
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Conduct
Proper behavior is as much a part of a quality education as anything else. While at school and school events, we expect our students to behave properly, i.e., in a manner that brings credit to themselves and their school. A complete copy of the Code of Conduct is available in the main office and by visiting the district website at: hwww.pickerington.k12.oh.us/student-handbooks/
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Courtyard
Use of the Courtyard will be at the discretion of the building administration.
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Deliveries to Students
School related items, such as books, projects, lunch money, etc., may be left with the office or person at the front desk for delivery to your student. No deliveries will be accepted for food, balloons, flowers, etc. even if delivered by parent/guardians. The schools cannot assume responsibility for deliveries made to students at the building.
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Directory Information (O.R.C.) 3319.321)
The district designates the following personally identifiable information contained in a student’s education record as “directory information.” It discloses that information without prior written consent, except for a profit-making plan or activity. Such information includes:
1. student’s name;
2. telephone number(s);
3. major field of study
4. participation in officially recognized activities and sports;
5. student’s height and weight, if a member of an athletic team;
6. dates of attendance (“from and to” dates of enrollment);
7. date of graduation; and
8. awards received.
Parent/guardian(s) may contact the school counselor’s office to request that the school not release any of the above information about the student.
Senate Bill 26 requires Ohio Public Schools to release directory information on sophomores, juniors, and seniors to armed forces recruiters. However, a student’s parent/guardian/custodian may submit a written request to the school district that the information not be released.
Please review Policy 8330 Student Records for more information on directory information and student records.
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Dress Code
In general, dress styles and grooming should be moderate in nature and should not cause undue attention to the student and/or disrupt a positive and safe learning atmosphere. Dress and grooming styles should not:
- divert the attention of the pupils from the primary function of the school, which is education; and • create in the minds of pupils both in this and other communities a misleading image of the student body and school program; and
- display slogans and logos that are offensive, racist, sexist, discriminatory, or promote practices considered inappropriate for students. This includes but is not limited to advertisement for alcohol, sex, tobacco, etc.
Addressing a student for dress code infractions may include: counseling of the student, communication with the parent/guardian, remedying of the infraction, and/or, disciplinary measures for repeat offenders, as deemed appropriate by building administration. The building administrator reserves the right to make judgement as to what is appropriate.
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Drop Outs (O.R.C. 4510.32)
Students who drop out of school will have their names turned over to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to have their driver’s license revoked.
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Elevator Usage
Students will not use the elevator without permission from the office. Usually, students need access to the elevator for a limited time period due to health concerns, surgery, or an accident. Students with handicaps may choose one person to ride the elevator with them to assist with their needs. An electronic elevator key or pass will be issued to the student for the duration of this need. The key is the property of the school and may be revoked at any time for misuse. A $10 deposit may be charged for issuing the key. A fee will be assessed if it is lost, stolen, or not returned in a timely manner.
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Emergency Medical Forms
Accidents can and do happen.It is essential that we are able to contact a parent/guardian or a reliable adult in the event of an emergency. Please complete the emergency medical authorization form online. If an emergency arises during school hours due to an illness or injury to a student, school personnel will attempt to notify the parent/guardian. If not successful, one of the other emergency contacts telephone numbers listed on Infinite Campus will be called.
During the school year, there may be changes in addresses and telephone numbers. Updates to your contact information can be made by logging into the Infinite Campus Parent Portal at: www.pickerington.k12.oh.us.
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Emergency Removal of Student
If a student’s presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disruption in the academic process, taking place either within a classroom or elsewhere on school premises, the student may be removed from the curricular, extra-curricular, or co-curricular activity or school premises on an emergency basis as dictated by board policy.
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Equal Opportunity
The Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of the Protected Classes of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and transgender identity), disability, age (except as authorized by law), religion, military status, ancestry, or genetic information (collectively, "Protected Classes") in its educational programs or activities.
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Fees/Fee Waiver
On an annual basis, the District Board of Education adopts rules and regulations establishing a schedule of fees for materials used in our courses of instruction. Consumable materials become the student’s property. Families who are financially unable to pay for necessary materials should refer to board policy for fee waivers. Applications are available in the school office. Failure to pay school fees will result in school records (i.e., grades and credits) being held until payment is received. Note: The premiums for the insurance coverage for Chromebooks and/or iPads (Technology Protection Plans) are not subject to waiver or reduction. This is optional coverage that can provide up to $400 in coverage for accidental damage or destruction of District issued Chromebooks and/or iPads.
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Field Trips
Student participation in a field trip requires submission of a field trip permission statement signed by an authorized adult and a completed emergency medical form (completed online), appropriate student behavior, and appropriate attire that presents a positive image of the school. The student code of conduct needs to be followed on all field trips. A student’s participation on a field trip may be restricted based on behavior.
Parents/guardians(s) attending field trips must follow the board policy for volunteers and visitors.
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Food
Foods and drinks are to be consumed only in the cafeteria/commons area. No food or drink is to be taken into hallways, classrooms, courtyard, or outside without prior approval from the building administrator. Students may drink water in class. No food items are to be delivered to the schools (i.e. fast food/pizza).
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Grade Point Average/Class Rank
An accumulative grade point average (G.P.A.) is maintained in the guidance office for each student. All graded courses are used in the calculating the G.P.A. The accumulative G.P.A. will be used to determine class rank. G.P.A. is calculated at the conclusion of each semester.
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Grading Practices: Guiding Principles for K-12
• The purpose of grading is to communicate the level of mastery of course content standards to stakeholders.
• Teachers should provide clear and timely communication to parent/guardian(s) and students about the grading criteria and the student’s level of mastery.
• Student evidence of learning should be aligned with grade-level content standards. Giving students extra credit or grades for activities (e.g., bringing in canned goods, classroom materials, parent/guardian(s) signatures, or participating in non-curricular activities) do not show evidence of learning.
• The grading system ensures consistency and equity across grade levels, content areas, and schools.
• The grading system measures, reports, and documents academic progress and achievement separately from work habits, character traits, attendance, and behaviors, so that educators and other stakeholders can accurately determine the difference between learning needs and behavioral or work-habit needs.
• The grading system is not used as a form of punishment, control, or compliance.
• Re-teaching and reassessment are a part of the instructional cycle.
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Grading Scale
Seventh through twelfth grade students will receive report cards each quarter (9 weeks) through the parent information system.
Semester and yearly averages are computed on a four-point scale.
(A+ will not be used, allowing A to be a perfect score)
Grading Scale
9/12 Weeks Grade
Semester/Year
Percent
Letter Grade
Value
Range When
Averaging Letter Grades
Sem/Yr Final
Grade
100-93
A
4.00
4.00-3.88
A
92-90
A-
3.75
3.87-3.50
A-
89-87
B+
3.25
3.49-3.13
B+
86-83
B
3.00
3.12-2.88
B
82-80
B-
2.75
2.87-2.50
B
79-77
C+
2.25
2.49-2.13
C+
76-73
C
2.00
2.12-1.88
C
72-70
C-
1.75
1.87-1.50
C
69-67
D+
1.25
1.49-1.13
D+
66-63
D
1.00
1.12-.088
D
62-60
D-
0.75
0.87-0.67
D
Below 60
F
0.00
0.66-0.00
F
WEIGHTED GRADE SYSTEM
Weighted credit is determined by multiplying regular credit by the following factors: Honors/Pre-AP 1.125, articulation agreements 1.1875, and AP/CCP 1.25.
Weighted Grade System (High School Courses Only)
Letter
Grade
Regular
Course
Honors / Pre-AP
Articulation Agreements
CCP,
Advanced Placement
A
4.00
4.50
4.75
5.00
A-
3.75
4.22
4.45
4.69
B+
3.25
3.66
3.86
4.06
B
3.00
3.38
3.56
3.75
B-
2.75
3.09
3.27
3.44
C+
2.25
2.53
2.67
2.81
C
2.00
2.25
2.38
2.50
C-
1.75
1.97
2.08
2.19
D+
1.25
1.41
1.48
1.56
D
1.00
1.13
1.19
1.25
D-
0.75
0.84
0.89
0.94
F
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
Definitions:
Standard courses are aligned to Ohio's learning standards.
Honors level/Pre-AP courses align to Ohio’s learning standards and extend student learning through extended learning experiences.
Articulation Agreements are written agreements between high schools and colleges that allow students to earn college credit for high school courses that align with the content of college courses. Articulation Agreements stipulate the course of action for students to obtain transcripted college credit.
College Credit Plus (CCP), formerly Post Secondary Education Options Program (PSEOP), courses offer students who meet the postsecondary institution’s criteria the opportunity to participate in college courses on a college campus or taught by high school faculty in the high school setting. Students receive both high school and transcripted college credit. CCP students who earn an F or fail to complete the course will be required to reimburse the District at full cost. Students dropping CCP or dual credit courses will adhere to the policies of the postsecondary institution, which may include consequences for course withdrawal after a published deadline.
To ensure accurate reporting of student progress in CCP courses while maintaining fidelity to the district's postsecondary partners, student grade reporting for interim periods within academic quarters and for the mid-semester report card will be reported on a pass/fail basis, with a rounded sixty (60) percent considered passing. Such reporting will contain a notification that final grades are cumulative for the semester.
Advanced Placement is a program run by College Board that allows you to take courses in high school in which you can earn college credit and/or qualify for more advanced classes when you begin college. They are designed to give you the experience of an intro-level college class while you’re still in high school. You can get college credit for the class if you can pass the AP exam.
Advanced Standing Programs (ASP) are college credit bearing courses and include College Credit Plus (CCP) and Advanced Placement (AP).
Graduates in the top ten of their class will be recognized as “Decem Decori” (10 with honor). Graduates with a 4.0 or higher in their class will be recognized as “Optima Supra” (above the best).
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Graduation Approved Regalia (BP 5460.02)
In keeping with the tradition of recognizing academic excellence at graduation, the approved lists of regalia (cords, medals, stoles, and administrator approved pins) are the only items that will be permitted to adorn the graduation gown. Any additional items worn by students will result in the student being asked to remove those items prior to the ceremony in order to participate.
The following is the approved list of cords, medals, and stoles:
- Decom Decori - purple (North)/white (Central) cord, red cord & medal
- Optima Supra - red cord & medal
- Distinguished Scholar - medal only
- National Honors Society (NHS) - Gold Cord
- National Art Honors Society – Rainbow Cord
- National Spanish Honor Society – Red/Yellow Cord
- Student Council – Stole
- Class Officer – Stole
Pins for school programs/organizations are permitted. (All pins must be approved by school administration prior to graduation.)
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Graduation Exercises (BP 5460.02)
Commencement is an extra-curricular ceremony conducted by Pickerington Schools to honor its graduating students. Participating in the commencement exercise is a privilege and not a right. Students are expected to behave in a manner befitting the dignity and importance of this event. All fees must be paid in full in order to participate in the commencement ceremony. Those not wishing to conform to behavioral expectations may desire to receive their diploma in an alternative setting.
Undergraduates who misbehave during the graduation ceremony will be subject to school discipline. Misbehavior at commencement exercises violates the Code of Conduct.
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Graduation Requirements (BP 5460)
To graduate from a Pickerington high school the student must:
1. Complete the school year of the year in which they graduate. (Attend until the last scheduled regular school day unless other arrangements have been made or otherwise approved by District administration.)
2. Students must earn 20 credits to graduate. Specific requirements for subject areas are outlined in board policy. To receive a diploma, students must meet the testing and curriculum requirements in effect at the time they completed the high school curriculum. Date of diploma indicates graduation requirements in effect at that time. This will apply unless modified by state law.
3. If the student has no outstanding un-served discipline, including but not limited to school suspension, out-of-school suspension and expulsion, the Superintendent, at their discretion, has the authority to waive this graduation requirement regarding student (senior) attendance until the last regularly scheduled school day.
4. Successfully complete the curriculum of the high school or the Individualized Education Program (IEP) developed for the student pursuant to State law. Successful completion of the curriculum or IEP includes completion of the school year in the year, which the student is to graduate, and having serving any outstanding discipline that has been ordered by school personnel.
5. Have all outstanding fees and/or debts paid to the school in order to receive their diploma.
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Hall Passes
A student who needs to move about the building is required to have a proper hall pass from their teacher and move immediately to the designated area. A student’s hall pass use can be restricted at the discretion of the building administrator.
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Health Concerns
If your student has a health concern or a medical diagnosis, please provide the school nurse medical the most up to date documentation from your student’s health care provider. Mutual understanding about health concerns will help us to provide better care for your student while at school. Please update your student’s medical information at the start of every school year and as necessary when health status and diagnosis change.
School personnel will provide basic first aid and care for student injuries and illnesses that occur during the school day. If an emergency arises during school hours due to an illness or injury, school personnel will attempt to notify the parent/guardian. If unsuccessful, one of the emergency contacts listed in Infinite Campus will be contacted. Once the parent/guardian is notified, it is expected that your student is picked up from school in a timely manner.
Please ensure that your contact information is correct. Updates to your contact information can be made by logging into the Infinite Campus Parent Portal at:
https://pickeringtonoh.infinitecampus.org/campus/portal/parents/pickerington.jsp
SCHOOL HEALTH CLINIC
The school health clinic is available to students who may become ill or injured during the school day. Ill or injured students should report to the school health clinic prior to contacting the parent/guardian. It is important to keep your student home from school if they have an elevated temperature above 100.0 or a contagious disease like chickenpox, flu, vomiting, diarrhea, colds, strep throat and “pinkeye.” Students who are present at school with signs or symptoms of illness will be sent home and must be fever and symptom-free for 24 hours prior to returning to school.
SCREENINGS
Hearing and vision screenings are conducted according to the Ohio Department of Health guidelines for students in grades: kindergarten, first, third, fifth, ninth and eleventh grade and all new students to the school district. Vision screenings will be conducted for all seventh-grade students. The parent/guardian will be notified if their student does not pass the screening.
IMMUNIZATIONS
State required immunizations or exemptions must be on file within the first 14 days of school attendance per Ohio Law and district policy. Any student who does not meet the minimum state required immunizations or exemptions will be excluded. Please submit your student’s up-to-date immunization record to the school health clinic.
MEDICATION
Medication prescribed by a health care provider: State of Ohio law and district policy require that students requiring administration of prescription medication during the school day must have a completed Medical Authorization Form on file in the school health clinic. This form must be completed by the prescribing health care provider, signed by the parent/guardian, and must be provided to the health team prior to administration of the medication to the student. This form is located in our school health clinics and on our district website.
Additionally, the medication must be presented to school personnel by the parent/guardian in its original container with the pharmacy label. The pharmacy label must include the student’s name, provider’s name, name of the medication, dosage to be given, and time to be administered. Any change from the original order must be provided in writing from the student’s prescribing provider.
FDA-approved non-prescription medication: If non-prescription medications are required to be given at school, the parent/guardian must sign the non-prescription medication form for their student. The medication must be in the original sealed container and accompanied by a completed non-prescription medication form with the student’s name, name of the medication, dosage to be given, time to be given, date to be started, and date to be discontinued. The non-prescription medication form can be found in the school health clinic or on the district website.
All non-prescription medication (including cough drops) must be stored in a school clinic. Dosages exceeding manufacturer’s will require a medication authorization form completed by a treating health care provider.
Students are not permitted to transport medications to and from school. All medications are to be delivered to school by the parent/guardian. The parent/guardian must pick up any unused medications before the end of the school year or the medications will be discarded.
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Honor Rolls
We recognize academic achievement with three honor rolls:
Distinguished Honor Roll 3.750 -– 5.000
High Honor Roll 3.250 -– 3.749
Honor Roll 3.000 -– 3.249
The yearlong G.P.A. will be an arithmetic average of the student’s G.P.A. in each of the first three (3) grading periods that school year.
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Honors Diploma
High school students can gain state recognition for exceeding Ohio’s graduation requirements through an honors diploma. Students challenge themselves by taking and succeeding at high-level coursework and in real-world experiences.
For more information please visit: Ohio Department of Education – Honors Diploma Information
Applications are available to students online: Honors Diploma Student Application
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I.D. Cards
For High School students: Replacement I.D. Cards are available at a cost of $5.00 to the student. For Junior High students: See your building administrator for further replacement instructions. I.D. cards may be needed for entrance into a school building and/or sporting events.
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Incompletes
1. Students who will receive a quarter or semester grade of “I” will be changed to the appropriate grade when the work is completed.
2. When computing final GPAs and end of the grading period GPAs, all “I” (incompletes) will compute to an F. If all work is not submitted within 10 school days after the end of the grading period, “I” incompletes will convert to an F.
3. All students with “I” will be omitted from the nine-week/twelve-week honor rolls. 4. After the due date, any grading period incomplete will result in a final grade and a semester average of “I” at the end of the course. In the case of a final grade incomplete, the following will happen.
A. The teacher will provide information to counselors and administrators regarding resolution of the incomplete work and deadlines for submission.
B. A comment will be made on the grade card.
C. After the allotted time, the final grade of an “I” will be changed to an F.
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Interim Reports
Interim reports will be available half way through each grading period. The Parent Portal of Infinite Campus enables parent/guardian(s) to access their child’s grades. It is available to all parent/guardian(s) by using their user name and password; therefore, paper interims are NOT distributed. If parent/guardian(s) do not have Internet access, they may request a paper interim. Parent/guardian(s) may contact their teacher to request a progress report. The teacher will then print a progress report and give it to the student. The interim report may be in writing, in conference, or by telephone.
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Lockers (O.R.C. 3313.20)
School lockers are available upon request due to limited availability. The lockers are school property and are provided to students for the safekeeping of school items and personal items necessary for school. No other items are to be kept in the lockers. Lockers and the contents of the locker are subject to random searches at any time by school personnel and/or law enforcement officers. Students are urged to keep their lockers locked at all times and not give their combination to anyone. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen articles. Students may not decorate their lockers with drug/alcohol/tobacco advertisements, slogans, inappropriate pictures, or anything that is difficult to remove or a violation. Fees may be charged for damage to lockers.
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Loitering
Students shall not loiter in areas of the school building unless asked to do so by staff or assigned by their schedule. This includes restrooms, hallways, commons, and/or cafeteria. Students shall not remain in the school or on school property after the conclusion of the school day unless they are under the direct supervision of a staff member or coach. Students must exit the building no later than 30 minutes from the end of the school day. If a student fails to exit the building after a request by a staff member, they may be disciplined for insubordination.
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Make-up Work
Students will be permitted to receive credit for make-up work. Students who are absent on the day before a pre-announced quiz, test, or project will be required to take the quiz/test or present the project on the scheduled date unless new material was covered during the absence. Homework assigned before the absence is due upon the student’s return. The amount of time permitted to complete make-up work will be determined cooperatively by the teacher and student, but will not exceed the number of absent days. Students having in-school study (I.S.S.) and out-of-school suspension (O.S.S.) will be permitted to make-up all work missed.
Parent/guardian(s) may request homework assignments for their child on the second day of an absence. In order for the office to have the necessary lead-time to acquire these assignments, the request must be made before 10:00 a.m. Homework will be ready for pick-up at the end of the day. Parent/guardian(s) must be aware of the individual homework request policy for their child’s teachers. This policy may vary somewhat by school.
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Media Center
The media center is open during most school hours. Students wishing to visit the media center during their study halls will be permitted to do so. However, the media specialist will determine the number of students permitted to attend each period based on the media center’s schedule of classes. There are many resources found in the media center including books, Internet access, periodicals, and newspapers. The online card catalog gives students the availability of materials at all school buildings in the district. The availability of materials at Pickerington Public Library, as well as Columbus Public Library, can also be checked through the on-line gateway catalog.
The library media center rules are ”made’ so that students will respect the rights of others, and so that it is an educational area of learning. The use of the media center is a privilege.
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Non-school Sponsored Publications
Students who edit, publish, and/or wish to distribute non-school-sponsored handwritten, printed, or duplicated material(s) to their fellow students must secure permission in advance from the school building administrator. Upon approval of the building administrator, students may seek approval to post on the district PeachJar site.
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Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO)
Each of our schools extends an invitation to each family to join their parent-teacher organization. Please check notices sent home with your child concerning the various activities the PTO will conduct throughout the school year.
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Parent/Guardian Conferences
You are encouraged to schedule a conference at any time to discuss your child’s progress. This is perhaps one of the best means of communication for the child, the parent/guardian(s), and the school personnel.
Preplanned parent/guardian-teacher conferences are held in the fall and winter and can be found on the school district calendar. These conferences are very important to both parent/guardian(s) and teachers. Parent/guardian(s) will have the opportunity to know and understand more fully the progress of your child in school. The conference enables teachers to better understand each child and parent/guardian(s)’ expectations. Parent/guardian(s) are urged to make every effort to schedule a conference during the scheduled days. Information regarding conferences is sent home with students approximately two weeks before the conference dates. If schools are doing virtual, a parent/guardian can request an in person.
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Parking
The board recognizes that students might desire to drive their own vehicles to school. In compliance with state law, student drivers under age 17 are not permitted to transport more than one person who is not a family member unless the driver is accompanied by their parent, guardian, or custodian. Students are discouraged from transporting other students to and from student activities, events, and programs.
Licensed student drivers who elect to drive to school must secure a parking permit. A $15 fee is required. If a student loses a pass, a replacement fee of one-half the regular fee will be charged. Only one (1) replacement permit will be issued per school year. Students will occupy only one parking spot (no angle parking). Faculty and visitors must park in their designated areas. Handicapped areas are clearly marked. Students going to the parking lot during the school day without permission from the office may receive discipline. Discipline may be issued to students who park in unauthorized or handicapped parking areas.
Having an automobile on school property is considered consent by the student to a search of their vehicle by school officials if there is reasonable suspicion to believe that the automobile contains items that may be a threat to the safety or security of the student, others, or property. The police and drug dog may be used for assistance in this area.
The school is not responsible for damage, theft, or vandalism to vehicles parked in the lot. Students who park in areas designated as visitors, staff, and/or handicapped without prior permission, or students who are not driving properly, may be subject to discipline. Parking passes can be revoked by an administrator when deemed necessary. Students who violate parking registration procedures may have their car impounded at owner’s expense.
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Pass/Fail
Students in grades 7-12 may take elective courses on a pass/fail basis based on the following guidelines. Courses eligible for the pass/fail option are identified on the pass/fail registration form. The student, their parent/guardian, and the teacher must complete and sign a pass/fail registration form. Interested students may secure this form in the Counselor's office.
1. "Electives" are defined on the pass/fail registration form that students must complete.
2. Students in grades 9-12 may take up to one (1) elective credit per year as Pass/Fail (in addition to P.E.) in all areas excluding core classes and foreign languages. PE classes may always be taken pass/fail and may be an additional pass/fail class beyond the student's pass/fail course selection.
3. Foreign Languages will only be considered an “elective” and eligible for pass/fail if, after a student has completed at least two years of a foreign language and wants to attempt a different foreign language.
4. Registration for a pass/fail course must be made during the first four (4) weeks of a course. Should a student decide later to take the course as a grade option (A, B, C, D, F), they must do so by the end of the final grading period. For students choosing the grade option (A, B, C, D, F), only the final grade will be changed. If a student elects to change a pass/fail course to a letter grade, this will count as their one pass/fail selection for the school year.
5. The procedure for adding or dropping a course shall also apply to pass/fail courses.
6. A grade of satisfactory (pass) or unsatisfactory (fail) will be given for progress in each grading period. The teacher should record all letter grades as usual in their grade book. Pass/fail will be recorded only on grade cards and permanent record cards.
7. Given extenuating circumstances, pass/fail grading may be utilized in grades 6-8 as determined by the building administrator in consultation with the teaching staff and by approval of the Superintendent/designee for all classes that are not for high school credit.
8. English Learners (EL) students (K-12) may take any class pass/fail as long as recommended by the appropriate teaching staff and by approval of the Superintendent/designee.
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PBIS and Limited Use of Restraint & Seclusion
Positive Behavior Intervention Support (PBIS) is a process supported by the Ohio Department of Education and Pickerington Local School District to promote and maximize academic achievement and behavioral competence (B.P. 5630.01). It is a three-tiered system of support for helping all students achieve important social-emotional and learning goals. We know that when we create learning environments that are student–centered, efficient and stable, our students excel in their learning. As part of PBIS, we will establish and explicitly teach clear rules and behavior expectations to students. We encourage and acknowledge desired behaviors. The expectations for all student behavior are clear In common areas throughout our building and in parking lots and playgrounds. Our school rules provide a safer school environment and allow more time for instruction. We apply consistent consequences and positive reinforcement for all students. By detailing every expected behavior and teaching students in a positive, proactive way, we provide common language for everyone in our district, including students, teachers, front office staff, and paraprofessionals.
We believe having common vision and values, language and experiences allows our school community to build and sustain environments where students can succeed and grow. This framework provides clear expectations for student behavior, outlines specific methods and strategies to encourage social skills, and a menu of corrective strategies when misconduct occurs.
Annual Notice of Board Policy 5630.01
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Personal Communication Devices (BP 5136)
For purposes of this policy, "personal communication device” (PCD) includes, but not limited to, computers, tablets (e.g., iPad-like devices), electronic readers ("e-readers”; e.g., Kindle-like devices), cell phones, smartwatches, smartphones (e.g., iPhones, Android devices, Windows Mobile devices, etc.) not owned by the district.
Students in grades 7-12 may use PCDs before and after school, during their lunch break, in between classes as long as they do not create a distraction, disruption or otherwise interfere with the educational environment, during after school activities (e.g., extra-curricular activities), or at school-related functions. Use of PCDs, except those approved by a teacher or administrator, at any other time is prohibited and they must be powered completely off (i.e., not just placed into vibrate or silent mode) and stored out of sight. Educational environment is defined as district properties including fields, buildings, and district provided transportation. Students should not loan out personal devices or district devices assigned to the student. The district is not responsible for items that have been loaned out, lost and/or not-returned.
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Personal Items
Students are discouraged from bringing valuable items to school. If brought to school, these items remain the responsibility of the student. Such items can be lost or damaged. The school cannot assume responsibility for losses or damages. Skateboards, scooters, hover boards, and roller blades/skates are NOT permitted.
If a student finds an item that does not belong to them, they must immediately turn it in to a staff member.
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Phone Calls
Students must have the approval of their teacher, building administrator or office staff before making a telephone call. Telephone calls should be limited to emergency situations unless approved otherwise. All student communication should be made from the classroom or office phone. Parent/guardian(s) are discouraged from directly communicating with their children during the school day.
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Physical Education Dress
Students in physical education classes may be required to wear appropriate attire: shorts, sweat suit, gym shoes, etc. Failure to dress for class may result in failing the class. The physical education teacher will distribute information regarding appropriate attire, and course requirements, at the beginning of each semester. Students may opt to take physical education as a pass/fail course and must follow the guidelines as established by the Physical Education Department. Students are responsible for their clothes and personal items. A combination lock is needed for physical education lockers. The school will not be responsible for lost or stolen items.
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Publicizing Great Things About Our Students
The district frequently has the opportunity to celebrate accomplishments of our students, including award recipients, participants in unique classroom projects, involvement in fine arts programs, athletics, and other activities worth recognizing and promoting.
Sometimes, this recognition appears on district and school websites, in print publications, and in district-controlled social media, including Facebook and Twitter feeds. This recognition may include photos of students, as well as their names, school, grade and teacher’s name. It also may include pictures or other representations of students’ artistic work, including visual and written pieces. We also occasionally will have members of the local media visiting our buildings to cover special events and unique approaches to education being offered by our teachers. Media access to students does not happen within our schools without district knowledge and supervision, and we do not provide direct access to students when the media is covering stories or topics that might be considered controversial or negative.
Most parent/guardian(s) enjoy seeing their children included in the day-to-day celebration of all the great things happening in our schools. For that reason, default consent and release for this type of recognition is granted to the district. However, we know there are a few parent/guardian(s) who prefer that their children be excluded from such acknowledgement and recognition.
Action is only required by parent/guardian(s) who wish to deny this consent. We require those parent/guardian(s) to inform us, in writing, of their desire to have their children excluded from district managed recognition by downloading a form available on the district website, filling it out, and returning it to their child’s school. Parent/guardian(s) are asked to do this by September 1 each fall to ensure we have a current list of students whose activities should not be publicly acknowledged by the district on the website, on social media, or in other public forums.
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Quiet Study Time/Detention
The schools operate a quiet study time (Q.S.T.)/detention program. This discipline option is used is at the discretion of the building administrator/designee. Proper behavior is required of those who are assigned; it is after school time period of quiet study --– all students are expected to have ample schoolwork to do. If a student is late to Q.S.T., they may not be permitted to stay and may receive additional consequences. If a student fails to serve Q.S.T. assigned hours, more discipline may result.
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Restrooms
Students must use the restroom closest to the classroom from which they are excused. Students feeling ill must report to the clinic or office and not remain in the restroom. Disciplinary action may result if proper procedures are not followed.
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Safety
Please report all safety issues to the office. Students who feel uncomfortable reporting this information to the office may see a teacher or a counselor. Additionally, concerns can be reported to the Safer Ohio School Tipline by calling 844-723-3764. Calls to the Safer Ohio School Tipline can be made anonymously.
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Safety Drills
Fire exits for each classroom are prominently posted. Students are expected to know the exit routes from each classroom and exit procedures. Periodic drills are held throughout the school year.
Students are to leave all books and personal effects (except purses) in the classroom. Students are expected to take all drills seriously and exit the building in an orderly manner. All students must stay with the adult in charge. Leaving the reporting area (i.e. sitting in cars or leaving the property, etc.) will result in disciplinary action.
Several types of emergency/safety drills are conducted throughout the year, including fire, tornado, medical and school intruder drills. These drills are held to acquaint students with proper emergency/safety procedures and evacuation routes. Each student will be instructed of their responsibilities during these drills.
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Sales
Only school-approved fundraisers are permitted at school. No personal sales are permitted. All school fundraisers must have prior administrative approval.
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Schedule Changes
Refer to Board Policy 5421: Grading & Assessment
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School Counseling Services
School counselors design and deliver school counseling programs that improve student outcomes. They lead, advocate, and collaborate to promote equity and access for all students by connecting their school counseling program to the school’s academic mission and school improvement plan. They uphold the ethical and professional standards of the American School Counseling Association and promote the development of the school counseling program based on the following areas of the National Model: define, deliver, manage, and assess.
School counselors deliver developmentally appropriate activities and services directly (instruction, appraisal and advisement, and counseling) to students and indirectly (consultation, collaboration, and referrals) for students. These activities and services help students develop the mindsets and behaviors for student success and seek to improve achievement, attendance and discipline. Through the school counseling program, school counselors ensure equitable academic, career and social/emotional development opportunities for all students.
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School-Sponsored Events
Student behavior at school-sponsored events relates directly to the individual, the entire student body, and the community. Students with inappropriate behavior at school-sponsored events will be subject to school disciplinary action (student handbook applies).
Students from other schools are permitted to attend dances at the high schools as a guest, with an approved form signed by the guest’s school administrator and parent/guardian. High school guest must be in grades 9-12 and/or no more than 20 years of age. Students leaving the dance will not be permitted to return. Students are not permitted to remain in the parking lot or outside the building while dances are going on.
Dances/Teen Nights – While most after-school activities are open to the general public, junior high school dances/teen nights are for RV/LV students only. The following rules apply to teen nights and dances:
1. Attire should be in good taste and comply with the school dress standards. The administrators have the discretion to decide what is and is not appropriate.
2. School rules apply during teen night. Failure to abide by school rules may result in disciplinary action and removal from future dances.
3. Students are not permitted to leave without being signed out by an adult.
4. Teen Night – Students are expected to have transportation home at that time. Students found waiting for transportation after a reasonable time period of 15 minutes will be excluded from attending the next scheduled dance. Repeat offenders will be excluded from remaining dances scheduled during the school year.
5. High school students are not permitted to attend junior high teen night dances. 6. Junior high students are not permitted to attend high school dances.
7. Any student who has been assigned OSS, ISS, or who are on principal’s probation, may be excluded from attending.
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Searches
School authorities are charged with the responsibility of safeguarding the safety and well-being of the students in their care. In the discharge of that responsibility, school authorities may search the person or property, including any district-owned technology, vehicles of a student, with or without the student'’s consent, whenever they reasonably suspect that the search is required to discover evidence of a violation of law or of school rules. The extent of the search will be governed by the seriousness of the alleged infraction and the student'’s age. Any unattended belongings will be searched to determine ownership and to confirm the item or its contents are not dangerous. Please refer to board policy for additional details. Any items found during a search may be used as evidence.
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Social Media for Students
Although social media can be useful for many purposes, care must be taken to maintain an atmosphere of respect consistent with the behavior expected of students in school as outlined in federal and/or state law, Board policy and school rules. Social media is defined as any form of online publication or presence that allows end users to engage in multi-directional conversations in or around the content on the Internet. Students are personally responsible for the content they publish online. Because digital content lives in perpetuity, anything you publish will be public for a long time. Use common sense and adhere to the social media for students policy when posting content online. The Social Media for Students Policy applies to the use of social networking in the classroom as well. The same rules and policies that govern student conduct at school apply to social networking activity when social networking is used in conjunction with a class assignment or other school activities. Any social media post that interferes with the educational process or creates a disruption within the school environment may result in school discipline.
Please refer to board policy 7540.03A Social Media Policy (Students)
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Study Hall
Study hall is a place for quiet study. Students are expected to take material to work on during study hall. Attendance in study hall is the same as a class. Students who drop a class may be assigned to a study hall instead of lunch and/or commons period.
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Surveillance Cameras
Surveillance cameras are mounted in and around various locations on school grounds. Students may be recorded at any time. Please refer to board policy 7440.01 on the district’s website for additional guidelines on video and electronic monitoring.
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Suspensions
There are two types of suspensions used in the buildings: in-school suspension (I.S.S.) and out-of-school suspension (O.S.S.). Students assigned to I.S.S. are removed from the mainstream of the student population. It shall be used within the structure of the disciplinary code and the nature of the offense. This study time is to be served in a designated area. Academic work may be made up provided the student abides by the rules and completes the work assigned. Failure to serve I.S.S. and/or to follow established guidelines will result in an Out-of-School Suspension. A tardy to I.S.S. is a violation of I.S.S. rules and may result in an O.S.S. A student assigned to I.S.S. must attend as instructed. Any un-served days due to an excused absence will be made up upon the student’s return.
A student suspended out-of-school will be permitted to do make-up work and receive 100% credit for work completed during their suspension. Students will not be penalized for missed work that cannot be duplicated outside of the classroom. Teachers may use a different assignment to determine mastery of the missing assignment. Suspended students are not to be on any Pickerington Schools property or to attend/participate at school events (home or away) on the days they are suspended. If school is cancelled during a suspended day, the suspension is extended by the number of days missed.
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Title IX & Section 504 (BP 2260, BP 2260 AG, BP 5517, BP 5517 AG, BP 2266, BP 2266 AG)
If you believe you have been discriminated against, please inform the building administrator. Then, if not satisfied, the complaint should be forwarded to the district’s Title IX and/or Section 504 Coordinator, who can be reached at 614-833-2110 or 90 East Street, Pickerington, Ohio. If not satisfactorily settled at this level, the complaint may be made to the District’s Title IX compliance officer(s), who will act as the district’s final mediator. Please refer to district policies on discrimination for additional guidance.
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Transfer of Rights
Under Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the rights accorded to a parent/guardian, which would include permission and consent, transfer to a student who turns 18 or enters an institution of post-secondary education. This would include all dual enrollment classes offered by the district in cooperation with a college or university. Parent/guardian(s) still maintain the right to access student records as long as the student is a dependent student for tax purposes.
Eighteen-year-old students are accountable for their own behaviors and actions. Compliance with the rules of the school including attendance will be addressed directly with the 18-year-old student. Correspondence from the school will be sent directly with the 18-year-old student.
It is the expectation of the student to keep their parent/guardian informed. If you have any questions about the transfer of rights, please contact your building building administrator.
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Visitors
Visitors, particularly parents/guardians, are welcome at school. To properly monitor the safety of students and staff, each visitor must report to the school office upon entering the building to sign in and provide proper identification to receive a visitor’s badge. Any visitor without a visitor/volunteer badge will be asked to return to the office. If parent/guardian(s) wish to meet with a staff member or observe a classroom, they should call to schedule an appointment and must complete the required form(s). All confidentiality rules apply when visiting our classrooms or observing students in our schools.
Appointments must be made at least 24 hours in advance by contacting the school office. Parent/guardian(s) are welcome to visit our school for special programs and class observations. Students are not permitted to invite friends or relatives to school during the school day.
Students are not to invite visitors to see them at school at any time. The student may only have a visitor to school if that visitor is accompanied by their parent/guardian(s). All visitors to any school must first stop at the office, sign in and pickup a visitor’s pass that they must keep with them at all times while in the building. Do not report directly to the classroom, lunchroom, or playground during school hours. This is done for the safety of all students. Additional guidelines regarding visitors in school can be found on the district website under policies: 9150 and 9150 AG.
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Vocational Programs
It is the policy of the Pickerington Board of Education that all vocational programs are available to students without regard to race, religion, sex, economic status, national origin, age, handicap, or sexual orientation.
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Volunteering in Pickerington Schools
All persons volunteering within Pickerington Schools must submit a Volunteer Application and sign a Volunteer Code of Conduct form. These forms are available in all of our school offices and on the district website. All volunteers (both new and current) having unsupervised access to children on a regular basis must have a background check.
Please refer to board policy 9150: School Visitors and administrative guideline 9150 AG: School Visitors for additional details.
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Withdrawing from School (BP 5130 & 5130 AG)
Please notify the school office before withdrawing a child from school. Office personnel will explain the procedures that must be followed.
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Year End Awards Assembly
All awards must be picked up in the guidance office by the student’s last day or they will be discarded.