Parent and Student Handbook

Each classroom teacher will address general classroom disruption through their classroom management plan. Classroom management plans will be reviewed with students regularly and provided to parents/guardians via email or newsletter; high school teachers will include this information in their course syllabi.. Actions may include in-class disciplinary action, telephoning the parent(s) or guardian(s) when feasible, and/or scheduling conferences with parent(s) or guardian(s) and/or other school staff. Only when the action taken by the teacher is ineffective, or the disruption is severe, will the student be referred to the principal or his/her designee. Failure to bring notebook, pencil, or homework, or failure to do work in class are not cause for disciplinary referrals; however ,multiple offenses of these actions may be considered defiance of a teacher in regard to these areas is cause for disciplinary referral. Parents or guardians should be notified by the teacher of students who consistently exhibit poor work habits.
The following provides a description of disciplinary problems that may occur and administrative options that may be taken by school officials.

The principal, or his/her administrative designee, has the authority to deny the privilege of riding a school bus when a student violates established rules and regulations or exhibits behavior deemed inappropriate or detrimental to the safety of others. At such times as it becomes necessary to deny a student the privilege of riding TCS buses, it becomes the parent’s sole responsibility to transport the student to and from school in a timely manner.

The Trussville City Board of Education provides bus transportation to students who are eligible to ride based on State and Local Board of Education provisions. Transportation is not provided for TCS transfer students. The Board expects students to follow all rules and regulations regarding school buses. Video cameras may be placed on school buses as an aid in monitoring bus activities.

The Trussville City Board of Education recognizes the effect of student dress upon safety and the learning environment. In order to maintain a safe environment that is conducive to learning, attire considered disruptive or that seriously distracts from the learning environment or that could present a health or safety problem is not allowed. Unless an exemption is authorized by a school administrator, the following rules concerning dress and grooming are mandatory for all students attending Trussville City Schools. Non-conformity to the dress code is a Class I offense and will be treated as such. In addition, students will be asked to come into compliance with the dress code immediately. Parents will be contacted and may be asked to furnish appropriate clothing.
Students should adhere to the following guidelines:

• All clothing must cover undergarments and midriff at all times and should cover the body in an appropriate manner. Midriff is defined as the region of the front of the body between the chest and the waist.
• Clothing which has open sides, back, or reveals midriff area is prohibited. Midriff is defined as the region of the front of the body between the chest and the waist.
• Tank tops must have a 2 finger width on all straps to be worn without coverage.
• Halter and spaghetti straps are not allowed unless worn underneath clothing that complies with dress code.
• All yoga pants, biker shorts, tights, leggings, or jeggings must cover the student’s undergarments and may not reveal midriff.
• Shorts, skirts, dresses and skorts should be measured using the student’s closed fist when hands are down at their sides.
• There should be no holes or rips revealing skin above the area of the closed fist on pants shorts, dresses, or skirts.
• Baseball caps, hats, sweatshirt hoods, toboggans and sunglasses are not to be worn at any time in the school building.
• Clothing and/or personal items bearing reference to alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, drugs, drug-related slogans, sexual activity, violence, or any other wording, drawing, or picture that in any way is questionable or can be reasonably interpreted as inappropriate are prohibited.
• Clothing or personal items, or visible references which identify a student as associated with a gang, or any subversive, unlawful, or unauthorized organizations are prohibited.
• Rubber or hard soled shoes must be worn.
• Pajamas, pajama pants, pajama onesies, snuggies, house shoes or bedroom slippers, and blankets are not allowed.
• Air pods or headphones may not be worn during the school day unless for academic purposes.
• Principals may establish different rules for dress for special occasions during the school day or extracurricular events.
• Transparent plastic bottles only. No metal bottles or cups. Clear liquids are preferred.

THE PRINCIPAL OR HIS/HER DESIGNEE SHALL HAVE FINAL AUTHORITY IN DETERMINING ACCEPTABLE OR UNACCEPTABLE SCHOOL ATTIRE.

EXCESSIVE TARDINESS TO CLASS
Arriving late to a class period; attendance tardy marked by the classroom teacher in a single semester. This tardy offense is not check-in or check-out tardies through the school office.

ANY OTHER VIOLATION
Other minor violations the principal or designee may deem reasonable to fall within this category after consideration of extenuating circumstances.

FAILURE/ REFUSAL TO COMPLETE ASSIGNMENTS
Referral by teacher after multiple attempts have been made to redirect the behavior to bring materials to class and/or complete assignments..

EXCESSIVE UNEXCUSED TARDINESS TO OR FROM SCHOOL
Arriving late to school after the tardy bell to school has rung or leaving school later during the school day before dismissal has occurred during a single semester. This tardy offense is not classroom tardiness marked by the classroom teacher.

DISRUPTION, DISRESPECT, DISTRACTION
Any conduct and/or behavior that interrupts or interferes with the normal flow of the education setting; shows lack of regard, courtesy, or consideration for others or draws attention away from the scheduled setting.
Examples: talking excessively, interrupting or provoking and interfering with the learning of other students.

HORSEPLAY/SHOVING/RUNNING
Rough play that is not intended to bring serious harm. Typically a minor distraction.

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION
Kissing, hand holding, intimate touching, cuddling, laying on each other, and prolonged hugging.

MINOR DEFACEMENT OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
Drawing on desks, leaving trash in parking lots, trash on lunch tables etc.

VIOLATION OF BUS PROCEDURES
Failing to follow proper procedures at bus stops, including but not limited to the failure to do any of the following:

• Waiting until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to get on or off the bus.
• Making sure the bus is stationary before crossing the roadway.  
• Looking to the right and left upon signal from bus driver to cross roadway
• Crossing behind the bus
• Removing seat belts before coming to a complete stop on buses for exceptional education students
• Bringing prohibited items
• Moving from assigned seat
• Securing all personal items
• Blocking or restricting aisles, steps or emergency exits
• Any other distraction of the driver.

Any other violation the principal may reasonably deem, falls in this class offense.
Any offense that occurs on the school bus beyond Class I or is repeated may be coded by the Class and Code outlined in Class II, III, or IV offenses and is subject to bus suspension and additional disciplinary action as outlined by the class of the offense. There is no appeal of disciplinary actions for minor bus infractions.

NON-CONFORMITY TO DRESS CODE
Failure to adhere to the established guidelines regarding appropriate attire in the school building or other school sponsored event.

GAMES OF CHANCE
Items such as playing cards, dice or video gambling devices, etc.

POSSESSION OF NUISANCE ITEMS
Any item which disrupts the instructional day is not allowed at school. Such items will be confiscated and may be claimed by a parent or guardian. Examples include but are not limited to: toys, trading cards, playing cards, noise makers, whistles, water balloons, etc.

USE OF PROFANE LANGUAGE
Minor swear words, casual, mildly inappropriate, or impolite but, not vulgar or hateful. This code is not to be used for language associated with race, disability, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, color, or basis of sex.

USE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES
The personal use of cell phones, laptops, watches, hand held video games, etc. during instruction time or other restricted times deemed by the principal or designee.

VIOLATION OF PARKING PRIVILEGE
Parking in the wrong spot, not having a parking pass, reckless driving on campus, etc. Cars may be towed as determined by administration.

 

Administrative Options:
1. Conference with student and/or parental/guardian contact.
2. Withdrawal of a privilege.
3. Temporary removal from class.
4. In-school suspension
5. Detention before or after school.
6. Other disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the principal or designee.

Students charged and disciplined under Class I or Class II procedures will not have the right to appeal any decision beyond the local school level.

FIRST OFFENSE:
Student Conference, warning, parent contact

SECOND OFFENSE:
Student Conference, 1 day suspension, parent contact

THIRD OFFENSE:
Student Conference, 3 day suspension, parent contact

FOURTH OFFENSE:
Student Conference, 5 day suspension, parent contact

FIFTH OFFENSE:
Student Conference, 10 day suspension, parent contact

SIXTH OFFENSE:
Student Conference, Removal for the remainder of the school year, parent contact.

Generally, there is no appeal of disciplinary actions for minor bus infractions. However, if a student is to be removed from the bus for more than four (4) weeks, parents may request a hearing with the Transportation Coordinator.

ANY OTHER VIOLATION
Any other offense that the principal or designee may reasonably deem to fall in this category. This may include the 5th class I escalating to class II.  

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY
The use or attempted use of any deceptive or dishonest method of improving a grade. Providing, receiving, or viewing answers to assignments, quizzes, or tests; accessing academic materials without permission (with or without the use of electronic devices). This also includes plagiarism, misuse of sources or any use of emerging technology such as: AI, etc.

OTHER INTIMIDATION OR HARASSMENT
Verbal, non-verbal, or written/printed communication maliciously threatening injury to another student, property or reputation of another; intent to extort money or any pecuniary advantage with the intent to compel the student so threatened, or any other student to do any act or refrain from doing any act against his/her will; threatening words or actions, coupled with an apparent ability to carry out the threat, creating a fear in the other student. This also includes any instigation of a fight as defined in the code of conduct. This includes but is not limited to religion, race, natural origin, disability, basis of sex or sexual orientation.

THREATS TO EXTORTION
Verbally or by a written or printed communication, maliciously threatening to accuse another of any crime or offense.

ESCALATED/EXCESSIVE DISRUPTION; PRANKS
Student behavior that significantly interferes with the normal operation of the school, classroom instruction, or safety of others. This level of disruption goes beyond a minor disturbance and requires intervention from the school administration.

GAMBLING
The intentional, unlawful participation in gambling activities involving amounts of more than $100.00.

INCITING STUDENT DISORDER
This refers to student actions, speech, or behaviors that intentionally or recklessly encourage or provoke students to disrupt the normal functioning of a school environment,

INDIRECT THREATS
The indirect, intentional threat by word or act to do violence to another student or TCS board employee, coupled with an apparent ability to do so, or the doing of some act which creates a well-founded fear in the person that such harm is likely. (May be upgraded to Class III)

ILLEGAL ORGANIZATION
Any on-campus fraternities, sororities, secret sororities, or non-school affiliated school clubs.

FALSE INFORMATION
This includes giving false student information, data, and concealment of information directly relating to school business. This includes, but is not limited to, forgery of any school document, parent or guardian notes, or other related material.  

OFFENSIVE TOUCHING
Unsolicited touching of another individual with sexual connotations, such as patting, pinching, or brushing against another’s body. (May be upgraded to Class III Offense)

DEFIANCE OF SCHOOL BOARD EMPLOYEE
Any verbal or non-verbal refusal to comply with a lawful direction or order of a school board employee.

POSSESSION OF POCKET KNIFE
Pocket knife, small or key chain variety, or similar instruments that would not normally be considered a weapon. (May be upgraded to Class III or IV Offense)

POSSESSION OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
Valued at less than $100 with the knowledge that it is stolen.

POSSESSION OF ITEMS THAT MAY BE IGNITED
(May be upgraded to Class III)

STEALING/LARCENY
The intentional, unlawful taking and carrying away of personal property, valued at less than $100.00, or possession of stolen property with the knowledge it is stolen.

STRIKING/SHOVING A STUDENT
Hitting, pushing, shoving or striking another student against that student’s will, and the student victim fails to respond with physical contact.

UNAUTHORIZED USE OF TECHNOLOGY
Unauthorized distribution or sharing of school or school related events through audio, cell phones, and other electronic communication devices with intent to cause disruption.

UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS OF COMPUTER SYSTEM

SKIPPING OR ELOPING
Absence(s) from class(es) without the permission of the teacher, administration but remaining on campus.

OBSCENE LANGUAGE
To another individual: swear words, obscene gestures, crude language or naughty jokes.

VANDALISM
Intentional and deliberate action resulting in or having the potential to result in damages of less than $200 to public property or the real estate of personal property of another. Restitution for TCS property will be required.
The parents, guardian, or other person having control of any minor under the age of 18 with whom the minor is living and who have custody of the minor shall be liable for the actual damages sustained to school property, plus the court costs, caused by intentional, willful, or malicious act of the minor. (Ala. Code §16-5-380) 

POSSESSION OF OVER THE COUNTER MEDICATION
More than a single dose based on product directions of over-the-counter medications, and over-the-counter medications that must be released for purchase by a pharmacist or the sale of which is restricted based on the purchaser’s age. Possession of any other substance which might create a hazard to the user’s health or safety or the health or safety of another is prohibited.
NOTE: If a student needs medication, including an over the counter medication while at school, even on a temporary basis, the parent should contact the school to obtain the necessary permission form for use of medication at school.

Class II violations may warrant police contact.

Administrative Options:
1. Parent or guardian contact and disciplinary action.
2. Detention
3. In-school suspension
4. Out-of-school suspension for one to five days.
5. Out-of-school suspension from six to ten days with the approval of the Assistant Superintendent.
6. Recommendation for referral to alternative school of no less than 3 days and a maximum of 10 with approval of the Assistant Superintendent.

This option may only be granted twice in a semester.
7. Recommendation for expulsion.
8. Restitution of property damages.
9. Five (5) Class II offenses will result in a Class III offense.
10. Disciplinary Probation.
11. Any actions included in Class I Other disciplinary action and deemed appropriate by the principal or designee.
12. Suspension of parking privileges.

Students with disabilities (Special Education) will be disciplined according to applicable Federal and State laws for students with disabilities (IDEA 2004, Rules of Alabama State Board of Education, Special Education Services). For additional information contact the Special Education Coordinator.

Class III violations may warrant police contact.

ANY OTHER VIOLATION
The principal or designee may deem reasonable to fall within this category after consideration of extenuating circumstances. *Multiple Class II infractions can be upgraded to a Class III. The 5th Class II Offense is the same as a Class III Offense.

BOMB THREAT
Any such communication which has the effect of disrupting the educational environment.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF
Willful and malicious injury or damages at or in excess of $200.00 to public property or to real or personal property belonging to another. NOTE: Principal (or Designees), in consultation with the Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, must complete a property damage report and submit it to the Teaching and Learning Department.
The parents, guardian, or other person having control of any minor under the age of 18 with whom the minor is living and who have custody of the minor shall be liable for the actual damages sustained to school property, plus the court costs, caused by intentional, willful, or malicious act of the minor.(Ala. Code §16-5-380)

DIRECT THREATS
The direct, intentional threat by word or act to do violence to another student or TCS board employee, coupled with an apparent ability to do so, or the doing of some act which creates a well-founded fear in the person that such violence is imminent. ( May be upgraded to Class IV)

INCITE, PARTICIPATE, PUBLICIZE STUDENT DISORDER
Leading, encouraging, or assisting in a major disruption which results in destruction or damage of private or public property or personal injury to participants or others.

HAZING
Willful action taken or situation created which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of any student. Willful act by any person alone or acting with others in striking beating, bruising, or maiming; threatening, or attempting to strike, beat, bruise, or maim or to do or threaten or attempt to do physical violence to any student of any educational institution or any assault upon any student made for the purpose of committing any of the acts or producing any of the results to such students as defined.

IGNITING OF ANY ITEM WITH A FUSE
Preparing, possessing, or igniting on school property any firework, firecracker, stink bomb or similar objects

IMITATION CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE
Unauthorized possession, transfer, use or sale of a substance other than a drug, which by dosage unit, appearance (including color, size, shape and/or markings), and/or by representations made, would lead a reasonable person to believe that the substance is controlled.  

POSSESSION OF PROHIBITED OBJECTS
Including, but not limited to, any knife, dagger, sword, box cutter, metallic knuckles, laser pointer, tear gas gun, BB gun, stun gun; cell phone gun; paintball gun, pellet gun, chemical weapon or device, including mace or pepper spray, or any other object which could be used in a threatening manner (includes replicas).

POSSESSION OF FIREARM
Discharge, possession, transfer, or sale of any facsimile or toy-type replica of a firearm or any other item resembling a firearm.

SABOTAGE OF COMPUTER OR SYSTEM
Unauthorized access resulting in data modification, disclosure of restricted information or tampering of the computer or computer system of any kind. Any other computer violations outlined in the TCS Acceptable Use Policy.

SEXUAL ACTS
Acts of a sexual nature including, but not limited to, battery, intercourse and indecent exposure.

LEWD CONDUCT
The written or verbal unsolicited or unwanted request for sexual favors, use of vulgar or sexually explicit comments, gestures or conduct, obscene or sexually explicit pictures; sexually oriented contact, “kidding”, teasing, or practical jokes directed toward another individual or offensive to a third party observer.

STEALING/LARCENY/GRAND THEFT
The intentional, unlawful taking and/or carrying away of property valued at $100.00 or more belonging to or in the lawful possession or custody of another.

TERRORIST THREAT (May be upgraded to ALSDE state code)
A person commits the crime of making a terrorist threat when he/she threatens by any means to commit any crime of violence or damage to property. Threat assessment is required.

TRESPASSING
Entering or remaining in any structure, conveyance, or property without being authorized, licensed, or invited; or having been authorized or licensed, is warned by an authorized person to depart and refuses to do so.

UNJUSTIFIED ACTIVATION OF SAFETY DEVICE
Deliberate triggering or use of school safety equipment or system without a legitimate reason.

LEAVING SCHOOL CAMPUS
Leaving the school campus during the student’s scheduled class time.

POSSESSION OR USE OF NICOTINE PRODUCTS
Having and/or using tobacco products. This includes lighters, matches, vapes, or paraphernalia.  

POSSESSION OF OBSCENE MATERIALS
Electronic or hard copy evidence of material that is sexually explicit and/or obscene.

FIGHTING
Any physical action involving violence or conflict between two or more individuals.

STRIKING/SHOVING SCHOOL BOARD EMPLOYEE
Physical act of aggression or unwanted physical contact directed toward an employee of the school system.

BULLYING
A continuous pattern of intentional behavior that takes place on or off school property, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored function. This includes, but is not limited to, cyberbullying or written, electronic, verbal, or physical actions that are reasonably perceived as being motivated by any characteristic of a student, or by the association of a student with an individual who has a particular characteristic.

The disciplinary action for such offenses will be suspension and/or recommendation for expulsion by the principal as authorized in the procedures previously stated.

Administrative Options:
1. Parent or guardian contact and disciplinary action
2. In-school suspension
3. Out-of-school suspension for one to five days
4. Out-of-school suspension for up to ten (10) days with the approval of the Assistant Superintendent and/or recommendation for expulsion with parent contact and conference.
5. Recommendation for referral to alternative school of no less than 5 days and a maximum of 10 with approval of the Assistant Superintendent. This option may only be granted twice in a semester.
6. Referral for a hearing with the Hearing Committee may be held for recommendations to the Alternative School for more than 15 days.
6. Recommendation for expulsion
7. Restitution of property damages
9. Any actions included in Class I Other disciplinary action and deemed appropriate by the principal or designee.
10. Suspension and/ or removal from the bus as deemed by the administrator.

Students and parents should be aware that the Hearing Committee may recommend a longer term of suspension, alternative placement including virtual school, community service, work detail, restitution, or referral to the Superintendent for possible expulsion from the Trussville City School System.

The commission of a Class III offense may also involve the interventions and/or prosecution by law enforcement authorities where necessary and/or appropriate.  

Students with disabilities (Special Education) will be disciplined according to applicable Federal and State laws for students with disabilities (IDEA 2004, Rules of Alabama State Board of Education, Special Education Services). For additional information contact the Special Education Coordinator.

ARSON
Willfully and/or maliciously burning any part of a building or its contents.

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT BATTERY
Intentionally causing bodily harm, disability, or permanent disfigurement; use of a deadly weapon.
NOTE: Principal (or Designees), in consultation with the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, must thoroughly investigate the allegation, and if there is credible evidence that an assault occurred, he/she must complete an aggravated assault report and submit it to the police. The victim must seek medical attention for this violation.

ALCOHOL
Unauthorized possession, use, transfer, sale, or procurement of alcohol or any substance with alcohol content; attending school or school related activities while being under the influence of any substance with alcohol content.

DRUGS
Unauthorized possession, transfer, use or sale of drugs or drug paraphernalia; intent to use, buy, or sell drugs/drug paraphernalia; being under the influence of drugs. “Drugs” also includes all illegal controlled substances, synthetic drugs, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter medications that must be released for purchase by a pharmacist or the sale of which is restricted based on the purchaser’s age. Possession of any
another substance which might create a hazard to the user’s health or safety or the health or safety of another is prohibited.
NOTE: If a student needs medication – including an over the counter medication - while at school, even on a temporary basis, the parent should contact the school to obtain the necessary permission form for use of medication at school.

EXPLOSIVES
Preparing, possessing, or igniting on school board property, explosives (including live projectiles) which have the potential to cause serious bodily injury or property damage.

POSSESSION OF DEADLY WEAPON BY STUDENT
Disciplinary action for any student who is determined by the Board of Education (a) to have brought a deadly weapon or firearm to school or (b) to have had a deadly weapon or firearm in his/her possession in a school building, on school grounds, on a school bus, or on a school-sponsored function shall be expelled from school for a period of at least one year, as outlined in TCS board policy (6.19).
NOTE: Possession of a firearm on school property or within 1000 feet of a school campus violates both federal and state laws. Such laws apply to all persons while on school property. The expulsion or suspension from school for a period of not less than one calendar year is mandated for all violations of this code.   

RAPE
A verified sexual assault with or without force.

ROBBERY
Taking money or other property from a person by force and/or intimidation.

SEXTING OR PORNOGRAPHIC MATERIAL
Alabama's child pornography laws make it a felony to produce (create), distribute, or possess obscene images, videos, and other materials that depict a minor younger than 17 engaged in an act of sexual conduct or lewd exhibition. Sexting is the sending of nude, sexual, or otherwise explicit images electronically, whether by text messaging, Internet messaging, social media, chat boards, or email.

TERRORIST THREAT
A verified threat as determined by the Trussville Police department and TCS threat assessment team. A terrorist threat by any means to commit any crime of violence or damage to property.

ILLEGAL SCHOOL ENTRY OR BURGLARY OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
Entering or remaining in a structure or conveyance with the intent to commit an offense therein during the hours the premises are closed to the public.

WEAPONS
Possession with intent to harm an individual or group Including, but not limited to, any knife, dagger, sword, box cutter, metallic knuckles, laser pointer, tear gas gun, BB gun, stun gun; cell phone gun; paintball gun, orbees gun, pellet gun, chemical weapon or device, including mace or pepper spray; any other weapon, instrument, or object which is used in a threatening manner and is seen by the individual being threatened as capable of causing harm (includes replicas) .

The commission of a Class IV offense will involve the interventions and/or prosecution by law enforcement authorities where necessary and/or appropriate and a hearing with the Board of Education. These offensives are outlined by the ALSDE discipline code.

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS — CLASS IV (INCLUDING BUS )

The disciplinary action for such offenses will be suspension and/or recommendation for expulsion by the principal as authorized in the procedures previously stated.
Administrative Options:
1. Out-of-school suspension for up to ten (10) days with the approval of the Assistant Superintendent and/or recommendation for expulsion with parent(s) or guardian(s).
2. Recommendation for disciplinary hearing with the Hearing Committee in accordance with state law..
3. Recommendation requires police involvement and discipline committee review.
4. Recommendation for expulsion.  5 .Suspension and/or removal from the bus as deemed by the administrator.

Commission of a Class IV:
Any Class IV offense by a student is punishable by suspension from school and a referral for a hearing. Students and parents should be aware that the Hearing Officer may recommend a longer term of suspension, alternative placement including virtual school, community service, work detail, restitution, or referral to the Superintendent for expulsion from the Trussville City School System for a Class IV offense.

FELONY CHARGES:
If a student is charged with a felony their parent /guardian should contact the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning to determine appropriate school placement during this time. Students charged with a felony will not be allowed back on any school property until the appropriate placement is determined.

Students with disabilities (Special Education) will be disciplined according to applicable Federal and State laws for students with disabilities (IDEA 2004, Rules of Alabama State Board of Education, Special Education Services). For additional information contact the Special Education coordinator

Students may be detained for disciplinary purposes at the discretion of the local school principal and professional staff of individual schools. Provided a student is detained before or after regular school hours, the student must be given notice of such detention. The principal or his/her designee must notify parent/guardian to arrange transportation. Students shall not be required to remain before or after school for more than one (1) hour for detention purposes. Transported students shall not be given before or after school detention on an involuntary basis without reasonable prior notification to the parents or guardians. In-school detention may include time out of non-core subjects for no more than 2 hours in total as the administrator determines.

In-school suspension or detention is a structured disciplinary action in which a student is isolated or removed from regular classroom and extracurricular activities but is not dismissed from the school setting nor counted absent during the period of in-school suspension. The principal or designee has the authority to assign students to the in-school suspension program for a reasonable and specified period or periods in the school day and of time not to exceed five (5) days. The principals and their staff should determine the scope of in-school suspension in their respective schools. In addition, the local school principal shall ensure that the following safeguards are met.

1. The student must be supervised by a member of the professional staff during in-school suspension.
2. The confinement area assigned to the student should be adequate and conducive to completing school assignments. 
3. The student shall be responsible for completing all class assignments, homework, examinations, etc. that are applicable to other students in his/her class(s), except that, students on in-school suspension shall not be permitted to participate in assignments that require class attendance (oral reports, recitations, etc.).
4. A student to be suspended with a recommendation for expulsion may not be placed on in-school suspension

To maintain order, minimize the risk of potential personal injury, property damage or disruption, or to permit an orderly investigation and evaluation of a suspected violation of school or school system rules, standards, or policies, principals may temporarily suspend a student pending a conference with the parent or guardian of the student and a final disciplinary decision. Suspension may also be imposed as a disciplinary measure as provided in the Code of Student Conduct. Suspension of students with disabilities will be subject to applicable limitations and requirements imposed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and its implementing regulations.

The Board recognizes its authority to maintain good order and discipline within the district’s schools. Therefore, the Board gives the school principal the authority to suspend a student.

The principal shall make an immediate effort (same day) to contact the student’s parents or guardians about the suspension. No suspended student shall be allowed to leave the school premises during the school day until the student’s parent, guardian, or proper school authorities assume responsibility for him/her. When a student’s parent, guardian, or other designated individual(s) cannot be notified, the student must remain on the premises until the end of the school day. At the end of the school day, the student will return home via normal transportation methods. The school principal/designee has the authority to suspend students from school for up to five (5) days and up to ten (10) days with the permission of the Assistant Superintendent when an expulsion recommendation is to be considered.

Suspended students will have 3 days from the last day of the suspension to turn in all assignments to their teachers at their base school. If a student is placed in Alternative School, the student is generally suspended 1-3 days prior to the placement. The student is responsible for completing the work missed during the time of suspension and getting the agreed upon work to the base school within the 3 day period.

When suspended, a student is prohibited from entering into any Trussville City Schools property and from attending or participating in school or School Board-related activities (for example, athletic events, cheerleading, plays, concerts, practices, etc.) even if the activity is held off school grounds.

Violation of this rule may result in additional charges of trespassing against the student. Graduating seniors who are under suspension at the time of graduation may be denied participation in the commencement exercises.

NOTIFICATION OF SUSPENSION
Prior to suspension, the student will be made aware of the charges and supporting evidence and given an opportunity to respond to them. The local school principal shall complete and provide the student with a notice of suspension prior to the departure from campus with copies to the student’s parent or guardian within twenty four (24) hours stating the reason(s) for such action. Immediate removal of the student from school premises is justified only when his/her presence threatens himself/herself, endangers school property, or seriously disrupts the orderly educational process. If immediate removal is necessary, the parents or guardians must be notified by phone or personally by the attendance supervisor or other school officials. In extreme emergencies, principals are given the authority to call upon law enforcement officials to remove such students. The principal shall advise the assistant superintendent by phone regarding forced removals and shall follow the oral contact with a written confirmation to the assistant superintendent.

LENGTH OF SUSPENSION
The suspension of a student shall not exceed five (5) days except as follows:

1. Any student suspended more than three times during a school year shall be required to appear with parents or guardians before the school principal to explain his/her situation. The school administrators shall n schedule the conference within five (5) school days.If the student or parents or guardians fail to appear as ordered, an alternative placement or expulsion proceedings may be initiated.
2. If an incident or violation, or series of incidents or violations, are serious enough to warrant suspension, said suspension may not exceed ten (10) complete school days pending Board action on an expulsion recommendation. Provided the Board does not render a decision within the ten (10) school-day period, after expulsion recommendation consideration, the school may readmit the student to school within the ten (10) school-day period based on mutual agreement of the principal and Superintendent. In such a case, the principal and Superintendent will have decided not to recommend expulsion.

TERMS OF SUSPENSION

1. While suspended, a student may not attend school functions or enter school property for any reason during or after the school day.
2. When a student is suspended, his/her teachers shall be notified immediately concerning the date and duration of the suspension.
3. A suspended student must comply with the full length of the suspension unless the principal approves an alternative.
4. Graduating seniors who are under suspension at the time of graduation may be denied participation in the commencement exercises.

RE-ENTRY AFTER SUSPENSION
When a student returns to school after the first suspension in an academic year, the readmission must be preceded by a pre-or post-conference with the principal or designee and counselor. The conference must include the parents or guardians, unless otherwise approved by the principal. The student is readmitted on approval of the principal or his/her designee. The student may be subject to disciplinary probation for the remainder of the semester.

Alternative placement is designed for students who are not able to function in the structure of a regular school setting. A decision to place a student in the alternative setting will be based on an administrative investigation of the reported incident and a review of student records. The school system will require students in alternative education programs to meet state graduation requirements. The system will maintain evidence of student accomplishments and progress in the programs.  

A student may be recommended for a short-term (three to ten days) or long-term placement depending on the severity of the infraction. Students in punitive alternative placement may not be allowed to attend functions or events at the base school until the length of placement has been met.

ALTERNATIVE ASSIGNMENT:
Students may be allowed to attend an alternative school under the conditions set forth by the Board of Education in order to earn admittance or re-entry to the local school. All grades earned at the alternative school should be transferred to the student’s zoned school upon admittance or re-entry.

• A maximum of 30 days in the alternative school by recommendation of the administration or the Hearing Committee.
• Recommendations of no less than 30 days and no more than 50 days must be approved by the Board of Education and/or the Superintendent.

The student MUST serve the days assigned. If a student is absent or suspended, those days will not count towards the days served.

A student MAY serve a total time of up to one (or the remaining of ) full academic year at the direction of the Board of Education.

A student may be expelled from school if an offense is serious enough to warrant such action. The authority to expel a student is retained solely by the Board of Education. Students who are recommended for expulsion may be suspended until such time as the Board meets to consider the recommendation for expulsion.

The Superintendent will notify the student or the student’s parent/guardian, in writing, of any action taken by the Board. The term of an expulsion may extend to the maximum permitted by law. The Board may impose such reasonable limitations on the student’s right to re-enroll in the school system following expiration of expulsion as may be permitted by law. A student who withdraws from school prior to the Board’s consideration of a proposed expulsion may not re-enroll in the school system until the Board holds a hearing or other appropriate proceeding regarding the recommended expulsion.

After being expelled from school, a student shall be prohibited from participating in or attending all school-related functions or activities. A student found to be on Trussville City Schools’ property during expulsion and not escorted by a parent or guardian, shall be subject to being trespassed from all school property for the remainder of the expulsion period.

EXPULSION OF STUDENTS WITH EXCEPTIONALITIES
Students with exceptionalities may be expelled from school if an offense is serious enough to warrant such an action. It should be noted, however, that such an extreme action will result in a change of placement, and the IEP Committee will have to convene to consider an alternative instructional program.

A "Long-Term Suspension" is defined as the removal of a student from their regular school environment for more than 10 but fewer than 90 school days per incident, for disciplinary reasons. A "Long-Term Alternative School Placement" is the assignment of a student to an alternative school for more than 15 school days per incident for disciplinary purposes. Expulsion is the exclusion of a student from their regular school environment for 90 to 180 school days per incident for disciplinary reasons.

When the principal or their designee recommends a Long-Term Suspension, Long-Term Alternative School Placement, or Expulsion as a consequence, the student will be granted a hearing with the Teaching and Learning Hearing Committee. If the principal or their designee believes the student is guilty of an offense, and recommends more than 15 days of Alternative School placement, the student will be suspended pending a hearing with the Teaching and Learning Hearing Committee.

The purpose of the hearing is to determine both whether the student is guilty of the charged offenses and to decide the appropriate disciplinary action if the charges are substantiated.

All suspensions prior to the hearing will remain in effect, but the hearing must occur within 10 days of the out-of-school suspension.

School officials must contact the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning and submit the Due Process Referral Form for the alleged offenses, along with any other required documentation, to the Teaching and Learning/Student Services Department within 24 hours of the decision to suspend the student, unless an extension of an additional 24 hours to complete the investigation is requested and approved by the Assistant Superintendent.

The student and parent/guardian will receive written notice of the hearing consistent with the requirements of state law. The failure of the parent/guardian to respond to the notice letter will result in a waiver of the hearing.

If not waived by the parent/guardian, the disciplinary hearing will occur within 10 school days after the initial implementation of any consequence pending a hearing, unless the parent and school district agree otherwise or good cause is shown by the school district. At least 5 days before the hearing, the student or parent/guardian may review any information that may be presented as evidence at the hearing including written statements made by witnesses related to the alleged incident, where such review is consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) and other relevant state and federal laws. The parent and school district may agree to a reduced timeline for reviewing evidence or an expedited hearing timeline for the benefit of the student.

The Hearing Committee will provide a copy of the decision to the following:

• Parent or Guardian
• Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning.
• School principal or designee
• Alternative Program administrator (if the student is being referred)
• School Principal or designee shall update the student’s incident record in PowerSchool

Students with disabilities (Special Education/504) will be disciplined according to applicable Federal and State laws for students with disabilities (IDEA 2004, Rules of Alabama State Board of Education, Special Education Services). A manifestation meeting of the IEP or 504 team will be held prior to a Teaching and Learning Hearing.