Lewisburg High School - 2020-2021 Student-Parent Handbook - SCHOOLinSITES
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Lewisburg High School
2020-2021
Student-Parent Handbook
This School Handbook has been written to provide important information concerning specific rules, policies and
procedures related to the safety and operation of LHS. In order for schools to operate safely and efficiently,
parents, guardians and students must be familiar with and abide by the expectations, procedures and rules
outlined in the handbook.
The student handbook contains district policy and contains general guidelines and information. This handbook’s
content may be changed from time to time throughout the current school year. If you have any questions
regarding this handbook, please contact the administration.
1
2020-2021
Lewisburg High School Student and Parent Handbook
Grades 9 – 12
PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE
I am honored to join the Lewisburg High School community. With our nation and community facing the threat of
COVID-19 the 2020-2021 school year is sure to be filled with many challenges. As a school leader I feel it is
important to frame our mindset for the year. Our motto this year will be “Overcome.” This idea demands that we
face the obstacles, challenges, and changes before us with Flexibility, Adaptability, and Resilience. With these
attributes our teachers and students will go F.A.R. These are not just life skills and attitudes that result in success in
school but will serve you well throughout life. As your new principal, I will strive to model these characteristics and
lead our school safely to greater heights. I look forward to learning and growing together throughout this
experience. Go Patriots!
Kris Perkins, Principal
ADMINISTRATION
Kris Perkins.....…………………………………………………….………………….Principal
Spence Rodman ……………………………………………………….…...Assistant Principal
Regina Ross...…..…………………………………………………….…….Assistant Principal
Lawanda Wallace………………………………………………….….…….Assistant Principal
COUNSELORS
Regina Ammons….…………………………………….……..…..Counselor, Last Names A-G
Shelly Dennie..……………………………...……..……………..Counselor, Last Names Q-Z
Annie Martin…..………………………………....…………..……Counselor, Last Names H-P
2Table of Contents
• General Information
• Bell Schedule
• School Calendar
• Bus Rules
• Cell Phone Policy
• Check Out Procedures
• Classification of Students
• Code of Discipline
• Conferences
• Dress Code
• Deliveries to School
• Early Graduation
• Exemption Policy
• Graduation Requirements
• Grading Scales
• Late Arrival
• Lunch Information
• Lunch Procedures
• Makeup Policy
• Medicine
• Parent Portal Access
• PDA
• Reporting Safety Issues
• Restroom Policy
• Revopay
• Sale of Personal Property
• Schoology Information
• Snacks
• Student Driver Information
• Tardy Policy
• Tobacco Free Policy
• Traffic Map
• VIP Information
• COVID Specific Policies
3General Information
School Hours:
• 7:00 A.M. – 2:45 P.M.
• Student car riders may begin entering the front doors at 7:00 A.M.
• Please do not drop students off before 7:00 A.M. as there is not supervision prior to this
time.
• Student drivers may begin entering the gym doors from the student parking lot at 7:20.
(This allows for reduced numbers of students in the hallways during arrival.)
• Students should be picked up by 3:00 P.M. each day as there will be no supervision after
that time.
• Car riders should be dropped off and picked up on the north side of LHS and will enter
and exit on C Hall. (See traffic map)
• Upon arrival to school, students must remain on school grounds and in the building until
check out through proper procedures in the main office or dismissal.
• Doors Open………...7:00 am
• Tardy Bell ……….....7:45 am
• School Dismissal…....2:45 pm
Bell Schedule
Begin End
1st Block 7:45 9:10
Class Change 9:10 9:20
Break/PV 9:20 9:35
2nd Block 9:35 11:00
Class Change 11:00 11:10
3rd Block 11:10 1:10
Class Change 1:10 1:15
4th Block 1:15 2:40
4DeSoto County Schools
2020-2021 Calendar
August 3, 2020 Teachers' First Day
August 17, 2020 Students' First Day
September 7, 2020 Labor Day Holiday
September 16, 2020 Progress Reports (LHS Date)
October 9, 2020 End of First Nine Weeks
October 12, 2020 Fall Break
October 15, 2020 Report Cards
November 3, 2020 Staff Development Day
November 18, 2020 Progress Report (LHS Date)
November 23-27, 2020 Thanksgiving Holidays
December 18, 2020 End of Second Nine Weeks
December 21, 2020 - January 1, 2021 Christmas Holidays
January 4, 2021 Staff Development Day
January 5, 2021 Students Return
January 7, 2021 Report Cards
January 18, 2021 Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday
February 6, 2021 Progress Report (LHS Date)
February 12, 2021 Professional Dev. Day (Tentative)
February 15, 2021 President's Day Holiday (Tentative)
March 12, 2021 End of Third Nine Weeks
March 15 - March 19, 2021 Spring Break Holidays
March 25, 2021 Report Cards
April 2, 2021 Good Friday Holiday
April 5, 2021 Easter Break (Tentative)
April 28, 2021 Progress Report (LHS Date)
May 25, 2021 Students' Last Day (Tentative)
May 26, 2021 Teachers' Last Day (Tentative)
TENTATIVE MAKEUP DAYS:
February 12th, February 15th, April 5th, May 26th and May 27th
5Additional Information
App for Lewisburg High
To stay up to date with activities and events at LHS, download the Lewisburg High School App
from the App Store, which is available for iPhone and Android Devices. Simply look for the
picture on page one of this document.
Bus Rules
• Be waiting at your stop 5 minutes early. (This does NOT mean inside your house.)
• If you need to cross the street, wait for traffic to stop; driver will motion to you when it
is safe to pass in front of the bus to load or unload.
• Obey the bus driver.
• No unauthorized items on bus. (No weapons, tobacco, combustibles, pets, large items,
etc.)
• Be nice and courteous.
• Keep the bus clean.
• No profanity and No Fighting.
• Student Safety Is Our #1 Concern. Keep hands and head inside of the bus.
• Do not throw anything, anywhere.
• Stay in your seat.
• Driver may assign seats.
• No eating or drinking.
• Damage to bus interior may result in student paying for the damage.
• Emergency door / windows may only be opened in case of emergency.
• Do not distract or bother the driver through loud talking or misbehavior.
• Report any problems you may have to the driver as soon as possible.
• DCS and drivers are not responsible for articles left on the bus.
• NOTICE: Use or possession of gang graffiti, gang drawings, gang writings, gang dress, or
gang activity of any kind may result in expulsion from school.
• Violations will be reported to your school principal. Punishment may include removing
you from the bus permanently. School principals will determine any punishments.
Students are only allowed to ride the bus home to the address listed given during registration
and listed in PowerSchool.
6Cell Phone Policy
See Level 2 offense in the DCS Code of Discipline
In addition, students are not to have their devices out during class change.
Check In/Out Procedures
• After 7:45 all student must check in through the main office.
• Check outs can only be done in person.
• No check outs are allowed after 2:15 pm.
• Access will be limited into the front office. Once you enter the foyer you will then be
admitted into the front office accordingly. Be prepared to wait for entry into the main
office.
• A valid ID must be presented to check out any student.
• Only people who are listed in Powerschool as being authorized to pick up a student will
be allowed to checkout said student.
• Checkout notes will be allowed for appointments (ie., doctor, court) only. The student
must turn in their excuse within 48 hours. If an excuse note is not turned in, they will
lose the privilege of checking out by note.
• Students are required to sign in and out in the main office.
Classification of Students (DeSoto County School Board Policy IEDB)
The classification of students is based on the following requirements.
• Freshman – Grade 9 – Has earned fewer than 6 Carnegie Units
• Sophomore– Grade 10 – Has earned at least 6 Carnegie Units and has successfully
completed English I and 2 additional Core Carnegie Units.
• Junior – Grade 11 – Has earned at least 13 Carnegie Units and has successfully
completed English II, Algebra I and 3 additional Core Carnegie Unites
• Senior – Grade 12 – Has earned at least 20 Carnegie Units and has successfully
completed 3 English Carnegie Units and on track for graduation
7Code of Discipline
DESOTO COUNTY SCHOOLS CODE OF DISCIPLINE FORWARD
The Uniform Discipline Code has been developed in consultation with students, parents,
teachers, and administrators so they will know and understand that firm, fair and consistent
discipline policies are to be maintained in all DeSoto County public schools. Use of this Code is
intended to ensure a stable learning environment in an atmosphere which encourages
academic excellence. It is expected that staff members, students and parents will work together
to support and enforce the code regulations with equity and consistency for all students.
Introduction
The uniform Discipline Code of the DeSoto County Schools provides a uniform standard of
conduct for all public-school students. It describes inappropriate student behavior, ensures
equal treatment for misconduct, and presets specific actions for remediating prohibited
behaviors. The Code is based on the premise that rules must be enforced fairly, firmly and
consistently and in a fashion equitable and just, while complying with state mandates and
regulations. It recognizes that as students' progress in school and advance in age and maturity,
they will assume greater responsibility for their actions. It is also recognized that differences in
age and maturity require different types of disciplinary action.
In this Code, discipline is defined as the implementation of and adherence to behavioral rules
and regulations which will ensure an educational environment free of mental and physical
hazards to students, teachers and staff. Such an environment is conducive to the practice of
good citizenship and encourages learning. The enforcement of the Code will help ensure a safe
and orderly school climate for students and staff alike.
Specific provisions of the Code include:
1. A parent, guardian or custodian of a compulsory school age child enrolled in the DeSoto
County Schools shall be responsible financially for his or her minor child’s destructive acts
against school property or persons.
2. A parent, guardian or custodian of a compulsory school age child enrolled in the DeSoto
County Schools may be requested to appear at school by the school attendance officer or the
principal, for a conference regarding the destructive acts of their child, or for any other
discipline conference regarding the acts of the child.
3. Any parent, guardian or custodian of a compulsory school age child enrolled in the DeSoto
County Schools who refuses or willfully fails to attend such discipline conference specified in
8paragraph (2) of this section may be summoned by proper notification by the superintendent of
schools or the school attendance officer and be required to attend such discipline conference.
4. A parent, guardian or custodian of a compulsory school age child enrolled in the DeSoto
County Schools shall be responsible for any criminal fines brought against such student for
unlawful activity occurring on school grounds or buses.
5. Any parent, guardian or custodian of a compulsory school age child who a fails to attend a
discipline conference to which such parent, guardian or custodian has been summoned under
the provisions of this section, or refuses or willfully fails to perform any other duties imposed
upon him or her under the law shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction shall be
fined not to exceed an amount provided by law.
6. The DeSoto County Schools shall be entitled to recover damages in an amount not to exceed
an amount as provided by law, plus necessary court costs, from the parents of any minor (7- 17)
who maliciously and willfully damages or destroys property belonging to this school district.
However, this section shall not apply to parents whose parental control of such child has been
removed by court order or decree.
7. As an alternative to suspension, a student may remain in school by having the parent,
guardian or custodian, with the consent of the student’s teacher or teachers, attend class with
the student for a period of time specifically agreed upon by the teacher and school principal. If
the parent, guardian or custodian does not agree to attend class with the student or fails to
attend class with the student, the student shall be suspended in accordance with this Code.
CODE OF DISCIPLINE GRADES K-12
Student Conduct:
Acts of Misconduct
These acts of misconduct include those student behaviors which disrupt the orderly educational
process in the classroom or on the school grounds including the following:
Level I
1 – 1 Tardiness
1 – 2 Running and/or making excessive noise in the hall or building
1 – 3 Inappropriate personal contact including but not limited to pushing and shoving,
inappropriate gestures and public displays of affection, recklessness, or any inappropriate
contact which does not result in physical harm, or any additional contact which the
principal determines to be in this level.
1 – 4 In unauthorized area without pass (halls, etc.)
91 – 5 Dress code violation
* 1 – 6 Displaying any behavior which is disruptive to the orderly process of education
Disciplinary Action
First Violation
Minimum: Teacher-Student Conference
Maximum: Teacher-Student-Parent Conference
Repeated or Flagrant Violation
Minimum: Teacher-Student-Administrator-Parent Conference (Home Suspension)
Maximum: Corporal Punishment, in-school suspension, detention, and/or school suspension
* Students, who after having a student-teacher conference, a teacher-student-parent
conference, home suspension, Teacher Support Team interventions, continue displaying
behavior which is disruptive to the orderly process of education, can be suspended from school,
pending a disciplinary hearing.
Level II
* 2 – 1 Leaving the school grounds without permission
* 2 – 2 Skipping class
* 2 – 3 Insubordination - refusal to follow written or verbal school rules after receiving specific
directions from a person in authority including, but not limited to breaking school or
classroom rules, failure to respond to staff request, refusal to complete assigned task, or
exhibiting disrespect towards adults.
* 2 – 4 Possession and/or use of a tobacco product or substances used as smoking material,
including electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), vapes, vaporizers, or any alternative
nicotine product
* 2 - 5 Exhibiting any hostile physical or verbal actions
* 2 – 6 Bullying (as defined in Board Policy JDDA)
** 2 – 7 Unauthorized use of personal electronic devices (as defined in Board Policy IJBA).
* 2 - 8 Cheating on tests or exams (The grade "0" will be assigned regardless of other
punishment).
10Disciplinary Action
First Violation
Minimum: Administrator-Conference, ALC, mandatory student-parent-administrator
conference, corporal punishment
Maximum: School suspension (one to three days)
Repeated or Flagrant Violation
Minimum: School suspension (three days)
Maximum: School suspension (three days) and/or ALC for up to ten (10) days and/or Teacher
Support Team interventions
* Students who, after having a student-teacher conference, a teacher-student-parent
conference, a mandatory student-parent-administrator conference, and Teacher Support Team
interventions, and a Functional Behavior Assessment, continue displaying behavior which is
disruptive to the orderly process of education, can be suspended from school, pending a
disciplinary hearing.
** Additional disciplinary action for unauthorized possession or use of personal electronic
devices (as defined in Board Policy IJBA):
1st Offense: First offense will result in confiscation of the device and parental contact. The
electronic device will be returned at the end of the school day to the student or his/her
parent/guardian as determined by the building principal.
2nd Offense: School will take and keep device for 5 school days. After the device is retained
for 5 school days, the electronic device will be returned to the student or his/her
parent/guardian as determined by the building principal.
3rd Offense: School will take and keep device for 10 school days. After the device is retained
for10 school days, the electronic device will be returned to the student or his/her
parent/guardian as determined by the building principal.
4th Offense: School will take and keep device for 20 school days. After the device is retained
for 20 school days, the electronic device will be returned to the student or his/her
parent/guardian as determined by the building principal.
Level III
3 – 1 Fighting
113 – 2 Gambling
* 3 – 3 Theft of personal and/or school property
3 – 4 Acts which threaten the safety and well-being of students and/or staff: engaging in any
behavior (by word or act) that encourages, incites, or instigates threatening or aggressive
acts which can create the risk of harm to another person.
3 – 5 Extortion- use of intimidation, coercion or force
* 3 – 6 Vandalism of personal and/or school property
3 – 7 Using profane, obscene, indecent, immoral, or offensive language and/or gestures,
and/or
possession of obscene, indecent, immoral, or offensive materials.
3 – 8 Inappropriate sexual conduct, including unwelcomed sexual contact, indecent exposure,
or transferring sexually suggestive images through personal electronic devices.
Disciplinary Action
First Violation
Minimum: School suspension from one to three days, ALC, corporal punishment
Maximum: School suspension (three days), report to authorities when applicable
Repeated or Flagrant Violation
Minimum: School suspension (three days), ALC (ten days), and/or Levels 3-4 and 3-8 Teacher
Support Team interventions
Maximum: School suspension (three days) and possible assignment to DeSoto County
Alternative Center pending the results of a disciplinary hearing.
* For theft or vandalism restitution shall be made regardless of other punishment
Level IV
4 – 1 Possession, use or under the influence of alcohol, synthetic drugs, counterfeit drugs,
illegal drugs, narcotics, controlled substance(s) or paraphernalia.
4 – 2 Assault on a student. Assault is defined as purposely or recklessly causing or attempting
to cause bodily injury (including pain or discomfort) to another.
4 – 3 Assault on a school employee. Assault is defined as purposely or recklessly causing
or attempting to cause bodily injury (including pain or discomfort) to another.
4 – 4 Using profane, obscene, indecent, immoral, threatening, or offensive language and/or
gestures directly to a staff member
Any student in violation of the above shall be suspended by the principal for three days and
ordered to appear for a disciplinary hearing before a District Hearing Officer.
12Disciplinary Action
Minimum: Assignment to the DeSoto County Alternative Center and a report will be made to
the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
Maximum: Expulsion
Students below grade 6 may be given other punishment.
Level V
5 – 1 Weapon(s) possession or use of a weapon including any toy or look alike weapon
Any toy or look alike weapon that looks enough like an authentic weapon to be
reasonably mistaken for authentic will be considered.
Disciplinary Action
Minimum: Possession other than gun will result in assignment to the DeSoto County Alternative
Center and a report will be made to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
Maximum: Possession of a fire arm/gun or use of other weapon will result in expulsion from
school for a period of not less than one year (under certain circumstances expulsion can be
from the student's assigned school to the DeSoto County Alternative Center).
For students below grade 6, the hearing officer may recommend other punishment if the
behavior does not require expulsion and the student is likely to benefit from remediation.
5 – 2 Sale or distribution, or conspiring to sell counterfeit drugs, synthetic drugs, illegal
drugs/alcohol, narcotics or controlled substance(s)
Disciplinary Action
Minimum: Assignment to the DeSoto County Alternative Center and a report will be made to
the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
Maximum: Expulsion
For students below grade 6, the hearing officer may recommend other punishment if the
behavior does not require expulsion and the student is likely to benefit from remediation.
5 – 3 Students are prohibited from wearing, displaying, or possessing in any manner on school
property or at school-sponsored events clothing, apparel, accessories, drawings, or
13messages associated with any gang or social club that is associated with criminal activity,
as defined by law enforcement agencies.
Disciplinary Action
Minimum: Mandatory student/parent/resource officer/administrator meeting to investigate
situation and determine proper discipline consequence.
Repeated: Assignment to the DeSoto County Alternative Center
Maximum: Expulsion for repeated violations and/or gang activity that includes but is not
limited to:
• Acts which disrupt the process of orderly education
• Recruitment with use of intimidation
• Tagging or marking
• Assault
• Battery
5-4 Threats of violence or harm: Any spoken, written, gestured or electronically
communicated threat that disrupts the educational environment of the school and/or
suggests a student intends to cause bodily harm or carry out an act of violence against
district property, students, employees, or others (e.g. bomb threats, school shooting
threats,
etc...).
Disciplinary Action
Students found to have made threats of violence or harm against district property, students,
employees or others will be subject to expulsion from school for a period of not less than one
year (under certain circumstances expulsion can be from the student's assigned school to the
DeSoto County Alternative Center).
In addition to these penalties, provisions of the Mississippi Criminal Code are applicable to
illegal behavior. Principals are required to report illegal activities to the police. Students
committing any crime or involved with any criminal behavior are subject to arrest by local law
enforcement.
The DeSoto County Board of Education permits individual schools to adopt additional
regulations governing actions not covered by Conduct Code. However, such additional
regulations may neither substitute for nor negate any of the provisions, in spirit or intent of the
Conduct Code, and must be approved in writing by the School Superintendent.
14Due Process
In cases where the imposition of punishment is for a suspension of three (3) days or less, the
student will be orally informed of the charges lodged against him. the student shall have a right
to respond and refute these charges. There may be a delay between the time that "notice" is
given and the time of the parent/student right to respond. A parent will be notified of the
suspension by telephone, if possible, and in writing. The student's parent/guardian has a right
to discuss this matter further and have the charge and punishment explained by the
administration along with all other rights provided by board policy.
Disciplinary Hearing
When a student appears before a disciplinary hearing, the student will be subject to additional
punishment up to and including suspension of more than three (3) days, assignment to an
alternative educational setting for more than ten (10) days, or an expulsion from school.
For additional information on due process and disciplinary hearings, please refer to Board
Policy JDAAAA - Disciplinary Procedures.
Alternative Placement Procedures
After a student is referred for consideration of placement at DeSoto County Alternative Center
(DCAC), the District Review Board and Transition team will determine appropriate placement
for the student. Once a student is accepted into DCAC, the District Review Board and Transition
Team will develop an Individualized Instruction Plan (IIP) for each student. The plan will follow
the program and class schedule of the home school. DCAC follows the frameworks that are
established by the state of Mississippi for the subject matter to be taught in each course.
Certified personnel will send a daily feedback sheet home that requires a parent signature for
all students attending DCAC.
An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) committee meets to determine every change of
placement for our special education students. Students with special education rulings follow
their IEP while at DCAC.
Parents are notified of the recommendation for placement at DCAC during the disciplinary
hearing. The home school will contact the parent once acceptance is granted by the District
Review Board. All parents and students will meet with a DCAC administrator to discuss the
DCAC program and requirements. The student shall complete a minimum of thirty (30)
successful days prior to returning to his/her home school.
15The District Review Board consists of school-level administrators, district-level administrators,
and counselors as determined by the Director of Pupil Services.
Conferences
Administrators and teachers will be happy to speak with you at any time about your student’s
progress. However, conferences will need to be scheduled in advance and will be conducted
virtually until further notice due to COVID-19. Please email the teacher to schedule a
conference or call the main office to schedule at time to meet with administration. Please be
advised that we will be unable to accommodate drop-in conferences.
Dress Code
Proper attire and grooming are deemed important to scholastic achievement and orderliness.
The responsibility for the appearance of the students begins with the parents and the students
themselves. Students’ clothing, make-up, and hairstyles should reflect neatness, cleanliness,
and self-respect so that the school is a desirable place in which to promote learning and
character development. It is virtually impossible to formulate a set of regulations that
adequately covers every detail of proper grooming. Violations of the Dress Code will be dealt
with in accordance with the Desoto County Schools Code of Discipline. It will be treated as
insubordination and will be handled as stated in the Code of Discipline of the Desoto County
Schools. Insubordination is a Level II violation.
First Violation: Administrator-Parent conference, home suspension, ALC, or in-school
suspension.
Second Violation: School suspension (three days)
Repeated Times: Suspension from school pending a disciplinary hearing
1. Hair must be neat, clean and worn in a manner that does not interfere with vision or cause a
disruption in the classroom. No combs, picks, rollers or extreme coloring will be allowed.
2. T-shirts with sleeves, white or colored, are acceptable. Shirts must be properly closed, zipped
or buttoned.
163. No article of clothing that pertains to or depicts the following will be acceptable:
a. Substances or activities illegal by law for minors, such as, alcohol, drugs, tobacco,
gambling
b. Profane, suggestive or violent language
c. Derogatory symbols; remarks directed to any ethnic group
4. Sufficient underclothes must be worn appropriately and must not be exposed.
5. Tank tops, tube tops, muscle shirts, spaghetti straps, thin straps, or tops that expose the
midriff, any part of the bust, excessive part of the back, are excessively tight or are distracting
in class are not permitted. No slits in shirts are to be above the waistline of pants or skirts.
Shirts are to be tucked in. Blouses/tops made to be worn outside should be at least three (3)
inches below the waistline and no longer than five (5) inches below the waistline.
6. Students in grades 6 thru 12 may wear walking shorts or Bermuda shorts that are knee
length.
They should not be excessively tight or baggy. Athletic shorts are not permitted unless they
are a part of an approved gym class or athletic class/activity.
7. Knee length dresses and skirts are allowed. No slits in these skirts or dresses above the
kneecaps are allowed.
8. No spandex articles of clothing are allowed.
9. Shoes must be worn at all times, and no house shoes are allowed. Shoes with laces should be
laced and tied.
10. No visible tattoos will be allowed. Neither male nor female students will be permitted to
wear rings and/or studs in their noses, tongues, or any exposed body parts other than the
ear
and appropriate rings on fingers.
11. Coaches, physical education classes or any organized athletics have the option to ban all
jewelry due to safety reasons and/or violation of the Mississippi High School Activity
Association regulations.
12. Sunglasses, other than prescription, must be removed when inside the building.
13. All pants must be worn fitted to the waist, at the waist, with or without a belt. Belts must
be
worn and buckled appropriately for pants that have belt loops. Pants should fit
appropriately.
No baggy pants are allowed. No writing is to be on the seat of the pants, even the
cheerleader’s uniform and dance team.
1714. Leggings are allowed when worn with a top that meets the dress length guidelines specified
in #7. (Per item #7, the top should hit the knee.)
15. Pants must have no exposed skin above the knee.
16. Hats, caps, sweatbands, or other head coverings are not to be worn in the buildings or on
the
grounds of the school except for medical reasons as prescribed by a physician. Head
coverings as part of a religious belief will be allowed if there is sufficient proof the student is
a practicing member of the religious sect. Head coverings may be worn if authorized by the
faculty and/or administration, if it is part of a uniform (i.e., wearing a full baseball uniform
during games or practice) or as deemed necessary. (Face coverings (Masks and face shields)
permitted during COVID-19.
17. Specific outfits designated for extracurricular activities and decisions concerning any
questionable clothing will be left to the discretion of the principal.
18. Local principals or their designee have the power and discretion to make all decisions on
their campus
Added specifically by and for Lewisburg High School:
19. Blankets are not permitted. If a student is cold they may wear a sweater, sweatshirt, or
jacket.
18Deliveries to School
• Delivery of any type is not permitted during this time due to COVID 19, which includes
assignments, backpacks, instruments and any additional forgotten items.
• Students need to ensure that they bring everything they need for a successful school
day with them in the morning.
Early Graduation
A student who wishes to graduate one semester early may request permission to complete
graduation requirements during the first semester of the student's senior year.
Parents/guardians are encouraged to meet with school counselors to develop a graduation
plan. The students’ intention to accomplish this shall be stated, in writing, to the principal prior
to the beginning of their senior year. Eligible students can still participate in prom, graduation
and other senior festivities that usually take place during the second semester. Once early
graduation is approved, students will not be allowed to take courses 2nd semester with the
exception of courses repeated that are required for graduation in the event of a course failure
in the Fall semester.
The absence requirement in the DeSoto County Schools exemption policy has been removed
for the 2020-2021 school year. Students are encouraged to stay at home if they are showing
COVID-19 symptoms.
Exemption Policy
For the 2020-2021 school year in order for a student to be exempt from a final exam, he/she
must
• have an eighty-five (85) or above average.
• have not been assigned to an Alternative Learning Class (ALC) for more than five (5)
days, have not been suspended and/or placed in DeSoto County Alternative Center
(DCAC) or the Juvenile Detention Center (JDC) at any time during the semester. (August -
December or January - May)
19Graduation Requirements
Grades 9-11
Traditional Diploma
• Earn 24 credits (Carnegie Units) in a selection of required classes including English,
Math, Science, Social Studies, Technology or Computer Science, College and Career
Readiness, Health, Art, Physical Education and electives
• Local school districts may add graduation requirements to the state requirements
Traditional Diploma + Career and Technical Education (CTE) Endorsement
• Earn 26 credits
• Earn four credits from the same CTE program
• Achieve at least a 2.5 grade point average
• Score at silver level on ACT WorkKeys
• Successfully complete a dual credit course, a work-based learning experience or earn a
national credential
Traditional Diploma + Academic Endorsement
• Earn 26 credits
• Score at least 17 on ACT English section
• Score at least 19 on ACT Math section
• Achieve at least a 2.5 grade point average
• Successfully complete one Advanced Placement course and AP exam, one International
Baccalaureate course and exam, or one dual credit course
• Earn at least a C in the advanced course
Traditional Diploma + Distinguished Academic Endorsement
• Earn 28 credits
• Score at least 18 on ACT English section
• Score at least 22 on ACT Math section
• Achieve at least a 3.0 grade point average
• Successfully complete one Advanced Placement course and AP exam, one International
Baccalaureate course and exam, or one dual credit course
• Earn at least a B in the advanced course
Alternate Diploma
Mississippi public schools offer an alternate course of study for students with Significant
Cognitive Disabilities. This course of study leads to the Alternate Diploma, which recognizes
that a student has completed high school. The Alternate Diploma is not equivalent to a
Traditional Diploma and is not recognized by postsecondary entities that require a standard
high school diploma.
20Current Seniors (Class of 2021)
CURRICULUM AREA CARNEGIE UNITS REQUIRED SUBJECTS
ENGLISH 41 English I English II
MATHEMATICS
42 Algebra I
43 Biology I
SCIENCE
1 World History4
1 U.S. History4
SOCIAL STUDIES 4 1⁄2 Geography4
1⁄2 U.S. Government 1⁄2 Economics5
1⁄2 Mississippi Studies4
HEALTH and PHYSICAL EDUCATION 17&8 1⁄2 Contemporary Health and 1⁄2
Physical Education9&11
TECHNOLOGY or Computer
110
Science
THE ARTS 111
ELECTIVES 512
TOTAL UNITS REQUIRED
24
21High School Grading Scales
English, Foreign Language Math
Tests. 40% Tests. 40%
Daily Grades 15% Daily Grades 25%
Quizzes/Homework. 25% Quizzes/Homework. 15%
Exam 20% Exams 20%
Science Histories
Tests/Projects. 40% Tests/Projects 40%
Daily Grades/Hwk 15% Daily Grades &
Quizzes/Labs. 25% Quizzes/Homework. 40%
Exam 20% Exam 20%
Electives
Tests/Projects/
Quizzes/Labs. 50%
Daily Grades/Hwk. 30%
Exam 20%
*AP Courses will be weighted based on College Board approved syllabus per course.
22Late Arrival Students
• Students who are to arrive to campus 2nd Block can enter through the B hall doors
between 9:10 and 9:20. Outside of this time, the front entrance must be used.
• Those arriving for 2nd block are late at 9:20.
Lunch Information
• Student lunches cost $2.75
• Students will be given lunch cards this year. Students should take a picture of their lunch
card in the event that they lose it. Students can use the picture on their cell phone to
scan as they go through the lunch line.
• Parents can prepay for lunches to eliminate sending money to school by going to
www.mypaymentsplus.com and setting up an account. This service also allows parents
to monitor balances and purchases, receive email and text notifications when the
balance is low. There is also an app for your phone but, there is a fee for this service.
• Free and reduced meal applications are accepted online year round at
www.schoollunchapp.com. The online option is the fastest way to receive eligibility and
is highly encouraged. New applications must be completed each school year. Meal
benefits do not become effective until the application has been approved. Paper
applications are available at the school upon request.
• LHS does NOT allow the drop off/delivery of fast food/beverages or ANY non-
homemade meals to students.
• Due to COVID, no visitors are allowed during lunch.
Lunch Procedures (COVID)
• All students who are eating in the cafeteria will be dismissed to lunch by their teacher.
• Students will be expected to observe social distancing guidelines as they walk to and
from the cafeteria and wait in the serving line.
• Students are required to skip one seat between each person and only sit on blue seats.
23Make Up Policy
When a student is absent from school (excused or unexcused), the number of days allowed to
complete any required make-up work is commensurate with the number of days missed to a
maximum of five (5) days.
For example, if a student is absent from school for one (1) day, the student has one (1) day to
complete the required make-up assignments. If the student is absent for five (5) days, he/she
will have five (5) days to complete his/her make-up work. If the student is absent for twelve (12)
days, the student has five (5) days to complete the missed work. The principal has the discretion
to allow additional time or limit the number of required assignments in extreme situations.
Medicine
Students are not allowed to have ANY medicine with them on campus.
If your child requires prescription medications during the school day it must be in the original
bottle with the current prescription label attached. Any over the counter medication (Tylenol,
Ibuprofen) will also require written permission from parent along with signature and stamp
from your doctor. All medications must be brought to school by a parent or guardian. Any
medicine brought to school by students will not be administered.
Parent Portal Access
Parents or Guardians can access their students’ grades via the internet or smartphone by
obtaining a username and password. This information can only be given to the legal
parent/guardian. In order to do this, the following procedures must be utilized:
• Access the Parent Portal Parental Use and Responsibility Acknowledgement Form via
the LHS website and email it to Kathy.May@dcsms.org along with a copy of the front of
the parent/guardian's driver's license
• The username and password will be emailed to the parent/guardian after the request is
processed.
Public Displays of Affection (PDA)
LHS strives to maintain an educational atmosphere conducive for learning and marked by
responsible and appropriate behavior. A student’s failure to comply with a staff member or
administrator’s direction or request may result in disciplinary action.
24Reporting Concerns regarding school safety
Students and parents are encouraged to report all dangerous and potentially dangerous
situations and/or events directly to an administrator. Tips can be reported anonymously
through the school web site, the school app or by calling the front office.
Restroom Policy
Restroom capacity will be monitored for social distancing purposes before school and during
class changes. During class, students will be allowed to use the restroom for emergencies only.
Teachers will notify administration if they suspect that students are abusing restroom
privileges. Students are required to go to the restroom on the same hall as the classroom they
are currently enrolled and are expected to practice social distancing while in the hallway and
restroom.
REVOPAY: How To
1. Go to revopay.com
2. Click "Make a Payment"
3. Enter Lewisburg High - and then click the blue bar under the school name
4. Click - make a quick payment
5. Enter Account number - this is your student's MSIS number.
6. Verify info
7. Scroll Down and select "EX: AP USH Test Fees or ex: Band Member Bundle"
8. Select Payment
9. Enter CC information
10. Write down or screen shot your Confirmation Number for your records.
Sale of Personal Property
Students are not allowed to sell clothing, candy, personal property or other goods for non-
distict fundraising purposes while at school. Students who violate this rule will be subject to
disciplinary action.
25Schoology (Skoo’-luh-jee) - Learning Management System for Online Learning
• Students can access courses, assignments, and content all in one place.
• With your student account in Schoology you can:
✓ Access your Courses
✓ View your Grades
✓ Complete Assessments
✓ Collaborate within Groups
✓ Submit Assignments
✓ Receive Updates
✓ Communicate with Teachers
✓ Manage Calendars
• How to log in:
✓ In your browser, navigate to our domain, https://desotoms.schoology.com/home
✓ Enter your Office 365 credentials.
Username:
Students' usernames are constructed using the following formula: First initial of first
name, + first initial of last name, + last 6 digits of their lunch number.
■ Example: If Amy King's lunch number is 1234567, her DCS User account / email
address is ak234567@dcsms.org
Password:
■K-12 Students: The password is the same as your computer password and is your
school mascot + your date of birth (mmddyy). ● Example: You attend Lewisburg
High, and your birthdate is July 8, 2014, your password is Patriots070814
• If you have any questions, please visit http://www.dcsdms.org/tickets/ to submit a help
ticket. Sincerely, DeSoto County Schools
Snacks
Due to COVID 19 and social distancing guidelines, the vending and drink machines have been
removed from LHS. However, a snack cart will come to students' classrooms during first or
second block a few weeks after school begins. Snacks and drinks will be $1 each.
26Student Driver Information
• Driving to school is a privilege for students who have a valid drivers’ license and have
purchased a parking pass.
• All vehicles parked on school campus must be registered and have a parking permit.
• Student parking is in the back-parking lot adjacent to the football field.
• Students are NOT allowed to park in the front of the school.
• While the school will make efforts to maintain the safety of vehicles parked on campus,
students are fully responsible for their vehicles and the school/district is not responsible
for damage to or theft of student vehicles.
• The individual driver is responsible for
o All items located inside the vehicle, which includes but is not limited to alcohol,
synthetic drugs, counterfeit drugs, illegal drugs, narcotics, controlled
substance(s) or paraphernalia, weapon(s)-including any toy or look alike weapon
that could be reasonably mistaken for authentic will be considered. Tobacco
products or substances used as smoking material, including electronic cigarettes
(e-cigarettes), vapes, vaporizers, or any alternative nicotine product. In addition,
clothing, apparel, accessories, drawings, or messages associated with any gang
or social club that is associated with criminal activity, as defined by law
enforcement agencies is prohibited.
o Accurately registering his/her vehicle with the school
o Notifying the front office of changes in vehicle information
o Knowing and observing the schools’ parking policies
o Driving safely and with regard to the safety of others
o Entering, parking and leaving the parking lot promptly
o Having a valid pass, signed by an administrator, to go to his/her vehicle during
the school day
• LHS Administration reserves the right to deny the privilege of on campus parking and
driving.
27Tardy Policy
Tardies are cumulative across classes and are tallied by semester. Students, who are not in the
room when teachers close their door are tardy. When the bell finishes ringing, teachers should
close their door and direct students to get a tardy in the front office.
Tardies to School:
Tardy 1-3..........……Warning
Tardy 4…………… Student Conference
Tardy 6… …………Mandatory Parent Conference
Tardy 7 ……....……Warning
Tardy 8 …............…1 day of ALC
Tardy 9+…...............1 day of ALC for each tardy (Student drivers may lose parking privileges if they
exceed 9 tardies to school in a semester.)
Tardies between classes:
Tardy 1-3…….......... Warning
Tardy 4…………… Student Conference
Tardy 6… ………… 1 day of ALC
Tardy 7 ……………Warning
Tardy 8..............… Mandatory Parent-Student-Administrator Conference & 1 day of ALC
Taryd 9+…................1 day of ALC for each tardy
Tobacco Free Policy
Students, staff members and visitors are prohibited from possessing or using tobacco, tobacco
products and smoking-related products (including but not limited to any electronic smoking
tobacco such as e-cigarettes, vapes, vaporizers, vape pens, hookah pens, JUUL products and e-
pipes) in accordance with board policy. This includes, but is not limited to, all district buildings,
school grounds, school buses and school activities.
28Traffic Flow Map
29VIP (Virtual Instructional Program) Student Expectation and Requirements
*All DeSoto County school board policies apply to students in the Virtual Instructional Program
(VIP). The purpose of this document is not to nullify or replace any school board approved
policy. The purpose of this document is to clarify expectations and requirements for students
and guardians while students are in the VIP.
• Students/guardians understand a reliable internet connection and a device with a larger
screen are requirements to complete and submit assignments in the VIP. District
officials will work with families who have indicated that they do not have a device
available to access Schoology. There is a non-refundable $25 fee to rent a district device
unless the student qualifies for free or reduced lunch in which case the fee can be
waived if requested by the guardian. The acceptable device policy discusses fees, stolen
or damaged equipment. The policy is located
here…https://desoto.msbapolicy.org/DistrictPolicies/ViewsAdmin/SelectedDocumentRe
adOnly /tabid/8412/Default.aspx?docId=275170. Violations could result in removal from
the program and possible prosecution in accordance with law. It is the family’s
responsibility to be sure they have reliable internet in order to be part of this program.
• Students/guardians are not allowed to record, publish, photograph, stream, post to a
third party site, sell, duplicate or share anything posted on or within the Schoology
platform, either by Schoology or DeSoto County Schools. Violations could result in
removal from the program and possible prosecution in accordance with law.
• Students/guardians will follow the Schoology terms of use located
here…https://www.schoology.com/terms-of-use. Violations could result in removal
from the program and possible prosecution in accordance with law.
• Students/guardians understand students enrolled in the VIP will be required to
participate in assessments, consisting of class assignments, district assessments, and/or
state assessments. Some of the state assessments could be required for promotion
and/or graduation by state law/policy, such as is the case for all 3 rd grade students and
high school students enrolled in Algebra I, English II, Biology I or U.S. History. In addition,
all students in kindergarten and grades 4-8 are required to take a state assessment by
federal and/or state law, along with all English Learner students in all grades. These
state assessments will require the student to take the assessment at the school building.
School officials will work with the guardian regarding testing plans at the appropriate
time.
• Students/guardians understand some programs, such as English Learners, Special
Education and 504, are services written for a traditional setting. Some services and
accommodations may not be appropriate or feasible in the VIP.
• Students/guardians understand DeSoto County Schools staff will not be available for
direct communication or instruction outside of school hours on school days.
• Students/guardians understand the Mississippi Department of Education requires 240
minutes of daily instruction for all students, including those in a distance-learning
program. This could include recorded or live teaching from the classroom teacher,
30instructional videos, tasks, assignments, and/or activities. The mode of instruction will
vary by school, grade level and/or course.
• Students/guardians understand students in the VIP follow the same grading policy as
students in the traditional setting.
• Students/guardians understand attendance is marked daily with completed assignments
and weekly interaction with the teacher. Compulsory school attendance applies to the
students in VIP, just as it does with traditional students.
• Students/guardians understand that the same attendance guidelines apply to both VIP
students and students in a traditional setting at the beginning of the school year. If a
student in the traditional setting does not report to school in the first 3 days of the
school year, he/she is automatically withdrawn from school. The same applies to VIP
students. If a VIP student does not engage in online learning within the first 3 days of
school, he/she will be removed from the program and withdrawn from school.
• Students/guardians understand it is the enrolled student who will complete his/her
assigned work, just as students in the traditional setting. Students/guardians must
follow the guidelines presented by the teacher for each assignment. Violations could
result in removal from the program.
• Student/guardians understand they will use Schoology to post all completed
assignments in order to be graded.
• Students/guardians understand each student enrolled in the VIP program is responsible
for having and using the same materials as traditional students. School supply lists can
be found on each school’s website.
• Students/guardians understand students enrolled in the VIP are unable to participate in
extracurricular activities and/or Career Tech.
• Students/guardians understand enrollment in the VIP program will automatically be
renewed each nine weeks. Guardians can request to remove the student from the
program by emailing distancelearning@dcsms.org. Removal from the program can occur
at the end of a nine-week grading period simply by request. If there is a new emergency
family situation before the end of the nine weeks, a request for removal from the
program can be made by completing the Early Request for VIP Status Change form. This
form will not be available until August 19th. A Review Board will evaluate all forms
completed before the end of a nine-week grading period due to a new emergency
family situation after August 19th. The Review Board will evaluate these requests
periodically.
*By accepting enrollment into the Virtual Instructional Program, you are agreeing to all of the
above statements. If you do not agree to any or all of the above statements, please email
distancelearning@dcsms.org to remove your student from the program. This must occur by July
31st at 12 P.M. After this deadline, DeSoto County Schools will complete enrollment for your
student in the Virtual Instructional Program for the first nine weeks grading period.
31COVID Specific Policies
***Covid-19 guidance changes frequently depending on federal, state, and local guidance from
sources such as the CDC, the Mississippi Department of Health, and other leadership. Policies
and procedures are subject to change at any time. ***
Board Policy
“During a pandemic/epidemic outbreak students, employees and visitors will be required to
adhere to all applicable local, state and federal orders and guidance. Students who refuse to
adhere to the orders and guidance under this policy while attending school or a school function
in any school building, facility or other area of a school campus, and when riding in school-
provided transportation will be disciplined in accordance with school board policy JD.”
COVID Symptoms and Exposure
In order to protect staff members and other students, parents should keep their child at home
if he/she has a pending COVID test or if he/she is showing COVID symptoms. If the student
attends school, he/she could increase the risk of COVID-19 transmission and cause several
students to be quarantined for 14 days by the Mississippi State Department of Health. If the
student has a negative test, the student can return to school.
Masks
Students are required as of 8/4/2020 by Executive Order 1517 to wear a mask or face covering
throughout the entirety of the school day. Students must not wear a mask that contains any
logo, text, or image that represents gang affiliation, gang signs, specific gang patterns, drugs,
drug paraphernalia, obscene or offensive language or gestures, or anything that could cause a
disruption to the school day. Administrators have the discretion to provide an alternative mask
in the event they deem a mask inappropriate to wear at school.
Student Devices
This year, all students will have access to technology in the classroom like never before. We
encourage students to bring their own devices, laptops, iPads, or cell phones in order to engage
in Schoology content and instruction. With that said, students will be expected to use devices
for instructional purposes only, use devices responsibly, and only when teachers allow them.
Students that abuse their teacher's technology procedures and expectations will be disciplined.
32Daily Symptoms Check
Students will be asked the following questions daily in their 1st block class.
Covid-19 Morning Symptom Check
• Have you been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the past 14 days?
• Are you experiencing a sore throat, shortness of breath, or a new uncontrolled cough
that causes difficulty breathing?
• Have you had a fever in the last 48 hours?
• Have you had new loss of taste or smell?
• Have you had vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained abdominal pain in the last 24 hours?
• New onset headache, especially with fever
Social Distancing
Social distancing means keeping a safe space between yourself and other people who are not
from your household. To practice social or physical distancing, stay at least 6 feet (about 2
arms' length) from other people who are not from your household in both indoor and outdoor
spaces.
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