Website: www.usd240.org - 2021-2022 STUDENT HANDBOOK - Twin Valley USD 240
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BENNINGTON
JR/SR HIGH SCHOOL
STUDENT HANDBOOK
for
2021-2022
301 N Putnam Street
P.O. Box 8
Bennington, KS 67422
School Office: 785-488-3321 ext. 221
School Fax: 785-488-2939
Website: www.usd240.org
2021 - 2022
DAILY BLOCK SCHEDULE
Monday Advisory
A/B
Block 1 8:15-9:10
Block 2 9:15-10:10
Block 3 10:15-11:10
Block 4 11:15-12:10/12:20
Lunch 12:00/12:05/12:10-1:10
Advisory/SDL 1:10-3:25
JH Sports 2:55
Tuesday - Friday
A/B
Block 1 8:15-9:45
Block 2 9:50-11:20
Block 3 11:25-1:55
Lunch 12:00/12:05/12:10-1:10
HS Block 4 2:00-3:25
2:00-2:50 Current Events/Band
JH Block 4
2:55-3:25 PE/Sports
2
TWIN VALLEY USD 240 MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of USD 240 is to challenge and prepare all students to become
responsible members of society dedicated to lifelong learning in an ever-
changing world through a network of interactions among staff, students, parents,
and the community.
HIGH SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT
Bennington Graduates will possess expert learning capacities and real-world
employability skills developed through intentional exposure to training and
interventions, allowing them to become competent and competitive members of
society and the workplace in a post-secondary world.
WELCOME
Dear Students and Parents:
Welcome to the 2021-2022 school year. The purpose of this student handbook is
to acquaint you with the policies and procedures of our school and USD 240. It
is intended to be a “guide” and is not intended to be all-inclusive in covering
every possible situation. Please take the time to familiarize yourself with the
information inside and if you have any questions throughout the year, please feel
free to meet with your advisor, counselor, teacher, or me.
Clay Mettlen
Principal
STATEMENT OF NOTIFICATION
Parents may request information regarding the professional qualifications of their
students’ classroom teacher, state assessment scores, and access to the
building report card. Parents will be notified in writing if a teacher that does not
meet the definition of “highly qualified” instructs students for four continuous
weeks.
STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION
The Twin Valley School District, USD 240, does not discriminate against any
applicant, employee, or student in the admission or access to educational
programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, creed,
national origin, marital status, veteran status, gender, age, or the presence of a
non-job-related medical condition or disability.
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DAILY BLOCK SCHEDULE 2
BOARD OF EDUCATION 6
BENNINGTON HIGH SCHOOL STAFF 7
ENROLLMENT 9
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS 11
ENROLLMENT FEES 14
COUNSELING SERVICES 14
SCHOLARSHIPS: 14
TESTING: 15
GRADING POLICY 16
INCOMPLETES: 16
ATTENDANCE 18
STUDENT CONDUCT 19
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY: 19
CLASSROOM CONDUCT: 19
BULLYING/HARASSMENT 20
COMPUTER USE GUIDELINES FOR STUDENTS 20
DISCIPLINE 21
SEARCH OF STUDENTS AND PROPERTY: 22
DRESS CODE AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE: 23
ELECTRONIC DEVICES: 23
TRAFFIC REGULATIONS: 23
BUS REGULATIONS: 24
STUDENT LIFE 24
ACADEMIC LETTERS: 24
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: 24
ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION: 25
ELIGIBILITY POLICY FOR ACTIVITIES/ATHLETICS: 25
LETTERING AT BENNINGTON HIGH SCHOOL: 26
SCHOOL LUNCH/BREAKFAST: 26
BUILDING HOURS: 26
NOTICE TO VISITORS: 26
LOCKERS: 27
DANCE PARTICIPATION: 27
BOOK BAGS: 27
4HEALTH SERVICES 28
Substance Abuse Policy 31
Bennington Discipline Matrix 32
5PERSONNEL
DISTRICT OFFICE PERSONNEL
USD 240 District Office
107 N Nelson Street / PO Box 38
Bennington, KS 785-488-3325
Pam Irwin
Superintendent of Schools
Cindy Regnier
Clerk of the Board
Lisa Everhart
Program Coordinator
Tami Jarrell
Administrative Assistant
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Juanita Morris
Board President
Rosemary Neaderhiser
Vice President
Jeremiah Van Doren
Board Member
Robert Miller
Board Member
Warren McDougal
Board Member
Lorraine Pecenka
Board Member
Ray Swearingen
Board Member
6BENNINGTON HIGH SCHOOL STAFF
OFFICE STAFF
Clay Mettlen…………………. JH/HS Principal
Jason Feil……………………. JH/HS Athletic Director
Deann Paulino.……………….JH/HS Administrative Assistant
Becky Racette….……………..School Nurse
GUIDANCE STAFF
Rena Mick……………………. JH/HS Counselor
Crystal VanCoevern………… Social Worker
Kristi Herr….…………………. School Psychologist
Heather Rook………………... At-Risk Coordinator
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES
Shawn Pecenka……………... Technology Director
LA Wesley……....………….. Software/PowerSchool
CERTIFIED TEACHING STAFF
Anissa Bigler………………… HS English, College Comp/Lit/Speech, Class
Sponsor (12)
Rebecca Downing..…………. JH/HS Math, JH Play, Cheer
Jason Feil……………………. JH/HS Math, Engraving, HS STUCO Sponsor
Jim Gish……………………… JH Social Science, HS World Geography, JH
STUCO, Head JH Football, Head JH Track, JH
Scholar’s Bowl
Rachel Larson…...……………JH/HS Spanish
Susan Lawless………………. Special Education
Bill Luthi………………………. JH/HS Industrial Technology
Darryl Mannebach…………... HS Math, Asst. Scholars Bowl
Megan Myer....………………..HS English
Storm Myer..…………………. HS Social Science, Asst. JH Football, Asst. JH
Boys’ Basketball, Class Sponsor (9)
Rena Mick……………………. JH/HS Counselor, Head JH/HS XC, Head HS
Track
Linda Rickman….……..…….. JH/HS Art
Heather Rook………………... JH/HS At-Risk Coordinator, JH Learning Skills
Bailey Schell…………………. JH/HS Band, Pep Band, Summer Band, Asst.
Head HS Drama
Bryan Shamburg…………….. HS Science, HS Science Olympiad, Head HS
Football, Asst. HS Track, Class Sponsor (10)
Nancy Schmitt……………….. Gifted Facilitator
Patricia Smith…...…………… JH/HS Vocal Music, HS Drama
Ashli Thole……..…….……… JH/HS English, Forensics
TJ Trout………………………. JH/HS Science, JH Science Olympiad, Asst. HS XC,
Asst. JH Track
Kevin Turowski……………… JH/HS Physical Ed/Health, Head JH Boys’
Basketball, Asst. JH Track
Sherry Wiesen………………..HS Business, Yearbook, NHS, Head HS Scholar’s
Bowl, CTE Coordinator
Anna Williamson…………….. JH/HS Vocational Education, FFA
Eric Winters…..……………… Special Education
Monica Wolf…………………..JH/HS English
7ADDITIONAL COACHES/SPONSORS
Jerid Arnold………………….. Asst. HS Baseball
Jennifer Bartlett……………… Head JH Volleyball, Asst. HS Track
Katie Berkley………………… Asst. JH Volleyball
Todd Burrow…………………. Head HS Baseball
Nick Johnson………………… Asst. HS Wrestling
Marva Jore…………………… Class Sponsor (11)
Chris Lawson…………………Asst. HS Boys’ Basketball
Kylie Macy…………………….Co-Head HS Volleyball
Josh Paulino………………… Asst. HS Softball
Andrea Pickering……………..Head JH Girls’ Basketball
Curtis Pickering……………… Head HS Boys’ Basketball
Tracy Piepho………………... Asst. HS Football, Head HS Girls’ Basketball, Asst.
HS Softball
Darren Rodine………………..Asst. JH Girls’ Basketball
Jacob Ryan………………….. Asst. HS Football
April Saskowski……………… Dance, Asst. HS Girls’ Basketball, Head HS
Softball
Cody Smith…………………... Co-Head HS Volleyball
Kaitlyn Stahl…………………..JH Cheer
Dawn Wolf…………………….NHS, Class Sponsor (11)
Dawn Wolf…………………….NHS, Class Sponsor (11)
TBD………..…………………. Asst. HS Boys’ Basketball
TBD………..…………………. Asst. HS Girls’ Basketball
CLASSIFIED STAFF
Dede Case…………………… Cook
Samantha Fyfe….…………... Cook
Tim Boss……………………... Head Custodian
Jetta Boss……………………. Custodian
Judy McCready…………….... Custodian
Darcy Smith…....……………. Custodian
Shane Swagerty....………….. Custodian
Paula Serrien………………… Library Aide, Accompanist
Dawn Wolf…………………… Library Aide
Brittney Timmons………..….. Paraeducator
Celeste Goddard.…………….Paraeducator
Deb Harris……………………. Paraeducator
Marva Jore…………………… Paraeducator
Ronda Williams…………….... Paraeducator/Custodian
BUS DRIVERS
Mandy Gantenbein………….. Transportation Coordinator, Driver
Tim Merkh…………………… Driver
Rodney Saenger…………….. Driver
Brandy Steerman……………. Driver
Dee Wills……………………... Driver
Michele Wolfe…………………Driver
Tammy Saenger…………….. Special Ed Transportation
8ENROLLMENT
RESIDENCY POLICY: with respect to students attending BJH/BHS and the USD 240 schools:
Students who are afforded an education in the facilities of this district are residents of the district.
When they cease to be a school resident of the district, the district shall cease to furnish them
with the educational facilities of this district, except as set forth below:
OUT-OF-DISTRICT STUDENTS: Non-resident students desiring to enroll in the district schools
must complete an “Out-of-District” application for admission. The building principal, the
superintendent,and the Board of Education must approve this application prior to attendance in
the school by the student. The final decision to approve a student rests with the Board, and it is
under no obligation to accept any non-resident student. A parent/principal conference is required
of all applicants, and the principal will investigate the conditions and background of each
applicant and report to the superintendent.
The admission status of all non-resident students who have previously been admitted for
attendance will be reviewed before the beginning of each school year, and a recommendation of
renewal or non-renewal of said student for the coming school year will be given to the
superintendent and the Board for their approval or non-approval for each school year.
GUIDELINES FOR ENROLLMENT AS A FULLTIME STUDENT: Bennington Jr/Sr High School
has a block schedule with four periods per day, from 8:15 AM to 3:25 PM. Students are required
to be enrolled in eight classes per semester. Courses required for graduation must be attempted
first at BHS before being taken off-campus unless the Principal gives prior approval.
TRANSFER STUDENTS FROM NON-ACCREDITED SCHOOLS/CREDIT GRANTED. The
following policy will be followed in determining the amount of credit to be granted for students
transferring to BHS from a non-accredited school:
● No credit will be awarded for courses not offered at BHS unless approved by the
Principal.
● Credit may be granted for transfer courses if a) the course work is in a sequential
curricular area, and b) the next level of the course is taken and passed at
BHS. Example 1: If Spanish 2 is passed at BHS, a credit will be granted for Spanish 1
taken at the high school level at a non-accredited high school. Example 2: If Algebra 2
is passed at BHS, a credit will be granted in Algebra 1 and Geometry taken at high
school level at a non-accredited high school.
● Courses taken at the non-accredited high school that are not sequential in nature will be
considered for granting credit. Interviews will be held with the student and a
representative of the department of the course(s) in question; the student will have the
opportunity by various methods to demonstrate the level of mastery of the course
content; if the Bennington representative is satisfied that the course content and level of
mastery of the course is sufficient, credit will be awarded for the course(s).
● The grade for the transferring course(s) will be recorded as a 'P' for 'pass', and no grade
points will be awarded toward the student’s overall GPA.
TRANSFER CREDITS FROM ACCREDITED SCHOOLS: BHS will accept all transfer credits
from other accredited high schools. Required courses can only be taken for credit at an off-
campus location with prior approval from the Principal.
REDUCED SCHEDULE: A reduced schedule is only available to students with extreme
circumstances, or those enrolled in post-secondary programs. Students desiring a reduced
schedule must discuss the circumstances with the Principal to gain approval.
REPEATING A COURSE: If a student and/or parent choose for the student to repeat a course
that is not normally repeated, and he/she previously passed and received credit for, the grade
and award of credit from the previous year will stay on both the transcript and as a part of the
student’s GPA.
9SCHEDULE CHANGES: The schedule of classes is set up, and teachers are hired and assigned,
based upon student enrollment requests in the spring. Therefore, class changes will not be
possible except as follows:
1. A class must be added to meet graduation requirements.
2. Change is necessary because the student is academically misplaced. (Must be
recommended by teacher/counselor/parent and approved by administration.)
3. Re-taking a class that was failed and is needed to meet graduation requirements.
4. In cases initiated by the student, no more than two days of class have occurred and
all procedures for a schedule change are followed.
The BJH/BHS counselor will advise students regarding schedule changes and choices of
possible classes available.
GUIDELINES FOR DROPPING A CLASS: If a student drops, or is dropped from a class after the
first six weeks of a semester, the course will be recorded on the student’s transcript as “W”
(withdrawn), and the no credit will be calculated in the student’s GPA. If a student’s schedule is
reduced, the student will be put in a supervised study class and required to be in attendance the
entire school day.
SUMMER SCHOOL/EXTENDED LEARNING OPPORTUNITY (ELO):
Summer school or ELO credit does not count toward KSHSAA eligibility.
If a student completes a summer school class at a location other than BHS, i.e. USD 305
Summer School, etc., that grade will be added to the student’s transcript as a letter grade and
calculated in the student’s GPA. It will not replace the grade received at BHS.
OFF-CAMPUS ENROLLMENT OPTIONS:
1. Students may choose to attend area post-secondary institutions in accordance with their
Individual Plans of Study (IPS). This attendance may be online, and/or physically IF
scheduling can be worked out.
o Students must apply and request prior approval from the principal. Students must
submit proof of enrollment to the BHS administration within one week of the start of
the semester.
2. Students must earn a grade of “C” or better to receive “Elective” credit on their high school
transcript from any off-campus course. Concurrent college courses (taken from our teachers
here at BHS) will receive the grade earned and are used in the calculation of the student’s
high school GPA.
3. Students taking off-campus courses who are concerned with eligibility should contact the AD,
the counselor, or the principal.
FLEX SCHEDULE GUIDELINES: Seniors who are on schedule to graduate in eight semesters
may apply no later than October 1st (unless a waiver is granted by the principal) for permission
to attend school part-time (flex schedule) the second semester of their senior year. All completed
applications with the student and parental signatures shall be submitted to the counselor and will
be reviewed by the administration and the counselor. A meeting shall be held which shall include
parent(s) or guardians(s), the principal or designee, and the student. If approved, the application
shall be signed by all involved parties and filed in the student’s permanent file.
Seniors who attend part-time second semester are to be in the building only during class, when
meeting with a teacher, or during lunch block. Seniors attending part-time during the second
semester shall be allowed to participate in senior class activities and must be passing at least five
subjects of unit weight or they will not be eligible for KSHSAA activities.
FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENTS: All Foreign Exchange students must receive prior approval
from the Principal or Counselor before being allowed to enroll. The request must be made in
writing. Foreign Exchange students are required to be proficient in English prior to attendance at
BHS. All requests to attend must include a transcript translated into English and all requests
must be received at BHS by August 1 of each school year. Furthermore, the student must be
enrolled prior to September 20 of each school year. BHS will accept up to 5 foreign exchange
students per year. No more than 2 students from one country will be accepted each school year.
No more than 2 foreign exchange students will be accepted from one program. No diplomas will
be granted to foreign exchange students, and they will not go through the graduation exercises.
10They will be given a certificate of completion, and an official transcript of the completed
coursework at BHS will be mailed to the student’s home school.
All foreign exchange students will enroll in a full schedule containing the following courses
U.S. History
U.S. Government
English – appropriate level
Math – appropriate level
Science – appropriate level
Electives
GRADUATION EXERCISE PARTICIPATION: Senior students must complete all credits,
graduation requirements, and all financial obligations such as fees and equipment must be
resolved before being allowed to participate in the graduation ceremonies. Any student
wanting to graduate early must make a request in writing to the Board of Education.
Bennington High School
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT AREA CREDITS SPECIFICALLY
English 4 4 credits must be earned in English Comp & Lit
Social Studies 3 1 credit must be in American History
1 credit must be in American Government
1 credit must be in World History/Geography
Science 3 Credits must include Biological and Physical
Science
Mathematics 3 Any 3 of our Math credits fulfill this requirement
Physical 1 This must be fulfilled by taking 1 semester of Basic PE
Education/Health and 1 semester of Health
Fine Arts 1 1 credit in a Music, Drama or Art course
Personal Finance .5 **Beginning with the Class of 2023, Personal
Finance will be considered a Graduation
Requirement.
Electives 12.5 All other classes besides those listed above will be
considered elective classes
TOTAL CREDITS 28
REQUIRED
1112
13
ENROLLMENT FEES
All enrollment fees are due at the time of enrollment. A payment plan must be signed with the
school secretary if the total amount due cannot be paid at enrollment. Any missed payment voids
the payment plan and the total amount is due immediately. The Fee Schedule is as follows:
● Textbook rental fee $40.00
● Technology Fee $75.00
● Activity Fee $75.00 (All JH/HS)*
● Family Max of $150.00
● Class Dues (9-12) $30.00**
● Shop Fee (8 Grade)
th
$20.00
HS - $145-$220; JH - $130-205
* Activity Fee is assessed on all students for the various activities opportunities offered.
** Class Dues are assessed each year to offset the need to fundraise or sell tickets to support Prom.
OUTSTANDING FEES, UNRETURNED, OR DAMAGED PROPERTY: A notice of outstanding
fees will be mailed to your home at the end of the school year. This notice will be in addition to
any other notices parents have received during the school year. Any school property not returned
or returned damaged will result in the replacement cost of the item being charged. These debts
to the school must be taken care of by the parent or student prior to the student being enrolled in
the coming year; in the case of a graduating senior, the student’s diploma will be held until the
obligations are resolved. USD 240 reserves the right to turn outstanding balances over for
collection.
RETURNED CHECKS: Checks written to BJH/BHS that are returned by the bank for any reason
are sent back through the bank when the secretary is able to determine that the necessary funds
are available. The account holder will be responsible for any fees charged to BJH/BHS by the
bank. Repeated insufficient funds checks will result in the school requiring the parent/guardian to
pay on a cash-only basis. USD 240 reserves the right to turn outstanding balances over for
collection.
COUNSELING SERVICES
POST SECONDARY EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES: Students are encouraged to visit the
counselor to discuss post-secondary plans. The counselor maintains a library of materials
describing various post-secondary opportunities. The students are encouraged to read the
materials and visit with the counselor about post-secondary plans.
SCHOLARSHIPS:
Many students and parents are interested in scholarships as a way to help pay for post-
secondary education. Colleges, universities, and other educational institutions award the
greatest number of scholarships. Students need to investigate what scholarships are offered by
schools they are considering attending. Private groups and corporations award other
scholarships. Students need to check into the possibility of scholarships being offered by an
organization or place of employment of which they or their parents are apart.
Many scholarship opportunities will be posted on the USD #240 website; go to www.usd240.org
and click on “Counseling.” Also, once the student publication class is meeting, students/parents
can go to our F.Y.I. website and access scholarship information. Students should also regularly
check the bulletin board by the counselor’s office and with their English Teachers. Applications for
these scholarships are available, many times on-line. The counselor will inform seniors about
financing college and applying for scholarships during a senior/parent workshop offered early
during the fall semester. Applying for scholarships may require a screening test, an
autobiography or essay, letters of recommendation, and/or completion of special forms. It is
important to follow application directions carefully and to meet deadlines. Finally, the Career
Cruiser program is yet one more source for scholarship information.
14TESTING:
Several tests are administered to BJH/BHS students throughout the school year. Each test has a
purpose and can be very useful in helping the counselor, parents, teachers, and students make
education more meaningful for students. The counselor will explain each test in detail, when it is
offered, and review results with students when the scores are returned. It is the student’s
responsibility to sign-up for the optional tests.
Bennington JH/HS High students take the following tests:
● ACT (American College Testing) and SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) for college-bound
juniors and seniors. Most colleges require one or the other of these tests for
admission. Universities in the Kansas Regents System accept the ACT for
admission. Students should find out what test is required by the college or colleges they
are considering and register to take the appropriate test(s). Registration forms are
available from the counselor or by going online. These forms take some time to complete
and have deadlines. It is the student’s responsibility to complete the forms and mail
them. Both the ACT and SAT websites offer test prep materials that are very beneficial
and can improve a student’s score dramatically if taken seriously. It is recommended that
these tests be taken either in the spring of a student’s junior year and as early as
possible in the senior year. This is especially true if the student is applying to an out-of-
state college or if the student is applying for some scholarships or other types of financial
aid. Taking the test early also gives students more opportunities to retake the test if they
need to try to raise their scores. This is especially important if a student’s first set of
scores is slightly lower than those required for admission to a college, meeting a
scholarship standard, or participating in intercollegiate athletics at an NCAA Division I or
Division II school.
Registration deadlines and test dates are listed at the websites for the ACT: www.act.org,
and for the SAT: www.sat.collegeboard.org. At both of these sites, there is a great deal of
useful and helpful information that students should visit and carefully read.
● KANSAS ASSESSMENT TESTS will be given in an academic area according to state
guidelines.
The following assessments are designed to measure student achievement:
● MAP® - Measures of Academic Progress® supports efforts to maximize student learning
by identifying strengths and deficiencies in their current aptitudes.
● Pre-ACT will be given in the fall for all sophomores. This test is recommended for any
sophomore considering college. It is good practice for the ACT college admission test
and also has a component designed to assist students in career decision-making.
● PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship
Qualifying Test) This test is good practice for any student who may be taking the SAT
college admission test. Juniors taking the test are also taking the first step required for
the National Merit Scholarship Competition. Sophomores who take the test should take it
again as juniors.
● ASVAB will be offered in the spring to juniors. This test is a multiple-aptitude battery that
measures developed abilities and helps predict future academic and occupational
success in the military and beyond. It is administered annually to more than one million
military applicants, high school, and post-secondary students
● ACCUPLACER is a placement test offered by Cloud County Community College during
the school day providing students the opportunity to qualify to take College Algebra or
College Comp IF their respective ACT scores were not high enough to automatically
qualify (Math - 22; English - 18).
15● WorkKeys - ACT WorkKeys is a skills assessment test for those who are interested in or
are currently working for employers that place an emphasis on the National Career
Readiness Certificate (NCRC), which is the credential achieved by those who
successfully complete the exam.
GRADING POLICY
Letter grades will be defined as follows:
Grade of ‘A’ Average of 90% and above on assessments of specified course material.
Grade of ‘B’ Average of 80%-89.99% on assessments of specified course material.
Grade of ‘C’ Average of 70%-79.99% on assessments of specified course material.
Grade of ‘D’ Average of 60%-69.99% on assessments of specified course material.
Grade of ‘F’ Average below 60% on assessments of specified course material.
GRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA) CALCULATION:
BHS has the following grading scale.
A = 4.0
B = 3.0
C = 2.0
D = 1.0
F = 0.0
Grades from college courses or correspondence courses ARE NOT calculated in GPA
unless the course is being taken during the day for an Elective Credit. All other courses are
calculated in GPA (Smoky Hill Learning Center classes, SATS, USD 305 Summer School or
Independent Study courses).
It is the classroom teacher’s responsibility when reporting unfavorable performance to conference
with the student and if necessary with the parent (if appropriate action is not taken by the student
in a timely fashion). Progress reports can be communicated at any time, but can regularly be
viewed by parents at any time by accessing either PowerSchool and/or the Summit Learning
Platform.
INCOMPLETES:
GRADE RECOVERY - Toward the end of a semester, if it becomes apparent a student will be
unable to pass a course, or have an unsatisfactory grade, due to incomplete work and/or low
scores, the student may request to enter into a Grade Recovery Program agreement with the
teacher, where they will receive an “Incomplete” grade for a period of time defined within the
agreement with the teacher (usually two weeks beyond the semester’s end). During that time, the
student must show sufficient progress toward the successful completion of the content, or the
agreement will be void. As long as the course is satisfactorily completed by the end of the
extension period, the student’s transcript will reflect the earned grade. Failure to complete the
coursework within the allotted time will result in the student receiving the grade they earned on
the final day of the semester.
(The recovered grade cannot count toward a student’s KSHSAA eligibility as a part of what is
commonly referred to as the KSHSAA Five - Five new courses must be enrolled in and passed
each semester to maintain Activity Participation.)
COURSE COMPLETION - Should the student be unable to take advantage of the Grade
Recovery Program, upon receiving the “F” the student will have the option of being re-enrolled in
that same course the following semester to complete the unfinished work or go on to a new
course while simultaneously completing the unfinished work from the previous semester on their
own. Either way, the final grade will be reported as a new grade entry and the remaining “F” will
remain a part of the student’s transcript.
MAKE-UP WORK POLICY: In cases of illness, students will be afforded two days for every
day missed to complete makeup work. In cases where the student is absent for an unusually
16long period of time, special consideration will be given and a schedule for make-up work will
be worked out in cooperation with the student, parent, and teacher. Students are ultimately
responsible for their own work and should initiate contact with staff to get caught up.
ABSENCES during FINAL EXAMS: In case of absence(s) during the week of Finals, the student
must make arrangements with the teacher(s) to take the final(s) upon return from the
absence. No finals will be taken early without the approval of the principal.
STUDENT WITHDRAWAL POLICY: Students who withdraw from school, for whatever reason,
must checkout through the main office of the high school. A withdrawal form must be filled out
and signed by all teachers to whom the student is assigned. Unless a student officially withdraws
through this procedure, student records (such as health records, grade cards, and transcripts
indicating credit earned) cannot be mailed from the office to the student’s next school.
Parents/guardians must notify the school to approve a student’s request to withdraw. Withdrawing
during a semester may result in the student receiving NO credit for the semester.
REPORT CARDS: Grade cards will be distributed after the conclusion of each Semester. All bills
due, equipment returned, and time owed must be completed to receive grade cards at the end of
the year.
HONOR GRADUATES: A Senior with a cumulative 3.50 GPA or above at the end of eight
semesters will be designated as an HONOR GRADUATE and will wear a Gold Cord at
Commencement. Seniors with a cumulative 4.00 GPA or above at the end of eight semesters will
be eligible for outstanding scholar recognition.
HONOR ROLLS EACH SEMESTER: An honor roll will be published following each semester. A
student will be listed on the Alpha Honor Roll if he/she has a 4.00 GPA. A student will be listed
on the Principal’s Honor Roll if he/she has a GPA from 3.50-3.999. The Scholastic Honor Roll will
include those students with a GPA from 3.00-3.49. One “C” on a report card will not eliminate a
student from the honor roll if the GPA remains high enough to qualify that student.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY: BHS follows guidelines through our charter set by the National
Honor Society. All students with a cumulative GPA of 3.500 or above are invited to apply during
the 3rd quarter of their sophomore or junior years. The application process consists of
completing an application, procuring recommendations from people who can attest to character, a
personal interview, and a faculty review of each students’ leadership, character, activity
involvement, and community service. Continued membership depends on a student’s continued
adherence to the NHS membership criteria.
TRANSCRIPTS: BHS will mail, at no charge, transcripts to universities and colleges upon proper
request. Students may sign up in the School Office for transcript requests. Please allow two
school days for transcript requests to be completed. A written or in-person request must be made
when a transcript is requested for personal use.
SCHOLARSHIPS: Students applying for local scholarships are required to submit an ACT score,
therefore students should take the ACT so test scores are on file in the district office by March 1
of their graduation year.
Local Scholarships include:
● Bennington Lions Club Scholarships
● Nelson Rowe Scholarship
● Morgan Michelle Freeman Scholarships
● Israel D. Markley Charitable Trust Scholarships
● Wagner Family Scholarship
● BHS Alumni Scholarships
● Nina Horn Eisenhauer Scholarships
● Jim McClain Scholarships
● Janice Schmidt Scholarship
● Ottawa County Service Corporation Scholarship
17ATTENDANCE
ATTENDANCE POLICY: A student’s attendance record is a very important part of his/her
permanent record. There is a direct correlation between attendance and academic achievement.
Students are expected to be present and punctual for all classes throughout the year. The
responsibility of school attendance is with the student and his/her parents. When a student is
absent it is the responsibility of the parents to call the Office (488-3321 ext. 221) on the day of
absence. The call should be made before 9:30 AM. The Office is open at 8:00 AM for calls.
Any student who checks into school after 8:15 AM must first report to the Office and receive an
ADMIT to class. Any student who is counted absent for the first block will be presumed absent
for the entire school day if they do not report to the Office and get an admit slip. If a student is
absent from a class for more than ten days, the student may be dropped from the class by the
Principal and receive no credit.
If a student is absent from school and the absence is excused, daily work is expected to be made
up. Students will be given two days to make up homework for every excused day missed. It is the
responsibility of the student to initiate the make-up work immediately upon return to each class.
The classroom teacher will determine the make-up work. Students who miss school because of
an UNEXCUSED absence will be required to complete the daily work but teachers are not
required to give credit. Exams and major assignments must be made up by the student in order
to receive credit.
The Principal will determine whether the absence is excused or unexcused. Kansas State Law
allows USD 240 to accept only the following as valid reasons for excusing an absence:
1. Illness- Short or long-term illness (verified by notification from a doctor).
2. Medical Appointment- Appointment for medical treatment (an appointment card may
be required from the student upon return and be given to the secretary).
3. Family Crisis (Sudden Illness, Death in the Family, Major Medical Procedures, Etc)
4. Extended Absences- (Family Vacation) When expressly requested by the parent or
guardian and prior arrangements have been made in preparation for the absence as
defined previously in the Student Handbook.
5. School Approved Activities
DAILY SCHEDULES
CLASS SCHEDULE: The regular school day consists of four instructional periods from 8:15 AM -
3:25 PM. Students are allowed 5 minutes for passing time. The 3 period is longer in length,
rd
which includes the class period and a closed lunch period. Because each class a student is
enrolled in meets every other day for 90 minutes, good attendance is very important.
A Daily Bulletin is distributed and posted on-line in PowerSchool to inform students, parents and
staff members of school activities and A/B schedule for that day, and special events/activities
planned for that day. Announcements are included in the Daily Bulletin as well as activities and
students should get in the habit of reading these daily.
CLOSED CAMPUS: BJH/BHS has a CLOSED CAMPUS. Once students arrive on campus for
their school day, they may leave campus ONLY WITH PRIOR PARENTAL PERMISSION AND
WITH PERMISSION TO LEAVE THE BUILDING that can only be obtained from the Office. The
following student checkout procedure will be as follows:
1. Parents are to notify the Office (in person or by phone) and explain why the student must
leave the school during the day.
1. Our Lunch Time is CLOSED per the Twin Valley BOE and therefore, students
leaving for lunch is NOT permissible. Parents may bring lunch to students but a
student may not leave to go get lunch.
1. Fast-Food may not be taken into the cafeteria in original containers per
State Health Code. It must be repackaged in unmarked containers or
plain paper.
182. Before a student leaves the building, he/she must first go to the Office and sign out. No
student is to leave the building until they have been approved to do so through the Office. If
a parent cannot be reached, an administrator can give permission if there is a legitimate
reason.
3. Upon returning to school, at any time, students are to check-in at the office to receive
an admit slip to class.
● Students returning from an appointment will be required to present an appointment
receipt when they sign-in if a parent has not notified the school of the appointment.
EXCESSIVE TARDIES PROCEDURE: It is the responsibility and judgment of the classroom
teacher or staff member to determine when a student is inexcusably tardy. Once three tardies
have been reached, the discipline code applies (See Matrix Appendices). Once a student has
missed twenty minutes of class, the tardy is considered an absence.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES: Per K.S.A. 72-1113: A student is considered truant if he/she is
inexcusably absent the substantial part of either three consecutive days (15 attendance blocks),
five days (25 blocks) within a semester, or seven days (35 blocks) within a school year.
A. Students gone from school unexcused will be required to make up the class time that
was missed.
B. Excessive unexcused absences may result in students being referred to the District
Attorney and/or being dropped from the school rolls.
C. Once a student’s excused absences reach in excess of 25% of the total attendance
periods in a given grading period, all further absences will be considered unexcused.
D. By state definition, a student who is absent in excess of 15 days in a school year is
considered Chronically Absent.
SEVERE WEATHER -- SCHOOL CLOSING: The decision to close school because of severe
weather is made by the Superintendent. School closings will be announced over the radio and
TV. The school district also has access to “the School Messenger” system that makes automatic
calls to the phone(s) of the parents’ choosing. It will always be the right and privilege of parents
to excuse children at school during severe weather or any other good reason when the pupil’s
health and safety may be questioned.
STUDENT CONDUCT
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY:
Students in JH/HS high school will have many opportunities to become actively involved in the
learning process. The benefits derived from original learning can be great. It is important
students who are engaged in study will be responsible for doing their own work. In the event that
students are found to be involved in academic dishonesty (i.e., cheating, plagiarism, etc.) they
must realize that serious consequences will follow. No credit will be awarded for the assessment
in which the dishonesty occurred, and an opportunity to re-do the assignment will be at the
discretion of the teacher.
Plagiarism - Refers to both copying/representing someone else's work as you own as
well as providing the original work to be copied.
CLASSROOM CONDUCT:
Classroom policies and conduct are formulated by the teacher and approved by the
administration. Violation of classroom conduct or policy may result in the use of discipline
options. Repeated violations may result in removal from the class with no credit.
SCHOOL PROPERTY:
A student is responsible for the full replacement cost of lost or damaged school property assigned
to the student, including locks, athletic uniforms, and athletic equipment.
School property lost or damaged by a student will be assessed under the following
categories:
191. Vandalism – payment of all charges, including labor, plus possible
suspension.
2. Damage or destruction unintentional but due to a student violation of a
rule, regulation, policy, or direction of one in authority – payment of all
charges, including labor. Other disciplinary measures may be
considered.
3. Accidental damage created by circumstances beyond the control of the
student-student is not charged.
BULLYING/HARASSMENT
USD-240 TWIN VALLEY SCHOOLS
BOARD POLICY
The board of education prohibits bullying in any form on school property, in a school vehicle or at
a school-sponsored activity or event. The administration shall propose and the board shall review
and approve a plan to address bullying on school property, in a school vehicle or at a school-
sponsored activity or event.
The plan shall include provisions for the training and education of staff members and students
and shall include appropriate community involvement as approved by the board. Students who
have bullied others in violation of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and
including suspension and expulsion. If appropriate, students who violate the bullying prohibition
shall be reported to local law enforcement.
COMPUTER USE GUIDELINES FOR STUDENTS
The USD 240 BOE has made technology devices available to all students in grades 7-12. There
will be a mandatory orientation meeting for all new students and their parents at the beginning of
the school year. Guidelines for the acceptable use of the computer will be discussed and
contracts signed by students and parents at this meeting. Returning students can review this
information and sign the agreement at enrollment and in a meeting the first week of the school
year. Each student will be required to pay in full a non-refundable $75.00 technology fee due at
enrollment.
Students who willfully violate the Acceptable Use Policy regarding the school computers are
subject to the following consequences:
1 st
offense – loss of internet access for one week
2 nd
offense – loss of internet access for two weeks
3 rd
offense – loss of internet access for one month
4 th
offense – loss of internet access for the remainder of the semester
If a student corrupts the administrative password(s) and/or creates an extra administrative
account, the student will lose their computer for the remainder of the semester, or for at least one
month.
DISCIPLINE
An essential ingredient in the operation of a school is self-discipline. The basic philosophy of
BJH/BHS is that students are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible manner. The
education of all students is extremely important and any behavior that interferes with learning
reduces the effectiveness of both teacher and student. It is not the intent, nor is it possible to list
all behavior guidelines to be followed. Students must be aware that there are consequences to
inappropriate behavior and violating established rules. Common sense and cooperation are
necessary for a satisfactory experience at BJH/BHS. We are proud to be a school represented
by diverse populations. All students are expected to treat each other with respect and dignity.
Serious administrative disciplinary consequences will result in violating another person(s) rights
as an individual.
20The State of Kansas permits the suspending or expelling of any student for “just cause”. It is our
hope that it will not be necessary to exercise this option, but it should be understood that if it
seems to be for the best interest of the student and/or student body as a whole, it will be
done. Student conduct while attending school or school activities reflects each student’s
character and background. Always remember to respect yourself, your school, your parents, and
the school’s staff. A few of the policies and rules of conduct that students need to be aware of:
1. Each staff member has full authority over all students in the classroom, any place in the
building, on school grounds, and at any school activity, home or away.
2. Each teacher has full authority in his/her classroom, and only when necessary will the
principal be called on.
3. Defacing or destruction of school property will not be permitted. This includes marking or
scratching on desks, chairs, tables, walls, lockers, books, etc.
4. A student shall not use language or exhibit actions or gestures that can reasonably be
considered profane, indecent, or obscene.
5. There should be no smoking or chewing of tobacco by neither students nor staff in the
school building or on school grounds. Tobacco in any form will not be carried at school
or school activities. As it is in violation of Kansas law, students caught carrying or using
tobacco will be subject to consequences as listed within the Matrix (see Addendum).
6. Any student guilty of knowingly possessing, selling, using, transmitting, or being under
the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drugs on school property or school activities
will be suspended. The use of drugs authorized by a medical prescription from a
registered physician is not a violation of this rule.
7. Students should not run in any part of the building other than the gymnasium. The stairs
and hallways are not to be used as a place to lounge or sit as it restricts the flow of
students, teachers, and visitors moving to and from classrooms.
8. Students should not use cell phones, iPods, MP3 players, or any other new or similar
technological devices during class time without teacher permission. Students are to be in
class during class time, not out of class using these devices. Field trips or other bus trips
would be an exception with sponsor permission.
DISCIPLINE OPTIONS:
DETENTION TIME –
Up to 2 hours:
Every attempt will be made to notify parents of the amount and reason for the detention before it
is served. Detention time assigned by instructors must be completed the next day or within the
week of being assigned and must be served in blocks of at least thirty minutes until the time
commitment is met. If this is not possible due to emergencies, the student must make
arrangements with the teacher assigning the time or the Principal. Teacher-assigned detention
time must be completed with the teacher who makes the assignment or his/her designee. Failure
to complete time will result in additional detention time being assigned and potentially suspension
from school. Students who are out for any activity should serve detention time prior to reporting
to the activity or practice unless other arrangements are approved.
AHD (After Hours Detention) –
(3 hours):
AHD will be assessed for serious or repeated violations of the school conduct code. AHD will be
on a specified day of the week. Parents will be notified of the date and reason for the time.
Students are expected to serve the entire 3hr block on the date scheduled. Failure to serve AHD
when scheduled will result in time being doubled unless the parent made prior arrangements.
Repeated failure to serve may result in Out-of-School Suspension.
21OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS) –
OSS will be assessed for more serious or repeated violations of the school conduct code.
Students given OSS may not be on any District-owned property nor may they practice, attend
events, or participate until the suspension is completed in full.
DISCIPLINE MATRIX
* See Addendum
WEAPONS OR DANGEROUS MATERIALS:
USD 240 will not tolerate the possession or use of any weapons and/or dangerous materials on
school property or at school activities. A student shall not knowingly possess, handle or transmit
any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon or dangerous materials at school, on
school property, or at a school-sponsored event.
1. Definition of weapons and/or destructive devices means: A) Any weapon which will or is
designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an
explosive; B) Any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; C) Any explosive, incendiary or poison
gas, bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile
having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than a quarter ounce, mine or similar
device; D) Any weapon which will, or which may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by
the action of an explosive or other propellant; any combination of parts either designed or
intended for use in converting any device into a destructive device described in the two
immediately preceding examples, and from which a destructive device may be readily
assembled; E) Any bludgeon, sand club, metal knuckles or throwing star; F) Any knife,
commonly referred to as a switchblade, which has a blade that opens automatically by hand
pressure applied to a button, spring or other device in the handle of the knife, or any knife
having a blade that opens or falls or is ejected into position by the force of gravity or by an
outward, downward or centrifugal thrust or movement; G) Any knife with a blade in excess of
4” in length; H) Any electronic device designed to discharge immobilizing levels of electricity,
commonly known as a stun gun.
2. Penalties for possession shall result in expulsion from school for a period of one calendar
year, except the Superintendent may recommend this expulsion requirement be modified on
a case-by-case basis. The Superintendent or the Superintendent’s designee shall conduct
expulsion hearings for possession of a weapon or dangerous materials. Students violating
this policy shall be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agency and if a juvenile to
SRS.
DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS
The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students on school
premises or as a part of any school activity is prohibited. This policy is required by the 1989
amendments to the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, P.L. 102-226, 102 St. 1928.
(Cf.LDD)
Students who are suspended or expelled under the terms of this policy will be afforded the due
process rights contained in board policies and Kansas statutes, KSA 72-8901, et seq. Nothing in
this policy is intended to diminish the ability of the district to take other disciplinary action against
the student in accordance with other policies governing student discipline. If a student agrees to
enter into and complete drug education or rehabilitation program, the cost of such a program shall
be the responsibility of the student and his or her parents. PARENT NOTIFICATION OF
SUSPENSION: Written notification that a student has been suspended, in-schoo,l or out of
school, shall be handed or mailed to the parents or guardians within twenty-four hours of the time
of the suspension.
SEARCH OF STUDENTS AND PROPERTY:
The Principal has the right to search a student’s person and property on school premises with
reasonable suspicion a violation has occurred or is occurring. School officials have the right to
search student lockers at any time. The BJH/BHS Principal may contact the Ottawa County
Sheriff’s Department to assist in the search of the student’s person and property in cases where
probable cause exists.
22WORKING K-9’S:
The USD 240 board continually seeks to foster and maintain a safe environment for the students
and staff of USD 240 schools. In an attempt to meet this challenge, the board of education will
provide random searches of our school grounds throughout the school year by the Ottawa County
Sheriff's Department. These searches are random and will be performed by certified dogs and
register handlers. Violations, which might be discovered during the search, will be subject to
consequences as described in the school handbook and all mandates required by Kansas and
Federal Laws. The school will work in full cooperation with the Ottawa County Sheriff's
Department if such action is necessary.
DRESS CODE AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE:
The general atmosphere of a school must be conducive to learning. As we prepare our students
for life after high school which may include college, career, or both, it is important to observe
quasi-business casual appearance.
The following list includes examples of inappropriate attire but is not all-inclusive:
● Clothing or body adornments with offensive, sexually suggestive, vulgar, profane,
ethnically derogatory messages, pictures, or symbols, depictions or styles of Satanism,
illegal substances, drug paraphernalia, tobacco, or alcohol.
● Articles of jewelry or articles on clothing, which are potentially hazardous, such as chains
or studded bands, or have sharp points, etc.
● Clothing or styles identified to be associated with gangs or gang activities including
specific styles of dress such as pants and shorts not being worn at the student’s
waistline, specific colors, bandanas, clothing combinations, etc.
● Hats, bandanas, sunglasses, and gloves are not to be worn in the building at any time.
● Shorts and skirts of what would be considered of an inappropriate length.
● Tops and shirts that do not have a full front and back, full sides, and over-the-shoulder
straps (i.e. no halter tops, tube tops, bare midriffs.) Tank tops must have shoulder straps
with a width of at least two inches. They must also have side panels that do not expose a
significant amount of the sides or undergarments (No racer-backs, or “homemade”
muscle shirts with oversized torn sleeves).
● Holes in jeans, shorts, and skirts that do not follow the fingertip rule.
● Sleepwear, pajama pants, or sleepwear slippers.
● Clothing is inappropriate if any undergarments can be seen.
● Footwear is to be worn at all times.
The final determination as to whether clothing is/is not acceptable will be made by the Principal.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES:
The use of non-school issued electronic devices such as cellular telephones, iPods, laser-
pointers, tape or disc players, electronic games, headphones, etc. will be used only with the
permission of the classroom teacher. Non-school issued laptops, iPads, or other network-
dependent devices are not allowed.
FOOD AND DRINK:
Students are allowed to have water bottles in the classrooms as allowed by classroom teachers.
The consumption of snack-type foods will be at the discretion of individual teachers.
VANDALISM: In addition to other disciplinary consequences, students will pay for any damage
they inflict on school property. The maintenance department will determine a price and a student
may pay cash or work for the school at an hourly rate until the item is paid for. Appropriate
disciplinary action will also result.
TRAFFIC REGULATIONS:
All students with driving privileges are expected to arrive at school on time and legally park their
vehicles. All cars driven to school are to remain parked until the close of the school day unless
special permission is given in the office. Students are not permitted to be outside the building
during the school day without the Principal’s permission unless they are under the supervision of
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