2025-2026 Nixa High School Student/Family Handbook

Nixa Public School District Telephone Numbers

Central Office: 724-6200

High School

• Office: 724-3500
• Attendance Office: 724-3503
• Counselors: 724-3535

SCORE: 724-4080

Junior High: 724-6400

Inman Intermediate: 724-6600

Summit Intermediate: 724-4000

Century Elementary: 724-3800

Espy Elementary: 724-6820

High Pointe Elementary: 724-6700

John Thomas School of Discovery: 724-6800

Mathews Elementary: 724-6520

Early Learning Center: 724-4050

National Mental Health Crisis Line: 988

August 19  -  First Day of Classes
September 1  -  Labor Day-No School
September 26  -  PLC Day-No School
October  -  Parent Conferences throughout the month  - TBD
October 16  -  End of 1st Quarter
October 17  -  PLC Day-No School
October 24  - No School
November 4  -  PLC Day No School
November 24 - 28  -   Thanksgiving Break-No School
December 19  -  End of 1st Semester (Full Day of Class)
December 22 - January 5 -  No School-Christmas Break
January 5  -  No SchoolPLC Day-No School
January 6  -  First Day of 2nd Semester
January 19  -  No school-Martin Luther King Jr. Day
February/March  -  Parent Conferences throughout the month TBD
March 13  -  End of 3rd Quarter
March 16-20  -  No School-Spring Break
April 3  -  No School-Easter Break
April 6 - PLC Day-No School
May 22  -  End of 2nd Semester (1/2 Day of Class, 1/2 Teacher Work Day)
May 26 - 29 - Possible Teacher/Staff Make-up Work Days

Students, you are beginning the 2025-2026 school year in a fabulous facility. Please take pride in your building because it truly belongs to all of us in the Nixa community. Only with your help and cooperation can we maintain this landmark for future generations.

The policies and procedures in this handbook are designed to help the school run smoothly so that every student will have a successful year at Nixa High School.  This information has been carefully prepared to help students adjust to our school and become an integral part of it.  Teachers are eager to help you prepare for a successful adult life, so study hard.  We encourage students to get involved in co-curricular and extracurricular activities.  These activities are designed to help you enjoy school life.  Remember, your success is directly related to your efforts.

Above all else, our school must be relevant to the community it serves. We believe that because each person must act as both an individual and a member of the community, he/she should be given an opportunity to achieve an education commensurate to his/her intellectual capacity and personal needs. Inherent to such a system are the principles of democracy—equality and opportunity, freedom under the law, and the worth of the individual. 

The school must provide for the needs that exist in the community by 

1. developing a program of studies that includes basic skills, vocational preparatory, and college preparatory courses.
2. employing faculty members and administrators who recognize and help students develop individual differences in ability and interest.
3. encouraging students to expand their interest through the provision of varied extracurricular and co-curricular activities.
    

The mission of Nixa Public Schools, dedicated to our legacy of excellence, is to ensure all students achieve maximum potential and graduate with the knowledge, skills and character necessary to succeed as productive, informed, and engaged citizens in a global society by providing a quality, comprehensive, world-class education in a safe and secure learning environment.
 

Nixa is using a rapid notification system that allows schools to contact thousands of parents within minutes.  Nixa Public Schools has implemented this to substantially improve its ongoing communication with parents.  This service, currently through Blackboard Connect, is only available to parents of children in the Nixa School District.
 
Our Rapid Notification System allows school administrators to update parents quickly and efficiently with personalized messages, helping them stay actively involved in their child’s education.
 
The Rapid Notification System can do the following:

• Reach thousands of parents per minute (calls and text alerts)
• Send notifications even when school phone lines are down
• Inform parents the very morning of a child’s absence from school
• Rapidly deliver first-hand information during a crisis situation

Parents will receive the following types of alerts from schools:

• Routine notification calls do not directly affect the safety of students, staff, or parents.  These calls include upcoming events, delayed school bus routes, and absenteeism.
• Emergency notification calls are used during critical incidents where a child, staff member, or parent’s safety is in immediate jeopardy.  These calls include lockdowns, evacuations, and relocations.

Text alerts will be used to distribute quick reminders or information.  You will receive text alerts if your primary phone is your cell phone.  (You will have the option to opt out of receiving alerts.)  Text alerts will be limited but occur more frequently than routine notification calls.

Email Updates will be sent to the email address parents enter into the student information system.  These will include reminders and updates on various school events.  Emails will be limited but occur more frequently than our routine notification calls.
 

In case of inclement weather or other emergencies, announcements of school closings will be made through the Rapid Notification System and QuickNews in addition to information being posted on Facebook (www.facebook.com/nixapublicschools) and Twitter (@nixaschools).  Information will also be supplied to local television stations, radio stations, and other news outlets.  As soon as a decision is made, the media will be notified.  Our school website can also be accessed for school closing information or other important information at www.nixapublicschools.net.  Please check the district website or social media outlets for information rather than calling the school.  The school phone lines need to be kept open for emergency purposes.

If school is dismissed early, all efforts will be made to notify parents through the methods listed above.  Parents should have arrangements made each school year for emergency-type situations.  These arrangements should be discussed with your child/children so they will know what to do.

If school is announced as a late start, students will arrive two hours later than the usual start time, and bus routes will also run two hours later than usual.  
 

QuickNews is the district’s weekly e-newsletter sent out to all members of the community who sign up.  This service is delivered by e-mail and includes updates for events across the district and news items in the district.  Sign up for QuickNews on the District’s homepage at www.nixapublicschools.net.

As a political subdivision, employer, recipient of federal funds and educational institution, the Board of Education is prohibited from, and hereby declares a policy against, engaging in unlawful discrimination, including harassment creating a hostile environment, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability, age or use of leave protected by the Family and Medical Leave Act, in its programs, activities, and with regard to employment.  The Board is an equal opportunity employer.

Any person having inquiries, including person with impaired vision or hearing can obtain information as to the existence and location of services, activities, and services that are accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities by contacting the Executive Director of Special Services, 301 S. Main, Nixa, MO  65714, karenmcknight@nixaschools.net, (417) 724-6260, or the Sodexo Facilities Director, robertklug@nixaschools.net, (417) 724-6390.  Questions concerning the Nixa Public Schools’ compliance with regulations implementing Title II of the Americans Disabilities Act, Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, or Equal Opportunity Employment is directed to contact the following designated coordinators:

Equal Opportunity Employment – Mark McGehee, Faught Administration Center, 724-6270

Title VI and Title IX – Mark McGehee, Faught Administration Center,  724-6270

Section 504 – Dr. Karie Julian, Early Childhood Center, 724-4050 

Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – Karen McKnight, Faught Administration Center, 724-6260; Robert Klug, Sodexo, 724-6390

Homeless Students –  Jennifer Finke, Faught Administration Center, 724-3853
 

School Mascot   

The high-flying eagle

School Colors    

Red and Gray    

School Song   

Mid the hills of glorious Ozarks
Stands the school we love.
All her standards are the highest
Guided from above.
Hail to Nixa, Nixa High School
To you we’ll all be true.
We will cheer thy name forever
Staunchly we’ll back you.
 

The campus of Nixa High School is monitored by video surveillance 24 hours a day. To deter vandalism and increase building security/safety, all students not being directly supervised by a teacher/coach/sponsor must exit the building by 2:45 p.m. on regular school days. In inclement weather, students may wait in the counselor’s office lobby.

General

In order to promote a safe learning environment for all students, the Nixa Public Schools prohibits all forms of bullying. The district also prohibits reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of bullying among or against students.

Definitions

Bullying – In accordance with state law, bullying is defined as intimidation, unwanted aggressive behavior, or harassment that is repetitive or is substantially likely to be repeated and causes a reasonable student to fear for his or her physical safety or property; that substantially interferes with the educational performance, opportunities or benefits of any student without exception; or that substantially disrupts the orderly operation of the school. Bullying includes, but is not limited to: physical actions, including violence, gestures, theft, or property damage; oral, written, or electronic communication, including name-calling, put-downs, extortion, or threats; or threats of reprisal or retaliation for reporting such acts. 

Cyberbullying – A form of bullying committed by transmission of a communication including, but not limited to, a message, text, sound or image by means of an electronic device including, but not limited to, a telephone, wireless telephone or other wireless communication device, computer or pager. The district has jurisdiction over cyberbullying that uses the district's technology resources or that originates on district property, at a district activity or on district transportation. Even when cyberbullying does not involve district property, activities or technology resources, the district will impose consequences and discipline for those who engage in cyberbullying if there is a sufficient nexus to the educational environment, the behavior materially and substantially disrupts the educational environment, the communication involves a threat as defined by law, or the district is otherwise allowed by law to address the behavior.

School Day – A day on the school calendar when students are required to attend school.

Designated Officials

The principal of each building is hereby designated as the individual to receive and investigate reports of bullying. Each building principal shall designate at least two teachers or administrators in the building who are authorized to receive and investigate reports of bullying in the principal's absence or at the principal's discretion. 
The district compliance officer appointed in policy AC will serve as the districtwide anti-bullying coordinator. The anti-bullying coordinator will receive all completed investigative reports from all buildings and analyze the reports to identify any information that would inform the district's anti-discrimination and anti-bullying education and training programs. In addition, the anti-bullying coordinator will assist in making any relevant reports as required by state and federal law.

Reporting Bullying

School employees, substitutes, or volunteers are expected to intervene to prevent student bullying, appropriately discipline the perpetrator, assist the victim, and report the incident to the building principal or designee for further investigation and action. Any school employee, substitute, or volunteer who witnesses or has firsthand knowledge of bullying of a student must report the incident to the building principal or designee as soon as possible, but no later than two school days after the incident.

Students who have been subjected to bullying, or who have witnessed or have knowledge of bullying, are encouraged to promptly report such incidents to a school employee. Any school employee receiving such a report shall promptly transmit the report to the building principal or designee. 

If the bullying incident involves students from more than one district building, the report should be made to the principal or designee of the building in which the incident took place or, if more appropriate, to the principal or designee of the building attended by the majority of the participants in the incident.

Investigation

Within two school days of receiving a report of bullying, the principal or designee will initiate an investigation of the incident. Reports that involve students from multiple buildings will be investigated cooperatively by the principals of each building involved, or those principals may request that the district's compliance officer designated in policy AC conduct the investigation. If, at any time during the investigation, the principal determines that the bullying involves illegal discrimination, harassment, or retaliation as described in policy AC, the principal will report the incident to the compliance officer designated in that policy, who will assist in the investigation. If the alleged bullying involves a special education student or a student with disabilities, the principal will also notify the special education director.

The investigation shall be completed within ten school days of the date the report of bullying was received unless good cause exists to extend the investigation. Upon completion of the investigation, the principal will decide whether bullying or harassment occurred and, if so, whether additional discipline is warranted in accordance with the district's student discipline code. The principal will generate a written report of the investigation and findings and send a copy of the completed report to the district's anti-bullying coordinator. The principal or designee will document the report in the files of the victim and the alleged or actual perpetrator of bullying. All reports will be kept confidential in accordance with state and federal law.

If the incident involved allegations of illegal discrimination or harassment, the principal's decision may be appealed in accordance with policy AC. Student discipline may be appealed when allowed by law in accordance with Board policy.

The principal or other appropriate district staff will work with victims and their families to access resources and services to help them deal with any negative effects that resulted from the incident.

Consequences

Students who participate in bullying or who retaliate against anyone who reports bullying will be disciplined in accordance with the district's discipline code. Such discipline may include detention, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, expulsion, removal from participation in activities, exclusion from honors and awards, and other consequences deemed appropriate by the principal or superintendent. The district will also contact law enforcement when required by law or notify social media companies of inappropriate online activity when appropriate.

Even in situations where the district does not have jurisdiction to discipline a student for bullying, such as when the acts take place off campus and there is an insufficient nexus to the district, the principal or designee will take appropriate actions to assist student victims. Such actions may include, but are not limited to, contacting the parents/guardians of the victim and the alleged perpetrators, communicating that this behavior is not allowed on district grounds or at district activities, notifying the appropriate district staff to assist the victim, and taking additional action when appropriate, such as notifying law enforcement or social media companies of inappropriate online activity.

District employees and substitutes who violate this policy will be disciplined or terminated. Discipline may include suspension with or without pay, a negative evaluation, prohibition from being on district property or at district activities, mandated training, or other appropriate remedial action. Volunteers who violate this policy will no longer be permitted to volunteer.

Policy Publication

The district shall annually notify students, parents/guardians, district employees, substitutes and volunteers about this policy and the district's prohibition against bullying. A copy of this policy shall be included in student handbooks and posted on the district's website.

Training and Education

The district's anti-bullying coordinator will provide information and appropriate training designed to assist employees, substitutes, and volunteers who have significant contact with students in identifying, preventing, and responding to incidents of bullying.
The district will provide education and information about bullying and this policy to students every year. The principal of each school, in consultation with school counselors and other appropriate school employees, will determine the best methods for facilitating the discussion. Methods may include, but are not limited to: assemblies; homeroom presentations; class meetings; team or club meetings; special presentations by counselors, social workers, or mental health professionals; and open-house events. When practical, parents/guardians will be invited to attend.

In addition to educating students about the content of this policy, the district will inform students of:

1. The procedure for reporting bullying.
2. The harmful effects of bullying.
3. Any initiatives the school or district has created to address bullying, including student peer-to-peer initiatives.
4. The consequences for those who participate in bullying or engage in reprisal or retaliation against those who report bullying.

School counselors, social workers, mental health professionals, school psychologists or other appropriate district staff will educate students who are victims of bullying about how to overcome the negative effects of bullying including, but not limited to:

1. Cultivating the student's self-worth and self-esteem.
2. Teaching the student to defend him- or herself assertively and effectively without violence.
3. Helping the student develop social skills.
4. Encouraging the student to develop an internal locus of control.

Additional School Programs and Resources

The Board directs the superintendent or designee to implement programs and other initiatives to address bullying, respond to such conduct in a manner that does not stigmatize the victim, and make resources or referrals available to victims of bullying. Such initiatives may include educating parents/guardians and families on bullying prevention and resources.
 

Students and parents should be aware that the Nixa Board of Education has specific policies concerning the possession and/or use of these items at school. Students with tobacco products, e-cigarettes, vaporizers, cartridges, and over-the-counter medication in their locker or possession on school premises, school buses, and/or at school-sponsored activities will be disciplined according to the Discipline Matrix below. Students involved with drugs/alcohol are subject to a 20-day suspension with the possibility of reducing the suspension to 10 days if they agree to an assessment by a substance abuse counselor. Refusal to obtain a drug screening will uphold the 20-day suspension. See the discipline matrix for the consequences of a repeat offense.
 

Vape (tobacco/nicotine)

Possession or under the influence of⁽¹⁾

1st offense - 3 days in-school suspension

2nd offense - 3 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - 5 days out of school suspension

Sharing of⁽²⁾

1st offense - 5 days in-school suspension

2nd offense - 3 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - 5 days out of school suspension

Sale or intent to sell⁽²⁾

1st offense - 3 days out of school suspension

2nd offense - 5 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - 10 days out of school suspension

---

Prescription drugs, THC Products, Alchohol

Possession or under the influence of⁽¹⁾

1st offense - 20/10* days out of school suspension

2nd offense - 45 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - 180 days out of school suspension

Sharing of⁽²⁾

1st offense - 45 days out of school suspension

2nd offense - 90 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - 180 days out of school suspension

Sale or intent to sell⁽²⁾

1st offense - 90 days out of school suspension

2nd offense - 180 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - 180 days out of school suspension

---

Methamphetamines, Cocaine, LSD, and Other Illegal Drugs

Possession or under the influence of⁽¹⁾

1st offense - 90 days out of school suspension

2nd offense - 180 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - Expulsion

Sharing of⁽²⁾

1st offense - 120 days out of school suspension

2nd offense - 180 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - Expulsion

Sale or intent to sell⁽²⁾

1st offense - 180 days out of school suspension

2nd offense - 180 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - Explulsion

---

Serious Threat-Injury

1st offense - 45 days out of school suspension

2nd offense - 180 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - Expulsion

---

Serious Threat-Weapon

1st offense - 90 days out of school suspension

2nd offense - 180 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - Expulsion

---

Serious Threat-Kill

1st offense - 180 days out of school suspension

2nd offense - 180 days out of school suspension

3rd offense and beyond - Explulsion

---

⁽¹⁾ A student who receives a first or second offense for being in possession or under the influence of a vape, prescription drug, THC product, alcohol, meth, cocaine, or LSD who receives a second offense with these substances will move to the 2nd offense for whatever category the second offense prescribes. (For example, a student in possession of a THC dab pen who then shares alcohol with a student would receive a 90-day OSS, and any 3rd offense involving a prescription drug, THC product, or alcohol would receive a 180-day OSS.)

⁽²⁾ Any subsequent offense involving a vape, prescription drug, THC product, alcohol, meth, cocaine, or LSD will incur a suspension equal to or greater than the previous offense (For example, a first offense for sale of a prescription drug followed by possession of alcohol (2nd offense) would result in a 90-day OSS.)

* 20 days of OSS may be reduced to 10 with agreement to a drug evaluation.
 
PASS (see below) will be offered for OSS over 21 consecutive days.
Actual days of OSS may vary slightly to best fit natural breaks in the calendar.

Program Overview

This program would be available for students in grades 7-12 suspended for 21 or more days consecutively (unless related to a serious threat/violence). The purpose is to provide students an opportunity to stay connected to school and receive assistance completing virtual coursework while serving their suspension. Location: SCORE HS Times: PASS would be from 3:00-6:00 PM on Monday through Thursday on days school is in session with each day having a different academic focus (Monday=ELA; Tuesday=Math; Wednesday=Science; Thursday=Social Studies).

Student Guidelines

1. Attendance: To participate, students must meet attendance guidelines (maximum of three (3) absences during their assigned OSS; two (2) tardies or early departures would be considered an absence).
2. Behavior: Students are expected to follow all instructions/requests/rules of the supervising teacher. Failure to do so will result in removal from the program for the duration of the original OSS assignment. Any serious violation of school rules/policies will follow the school discipline code and could result in additional OSS. Cell phones or other PEDs (Personal Electronic Devices), with the exception of the school-issued Chromebook, are not to be used during PASS time.
3. Academic Progress: Students are expected to use the time at PASS to work on their coursework while having the opportunity to get assistance from a teacher if needed. Failure to use the time for that purpose would result in removal from the program.

Attendance Incentive 

Students who attend the program regularly, maintain/earn grades of 70% or greater, and have no instances of misconduct may earn a reduction in the total number of OSS days served.

• Students that have perfect attendance (0-absences) during their assigned time for PASS and meet the grade and conduct criteria above can reduce their total OSS days by 20% (rounded to the nearest whole day).
• Students that have only one absence (1) during their assigned time for PASS and meet the grade and conduct criteria above can reduce their total OSS days by 15% (rounded to the nearest whole day).
• Students that have only two absences (2) during their assigned time for PASS and meet the grade and conduct criteria above can reduce their total OSS days by 10% (rounded to the nearest whole day)

Instruction: Students who are serving a long-term OSS will be assigned Edgenuity virtual courses. Some courses offered at Nixa High may not be available via Edgenuity and may result in less than a full course load (depending on an individual student’s schedule). Core area classes will take priority in determining which Edgenuity courses are assigned. Students will be expected to work on the courses each evening, with the teacher being one resource to assist with questions.  The PASS teacher will not be doing direct instruction.

Disciplinary Appeal Hearing: Per Board policy, students suspended for more than 10 consecutive days have a right to appeal their suspension to the Board of Education or a Three-Member Committee of Board members. The timeline to request an Appeal Hearing will be outlined in the superintendent’s suspension letter. Appeal Hearings are scheduled based on the availability of Board members and relevant administrators, which normally takes between two to four weeks to hold once officially requested. Students may begin participating in the PASS program after their Appeal Hearing is completed OR parents may waive their right to an Appeal Hearing, and students may begin participation within one week of the issuance of the long-term suspension. The reduction in OSS days would be based on the first day of attendance in the PASS program. 

Discipline Appeal Hearing Waiver: The parent/guardian may sign a waiver of appeal and request the student begin participating in the PASS program on the earliest possible date (determined by the school district). Failure to follow the attendance and behavior guidelines of the PASS program and the NHS discipline code would result in removal from the program, and the conditions/dates of the original suspension would be imposed.
 

In order to provide our students with a safe and healthy environment, aerosol cans are not permitted on school premises, school buses, and/or at school-sponsored activities. Violations will result in disciplinary action ranging from ASD to suspension.

Students are not permitted to bring open containers of food or beverages into the building upon arrival or carry them in the hallways.  Food and beverages are permitted only in the cafeteria/commons area.  This area is open before school begins and during lunch.  On special occasions, food/beverages may be allowed in classrooms.  Consequences for such violations may range from confiscation to suspension.

Visitors with proper business to conduct at the school shall be welcome at the school after they check in at the principal’s office.  Visitors are required to produce a form of photo identification and must wear a visitor identification badge after checking in.  Students may not have friends or relatives here simply to visit during the day.

All students are required to obtain a student identification card.  An ID card is provided to each student at no cost during the first three weeks of school. Students must have their current year student identification card with them at all times during school hours and at all school functions, including school dances (non-student attendees to school dances must have some form of valid photo identification for admittance).  Failure to properly display their ID will result in one After School Detention.  The ID card will be equipped with a bar code which can be scanned in order to buy school lunches.  A fee of $5.00 will be charged to replace lost ID cards. Disciplinary action will be imposed if students fail to display their student ID, alter their ID, or possess another student’s ID.  
 

Personal telephone messages will not be delivered.  Students will only be called out of class in cases of emergency.
 

In an effort to maintain a positive learning environment that is safe and free from distractions, personal electronic devices (cell phones, smart watches, AirPods/earbuds, headphones, Bluetooth speakers, MP3 players, portable video games, etc.) may not be displayed or used from the beginning of the school day until the end of the school day, including, but not limited to, instructional time, meal times, breaks, time between classes, and during study halls. At the start of the school day students will silence or power off their cell phones and other electronic personal communication devices and place them in a location where they will not be seen. Cell phones may be used before school, after school, and during school when authorized by the teacher for educational purposes. This policy will be in effect for all students, except as permitted by RSMo 162.207.3(3). (For a complete definition of “Personal Electronic Device” and “Use,” refer to Board Policy JFCK and RSMo 162.207.) 

Students are not allowed to use their cell phones and other electronic personal communication devices at any point during the school day. There will be additional disciplinary consequences for students who use their cell phones at any time during the school day to:

• Take Pictures
• Record Videos
• Record Audio

Students are not allowed to use their cell phones and other electronic personal communication devices at any point during the school day. There will be additional disciplinary consequences for students who use Cell Phones in the following forbidden locations:

• Locker Rooms
• Restrooms
• Other District Schools (i.e., during A+ tutoring, internships, child development activities, etc.)

Potential consequences for personal electronic device violations include but are not limited to

● First Offense: principal/student conference, confiscation, detention, or in-school suspension.

● Subsequent Offense: confiscation, detention, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

Fundraising for student activities shall be held to a minimum and must have prior approval from the administration.  Sponsors of student activities are required to deposit all collected funds daily at the principal’s office.   Sponsors shall obtain a receipt from the secretary for such funds.  Sponsors shall maintain records and issue receipts for any funds collected from students and/or adults.  At no time shall any sponsor maintain a private or “petty cash” fund.
 

There are many situations where school employees will meet with individual students. School counselors meet with students to discuss academic and personal issues, teachers often discuss academic performance with students, and school officials meet with students when investigating disciplinary violations. These conversations are an essential part of the educational process, and it may be necessary for safety, legal, or other reasons to have a conversation with a student prior to contacting the parent/guardian. 

All students are entitled to due process.  This means there are certain procedures that school officials will follow prior to taking appropriate disciplinary actions.  Some of the procedures are outlined below: 

1. Short Suspension - An administrator has the right to suspend a student from school for up to ten (10) school days.  In such a case, the administrator will conduct an informal hearing with the student and all other appropriate parties.  The student will be given notice of the charge(s) against him/her and the opportunity to present his/her version of the incident.  If the student denies the charges, he or she will be given an explanation of the facts that form the basis of the proposed suspension.  If the administrator elects to suspend the student, the student will be told the dates and duration of the suspension.  The parent of the student will be notified in writing of the suspension.  The superintendent or his designee may revoke or modify a suspension.
2. Long Suspension - The principal may request the superintendent of schools to suspend a student for a period of time not to exceed 180 school days.  Should this recommendation be made, the student and their parent will be notified in writing.  Part of this notification will include instructions on due process and appeal procedures.
3. Expulsion - The principal and/or superintendent may request the Board of Education to expel a student.  Should this recommendation be made, the student and the parent will be notified in writing.  Part of this notification will include instructions on due process and appeal procedures.
4. Weapons - Students who are determined to have brought a weapon as defined by the Safe Schools Act to school shall be expelled from school for a period of not less than one year.  The superintendent of schools may modify the expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis.
    

Drills for emergencies are conducted periodically.  The signal for a fire drill will be a series of short tones on the intercom, the bells, whistles, or any other signaling device.  Each classroom has an emergency escape route map posted.  Students should leave the building quickly and quietly--no running or talking.  Each class should stay together, walk to the football field, and sit in the bleachers.  Classroom teachers will take roll.  One long tone will signal the all-clear.

The signal for a tornado/storm will be a continuous tone on the intercom, the bells, or other signaling device.  Students are to move toward the designated areas as posted on maps in the rooms.  As soon as they get in or as close as possible to the designated area, students shall kneel down, face the wall, and cover their heads with their arms.  Students should remain quiet in order to hear any instructions.  Another long tone will signal the all-clear.

A lock-down drill will be signaled by an intercom announcement giving directions.  When this is heard, all students should follow the direction of the nearest authority figure.  Students in the hall should go to the closest safe location.
 

The Board recognizes that situations of concern to parents/guardians or the public may arise in the operation of the district.  Such matters are best resolved by addressing them at the level where the concern originated through communication with the appropriate staff members.   The administration has developed procedures for addressing those issues, copies of which are available at each building.   Any concern regarding federal programs administered by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) may also be appealed to DESE or the United States Department of Education as permitted or required by law.

If a complaint has been made and appealed in accordance with administrative procedures, the parent/guardian or member of the public may appeal the issue to the Board by submitting a written request to the superintendent or the secretary of the Board.   The Board will address the complaint in an appropriate and timely manner.
 

Students transferring or dropping from school shall pick up a checkout form from the counseling center.  Students are to turn in all books to each teacher and have their teachers sign off on the form indicating the books have been received.  The grade at the time of withdrawal will also be recorded.  Students are to return the completed form to the counseling center.  Students planning to drop from school must participate in an exit interview with a counselor or administrator.
 

The administration is authorized by the Board of Education to establish appropriate dress standards.  The following guidelines should be observed unless specific activities are approved by the administration:

1. Obscene, vulgar, or profane slogans/pictures shall not appear on clothing or accessories worn to school.
2. Halter tops, tube tops, tops that allow bare midriffs, backless tops, fish-net mesh style tops, strapless tops, lingerie, or single-strap tops shall not be worn. Straps on tank tops should be at least 1” wide.
3. Shoes shall be worn.
4. Clothing and accessories that contain advertisements for and/or promote alcohol, tobacco, and/or drug-related products shall not be worn.
5. Clothing and accessories with racially inflammatory or verbally harassing material such as confederate flags or swastikas shall not be worn or displayed.
6. Wallet chains/cords, neck chains/cords, clothing chains/cords, or studded collars/bracelets or sunglasses shall not be worn at any time on school property.
7. Any type of extremism in dress or dress that is disruptive or distracting to the educational process (such as short skirts, low-cut tops, clothing that is too revealing, undergarments showing, sagging, or clothing with revealing holes or body paint) will be dealt with on an individual basis.
8. Dress and grooming will not disrupt the educational environment.
9. Athletic competition apparel is designed for performance during the designated sport or activity. Such apparel may only be worn during the school day in accordance with the school dress code (e.g., A student wearing a football jersey with pants would be in compliance with the dress code.)

When, in the judgment of the principal, a student’s appearance or mode of dress does not comply with the above criteria, the student may be required to make modifications.  Repeated violations or refusal to comply will result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension.

Dress Code for special events (graduation, prom, etc.) will be determined by the administration. Failure to comply may result in dismissal from the event.
 

A “gang” means any ongoing organization, association or group of three (3) or more persons, whether formal or informal, having as one of its primary activities the commission of one or more criminal acts, which has an identifiable name or identifying sign or symbol, and whose members individually or collectively engage in or whose members engage in a pattern of criminal gang activity. The “pattern of gang activity” means the commission, attempt to commit, conspiring to commit, or solicitation of two or more criminal acts, provided the criminal acts were committed on separate dates or by two or more persons who are members of or belong to the same criminal gang. 

No student on or about school property or at any school activity:

1. Shall wear, possess, use, distribute, display, or sell any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, or other thing that is evidence of membership in or affiliation with any gang.
2. Shall commit any act or omission or use any speech, either verbal or non-verbal (gestures, handshakes, etc.), showing membership in or affiliation in a gang.
3. Shall use any speech or commit any act or omission in furtherance of the interests of any gang or gang activity, including, but not limited to:
   • Soliciting others for membership in any gang; 
   • Requesting any person to pay for “protection” or otherwise intimidating or threatening any person;
   • Committing any illegal act or violation of school district policies;
   • Inciting another person to act with physical violence upon any other person.

No student shall use words or actions, verbal, written, or symbolic, meant to harass or injure another person; i.e., threats of violence or defamation of a person’s race, religion, gender, ethnic origin or display of racially inflammatory materials such as swastikas or confederate flags.  Constitutionally protected speech will not be punished.
 

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful and proper.  Students who become rude, obscene, and/or disruptive at school functions will be removed from the activity and will receive appropriate discipline.
 

Students defacing school property will be expected to pay the cost of any damage and/or replacement.  Students losing or misplacing school property will be expected to pay the cost of replacement.  Additional discipline for such actions may be considered.
 

We believe that attendance in school is important.  We believe when a student misses school, regardless of the reason, he/she is missing something of value. 

We believe the high school student, if he/she has not already done so, needs to learn the value of and develop a pattern of good attendance and punctuality.  A teenager who has developed a pattern of good attendance will be better prepared for the attendance requirements that will be placed upon him/her as an adult.  An adult may find that poor attendance leads to job dismissal and subsequent loss of income.  A student may find that poor attendance fails to meet the requirements for earning credit.

Frequent absences of students from the regular classroom learning experiences disrupt the continuity of the instructional process for everyone.  Make-up work does not contain the benefits of regular classroom instruction.  Therefore, good attendance is essential to receive the maximum high school educational experience.

The student is to provide written documentation/verification/certification in reference to the absence which shall be presented to the high school attendance secretary the day the student returns to school.  The attendance secretary will issue an admit slip to be presented to his/her teachers.  Students who report to class 20 minutes or more late upon arrival to school shall be counted absent. 

Any student who plans to attend a dance at NHS must be in attendance for at least 90% of the school days that semester leading up to the dance or next applicable dance in order to attend the dance. If a student has not been in attendance for 90% of the current semester and/or semester leading up to the dance, they may appeal their dance restriction due to attendance to their grade level principal and provide the proper documentation regarding their absences at least two school days before the end of ticket sales for the dance. Proper documentation includes: doctor's notes or letters verifying illness, injury, or medical treatment, medical appointment records, ongoing treatment or therapy documentation, legal documents, documentation of family emergencies, etc. Documentation regarding
vacations or travel will not be accepted.

1. The Nixa Public Schools’ attendance procedure will read that eight (8) days or the equivalent thereof will be the limit on absences per semester, and any absences over eight (8) will be considered excessive.
2. As a result of excessive absences, the school will:
   • Mail two letters to the parents, and
   • Attempt two personal contacts.  One will be a face-to-face meeting.
3. Through these contacts, the school officials will work with the parent/guardian to ascertain what the problem is and attempt to agree on a contract in an attempt to rectify the problem.
4. On the ninth (9) absence, the Juvenile Office and County Prosecutor may be notified of the absences with documentation of all contacts the school has made.
5. When the referral is received by the offices of the Juvenile officials and Prosecutor, they will review the school district report and determine what course of action to take, up to and including the filing of charges.  In addition, the Children’s Division (CD) of the Department of Social Services will also be notified. 
6. If the child continues to be absent from school after the initial referral to the juvenile and prosecutor’s office, the district will place a Hotline call to the Children’s Division (CD).
7. Any or all of the steps may be skipped if the family has a prior history with the Nixa Public Schools Attendance Task Force or if evidence of neglect is discovered.

All students of the Nixa High School will be held responsible for knowing, understanding, and complying with all of the attendance policies as well as informing their parents of these policies.
 

Daily Absence Reporting

1. All parents/guardians are encouraged to call the attendance office at 724-3502 or email nhsattendance@nixaschools.net the day the student is absent.   If a parent/guardian is unable to call the day of the absence, a note or telephone call to the attendance office is required the day the student returns to school following each absence.   Students who miss five or more consecutive days without parental contact will not be allowed to make up work without medical verification of absences.  Upon 5 and 8 days of a student’s absence from class, a letter will be mailed home to notify parent(s)/guardians(s) of these absences.
2. Students having over eight absences must provide medical or legal verification in order for the absence to be excused.  Excused absences allow the student the opportunity to complete missed work for full credit. Unexcused absences will result in the student only receiving a maximum of half credit on any missed assignments, quizzes, or tests.
3. If the parent, for some reason, fails to notify the school, the school may contact the parent.
4. Students who return to school without a parent’s excuse may be considered truant until the parent can be contacted to verify the absence.
5. All absences, including those approved in advance by parents or school officials, except those for school-sponsored activities, will count against a student’s days absent.  (The student should be careful in the use of absences because excessive absences may affect a student’s class participation grade.)
6. The school encourages doctor and dental appointments after school hours whenever possible to reduce the number of classes missed for medical reasons.
7. Students who leave school during the school day without prior parental consent and without checking out through the appropriate attendance office WILL be considered truant. Students must have parental consent and check out of school through the attendance office to be properly dismissed.
    

Students who have been absent from class must check in at the attendance office upon returning to school. The student must have a note from the parent or medical or legal documentation verifying the reason for the absence. A parent may also contact the school to verify prior to the absence. All students who check in with the attendance office will be designated as excused or unexcused for their time of absence.

Criteria for exemption of Final examinations:

1. Students must have a grade of 70% in the class, and,
2. 0-2 absences (in the class) per semester, and
3. No ISS or OSS on the student’s record for that semester.

All three items must be met to be exempt.

(Students that are exempt may choose to take the final.  However, it will only be counted if it benefits their grade.)  Missing school due to school-related activities has not been counted and will not count as absences.

*In the event the administration and/or Board of Education determine that the attendance policy/incentives will be rescinded during the school year due to serious public health concerns (i.e. pandemic event, etc.) all students will be subject to taking final exams.
 

Students must be in attendance at least four periods (excluding STAR) in order to participate in any school-sponsored or MSHSAA activity that night unless PRIOR permission is obtained from the principal. (Students must also be present on Friday for at least four hours in order to participate on Saturday or Sunday.)
 

Students in Grades 10-12 have an opportunity to spend one day each year as a job shadowing experience.  The necessary forms may be obtained from the College and Career Office.  This form requires signatures from a parent/guardian, all of the student’s teachers, the principal, and the College and Career Counselor.  Arrangements should be made at least one week prior to the requested day of job shadowing.  Job shadowing will not be allowed after April 30 or during finals. Job shadowing a family member is not permitted. 
 

School-sponsored or sanctioned activities (i.e., field trips, interscholastic competition, etc.) are exempt from and shall not count toward absences. Students who will be absent from class shall check with the teacher in advance to obtain make-up work prior to the absence.

We recognize that it is necessary for students to visit colleges from time to time as they prepare to continue their education. Students who wish to be excused to visit colleges should apply for college days before making the college visit.  A form for requesting college days may be obtained from the attendance office and must be returned to the attendance office prior to making the college visit. This form requires signatures from a parent/guardian, all of the student’s teachers, a counselor, and the principal.  In addition, a second form will be given to the student, which should be returned with the signatures from the proper college personnel involved in the visit.  College visit days are reserved for junior and senior students. Juniors are allowed (1) day per year. Seniors are allowed (2) days per year. Days are not to be taken after May 1st of each school year. The counselor’s office will organize several trips to area colleges/universities. Students are encouraged to sign up for these trips are they will be a school activity and not count against a student’s attendance or college visit days. Please see the counselor for more information on the dates and locations of these visits.
 

Seniors shall be permitted to enroll as either full-time or part-time students.  Students must have a minimum of four (4) credited classes. Part-time schedules will be approved through the counseling center.
 

A student is considered tardy if they are not in their assigned seat or station when the tardy bell starts to ring.  A fourth tardy during the quarter will result in one day of ASD.  A fifth tardy will result in two days of ASD.  Six or more will result in ISS.  Chronic tardiness is considered a serious violation of discipline.  For purposes of categorization, upon arriving at school, a student who arrives to class less than 20 minutes after the start of class will be considered tardy.  If the student arrives to class 20 minutes or more after the start of class, the student will be counted as absent.  Tardies are unexcused; only emergency situations will be considered.
 

Loitering is the act of remaining in a particular place for a prolonged amount of time without any apparent purpose. This includes students congregating in the restroom, when more than one student is in a bathroom stall at a time, or when students do not leave the school by 2:45 unless with a supervising teacher/coach/staff member.

First Offense: Detention, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out of school suspension.

Subsequent Offense: Detention, In-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension.
 

A student is considered to be out of assigned area on campus if the student does one of the following:

1. Comes to school but does not attend any or all classes or authorized activities. 
2. Obtains permission from a teacher or the office to go to a certain place on campus but does not go there.
3. Is somewhere other than their assigned location
    

Truancy is when a student:

1. Leaves the campus without permission from the office or goes to the parking lot without permission.
2. Is somewhere other than school when the parents think the student is at school.
3. Brings a parent-signed note that is forged, calls in acting like a parent, or sets forth an invalid reason for the absence.
4. Has an elective absence that was not approved in advance by school officials.
5. Students who fail to attend first hour due to oversleeping, apathy, avoidance of first hour tardies or other non-illness reasons. 
6. Has over eight absences without a doctor’s note, even with the parent's consent.  

Students who are truant will be allowed to make up work missed for a maximum of half credit, and disciplinary action will be taken as per the student conduct code. Truancy is also a violation of state statutes.  There are no school-sanctioned class “skip days.”

The scheduling process will take place during the spring semester and will involve planning activities between the student and counselors. During this process, students will check transcripts, verify graduation credits, calculate GPAs, discuss new course offerings, and evaluate individual courses for the upcoming year. In addition, they will learn about college dual-enrollment opportunities, as well as the A+ program. Students will be able to examine the course description book for the next year and ask individual questions pertaining to their interests and concerns. After these planning activities, the students will choose the courses they prefer for the following year. One of the most critical components of the scheduling process is the time set aside in the spring for SOAR conferences. During SOAR Conferences, counselors present information to parents about graduation requirements, the scheduling process, course offerings, and diploma types. Every effort is made to provide an opportunity to address parent questions pertaining to the student's future plans. The SOAR conference has proven to be a very positive strategy session in further ensuring each student’s academic success. The next step in scheduling is for students to individually speak to counselors to choose their preferred courses. The order of course scheduling will be assigned according to school attendance; the students with the best attendance will be scheduled first in their grade. Juniors will be the first grade to schedule, and freshmen will be the last.

The final step involved in scheduling is referred to as Arena Scheduling. A designated area will be set up so students can finalize the courses they have selected for the next school year. However, it is important to note that it is impossible for each student to have the schedule of their “first choice.” Due to the enormous amount of instruction and planning that occurs during the scheduling process, students will not be granted schedule changes during the academic year. The classroom teacher, counselors, or administration will initiate the only scheduling changes that may take place. These changes will likely relate to failure to meet the course’s prerequisite requirements.

The STAR program will benefit Grades 9-12 by offering tutorial sessions for students earning below 70% in any class. All students, including seniors with a partial schedule, will be required to report to their assigned STAR class Tuesday – Friday. 

• Freshmen will be required to attend STAR each Tuesday through Friday from 10:59-11:29. After the third progress report, freshmen can qualify for Privilege Time on Tuesday if all grades are 70% or above.  
• Sophomores will be required to attend STAR each Tuesday through Friday.   After the first quarter, sophomores can qualify for Privilege Time on Wednesday if all grades are 70% or above.
• Juniors will be required to attend STAR on Tuesday and Wednesday.  After the first three-week grade check, juniors can qualify for Privilege Time on Thursday and Friday if they maintain 70% or better on all grades.
• Seniors will have Privilege Time Tuesday-Friday.  All students, including seniors with a partial schedule, will be required to report to their assigned STAR class Tuesday – Friday.  After the first three-week grade check, seniors who earn below 70% will be required to attend STAR on Tuesday-Friday for three (3) weeks to improve their grades.

The STAR program provides each freshman with a supportive environment that helps ease their adjustment from junior high to high school. By placing advisors, counselors, and upperclassmen in STAR classes as mentors, all freshmen will receive:

1. A comprehensive transition program from their 8th-grade year through the end of their 9th-grade year. 
2. A support group in each advisory that consists of student advisors/mentors, a faculty advisor, and an academic counselor.
3. An ongoing orientation to high school that enables students to become familiar with the physical layout, policies, procedures, programs, personnel, and traditions.
4. A comfortable environment that allows the student to focus on their academic needs.
5. A mechanism for increasing student awareness regarding academic and co-curricular/extra-curricular opportunities.
6. Articulation of their freshman goals for high school. 
7. A Superstar class for all students failing a core class will be available for specialized tutoring.

During this time, students may seek help from teachers on assignments, visit the library, visit the counselor, eat in the commons, or take care of other school issues.  Students must stay in the commons and must stay away from exits/stairwells.  Food/drink must stay in the commons area.  Students who are disruptive during Privilege Time will have their Privilege Time revoked for a period of time and be subject to the discipline code for their infraction.  Teachers may require students to make up time and/or work during Privilege Time.  Failure to do so would be treated the same as failure to serve a 9th Hour.
 

Grades are based on the 4.0 system. Grades will be earned based on the following percentages:

Percentage Letter Grade 
100 - 95   A     

94 - 90     A-

89 - 87    B+       

86 - 84    B  

83 - 80    B-

79 - 77     C+         

76 - 74     C   

73 - 70     C- 

69 - 67     D+                              

66 - 64     D                   

63 - 60     D-                                                          

Below 60  F

Semester finals will be given in every class.  These finals will count between 10% and 20% of the semester grade.

1. Superintendent’s Honor Roll with Distinction - 3.8 minimum GPA 
2. Superintendent’s - 3.5-3.7 minimum GPA
3. Principal’s - GPA from 3.0 to 3.4
    

The standards for earning an Academic Letter are:

Seniors

1. Students must have a GPA of 3.55 or above with no C’s the 1st semester AND
2. GPA of 3.55 or above with no C’s for second-semester 4th progress report. Letter grades will be issued for this report and will be used to calculate GPA AND
3. Must take and receive a grade for 6 credited classes per semester.

9th through 11th

1. Students must have a GPA of 3.55 or above with no Cs for both first and second semester,
2. Must take and receive a grade for 6 credited classes per semester.
    

In the interest of encouraging and recognizing outstanding academic achievement, students meeting established criteria may graduate with honors.

• To be eligible for honors, a student must have the following:

1. Eight semesters of high school work from an accredited school as defined in Policy JECC, "Assignment of Students to School/Classes."
2. Enrollment at Nixa Public Schools prior to and continuously following the tenth school day of the student’s sophomore year if transferred from an unaccredited school.  Students enrolling in this scenario will have the eight semesters of high school work waived (1A.) if grades have been assigned for their freshmen year from the unaccredited school.  (Students must still meet all other requirements as defined in Board Policy JECC, the “Assignment of Students to School/Classes.”)
3. No grades were modified at any time by an IEP during the eight semesters of high school work. 

• Categories/Degrees of honor are based on cumulative grade point average as follows:

1. Summa Cum Laude = 3.8-4.0 G.P.A.
2. Magna Cum Laude = 3.5-3.7 G.P.A.
3. Cum Laude = 3.3-3.4 G.P.A.

• Grade points will be computed each semester using the semester grades earned in all classes.  The grade point average is calculated by dividing the cumulative grade points earned by the number of credits attempted, carried to one decimal point. Nixa High School uses a straight four-point scale. Nixa High School is a non-ranking high school. If a senior needs a rank for college or scholarship purposes, students may contact the counseling center for assistance.

      A     =     4.0     
      B     =     3.0     
      C    =     2.0    
      D     =     1.0
      F     =     0.0

• The student’s grade point average will be computed at the end of eight semesters of high school work in determining honors.  However, the seventh-semester cumulative grade point average will be utilized for all printed programs.
   

A progress report indicating the student’s grades will be sent home every three weeks. A report card indicating semester grades will be sent home following the conclusion of each semester.

Students must follow the admit process in order to make up work missed due to absence.  If the student does not follow the admit process he/she may make up the missed work for a maximum of half credit.  Students that follow the process will be given one day to make up the work for each day absent.  However, all make-up work will be due within seven days of the end of each semester.  Situations involving extended illness, hospitalization, or special circumstances will be reviewed on an individual basis.  Make-up work should be approximately equal to, but not necessarily identical to, missed work.  Make-up work should not interfere with class.  All make-up work is to be handled outside regular class time.  The responsibility for getting and completing the work rests with the student.  Missed exams are to be made up before or after school, not during the regular day.

It should be noted that not all learning can be “made up”.  Class participation, discussion, and other activities cannot be repeated. Skill courses where work can be accomplished by attendance only cannot be made up.  Experience of this type must be recognized as missed.
 

It is the philosophy of NHS that assignments given in a class are for a purpose. As a result, students are expected to complete all assignments in every class. Assignments have multiple objectives: they allow students to practice concepts taught, they allow teachers to evaluate student progress, and they make it possible for teachers to give feedback to individual students. Assignments should be completed for each class by the due date in order to receive the most benefit.  

Students who do not complete an assignment by the due date can receive partial credit if they submit the completed assignment at a later date. All late work must be submitted ten school days before the end of the semester so teachers can complete semester grades within a reasonable time frame.    

Students who repeatedly fail to complete assignments on time will be assigned an intervention. Some assignments must be finished within a certain time frame, so students who fail to complete a checkpoint on a multi-step project will immediately be assigned an intervention. Interventions may include but are not limited to academic ninth hours, STAR and ELO tutoring, parent contact, and meetings with administrators and/or counselors. If a student does not complete the requirements of an academic ninth hour, they will be assigned two after-school detentions (ASDs) as a result.

Students who need an extension on an assignment are expected to communicate with the teacher in advance. Extensions will be granted at the discretion of the individual teacher. Students should not expect extensions based on absence for major assignment deadlines that have been announced in advance (see Attendance Policy). 

Co-curricular, Dual credit, and Advanced Placement courses will follow the late work policies set forth by the instructor, Missouri State University, and the College Board.
 

Students will be allowed to complete one test retake per summative test for full credit. The retake test will not be the same as the original assessment. Multiple test retakes for the same unit summative will not be provided. Prior to retaking the summative test, students must complete all missing work for the unit. Teachers will provide remediation to students who want to retake the summative assessment. Summative retakes will need to be completed within two weeks of the summative grade being shared with students and, when possible, prior to the next summative assessment in the class. Any summative assessment given within ten days of the end of the semester is not eligible for retake. This includes the final exam not qualifying for a retake. Dual credit classes will align testing policies with university expectations.
 

Students may elect to participate in independent programs that offer high school units of credit.  The administration will require proof of successful completion of any such program.  The student may earn a maximum of three (3) units of credit towards graduation from outside programs or summer school with only one (1) credit earned per summer term from Nixa High School. Credits earned through the Missouri Course Access Program (MOCAP) are excluded from this calculation.
 

Nixa is privileged to offer online classes through the Canvas Learning Management System. These classes are rigorous and require self-discipline on the part of the student. Enrollment requirements and other information may be obtained in the counseling center. 

In compliance with Section 161.670, RSMo, Nixa Public Schools allows students to access virtual learning opportunities when it is in the best educational interest of the student. The district’s preferred provider for virtual learning is the MOCAP approved LAUNCH program (launchpad.fueledbylaunch.com/).

Please note the following parameters:

1. The student must be enrolled in Nixa Public Schools as a full-time student. Additionally, the student must have been enrolled in a public school as a full-time student the semester prior to accessing virtual coursework. Students must meet and maintain all pertinent residency requirements of the district. Virtual enrollment will only occur within the registration windows set by LAUNCH each Fall and Spring semester (enrollment closes 2 weeks into any given semester).
2. Acceptance into the virtual program for students with an IEP or 504 will depend on the decision of the IEP or 504 team, as they determine the best educational placement for the individual student.
3. Student performance will be reviewed each semester, and any D’s or F’s may result in the student being removed from the virtual learning program. If a student is removed due to lack of progress during the semester, it may result in loss of credit (if a suitable seated class is not available).
4. Students may work on virtual coursework either on campus or off, but may not travel back and forth throughout the day. If working on campus, students will have a designated classroom for their work and must report to the classroom in the same manner they would report to any seated class. 
5. Students are expected to complete all virtual coursework independently unless otherwise directed by the instructor. A student is in violation of the academic integrity policy when using the unauthorized use of AI tools to complete or assist with assignments. If a student is found to have used AI inappropriately, as determined by the teacher and administration, the student may be removed from the virtual course or courses that they are currently enrolled in at the discretion of administration and teacher. This may require the student to immediately return to the seated version of that course.

 

Nixa High School offers a differentiated diploma program to recognize those students that have taken courses aligned to the following areas:

AP Capstone Diploma Program- AP (Advanced Placement) courses and tests scores to meet the AP requirements

Honors Diploma- Honors and/or AP and/or Dual Credit courses along with other test and GPA requirements.

CTE Diploma- A minimum of 3 credits in the same CTE (Career Technical Education) strand (or 2 years of GOCAPS) along with other GPA and test requirements.

*See the graduation requirements chart for additional information
 

The Nixa Board of Education has issued guidelines for students interested in attending college classes while still attending Nixa High School.  If a student is interested, they should see the counseling center for details.  This program is voluntary in nature and all costs, fees, etc., are the responsibility of the student and parent/guardian.
 

Directory Information, as outlined in board policy JO, may be prepared for mass release (school yearbook, school directory, athletic programs, summer school, summer camps, PTA, businesses, churches, etc.) unless parents/guardians or an eligible student indicates that they do not wish the information to be disclosed. Directory information may consist of the following:  Student's name; date and place of birth; parents' names; grade level; enrollment status (e.g., full-time or part-time); participation in district-sponsored or district-recognized activities and sports; weight and height of members of athletic teams; dates of attendance; degrees, honors and awards received; artwork or course work displayed by the district; schools or school districts previously attended; and photographs, videotapes, digital images and recorded sound unless such records would be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy. Please be aware that if a request is made for your child’s information to NOT be included in Directory Information, then his/her name and relevant information may not be included in such things as athletic programs, graduation press releases, and the yearbook.  To request that your child’s information NOT be included in Directory Information, pick up a form in the office, sign and return.  This request must be made during the first 10 days of school.  
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the confidentiality of a student’s educational records.  It also requires schools receiving federal money to provide parents access to their child’s records and allows them to request modification of the child’s educational records.  This right is also extended to students the age of 18 or older.
 

The guidance counselors conduct a systematic program of group testing for students at Nixa.  The current listing of group tests given and grade to which they are administered may be obtained from the counselors’ office.

EOC (End of Course) Testing:  The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) requires students that are enrolled in certain courses take EOC tests at the conclusion of the course.  These tests will count for 10% of the course grade for the semester in which the student takes the test.  All students will be required to take the EOC test unless their course grade at the time of testing makes it mathematically impossible to pass the course.  Seniors who have not previously taken the required EOC tests will be required to take them prior to graduation. Seniors who have not taken the ACT, SAT, ASVAB, or WorkKeys Test will be required to take the WorkKeys Test prior to graduation.
 

Juniors and seniors may request to attend Ozarks Technical College during the spring pre-registration process.  Current requirements and forms are available in the counselors’ office.  Students should be aware that OTC’s calendar would be followed regarding days of attendance.  In the event of a Nixa late start or cancellation due to weather, students will not attend OTC.  
 

Students successfully completing a year of Career and Vocational education in an off-campus program that requires multiple attendance hours and transportation may submit a credit waiver to maintain timely progression toward graduation.  Credit waivers may be obtained in the counseling office and will apply to high school credits only.  Students planning to attend a four-year university will be required to meet specified college entrance requirements.  Students annually earning three credits in a district-approved vocational program may apply for a waiver of one credit to make up for the time/credit lost to attend the off-campus program.  (This option will be available to students attending classes at Ozark Technical College and is designed to support enrollment in career and vocational courses.)  All waiver applications are dependent upon approval by high school administration.
 

The A+ School Program is designed to ensure that regardless a student’s career goals, all NHS students will be provided selections of courses, career counseling, technology, and/or workplace skill development opportunities which are appropriate for them to achieve success. 

The three major goals of the A+ Schools Program are:

1. All students will graduate from high school.
2. All students complete a selection of high school studies that are challenging and for which are identified learning expectations.
3. All students proceed from high school graduation to a college, post-secondary vocational/technical school, or high-wage job with workplace skill development opportunities.

The A+ Schools Program encourages all students to focus on a career goal, which requires training beyond high school.  Students are asked to select a career path, plan coursework for all four years of high school, and progress toward a goal of additional training at the post-secondary level or high-wage job.  Students always have the option to modify or change their career goal and course of studies.

Since 2000, Nixa has been a designated A+ School.  Financial incentives will be offered to students who stay in school, maintain at least 95% attendance during four years at NHS, have at least a 2.5 grade point average, exhibit good citizenship, avoid the unlawful use of drugs/alcohol, and perform fifty hours of school-based unpaid tutoring/mentoring.  Beginning with the class of 2015, qualifiers must achieve a score of Proficient or Advanced on the Algebra I End of Course exam.  All funding is contingent upon state budget allocations for the A+ program.
 

The district’s guidance program provides important benefits to individual students by addressing their intellectual, emotional, social, and psychological needs.  This program is developmental and includes sequential activities designed to address the needs of all students by helping them acquire competencies in career planning and exploration, knowledge of self and others, and educational and vocational development.  The district’s guidance program addresses the needs of students in our elementary, junior high, and senior high schools as they encounter and deal directly with these and other important learning and life issues. Counselors work with all students, parents, teachers, administrators, and the community through a balanced program of direct and indirect services.  Large and small group structured guidance learning units provide systematic instruction for all students at all grade levels.  Counselors plan with teachers and then teach, team-teach, or assist in teaching these coordinated units in classrooms or in other large group settings.  Individual planning activities provided to assist all students are initiated in the upper elementary grades and are continued and expanded in the junior high and the high school years.  Individual, small group, personal, and crisis counseling are available to all students.  Consultation services for parents, teachers, and administrators concerning student behavior and academic progress are provided.

Building on the goals of the elementary and junior high, the Nixa Comprehensive Guidance Program in the high school assists students in becoming responsible adults who develop realistic and fulfilling life plans based on a clear understanding of themselves and their needs, interests, and skills.  Continued attention is given to helping students develop competence in decision-making, career planning, working with others, and accepting responsibility for their own behavior.
 

A student who becomes ill at school must check with the nurse before contacting parent(s).  The nurse will contact the parent(s) for dismissal permission if illness warrants such action.  Any chronic or acute health problems should be reported to the nurse for documentation in the student’s health record.  A student with an ailment or disability, which requires either limited or no physical education program, must have a physician’s note to that effect on file with the nurse.

Verification of current immunizations must be on file with the school nurse before new students begin classes.  Also, it is very important that the school have every student’s emergency information form on file with the nurse so that parents may be contacted quickly if necessary.  Parents, please be sure that home and work phone numbers are on file in the office and updated when changed.

Good attendance is important to students’ learning; however, there are times when you may be too sick to attend school.  You should remain at home under the following conditions:  

• If you are unable to participate fully in all school activities because of illness 
• When you have a contagious condition or a rash with an unknown cause 
• Fever of 100 degrees or more within the last 24 hours, without fever-reducing medication 
• Vomiting or diarrhea within the past 12 hours or unable to eat normally 
• A diagnosis of strep throat that has not been under antibiotic treatment for 24 hours 
• If you require fever-reducing medication or ongoing pain relief medication 

If you have any of these symptoms while at school, a parent/guardian will be contacted to pick you up.  

If you must have medication of any type given during school hours, including over-the-counter drugs, parents/guardians have the following choices:

• You may come to school and give the medication to your child at the appropriate time(s).  You may obtain a copy of a medication form from the school nurse or school office manager. Take the form to your child’s healthcare provider and have him/her complete the form by listing the medications(s) needed, dosage, and number of times per day the medication is to be administered.  Prescription and non-prescription medicines must be brought to school by a parent or guardian in the original labeled bottle which contains instructions on how and when the medication is to be given.  When you get a prescription filled, ask the pharmacist to make an extra container with the label on it for the school nurse.  A parent or guardian MUST provide a written request for the school nurse to give any medication.  STUDENTS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO HAVE POSSESSION OF ANY MEDICATION ON SCHOOL GROUNDS, ON THE BUS, OR IN CARS (except pre-approved emergency medications).  MEDICATIONS WILL NOT BE SENT HOME WITH STUDENTS.
• Over-the-counter drugs will be administered only as prescribed on the label or according to the PDR.  Over-the-counter drugs must be received in the original container.
• You may discuss with your healthcare provider an alternative schedule for administering medication (e.g., outside of school hours).
• All medication must be kept and administered through the school nurse’s office.  Students are not to carry any medications with them.

School personnel will administer any medication to students ONLY when they have received a medication form properly completed and signed by the prescriber.  Medication must be received in an appropriately labeled container. 

Student Health Services and Requirements

All parents will be notified at least at the beginning of the school year of the district’s policy on physical examinations and screening of students.  Parents will also be notified within a reasonable period of time after any substantive change in the policy.  (Policy JHC)

Emergency Medication

All student-occupied buildings are equipped with epinephrine pre-measured auto-injection devices that can be administered in the event of severe allergic reaction causing anaphylaxis.  Students who cannot receive epinephrine must have written parent documentation on file.

Physical Exams and Screenings

Periodic health screenings for vision, hearing, scoliosis, and head lice may be conducted under the direction of health services personnel and in accordance with administrative procedures.  In general, no “invasive physical examination” will be conducted without parent/guardian consent unless the health or safety of the student or others is in question or unless by court order.
 

The library is staffed by a certified librarian and student workers who are available to assist students during hours of operation.

Library Guidelines:

1. The library is open the following times: Monday 7:45am-3:00pm; Tuesday--Friday 7:15am-3:00pm.
2. Students are asked to sign in when they enter the library and to sign out when they leave.
3. STAR access is available to all students with privilege time and to any student who has obtained a pass.
4. Students may access online databases through Canvas.  All links, usernames, and passwords are located on the library Canvas page.
5. Students may check out up to five books at one time; checkouts are for three weeks.
6. Late fines of .05 cents per school day are assessed for overdue books. Students will be charged the purchase price of any lost or damaged books. If the lost book is found and returned during the same school year in which it was checked out, this charge will be refunded minus the late fee
7. Parking passes will not be issued to students with overdue books or library fines. Graduating seniors must clear their account to receive their diploma at graduation.
    

All students will have the opportunity to access Internet World Wide Web information resources through their classroom, library, or school computer lab and under the direct supervision of a teacher.  The Nixa Public Schools Internet Access Policy is available in the School Board Policy Manual (Policy-EHB-R).  The Nixa Public Schools Acceptable Use Policy is posted in computer labs, library, and other locations. No student will be given access to the district’s technology resources until the district receives a User Agreement signed by the student and the student’s parent(s), guardian(s), or person(s) standing in place of a parent.  Use of the district’s technology resources is a privilege, not a right.  A user’s privileges may be suspended pending an investigation concerning use of the district’s technology resources.  Any violation of the district policy, regulations, or procedures regarding technology usage may result in temporary, long-term, or permanent suspension of user privileges.  The district will monitor the on-line activities of minors and operate a technology protection measure on all computers with Internet access as required by law.  Internet access is provided through Missouri Research & Education Network (MOREnet) for the Nixa Public Schools. The district complies with MOREnet’s AUP which states: “All network use by MOREnet members, project participants, and those connected via MOREnet members or project participants shall be for, or in support of, research; education; local, state, or national government affairs; economic development, or public service.”  Personal laptop computers may not be connected to the district’s network nor attempted to be connected.  Students needing to use such equipment as part of a class or school assignment/project should bring the equipment to the principal’s office and leave it there until needed.  

The school provides hall lockers for the students’ use.  Students will be assigned a locker.  Lockers should be used for books, materials, and personal belongings.  Students are advised not to bring valuables or large amounts of money to school.  Lockers are the property of the school and are subject to periodic searches.  Students that tamper with or damage their locker will be subject to disciplinary action.

The school provides a breakfast, hot lunch, and a salad bar lunch line each day for students.  The price for the lunch is set annually by the Board of Education.  Student IDs will be required to purchase meals.  Free and reduced-price lunches are available for qualifying students.  Applications for these are available in the principal’s office or as a part of your online information update at the beginning of each school year.  Parents are encouraged to complete and submit free and reduced forms if they feel they may meet the criteria for qualification.  These forms are kept highly confidential.  Students may bring their own lunch and eat in the commons area.  Students are not allowed to leave campus, go to the parking lot, or have food delivered from any commercial establishment during the lunch period.  Parent deliveries from commercial establishments are not permitted; however, parents are welcome to dine with their student in the commons area.  Students who leave the campus or go to the parking lot will be considered truant.  There are three lunch shifts.  Students will be assigned a lunch shift based upon their sixth period teacher.
 

Students riding school buses should understand that they are under the jurisdiction of the school from the time they board the bus until they are deposited at school or at their designated stop.  All school rules and regulations are in effect when students ride the bus.  Any violation of rules, disruption, or failure to comply with any request of the bus driver will result in prompt disciplinary action as such misbehavior may affect the safety of others.  Students who participate in school-sponsored activities are expected to ride district-provided transportation to all such activities.  Students may be permitted to ride home with their parent, provided the parent, in person, informs the sponsor/coach of the activity of their intent to take their son/daughter home from the activity.  This must be done immediately before the activity or immediately following the activity.  Failure to comply with this policy may lead to disciplinary measures.

Nixa High School provides bus transportation to OTC (Springfield campus) for students enrolled in morning classes. The bus leaves each morning at approximately 7:10 a.m. Exceptions to riding the bus must be cleared through the HS administrators’ office prior to the students driving or being driven to OTC. Students who drive or are driven to OTC without prior permission from their parent and the principal’s office will receive disciplinary action. If parents opt to provide their student’s own transportation to and from OTC for the year, a consent and waiver form must be competed at the beginning of the school year. The parent will also need to provide the district with information regarding their auto insurance policy and a copy of the student’s insurance card

Students wishing to park their vehicle on the school parking lot for school each day will be charged a $30 parking fee.  The student will be assigned a parking space designated for their use.  The parking fee will be paid at the time of arena scheduling and tags will be issued to students at registration in August.  New students/drivers may purchase their parking space on an as-needed basis from the school resource officer.  Seniors will have first opportunity to get their spaces followed by Juniors, then Sophomores, then Freshmen. The school district reserves the right to relocate a student’s parking spot as necessary.

Students may not purchase a parking space until they receive their driver’s license.  Students that park in faculty, visitor, handicapped, or another student’s space are subject to disciplinary action.  Repeated violations could result in the loss of parking privileges for the remainder of the school year.  Cars parked on the school lot are subject to periodic search and may be entered when “reasonable suspicion” is determined.  Students who park may be subjected to periodic random drug tests and may be tested any time there is reasonable suspicion of illegal drugs, Board Policy JFCI-AP.

Students are expected to obey all traffic laws and drive in a safe manner.  Students are not permitted to go out to their cars in the parking lot during the school day without first obtaining permission from the principal.  Students caught on the parking lot without permission will be considered truant.  Skateboarding and rollerblading is prohibited on school parking lots and sidewalks.  Failure to obey these regulations will result in appropriate disciplinary action.
 

Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, yet they are cautioned that such activities be regarded as truly “extra.”  Any student who becomes so involved in “extras” sponsored and provided by the school that he/she is unable to fulfill his/her curricular responsibilities is abusing the intent of extracurricular.

Nixa High School is a member of the Missouri State High School Activities Association and, as such, requires students involved in extracurricular and interscholastic activities to meet and uphold certain eligibility standards.  A student in Grades 9-12 must be currently enrolled in and regularly attending courses that offer a minimum of 3 units of credit and must have earned a minimum of 3 units of credit the preceding semester of attendance; or a student must be enrolled in a full course at his or her level in a special education program for the handicapped approved by the Missouri State Department of Education which, though ungraded, enrolls pupils of equivalent age, and that student must have made standard progress for his or her level the preceding semester.

Students and parents must sign and return the citizenship policy before competing and abide by its standards.  Students that participate in any MSHSAA sanctioned activity will be subject to the Nixa High School random drug testing policy (Board Policy IGDJB).  This information will be disseminated to students prior to competition at the beginning of the school year. Students participating in a MSHSAA sanctioned activity and who are disciplined with ISS or OSS will not be eligible to compete for a specified period of time (up to 20% of competitions) as determined by the citizenship policy. Students that participate in athletics and any MSHSAA sanctioned activities will be required to pay a $45 fee to participate.  This fee will be good for the entire school year for all athletics/activities.  Students may inquire to the activities director for the possibility of the fee being waived due to financial hardship.  Students must pay the activity fee prior to competition.  Students that quit an activity will not receive a refund.

A student who is dually enrolled in college and high school classes, but who does not receive high school credit on his/her high school transcript for the college work, may have college hours earned during a regular semester count up to a maximum of 1 unit of credit toward determining high school eligibility as follows:  ½ unit of high school credit for a 3 credit hour class; 1 unit of high school credit for a 5 hour college credit class. (Copies of the current requirements are available in the principal’s office.)
 

Nixa Public Schools Guidelines for Non-Traditional Students who Desire Eligibility to Participate in MSHSAA Activities/Athletics

1. Non-traditional students will not have eligibility during their first semester of attendance at Nixa Public Schools, unless the homeschool curriculum used is approved by Nixa Public Schools and accepted immediately as credit on the high school transcript. The student will need to earn a minimum of 3.0 units of credit assigned to the transcript from the previous semester to earn immediate eligibility. The building principal or designee will review past classes, academic history, credits, logs, attendance, transcripts, etc. to determine “prior semester” credit earned to determine eligibility status. 
2. Non-traditional students must live within the Nixa Public School’s attendance boundaries. 
3. Non-traditional students must enroll, attend, and earn credit in two classes (1.0 credits) each semester. Pursuant MSHSAA By-Law 2.3.4.c, these two classes must be seat-time classes taken at the physical location of Nixa High School. 
4. Non-traditional students must take the equivalent of 3.0 units of credits. This would be a combination of the 1.0 unit of credit for Nixa Public Schools and courses taken outside of Nixa Public Schools. 
5. Non-traditional students must take remaining non-Nixa Public School courses from an accredited/approved curriculum. 
6. The building principal or designee will review current semester classes enrolled in to approve and validate “outside” courses/credits are sufficient in allowing the non- traditional student to meet the 80% rule, as defined by MSHSAA By-Law 2.3.4.c.
7. Non-traditional students will be provided clear confirmation of Nixa Public School’s closing date for each semester; the same timeline for completion of courses will also be in place for nontraditional students’ outside courses. 
8. Non-traditional students must meet the essential MSHSAA eligibility standards, including the citizenship standard, semesters rule, age rule, etc. as traditional students. 
9. Non-traditional students will be required to sign all MSHSAA and Nixa participation/permission forms, Nixa citizenship policy, and participate in the random drug testing for MSHSAA Athletics and Activities. 
10. If the non-traditional student participates in Band, Orchestra, or Choir, they must be enrolled in the associated class, in order to participate in music activities.
11. All non-traditional students will be held to the same policy and standards as traditional students set forth by the Nixa Public School student and athletic/activity handbooks. 
12. Once enrolled, non-traditional students must enroll in all sequential semesters to maintain eligibility. 
13. It should be noted some activity programs offered by Nixa Public Schools are cut sports/activities with a tryout process. Non-traditional students will have every opportunity as traditional students to make teams/groups in cut sports/activities through the try-out process, but no student is guaranteed a spot for any activity or any athletic team.

Nixa maintains a number of clubs and organizations for interested students.  A current listing with descriptions is available in the counselors’, principal’s, or activities director’s offices as well as the high school’s website.
 

According to Nixa School Board Policy, high school students are permitted to have three (3) dances during the year. The Student Council, in conjunction with the administration, shall determine guidelines for these dances. Students not in attendance for four periods (excluding STAR) the day of the dance (or, in case of a Saturday dance, the Friday before) will not be permitted to participate in any school-sponsored activity unless permission is obtained from the principal. Moreover, per the directives laid out by the Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education (DESE), each student must strive for a 90% attendance rate, aligning with federal guidelines. Furthermore, DESE expects that 90% of the student body within every school district will achieve this attendance benchmark, also known as the 90/90 rule. Any student who plans to attend a dance at NHS must be in attendance for at least 90% of the school days the semester of the dance in order to attend. If a student has not been in attendance for 90% of the current semester, they may appeal their dance restriction due to attendance to their grade level principal and provide the proper documentation regarding their absences at least one week before the end of ticket sales for the dance. Proper documentation includes: doctor's notes or letters verifying illness, injury, or medical treatment, medical appointment records, ongoing treatment or therapy documentation, legal documents, documentation of family emergencies, etc. Documentation regarding vacations or travel will not be accepted.

Per the ISS and OSS policy, students who are suspended, ISS, or OSS (out-of-school suspension) will not be allowed to participate in or attend any school function during their suspension. Additionally, if a student receives OSS during the semester of a dance, they will not be permitted to attend the next upcoming Nixa High School dance that semester or next, depending on when the violation occurs.

If a student attends a dance under the influence and/or brings drugs, alcohol, over-the-counter drugs, and/or drug-related paraphernalia, the student will not be able to attend any Nixa High School dances besides their Senior Prom.       

The Student Code of Conduct is designed to foster student responsibility, respect for others, and to provide for the orderly operation of district schools. No code can be expected to list each and every offense that may result in disciplinary action; however, it is the purpose of this code to list certain offenses which, if committed by a student, will result in the imposition of a certain disciplinary action. Any conduct not included herein, any aggravated circumstance of any offense, or any action involving a combination of offenses may result in disciplinary consequences that extend beyond this code of conduct as determined by the principal, superintendent and/or Board of Education. In extraordinary circumstances where the minimum consequence is judged by the superintendent or designee to be manifestly unfair or not in the interest of the district, the superintendent or designee may reduce the consequences listed in this policy, as allowed by law. This code includes, but is not necessarily limited to, acts of students on district property, including playgrounds, parking lots and district transportation, or at a district activity, whether on or off district property. The district may also discipline students for off-campus conduct that negatively impacts the educational environment, to the extent allowed by law.

Reporting to Law Enforcement

It is the policy of Nixa Public Schools to report all crimes occurring on district property to law enforcement including, but not limited to, the crimes the district is required to report in accordance with law. A list of crimes the district is required to report is included in policy JGF. 

The principal shall also notify the appropriate law enforcement agency and superintendent if a student is discovered to possess a controlled substance or weapon in violation of the district's policy. 

In addition, the superintendent or designee shall notify the appropriate division of the juvenile or family court upon suspension for more than ten days or expulsion of any student who the district is aware is under the jurisdiction of the court.

Documentation in Student’s Discipline Record

The principal, designee or other administrators or school staff will maintain all discipline records as deemed necessary for the orderly operation of the schools and in accordance with law and policy JGF.
 

After-School Detention (ASD)

ASD will be held every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 2:40 p.m. until 3:30 p.m.  The building principal or assistant principal will assign ASD.  Following are some of the most common violations in which ASD will be assigned:

    Violation          1st Offense         2nd Offense

    4th tardy           1 Day ASD            5th tardy-2 ASD’s
    Truancy            2 ASD’s                 Suspension

Each student is responsible for having his/her own work to do the entire ASD period.  Students will be required to be on time! Students who are absent the day of their assigned ASD will be re-assigned the next scheduled ASD.  Students that miss one day of ASD will be assigned an additional ASD and required to make up the missed ASD.  Any misconduct by the student will be grounds for automatic dismissal from ASD and an additional two days of assigned ASD.  A student who receives a second ASD violation will receive a minimum three-day In-School-Suspension.   A student receiving an ASD will lose their Gold Card privileges for one week.

In-School Suspension (ISS)

Students who are assigned ISS for any disciplinary problem will be allowed to make up work for full credit when arrangements are made by the student to obtain assignments from his/her teachers at the time of the suspension.  Specific procedures/rules for ISS are given to the student at the time of the suspension.  Students may not attend school-sponsored activities while serving ISS.  Students receiving ISS will lose their Gold Card privileges for two weeks.

Out-of-School Suspension (OSS)

A student who is suspended out of school for a short-term suspension (1-10 days) may complete work missed for full-credit providing all work is complete within two school days of returning from the OSS. Students serving a long-term suspension (11-180 days) may complete course work for credit assigned through the school’s online course platform and are subject to due dates established by school staff. During the assigned OSS time, students are not allowed on any school campuses and may not attend/participate in any school-sponsored activities.  A student receiving OSS will lose their Gold Card privileges for three weeks.
 

All students who are suspended or expelled, regardless of the reason, are prohibited from participating in or attending any district-sponsored activity, or being on or near district property or the location of any district activity for any reason, unless permission is granted by the superintendent or designee. In addition, the district may prohibit students from participating in activities or restrict a student's access to district property as a disciplinary consequence even if a student is not suspended or expelled from school, if appropriate. 

In accordance with law, any student who is suspended for any offenses listed in § 160.261, RSMo., or any act of violence or drug-related activity defined by policy JGF as a serious violation of school discipline shall not be allowed to be within 1,000 feet of any district property or any activity of the district, regardless of whether the activity takes place on district property, unless one of the following conditions exist:

1. The student is under the direct supervision of the student's parent, legal guardian, custodian or another adult designated in advance, in writing, to the student's principal by the student's parent, legal guardian or custodian, and the superintendent or designee has authorized the student to be on district property.
2. The student is enrolled in and attending an alternative school that is located within 1,000 feet of a public school in the district.
3. The student resides within 1,000 feet of a public school in the district and is on the property of his or her residence.

If a student violates the prohibitions in this section, he or she may be suspended or expelled in accordance with the offense, "Failure to Meet Conditions of Suspension, Expulsion or Other Disciplinary Consequences," listed below.
 

The following are descriptions of prohibited conduct as well as potential consequences for violations.  In addition to the consequences specified here, school officials will notify law enforcement and document violations in the student’s discipline file pursuant to law and Board policy.

• Academic Dishonesty (Cheating on tests, assignments, projects or similar activities; plagiarism; claiming credit for another person's work, including the use of artificial intelligence; fabrication of facts, sources or other supporting material; unauthorized collaboration; facilitating academic dishonesty; having a PED out during an assessment; and other misconduct related to academics)

1. First Offense: No credit for the work, grade reduction, replacement assignment and/or disciplinary action from administration.
2. Subsequent Offense:  No credit for the work, grade reduction, course failure, removal from extracurricular activities and/or disciplinary action from administration.

• Arson (Starting or attempting to start a fire or causing or attempting to cause an explosion.)
  1. First Offense: Detention, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Restitution if appropriate.
  2. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.  Restitution if appropriate.

• Assault
  • Using physical force, such as hitting, striking or pushing, to cause or attempt to cause physical injury; placing another person in apprehension of immediate physical injury; recklessly engaging in conduct that creates a grave risk of death or serious physical injury; causing physical contact with another person knowing the other person will regard the contact as offensive or provocative; or any other act that constitutes criminal assault in the third degree.
  1. First Offense: Principal/student conference, detention, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
  2. Subsequent Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
  • Knowingly causing or attempting to cause serious bodily injury or death to another person, recklessly causing serious bodily injury to another person, or any other act that constitutes assault in the first or second degree.
  1. First Offense: 10-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.
  2. Subsequent Offense: Expulsion

• Automobile/Vehicle Misuse (Uncourteous or unsafe driving on or around school property, unregistered parking, failure to move vehicle at the request of school officials, failure to follow directions given by school officials, or failure to follow established rules for parking or driving on school property.)
  1. First Offense: Suspension or revocation of parking privileges, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.
  2. Second Offense: Revocation of parking privileges, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days of out-of-school suspension.

• Bullying and Cyberbullying (See Board Policy JFCF) Update to align with new policy (Intimidation or harassment of a student or multiple students perpetuated by individuals or groups. Bullying includes, but is not limited to: physical actions, including violence, gestures, theft, or damaging property; oral or written taunts, including name-calling, put-downs, extortion, or threats; threats of retaliation for reporting such acts; sending or posting harmful or cruel text or images using the Internet or other digital communication devices; sending or posting materials that threaten or raise concerns about violence against others, suicide or self-harm. Students will not be disciplined for speech in situations where the speech is protected by law.
  1. First Offense: Detention, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

• Bus or Transportation Misconduct (see Board Policy JFCC) (Any offense committed by a student on transportation provided by or through the district shall be punished in the same manner as if the offense had been committed at the student's assigned school. In addition, transportation privileges may be suspended or revoked.)

• Dishonesty (Any act of lying, whether verbal or written, including forgery.)
  1. First Offense: Nullification of forged document. Principal/student conference, detention, or in-school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: Nullification of forged document. Detention, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

• Disrespectful or Disruptive Conduct or Speech (See Board Policy AC if illegal harassment or discrimination is involved) (Verbal, written, pictorial or symbolic language or gesture directed at any person and that is rude, vulgar, defiant, or considered inappropriate in educational settings or that materially and substantially disrupts classroom work, school activities, or school functions.  Students will not be disciplined for speech in situations where it is protected by law.)
  1. First Offense: Principal/Student conference, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

• Drugs/Alcohol (See Board Policies JFCH and JHCD) Possession, sale, solicitation, distribution, or intent to sell, purchase, or distribute any over-the-counter drug, authorized prescription drug, herbal preparation, or imitation drug or herbal preparation.
  1. First Offense: In-school suspension or 1-180 days out-of school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.
  • Possession of or attendance while under the influence of or soon after consuming any unauthorized prescription drug, alcohol, narcotic substance, unauthorized inhalants, counterfeit drugs, imitation controlled substances, or drug-related paraphernalia, (including but not limited to dab pens, dab pen chargers, dab pen pods/cartridges, etc.) including controlled substances including THC and illegal drugs defined as substances identified under schedules I, II, III, IV, or V in Section 202(c) of the Controlled Substances Act.
  1. First Offense: 10-180 days out-of-school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: 11-180 days out-of school suspension or expulsion.
  • Sale, solicitation, intent to sell, purchase or distribution of any prescription drug, alcohol, narcotic substance, unauthorized inhalants, counterfeit drugs, imitation controlled substances, or drug-related paraphernalia (including but not limited to dab pens, dab pen chargers, dab pen pods/cartridges, etc.), including controlled substances and illegal drugs defined as substances identified under schedules I, II, III, IV, or V in Section 202(c) of the Controlled Substances Act.
  1. First Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.
  2. Subsequent Offense: 11-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

• Extortion (Threatening or intimidating any person for the purpose of obtaining money or anything of value) 
  1. First Offense: Principal/Student conference, detention, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

• Failure to Care for or Return District Property (Loss of, failure to return, or damage to district property including, but not limited to, books, computers, calculators, uniforms, and sporting and instructional equipment.
  1. First Offense: Restitution. Principal/Student conference, detention, or in-school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: Restitution. Detention or in-school suspension.

• Failure to Meet Conditions of Suspension, Expulsion or Other Disciplinary Consequences (Violating the conditions of a suspension, expulsion or other disciplinary consequence including, but not limited to, participating in or attending any district-sponsored activity or being on or near district property or the location where a district activity is held. See the section of this regulation titled, "Conditions of Suspension, Expulsion and Other Disciplinary Consequences." As required by law, when the district considers suspending a student for an additional period of time or expelling a student for being on or within 1,000 feet of district property during a suspension, consideration shall be given to whether the student poses a threat to the safety of any child or school employee and whether the student's presence is disruptive to the educational process or undermines the effectiveness of the district's discipline policy.
  1. First Offense: Verbal warning, detention, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Report to law enforcement for trespassing if expelled.
  2. Subsequent Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Report to law enforcement for trespassing if expelled.

• False Alarms (Tampering with emergency equipment, setting off false alarms, making false reports communicating a threat or false report for the purpose of frightening, disturbing, disrupting or causing the evacuation or closure of school property.)
  1. First Offense: Restitution. Detention, principal/student conference, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
  2. Subsequent Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

• Fighting (see also assault) (Mutual combat in which both parties have contributed to the conflict either verbally or by physical action.)
  1. First Offense: Principal/Student conference, detention,  in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

• Gambling (Betting on an uncertain outcome, regardless of stakes; engaging  in any game of chance or activity in which something of real or symbolic  value may be won or lost.  Gambling includes, but is not limited to, betting on outcomes of activities, assignments, contests and games.)
  1. First offense: Principal/Student conference, loss of privileges, detention, or in-school-suspension.
  2. Subsequent offense: Principal/Student conference, loss of privileges, detention, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

• Harassment, including Sexual Harassment (see Board policy AC) 
  • Use of material of a sexual nature or unwelcome verbal, written or symbolic language based on gender, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Examples of illegal harassment include, but are not limited to, racial jokes or comments; requests for sexual favors and other unwelcome sexual advances; graffiti; name calling; or threatening, intimidating or hostile acts based on a protected characteristic.
    1. First Offense: Principal/Student conference, detention, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
    2. Subsequent Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of- school suspension, or expulsion 
  • Unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature or that is based on gender, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Examples include, but are not limited to, touching or fondling of the genital areas, breasts or undergarments, regardless of whether the touching occurred through or under clothing; or pushing or fighting based on protected characteristics.
    1. First Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
    2. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

• Hazing (See Board Policy JFCF) (Any activity that a reasonable person believes would negatively impact the mental or physical health or safety of a student or put the student in a ridiculous, humiliating, stressful, or disconcerting position for the purposes of initiation, affiliation, admission, membership or maintenance of membership in any group, class, organization, club, or athletic team, including, but not limited to, a grade level, student organization, or school-sponsored activity.  Hazing may occur even when all students involved are willing participants.)
  1. First Offense: In-school suspension or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension.
  2. Second Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

• Incendiary devices or Fireworks (Possessing, displaying or using matches, lighters, or other devices used to start fires unless required as part of an educational exercise and supervised by district staff; possessing or using fireworks.)
  1. First Offense: Confiscation. Warning, principal/student conference, detention, or in-school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: Confiscation. Principal/student conference, detention, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

• Nuisance Items (Possession or use of items such as toys, games, and portable media players and/or speakers that are not authorized for educational purposes.)
  1. First Offense: Confiscation. Warning, principal/student conference, detention, or in-school suspension. 
  2. Subsequent Offense: Confiscation. Principal/Student conference, detention, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

• Public Display of Affection (Physical contact that is inappropriate for the school setting including, but not limited to, kissing, cuddling and embracing)
  1. First Offense: Principal/Student conference, detention, or in-school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: Detention, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

• Sexting and/or Possession of Sexually Explicit, Vulgar or Violent Material (Students may not possess or display, electronically or otherwise, sexually explicit, vulgar or violent material including, but not limited to, pornography or depictions of nudity, violence or explicit death or injury. This prohibition does not apply to curricular material that has been approved by district staff for its educational value. Students will not be disciplined for speech in situations where it is protected by law.)
  1. First Offense: Confiscation. Principal/Student conference, detention, or in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion
  2. Subsequent Offense: Confiscation. Detention, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

• Sexual Activity (Acts of sex or simulated acts of sex including, but not limited to, groping, fondling, intercourse or oral or manual stimulation.)
  1. First Offense: Principal/student conference, detention, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out- of school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: Detention, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of school suspension, or expulsion.

• Technology Misconduct (see Board policies EHB and KKB and procedure EHB-AP)
  • Attempting, regardless of success, to: gain unauthorized access to a technology system or information; use district technology to connect to other systems in evasion of the physical limitations of the remote system; copy district files without authorization; interfere with the ability of others to utilize district technology; secure a higher level of privilege without authorization; introduce computer viruses, hacking tools, or other disruptive/destructive programs onto or using district technology; or evade or disable a filtering/blocking device.
    1. First Offense: Restitution. Principal/Student conference, loss of user privileges, detention, or in-school suspension.
    2. Subsequent Offense: Restitution. Loss of user privileges, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
  • Using, displaying or turning on pagers, phones, personal digital assistants, personal laptops or any other personal electronic devices during the time spent in the classroom during periods 1-8, unless the use is part of the instructional program, required by a district-sponsored class or activity, or otherwise permitted by the building principal.
    1. First Offense: Confiscation, principal/student conference, detention, or in-school suspension.
    2. Subsequent Offense: Confiscation, principal/student conference, detention, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
  • Violations, other than those listed in (1) or (2) above, of Board policy EHB, procedure EHBAP or any policy or procedure regulating student use of personal electronic devices.
    1. First Offense: Restitution. Principal/Student conference, detention, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension.
    2. Subsequent Offense: Restitution. Loss of user privileges, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
  • Use of audio or visual recording equipment in violation of Board policy KKB.
    1. First Offense: Confiscation. Principal/Student conference, detention, or in-school suspension.
    2. Subsequent Offense: Confiscation. Principal/Student conference, detention, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

• Theft (Theft, attempted theft, or willful possession of stolen property)
  1. First Offense: Return of or restitution for property. Principal/student conference, detention, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: Return of or restitution for property. 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

• Threats or Verbal Assault (Verbal, written, pictorial, or symbolic language or gestures that create a reasonable fear of physical injury or property damage.)
  1. First Offense: Principal/student conference, detention, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
  2. Subsequent Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

• Tobacco
  • Possession of any tobacco products, electronic cigarettes, vape paraphernalia (including but not limited to vapes, vape chargers, vape pods/cartridges, etc.), or other nicotine-delivery products on district property, district transportation or at any district activity. Nicotine patches or other medications used in a tobacco cessation program (including tobacco imitation caffeine pouches) may only be possessed in accordance with district policy JHCD.
    1. First Offense: Confiscation of tobacco product. Principal/Student conference, detention, or in-school suspension.
    2. Subsequent Offense: Confiscation of tobacco product. Detention, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.
  • Use of any tobacco products, electronic cigarettes, vapes, or other nicotine-delivery products on district property, district transportation or at any district activity. Nicotine patches or other medications used in a tobacco cessation program (including tobacco imitation caffeine pouches) may only be possessed in accordance with district policy JHCD.
    1. First Offense: Confiscation of tobacco product. Principal/Student conference, detention, in-school suspension, or 1-3 days out-of-school suspension.
    2. Subsequent Offense: Confiscation of tobacco product. In-school suspension or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

• Truancy (See Board Policy JEDA) (Absence from school without the knowledge and consent of parents/guardian and the school administration; excessive non-justifiable absences, even with the consent of parents/guardians-see pages 18-19)
  1. First Offense: Principal/student conference, detention, or 1-3 days in-school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: Detention or 1-10 days in-school suspension, and removal from extracurricular activities.

• Unauthorized Entry (Entering or assisting any other person to enter a district facility, office, locker, or other area that is locked or not open to the general public; entering or assisting any other person to enter a district facility through an unauthorized entrance; assisting unauthorized persons to enter a district facility through any entrance.)
  1. First Offense: Principal/student conference, detention, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension.
  2. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

• Vandalism (See Board Policy ECA) (Willful damage or the attempt to cause damage to real or personal property belonging to the school, staff, or students.)
  1. First Offense: Restitution. Principal/student conference, detention, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
  2. Subsequent Offense: Restitution. In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

• Weapons (See Board Policy JFCJ) 
  •  Possession or use of any weapon as defined in Board policy, other than those defined in 18 U.S.C. § 921, 18 U.S.C. § 930(g)(2) or § 571.010, RSMo.
    1. First Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
    2. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.
  • Possession or use of a firearm as defined in 18 U.S.C. § 921 or any instrument or device defined in § 571.010, RSMo., or any instrument or device defined as a dangerous weapon in 18 U.S.C. § 930(g)(2).
    1. First Offense: One calendar year suspension or expulsion, unless modified by the Board upon recommendation of the superintendent.
    2. Subsequent Offense: Expulsion.
  • Possession or use of ammunition or a component of a weapon.
    1. First Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
    2. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.
  • Possession or use of a knife with a blade under 4 inches (ex. Pocket knife, x-acto knife, leathermen, box cutter, etc.)
    1. First Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
    2. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.
  •  Possession or use of Self Defense Spray (mace, pepper spray, etc.)
    1. First Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
    2. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

Alcohol Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Expulsion

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Automobile Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - Conference

Maximum Consequence - After School Detention (ASD)/Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Bus Violation*

*See bus discipline code

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Defiance of Authority Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - Conference

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Suspended Parking

Maximum Consequence - Suspended Parking

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Destruction of Property Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - 9th Hour

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Disorderly Conduct Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - Conference

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - After School Suspension (ASD)

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Drug Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Expulsion

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Fighting Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Expulsion

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Out of Assigned Area of Campus Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - ASD

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Sexual Harassment Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - Conference

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - ASD

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Profanity Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - ASD

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Tardiness

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - ASD for 4th and 5th tardy

Maximum Consequence - Suspension for 6th tardy and beyond

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - ASD for 4th and 5th tardy

Maximum Consequence - Suspension for 6th tardy and beyond

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Theft Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - ASD

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Tobacco Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Truancy Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - ASD

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Verbal Abuse/Assault

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - ASD

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - ASD

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Weapons Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - Suspension

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Expulsion

Maximum Consequence - Expulsion

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Internet Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - Loss of internet usage for 90 days

Maximum Consequence - Loss of internet use and suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - Loss of internet use for one school year

Maximum Consequence - Loss of internet use and suspension

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Loitering Violation

1st Offense 

Minimum Consequence - ASD

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

Repeated Offense

Minimum Consequence - ASD

Maximum Consequence - Suspension

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School Crimestoppers Hotline 895-2365
You Can Make A Difference!
Callers Remain Anonymous
 

electIn order to graduate from Nixa High School, students must meet all of Nixa Public Schools’ and the Missouri State Board of Education’s requirements.  In addition to earning the required 24 credits and passing specific required classes, graduates must pass both the U.S. and Missouri Constitution tests.

Nixa High School Diploma

Communication Arts - 4 Credits

Required Courses - English I, English II, English III, and 4th  credit must be above English III

Mathematics - 3 Credits

Science - 3 Credits

Required Courses -  Physical Science, Biology I, and one Science elective

Social Studies - 3 Credits

Required Courses - American History, World History, and American Government

Fine Art - 1 Credit

Practical Art - 1 Credit

Physical Education - 1 Credit

Course Options - Walking Fitness, Physical Fitness, or Strength and Conditioning (A full year of JROTC Let I or Let II may substitute for a ½ credit of Physical Ed.)

Health - 0.5 Credit

Personal Finance - 0.5 Credit

Electives - 7 Credits

Total Required - 24 Credits

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State of Missouri Colleges and Universities Required Credits

Communication Arts - 4 Credits

Required Courses - English I, English II, English III, and 4th  credit must be above English III

Mathematics - 4 Credits

Science - 3 Credits

Required Courses -  Physical Science, Biology I, and one Science elective

Social Studies - 3 Credits

Required Courses - American History, World History, and American Government

Fine Art - 1 Credit

Practical Art - 1 Credit

Physical Education - 1 Credit

Course Options - Walking Fitness, Physical Fitness, or Strength and Conditioning (A full year of JROTC Let I or Let II may substitute for a ½ credit of Physical Ed.)

Health - 0.5 Credit

Personal Finance - 0.5 Credit

Electives - 6 Credits

Specified Core Electives - 2 Credits

Total Required - 24 Credits

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Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diploma

Communication Arts - 4 Credits

Required Courses - English I, English II, English III, and 4th  credit must be above English III

Mathematics - 3 Credits

Science - 3 Credits

Required Courses -  Physical Science, Biology I, and one Science elective

Social Studies - 3 Credits

Required Courses - American History, World History, and American Government

Fine Art - 1 Credit

Practical Art - 1 Credit

Physical Education - 1 Credit

Course Options - Walking Fitness, Physical Fitness, or Strength and Conditioning (A full year of JROTC Let I or Let II may substitute for a ½ credit of Physical Ed.)

Health - 0.5 Credit

Personal Finance - 0.5 Credit

Electives - 7 Credits

Specified Course Electives 

2 World Languages

Total Required - 24 Credits

Additional Requirements

Score 3 or higher on AP Seminar and Research, Score 3 or higher on 4 other AP exams

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Honors Diploma

Communication Arts - 4 Credits

Required Courses - English I, English II, English III, and 4th  credit must be above English III

Mathematics - 4 Credits

Science - 3 Credits

Required Courses -  Physical Science, Biology I, and one Science elective

Social Studies - 3 Credits

Required Courses - American History, World History, and American Government

Fine Art - 1 Credit

Practical Art - 1 Credit

Physical Education - 1 Credit

Course Options - Walking Fitness, Physical Fitness, or Strength and Conditioning (A full year of JROTC Let I or Let II may substitute for a ½ credit of Physical Ed.)

Health - 0.5 Credit

Personal Finance - 0.5 Credit

Electives - 8 Credits

Specified Course Electives 

AP Research and AP Seminar

Total Required - 28 Credits

Additional Requirements

3.0 GPA, 25 ACT*, 6 AP and/or Honors courses

*ACT requirement must be met on or before the December test date of their senior year.

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CTE Diploma

Communication Arts - 4 Credits

Required Courses - English I, English II, English III, and 4th  credit must be above English III

Mathematics - 4 Credits

Science - 3 Credits

Required Courses -  Physical Science, Biology I, and one Science elective

Social Studies - 3 Credits

Required Courses - American History, World History, and American Government

Fine Art - 1 Credit

Practical Art - 1 Credit

Physical Education - 1 Credit

Course Options - Walking Fitness, Physical Fitness, or Strength and Conditioning (A full year of JROTC Let I or Let II may substitute for a ½ credit of Physical Ed.)

Health - 0.5 Credit

Personal Finance - 0.5 Credit

Electives - 8 Credits

3 credits in the same CTE strand

Total Required - 24 Credits

Additional Requirements

3.0 GPA, WorkKeys score of Silver or higher or IRC in CTE strand

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Specific requirements are as follows:

Graduation
Seniors must have completed ALL graduation requirements to participate in the graduation ceremony and related activities (including state/district testing requirements).  All correspondence courses must be completed three weeks prior to graduation.

Classification by Credits
Students must have earned the following credits for grade level classification by the beginning of each school year.  Credits will be reviewed at the end of the semester for students who had been previously reclassified to determine if their grade level should change.  Activities that require a student to be a junior or senior will not be open to students not classified as such.

Fine Arts include: visual arts, vocal music, instrumental music, and theatre

Practical Arts include: business, FACS, PLTW, agriculture, industrial technology, JROTC, help desk, and drivers education
*See the course description book for which specific classes are in each category

Sophomore—6 credits      Junior—12 credits        Senior—17 credits