Click Here to Download a PDF file
(with ALL sections included)
of the Bouse Elementary School Handbook

Rights & Responsibilities (Policy J-2011)

All students are entitled to enjoy the basic rights of citizenship that are recognized and protected by laws of this country and state for persons of their age and maturity. Each student is obligated to respect the rights of classmates, teachers and other school personnel. District schools shall foster a climate of mutual respect for the rights of others. Such environment will enhance both the educational purpose for which the District exists and the educational program designed to achieve that purpose.

All District personnel shall recognize and respect the rights of students, just as all students shall exercise their rights responsibly, with due regard for the equal rights of others and in compliance with the rules and regulations established for the orderly conduct of the educational mission of the District. Students who violate the rights of others or who violate rules and regulations of the District or of their school are subject to appropriate disciplinary measures designed to correct their misconduct and to promote adherence by them and by other students to the responsibilities of citizens in the school community.

The following basic guidelines of rights and responsibilities shall not be construed to be all-inclusive, nor shall it in any way diminish the legal authority of school officials and the Governing Board to deal with disruptive students.

Rights:

Students have the right to a meaningful education that will be of value to them for the rest of their lives.
Students have the right to a meaningful curriculum and the right to voice their opinions, through representatives of the student government, in the development of such curriculum.
Students have the right to physical safety, safe buildings and sanitary facilities.
Students have the right to consultation with teachers, counselors, administrators and anyone else connected with the school if they so desire without fear of reprisal.
Students have the right to free elections of their peers in student government, and all students have the right to seek and hold office in accordance with the provisions of the student government constitution and in keeping with the extracurricular guidelines of the district.
Students have the right to be made aware of administrative and/or faculty committee decisions and to be aware of the policies set forth by the Governing Board and school.
Legal guardians or authorized representatives have the right to see the personal files, cumulative folders or transcripts of their children who are under the age of 18 years. School authorities may determine the time and manner of presentation of this information.
Students’ academic performance shall be the prime criterion for academic grades; however, noncompliance with school rules and regulations may affect grades (e.g., unexcused absences).
Students shall not be subjected to unreasonable or excessive punishment.
Students have the right to be involved in school activities, provided they meet the reasonable qualifications of sponsoring organizations, state organizations and school regulations.

Responsibilities:

Students have the responsibility to respect the rights of all persons involved in the educational process and to exercise the highest degree of self-discipline in observing and adhering to school rules and regulations.
Students have the responsibility to take maximum advantage of the educational opportunities available and seek to achieve a meaningful education.
All members of the school community, including students, parents and school staff members have the responsibility to promote regular attendance at school.
Students have the responsibility to protect school property, equipment, books and other materials issued to or used by them in the instructional process. Students will be held financially responsible for any loss or intentional damage caused to school property.
Students have the responsibility to complete all course assignments to the best of their ability and to complete make-up work after an absence.
Students have the responsibility to help maintain the cleanliness and safety of the school buildings and property.
Students have the responsibility to present themselves in class at the prescribed time and with the necessary materials.