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~STUDENT GOVERNMENT~

Student leadership carries with it special responsibilities, privileges, and exemplary patterns of behavior. Student leaders shall not violate any law or school rule or conduct themselves in a manner detrimental to their image as school leaders. All Leadership students are expected to represent West Albany High School in a positive manner and to work effectively with students, faculty, and administration. Student Leaders follow the West Albany High School Associated Student Body Constitution.

STUDENT BODY OFFICERS
President: David Reece
1st Vice President: Katie Ann Fitzpatrick
2nd Vice President: Christina Hagerty
Secretary: Caitlin Muller
Treasurer: Ryan Boone
Site Council Reps: Kimi Killen, Allison Cook
School Board Rep: Derek Davis
Historian: Mallory Phelan

CLASS OFFICERS

Senior: President: Andrew Struthers Vice President: Lisa Sweet Secretary: Stephanie Deever Treasurer: Kaila Lemerande	Junior: President: Spencer Reid Vice President: Jen Collins Secretary : Abby Olson Treasurer : Justin Kasten
Sophomore: President : Tina Armstead Vice President : Danielle Robertson Secretary : Brittney Foss Treasurer : Christina Nguyen	Freshman: President: TBA Vice President: TBA Secretary: TBA Treasurer : TBA

~EMERGENCY PROCEDURES~

EARTHQUAKE PROCEDURES
If you are in the school building when an earthquake occurs, take the following precautions:
1. Protect yourself from falling objects by getting under a desk or table, preferably away from windows and bookshelves. If you are in the hallway, crouch down close to a wall and cover your head with your arms.
2. Once the shaking stops, evacuate the building using the same route as during a fire drill. Once outside, move well away from the building and stay with your supervisor and class.

FIRE DRILL
Fire drills are an important part of our safety program. When the fire alarm sounds, everyone is to leave the building promptly and quietly in accordance with the directions posted in each room. Once outside, move well away from the building and stay with your class. Remain outside until the all-clear tone sounds. Then return directly to your classroom. Tampering with an alarm box or setting off a false alarm is a violation of Oregon law and school policy. The consequences of doing so are immediate suspension from school and referral to the Albany Fire Marshal.

INCLEMENT WEATHER PROCEDURES
School is closed, released early, or delayed in opening because of inclement weather and highway conditions. When this occurs, the district will notify staff, students and parents through the local radio (KGAL-1580 AM, KRKT-990 AM/99.9 FM) and television stations usually by 7:00 a.m. It is best not to call the office or radio stations asking for this information. They need to keep their lines free for emergencies. If no announcement is made, school is open and the buses will run their usual routes.

STUDENT SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES
Students are responsible for helping to maintain a safe school environment. If you become aware of unsafe behavior or situations at school, it is your responsibility to tell a staff member. We are aware that students often don’t want to “tell” on their friends. However, that idea does not apply when a serious safety situation exists. For example, if you have information about weapons at school, conflict among students, self-destructive talk or behavior, drug dealing or students whose judgment is impaired by drugs or alcohol, your responsibility is to tell a staff member. The information you give is confidential.

VIOLENT EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
When the safety of our students and staff may be threatened by a potential act of aggression or violence, the following procedures will be followed:
1. If the emergency occurs while students are in class, you will be instructed, via the intercom system, to remain in the classroom until further notice. The teacher will quickly bring students who may be in the hallway into their room, lock the door, close the windows, pull the shades, take roll, and wait for further instruction.
2. If the emergency occurs while students are out of class (before school, break, lunch, etc.):
a) An emergency alarm tone will sound.
b) When the alarm is heard, students are to go immediately and directly to their next class (do not go to your locker first). Remain there until further notice.
c) If their next class room is not accessible, students are to go to the gym or the cafeteria.

~ACADEMICS~

The curriculum at West Albany includes the total educational program under the direction of the School District. The educational program includes classroom instruction, laboratory experience, research, reading enrichment, field trips, individual project work, and organized student activities. West Albany’s goal is to provide curriculum which meets the varied needs, abilities and interests of all high school students in the community. The Curriculum Catalog is available at West Albany through the Counseling Center.

ACADEMIC HONESTY
West Albany owes its students an environment that teaches and supports honesty and integrity. Academic dishonesty harms the student who is dishonest resulting in a false evaluation of his or her performance and the mastery of the subject matter. Second, it harms other students by lowering the value of their honest achievement. Most importantly, it violates the basic integrity of a high school diploma, which certifies to the general public that the student has in fact, mastered the knowledge and skills necessary to complete graduation requirements. For these reasons, cheating and plagiarism are unacceptable.

ACADEMIC LETTER
In order to receive a West Albany Academic Letter, a student must earn a 3.50 GPA for four or more semesters.

ACCESS/RELEASE OF EDUCATION RECORDS
By law, both parents, whether married, separated or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is under 18 unless the district is provided evidence that there is a court order, state statute or legally binding document relating to such matters as divorce, separation or custody that specifically revokes these rights.

ACHIEVEMENT POLICY
Our courses of study are designed to meet a broad range of individual educational needs. With the advice of counselors, teachers and parents, students choose courses at an appropriate level of difficulty, providing both challenge and the expectation of academic success. A primary factor in achieving that success is the level of student effort.

Students who show a lack of academic achievement will receive help and advice from teachers, counselors and others, and will be given ample opportunity to improve. Continued lack of progress may result in disciplinary action, which may include suspension from school, in accordance with Oregon School Law 339.250.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT TESTING
College credit by examination while still in high school may be earned by enrolling in one or more of the Advanced Placement courses, and taking the Advanced Placement Examination(s). AP classes offered at West are: AP U.S. History, AP European History, AP English, AP Biology, AP Calculus, AP Problematics & Statistics, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, Portfolio Art, and AP Economics. Test dates are usually held in May and will be announced soon after the school year begins. Students must pay a fee in order to take the test.

COLLEGE NOW PROGRAMS/DUAL-ENROLLMENT
High School students in Albany may enroll in some high school courses that are connected to the higher education system through Linn Benton Community College or Oregon State University. These courses offer college credit for students who meet certain requirements. Students should check with their teachers or counselors for a list of high school courses that offer college credit. Additional district information is available from the district Alternative Learning Coordinator.

COUNSELING
Counselors help students achieve maximum education benefits, develop self-understanding, and increase their ability to plan their future. All students are encouraged to use the counseling services throughout their high school careers. West Albany High School believes that the work of the counselor is a supplement to the daily guidance offered by parents at home, and best results can be achieved when counselors and parents correlate their efforts. Parents are urged to contact their student’s counselor frequently. Appointments with counselors can be made by calling 967-4573.
A-G: Casey Sheets H-M: Coray Dykes
N-Z: Kevin DeCoster Seniors: Dale Goodman

FEES
Some courses, such as Woodworking, Art, Foods, Photography, and others, require a fee for materials. These fees must be paid prior to end of the third week of class. Students who have not paid the fee or made other arrangements will be dropped from the class after the third week. Seniors will not receive a diploma or transcript and transcripts will not be mailed to colleges until all fees are paid.

GRADES
Each student’s achievement for each semester is represented by an official grade in each course. The students and parents are notified of this grade through a computer-printed grade report that is mailed home about one week after the end of the semester. At six and twelve weeks, a computer-printed progress report is given to students. Only semester grades are recorded on transcripts or used to figure GPA.
A grade of incomplete will be assigned when circumstances arise which are beyond the control of the student and the teacher. The course should be made up in a timely fashion (usually not extending more than three weeks beyond the end of the grading period). Students who withdraw from a class after more than six weeks will receive an “F”. Exceptions will be made only when the teacher, counselor and administrator determine otherwise.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Generally, in order to receive a regular High School Diploma, students are required to take 24 credits and to attend all classes in accordance with Board Policy and Oregon Revised Statute. Only those students who have fully completed the graduation requirements may participate in the graduation ceremony. The following courses are required by the Greater Albany Public Schools:

CREDITS REQUIRED FOR REGULAR DIPLOMA
English/Language Arts 4 Credits
Mathematics 2 Credits
Science 2 Credits
Social Studies 3 Credits
Health 1 Credit
Physical Education 1 Credit
Career Exploration 0.5 Credit
Fine/Applied Arts or Second Language 3 Credits
Electives including CAM Courses 7.5 Credits
24 Credits

EARLY GRADUATION
Early graduation is the completion of credit requirements for graduation in fewer than twelve years. Early graduation should make it possible for students to take advantage of diverse learning opportunities outside the school setting. See your counselor or a school administrator for guidelines.

HOMEWORK
Homework is assigned to provide students an opportunity to practice independently what has been presented in class, to improve the learning process and to aid in the mastery of skills. Whatever the task, the experience is intended to be complementary to the classroom process.
West Albany High School teachers can be contacted through e-mail. Example: first name_last name@albany.k12.or.us (Refer to page 5 for staff listing.)

IF YOU MOVE
The Office must be notified of any change of phone number or address that occurs during the school year so that we can update our records.

IN-DISTRICT TRANSFERS
Parents or guardians desiring an exception to their son or daughter’s enrollment at the board designated neighborhood school should file an In-District Student Transfer Request Form JECC-AR(2) with the Superintendent’s Office. You may obtain this form from any school in the District or at the District Office. Students are admitted on the basis of space availability and the need for the transfer.

INFECTION/DISEASE INSTRUCTION
An age-appropriate plan of instruction about infections/diseases including AIDS, HIV and Hepatitis B has been included as an integral part of the district’s health curriculum. Any parent may request that his/her student be excused from that portion of the instructional program required by Oregon law by contacting the principal for additional information and procedures. Students of parents with questions about the district’s AIDS, HIV, and HBV health education program should contact our counseling office.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
The National Honor Society initiates new junior and senior members early in second semester each year. To be initiated, the student must have an accumulative GPA of 3.65 or better. Additionally, candidates must have demonstrated excellent citizenship, service, and a positive attitude in school and community. Transfer students who have been inducted into National Honor Society at their former high schools will be admitted into the West Albany Chapter.

PROGRAM EXEMPTIONS
Students may/shall be excused from a state-required program or learning activity for reasons for religion, disability or other reasons deemed appropriate by the district. An alternative program or learning activity for credit may or may not be provided. All such requests should be directed to the principal by the parent in writing and include the reason for the request.

SCHEDULE CHANGES
Students are encouraged to give careful thought to the classes they choose. The scheduling process allows students to make class choices; student schedule changes will not be made for a change of heart, to be with friends, etc. Under some circumstances, schedule changes may be necessary. If a schedule change is necessary, make an appointment with your counselor.

STUDENTS’ DAILY SCHEDULE/OPEN PERIODS
A full-time student will attend several classes and a study hall, unless special arrangements have been made with a school administrator. Students attend these classes by going to our (4) eighty-eight minute classes one day and the other four (4) the following day. Students must be enrolled in a minimum of five (5) classes. Students who have a Study Hall at the beginning or end of the day (Periods 1, 2, 7, and 8) and are on track to graduate have the option of having an open period. This is given only with signed parent permission. It is granted with the stipulation that the student not be on campus during this time. Students must arrange their own consistent transportation. Bus riders may not exercise this option.

STUDY HALL
Study Hall is designed for students to complete homework assignments, improve study skills, and increase their reading ability. Students are expected to arrive on time with learning materials or an appropriate book to read.

TRANSCRIPT REQUESTS
If you need a copy of a transcript either to pick up or to have sent to a college you must fill out a Transcript Request form which is available in the Main Office. Due to the large volume of transcript requests we receive, we now charge $2.00 for each Official Transcript requested. Official transcripts include all grades, test scores, are placed in a sealed envelope, and mailed if necessary. Unofficial transcripts are no charge, do not include test scores, and will not be mailed.

VALEDICTORIAN CANDIDACY
In order to be designated a valedictorian at West Albany High School the following criteria must be met:
1. Obtain a Certificate of Initial Mastery
2. Have the highest GPA computed for all eight high school semesters.
3. Take a minimum of six classes each semester.
4. Attend West Albany High School for the entire senior year.
5. The candidate is required to have a minimum of four (4) credits in each of the following areas: Social Studies, Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science.
6. The candidate will complete a minimum of four (4) classes from the list of courses below, and must take at least one AP exam.
AP Biology AP US History AP European History
AP English Lit AP Calculus AP Chemistry
AP English Comp AP Micro Econ.
AP Prob. & Stat. 4th Year Language

The student must act with respect, honesty, integrity, courage, personal responsibility, self-discipline, kindness, justice, and social responsibility. The student will show appropriate behavior with no major violations of the student rules of behavior. If a student’s behavior is in question, then the Site Council will conduct a review.

~STUDENT SERVICES~

BUS TRANSPORTATION
The school buses are district owned and provide free transportation for students who live at least one mile from school. Rooter buses are often provided for away games at very low fares. Complete cooperation is required of everyone at all times. Bus rules are posted on each bus. Students taking rooter buses are expected to follow school rules, bus rules, and go and return on the same bus unless otherwise arranged in advance with the advisor. If you have any questions concerning route and/or pickup times, you should call the Bus Garage at 967-4626.

CAFETERIA
The West Albany cafeteria provides six choices of meals for students and staff, ranging from the full plate lunch to sandwiches and snacks. The cost of a regular meal ticket is $1.90 and may be purchased in Student Services. Food and drink may also be purchased before school and during breaks.

CAREER CENTER
The Career Center is a facility that compliments the Guidance/Counseling Department. It houses a variety of career and college information such as printed material, the Career Information Service (CIS) computer system, and job/scholarship bulletin boards. It is in the Career Center that career speakers, military personnel and college visitations are scheduled. Individual career interviews are conducted with students by the Career Center personnel.

F.A.C.T. FAMILIES AND AGENCIES COMING TOGETHER
Sometimes families have a hard time finding the health and social services they need. FACT is here to help! FACT will help you learn about programs that you can use, and can assist you in reaching those programs. FACT’s office is located in Fairmont School. For more information, call 924-3720.

ILLNESS AND PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION
Although good attendance is important, please keep students home if they are seriously ill. Be prepared to provide transportation for students who become ill at school. School personnel cannot provide medication, including aspirin, to students. Prescription medications used by students must be kept in the school office and registered with the secretary.

INSURANCE
No medical insurance is provided to students by West Albany High School or Greater Albany Public Schools. Students wishing to purchase a policy from a private insurance carrier may receive an application from the Main Office. The school does not carry insurance for damage or loss to personal items.

LIBRARY
The West Albany Library has more than 12,000 volumes as well as current magazines and newspapers. The Library has 27 computers capable of internet access. In addition, the card catalog and the checkout system are completely computerized. Individual professional assistance is available between 7:30 a.m. and 3:15 p.m. each school day. Call or e-mail Mr. Lawson in the library for additional information or see the library homepage at http://wahs.8j.net/library.

LOCKERS
The student’s locker is loaned so that textbooks and property can be stored by the student. Neither West Albany nor the District can be responsible for items damaged or stolen from hall, P.E., or athletic lockers. The student should be sure to secure the lock when leaving the locker and should never give the combination to anyone. Students should use only the lock issued by the school. No more than one person should occupy a locker. Students are financially responsible for damage to lockers and lost locks. Lockers remain under the jurisdiction of the district even when issued to an individual student. The district reserves the right to inspect all lockers. Searches of lockers may be conducted at any time there is reasonable cause to do so, whether or not a student is present.

LOST, FOUND, STOLEN
All lost or found items are turned into the Student Services Office, and students should inquire there for missing items. Students need to report stolen items immediately. They will be asked to give a brief written description to an Assistant Principal. Students are discouraged from bringing sums of money or items of value to school. The school is not responsible for items stolen from lockers on the premises of West Albany High School.

PEER COUNSELING
Sometimes a student needs someone about the same age to talk to. Trained student peer counselors are available to listen and to help the student reflect on a problem. The peer counselors occasionally suggest referral to a school counselor or to a community agency.

PEER MEDIATION
This program gives an opportunity for students to come to their own solution to a problem rather than having someone impose a solution on them. Mediation is a method of conflict resolution, which stresses compromise and agreement between two parties rather than one party winning and the other losing. For more information contact Dani Blackwell at 967-4545 or the Counseling Office at 967-4573.

PEER TUTORING
This program is designed to give students extra help with their studies. Students have the option of working one-on-one with a tutor or in study groups. For more information contact the Counseling Office at 967-4573.

STUDENT BODY CARDS
This student body card is the student’s key to participation in activities and athletics. It is used for checking out library books, admission to games and dances, and identification purposes. Students need to carry their student body cards at all times. Cards will not be issued to students owing fees, unless arrangements have been made with the Principal.

STUDENT CENTER
The Student Center and adjoining courtyard is designed to be an additional eating area for students at lunch time. Food will be served by the cafeteria staff. All students using the center during class hours need to sign in upon entering. Students may use the center if they have an open period, and they will be expected to stay for the remainder of the period and work quietly. Students with a pass from staff member may use the center as a place to study for specific time. The center is not for students who have been removed from class by a teacher.

STUDENT FEES
Student Fees $33.00
Athletics (Optional) $90.00 per sport
(maximum $180/child, $270/family)
Annual (all pages are in color) $60.00
Lunch Tickets $1.90

Student recognition programs;
Fund to assist needy students;
Student assemblies and activities;
Registration fees for academic competition, i.e., band choir, speech;
Support of school sponsored clubs;
Printed course catalogs;
Reduced rate or free admission to student events, i.e., athletic contests, dances.

STUDENTS WHO DRIVE
Greater Albany Public Schools provide transportation to and from school for students living more than one mile from the school site. Transportation is also provided by the School District for many of the schools’ extra-curricular activities such as athletic events and assorted field trip opportunities. However, student/parent transportation situations often occur for many other activities that students participate in at WAHS: sports practices, internships, business partnership experiences, cadet teaching, school annual and newspaper work, leadership activities, cheerleading and dance teams to mention a few. A student desiring to drive as a matter of convenience during school hours, may do so only with the approval of the parent and advisor. This approval is contingent upon the parent filling out an Application for Permit to Drive form. Additionally, the Permission to Ride form is also needed for students riding in these private non-school vehicles. Therefore, if a student is driving or riding to these events the parent/advisor must give permission and a form(s) is filed in the Main Office.

TALENTED AND GIFTED PROGRAM
West Albany’s Talented and Gifted students are selected by performance on standardized tests and by a selection process involving teachers, parents, and students. These TAG students are guided to appropriate classes and to activities, which make use of their unique academic talents. Students and parents should contact the Main Office if they have any questions.

TEACHER ASSISTANCE TEAM
The Teacher Assistance Team is made up of staff members who have the desire to help students who are experiencing academic difficulty. The team meets to discuss methods of assisting these students and to assign a staff member to follow up with specific solutions. When appropriate, students are referred for further evaluation.

WAHS TEEN PARENT PROGRAMS (STUDENT-PARENT DEVELOPMENTAL CHILD CARE)
The center is state certified and has as qualified staff that provides a safe learning environment for infants and toddlers 6 weeks to 39 months. We provide hands-on early childhood education for student parents. We also provide student parents an opportunity to finish their high school education knowing their children are being well cared for. The center is a support system for student parents and is open for both day and night school students. Contact Cyndie Yarber or Parma Ferguson for information and registration at 967-4545 ext. 255.

TEXTBOOKS
Textbooks in good condition are loaned, free of charge, to the students. Loss or damage of any book requires restitution by the person to whom it was issued. All students can help protect themselves by inking their name in the proper place in every book issued to them.

TELEPHONE MESSAGES TO STUDENTS
Our clerical staff is instructed not to accept telephone messages for students from anyone other than their parents/guardians. We request that parents/guardians restrict their calls to unusual or unforeseen reasons to eliminate interruption of classes. Please plan ahead to eliminate these calls whenever possible. Your cooperation in this matter is appreciated.

TELEPHONE CALLS BY STUDENTS
We ask our students to use the pay telephones for personal calls. If a student is ill or having some difficulty, we will call the parent or have the student call in our presence. We are sorry that we cannot allow our general student body to have free access to our business telephones, but we cannot conduct school business if our lines are occupied with personal telephone calls made by students. The pay telephones cost 50¢, and are located outside the Main Lobby and in the entrance way by the gym.

TUTORING SERVICES
Students who anticipate a prolonged absence (six weeks or more) for injury, illness, or other reasons may receive home tutoring for up to five hours each week. Arrangements for tutoring may be made by contacting a counselor at 967-4573.

~STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES~

We expect every student and staff member to act with:
• Respect: Recognizing the worth and rights of self and others, the value of property and the environment. Respect includes valuing authority and being courteous to others.
• Honesty/Integrity: Integrity – being true to one’s ethical beliefs and taking action based on those beliefs.
• Courage: Having the internal strength to follow through on what one believes to be right and fair. Courage includes taking action on personal commitments.
• Personal Responsibility: Being responsible for one’s own actions and future. Having ownership and being accountable for the outcomes of decisions, and learning from mistakes.
• Self-Discipline: Being able to control or improve one’s pattern of behavior in moral, mental, and physical wellness.
• Kindness: Thinking and caring about the welfare of others. Engaging in the considerate personal interaction that enriches the lives of others.
• Justice: Upholding what one believes to be fair. Being fair minded in the treatment of others.
• Social Responsibility: Being willing to participate in or develop community through volunteerism, voting, community service, and showing respect for country.

ATTENDANCE
The primary responsibility for attendance lies with the student and the parents. Students are expected to attend school daily in accordance with the annual school calendar and to be punctual to all of their classes. Every effort should be made to avoid having students out of scheduled classes. Oregon State Compulsory Attendance Law requires that parents/guardians be responsible for sending children between the ages of 7 and 18 years to school and maintain regular attendance at the school. Failure to send a student to school and maintain a student in regular attendance is a Class C violation and is punishable by a citation.
• Student must present a signed and dated note from a parent explaining the absence, or the parent may contact the Attendance Office. This must be done within three days of the last day absent.
• Students who fail to have absences excused are subject to disciplinary action by the school.
• The student will confer with the teacher to receive classroom work missed due to the absence.
• If a student is absent from class, the school attempts to make telephone contact with the home.
• After a student accumulates six absences in any class in a semester, a letter is mailed by the high school to the student’s home to invite the parents/guardians to schedule a conference with the vice principal to discuss the problem. The letter will also identify possible withholding of credit; a change in the student’s program or other consequences will be identified as potential administrative actions.
• In accordance with GAPS Board Policy and Administrative Regulation JEA-AR(3), students who accumulate excessive absences (8) will have academic credit withheld. A mandatory meeting with parent, student and administrator will be held to determine the status of the student and an appropriate course of action.

CHECKING IN AND OUT OF SCHOOL
If a student finds it necessary to leave during the school, he/she must check out through the Attendance Office. After verification by a parent note or phone call, the student will be issued a temporary off-campus pass. If a student arrives at school after classes begin, he/she should check in through the Attendance Office. Failure to follow these rules may result in an unexcused absence. When a students’ school day is finished, he/she should leave the building promptly and not return until the next scheduled class or activity.

OFF CAMPUS LUNCH PRIVILEGE
The Administration and School Board will determine whether or not off campus lunch privilege will be allowed under District Board Policy: JEFA. Only students who have a signed parent permission slip on file in the office will be allowed to participate. (Form available in the front office.) Freshmen and sophomores are not eligible for the privilege. Any student who leaves campus unauthorized during lunch will forfeit the privilege. Students who participate are still responsible for all school behavioral expectations, and standard school consequences will still apply to off campus violations. In accordance with Board Policy: JEFA, the student must:
• use the most direct route to and from school;
• avoid trespassing on private property;
• not violate any city, state, or federal law;
• maintain a no-tardy policy upon returning to school from lunch;
• not ride in a vehicle driven by anyone other than a parent, unless written authorization is obtained from the parent.
In addition to the above criteria, West Albany students will maintain a clean neighborhood, be respectful of local businesses, and observe rules of safety at all times. Students will not “visit” or “drop-in” at other schools.

CLOSED CAMPUS
All students attending school in District 8J shall remain on the respective grounds of the schools they attend from the time they arrive at school in the morning until dismissed in the afternoon. Personal business must be taken care of before or after school. All parking lots and athletic facilities are off-limits to students during the day.

COMPLAINTS
The Greater Albany Public School District has established a policy that provides for the prompt resolution of complaints by students, parents or members of the public about district policies and state standards, and to appeal a decision made by district personnel. Board Policy KL, is available in the school office or from the District Office.

COOPERATING WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES
West Albany school officials cooperate and work in conjunction with the Albany Police, Linn County Sheriff, and Oregon State Police as the need arises. Occasionally police request to interview students at school. Generally this is discouraged, but when it is deemed necessary, it will be allowed. In every case not involving child abuse, an attempt will be made to contact parents and request permission for the interview to take place. If parents cannot be contacted, the interview will only take place if, in the judgment of the school administrator, the child may possess information concerning an immediate and impending danger to persons and/or property. The interview will not take place during school time if parents refuse permission.

DANCES
Dances, sponsored by various clubs and organizations, are held throughout the year. They generally occur in the cafeteria. Student Body Cards are required for admission. If you wish to bring a friend who does not attend WAHS, you must fill out a guest pass and have pre-approval from an administrator. Admission will be granted or denied on an individual basis. Generally only high school aged students will be admitted. Middle School students are never admitted. Inappropriate or unsafe behavior such as moshing, lifting students overhead, etc. are not allowed and will result in disciplinary action and loss of dance privileges. Appropriate attire and behavior are required at all times. Dances generally end at 11:00 p.m.

DRESS STANDARDS
Responsibility for personal dress and grooming rests primarily with students and their parents. However, the District sets standards for dress, grooming, and appearance in the following ways:
• Prohibits any clothing that is considered unsafe, dangerous unclean or a health hazard; contains offensive or obscene symbols, signs, slogans or words degrading any gender, cultural, religious or ethnic values; contains language or symbols representing gangs, violence, vandalism, sex, drugs, alcohol or tobacco; is immodest, disrupts or interferes with the educational process.
If the student’s appearance violates one of the standards listed above, the student may be denied the right to attend school until the problem is corrected. A complete list of inappropriate dress can be found in the document “Unacceptable Dress and Appearance”. This document is available in the Main Office. Students participating in voluntary extracurricular activities must conform to any required dress and grooming standards established by the coach or advisor with the concurrence of the school administration.

INTERNET/E-MAIL USE
Internet and E-mail use is available to your students. The system allows students to communicate with other schools, colleges, organizations and individuals around the world through our network. The use of the Internet provides students with the opportunity to share information, learn concepts, and research subjects in depth when otherwise such resources are unavailable. All classrooms and various labs throughout the building have this ability.
With this educational opportunity comes responsibility. Students and parents should have reviewed Administrative Rule IIBGA-AR regarding Electronic Communications during the registration process. Copies of this IIBGA-AR are also available in our Main Office. Please acquaint yourself with this policy. Inappropriate use of the system could result in loss of privileges to use this educational tool.

GANGS AND RELATED ACTIVITY
The Board of Education and West Albany believe that the presence of secret societies and/or gangs creates a threat of substantial disruption or material interference with school and school activities and is harmful to the educational process. Therefore, it is the policy of this school district that student membership in such secret societies and/or gangs in the school environment are prohibited.

GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Our school regulations are designed to protect the safety of everyone. Common courtesy dictates that we observe those regulations. Running in the halls, congregating in large groups and/or sitting on the hall floors may hamper traffic flow and constitute a safety hazard. All students are urged to act responsibly with regard to behavior, which may involve the safety of themselves or others.

HALL PASSES
Students are required to have a hall pass any time they are in the hall during a class period. Students without a pass will be directed back to their class. Students are never to leave a class without the permission of the teacher.

HAZING/INITIATIONS
All forms of hazing or initiation, which cause a student to be embarrassed or uncomfortable are prohibited.

RELEASE OF INFORMATION
The school will not ordinarily disclose personally identifiable information about students without consent. Exceptions to this include release of student information to educational and governmental institutions. Also, the school will release directory information about students without prior consent. Directory information is designated as student names, photographs, dates and places of birth, participation in sports and activities, weight and height of athletic team members, dates of attendance, honors won, and previous schools attended. If a parent or adult student does not want directory information released, a written statement to the principal must be submitted.

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER
The City of Albany assigns a uniformed officer to WAHS. The officer will help promote safety in schools by utilizing community policing principles. He/she will focus on problem solving through pro-active efforts to educate and communicate, and will provide support to the administration in dealing with criminal acts by students or others on the school campus.

SCHOOL PROPERTY
The West Albany High School campus is continuously being maintained and upgraded, and each student has the responsibility to help keep it clean and safe. If accidental damage to the building occurs, report it to the office immediately. Students and parents are financially responsible for damage caused to the building (i.e., broken windows). Vandalism is punishable by law.

STUDENT PARKING
All students driving to school must register their car in the Main Office whether they park in the paid lot or on the street at no cost. The front three-quarters of the lot will be reserved for senior parking at a cost of $10.00 per student. Parking will be available on a first-come basis. The only reserved spaces will be for the Senior Class President, Senior Class Vice President and the Student Body Officers. The back one-quarter of the lot (behind the delineating line) will be open parking to all students at a cost of $5.00 per student. Parking will be available on a first-come basis. Paid parking does not guarantee you a parking space in the paid lot.
Conditions for Student Drivers: To register your car the office will need the license plate number, make, and model of the car. You will then receive a parking permit hang-tag. The hang-tag must be displayed prominently in your car at all times. Students will drive safely in the lot and around the school at all times. There is absolutely no student parking between West Albany High School and Memorial Middle School. Violations of any parking policy will result in disciplinary action, loss of parking privileges, and may be referred to local police. Vehicles improperly parked may be towed at the owner’s expense. District Administrative Rule JFG: The school has the right to search my vehicle “upon reasonable suspicion” on school property, or at a school sponsored activity. The school is not responsible for loss or damage.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT
It is a violation of district policy for any student or staff member to harass other students or staff members through conduct or communication of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that has the effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment. Behaviors such as sexual insults or comments, offensive touching, physically blocking or restraining another student’s movement, displaying sexually suggestive posters in lockers or on notebooks, “de-pantsing”, etc. are all considered forms of sexual harassment, are prohibited, and disciplinary action will be taken.

SKATEBOARDS, IN-LINE SKATES, HACKEY-SACKS, FRISBEES
1. Skateboards and in-line skates represent a safety hazard and are not allowed on the school campus.
2. Hackey-sacks, Frisbees, balls, etc. are not to be used inside the building.

TARDIES
Students are expected to be on time to each class and be prepared with materials to start work at the bell. Late arriving students miss part of a lesson, disturb other students, and interrupt the teaching process. Unexcused tardiness is unacceptable. Each teacher follows the school policy to consequence students who are tardy to class. Tardies are cumulative per class, per semester.

TOBACCO, DRUGS, ALCOHOL
Philosophy: The school’s obligation is to protect the health, welfare and safety of students, and to promote and teach students to make healthy choices. West Albany High School has been designated a drug-free zone. Therefore, the promotion of drugs, alcohol or tobacco is prohibited.
Policy – JFCI-AR: The possession, selling and/or use of illegal and harmful drugs, alcohol and tobacco is strictly prohibited. This includes drug possession, selling and/or use at school during the regular school day and/or at any district/school related activity, regardless of time or location and while being transported on district-provided transportation. Students in violation of the district’s drug, alcohol and tobacco policy will be subject to disciplinary action and referral to law enforcement officials, as appropriate, in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

VEHICLES (AUTOMOBILES, CYCLES)
Students who drive to school must register their vehicles in the Main Office. Students wanting to park in the parking lot will be charged a fee: seniors $10.00; all other students $5.00. They will be given a hang-tag parking permit that must be hung from the rearview mirror in the front windshield of the vehicle that they drive to school. Students will drive safely in the lot and around the school at all times. District Administrative Rule: JFG The school has the right to search my vehicle “upon reasonable suspicion” on school property, or at a school sponsored activity. The school is not responsible for loss or damage.
Student parking areas include:
Area A - The lined area without numbers south of the gym doors. The areas marked with yellow stripes and “No Parking” are fire zones and must be kept clear at all times.
Area B - The lined area without numbers between West and Memorial Middle School near the Choir room doors.
Area C - The overflow area along elm Street behind Memorial Middle School. The sidewalk behind Memorial is to be used when walking to and from this parking lot.

VISITORS
School policy is to accept only those visitors who have legitimate business at school. Visitors and guests must register in the Main Office immediately upon entering the building through the front door and wear a visitor pass. Student-aged visitors are ordinarily not accepted. Parents are always welcome. We do ask that all parents check in at the Main Office when they enter the building and wear a visitor pass if they plan to be in areas other than the office. To be assured of a meeting, please call ahead for an appointment with the administrator, teacher or counselor with whom you wish to meet.

WALKMANS, PAGERS, CELL PHONES
1. Disc and tape players are not to be used in the halls or around campus.
2. Pagers and cellular telephones are not allowed in the building because of their potential to disrupt the educational environment.
3. Students may use cell phones outside of the building during lunch, break, before and after school.
Improper use of any item may result in confiscation of that item. Any item confiscated will be returned to the student or his/her parent or guardian after 24-hours.

WEAPONS (BP-JFCJ)
Students shall not bring, possess, conceal or use a weapon on district property, or at activities under the jurisdiction of the district. For purposes of this policy, and as defined by state and federal law, weapon includes:
1. “Dangerous weapon” – any weapon, device, instrument, material or substance, which under the circumstances in which it is used, attempted to be used or threatened to be used is readily capable or causing death or serious physical injury;
2. “Deadly weapon” – any instrument, article or substance specifically designed for and presently capable of causing death or serious physical injury;
3. “Firearm” – any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, frame or receiver of any such weapon or any firearm silencer;
4. “Destructive device” – any device with an explosive, incendiary or poison gas component or any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into any destructive device or from which a destructive device may be readily assembled. A destructive device does not include any device, which is designed primarily or redesigned primarily for use as a signaling, pyrotechnic, line throwing, safety or similar device.
Weapons may also include, but not be limited to knives, metal knuckles, straight razors, noxious or irritating gases, poisons, unlawful drugs or other items fashioned with the intent to use, sell, harm threaten or harass students, staff members, parents and patrons.

Students found to have brought, possessed, concealed or used a dangerous or deadly weapon, firearm or destructive device in violation of this policy shall be expelled for a period of not less than one year as required by law. All other violations of the policy will result in discipline up to and including expulsion and/or referral to law enforcement as appropriate. The Superintendent may, on a case-by-case basis, modify this expulsion requirement. The district may also request suspension of a student’s driving privileges or the right to apply for driving privileges with the Oregon Department of Transportation, as provided by law. Appropriate disciplinary and/or legal action will be taken against students or others who assist in activity prohibited by this policy.

~DISCIPLINE~

DEFINITIONS OF DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
Administrative Options – It is recognized that not all disciplinary actions can be included or defined. Therefore, the Administration reserves the right to determine certain disciplinary actions, which more accurately meet the needs of the student. These options may include, but are not limited to, community or school service, individual contracting, agency referral, or counseling.
Student Conference – Formal or informal conference between student and one or more school members.
Parent Contact – Telephone call or letter to legal guardian.
Parent Conference – A meeting with student, parents, teachers, counselor and administrator.
Detention – Assignment of student to a supervised project, either during the school day or after school. Noon detention is held every day.
Saturday School – Assignment to Saturday supervised study period held at Memorial Middle School from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Suspension – In School: Temporary removal of the privilege of attending classes, interacting with the student body, and from all school events including evening activities. Student will spend the day studying in a room at school. Out-of-School: Temporary removal of the privilege of attending school and from all school events and activities. Suspended students are not to be on our campus for any reason, not allowed on any other school campus, and they are to remain under the supervision of their parent or guardian during the school day.
Expulsion – The termination of the student’s right to attend school and all school events, including evening activities, for up to one calendar year.

DUE PROCESS
When an alleged offense occurs, the procedure below will be followed:
1. The student will be informed of the conduct involved and the nature of the charge and will be given the opportunity to present his/her view of the occurrence.
2. If discipline is to follow, the student will be informed of the immediate action, reasons for its administration, and subsequent procedures to be followed.
3. When a student is suspended or when stronger discipline is contemplated, the student’s parents will be notified as soon as possible.
4. In working through disagreements, the District complaint procedure will be followed.

DEFINITIONS AND CONSEQUENCES OF INFRACTIONS
Consequences for the most common student behaviors that interfere with education are listed below. Actions taken will very based on individual circumstances. Note: Disciplinary action may extend beyond the following guidelines. If an infraction violates the law, the appropriate enforcement agency may be contacted.

	West Albany High School
	1130 Queen Ave SW Albany, OR 97322 Office Hours: M-F 7:00 - 4:00	Main Office: (541) 967-4545 Fax: 924-3701 Attendance: 967-4551	Career Center: 967-4540 Counseling: 967-4573 Registrar: 967-4553