VERNON HILLS HIGH SCHOOL www.d128.org

145 N. Lakeview Parkway Vernon Hills, IL 60061

Main Office: 847-932-2000 Community High School District 128 Libertyville High School 50 N. Lakeview Parkway Suite 101 708 West Park Avenue Vernon Hills, IL 60061 Libertyville, IL 60048 District Office: 847-247-4500 Main Office: 847-327-7000

Board of Education Mr. Pat Groody, President

Ms. Judy Sugarman, Vice President Mrs. Marsha Oberrieder, Secretary

Mr. Stephen Arthur Mr. Alexander DelliPaoli Jr.

Mrs. Karin Lundstedt Mrs. Ellen Mauer

VHHS Student School Board Representatives:

Mansi Kathuria Juliana McLain (alternate)

Community High School District 128 District Administration

Mr. Prentiss Lea, Superintendent Dr. Al Fleming, Associate Superintendent

Mrs. Yasmine Dada, Assistant Superintendent for Business Mrs. Deborah Larson, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction

Mrs. Mary Todoric, Director of Communications Mr. Mick Torres, Director of Technology

Mrs. Kathleen Witt, Director of Special Services

Community Education Office Website: www.comed128.org

Name Phone Room Dr. Buzz Perry, Director 932-2019 1601 Mrs. Madeline Dederich, Secretary 932-2171 1601 Mrs. Donna Levy, Secretary 932-2176 1601 Ms. Donnalyn McGrady, Evening Assistant 932-2176 1601

VERNON HILLS HIGH SCHOOL 145 N. LAKEVIEW PARKWAY

VERNON HILLS, IL 60061

Main Office (847) 932-2000 Athletic Hotline (847) 932-2402

Fax (847) 932-2049 www.district128.org

The formula to contact faculty and staff members through email is: first name period last name @d128.org An example of this is: ellen.cwick@d128.org ADMINISTRATION Title Name Phone Room Principal Dr. Ellen Cwick 932-2043 1500A Assistant Principal Mr. Jonathan Guillaume 932-2157 1500F Assistant Principal Mrs. Jean Aucutt 932-2189 1500 Athletic Director Mr. Brian McDonald 932-2022 1100 DEPARTMENT SUPERVISORS/DIRECTORS Title Name Phone Room Applied Technology/ Ms. Nancy Shipley 932-2198 1311D Business Education/Library/ Family & Consumer Science Art/Music/Theater Mr. Frank Lestina 932-2282 1515 Asst. Athletic Director Mr. Chris Curry 932-2041 1100 English Dr. Paul Kemp 932-2024 2303H International Language Mrs. Cheryl Steffens 932-2015 1311E Mathematics Ms. Judy Smithhisler 932-2012 1311B Physical Welfare/ Mr. Michael Mullaney 932-2169 0218 Health/ Driver Education Science Mr. Tom Chinske 932-2004 2303E Social Studies Mr. Jim Seward 932-2009 2303G Special Services Mrs. Robin Myerberg 932-2090 1520B Student Activities Director Mrs. Deborah Beagle 932-2195 1512 VERNON HILLS HIGH SCHOOL LEARNING SUPPORT TEAMS (LST) Counseling Supervisor Mrs. Sue Butler 932-2267 1540C LAST NAME BEGINS WITH Name Phone Room BLUE TEAM Mrs. Madeline Powell, Dean 932-2263 1560B A – Del Mr. Ron Long, Counselor 932-2032 1560C Dem - Jos Mrs. Judy Stone, Counselor 932-2031 1560D Joz – Mar Mrs. Tiffany Heinlein, Counselor 932-2293 1560F A - K Mrs. Priscilla Sienko, Social Worker 932-2029 1560E Mrs. Nancy DiCarlo, Secretary 932-2269 1560 Mrs. Marla Pierce, Secretary 932-2002 1560 SILVER TEAM Mr. Greg Stilling, Dean 932-2270 1540B Mas – Ro Mrs. Deann Firnbach, Counselor 932-2266 1540D Ru - Z Mrs. Becki Bellito Counselor 932-2264 1540A L - Z Mr. Doug Dusthimer, Social Worker 932-2268 1540E

Ms. Jane Wenzel, Secretary 932-2006 1540 Mrs. Susan Roy, Secretary 932-2285 1540 Student Assistance Mrs. Margaret Pither 932-2158 1540E Coordinator College Career Counselor Mr. Scott Birtman 932-2166 1590 CRC Secretary Mrs. Ruth Netland 932-2165 1590 OTHER Title Name Phone Room Athletics Office Mrs. Kathy Catanzaro 932-2023 1100 Attendance Clerk Mrs. Marion Perkins 932-2400 1550 Bus Information Lakeside Transportation 263-7619 Buildings & Grounds Mr. Mike Falasz 932-2045 0224B Supervisor IRC (Instructional Ms. Lynda McDowell 932-2038 2400 Resource Center) Library Media Center Mrs. Monica Tolva 932-2039 2500 Lost and Found Check your LST 932-2006 1540 Nurse Mrs. Veronica Alshouse 932-2040 1580 Network Manager Mr. Bob Bartnik 932-2056 2401 School Resource Officer Detective Jim Koch 932-2003 1560A Registrar Mrs. Laura King 932-2073 1514 Security/Parking Mrs. Tina Blomgren 932-2173 1570

EMERGENCY SCHOOL INFORMATION In case of a need to close school or go to a delayed start because of a snowstorm or other unfo-reseen reasons, the decision will be made by the administration prior to 6:00 AM, with input from the bus company. Notice will be broadcast over radio stations WKRS (1220AM), WMAQ (670AM), WGN (720AM), B96-FM, 94.7FM, and television stations Fox 32-TV, WGN-TV Chan-nel 9, WMAQ Channel 5 - TV, and CLTV-News or on line at http://www.cancellations.com or http://www.district128.org. The district also uses the AlertNow phone system to contact parents when deemed necessary. In order to use the AlertNow system effectively, parents should keep their student’s LST aware of telephone number changes. For more information regarding this system, visit www.AlertNow.com.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Equal employment opportunities will be provided to all qualified persons regardless of their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability if otherwise able to perform essential job functions with reasonable ac-commodation, unfavorable military discharge, or other protected group status. The Complaint Managers for VHHS are Jean Aucutt (847) 932-2189 and Greg Stilling (847) 932-2270 at Ver-non Hills High School, 145 N. Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061.

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL Welcome to Vernon Hills High School. Each year a handbook is published which contains in-formation essential to the efficient operation of the school. This handbook is intended to provide you with a quick reference of what you can expect at Vernon Hills High School and what is ex-

pected of you. A thorough understanding of the information contained in this handbook will help to ensure that you and your son/daughter will have a pleasant and profitable year. Please re-member that your teachers, support staff and administrators are here to assist you at any time during the school year. I encourage you to call if you have questions regarding the policies and procedures at the school. On behalf of the entire staff at Vernon Hills High School, I encourage you to work with us as we continue to provide a quality educational program for our students. I am looking forward to a great year. Sincerely, Dr. Ellen D. Cwick Principal

FACULTY AND STAFF 2009-2010 To reach the voice mail for the staff listed below, dial (847) 932-2800 followed by their extension number. If you do not know the person’s voice mail extension follow the prompts on the voice mail system. Almond, Ken…………..….Special Services Aide Alshouse, Veronica ....................... School Nurse Atwell, Corey ............. Physical Welfare/Driver Ed Aucutt, Jean .......................... Assistant Principal Austin, Rebecca………………..Special Services Ballenger, Cheryl ........................................ Math Baranyk-Orzoff, Eileen…..…..…..Social Studies Bartnik, Bob ........................... Network Manager Baxter, Kip .......................... Applied Technology Beagle, Deborah .......... Student Activities Director Bellecomo, William… .............................. English Bellito, Matthew ............................ Social Studies Bellito, Rebecca ....................... School Counselor Birtman, Scott ........................... CRC Counselor Bitta, Andy .............................................. Health Blanton, Rachael….....…..Special Services Aide Blomgren, Tina ..................... Security Supervisor Bomgaars, Craig ................................... Science Borden, Alice............... Testing Center Facilitator Borgula, Patricia……....…Special Services Aide Brettner, Paul ............................................. Math Butler, Sue ...................... Counseling Supervisor Calabrese, Joan .................................... Security Calamus, Louis .................... Study Hall Monitor Carroll, Amanda ........................... Social Studies Catanzaro, Kathy .............Athletic Dept. Secretary Caton, Denise………………….Physical Welfare

Caton, Ross ................................. Social Studies Cervantes, Marcella……..Special Services Aide Chapman, Jessica ...................................... Math Chillemi, Pat ............................. Special Services Chinske, Thomas ................. Science Supervisor Clifford, Matthew……………….....Social Studies Compton, Andrew...... Physical Welfare/Driver Ed Conroy, Sean ......................................... English Cope, Peggy ............. Data Processing Specialist Crevier, Sean ...................................... Business Curry, Christopher ................... English/Assistant Athletic Director Cusick-Acosta, Jodi .......... International Language Cwick, Ellen ......................................... Principal Czarnecki, Jason ........................................ Math Dahlstrom, Stefanie ....................................... Art Day, Karen…………………………...……Science DeCaluwe, Casey……..….…PE Teacher’s Aide DeLuca, Vince ........... Physical Welfare/Driver Ed Denis, Jennifer ....................................... English DiCarlo, Nancy ............................ LST Secretary Dircks, Pamela ............................. Social Studies Dovel, Barbara ...................... Study Hall Monitor Dusthimer, Douglas ...................... Social Worker Eidmann, Pam .............................LMC/IRC Aide Enders, Michael ..............Custodial/Maintenance Erickson, Kurt ............................... Social Studies Etnyre, Shannon ................................... Science Falasz, Michael ........ Building & Grounds Supervisor Fatta, Frances.......................... Orchestra & Band Ferguson, Jacalyn ....................... Study Hall Monitor Firnbach, Deann ..................... School Counselor Fisher, Tami ............. Dept. Supervisor Secretary Frank, Al ............................................... Security Franz, Fred ............................................ English Freichels, Stephanie ............................... English Friedrich, Paul…………………….Social Studies Gabris, Brooke ........................... Physical Welfare Garcia, Rebeca……………..….Special Services Garrison, Kelly ..... Special Services Social Worker Geltner, Megan .......................................... Math

Gerber, Douglas ..................................... English Gettleman, Judi ........................ Special Services Gong, Elissa.......................................... Science Greenawalt, Kedric ................................ Science Guiard, Christophe .... International Language PT Guillaume, Jon ...................... Assistant Principal Gutzmer, Abbie……………………………….Math Haisley, Lauren ............................... Hall Monitor Healey, Shawn ........................................... Math Heinlein, Tiffany ..................... School Counselor Hendrickx, Megan .................... Special Services Henley, Brittany .......................................... Math Hernandez, Dan….……………...…..Webmaster Hill, Brett……….……..…..Special Services Aide Horwitz, Benjamin…………………..…….English Isabelli, Anthony ..................................... English Isabelli, Kate ........................ Technology Trainer Jackowski, Lin ...................... Fine Arts Secretary Jaffe, Erin............................Physical Welfare PT Jordan, Sherri .................... Main Office Secretary Joshi, Radhika .............. Int’l Language Lab Aide Kasel, Carolyn ................ International Language Kelly, Sean............................... Special Services Kemp, Paul ........ English Department Supervisor Kerth, Alex ......... International Language/English King, Laura ......................................... Registrar Kline, Emily ............................................ English Koch, Jim ..................... School Resource Officer Korney, Steven........................................... Math Kourliouros, Johnny…………..……..PAWS Aide Kovarik, Janet ..................................... Business Kraft, Lawrence ...................................... English Krumpack, Debra .................................. Science Kym, Karen ...................................... Science PT Lestina, Frank .................... Fine Arts Supervisor Levin, Robin………………..………..Hall Monitor Little, Jeremy............................................. Choir Long, Ron .............................. School Counselor Lueken, Adam……………………………….Math Adam Lueken………………………………..Math Macias, Ellen.......................................... English

Malmed, Melissa .................. English/Newspaper Mann, Charles .............................. Social Studies Martin, Karen……….………….Special Services Martin, Sandy…………TV & Technical Services Mason, Colin ............................ Special Services Mathiesen, Lindsay .................. Special Services McCarty, Matthew .................... Special Services McCloud, Adam………………..Special Services McConachie, Carrie ....................... Business Ed. McDonald, Brian ........................ Athletic Director McDowell, Lynda ..........................LMC/IRC Aide McGrew, Colleen……………………….Nurse PT McKerr, Terry ..................Custodial/Maintenance McKiernan, Nora …………Principal’s Secretary Meister-Louria, Wendy..................... English/ELL Meyer, Jamie…………..International Language Miceli, Jerry ............... Physical Welfare/Driver Ed Michaels, Ron..…………………..………Security Miller, Brian ................................... Applied Tech Moeller, Shona ......................... Physical Welfare Monken, Tony ............................................ Math Moran, Michael................. Special Services Aide Morello, Jeff .............. Physical Welfare/Driver Ed Mullaney, Mike ........................ Physical Welfare/ Health/Dr. Ed. Supervisor Myerberg, Robin ...... Special Services Supervisor Nardini, Leslie ........ Family & Consumer Science Netland, Ruth ............................. CRC Secretary Nora, Patricia ..........................English/Yearbook Norton, Brittanny………...Special Services Aide O’Neill, Amy ............................. Special Services Olson, Sheryl ...................................... Business Pagani, John ............................ Physical Welfare Pardun, James ........................................... Math Passarelli, Thomas ............... Computer Services Payawal, Joe……………………..Athletic Trainer Perkins, Marion ................ Attendance Secretary Petersen, Dave ..................................... Science Phelan, Kevin ...... Technical Theater Coordinator Pierce, Marla ................ LST/Assistant Principal’s Secretary

Pither, Margaret ... Student Assistant Coordinator Powell, Madeline ..................... Dean of Students Raciak, Kim .................... International Language Ravenscraft, Joshua .............................. Science Richert, Suzanne…….…Teacher Support Clerk Rivera, Peter ........................ Computer Services Rogers, Jim ..................................... Hall Monitor Rous, Kirsten ............................. Athletic Trainer Roy, Susan ................................. LST Secretary Rush, Jason…………………………...….Science Russell, Sheila ......................... Special Services Sandler, Marla ..............................LMC/IRC Aide Sas, Mary…….……….Community Ed Assistant Savage, Jim .................................................. Art Sawicki, Michelle ............ International Language Schroetter, Dave ...................... Physical Welfare Seibt, Nicole……………...……….……….English Senning, Stella………………..LMC/IRC Aide PT Sette, Gina ............................ Study Hall Monitor Seward, Jim ............... Social Studies Supervisor Shipley, Nancy ..........Applied Tech/Business Ed/ Family & Consumer Science/Library Supervisor Sienko, Priscilla ............................ Social Worker Skeffington, Nancy .............. School Psychologist Skurski, Diane......... Computer Services Secretary Smithhisler, Judith ...................... Math Supervisor Stainslaw, Susan .............. Special Services Aide Steffens, Cheryl.............. International Language Supervisor Stevens, Faye ................................. Hall Monitor Stevens, Sonya ............ Special Services/English Stilling, Greg ........................... Dean of Students Stoinski, Heidi ........... Data Processing/Assistant Principal’s Secretary Stone, Judy ............................ School Counselor Stoub, Sarah ......................................... Science Sundell, Randy .......................................... Band Tangney, Alyssa………………………….Science Tolva, Monica ................ Library Media Specialist Torres, Mick ..... Educational Technology Director Townsend, Andrea ................ Speech-Language

Pathologist Tracy, Laura ................................. Social Studies Trybus, Coral ................... Main Office Secretary Tye-Spytek, Jennifer............................. Math PT VanHowe, Linda ................. Buildings & Grounds Secretary Wagner, Kathryn……………...LMC/IRC Aide PT Walgren, Jay ......................................... Science Walls, Andrea…..….Dept. Supervisor Secretary Warmbold, Bo ....................... Technical Services Warning, Richard .................................. Security Wenzel, Jane .............................. LST Secretary Weppler, Kathryn ................................ ELL Aide Westerman, Mary ......Special Services Secretary Whitescarver, Kelley ...... Family & Cons. Science Wietrzak, Elizabeth….….Transition Coordinator Wilson, Robert ............... International Language Witt, Kathleen .......... Director of Special Services Wolf, Chris ............................................ Science Wolff, Jeanne ................ Family & Cons. Science Young, Bonnie ................................ Bookkeeper Yu, Thomas ..................... Special Services Aide Zacharko, David ............. AV & Technical Services Zorilla, Nelly………………..….Cafeteria Monitor KEY: (PT) Part Time

ACADEMIC INFORMATION The mission of Vernon Hills High School is to build upon a district tradition of quality in the pursuit of knowledge. The development of excellence to meet the needs of today and the challenges of tomor-row is our goal. For over ninety years District 128 has maintained an excellent reputation for providing quality educational programs to our community. Numerous national, regional, and state honors have been awarded to the student body, administration, faculty, and staff. The community, staff and students want to be part of what Vernon Hills High School has to offer. Knowledge is the focus of our efforts. Vernon Hills High School strives for the pursuit of excellence by creating opportunities that en-hance individual development and the quality of life. Our flexible program reflects the unique interests, aspirations, and values of the community, student body, and staff. Together we face the future, confident that we can respond to a changing world. Our record of achievement drives our desire and commitment for continued success. AUDITING A COURSE Students may request to take a course on an audit basis within the first six weeks of a semester. For this request to be considered, students must be enrolled in at least five other regularly-

graded academic courses and have a completed audit contract on file with their counselor. When a course that is being taken on an audit basis is successfully completed, the class will be posted on the student’s transcript with a grade of “NG”. No credit will be awarded for a class taken on an audit basis. CHANGE IN LEVEL OF INSTRUCTION Some courses at Vernon Hills High School are offered at more than one ability level. Ability grouping allows some students to proceed at an accelerated pace, and others to proceed at a slower pace to master course content. Students are placed in the various levels of these subjects based on recommendations of de-partments. If a student and teacher feel that performance could be more effective at a different level, a change of levels can be made (class size permitting). For this request to be considered, students must request the level adjustment form from their counselor, after a discussion with their teacher. CLASSIFICATION OF STUDENTS Students are classified according to the year they enter school. Students who enter 9th grade during the 2009-10 school year will be the Class of 2013. These students will be sophomores during the 2010-11 school year, juniors during the 2011-12 school year, and seniors during the 2012-13 school year. Students may opt to graduate before or during their senior year if all graduation requirements are met. Students may petition the principal to waive prerequisite courses if special needs are identified. CORRESPONDENCE AND INTERNET COURSES The following are the requirements regarding correspondence and internet study: 1. No more than two units of correspondence or internet work may be used for graduation

requirements (per BOE). 2. The correspondence or internet course must be approved by the administration prior to

enrolling in the course. 3. Course credit limitations apply. Students may only enroll in six academic classes (.5 credits

per course) plus physical education each semester. 4. Grades for correspondence courses will be posted on VHHS transcripts using the alterna-

tive grading option unless otherwise approved by the principal. 5. A course that is required for graduation can not be taken by correspondence. 6. Students must enroll in a correspondence or internet course no later than (mid semester) of

their senior year if that credit is to be used to meet graduation requirements. 7. If a student is a candidate for June Graduation, then all correspondence course work (in-

cluding the final examination) should be completed by May 1st. Failure to comply may re-sult in the correspondence school’s inability to award credit for the course in time for grad-uation.

COURSE AND CREDIT LIMITATIONS Students must enroll in at least five academic classes plus physical education or health/driver education to be considered a full time student at VHHS. If a student drops a fifth academic class, he/she will receive a failing grade in that class and not be considered a full time student. Students may enroll in and earn credit in six academic classes plus physical education or health/driver education. A maximum of two (2) credits may be earned during any one summer. Courses taken at locations other than District 128 must receive approval by the administration prior to the start of the course.

COURSE LEVEL EXPLANATION/WEIGHTED GRADES VHHS is committed to provide a program, which will meet the unique educational needs, inter-ests, abilities, and aspirations of each of its students. To help accomplish this goal, three levels of academic instruction have been developed. 1. Advanced Placement courses are highly challenging courses with expectations that stu-

dents will work independently and demonstrate high levels of critical and analytical thinking, reading, and writing. The textbooks and materials used are above grade level or at college level. The goal of the course is to prepare the student for the Advanced Placement exam, which may permit a student to receive college credit and/or placement.

2. Honors courses demand high levels of cognitive and problem-solving processes and inde-pendent work. A rigorous instructional pace allows for both curricular depth and enrichment. These courses prepare students for college work and future study in Advanced Placement courses.

3. Regular courses provide instruction to develop skills that allow concentration on acquisition and application of new knowledge. These courses prepare students for college work or other post-secondary options.

The following indicates the weighted grading scale: A.P. Honors Regular A - 5.0 A - 4.5 A - 4.0 B - 4.0 B - 3.5 B - 3.0 C - 3.0 C - 2.5 C - 2.0 D - 1.0 D - 1.0 D - 1.0 EXTENDED STUDY COURSES Some courses are designated as being available for extended study (see curriculum guide). Students may elect to further their studies in that class by repeating the class for grade and credit. GRADING ALTERNATIVE GRADING OPTION (AGO) The AGO, has been developed to encourage students to take more rigorous courses. By elect-ing to take a course using AGO, it is possible for students to experience a broader curriculum as part of their four-year program. For this request to be considered, students: • must be enrolled in at least four other regularly graded academic courses. • must have a completed AGO contract on file with their counselor by the end of the first six

weeks of a semester, and • cannot use the AGO for classes that are required for graduation. Students who select the AGO will be expected to meet all course requirements. Students will: • attend and participate in class activities, • complete all class assignments, and • take the final examination for the class. Summary of AGO Grades and Implications: Computed in Computed Grade Grade recorded as Credit Honor Roll GPA A, B, C CR Yes No No D D Yes Yes Yes F F No Yes Yes

GRADE-POINT AVERAGE Vernon Hills High School will compute both a weighted and unweighted G.P.A. at the end of each semester and at the end of summer school. Calculations will be based on semester grades from all courses except Driver Education and Physical Education. The weighted G.P.A. will be calculated on Vernon Hills High School’s weighted grade system. The unweighted G.P.A. will be calculated on Vernon Hills High School regular scale regardless of weighting. Plusses (+) or minuses (-) are not computed into the grade-point average. Grade point average is printed on the student report card each semester. For the class of 2010 only, some seniors may have opted to include class rank on their transcripts. For the class of 2011 and beyond, no rank will be calculated or posted on transcripts for anyone. Graduates with a G.P.A. of 4.0 or better, calculated at the end of the 7th semester using either the weighted system or unweighted system will be designated as Honor Graduates. (Seniors, earning a G.P.A. of 4.0 or better after eight semesters, will receive an Honors Medallion after graduation and the posting of final grades). Beginning with the class of 2010, we will no longer recognize a valedictorian at graduation, only Honor Graduates. Anyone with questions should contact the Counseling Department Supervisor. GRADE REPORT METHODS In an effort to improve communication with students and parents about student achievement, all teachers in District 128 use an electronic grade book to post student progress to the Internet. District 128 uses Schoolmaster grade book and the PASS (Parental Access Support System) to do this. Students and parents will receive a password to access student information such as attendance, current marks, fees and payments, GPA History, transcript history and schedule information. Students and parents will still be mailed a paper copy of final progress and seme-ster grades. Students and parents will receive four progress reports each semester – the first three will be posted to PASS and the fourth will be posted to PASS and sent home via mail. Parents wanting hard copy of the first three progress reports can make their request through the school registrar. Each progress report communicates a cumulative grade to date. At eighteen (18) weeks a semester grade will be given based upon the cumulative eighteen week progress report (80% of the semester grade) and the final examination (20% of the semester grade). Any exceptions to the 20% final exam must be approved by the department supervisor.

Italicized are reports sent to students and parents.

4.5 weeks

9 weeks

13.5 weeks

18 weeks

Progress Report 1 - posted to PASS

Progress Report 2 - posted to PASS

Progress Report 3 - posted to PASS

Progress Report 4 (80%) +

Final Exam Grade (20%) = Semester Grade

- posted to PASS and mailed home

Semester Report Card

GRADING Dates for the four progress reports are listed in the school calendar in this book. Final

progress/semester reports are usually mailed within one week of the date listed. Student grades can be viewed from PASS (Parental Access Support System) on the school’s website. Follow-ing a progress report grade or final examination grade, a plus (+) or a minus (-) may be issued to serve as an additional indicator of student achievement. Plusses and minuses will not be rec-orded when issuing semester grades.

Progress Report Grading Scale

Percentage

A+

97

A

93

A-

90

B+

87

B

83

B-

80

C+

77

C

73

C-

70

D+

67

D

63

D-

60

F+

57

F Below 57

Semester Report Grading Scale

Percentage

A

90

B

80

C

70

D

60

F

Below 60

The following letter grades are issued at Vernon Hills High School:

SYMBOL

DESCRIPTION

SYMBOL

DESCRIPTION

A

Superior Achievement

CR

Credit received – appropriate credit awarded; not computed into GPA

B

Above Average Achievement

NG

Audit – no grade or credit awarded

C

Average Achievement

WP

Withdrawn/Passing – no credit awarded

D

Below Average Achievement

WF

Withdrawn/Failing – computed into GPA

F

Failing – no credit awarded

EX

Exempt – no credit awarded

I

Incomplete – no credit awarded

MX

Medically excused – no credit awarded

If a student has an extended absence due to illness, or a pre-arranged absence, a grade of incomplete may be issued. Course work must be completed by the end of the following nine

week grading period or a failing grade may be issued. This grade will be placed on the student’s permanent record and computed into the GPA. HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS Students are expected to fulfill the particular requirements of a curriculum in order to fully benefit from the educational growth that a class has to offer. If these requirements are not fulfilled, the teacher has the right to fail a student. • Teachers will specify the logistics and expectations for satisfactory completion, timeframe, and

grading. • Students will be expected to complete the requirement within the given timeframe that the

teacher has set. • Teachers have a right to refuse homework if not completed in the specified amount of time. • Teachers have a right to make a reduction in grade if a student does not meet the assign-

ment due date. • Students who are sick or have an excused absence will be allowed the same timeframe plus

one day to complete any work that has not been finished. • Students who are assigned in-school suspension may request work they will be missing to

be completed during this quiet study time. Students may also request to make up work upon returning to class. In this regard, no academic penalties shall ensue, however teach-ers have the discretion to set time limits for accepting work upon return to the regular class-room setting.

• Students who are assigned out-of-school suspensions follow the same guidelines as out-lined in the Suspensions (out-of-school) section of the parent/student handbook.

• Students will not be allowed to make up work that is over three weeks late unless the teach-er grants permission. (This is an effort to protect teachers from being overloaded at the end of any semester by a barrage of late work from various students.)

• Parents or students may request an informal hearing if it is felt that any portion of this policy was not followed fairly and justly. The hearing shall consist of the accused instructor, stu-dent(s), parent(s) or legal guardians), and the instructor’s department supervisor.

HONOR ROLL An honor roll will be computed and published twice each year using 1st semester and 2nd semester grades that are recorded on Vernon Hills High School’s report cards. Only students who are enrolled in five or more academic subjects will be considered for the honor roll. There are two honor rolls: “A” honor roll and “B” honor roll. Students earn places on the honor roll in the following manner: A Honor Roll - all “A” grades B Honor Roll - a grade point average of “B” or higher not using weighted grades. Any grade of “D” or “F” in an academic subject disqualifies a student from the honor roll. Only courses that carry a minimum of .50 credit per semester are counted in computing the honor roll. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Twenty (20) credits will be required for graduation, eighteen (18) of which must be from academ-ic courses (everything except Physical Education and Driver Education). To be a candidate for graduation, a student must have 13 ½ credits at the end of the summer before their graduation year. A student may enroll in and earn credit in 6 academic classes plus Physical Education or Health/Driver Education each semester excluding summer school. A maximum of 2 credits per

year may be earned in Summer School. The requirements listed below are minimum requirements for graduation from Vernon Hills High School. Graduation requirements should not be interpreted as admission requirements for colleges or universities. Graduation Requirements * One credit must be an English course and one credit may be English or any other subject defined as a writing intensive course. Courses that award Writing credit are indicated by the label “other: Writing Intensive” in the Passages curriculum guide. ** One credit must be Algebra 1 and one credit must include geometry content. Graduation requirements: English – 4.0 credits total Writing – 2.0 credits (One credit must be an English course and one credit may be English or any other subject defined as a writing intensive course. Courses that award writing credit are labeled Writing Intensive.) Mathematics – 3.0 credits (One credit must be Algebra I and one credit must include geometry content.) Science – 2.0 credits Social Studies – 2.0 credits, 1.0 credit must be U.S. History, 0.5 must be Government; 0.5 elective Social Studies credit. Consumer Education – 0.5 credits or pass the State Proficiency Test (no credit is awarded). Health Education – 0.5 credits students will be exempt from physical education for one seme-ster while they are enrolled in Health. 1.0 Credit from one of the following– Applied Arts (Applied Technology, Business Education, Family and Consumer Science), Fine and Performing Arts (Art, Drama, Music), or International Languages. Driver Education – No credit awarded Students will be exempt from Physical Education for one semester while they are enrolled in Driver Education. 30 clock hours of classroom instruction and 6 clock hours behind the wheel instruction are re-quired for this course. In order for a student to be eligible for Driver Education. 1) he/she must have received a passing grade in at least eight academic courses during his/her previous two semesters and 2) be alcohol and other drug free. Any violation of the alcohol and drug policy will result in the student being withdrawn from Driver Education for one semester beyond his/her eligibility date. At the end of that time, an assessment with a negative drug screen result from an agency approved by District 128 must be submitted to the Student Assis-tance Program Coordinator. If a student is currently enrolled in Driver Education and declared guilty of an alcohol and/or drug violation, the student will be immediately dropped from Driver Education and will be denied enrollment for a full semester which includes summer school. Physical Education – Taken every year (0.25 credits per semester) Must be taken and passed every semester of attendance unless a student is medically excused or exempt. A maximum of two credits may be applied toward graduation. Prairie State Achievement Test Students are required to take the Prairie State Achievement Examination (PSAE) as a junior, unless the student: (a) is exempt according to 105 ILCS 5/2-3.64, or (b) meets ISBE’s require-ments for seniors who did not take the PSAE as juniors and were unable to participate in the retake. The administration reserves the right to suspend a senior’s lunch release to institute a tutoring or support program as needed.

ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS Basic Computer Skills Taken during lunch/study hall for nine weeks by all freshmen Basic Computer Skills is a program that will provide freshman students with the opportunity to learn how to format and manipulate text, graphics and data in Microsoft Word. Internet safety, skill development and report formatting will be included in this 25-minute period during the stu-dent’s lunch/study hall period. All freshman will be required to attend nine weeks of Basic Computer Skills during the study hall portion of their lunch. Exceptions to this are students enrolled in a Keyboarding course or those who took Keyboarding in summer school. Skills for Success Program Taken during lunch/study hall for six weeks by all freshmen Skills for Success is a program that includes activities to identify a student’s personality type and learning style. Students learn to apply their type and style to study strategies, teamwork, crea-tive problem solving, time management, goal attainment, course selection and career identifica-tion. Strategies for standardized tests and familiarization with resources for post-high school education decisions are also covered. All freshmen will be required to attend six weeks of Skills for Success during the study hall por-tion of their lunch. PASS (PARENTAL ACCESS SUPPORT SYSTEM) Parents can easily view information regarding their child such as attendance, grades, fees and payments, academic history, current schedule and messages that may be posted. Each student has a PIN number assigned to them. To access the PASS system, go to www.vhhscougars.org and click on the link to PASS. Enter your child’s student ID along with their PIN and then click on the area you wish to view. If you have any questions regarding the PASS systems, e-mail Peggy Cope at peg-gy.cope@d128.org or call (847) 932-2030. PHYSICAL EDUCATION EXEMPTION POLICY Students in grades 11 and 12 may request exemption from Physical Education for any one of the following reasons: • The student is participating in interscholastic athletics (as certified by the appropriate district per-

sonnel) and is enrolled in six academic courses and is in good standing in the physical welfare program and is at the defined minimum fitness level.

• The student provides written evidence from an institution of higher education that a specific course not included in existing state or local school minimum graduation standards is re-quired for admission. (School district personnel must verify that the student’s present and proposed schedule will not permit completion of the needed course).

• In order to satisfy graduation requirements, a senior who is unable to take the maximum number of classes due to repeating a failed Physical Ed class.

Each request for exemption from physical education instruction is to be verified and eligibility determined on a case-by-case basis by school district staff. Every student excused from physi-cal education course requirements will be assigned a required study hall. For athletic exemptions for junior and senior athletes, it is the student’s responsibility to return to their PE class at the conclusion of his/her sport season. Failure to do so will result in unexcused absences, which must be made up. Failure to comply with exemption policies may result in the loss of future exemption privileges.

REPEATING A COURSE Students may request to repeat a course that they have previously passed when an acceptable skill level needed to proceed to the next sequential class has not been achieved. Students who wish to consider this option should: 1. obtain a “Request to Repeat a Class” form from his / her counselor, 2. be enrolled in at least four other regularly graded academic classes, and 3. complete the approval process prior to the start of the class. If approved and the course is repeated, the grade will be shown on the official transcripts and calculated into the GPA. No credit will be issued for the repeated class. Athletic eligibility may be impacted by this. Students should discuss this with their counselor. REQUEST TO CHANGE A TEACHER It is the school’s philosophy that students select their courses, not their teachers. However, there are instances where a change of teacher might be necessary. A request to change a teacher will be considered providing: 1. The school counselor receives a written request from parents/guardian indicating either this

student or a sibling had the teacher for a class previously and the reason they are requesting a different teacher. A copy of the written request will be forwarded to the appropriate Department Supervisor.

2. The request is made prior to the beginning of each semester. 3. There is space available in another teacher’s class. Requests to change a teacher might be made at other times of the year or for other reasons than specified above. A parent, a teacher or a member of the student’s Learning Support Team can initiate these requests. In these cases, the Department Supervisor, after consultation with the concerned teacher, and appropriate LST members, will make a recommendation to the building principal. SCHEDULE CHANGE High school course selection is an important process, which requires serious planning and deci-sion-making for both students and parents. Students are given ample time during the preceding spring to choose their courses for the next school year. The school’s Master Schedule is built upon these choices. Financial and space constraints do not allow flexibility to grant requests to change courses. Students must be enrolled in at least five academic classes plus physical education/drivers education/health. A sixth academic course may be dropped, refer to the following policy notes: • If a course is dropped within the first six weeks of a semester, no entry is made on the per-

manent record indicating the student was enrolled. • If a course is dropped after the first six weeks of the semester, the course is recorded on the

student’s permanent record with a notation of either WP (withdrawn passing), WF (with-drawn failing), or MX (medically excused).

• A grade of MX is not computed the student’s grade-point average. • A grade of WF is considered the same as a semester failure in computing the grade-point aver-

age. All schedule adjustments must be completed by August 13, 2009. Schedule changes after the first semester begins will be limited to necessary academic circumstances. Failing a prere-quisite course, needing a required course for high school graduation, or making a change in the level of instruction, are examples of necessary changes. Second semester schedule adjustments can be made between the first of December and the end of the 1st semester. Once the 2nd semester begins, schedule changes will be limited to necessary academic circumstances only.

Students, who decide to drop a class after the billing date, will not receive a refund. SERVICE PROGRAM Cougars Caring for the Community-VHHS Community Service Program Vernon Hills High School cares about the community and the need for all responsible individuals to give something of themselves back to the community in which they live. We believe that stu-dents should not only be taught to think, but also to care. In order to show our interest in social awareness, we have created a program by which students will be recognized for volunteerism. Cougars Caring for the Community is open to all students. It is not mandatory for students to participate in order to graduate. Students will not be graded for their volunteer work and it will not count towards their Grade Point Average. No credit will be awarded for volunteering. When a student reaches 60 or 250 hours of volunteer work, the record of this service will be displayed as a transcript note. Students are eligible to receive only one community service transcript note. If a student reaches the 250 hours the initial 60 hour note will be replaced. In order to be recognized for their time and effort in helping others, students must: 1. Meet with their School Counselor to discuss program guidelines and to get approval for the

nature of the work they will be doing. 2. Complete a minimum of 60 hours of volunteer work. These hours can be accumulated over

the student’s high school experience and can be done at different locations. Keep in mind that each location and/or activity must have prior approval from their School Counselor.

3. Submit Volunteer Time Sheets upon completing the 60 or 250 service hours. These forms can be picked up in the LST or printed from the VHHS website.

If you have any questions, please ask your counselor. SUMMER SCHOOL Community High School District 128 has a seven-week summer school during which a student may take two one-semester courses to earn one high school credit. Summer school provides opportunities: 1. to make up work if a student is falling behind in credits, 2. to complete a required course in the summer, making room for additional electives the fol-

lowing school year, and 3. to take courses for enrichment, either for high school credit or for no credit. Students wishing to take Driver Education in summer school must sign up with their counselor between the dates of February 1, 2010 to March 5, 2010. Any student who is falling behind in credits is especially urged to take advantage of summer school. Invariably, the students who fail to meet graduation requirements at the end of four years could have graduated with their class if they had successfully attended summer school. TECHNOLOGY CAMPUS (TC) The classes taken at the Technology Campus (TC) are part of the academic program. VHHS and TC policies and rules apply while students are in school, on school grounds or in transit between campuses. When the TC is in session and VHHS is not, bus transportation will not be available to TC stu-dents at the usual time. Students may not drive to TC without parent, VHHS Administrator, and TC permission. When TC is not in session, students may sign out with parent permission through their LST during their normal tech hours. Students must sign in when returning to school. For all calendar conflicts with VHHS, students will attend TC except for Half Days. On Half Day’s TC students may sign out through the Attendance Office with parent permission during their normal tech hours. Students must sign in when returning to school. Cosmetology students will attend on Half Days. Students from VHHS are not required to attend TC during exam week and will not be penalized by the

TC.

ATTENDANCE ATTENDANCE - PHILOSOPHY Attendance, both punctual and regular, is important to a student’s success in school. It is also the mark of a student’s maturity and sense of responsibility. It is impossible to recreate class-room experience identical to the ones students have missed. Although it is unfortunate and sometimes unavoidable for students to miss class, VHHS encourages high attendance from all students. In the event of absence, students must assume responsibility for seeking out and completing their assignments. The following procedures have been developed with this in mind. ATTENDANCE - RESPONSIBILITIES Students must attend school until age 17 according to Section 26-1 of the Illinois School Code. • Students: to be on time to class so that his/her attendance can be taken in a proper man-

ner to clarify any attendance questions. • Parent/Guardian: to inform the school of any absences and their causes prior to or by

10:00 AM on the day of the absence. Contact the Attendance Center 932-2400 between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM. Parents may call the Attendance Office prior to 7:30 AM and leave the following information: student’s first and last name - spelled out, year in school, name of parent calling, daytime phone where parent may be contacted to verify the call and reason for absence. Notes from par-ents will not be accepted. Absences not cleared within a 24-hour period may result in an unauthorized absence and school consequences.

• School: to monitor the student’s attendance and to inform parent(s)/guardian of any atten-dance problems. The final decision for categorizing an absence rests with the administra-tion.

ATTENDANCE – VALID CAUSES OF ABSENTEEISM Vernon Hills High School, in keeping with Section 26-2A of the Illinois School Code considers the following circumstances to be valid causes for a student’s absence: • Legitimate illness, • Observance of religious holidays, • Death in the immediate family, or • Other reasons approved by the VHHS administration such as a family emergency, dent-

ist/doctor appointments (with documentation), and verified court appearance (with documen-tation).

CATEGORIES OF ABSENCE/RESOURCES A. Authorized

1. Excused - These include legitimate illnesses (may request a physician’s note), death in the family, religious holiday, homebound/hospitalized instruction and a verified court date. Students may make up missed work by making arrangements with the individual teachers. The final decision for authorizing an absence rests with the administra-tion.

To help maintain accurate excused absence records, we encourage students that have seen a doctor to submit a doctor’s note to their LST.

To help students meet the goal of regular attendance, A LIMIT OF 10 EXCUSED AB-SENCES DUE TO ILLNESS from class in one semester will be imposed. Any ab-sences beyond 10 may require a doctor’s note signed by the doctor. If a doctor’s note is not provided, the absence will be counted as an unexcused absence.

2. Medical Excused – Any illness which is documented by a doctor’s note will not be

included in the 10 days excused absence limit. Please use the VHHS medical excuse form to validate medical excused absences. This form can be found in the Attendance office and on the VHHS webpage. The final decision for authoriz-ing an absence as medically excused rests with the administration.

3. Pre-arranged Absences – If a student knows in advance that he/she will be absent from school one or more days, parents should contact the Attendance Office prior to the date of the absence and the student will pick up a “pre-arranged absence form” or obtain the form via the VHHS website. They must have it signed by their teachers and return it to the Attendance office before they leave. Five days notice of extended pre-arranged absences is requested. Examples include college visita-tions, religious holidays, family wedding, funeral, school related field trip, etc.

Students are strongly encouraged not to take pre-arranged absences immediately prior to or following scheduled school vacations. Should a pre-arranged absence be taken, all work must be made up either the day of their return, prior to their de-parture, or at the discretion of the teacher. Please be aware that the taking of a pre-arranged absence prior to vacation of after vacation may impact your grade in class.

B. Unauthorized 1. Unexcused absence - examples include oversleeping, missing the bus, car problems,

work, employment interviews, transporting people to the airport, staying home to do school work, failure to provide doctor’s note or court verification, etc. Unexcused ab-sences will be given at the discretion of the LST. If a student is unexcused, he/she may not make up daily work and will receive zeros on homework, quizzes and/or tests. There will be no behavior consequences given by the LST.

2. Truancy – Every truancy will result in LST action. Consequences for truancies will be progressive in nature. Parent conferences may be required to resolve truancy issues. Students may be dropped from class due to chronic truancies. A student may not make up work and will receive zeros on any work or tests missed due to a truancy. Excep-tions may be made for major projects. Students are encouraged to do missed assign-ments even though credit will not be given.

C. Resources Available for Attendance Problems The following resources and supportive services are available to students with attendance problems and their parents or guardians: • Conference with school personnel • Special Education assessment • Learning support team alert • Referral to community agencies • Review of academic program • Project PASS/Regional Office of • 8 day letter, 10 day letter Education • Administrative review • Student Assistance Program • Counseling services: school counselors, social workers, and psychologists.

HOMEWORK MAKE UP POLICY DURING ABSENCES Students with authorized absences for one day will be expected to make up the work missed on the day they return to school. For authorized absences of two or more days, students will be given the number of days absent plus one day to make up the work. Please note that it is the intent of this policy to give students a reasonable amount of time to complete work assigned during an absence. It does not apply to long-term assignments or tests. For example, if a student were absent one test day only, then that student would be ex-pected to make up the test on the day he/she returns. More time may be granted at the discre-

tion of the teacher. HOMEWORK REQUESTS DURING ABSENCES Homework assignments may be requested from the student’s teachers after a student has been absent for two days due to illness or a family emergency. Students are encouraged to e-mail their teachers directly. If needed the student or parent may email their individual teachers or call the Learning Support Team Office to make the request. Assignments may be picked up in the LST 24 hours after notification has been received. LEAVING DURING THE SCHOOL DAY Once a student arrives on campus he/she may not leave without permission. If a student must leave the building during the school day for any reason (illness, family emergency, doctor’s appointment, etc.), HE/SHE MUST HAVE PARENT/GUARDIAN AUTHORIZATION AND SIGN OUT BEFORE LEAVING THE BUILDING via the Attendance Office. Failure to follow this pro-cedure may result in an unauthorized absence and/or school consequence. If the student re-turns to school on the same day, HE/SHE MUST SIGN IN UPON RETURN TO THE BUILDING via the Attendance Office. PARTICIPATION IN AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES Students who are absent from school the entire day are not allowed to participate in any prac-tices, competitions or school sponsored activities held after school or during the evening of the day(s) absence. Students must attend at least ½ day (4 periods) in order to participate in any practices, competitions or school sponsored activities held after school or during the evening. These activities include all athletic practices and events, plays, musicals, concerts, club meet-ings, and any other school sponsored activity. If the absence occurs on a Friday, this rule ap-plies to the weekend as well. If the situation arises in which an exception to the above rule is necessary, the Principal or designee will make the final ruling. Student’s who are suspended out of school are not allowed to participate in any practices, competitions or school sponsored activities held after school or during the evening of the day(s) of suspension. If the suspension occurs on and/or includes a Friday, this rule applies to the weekend also. These activities include all athletic practices and events, plays, musicals, con-certs, club meetings, and any other school sponsored activity. A suspension officially ends upon the student’s first day of return to school. If the situation arises in which an exception to the above rule is necessary, the principal or designee will make the final ruling. TARDINESS TO CLASS Tardies are defined as entering a classroom after the bell rings. A student who is more than 15 minutes late without a valid cause will be considered truant and will be given an unauthorized absence. Teachers give a warning to students after the first tardy. After one warning, a student who is tardy is issued a detention by the teacher. A Tardy/Detention form is filled out and given to the student. The student is expected to serve a 30-minute detention. If a student does not serve the original detention within 48 hours he/she is assigned two 30-minute detentions and the stu-dent has 72 hours to serve 2 detentions. If a student fails to serve these detentions, the student is sent to the LST office and the Dean of Students will assign a Saturday detention. Continued tardiness to class may result in intervention and disciplinary consequences. TEMPORARY CARE OF YOUR STUDENT When custodial parents or guardians are out of town, the school requires:

1. The parent/guardian give written authorization to the appropriate LST office stating the name and telephone number of the individual(s) that will be responsible for your son/daughter, while parent/guardian is away.

2. Indicate that this individual(s) has your permission to excuse the student from school should the occasion arise.

3. Parent/guardian contact number. 4. Length of time parent/guardian will be away.

Without the appropriate notification, students may be marked unexcused or truant and conse-quences may be given.

BELL SCHEDULES FOR 2009-2010 Regular First Class Late Start Late Start 1 ...................... 7:55 – 8:45 1 .................... 9:40 – 10:12 1 ............9:40 – 10:16 2 ...................... 8:50 – 9:40 2 .................. 10:17 – 10:49 2 .......... 10:21 – 10:57 3 .................... 9:45 – 10:40 1st class....... 10:54 – 11:14 3 .......... 11:02 – 11:38 4A ................ 10:45 – 11:10 3 .................. 11:14 – 11:46 4A ........ 11:43 – 12:03 4B ................ 11:10 – 11:35 4A ................ 11:51 – 12:11 4B ........ 12:03 – 12:23 5A ................ 11:40 – 12:05 4B ................ 12:11 – 12:31 5A ........ 12:28 – 12:48 5B ................ 12:05 – 12:30 5A ................ 12:36 – 12:56 5B ..........12:48 – 1:08 6A .................. 12:35 – 1:00 5B .................. 12:56 – 1:16 6A ........... 1:13 – 1:33 6B .................... 1:00 – 1:25 6A .................... 1:21 – 1:41 6B ........... 1:33 – 1:53 7A .................... 1:30 – 1:55 6B .................... 1:41 – 2:01 7 ............. 1:58 – 2:34 7B .................... 1:55 – 2:20 7 ...................... 2:06 – 2:38 8 ............. 2:39 – 3:15 8 ...................... 2:25 – 3:15 8 ...................... 2:43 – 3:15 Assembly Half Day Final Exams 1 ...................... 7:55 – 8:39 1 ...................... 7:55 – 8:20 First Exam................ 7:55 – 9:25 2 ...................... 8:44 – 9:28 2 ....................... 8:25 – 850 Second Exam ......... 9:40 – 11:10 3 .................... 9:33 – 10:22 3 ...................... 8:55 – 9:25 Third Exam .......... 11:25 – 12:55 4A ................ 10:27 – 10:49 4 ...................... 9:30 – 9:55 4B ................ 10:49 – 11:11 5 .................. 10:00 – 10:25 5A ................ 11:16 – 11:38 6 .................. 10:30 – 10:55 5B ................ 11:38 – 12:00 7 .................. 11:00 – 11:25 6A ................ 12:05 – 12:27 8 .................. 11:30 – 11:55 6B ................ 12:27 – 12:49 7A .................. 12:54 – 1:16 7B .................... 1:16 – 1:38 8 ...................... 1:43 – 2:27 Assembly ......... 2:32 – 3:15 The LATE START SCHEDULE will be followed on: September 16, 2009 and January 20, 2010. The LATE START/FIRST CLASS SCHEDULE will be followed on: September 23, 2009, October 28, 2009, December 9, 2009, December 17, 2008, December 16, 2009, February 3, 2010, March 10, 2010, and April 14, 2010.

CALCULATOR USE POLICY The Mathematics Department believes that technology is an important tool that enhances stu-dent learning. The TI-84+ graphing calculator is required in all courses, beginning with Algebra I. These calculators are allowed for the ACT and Prairie State tests junior year, the SAT, Ad-vanced Placement tests, and are allowed at most universities. (The models called “Silver” have much more memory and some extra features. They are a bit more expensive and are not re-quired, although they can be used.) Students who purchase other brands or models risk being at a disadvantage in the classroom setting. Students will not be required to purchase another type of calculator. With the ability to link calculators to a computer and update them via the Internet as new fea-tures and operating systems become available, students should rest assured that the calculator will be adequate for their entire high school career. The use of the calculator for an individual course is at the discretion of the teacher. While calcu-lator is an invaluable tool for studying mathematics, there will be times when the instructor deems that a particular topic or skill is more appropriately investigated and assessed without the use of a calculator. Students are expected to demonstrate the utmost personal integrity in using the calculator. Inappropriate uses of the calculator include, but are not limited to: - Playing calculator games during class - Storing formulas, notes, programs, and/or answers unauthorized by the teacher - Sharing calculator during quiz, test, or final exam - Using the calculator on an assessment not intended for calculator use Inappropriate use may result in disciplinary consequences. The teacher reserves the right to take steps to avoid inappropriate use by clearing memory of the calculator, trading a personal calculator for a school calculator, or other measures as necessary.

COLLEGE CAREER INFORMATION CAREER INFORMATION The college search internet based program Naviance, is available in helping students obtain college information in a time efficient manner. Students select areas of interest such as school size, program of study, geographical location, athletic and music programs, etc. The search generates a listing of colleges which meet that criteria. This process makes the college search easier as it helps students focus on a manageable list of schools. Career Cruising and Naviance also offers extensive updated occupational files for students who wish to obtain career information or take a career assessment inventory. In addition to college and career information, Career Cruising and Naviance have an extensive scholarship database to assist students in finding potential scholarship sources. COLLEGE ADMISSION Students considering university admissions should place a heavy emphasis on “college prepara-tory classes” in the classic Liberal Arts sense. Their programs should probably consist of four years of English, four years of mathematics, at least two years of a foreign language, three years of science, and three years of social science. There is no prescription for college admissions. Specific admission requirements fluctuate wide-ly from university to university. College entrance exams (ACT, SAT), class rank, and grade-point average are also heavily considered in the admissions process. Students are encouraged to use Vernon Hills High School’s resources to look up admission requirements prior to selecting high school classes for the following year.

COLLEGE/CAREER RESOURCE CENTER (CRC) The College/Career Resource Center located in Room 1590, houses current college, career and scholarship information for students, parents, faculty and community members. It is open every school day from 7:15 AM to 3:45 PM. The Resource Center will be open on selected evenings throughout the school year from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. Check the CRC website for exact dates. Students can visit the CRC during their full study hall, lunch/study hall period or before and after school. Parents who would like to use the CRC for a period of time during the school day should make arrangements a day in advance by calling 932-2165. COLLEGE DAY/NIGHT PROGRAMS The College of Lake County, in cooperation with the area high schools, will hosts two College Fair programs in October and March for high school students and their parents. An estimated 150 post-high school institutions will participate. This is an excellent opportunity for parents and students to talk with many college representatives. COLLEGE INFORMATION BULLETIN BOARD The CRC maintains a bulletin board, primarily for college information, in the corridor outside of the CRC. The bulletin board usually has posted: • CRC Evening Programs • Weekly college representative schedules • College open house announcements • ACT and SAT test dates • Other college information. COLLEGE OPEN HOUSE PROGRAMS Many colleges sponsor open house programs on their campuses for interested high school juniors and seniors. These programs can be a valuable experience for the student making a college choice. Some colleges, whose distance makes it difficult for the students to visit the campus, have even-ing meetings in the northeast Illinois area for interested students and their parents. Although not as informative as visiting the campus, these meetings can still be more helpful than depending on the printed word for all of one’s information. Any information received about such programs for prospective or interested students is posted on the bulletin board in the corridor outside the CRC Room 1590. COLLEGE REPRESENTATIVES College representatives visit VHHS in the fall and spring to introduce their schools to interested juniors and seniors. These visits are one period and take place in the CRC. The appointments are scheduled in advance and announced in the Daily Bulletin, T.V. and posted on the CRC web-site. Students wishing to attend must obtain a pass from the CRC ahead of time and have it signed by the classroom teacher. Parents are welcome to attend but should call the CRC at 932-2165 to verify correct time and date. OTHER RESOURCES THAT ARE AVAILABLE Other resources in the CRC include college files, catalogs, some college applications, videos to check out, guides to two and four year colleges, test preparation, and military academy informa-tion.

COMPUTER/INTERNET USE POLICY COMPUTER/INTERNET USE POLICY This policy applies to computers throughout the school.

- No gum, food, or drinks are allowed in the computer areas. - To enter LMC/IRC, but not other lab areas when with a teacher. A note to computer users: It is NOT District 128 policy to support a variety of word proces-sors and other software. District 128, has chosen Microsoft products for Windows. Students will use only licensed software provided by District 128. Students may not use District 128 computers to copy software licensed to District 128 or to copy any other software. By using District 128 computers, students agree to adhere to the Federal Copyright Law (Title 17, United States Code) and District 128 policy as they apply to computers and software. Students are not permitted to use District 128 computers for recreational purposes. Student cd’s containing computer games will be confiscated and/or the network directories will be erased. Students may store work files on the network and should not use the local hard drives. District 128 cannot guarantee the integrity of those temporary files on local drives. Students must always log in and out using their individually assigned ID. Proper behavior and attitude are expected at all times. Consequences will follow inappropriate behavior. This may include loss of privilege and contacting local law enforcement authorities. Your cooperation in helping us to maintain our facilities is appreciated. COPYRIGHT POLICY AS IT APPLIES TO COMPUTERS AND SOFTWARE Students are expected to abide by the Federal Copyright Law (Title 17, United States Code) as it applies to copyrighted works, computers, and software. It is the policy of this District: • No student shall use or cause to be used on any District computer any software that is not

owned by the District or has been approved for use by the principal or his representative; • There is to be no copying of data or copyrighted software on any District computer; • Any destruction or obstruction of computers, data, and/or hardware may be met with legal

and/or disciplinary action. INTERNET ACCESS FROM THE DISTRICT 128 NETWORK Every student should have a Technology Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) on file, including signa-tures of the student and parent authorizing permission for the student to use the Internet at school. AUPs are collected as part of school registration. According to our school policy stu-dents are not allowed to participate in any Internet activity without parental permission. A student has authorized use of the District 128, Internet connection on his/her own time outside of an academic class, if the word “Internet” appears in the lower right corner on the student’s ID card. “Internet” on their ID shows that an Acceptable Use Policy is on file, which gives parental authorization to utilize the Internet. INTERNET FILTERING To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used to block or filter Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to inappropriate information. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors. Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled or, in the case of minors, minimized only for research or other lawful purposes. INTERNET SAFETY To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the Community High School District 128 online computer network when using all forms of direct electronic communications. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act,

prevention of inappropriate network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called ‘hacking,’ and other unlawful activities; and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors. TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY: Community High School District 128’s Board of Education, administration, and staff are commit-ted to preparing our students to be successful leaders in a rapidly-changing technologically-oriented society. Access to the District’s technology resources must be for the purpose of education and be con-sistent with the educational mission of the District. Users might have access to information that may not be appropriate to the educational setting through access to other networks and people around the world. District 128 cannot control or be held responsible for all information available on the Internet beyond our school websites. Users wishing to use the school’s computers for Internet access must do so in a way that is consistent with our educational mission and values. The use of District 128 technology is a privilege, not a right. Thus, each user must take full responsibility for his/her actions. In most cases, common sense will guide the user toward ap-propriate use of technology. District 128 will provide technology access to users who have read and agree to abide by this Student Technology Acceptable Use Policy and have written approval from their parent/guardian. Inappropriate use may result in cancellation, limitation, or suspension of access privileges, disciplinary action, academic consequences, and/or legal action. Staff, teachers, and administrators will make all decisions regarding whether a user has violated this authorization. The administration’s decision is final. Users will: • Abide by the computer use policies as listed in the Student Handbook. • Use District 128 technology for appropriate educational purposes only. • Conduct themselves in a positive manner reflecting the values of the student body, staff,

and the community. • Be aware that school personnel have access to all user directories, data, e-mail, web pages

and other files stored on the District system servers and computers and may review files and communications at any time.

• Be responsible for all materials created, sent or received under his/her user account and therefore should not give out their password to anyone.

• Assume that any software is copyrighted. • Efficiently use resources, such as file space, bandwidth and printing. • Respect the privacy of individuals. Users will not: • Cause or contribute to the damage or modification of computer hardware, software or data. • Access, display, or send written or graphic information, which is obscene, inflammatory,

derogatory, or offensive. • Plagiarize or violate copyright laws. • Access the work of others without proper permission. • Use technology to create, send, solicit, or store materials that contain racist, sexist, obscene, or

otherwise objectionable material that would demean, defame, denigrate others for race, religion, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical handicap, gender, etc.

• Use the school’s technology for financial gain, for commercial activity, or for any illegal activ-ity.

• Download and/or install any software without prior approval from the Computer Support Services Department.

Warranties/Indemnification The District makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. The District will not be responsible for any damages suffered including but not limited to loss of data. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the users own risk. The District specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its service. The user agrees to indemnify the District for any losses, costs, or damages, including reasona-ble attorney fees, incurred by the District relating to, or arising out of, any breach of this policy. The items incorporated in this policy are examples of the responsibilities and inappropriate use of technology and should not be construed as all-inclusive. The District therefore, reserves the right to apply the same policy interpretations to items that are not specifically listed.

DISCIPLINE POLICIES

GENERAL BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS Vernon Hills High School recognizes that discipline is necessary in an educational environment. As a First Class school our atmosphere is such that mutual respect, sensitivity, consistency, and fairness exist. • Be present and punctual • Use classroom time effectively • Accept responsibility for classroom activities • Contribute to the classroom environment • Demonstrate a responsible attitude • Respect and maintain the school physical environment • Observe the District 128 Computer/Internet Use Policy • Follow Athletic, Student Activity, and Fine Arts Codes of Conduct • Be prepared and involved • Complete assignments on time • Respect the rights of others • Respond appropriately to staff members

SPECIFIC BEHAVIORAL RULES AND EXPECTATIONS

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY/CHEATING/PLAGIARIASM Cheating is misrepresenting another person’s work as one’s own, or allowing one’s work to be used in such a manner. Plagiarism is using another person’s idea or creative work without giving credit to that person. Students are expected to perform their own work. Plagiarism is using another person’s ideas or creative work without giving credit to that person. Any situation where a student is found to be cheating or plagiarizing will result in no credit for the particular assignment and the LST will be notified of each incidence of cheating. Repeated cheating inci-dents may result in a failing grade for the course and/or LST imposed consequences and may impact participation in school activities/athletics. ACCIDENT REPORTS In case of an accident, no matter how serious it may first appear, it is the student’s responsibility to report this to his/her coach or teacher. An accident report should be filed within 24 hours after an accident. Accident report forms are available in the nurse’s office.

AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR/BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING Using any form or type of aggressive behavior towards someone else and/or urging other stu-dents to engage in such conduct is prohibited. Aggressive behavior includes but is not limited to the use of violence, force, noise, words, gestures, coercion, threats, intimidation, bullying, or other comparable conduct. Bullying, intimidation and harassment diminish a student’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate. Preventing students from engaging in these disruptive behaviors is an important District goal. Accessing and/or distributing at school any written or electronic material, including material from the Internet, that will cause substantial disruption of the proper and orderly opera-tion and discipline of the school or school activities and creating and/or distributing written or electronic material, including Internet material and blogs, that causes substantial disruption to school operations or interferes with the rights of other students or staff members is prohibited and is a violation of school policy and may result in a school consequence.

CAFETERIA REGULATIONS Vernon Hills High School maintains a cafeteria where students can purchase a plate lunch, including milk, for a reasonable price. Those who bring lunches from home can purchase milk and a la carte items if they wish. No outside food (except homemade lunches) can be brought to, delivered to or sold in the cafeteria or classrooms during the school day except for school sanctioned fundraising activities. No food should be taken out of the cafeteria without staff permission. To promote courteous consideration for all involved, students are required to adhere to the following regulations. Violation of rules may result in removal from the cafeteria for a period of time. • Coats are not to be worn in the serving lines. • Have money ready for the cashier and check change immediately. • Respect the rights of others. • Return all trays, dishes, and silverware to designated areas. • Remain in the cafeteria during the lunch period. The lunchroom supervisors are in complete

charge of the cafeteria during the time they are assigned. No food should be open and/or eaten in the hallways or common areas.

• No food should be taken out of the cafeteria without staff permission. • Clean up after yourself. • Do not throw any food or trash. • Any food you handle in the serving line must be purchased. • Theft of food will result in both school and legal consequences. COMMUTING BETWEEN CAMPUSES Those students who must travel between campuses during the regular school day for curricular purposes cannot drive. Commuting students must utilize the bus transportation that will be provided by Vernon Hills High School to commute between campuses. DAILY BULLETIN Bulletins are read during third period every morning. Students are responsible for all information printed in the bulletin. The Daily Bulletin is also available on the website. DAMAGE TO SCHOOL PROPERTY/GRAFFITI A student who damages/vandalizes/defaces school property will be held responsible for those actions. The student may be subject to disciplinary consequences including possibility of restitu-tion, suspension, expulsion, and exclusion from school activities, which may include police in-

volvement. Examples may include toilet papering, spray-painting, etc. DANCE RULES ID Cards 1. A student must show his/her current VHHS ID card at the door even if the student pre-

purchased a dance ticket. 2. If a student does not have an ID card or if it has been lost, report to the LST to purchase a

new card prior to the time of the dance or students may purchase a temporary ID for $5.00 at the door, which will allow the student admittance to the dance, plus the cost of the dance ticket. The student may report to the LST the next school day to obtain their new ID.

Dance Guidelines 1. Everyone who enters a dance must have a photo ID (current student ID for VHHS students

or driver’s license/visiting student ID for guests). No exceptions will be made. 2. Any student who exhibits inappropriate behavior may lose the privilege of attending future

dances. 3. Students may not return to the dance once they leave the building. 4. No glow sticks (oral or handheld) are allowed at any dance. 5. Inappropriate dancing, which includes that which is sexually explicit or dangerous, is prohibited. 6. Hats, backpacks and canes are not allowed at any dances. Guest Pass Guidelines 1. One guest is allowed at the school dances only if accompanied by a current VHHS student

and the dance is not restricted to VHHS students only. Guests must be 20 years old or younger to attend.

2. The guest application process will include the North Suburban Conference dance applica-tion form which includes the signature of the Dean or Assistant Principal from the visiting school and a copy of a photo ID (current school ID or valid driver’s license).

3. In order to bring a guest, the guest pass process must be completed prior to purchasing a ticket to the dance. No guests will be allowed into a dance without a valid guest pass.

4. Guest pass applications will be available in any LST or online prior to the sale of dance tickets.

5. Guests who enter a dance must have an ID (current student ID or driver’s license). No exceptions will be made.

Dance Dates Kick Off Dance (September 12, 2009) – VHHS students only Homecoming Dance (October 10, 2009) – Guest passes required Variety Show (December 3, 2009) – VHHS students only Turnabout (January 30, 2010) – Guest passes required Prom (May 15, 2010) – Guest passes required DISHONESTY Student will be expected to deal honestly with all staff members. Examples of dishonesty that may result in disciplinary consequences include but are not limited to: • unauthorized attendance call, • lying to school officials, • forgery/altering school forms, or • inappropriate possession of school forms / exams.

DRESS CODE Students are expected to present an appearance that does not disrupt the educational process or interfere with the maintenance of a positive teaching/learning climate. Dress and/or grooming which are not in accord with reasonable standards of health, safety, modest, and decency will be considered inappropriate. School policy requires that pants and shorts be worn and fitted at the natural waist line. Low-slung or sagging pants are not permitted. Articles of clothing considered offensive or inappropriate will not be allowed. Examples include but are not limited to hats, sweatbands, bandannas, headgear, and any item of apparel or jewe-lry commonly associated with gangs and undesirable groups. Any clothing with language or pictures conveying express or implied obscenities or sexual vul-garities, promoting the use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco products, inciting violence or other illegal acts, or conveying other messages inconsistent with community values will not be allowed. Appropriateness of school dress will be determined by the school administration. District 128 has a no hat/cap policy that is in effect throughout every District 128 building at all times. Hats are to be taken off when entering buildings and remain off until you leave the build-ing. All Athletic team and senior t-shirts must be approved prior to design-by the building level ad-ministration or the shirts will not be allowed in school or at school activities. The dress code applies throughout the regular school day as well as extra curricular events. Failure to adhere to the dress code policy will be considered insubordinate and are subject to discipline consequences. DRUG/ALCOHOL POLICY (MARIJUANA, CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, PARAPHERNALIA, LOOK-ALIKE) The VHHS drug/alcohol policy is in effect and cumulative throughout the student’s entire high school career. High School District 128 students, found to have consumed any amount, in possession or con-trol, selling or delivering any controlled substance (alcohol, drugs, drug paraphernalia, look-alike or marijuana) while on or off school property during any school sponsored activity that District 128 is involved in, shall be subject to disciplinary action. The disciplinary action could result in a suspension up to ten (10) days and the student will be removed from campus immediately. The local police will also be contacted. In accordance with Board of Education policy, “Any person apprehended selling, distributing or dealing drugs, alcohol, or a controlled substance will be immediately recommended to the Board of Education for expulsion. To facilitate implementation of this policy, the following terms are defined: ALCOHOL/DRUG CONSUMPTION: Any student who has consumed or used ANY AMOUNT of a controlled substance, drugs, or intoxicants, including alcohol, will be considered to be under the influence. POSSESSION: Any student who has possession or control of any alcoholic beverages, mariju-ana, any controlled substance, any other intoxicating substance, any “look-alike” intoxicating substance, or any drug paraphernalia shall be subject to disciplinary action. The term “posses-sion” includes having control, custody, or care, currently or in the past, of an object or sub-stance, regardless of whether or not the item is (a) on the student’s person or (b) contained in another item belonging to, or under the control of, the student, such as in the student’s clothing, backpack, automobile, or (c) in a school’s student locker, desk, or other school property, or (d) any other location on school property or at a school-sponsored event. Controlled substances, as prescribed by a physician, must be stored and administered by the school nurse. A student

may not be in possession of more than one dose of an over the counter medication. LOOK-ALIKES: A “look-alike substance” is a substance which by dosage unit, appearance including color, shape, size, container and/or packaging, markings or by representation made, would lead a reasonable person to believe that the substance is an alcoholic beverage, marijua-na, or a controlled substance. DRUG PARAPHERNALIA: “Drug paraphernalia” means all equipment, products and materials of any kind that are peculiar to, marked for, used in injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing into the human body, marijuana or any controlled substance other than prescribed by a physician. ARTISTIC/WRITTEN REPRESENTATION of drugs or alcohol or drug or alcohol usage is considered inappropriate and disciplinary consequences may occur. USE, POSSESSION, UNDER THE INFLUENCE: Several methods may be utilized by school officials to determine if a student is under the influ-ence. These methods will access the student’s appearance, smell, vital signs, pupil dilation and behavior. A breathalyzer, field sobriety test and other methods may be utilized when deemed necessary. Breathalyzer will be available to confirm school official’s assessment of alcoholic consumption. However, passing the breathalyzer does not eliminate the possible usage of other intoxicants. In some circumstances the school may recommend drug testing within a 24 hour period from an agency approved by District 128 which must be submitted to the Student Assis-tance Program Coordinator. The final determination if the student is under the influence will rest with the administration. 1st Offense: • 5-day out-of-school suspension (3 day out-of-school minimum) • May choose to enroll in and successfully complete a school approved drug education pro-

gram to waive 2 days. Students who fail to successfully complete a school approved drug education program, within 60 calendar days from the date of the parent conference, will au-tomatically serve the remaining days of the consequence.

• Students who choose NOT to attend a program will serve a 5-day out-of-school suspension • Police involvement • Loss of all school privileges such as attending school activities/athletics (excluding class

activities required for credit), lunch release and parking sticker for 30 calendar days • Possible loss of driver education eligibility, if applicable • Parent Conference • Code of Conduct conferences, if applicable. 2nd offense: • 10-day out-of-school suspension • Police involvement • Recommendation for expulsion • Loss of all school privileges such as attending school activities/athletics (excluding class

activities required for credit), lunch release and parking sticker for 60 calendar days. • Parent Conference • Code of Conduct conferences, if applicable. DELIVERY: Any student who delivers, receives delivery of, or attempts/intends to deliver or receive any alcoholic beverage, tobacco, any controlled substance, or any drug paraphernalia shall be sub-ject to disciplinary action. Delivery means a transfer of possession or control to another person whether or not the substance or item is in that person’s immediate presence. Delivery includes,

but is not limited to, any gift, exchange, sale or transfer with or without payment or considera-tion. Delivery of Alcohol, Drugs and/or Paraphernalia: • 10-day out-of-school suspension • Police involvement • Recommendation for expulsion • Loss of privilege to attend all school activities / athletics (excluding class activities required

for credit), lunch release and parking sticker for the remainder of the school year • Parent Conference • Code of Conduct conferences, if applicable. ELECTRONIC DEVICES: • Cellular phones, pagers and all other types of digital communication devices must be turned

off and be unable to receive or send data of any kind. They must be kept out of sight during the school day. Failure to comply with this policy may result in confiscation of the device and possible disciplinary consequences. Electronic entertainment devices are to be turned off and kept out of sight during the school day. The use of cellular phones and picture tak-ing devices are prohibited in bathrooms or locker rooms or any place that a person would have a reasonable expectation of privacy at any time.

• Devices including, but not limited to graphing calculators, personal digital assistants (PDA) and computers are appropriate for various instructional settings. These items may be used in an instructional setting only with teacher consent. A violation may result in disciplinary action.

• Technological devices may not be used to invade the privacy of any student or staff mem-ber, to violate the rights of any student or staff member, or to harass any student or staff member. Actions including, but not limited to, taking an individual’s photo without consent, recording an individual’s voice or image without consent, or storing/accessing personal and/or academic data without consent are prohibited and subject to disciplinary action and possible police involvement.

EXCESSIVE SHOW OF AFFECTION Excessive physical demonstrations of affection are inappropriate in school. This includes but is not limited to: • Excessive kissing • Excessive and inappropriate touching At present, hugging and holding hands are not included under this offense. Excessive displays can be subject to disciplinary consequences. FIGHTING Physical confrontation is a dangerous and inappropriate method for solving problems. Students are expected to solve problems in an appropriate manner. If a student is in a fight or encourag-es others to fight, that student should be prepared to receive disciplinary consequences REGARDLESS of who started it. Pushing, shoving, wrestling, etc. will be considered as fighting regardless of intent. Students involved in fighting, instigating others to fight, intimidating, or harassing other students shall be subject to school consequences including possibility of restitution, conflict resolution, peer mediation, police involvement, suspension and/or recommendation to the Board of Educa-tion for expulsion. GANG AND RELATED ACTIVITY The presence and activities of gangs in schools causes a substantial disruption to school activi-ties and is a threat to the safety and well being of students and school personnel. The Board of

Education desires to keep district schools and students free from threats or harmful influence of any groups or gangs, which advocate drug use, violence, or disruptive behavior. The Board prohibits the presence of gangs and gang-related activity on school premises, in school vehicles or buses, and at school-related activities and events. The Board also prohibits any apparel, jewelry, accessory, notebook drawings, symbols, or manner of grooming, which by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark, or any other attribute denotes membership in a gang, which advocates drug use, violence, or disruptive behavior. Failure to abide by this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. This policy applies to all students, regard-less of whether a student admits involvement or affiliation with a particular group or gang. GROSS MISCONDUCT Gross misconduct is any conduct or behavior including cyberspace/electronic activities which may lead school authorities to forecast/respond to substantial disruption/interference with the daily educational process. Incidents outside school may fall under school jurisdiction provided that a relationship exists between the conduct of the student and the school’s educational func-tion. HANGING POSTERS WITHIN SCHOOL BUILDING ALL posters to be displayed and/or flyers must be approved (initialed and dated) through either of the Assistant Principals or Student Activities Director and can only be placed and/or distributed in authorized areas. The only authorized areas for displaying posters are the Cougar Announcement Boards located throughout the building. Posters are never to be taped to a painted surfaces or wall or glass areas. If hanging multiple copies of the same poster have the Assistant Principal or Stu-dent Activities Director signs the original prior to copying. Posters that are not approved will be taken down. Flyers will be confiscated. All posters/flyers should be in good taste. Posters should be taken down in within 2 days of the event. HARASSMENT Of School Personnel It is the position of the Board of Education that members of the district staff, faculty, administra-tion and Board of Education and their families should be free from vandalism, harassment and/or intimidation perpetrated on school property as well as off school property when the van-dalism, harassment and/or intimidation is in some way school related. Students who are in-volved in such vandalism, harassment and/or intimidation of a district employee or board mem-ber or his/her property, and/or their family shall be subject to disciplinary action by the school, including the possibility of restitution, police involvement, suspension and/or expulsion. Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment of students is prohibited. An employee, District agent, or student engages in sexual harassment whenever he or she makes sexual advances, requests sexual favors, and engages in other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual or sex-based nature, imposed on the basis of sex, that: 1. Denies or limits the provision of educational aid, benefits, services, or treatment; or that

makes such conduct a condition of a student’s academic status; or 2. Has the purpose or effect of:

a. substantially interfering with a student’s educational environment, b. creating an intimidating hostile or offensive educational environment, c. depriving a student of educational aid, benefits, services, or treatment, or d. making submission to or rejection of such conduct the basis for academic decisions

affecting a student. As a result of an investigation the following could occur depending on the degree of the problem and the circumstances: • Verbal warning/reprimand

• Supervised conference between the parties involved to problem solve the situation • Parent conference • Assigned educational component • Suspension • Referral to the board for expulsion • Police involvement Student Harassment Students involved in harassing another student in any way including, but not limited to race, religion, gender, and/or physical appearance shall be subject to school consequences including possibility of restitution, conflict resolution, peer mediation, suspension and/or recommendation to the Board of Education for expulsion. HAZING OF STUDENTS The hazing or “initiation” of students is prohibited by state law and is also forbidden by school regulations whether it occurs within the school, on campus, on the school buses or at any school sponsored activity, or can in any way be related to school. Any infraction of this regulation must be reported at once. School consequences will occur immediately and expulsion is a possible penalty for such behavior whether it occurs within the school, on the campus, on the school buses, or at any school sponsored activity or can in any way be related to school. IDENTIFICATION CARDS As part of the registration process, a student will be issued a student ID card. Students must carry their school ID’s at all times. Student ID cards will be scanned for attendance purposes in a varie-ty of places in the building. It is important that students not fold or abuse their ID cards. If it is not possible to scan an ID card because the card has been mistreated or if the ID card has been de-faced so that the student picture is altered, covered, and/or unidentifiable, the student will be asked to replace the card. Students must have an ID to gain admittance in the following situations: • Attendance at after school activities (i.e. dances, athletic events) • Senior lunch release • Library Media Center (LMC) • Instructional Resource Center (IRC) • Study Halls • Detention • Work release • To purchase lunch • To check out library materials • Other miscellaneous needs The student must surrender this card upon request by any faculty or staff member or by the school bus driver. Failure to carry this student ID card may result in disciplinary action. Students may purchase replacement ID cards. No Temporary ID Cards will be issued to students who lose, misplace, or forget school ID’s. Disciplinary consequences may result if a student does not follow the above procedures. INSUBORDINATION/GROSS INSUBORDINATION Students are expected to obey reasonable directions of school employees. Students who refuse to identify themselves to any school personnel are guilty of insubordination. Refusal to

comply with any reasonable directive will also be considered insubordination and disciplinary action will be taken. Chronic or repeated offenses of disobedience will not be tolerated and will be considered gross insubordination. INTERNET A Technology “Acceptable Use Policy” signed by student and parents must be on file in order to use the Internet. Students will be subject to consequences for violation of the policy. See Technology Acceptable Use Policy. Please be aware that internet sites constitute public domain and students may be held respon-sible for the content and subject to school disciplinary action. LOCKERS Student Locker: Each student is assigned a school locker. School lockers are the property of District 128 and at no time does the district relinquish ownership. Lockers are not to be shared and locker combinations should be kept confidential. The school is not responsible for lost or sto-len property including personal property, textbooks, etc. The student assigned to the locker is responsible for the locker and ALL of its contents. ALL LOCKERS ARE SUB-JECT TO SEARCH BY SCHOOL OFFICIALS. Lock all lockers at all times. Locker combi-nations should not be pre-set to open. Physical Education Locker: Each student is assigned a physical education locker. Locks will be issued by the physical welfare staff. Students should lock their lockers to prevent theft. Students must lock all valuables inside their lockers i.e. purses, calculators, money, IPOD, etc. Damaged/Vandalized/Broken Lockers Students may be assessed a fine for damaged lockers. If a locker is damaged, broken, vanda-lized, please report it to Security. Please do not place stickers inside lockers. A maintenance or cleaning fee for inappropriate use may be charged. Masking tape is acceptable. No unautho-rized locks/locking mechanisms should be placed on hallway lockers. LOITERING Loitering in corridors, washrooms, and the parking lot is prohibited. A student must be in assigned areas during school hours. Loitering in the hallways during class can disrupt learning for other students. Students should leave the building or report to a resource center after their last class. Students need to have a valid pass to be in the hallways except during passing pe-riods. At the conclusion of the school day students are expected to leave the building in a timely fa-shion unless they are participating in a school sponsored activity. Students waiting for rides must wait in the front foyer. Students will not be allowed to wander the building. MESSAGES/DELIVERIES TO STUDENTS Messages to students will be delivered only on an emergency basis when possible. Deliveries will be taken to the LST office and students will be responsible for picking them up. If items are not picked up in two days, they will be placed in the Lost and Found. Money, wallets, purses, I-Pods, cell phones, and other items of value should not be dropped off. The school cannot assume re-sponsibility for any items dropped off. Please take care of appointment times, rides, lunches, homework, projects, etc. prior to the start of the school day. PASSES • If students receive a pass to report to a school official, report to that person promptly. Fail-

ure to report will be considered as insubordination and is subject to disciplinary conse-

quences. • Delivery, alteration, possession, etc. of inappropriate passes will result in disciplinary conse-

quences. • Students will need to have a valid pass in order to be in the hallways except during passing

periods. PHYSICAL INTERVENTION POLICY Faculty and staff may appropriately touch students when they are administering first aid, break-ing up fights, protecting themselves, moving through a crowd to address an emergency, employ-ing passive restraint to a behaviorally, disruptive student, or when necessary to protect the stu-dent or other individuals from bodily harm. Corporal punishment, defined as the use of force to inflict pain as a punishment, is expressly forbidden. Sufficient physical force may be used when necessary to protect the student or other individuals from bodily harm and to protect property. SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER – DETECTIVE JIM KOCH Vernon Hills High School has a sworn police officer assigned to duty in our building during the school year. This position is designed to establish and maintain relationships with students, faculty and parents. The Officer will serve as an educational liaison between the school, com-munity and the local police department in numerous matters such as drug/gang awareness, safety and good citizenship. In addition, the Officer may enforce state laws, village ordinances, and applicable school rules and policies. SEARCHES – PHYSICAL INTERVENTION POLICY Individual Searches can be conducted if “reasonable suspicion” is determined to protect the health, safety or welfare of the District, its employees and students, without notice or consent of the student and without a search warrant. General For the protection of out students and to maintain order and security in the schools, school au-thorities may inspect and search places and areas such as lockers, desks, parking lots, and other school property and equipment owned or controlled by the school, as well as personal effects left in those places and areas by students without notice to or the consent of the student and without a search warrant. As a matter of public policy, the General Assembly finds that students have no reasonable expectation of privacy in these places and areas or in their per-sonal effects left in these places or areas. School authorities may request the assistance of law enforcement officials for the purpose of conducting inspections and searches of lockers, desks, parking lots, and other school property and equipment owned or controlled by the school for illegal or dangerous substances or materials, including searches conducted through the use of specially trained dogs. If a search conducted in accordance with this Section produces evi-dence that the student has violated or is violating the law, local ordinance, or the school’s poli-cies or rules, then such evidence may be seized by school authorities and disciplinary action may be taken. School authorities may also turn over such evidence to law enforcement authori-ties. The provisions of this subsection apply in all school districts, including special charter districts and districts organized under Article 34. (Illinois School Code) SECURITY CAMERAS All persons that are on District 128 campuses or in District buildings are subject to video surveil-lance. At the time a person chooses to leave the building, they must exit the building using the west door. District 128 utilizes security cameras throughout its buildings and campuses. SENIOR LUNCH RELEASE PRIVILEGE Seniors will be given the responsibility of choosing to leave Vernon Hills High School during their

scheduled lunch period. On half days students with lunch release may not leave the building. Seniors must have written parent/guardian permission and must meet the following criteria in the previous marking period in order to be eligible for the current marking period: no truancies in any classes, no major interventions (Saturday School, In or Out-of-School Suspensions), passing all classes, pay all fees and fines. Seniors who do not meet these criteria may not be issued lunch release until the following marking period and will be scheduled into a lunch/study hall. Violations during lunch release will result losing the privilege. Violations may include but not be limited to the following: reckless driving, community complaints, any type of police involve-ment/criminal activity and driving students without the lunch release off campus during lunch. Any violations will result in the loss of senior lunch release for marking period. A student may reapply for the following marking period. SMOKING/USE OF TOBACCO/POSSESSION OF TOBACCO AND/OR TOBACCO PRODUCTS Vernon Hills High School is a smoke free campus. Smoking is not permitted on school grounds. Smoking, use of tobacco, possession of tobacco and/or tobacco products on school property, on a school bus or traveling between buildings is prohibited at all times. This rule applies not only for the regular school day but also for all school functions on or off school property. Students who violate the smoking/tobacco rule are subject to disciplinary action outlined below: 1st Offense • 3-day consequence • Students may choose to enroll in and successfully complete a school approved tobacco

education program to waive 2 days. Students who fail to successfully complete a school approved tobacco education program, within 60 calendar days of the offense, will automati-cally serve the remaining days of the consequence.

• Loss of privilege to attend all school activities / athletics (excluding class activities required for credit), and lunch release, for 30 days.

• Police involvement • Code of Conduct conferences, if applicable. 2nd Offense • 5-day consequence • Loss of privileges to attend all school activities / athletics (excluding class activities required

for credit), lunch release for 60 calendar days. • Police involvement • Parent conference • Code of Conduct conferences, if applicable. Further violations of the smoking, use or possession of tobacco policy will be subject to further disciplinary action including suspension. The Village of Vernon Hills, Local Ordinance No. 90-39 states that it is unlawful for any minor under the age of 18 to possess any tobacco product within the corporate limits of the village. A violation of this ordinance may result in fines and/or an arrest. STUDY HALLS Students should use assigned study hall time constructively, either in the study hall or by seek-ing assistance in other resource areas. They can report directly to the other resource areas with their ID card to be admitted. After students have reported to a study hall, they may NOT be sent to a resource area on a pass. Any abuse of these privileges will result in disciplinary action. Students must be accountable to their study hall teachers. Failure to do this will result in deten-

tions. TAILGATING Tailgating activities are NOT allowed at any school activity. THEFT Unauthorized removal or possession of personal property belonging to students, staff, or the school will result in disciplinary action, which may include restitution, police action, suspension, and/or recommendation for expulsion to the Board of Education. In case of stolen property, immediately report the theft to staff, the LST, and security and com-plete a Theft Report documenting the incident. Please note that District 128 does not provide theft or loss of property insurance and can not reimburse students for such losses. District 128 advises students not to bring valuables or large amounts of money to school. Finally, students should always lock and secure valuables, avoid sharing locker combinations with other individu-als, and never preset locker combinations. THREATS Students (regardless of intent) threatening to harm others or damage school property may be reported to the police and subject to disciplinary action including possible expulsion from school. This may include threats made through the use of communication devices, including but not limited to, telephones, written, verbal, text message, e-mail, Internet, and threats that may be indicated through body language. TRESPASSING Vernon Hills High School is posted with “No Trespassing” signs. Trespassers will be referred to the police. VANDALISM A student who damages/vandalizes/defaces school property will be held responsible for their actions. The student may be subject to disciplinary consequences including possibility of restitu-tion, suspension, expulsion, or exclusion from school activities, including, but not limited to the graduation ceremony. In addition, these actions may result in police involvement. VISITORS Parents/Visitors must check in upon arrive into the building at the Front Security desk. A driver’s license or government-issued photo ID must be presented. A name badge will be generated and must be worn throughout the time of the visit. This name badge must be surrendered to either security location upon exiting the building. For the protection of students and school property, visitors are subject to administrative/Dean’s approval. All visitors must secure a permit to enter the building. Advance arrangements must be made for student visitors with the administration. Students wishing to bring an out-of-town visitor to school must submit a written request, signed by their parent/guardian, and complete the LST visitor request form signed by his/her teachers and Team Leader. Visitor must live 100+ miles away from VHHS. The request and form must be completed at least one day in advance of the visit. Students with student visitors must bring the visitor to the Learning Support Team Office, Rooms 1540/1560, at the start of the visit, before class begins. Visitor requests may be verified by a telephone call to the parent/guardian. WEAPONS/DANGEROUS OBJECTS Possession or use of explosives, firearms, knives (including pocket knives), other dangerous weapons or instruments as well as look-alike weapons or instruments shall be prohibited on school buses, in school buildings, on school grounds, or while attending all other school spon-sored activities in which VHHS is a participant. If any of the above items are found, the items will be confiscated and students found to be in violation of this policy shall be disciplined in ac-

cordance with Article 13-A of the Illinois School Code. The board may expel a student for a definite period of time not to exceed 2 calendar years, as determined on a case-by-case basis. A student who is determined to have brought a weapon to school, any school sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event which bears a reasonable relationship to school shall be expelled for a period of not less than one year, except that the expulsion period may be modified by the board on a case by case basis. For purposes of this Section, the term “weapon” means possession, use, control or transfer or storage of any object which may be used to cause bodily harm, including but not limited to a weapon as defined by Section 921 of Title 18, United States Code, firearm as defined in Section 1.1 or the Fire-arm Owners Identification Act, use of weapon as defined in Section 24-1 of the Criminal Code, knives, guns, firearms, rifles, shotguns, brass knuckles, billy clubs, or “look-alikes” the-reof. Such items as baseball bats, pipes, bottles, locks, sticks, pencils, and pens may be consi-dered weapons if used or attempted to be used to cause bodily harm. Expulsion or suspension shall be construed in a manner consistent with the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Educa-tion Act. A student who is subject to suspension or expulsion as provided in this Section may be eligible for a transfer to an alternative school program in accordance with Article 13-A of the Illinois School Code. The provisions of this subsection (d) apply in all school districts, includ-ing special charter districts and districts organized under Article 34.

CONSEQUENCES OF INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR If students violate the rules of Vernon Hills High School, certain consequences may follow. The specific consequences will be determined on the basis of the severity and/or frequency of the offense. Whenever a student is disciplined, the student and/or his/her parents/guardian have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process may range from a conference with the building level principal to a formal hearing conducted by the Board of Education. Please recognize that rules apply while students are in school or on school grounds, commuting between Libertyville and Vernon Hills campuses, on a school bus or in transit between school and home, during school-sponsored field trip, while in attendance at extra-curricular activities (home and away) in which VHHS is a participant and during free time during the school day including senior lunch release. No listing of rules can be all-inclusive. Students will be subject to disciplinary action anytime behavior is disruptive, illegal, or inconsiderate of others. Administrative Review - A student may be referred for Administrative Review when various interventions have not been successful in altering behavior. The Administrative Review Team will develop an individual plan for each student referred. Specific problems and consequences will be addressed. Alternative Educational Programs - These include Alternative to Suspension Program and on or off campus educational programs designed to meet the needs of the individual students. Confiscation of Illegal/Inappropriate Items - Illegal/inappropriate items will be taken from student. Detentions - Detentions may be assigned by a teacher or LST. A student will be given twenty-four hours notice prior to the detention in order to make appropriate arrangements. Detentions may be served from 7:15 AM to 7:45 AM or from 3:25 PM to 3:55 PM. A student will not be admitted to serve detentions without paperwork, without student ID, or if he/she is tardy. Disciplinary Conference - Conference with Dean of Students and LST members may be held in response to student conduct issues. Expulsion - Expulsion is a school board action that may result in a student not being allowed to attend Vernon Hills High School for up to two (2) years. Loss of Privilege - Students may forfeit privileges for non-compliance with school rules. Privi-leges that may be forfeited include but are not limited to:

• Bus Riding • Parking • Resource Areas Access • Lunch Release • Work Release • PE Exemption • Cafeteria • Internet/Computer Use • Attendance at school activities/functions in which VHHS is a participant Police Referral - Police referrals may be made for students who violate rules that are also viola-tions of local and state ordinances. Removal from Class - A teacher may temporarily remove a student from class who is exhibiting inappropriate behavior. A student who is removed from class must report to the LST. Restitution - Payment for damages, etc. Saturday School - Saturday school provides an alternative to out-of-school suspension or supervised study for certain school infractions. Saturday detention hours are 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM or 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM at the discretion of the Dean of Students. Supervised Study - A student is removed from the normal school routine. A student may be as-signed any number of hours or days to this quiet study area. No academic penalty accompanies this consequence. Suspensions (Out-of-School) - Students may be assigned out-of-school suspensions, which do carry an academic penalty. Students will be assigned zeros for daily class work and quizzes and may not make up assignments except for major tests/projects. Students are encouraged to do missed assignments even though credit will not be given. Students are not allowed to be on campus or attend school activities while on suspension.

FIRST CLASS The First Class initiative is embraced by the entire school community and is intended to make Vernon Hills High School an enjoyable place in which to learn and work. Students, faculty, and support staff will work together toward reaching the following goals: The four goals of FIRST CLASS: 1. Treating others with dignity and respect. 2. Embracing our diversity. 3. We Resolving conflict through reflection and discussion. 4. Communicating and acting in a confident manner . 5. Demonstrating pride in our school.

LEARNING SUPPORT TEAMS COUNSELING SERVICES • High school course planning, post-high school educational planning, post-high school career

planning with college representatives • Personal/social concerns • Testing – high school placement tests, college admissions tests • Referrals – social worker, psychologist, other agencies, public and private • Enrollment – incoming freshmen, transfer students during the school year, adjusting student

schedules COUNSELOR APPOINTMENTS There is an appointment sheet next to each counselor’s door. In order to reserve a specific time to see a particular counselor, the student should enter his/her name on that appointment sheet. If a student must miss a class to see a counselor, prior arrangements should be made with the class-room teacher and the counselor. Parents wanting to contact a counselor may do so by calling the Learning Support Team Office.

LEARNING SUPPORT TEAM FUNCTIONS (Alphabetical breakdowns are subject to change) The attendance, discipline, and guidance functions have been combined into two Learning Support Teams. Learning Support Teams consist of a dean of students, counselors, and a social worker. They are supported by a nurse, student assistance program coordinator, school resource officer, and office personnel. Learning Support Teams work together to help students take advantage of all the programs the school has to offer. Functions of attendance, counseling, social work, and behavioral interventions are all part of the Learning Support Teams’ responsibility. A close working relationship between the teacher, the coordinators and teacher leaders, the administration, the student, and the parent(s) will help each student best meet his/her potential both educationally and as a productive, well-adjusted member of society.

REGISTRATION BIRTH CERTIFICATE Students enrolling in District 128 for the first time must present a copy of his/her birth certificate in order to register for classes. Birth certificate verification is necessary for driver education, athletic eligibility, and work permits. Students who have attended school in the feeder schools to Vernon Hills High School need not present a birth certificate. COMPULSORY PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS/IMMUNIZATIONS The Illinois School Code, Section 27-8.1, requires all students entering ninth grade or transfer-ring from another school, irrespective of grade, to present a physical examination with proof of immunization and diabetes screening. Evidence of completed and acceptable immunizations must be given by a physician by entering dates (months and year) in the appropriate space on physical examination cards. Students not in compliance with the law will be excluded from school unless all required information is submitted by October 10, 2008. Failure to present the physical exam and proof of immunization will result in exclusion from academic classes and all school activities until health records are brought into compliance. Dental examinations are strongly recommended. All students who intend to participate in sports, cheerleading, or Pom-Pons must complete an Athletic Permit Card and have a physical examination and file evidence of this with the Athletic Director’s Office prior to participation in tryouts, practices, or competitions. Freshmen may use their ninth grade physical exam for one year from the date of examination. They must also have the Athletic Permit Card and Code of Conduct signed and completed. It is recommended that freshmen who plan to participate in sports get their freshman physicals after June 7, 2009. (Bring the Athletic Permit Card to your doctor so that he/she may sign it.) Athletic Permit Cards may be picked up in the Athletic Office, Room 1110. If an athlete’s physical expires during a sports season, he/she must get another physical in order to complete the season. FEES For the 2009-10 school year registration will be processed by mail. Students who have met their financial obligations and returned other necessary registration materials by Thursday, July 16, 2009, will receive their schedule, ID card, locker number and combination, and parking permits (juniors and seniors) during the first week of August. Students who do not return their registra-tion materials by Thursday, July 16, 2009, will be billed a $25.00 late registration fee. Basic Fees ..............$160.00 (A $25.00 late fee will be assessed if payment is not received by July 16, 2009).

ADDITIONAL FEES 2D Intro to Art .......................................... $20.00 Driver Education .................................. $195.00 3D Intro to Art .......................................... $20.00 (does not include state driver license fee) 3D Studio/Ceramics................................. $20.00 Engineering Design/CAD ...................... $10.00 Accounting I ............................................ $10.00 Foods I ................................................. $20.00 Accounting II & II Honors ......................... $10.00 Graphic Communications I & II............... $20.00 Advanced Foods ..................................... $20.00 Interactive Media ................................... $10.00 AP Computer Science ............................. $20.00 International Languages ........................ $25.00 Advanced Tech Drawing .......................... $20.00 Intro to Business ................................... $10.00 AP Portfolio ............................................. $40.00 Keyboarding .......................................... $10.00 Architectural Design/CAD ........................ $10.00 Lifeguard Training ................................. $50.00 Business Internship ................................. $10.00 Management ......................................... $10.00 Business Math ........................................ $10.00 Marketing .............................................. $10.00 Ceramics/3D ........................................... $20.00 Painting Studio ...................................... $20.00 Concert Choir .......................................... $10.00 Photography I ........................................ $25.00 Comp Arts Studio .................................... $20.00 Photography Studio ............................... $25.00 Computer Applications............................. $10.00 Specialty Foods..................................... $20.00 Computer Science Honors ....................... $10.00 Sports & Entertainment Marketing .......... $10.00 Concert Band .......................................... $10.00 Symphonic Band ................................... $10.00 Concert Orchestra ................................... $10.00 Symphony Orchestra (Strings) ............... $10.00 Consumer Management .......................... $20.00 Technology Exploration ......................... $10.00 Cougar Choir........................................... $10.00 Treble Choir .......................................... $10.00 Design: Fashion Interiors ......................... $10.00 Wind Ensemble ..................................... $10.00 Digital Photo............................................ $25.00 Woodworking I ...................................... $25.00 Draw/Printmaking Studio ......................... $20.00 Woodworking II ..................................... $25.00

MISCELLANEOUS FEES Athletic Pass - Family .............................. $50.00 Parking Permit - Replacement ................. $2.00 Athletic Fee – Per Sport ........................... $40.00 Parking Permit - Temporary ..................... $1.00 Gym Lock - Replacement .......................... $4.00 Student Activity Pass** ........................... $75.00 ID Card – Replacement .............................. $5.00 Transcript Release ........................... no charge Parking Permit ...................................... $130.00 Admission to Events: Adults: $5.00, Students: $3.00, Seniors: $1.00 **Student Activity Pass includes yearbook, regular home football games, regular home bas-ketball games, regular home wrestling matches, 2 plays (winter and spring) and music depart-ment concerts. Student Activity Tickets are not valid for IHSA competitions or invitationals. BASIC FEE REFUNDS If a student withdraws from VHHS before the start of second semester, completes the withdraw-al form and meets all of their financial obligations, the student will be entitled to receive a refund of ½ of the basic fee. If a student withdraws after the beginning of second semester, no refund will be granted.

BASIC FEE WAIVER If a family needs to have the basic fee waived due to financial or extenuating circumstances, the principal must be contacted in writing. The basic fee waiver cannot be used for athletic fees, class fees, parking fees, or activity ticket. CLASS FEES Students enrolled in a class with a fee will be billed at the end of the second week of each semester. During the 2009-2010 school year, first semester classes will be billed Friday, Sep-tember 4, 2009. Second semester classes will be billed Monday, February 1, 2010. • If a student decides to drop a class after the billing date, no refund will be processed. • If school personnel request a schedule change for a student who registered for and has paid

for a class that has a class fee, a refund will be processed. PARKING FEE REFUNDS If a student withdraws from VHHS before the start of second semester, completes a withdrawal form, meets all financial obligations, and returns an issued parking sticker, the student will be entitled to receive a refund of ½ of the parking fee. The student must request the refund at the time of withdrawal. STUDENT FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS Fees – Student fees are defined as any charge related to basic registration fees, class fees or late registration fees. Fines – Student fines are defined as any charge related to library books (late or damaged), textbooks (missing or damaged), classroom equipment or materials (missing or damaged), athletic equipment (missing or damaged), or other charges incurred. All students must pay their fees, fines and meet other financial obligations incurred while in attendance at VHHS. Money collected will first be applied to the student’s outstanding fee charges before money will be applied to athletics, activity tickets, parking stickers, and summer school enrollment, or fines incurred. Students who have not met all of their financial obligations from previous years will have the following withheld:

Participation in athletic contests Summer School enrollment Activity ticket Completion (Blue) slip in Driver’s Education Parking sticker Senior Lunch Release

• All school fees and outstanding fines must be paid before a student’s official transcript will be sent.

• Seniors who have not met all of their financial obligations (fees and fines) will not receive their graduation tickets.

• Seniors who have outstanding fines, will not be allowed to participate in commencement exer-cises.

INSURANCE: DISTRICT STATEMENT REGARDING STUDENT INSURANCE The school district assumes no responsibility for payment of medical expenses in case of any injury to any student while in or on school property or in connection with any school sponsored activity. The Board of Education encourages parents to seek a reliable insurance company to provide accident insurance protection for their child against injuries sustained while in school or while en-route to or from school. Exact insuring conditions and limitations should be discussed with your insurance provider.

PHOTOGRAPHY STATEMENT (USE OF STUDENT PHOTOS) Use of Student Photos: Community High School District 128 staff members regularly take pho-tographs and video footage of students throughout the school year as they participate in school activities, events, and during the regular school day. The photos are used in District 128 publi-cations (Paw Prints, The 128 Report, the District’s Annual Report, etc.), promotional materials, student publications (newspapers, yearbooks), and on the District 128 web site. Photos are sometimes shared with local newspapers. Video footage is used for a variety of multimedia presentations. With the exception of the District 128 web site, photos are published along with the names of students pictured. Unless a form has been signed indicating that a student should not be photographed or videotaped, it is understood that District 128 has permission to photo-graph a student and use the photos as detailed above. “Opt Out” forms are available in the Registrar Office at VHHS. RESIDENCE Students under the age of twenty-one (21), who have completed eighth grade and who reside with their parents or legally appointed guardians within the boundaries of Vernon Hills High School are entitled to enroll at Vernon Hills High School. Any student not living with his/her natural or adopted parents in the district must present proof of residence and legal guardianship papers from a court of law prior to enrolling. For details, con-tact Sue Butler at 932-2267. Any other student seeking admission must apply to the Board of Education for special permis-sion and if approved, must pay the full tuition cost (as outlined by the Illinois School Code). RESIDENCY/PERSONAL INFORMATION CHANGES Any time a student changes residence for any reason, regulations require that this information be reported to the office immediately. Any changes that affect the student’s school records or school status should be reported to the LST office immediately. This would include changes such as: marriage, family status, telephone number, emergency contacts, and other information of this type. RESIDENCY – PROOF OF All students at Vernon Hills High School may be required to present clear proof of legal residen-cy within the boundaries of Vernon Hills High School. This may be verified through two of the following and must contain the parent/guardian name and address. Acceptable documents include: 1. Legal Rental Contract 3. Fully Executed Closing Papers (not a contract to purchase) 2. Current Utility Bill 4. Property Tax Information SEX OFFENDER NOTIFICATION As required by Public Act 94-004 public information regarding sex offenders is available at www.isp.state.il.us/sor. WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURE The withdrawal procedure is as follows: 1. In the case of transferring, the student must bring a note to the LST Office signed by a par-

ent. The note should include the new address and, if possible, what school he/she will be attending.

2. The student must pick up a withdrawal card from the LST Office and have it signed by all necessary people (this includes the student’s counselor).

3. The student must return all books to the teachers who issued them. 4. The student must pay any fines or fees assessed. 5. Complete parental permission statement for release of school records must be on file.

No student can legally or officially be withdrawn from the school roll unless he or she complies fully with this withdrawal procedure. Transferring students will have their school records sent to the next school only after meeting these responsibilities.

RESOURCE CENTERS 1. Students may report directly to the Library Media Center or the Instructional Re-

source Center instead of their assigned study hall. 2. No student will be admitted without an ID, which will be scanned for attendance. 3. Students should make good use of their time and resources. INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGE LAB (ROOM 1210) • For use by students presently enrolled in a foreign language class or ESL class. • Computers are available with Internet access and software programs that enhance student

learning of a foreign language • An International Language Lab Aide is available before and after school to help students

(lab hours 7:15 AM – 3:30 PM). INSTRUCTIONAL RESOURCE CENTER (IRC - ROOM 2400) • The Instructional Resource Center is open from 7:00 AM – 3:15 PM on school days. • Computer programs include: Internet access, all Microsoft programs, calculator links, and

other specialized school programs. • Students may work on school activities with other students in a quiet, effective manner. • Students may obtain a pass from their study hall teacher/monitor for math help. • Inappropriate behavior will result in dismissal from the IRC. LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER (LMC - ROOM 2500) • The Library Media Center is open from 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM on school days. • Computer programs include: VHHS online catalog, Internet access, many academic data-

bases, all Microsoft programs, and access to the online catalogs of local public libraries. • The LMC is staffed by one certified librarian and four educational support personnel. • Teachers are encouraged to bring classes into the library for research, computer-related

assignments, and for leisure reading. • The LMC is a quiet area of study. • Students may obtain a pass from their study hall teacher/monitor for Write Place assistance. • Inappropriate behavior will result in dismissal from the LMC. PASSWORDS TO ACCESS LMC ONLINE DATABASES Connect to http://vhhscougars.org/, library. No usernames or passwords are needed while at school. Use these log-ins to continue your research off–campus. Database Name Username Pass-

word • ABC—CLIO American History, American Government, vernonhills cougar State Geography, World History Ancient, World History Modern, World Geography • AccessScience vernonhills cougar • CIAO-Columbia International Affairs Online vernonhills cougar

• C.Q. Researcher vernonhills cougar • Discovery Education Streaming vernonhills cougar • Ebsco Student Research Center, Auto Repair Reference vernonhills cougar Center, ERIC, Literary Reference Center, NoveList, Points of View Reference Center, Professional Development Center • Encyclopedia Britannica Online, Annals of America vernonhills cougar • Facts on File History Database Center, Science Online, vernonhills cougar World Atlas • First Search WorldCat, Wilson SelectPlus, Medline, 100-288-210 cougar

ABI/Inform • Gale Virtual Reference Library ebooks none cougar • Newsbank Chicagoland newspapers vernonhills cougar • Proquest Historical Newspapers (New York Times, Chicago vernonhills cougar Tribune, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal), Culturegrams, SIRS Researcher, SIRS Government Reporter, SIRS Webselect vernonhills cougar Salem History vernonhills cougar • Thomson-Gale History Resource US, Literature none cougar Resource Center, Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center, American Decades Primary Sources LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER CHECKOUT PROCEDURES • Students must show their school ID to check out a book. • Books circulate for three (3) weeks. Reference and reserve materials circulate overnight

only. • Back issues of magazines may be checked out for three weeks. • Fines for overdue materials range from $.10 per day for books to $1.00 per day for overdue

reference and reserve materials, up to a student maximum of $5.00 per incident. • If materials are lost, the cost of the items must be paid plus accumulated fines. THE TESTING CENTER (ROOM 2400-IRC) • The Testing Center hours are:

Regular Day………………..7:00 AM – 3:15 PM Half Day…………………...7:00 AM – 12:00 PM Late Start Day……….……...8:45 AM – 3:15PM

• The Testing Center is a quiet, supervised room where students can make up a test or quiz missed in class.

• Students IDs are required. Students are responsible to come to the Testing Center pre-pared to take their tests before a specified date.

• Students may come to the Testing Center anytime before school or during study halls. No appointments are needed.

• The Testing Center is staffed by one full-time facilitator. • Teachers submit missed tests with detailed instructions to the Testing Center. THE WRITE PLACE (LMC – ROOM 2500) • The Write Place is open from 7:00 AM – 3:45 PM on school days. • The Write Place is a quiet resource area staffed by an English teacher who will provide

one-on-one help with any stage of the writing process (brainstorming, organization, draft-

ing, revision, proofing, etc.) for any class. • Students can receive help on work other than term papers; written pieces such as college

application essays, poems and speeches are also encouraged. • Students may come in to reserve a meeting time, or students may wait for an open confe-

rence slot.

SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES District 128 provides a free appropriate public education to high school aged students who have vision, hearing, language, physical, learning and/or emotional disability and are determined to be eligible to receive special education services. Special education programs and services are those which are not available through the general education curriculum and which an eligible student requires in order to benefit from his/her edu-cation. Students suspected of having a disability which may require special education services, should be referred to their guidance counselor for a review. Administrative procedures for case study evaluation, determination of eligibility for special education services and placement into special education programs/services have been developed. They are available by contacting the District 128 Special Services Director, Ms. Kathleen Witt, by email at kathleen.witt@d128.org or telephone at (847) 327-7087.

AMERICANS WITH DISABLITIES REHABILITATION ACT (SECTION 504)

District 128 provides educational accommodations to students who have a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities and who have been found eligible to receive ADA, Section 504, accommodations by the High School District. Students who have a disability which requires ADA, Section 504, accommodations should contact their guidance counselor to receive the forms necessary to begin the process for requesting a 504 plan. In determining a student to be eligible for a 504 plan while in high school, it must be demon-strated that the student’s impairment significantly impacts their academic functioning. A 504 plan will be specific to the academic situation the student is in at the time of the request and will provide reasonable accommodations to insure the student’s safety and academic functioning while attending school and school activities. The high school will conduct 504 case study evalu-ations to determine the necessity for the development of a 504 plan of accommodations. Administrative procedures for a 504 case study evaluation, determination of eligibility for a 504 plan and the development of a 504 plan have been developed. They are available by contacting the District 128 Special Services Director, Kathleen Witt, by email at kathleen.witt@d128.org or tele-phone at (847) 327-7087.

STUDENT RECORDS STUDENT RECORDS Student Records Defined A student record is any record that contains personally identifiable information or other informa-tion that would link the document to an individual student if it is maintained by the District, except records kept: (1) in a school staff member’s sole possession destroyed not later than the stu-dent’s graduation or permanent withdrawal, and not accessible or revealed to any other person except a temporary substitute teacher, or (2) by law enforcement officials working in the school. Rights of Access to Student Records The District maintains two types of school records for each student: a permanent record and a

temporary record. These records may be integrated. • The Student Permanent Record consists of basic identifying information, academic transcript,

attendance record, accident and health reports, scores received on the Prairie State Achieve-ment Examination, information pertaining to release of this record, honors and awards, and school-sponsored activities and athletics. No other information shall be placed in the perma-nent record. The permanent record shall be maintained for at least 60 years after the student graduated, withdrew, or transferred.

• The Student Temporary Record consists of all information not required to be in the Student Permanent Record including family background, intelligence and aptitude scores, psycho-logical reports, achievement test results, including scores on the Illinois Standards Achievement Test, participation in extracurricular activities, honors and awards, teacher anecdotal records, disciplinary information, specifically including information regarding an expulsion, suspension, or other punishment for misconduct involving drugs, weapons, or bodily harm to another. Special education files, verified reports or information from non-educational persons, verified information of clear relevance to the student’s education, in-formation pertaining to release of this record. Information in the temporary record will indi-cate authorship and date. The district will maintain the student’s temporary record for at least 5 years after the student transferred, graduated, or permanently withdrew.

• The following is designated as public information and is available for release to the general public, unless parents request that any or all such information not be released: student’s name, address, grade level, birth date and place, parent’s names and addresses, information on par-ticipation in school sponsored activities and athletics, the student’s major field of study, and pe-riod of attendance in school.

• Federal No Child Left Behind legislation requires school districts to provide student directory information to military recruiters. However, parents may elect to not have their child’s infor-mation shared with the military by completing military information opt out form. To receive this form, you may contact the Registrar Office at VHHS. Once completed, District 128 will not provide student directory information for that child to the military for the duration of their attendance in the district.

Access to Student Records Student records will be made available within 15 days from the request by a parent (or any person specifically designated as a representative by the parent). The District shall grant access to student records as follows: 1. Neither the District nor any of its employees shall release, disclose, or grant access to informa-

tion found in any student record except under the conditions set forth in the Illinois School Stu-dent Records Act.

2. Where the parents/guardians are divorced or separated, both shall be permitted to inspect and copy the student’s school records unless the District has actual notice of a court order indicating otherwise. The District shall send copies of the following to both par-ents/guardians at either’s request, unless the District has actual notice of a court order indi-cation otherwise. Academic progress reports or records, health reports, notices of parent-teacher conferences, school calendars distributed to parent(s)/guardian(s); and notices about open houses, graduations, and other major school events including pupil-parent(s)/guardian(s) interaction.

3. The District may grant access to, or release information from, student records without pa-rental/guardian consent or notification to District employees or officials or the Illinois State Board of Education, provided a current, demonstrable, educational or administrative need is shown. Access in such cases is limited to the satisfaction of that need.

4. All rights and privileges accorded to a parent/guardian become exclusively those of the student

upon his/her eighteenth birthday, graduation from high school, marriage or entry into military service, whichever comes first. The right to inspect and forward records may also be exercised by the student at any time with respect to the student’s permanent record and, under certain conditions, the temporary record.

5. Local, State and Federal educational officials have access to student records for education-al and administrative purposes without parental consent. Student records shall also be re-leased without parental consent pursuant to a court order or subpoena, or in connection with an emergency where the records are needed by law enforcement or medical officials to meet a threat to health or safety of the student or other persons. All other releases of infor-mation require the informed written consent of the parent or eligible student.

6. A parent or student may not be forced by any person or agency to release from the tempo-rary record in order to secure any right, privilege or benefit including employment, credit or insurance.

7. In compliance with Senate Bill 078(Ch. 122, Par, 10-21.8, IL School Code), the school will provide copies of all correspondence and reports to either divorced parent, in the absence of a court order to the contrary, upon the request of the parent.

8. As required ISBE Form 33-78 and in accordance with Section 2-3, 13 (a) of the School Code of Illinois, Vernon Hills High School must state whether a student seeking to transfer to another school is in good standing at Vernon Hills High School and whether or not the student’s medical records are up to date. In good standing means that the student is not being disciplined by suspension or expulsion at the time the good standing affirmation is made.

9. The parent(s)/guardian(s) may challenge the accuracy, relevancy or propriety of the records by notifying the Principal or records custodian of an objection to information contained in the record. An informal conference will then be scheduled to discuss the matter. If no satisfac-tion is obtained, a formal hearing will be scheduled per Board policy.

10. Full and complete copies of the laws, rules and regulations regarding student records are on file with the records custodian of VHHS and the Superintendent of District 128.

11. The District charges $0.25 per page for copying information in a student’s records. No parent(s)/guardian(s) or student shall be precluded from copying information because of fi-nancial hardship.

TRANSCRIPTS Students applying for admission to a college nearly always need a transcript of their high school record. In order to be in compliance with existing state and federal statutes, it is necessary for VHHS to have an authorization to forward student records. This requires having a signed autho-rization on file before student transcripts are sent. Students requesting a transcript should either see their counselor, the Registrar in Room 1514 and bring a photo ID card or visit the VHHS website to obtain a “release of information form.” This completed form should be attached to the application and given to the appropriate counselor. Allow at least one week between the time the application is given to the LST Office and when it is expected to be mailed. TRANSFER STUDENTS Students transferring into VHHS from another school will have their transcripts evaluated in accordance with VHHS guidelines. As an example, VHHS course credit limitations will apply.

TESTING SCHEDULES TESTING SCHEDULE FOR 2009-2010 Descriptions of the abbreviations

ACT American College Testing Program A.P. Advanced Placement Program EXPLORE Freshman Placement Test PLAN Sophomore Only - Practice ACT PSAT/NMSQT Preliminary Scholastics Aptitude Test

National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test SAT I/SAT II Achievement Tests PSAE Prairie State Achievement Exam THE TEST SCHEDULE ACT SAT Test Date Registration Deadline Test Date Registration Deadline 9/12/09 8/7/09 10/10/09 9/9/09 10/24/09 9/18/09 11/7/09 10/1/09 12/12/09 11/6/09 12/5/09 10/30/09 2/6/10 1/5/10 1/23/10 12/15/09 4/10/10 3/5/10 3/13/10 2/4/10 6/12/10 5/7/10 5/1/10 3/25/10 6/5/10 4/29/10 PSAT – October 17, 2009 PLAN – October 14, 2009 PSAE – April 28 & April 29, 2010 Consumer Education Proficiency Test - December Registration - Test administered in January (See Daily Bulletin for Information) FINAL EXAMINATIONS Three days for semester exams are scheduled at the end of each semester. • No final examinations will be given prior to regularly scheduled examination dates. • Students must attend all classes during examination days. • These examinations cover work from the entire semester and count no more than 20%

when determining the semester grade. • Students who fail to report for a final examination without an authorized absence will receive

a zero for the examination and may fail the course. • Students must be on time to final exams, because students will not be allowed in hallways

during exam periods. Any student more than 10 minutes late to an exam will be considered truant. A student who is truant for a final examination will receive a zero for the examina-tion, which may result in failing the course. Unexcused absences must be reviewed by the department chairperson to determine the student’s eligibility to take the exam.

• A student who is truant for a final examination will receive a zero for the examination, which may result in failing the course. Unexcused absences must be reviewed by the department chairperson to determine the student’s eligibility to take the exam.

• Seniors may be exempted from final examinations in a full year course if a grade of “A” is received for the 18th week progress report for that class. Seventh semester seniors will be

exempted from 1st semester final exams for semester courses only. The Exemption criteria would remain the same for eighth semester seniors receiving an “A” for the 18th week progress report.

• Students who are ill and cannot attend classes on their final examination days must have a parent/guardian telephone the high school by 9:30 a.m. on the day of the scheduled exami-nation. Failure to call may result in a truancy. Final Exam dates: 1st semester: January 13, 14, 15, 2nd semester, June 1, 2, 3.

2010 AP EXAM SCHEDULE Week 1 Morning Session Afternoon Session Monday, May 3 United States Government French Language and Politics Tuesday, May 4 Computer Science A Statistics Computer Science AB Spanish Language Wednesday, May 5 Calculus AB Calculus BC Thursday, May 6 English Literature and French Literature Composition German Language Friday, May 7 United States History European History Studio Art (portfolios due) Week 2 Morning Session Afternoon Session Monday, May 10 Biology Physics B Music Theory Physics C: Mechanics Physics C: Electricity & Magnet-

ism Tuesday, May 11 Chemistry Psychology Chemistry Wednesday, May 12 English Language and Art History Composition Thursday, May 13 Macroeconomics Friday, May 14 Human Geography Spanish Literature

SERVICES AVAILABLE TO STUDENTS EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES Equal educational opportunities shall be available for all students without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, ethnicity, language barrier, religious beliefs, physical and mental handicap or disability, economic and social conditions, status as a homeless youth, or actual or potential marital or parental status including pregnancy. Further, the District may not enter into agreements with any entity or any individual that discriminates against students on the basis of sex. The Complaint Managers for VHHS are Jean Aucutt (847) 932-2189 and Greg Stilling

(847) 932-2270 at Vernon Hills High School, 145 N. Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061. SEX EQUITY/TITLE IX No student shall, on the basis of sex, be denied equal access to programs, activities, services, or benefits or be limited in the exercise of any right, privilege, advantage, or denied equal access to educational and extracurricular programs and activities. The Complaint Managers for VHHS are Jean Aucutt (847) 932-2189 and Greg Stilling (847) 932-2270 at Vernon Hills High School, 145 N. Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061. GOOD STUDENT DRIVER INSURANCE FORMS Many insurance companies offer automotive insurance at reduced rates to students who are above average academically. Most insurance companies who offer reduced rates will furnish a form for the student to complete. Usually a student must meet one or more of the following in order to qualify: 1. be in the top 20% of the class, 2. have a “B” average for the immediately preceding grading period, 3. be on the Honor Roll for the immediately preceding grading period, and 4. have at least a 3.00 GPA on a 4.00 system. Students who meet these criteria should take the insurance company form to the Registrar for verifi-cation. HEALTH SERVICES The health services of the school are under the supervision of a registered nurse certified in school nursing. Provision is made for first aid, assisting students who become ill during the school day, and for the supervision of a student’s health program when special attention is required. The par-ent will always be notified in case of serious injury or illness. The student will be sent to an emer-gency room by rescue squad if necessary. No medications will be administered at school unless they are essential in order for a student to remain at school and unless a physician prescribes them. All medications should be stored in the nurse’s office and distributed by the nurse. Students must have a pass from their assigned teacher to see the nurse except in the case of an emergency. The school nurse will send the student home only if conditions so warrant and only after receiving parental permission. It is not the function of the health services department to maintain a clinic or give treatments or medications unless they are required in order to allow a student to attend school. District Policy for Administration of Medication to Students: Medication shall not be administered to a student at school unless absolutely necessary to maintain the continued attendance of the student. This policy shall apply to both prescription and nonprescription medication. If medication is needed during the school day, the following procedure must be followed: 1. Medication shall be administered by the certified school nurse, or a certified employee des-

ignated by the superintendent. 2. The student’s physician shall provide written orders detailing the name of the student, the

diagnosis for which the medication is ordered, the name of the medication with the start and discontinuation date of the drug therapy, the desired effects, and an emergency number where the physician can be contacted. In addition, the physician’s written order shall indi-cate any expected reactions to the medication and shall advise school personnel of adverse symptoms for which to watch. The physician shall detail steps to be followed if the student experiences an adverse reaction. The order shall be renewed periodically.

3. The student’s parent or guardian shall provide to the nurse a signed authorization to admi-nister the medication, which has been ordered by the physician. The authorization shall in-clude the parent or guardian’s name and telephone number for use in case of an emergen-cy.

4. Medication shall be brought to school by the parent, and given to the nurse in the original package or an appropriately labeled container. Prescription medication shall display: stu-dent’s name, prescription number, medication name and dosage, administration route or di-rections, date and refill, licensed prescriber’s name, pharmacy’s name, address, and phone, and name or initials of pharmacist. Over-the-counter medication shall be in the original con-tainer with manufacturer’s label listing all contents, the student’s name affixed to the label. Medication should be delivered to the school by the student’s parent or guardian.

5. The student’s parent shall remove any unused medication from the school at the end of therapy, or the end of the school year. If the parent fails to remove unused medication , the school nurse will appropriately dispose of it in the presence of a witness.

No medication will be administered to students unless these guidelines are followed. If it is determined by physicians or parents that a student should retain medication on himself/herself for self-administration, it is recommended that the parents inform the school nurse of the situa-tion, but the school assumes no responsibility for administering medication unless the above guidelines are followed. Students are permitted to carry an epinephrine auto-injector and/or an inhaler for self-administration when necessary provided that the required information, as stated above, is kept on file in the Health office. All controlled substances prescribed by a physician must be administered by the school nurse. The school assumes no responsibility unless the nurse, under the orders of a physician, admi-nisters the medication. A student may not possess or self-administer any controlled substances. Students are not permitted to give medication to another student. Illinois Recent amendments to the School Code state that students at risk of anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction to insect bites/stings, foods, drugs and other allergies, and students diagnosed with asthma, have immediate access to life-saving medications while in school, at a school sponsored activity, while under the supervision of school personnel, and before or after normal school activities on school property. Required information that must be kept on file in the Health office for self-administration of either asthma or anaphylaxis medication: 1. The parents/guardians of the pupil provide to the school a written authorization for the self-

administration of medication. 2. The parents/guardians of the pupil provide to the school a written order from the pupil’s

physician containing the following information: • The name and purpose of the medication. • The prescribed dosage. • The time(s) at which or special circumstances under which the medication is to be adminis-

tered. Community High School District 128 and its employees incur no liability, except for willful and wanton conduct, as a result of any injury arising from self-administration of medication by the pupil. Permission for administration of medication is effective for the school year for which it is granted and shall be renewed each subsequent school year. MEDICATION PROCEDURE FOR EDUCATIONAL TOURS/FIELD TRIPS A Medication Form for Educational Tours/Field Trips must be completed for each educational tour or field trip that a student participates in when students need to take medications. This form is available in the Health Services Office.

I. Nothing in this policy will prohibit any school employee from providing emergency as-sistance to students, including administering medication.

II. For a field trip lasting only one day, a student who takes medications in the nurse’s office will be allowed to carry and self-administer a dose of medication as needed during an off-site school spon-sored activity (field trip), as long as the following crite-ria are met:

• Medication will be supplied by the parent(s)/guardian(s); • Medication authorization form, filled out by a parent(s)/guardian(s), is on

file with the school nurse; • Medication is stored and transported in its original prescription-labeled

container. III. For an educational tour (a trip lasting more than one day), student may carry and

self-administer over-the-counter and prescription medications provided the following criteria are met:

• Medication will be supplied by the parent(s)/guardian(s); • Medication authorization form, filled out by a parent(s)/guardian(s) is sub-

mitted to the designated district employee/chaperone; • Medication is stored and transported in the original, manufacturer-labeled

or prescription-labeled container. HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION A student is eligible for homebound instruction, if in the opinion of a licensed medical examiner, the student will be absent due to illness for more than two consecutive school days. The student will be tutored by the student’s VHHS, District 128, teacher or an approved teacher for the homebound. This will enable the student, in most cases, to keep up with the classroom work being missed. Arrangements for homebound instruction are made through the Special Services Department, via the student’s guidance counselor. JOB OPPORTUNITIES BOOK The LST Offices regularly receive calls from local employers seeking part-time student help. Notices regarding these jobs are in the Job Book located in the LST Office (Room 1560). Be-cause of age requirements, some jobs will not be open to freshman. Students interested in part-time employment should check the job book regularly. Students interested in summer employ-ment may come to the LST Office to see what jobs are available. LOST AND FOUND Vernon Hills High School is not responsible for personal belongings. However, any articles found on school property will be turned in to the LST Office of the Vernon Hills Campus. MODIFIED INSTRUCTION CATEGORY I: A student who is capable of meeting most course objectives and standards with minor modifications and accommodations. Examples would include alternate testing situations such as a test reader, extended time, or an isolated testing site as determined by the IEP, 504 or Learning Support Team. When applicable, use of a tape recorder or teacher notes would also be considered examples of minor accommodations. Grading would be based on class standards. CATEGORY II: If a student is having difficulty meeting course objectives due to a disability or other reasons as determined by a Special Services Team or a student’s LST, modifications in course goals may be recommended. In these instances, the course title will be changed to include the word “modified”. An educational team will determine the type of grade to be earned.

Students may receive letter grades, using the alternate grading option or other LHS grades. This grade will be computed into the student’s GPA at the regular level. SPIRIT STORE Cougar Parent Connection runs a store with various items, including spirit wear, near the stu-dent cafeteria. Hours vary. STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Staff members at District 128, along with parents and other segments of the community, play an important role in assisting students to make responsible and appropriate decisions related to drug and alcohol us. It is the primary goal of our student assistance program to focus on the needs of individuals who may need assistance. It is not the goal of District 128 to become a treatment center. The purpose is to provide a non-threatening, early intervention channel for students who are exhibiting inappropriate behavior, but for whom formal disciplinary action may not be appropriate. Behaviors of concern include, but are not limited to, absenteeism, tardiness, change in grades, change in extracurricular participation, and withdrawal from peers, aggres-siveness towards peers, lack of attention in class, falling asleep in class, and hostility. PROGRAM PURPOSE – Although all problems that individuals may have are not listed above, and are not necessarily behaviors that could cause formal disciplinary action, they are behaviors that could signal potential problems and interference in the learning process. Discipline cannot be a purpose of this process if the goal of the program is to help the student. If disciplinary action is indicated, it should be separated from the student assistance program. School person-nel who observe this type of behavior will have an opportunity to offer assistance to the individu-als. As part of new teacher orientation, each teacher will be instructed on the procedure of the Student Assistance Program. Any questions should be addressed to the SAP Coordinator Mar-garet Pither at (847) 932-2158. If you have expressed your concern to a student and then no change in their behavior occurs, you can contact the SAP program to have a blue card sent with all the faculty and staff with whom the student interfaces. Important information will be gathered from this blue card system and appropri-ate referrals will be made. WORK PERMITS The school acts as an agent of the State Department of Labor in issuing one-year work permits, issued in the main office. Permits may not be issued unless all state requirements are met and the job for which the permit is requested is on an approved list. Under Section 205/7 of Hazard-ous Occupations - No minor under 16 years of age shall be employed, permitted or allowed to work in any place or establishment in which intoxicating liquors are served or sold for consump-tion on the premises, or in which such liquors are manufactured or bottled. To secure work permits, an applicant must adhere to the following procedures. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by a parent and present: 1. A “Certificate of Physical Fitness” from his/her physician within the last year. 2. A birth certificate or baptismal certificate. 3. A letter of intention from employer with a job description. Up to 20 years old and obtaining an age certificate - only a birth certificate is required. YEARBOOK PICTURES Yearbook pictures will be taken on August 26 and August 27.

TRANSPORTATION AUTOMOBILES/MOTORIZED VEHICLES General Statement:

Student parking on Vernon Hills High School property is a privilege. Students’ vehicles are expected to comply with all state and local laws and ordinances. In order to promote a safe school environment, all parking areas located upon school district property where students or visitors are permitted to park any motor vehicle or which are designated as student or visitors parking areas shall be posted with a sign. The sign shall indicate that the person in charge of the vehicle consents to a search, with or without cause, by a school official or law enforcement officer and/or specially trained dogs. The search may include passenger compartment, engine compartment, trunk and all containers, locked or unlocked, in or on the vehicle. Students and/or persons refusing to cooperate will receive any or all of the following conse-quences: • Loss of parking privilege • police involvement • disciplinary consequences (i.e. suspension). Specific Information: 1. All motorized vehicles must have a permit to park on school grounds. Vehicles on school

grounds without a permit will be subject to ticketing, towing at owner’s expense, and/or possible disciplinary action against the driver. Unauthorized individuals parking without permission will receive a ticket. Cars may be subjected to towing after multiple tickets and may result in loss of the student’s parking sticker. Vernon Hills High School utilizes Ernie’s Towing Service of Vernon Hills. * Vernon Hills High School reserves the right to determine eligibility for parking permits.

2. Each permit will cost $130.00 per year. The current vehicle registration card, the student’s driver’s license and proof of car insurance must be shown to purchase a sticker. Permits may not be sold or given to other students.

3. Students must park in designated areas only: Seniors – West Lot, Juniors – Athletic Sta-dium Parking Lot, Sophomores – Village Lot. Students parking in staff, visitor, or no parking areas may permanently lose parking privileges, be ticketed and/or towed at owner’s ex-pense.

4. The parking permit must be permanently attached to the lower left front (driver’s side) win-dow of the student’s vehicle.

5. The permit may not be transferred to another vehicle. If a student plans to drive more than one family car, a parking sticker must be purchased for each car.

6. Students who use their vehicle to assist others in breaking school rules will be assigned consequences, which may include loss of parking privilege.

7. The speed limit in any areas of Vernon Hills High School is 10 miles per hour. Stop signs must be obeyed.

8. Driving to and from the Technology Campus during the school day without school permis-sion will result in disciplinary consequences and possible loss of parking privileges.

9. Upon arrival at school, students are to immediately park cars in designated areas, leave their vehicle, and enter the building.

10. Students must park between the white lines in a designated spot or the car will be ticketed. 11. Parking privileges may be revoked because of reckless or dangerous driving, unsafe or noisy

vehicles, excessively loud music, continued tardiness to school, cutting classes, pranks, or violations of established regulations. If a sticker is revoked, the student may not park in any VHHS parking lot.

12. Car trouble is never an acceptable excuse for being tardy to school and will be consi-dered a cut or unauthorized absence.

13. All motorcycles, scooters, etc. must follow the rules and regulations for automobiles and park in designated areas. We encourage students to wear helmets when they ride motorcycles or

scooters. 14. All vehicles entering onto Vernon Hills High School property are subject to search without a

warrant. 15. A new permit will be provided for a new or different vehicle only when the original permit

is returned. If the original permit is not returned, students may be denied permission to purchase a new permit or receive a temporary parking permit. The cost of a replacement sticker is $2.00.

16. A temporary parking permit must be obtained by students who have been issued a perma-nent parking sticker, who for unavoidable reasons must drive a different family vehicle. *This temporary permit must be displayed by hanging properly on the rear view mirror. If a permit is not obtained, the unauthorized vehicle may be ticketed and/or towed. The cost of a temporary sticker is $1.00.

17. Underclassmen parking on school grounds without permission may jeopardize their parking privileges for the future.

18. Students are not permitted to park in neighboring business parking lots. 19. If a student withdraws from VHHS, District 128, before the start of the second semester and

completes the withdrawal form, meets all of their financial obligations and returns their park-ing sticker, the student will be entitled to receive a refund of half of the parking fee. The student must request a refund in writing. Students who lose their parking sticker due to dis-ciplinary actions will receive no refund.

20. Students park at their own risk. District 128 is not responsible for damage or theft. 21. Overflow parking for Senior’s is the Junior lot. 22. Overflow parking for Junior’s is the Sophomore lot. BICYCLES For a student’s own protection, when riding a bicycle to school, be sure to lock it in the bicycle rack located on the East side of the building. Bicycles should not be locked to fences or any other object. The school cannot assume responsibility for damaged, lost or stolen bicycles. We encourage students to wear helmets when they ride their bicycle. Students must obey the Vernon Hills Village Ordinances. BUS SERVICE Free transportation is available to students who live 1 1/2 miles or more from school. Buses will be available to transport students to school for the 7:55 AM start and the return route will run at 3:15 PM. On LATE START & FIRST CLASS LATE START days (September 16, 2009, September 23, 2009, October 28, 2009, December 9, 2009, December 16, 2009, January 20, 2010, Febru-ary 3, 2010, March 10, 2010, and April 14, 2010) buses will be available to transport students to school for the 9:40 AM start and the return route will run at 3:15 PM. Parent(s) who must provide transportation to and from school because free transportation is not available for their children may be eligible to receive money from the state to help offset some of the cost, for example, bus fares or mileage reimbursement for private automobiles at the cents per mile rate established by the state. Parent(s) must verify that a safety hazard due to vehicu-lar traffic exists by completing an Application for Determination of Serious Safety Hazard at the Regional Superintendent of Schools office for the county in which they live by February 1, 2008. Guidelines - The student ID card also is used as a bus pass and must be shown to the driver. The bus and route numbers appear on the ID card. Students are allowed to ride only their des-ignated bus. Drop off at other locations is not allowed. Students must cross the road in front of the bus while the stop arm is out and the flashers are operat-

ing. Extreme caution should be observed when entering or leaving the bus. Students using school transportation must enter the building upon arrival and are not allowed to leave campus without admin-istrative approval. School rules apply on the buses. Aside from a possible suspension from school, bus privileges may be suspended for misconduct such as vandalism, fighting, or violation of safety procedures. Behavior expected of students during the regular school day must also be exhibited on the bus. Smoking and/or food are not permitted on the bus. If students should want information regarding specific times or bus routes, call Lakeside School Bus Lines, (847) 263-7619. TRAFFIC FLOW The Vernon Hills Campus encourages drop-offs and pick-ups at the West side entrance only. Buses will unload and load at the Northeast corner of the building.

CODE OF CONDUCT COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 128, EXTRACURRICULAR CODE OF CONDUCT I. Philosophy Community High School District 128 is committed to providing all students with a variety of

opportunities to learn the skills necessary for them to reach their potential as citizens in a global society. The extracurricular program expands the learning opportunities available to students and enhances the academic program.

The district offers an extensive and diverse extracurricular program to provide expanded learning opportunities to students who wish to develop special skills and talents to a higher level. While involvement in these activities is voluntary, it is also a privilege, and students choosing to participate take on extended responsibilities as special representatives of their school and community. These responsibilities hold the student to a higher standard of con-duct as a condition of participation.

This code outlines the expectations for those who choose to be involved in the extracurricular program. This code also defines the rights of our students that will accompany such responsi-bilities. These rights include a due process procedure, which is designed to be consistent and fair to all concerned.

The school expects that all students who choose to participate in the extracurricular pro-gram will honor these guidelines. The school must clearly communicate the expectations of this code to all students and respond to all violations in a fair and expedient manner within the guidelines defined in this code.

We believe these rights and responsibilities for students and the school will help make par-ticipation in our extracurricular program a stronger and enduring learning experience. We hope that the experience will be meaningful and enjoyable for all involved and will increase learning opportunities for all students.

II. Purpose The purpose of this code is to define the rules for all students involved in extracurricular

activities, to define the consequences for those students who violate these rules, and to es-tablish procedures that will ensure fair and consistent enforcement of the code. Participants involved in the extracurricular program are expected to comply with the regulations of the school, observe good order, and conduct themselves in a manner that will bring credit and honor to them and their school. All parties involved must always consider both the best in-terests of the individual student and the integrity of the extracurricular program.

The student extracurricular code of conduct will at no time infringe upon the constitutional rights of students through the enforcement of administrative policy.

III. Student Responsibilities - Code of Conduct I will be the best that I can be and achieve at my highest level. I will influence and encourage my peers in all their endeavors and projects. I will have the courage to take the “right” stand regardless of peer pressure. I will conduct myself in a manner that contributes to an orderly atmosphere and ensures the

rights of all individuals within the school. I will be considerate and respectful of others. I will give my best to my academic and extracurricular pursuits. I will demonstrate care and concern for school property and the property of others. I will respond appropriately to the direction of faculty and staff at school as well as school

activities. I will be responsible for my attitude and behavior. IV. Procedures The Extracurricular Code of Conduct is administered by the Principal in collaboration with

the Athletic Director, Fine Arts Coordinator, Activities Director, and the coach-es/directors/advisors/sponsors of the extracurricular activities. If there is an alleged violation of the code, the student’s privilege of participation in the extracurricular student activity will be withdrawn, and a meeting will be held to discuss the infraction. The parents/guardians shall be notified and advised of the date and time of this meeting. This meeting will include the student, parents/guardians, director/administrator, and may include coach/advisor/sponsor/SAP Coordinator, and other pertinent people involved with the al-leged violation. The parents/guardians will be provided a written summary of this meeting.

Any student may appeal the suspension in writing to the building principal. The appeal must be made within three (3) school days of the suspension code meeting. The Principal or his/her de-signee will review the appeal within five (5) school days of receiving the appeal and the results of the appeal conference will be communicated to the parents/guardians and student. The decision of the Principal is final.

These rules apply to the school-related conduct of all students involved in extracurricular activities, on or off campus, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, throughout the entire ca-lendar year, including weekends and summer. The Code of Conduct encompasses all members of extracurricular student activities such as clubs, fine arts programs, and athletics including cheerleaders, pom-pons, club sport participants, and team managers. School-related conduct is any conduct that has a direct and immediate effect on the discipline or general welfare of the school. School-related conduct includes conduct which occurs off school property and does not occur at school-sponsored events but which, nevertheless, is of such a nature that it reasonably may be deemed to have a direct effect on school discip-line or the general safety and welfare of students and staff. Some examples of inappro-priate behavior include, but are not limited to, use of tobacco/ tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, any form of controlled substance, illegal acts, aiding and abetting, insubordina-tion, lying to school officials, falsifying information/signatures on permit or permission forms, unsportsmanlike conduct, hazing, bullying, or intimidating acts, theft, fighting, and vandal-ism.

V. Policy No member of a Community High School District 128 extracurricular student activity will:

1. Knowingly use, attempt to use, possess, sell, or assist any other student in the use of the fol-lowing: A. Tobacco/tobacco products B. Alcoholic beverages - some examples may include but are not limited to, transport-

ing alcohol or drugs/drug paraphernalia in your car, under the influence, consump-tion of alcohol

C. Any form of controlled substance (drugs, look-alikes, drug paraphernalia) other than those prescribed by a physician for that student

2. Exhibit any behavior/citizenship that is considered detrimental to his/her activity or school. Maintaining or being identified on a blog site which depicts illegal or inappro-priate behavior will be considered a violation of this code.

Some examples of inappropriate behavior include, but are not limited to, illegal acts, aiding and abetting, insubordination, lying to school officials, falsifying information/signatures on permit or permission forms, unsportsmanlike conduct, hazing, bullying, or intimidating acts, theft, fighting, and vandalism.

The student extracurricular code of conduct is cumulative beginning with the student and par-ents/guardians signing of the code and continuing throughout the student’s entire high school career. These policies are in effect on or off campus throughout the entire twelve-month ca-lendar year, including weekends and summer, and do not supersede District 128 school discip-linary policies. Suspension for violations will start from the point of discovery of the violation and meeting with student. Students who are unable to complete a sanction during the course of the year, sports season, activity, or event shall complete the sanction during the next year, sports season, activity, or event. If a student participates in a sport, activity, or event after a vi-olation of the code, he/she must complete that sport, activity, or event in which the suspension is being administered in good standing.

To facilitate implementation of this policy, the following terms are defined: Under the Influence: Any student who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage, mari-

juana, any controlled substance other than as prescribed by a physician, or any other intoxicat-ing substance will be subject to disciplinary action. Any student who has consumed or used any amount of a controlled substance, examples of which include, but are not limited to, ecsta-sy, GHB, marijuana, or other drugs or intoxicants including alcohol, will be considered under the influence. The determination can be made by a police or school official, but the final deci-sion to discipline will be made by the administration.

Possession: Any student who has possession or control of any alcoholic beverage, tobac-co/tobacco products, marijuana, and controlled substance other than as prescribed by a physician for that individual, any other intoxicating substance, any “look-alike” intoxicating substance, or any drug paraphernalia shall be subject to disciplinary action. The term “pos-session” as used herein is defined to include the use of the student’s person, clothing, sup-plies, or automobile as well as school lockers, desks, or other school property for the sto-rage of illegal substances.

Delivery: Any student who delivers, receives delivery of, or attempts/intends to deliver or receive delivery of any alcoholic beverage, tobacco, any controlled substance, any other in-toxicating substance, or any drug paraphernalia or any look-alike, will be subject to discipli-nary action. Delivery means a transfer of possession or control to another person whether or not the substance or item is in that person’s immediate presence. Delivery includes, but is not limited to, any gift, exchange, sale, or other transfer with or without payment or other consideration.

Look-alikes: A “look-alike substance” is a substance, which by dosage unit appearance, includ-ing color, shape, size, container and/or packaging, markings, or by representation made, would lead a reasonable person to believe that the substance is an alcoholic beverage, marijuana, or a controlled substance.

Drug Paraphernalia: “Drug paraphernalia” means all equipment, products, and materials of any kind that are peculiar to, marketed for use in packaging, repackaging, storing, con-

taining, concealing, injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing into the human body, marijuana, or any controlled substance other than as prescribed by a physician.

Provisions of state and national charters/bylaws of student organizations shall not take precedence over the provisions of this policy.

VI. Disciplinary Procedures The following procedures will be applied in accordance with the district’s disciplinary proce-

dures. In addition, the following consequences are outlined in the following three distinct categories. Students who violate the extracurricular code of conduct will be declared inelig-ible and suspended from participation as follows:

ATHLETIC PROCEDURES The ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT for all athletes, cheerleaders, pom-pons, club sports, and team managers has been adopted by the Community High School District 128. Our entire athletic department is committed to enforcing the code of conduct. Participation in the athletic programs at Community District 128 High Schools is a privilege. No member of a Community High School District 128 athletic team, cheerleading squad, pom-pon squad, club sport or team manager will, after executing the athletic code: 1. Knowingly use, attempt to use, possess, sell, or assist any other student in the use of the fol-

lowing: A. Tobacco/tobacco products B. Alcoholic beverages - some examples may include but are not limited to, transporting

alcohol or drugs/drug paraphernalia in your car, consumption of alcohol. C. Any form of controlled substance/drugs/look-alikes/drug paraphernalia other than those

prescribed by a physician for that student. 2. Exhibit gross misconduct or behavior/citizenship that is considered detrimental to his/her

team or school. Student-athlete behaviors must be in compliance with acceptable standards of conduct as per the current edition of the Student Parent Handbook. Some examples of inappropriate behavior may include, but are not limited to illegal acts, theft, fighting, vandal-ism, aiding and abetting, lying to school officials, falsifying information/signatures on permit or permission forms, hazing, bullying, or intimidating acts. Maintaining or being identified on a blog site which depicts illegal or inappropriate behavior will be considered a violation of this code.

3. If there is an alleged violation of the athletic code, the athlete’s privilege of participation in athletic contests is immediately withdrawn and a meeting will be held to discuss the infrac-tion. A. The parent/guardian shall be notified and advised of the date and time of this meeting.

This meeting will include the athlete, parents/guardians, director/administrator, and in-clude coach/advisor/sponsor/SAP Coordinator, and other pertinent people involved with the alleged violation.

B. The parents/guardians will be provided a written summary of this meeting. Failure to at-tend this meeting will result in the suspension being served during the athlete’s current or next sport season. The Athletic Code Council (Athletic Director, SAP representative, Assistant Athletic Director, coach and other pertinent people) will determine the conse-quences for the violation.

4. The athletic code record and consequences are cumulative beginning with the student ath-lete and parents signing of this code and continuing throughout the athlete’s entire high school career. These policies are in effect on or off campus throughout the entire calendar year, including weekends and summer, and do not supersede District 128 school discipli-nary policies. Suspension for violations will start from the point of discovery of the violation and meeting with athlete. If an athlete participates in a sport after a violation of the code,

he/she must complete the season in good standing and earn an award in the sport in which the suspension is being administered. Athletes who are unable to complete a sanction dur-ing the course of the sports season shall complete the sanction during the next sports sea-son. Athletes who violate the athletic code will be declared ineligible and suspended from athletic participation as follows: A. First Offense

1. Tobacco/tobacco products, alcoholic beverages or any form of a controlled sub-stance (drugs, drug/look-alikes, drug paraphernalia) other than those prescribed by a physician for that student. The athlete will be suspended for 40% of the contests in his/her current sport season or the first scheduled sport in which the individual participates. The athlete and parents/guardians may enroll in an educational pro-gram. Documentation of successful completion of an approved program within 60 days of the code meeting to the SAP Coordinator will result in a 30% suspension of the contests/competitions. Failure to successfully complete the program as deter-mined by the SAP coordinator and Athletic Director will result in the athlete serving the original consequence. The 10% may be added to the next sport season for non-completion of the approved educational program.

Self reporting–For an offense involving any of the substances listed in First Offense number 1, an athlete or parent may voluntarily admit an athletic code violation to the Athletic Director provided the following: • Self-reporting may be used one (1) time only in the athlete’s entire high school

career and only with regard to a first violation. • An athlete cannot self-report an incident for avoidance of a consequence. • An athlete cannot self-report an incident which the school already has or will

become aware of, or shall be informed of, by other means, including but not li-mited to, notification by judicial or law enforcement agencies.

• Athletes who self-report will be subject to a 20% loss of contests in their current season or the first sport in which they participate. The consequence may be reduced to 10% suspension of the season’s contests/competitions if the athlete signs up for and successfully completes a school approved educational pro-gram.

• Self-reporting of a first offense will not be recorded as a violation provided the individuals maintains behaviors consistent with expectations/standards of the current Student/Parent Handbook and remains in compliance with CHSD 128 rules and policies for a full calendar year from the date of the initial reporting. Should a violation occur within a calendar year this will then be considered a second violation.

• Athletes who believe they have a substance abuse problem are encouraged to seek help by voluntarily contacting the social worker, a counselor, a member of the school’s SAP team, or a member of the administration. Participation in a recognized substance abuse program is valuable for the student but cannot be used to escape responsibility for sanctions under this policy.

2. Behavior/Citizenship as described in 2 (on page 1) above will result in the athlete being suspended from 10% - 40% of his/her current sport season or the first sche-duled sport in which the individual participates.

3. During an athletic suspension, the athlete is expected to attend and participate in all required practices and successfully complete the season.

B. Second Offense 1. Two violations of the athletic code will result in total exclusion from interscholastic

athletics at Community High School District 128 for the remainder of his/her high school career. However, the athlete may petition, in writing, to the Athletic Director for reinstatement to the athletic program, providing that at least one calendar year of suspension has been completed from the date of the second infraction.

Consideration for reinstatement to the athletic program will be considered only if the in-dividual demonstrated compliance with CHSD 128 rules and policies for a full ca-lendar year from the date of the second offense.

C. Third Offense 1. A third offense will result in total exclusion from all athletic programs for the re-

mainder of the student’s high school career. There will be no option to petition for reinstatement into the athletic program.

D. Appeal Process An athlete may appeal the suspension in writing to the building principal. The appeal

must be made within three (3) school days of the suspension code meeting. The Prin-cipal or his/her designee will review the appeal within five (5) school days of receiving the appeal and the results of the appeal conference will be communicated to the par-ents/guardian and student. The decision of the Principal is final.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES PROCEDURES The code of conduct for all members of student activities has been adopted by the District 128 Board of Education. Our staff and advisors are committed to enforcing the code of conduct. Participation in the student activities at Community High School District 128, is a privilege and not a right. No member of a Community High School District 128 student activity will, after ex-ecuting the code of conduct: 1. Knowingly use, attempt to use, possess, sell, or assist any other student in the use of the fol-

lowing: A. Tobacco/tobacco products B. Alcoholic beverages - some examples may include but are not limited to, transporting

alcohol or drugs/drug paraphernalia in your car, consumption of alcohol. C. Any form of controlled substance/drugs/look-alikes/drug paraphernalia other than those

prescribed by a physician for that student. 2. Exhibit gross misconduct or behavior/citizenship that is considered detrimental to his/her

team or school. Student activity behaviors must be in compliance with acceptable standards of conduct as per the current edition of the Student Parent Handbook. Some examples of inappropriate behavior may include, but are not limited to illegal acts, theft, fighting, vandal-ism, aiding and abetting, lying to school officials, falsifying information/signatures on permit or permission forms, hazing, bullying, or intimidating acts. Maintaining or being identified on a blog site which depicts illegal or inappropriate behavior will be considered a violation of this code.

3. If there is an alleged violation of the code, the student’s privilege of participation in an extra-curricular activity is immediately withdrawn and a meeting will be held to discuss the infrac-tion. A. The parent/guardian shall be notified and advised of the date and time of this meeting.

This meeting will include the student, parents/guardians, Student Activities Director, and other pertinent people involved with the alleged violation.

B. The parents/guardians will be provided a written summary of this meeting. 4. The student extracurricular code record and consequences are cumulative beginning with the

student and parents signing of this code and continuing throughout the student’s entire high

school career. These policies are in effect on or off campus throughout the entire calendar year, including weekends and summer, and do not supersede District 128 school disciplinary policies. Suspension for violations will start from the point of discovery of the violation and meeting with student. If a student participates in a sport, activity, or event after a violation of the code, he/she must complete the sport, activity, or event in good standing in the sport, activi-ty or event in which the suspension is being administered. Students who are unable to com-plete a sanction during the course of the sport, activity or event season shall complete the sanction during the next sports season, activity or event season. Students who violate the extracurricular code will be declared ineligible and suspended from participation as follows: A. First Offense

1. Tobacco/tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, or any form of a controlled sub-stance (drugs, look-alikes, or drug paraphernalia) other than those prescribed by a physician for that student - The student will be suspended for 40%*(see explanation below) of the total term of his/her current student activity or the first student activity in which the individual participates. The student and parents/guardians may enroll in an educational program. Documentation of successful completion of an approved program within 60 days of the code meeting to the SAP Coordinator will result in a 10%*(see explanation below) reduction of the original consequence. Failure to suc-cessfully complete the program, as determined by the SAP Coordinator and Student Activities Director, will result in the student serving the original consequence. The 10% may be added to the next school year for non-completion of an approved edu-cational program.

Self-reporting – For an offense involving any of the substances listed in First Offense number 1, a student may voluntarily admit a code violation to the Activities Director pro-vided the following: • Self-reporting may be used one (1) time only in the student’s high school career

and only with regard to a first violation. • A student cannot self-report an incident for avoidance of a penalty. • A student cannot self-report an incident which the school already has or will be-

come aware or shall be informed by other means including, but not limited to, notification by judicial or law enforcement agencies.

• Students who self-report will be subject to a 20%*(see explanation below) loss during the current school year. The consequence may be reduced to 10%*(see explanation below) if the student signs up for and successfully completes a school approved educational program.

• Self-reporting of a first offense will not be recorded as a violation provided the individual maintains behaviors consistent with expectations/standards of the current Student/Parent Handbook and remains in compliance with CHSD 128 rules and policies for a full calendar year from the date of the initial reporting. Should a violation occur within a calendar year this will then be considered a second violation.

• Students who believe they have a substance abuse problem are encouraged to seek help by voluntarily contacting the social worker, a counselor, a member of the school’s SAP team, or a member of the administration. Participation in a recognized substance abuse program is valuable for the student but cannot be used to escape responsibility for sanctions under this policy.

2. Behavior/Citizenship as described in 2 above will result in the student being sus-pended from 10% - 40%*(see explanation below) of his/her current student activity term or the first student activity in which the individual participates.

3. During an activity suspension for a primarily competitive activity, the student is ex-

pected to attend and participate in all required practices and successfully complete the activity. The student is only to attend contests/competitions/outings as a specta-tor.

During an activity suspension for a primarily non-competitive activity, the student is ex-cluded from attending any and all meetings, rehearsals, events, or outings.

B. Second Offense Two violations of the code will result in total exclusion from student activities at Commu-

nity High School District 128, for the remainder of his/her high school career. However, the student may petition, in writing, to the Student Activities Director for reinstatement to the activities program, providing that at least one calendar year of suspension has been completed from the date of the second infraction.

Consideration for reinstatement to student activities will be considered only if the indi-vidual demonstrated compliance with CHSD 128 rules and policies for a full calendar year from the date of the second offense.

C. Third Offense A third offense will result in total exclusion from all extracurricular activities for the re-

mainder of the student’s high school career. There will be no option to petition for reins-tatement into the activities program.

D. Appeal Process Any student may appeal the suspension in writing to the building principal. The appeal

must be made within three (3) school days of the suspension code meeting. The Prin-cipal or his/her designee will establish the appeal process, review the appeal within five (5) school days of receiving the appeal, and determine the final result of the appeal which will be communicated to the student, parents/guardian. The decision of the Prin-cipal is final.

* (Explanation) For the purposes of determining 10-40% consequences in Student Ac-tivities, a distinction is made between primarily competitive and primarily non-competitive activities and organizations. If any group/activity engages in interscholastic competition as a primary activity, the consequence will be determined based on number of contests (as is the case in athletics). In primarily non-competitive activities and organ-izations, the consequence is determined based on total number of days (term) that the activity or event meets. • According to this definition, competitive activities/organizations include, but may not

be limited to, the following: Math Team, Robotics Team, WYSE, Speech, Model U.N., DECA, FBLA, etc.

• According to this definition, non-competitive activities/organizations include, but may not be limited to, the following: SPARK, Environmental Club, Interact, and most oth-er clubs.

FINE ARTS PROCEDURES This policy will pertain to any student who participates in the extra-curricular Fine Arts groups: Participation in extracurricular activities at Community High School District 128 is a privilege and not a right. No member of a Community High School District 128 Fine Arts extracurricular student activity will: 1. Knowingly use, attempt to use, possess, sell, or assist any other student in the use of the fol-

lowing: A. Tobacco/tobacco products B. Alcoholic beverages - some examples may include but are not limited to, transporting al-

cohol or drugs/drug paraphernalia in your car, consumption of alcohol. Any form of con-trolled substance/drugs/look-alikes/drug paraphernalia other than those prescribed by a

physician for that student. 2. Exhibit gross misconduct or behavior/citizenship that is considered detrimental to his/her

team or school. Student fine arts behaviors must be in compliance with acceptable stan-dards of conduct as per the current edition of the Student Parent Handbook. Some exam-ples of inappropriate behavior may include, but are not limited to illegal acts, theft, fighting, vandalism, aiding and abetting, lying to school officials, falsifying information/signatures on permit or permission forms, hazing, bullying, or intimidating acts. Maintaining or being identi-fied on a blog site which depicts illegal or inappropriate behavior will be considered a viola-tion of this code.

3. If there is an alleged violation of the code, the student’s privilege of participation in an extra-curricular activity is immediately withdrawn and a meeting will be held to discuss the infrac-tion. A. The parent/guardian shall be notified and advised of the date and time of this meeting.

This meeting will include the student, parents/guardians, Fine Arts Supervisor, and oth-er pertinent people involved with the alleged violation. The parents/guardians will be provided a written summary of this meeting.

4. The student extracurricular code record and consequences are cumulative beginning with the student and parents signing of this code and continuing throughout the student’s entire high school career. These policies are in effect on or off campus throughout the entire ca-lendar year, including weekends and summer, and do not supersede District 128 school disciplinary policies. Suspension for violations will start from the point of discovery of the vi-olation and meeting with student. If a student participates in a sport, activity, or event after a violation of the code, he/she must complete the sport, activity, or event in good standing in the sport, activity or event in which the suspension is being administered. Students who are unable to complete a sanction during the course of the sport, activity or event season shall complete the sanction during the next sports season, activity or event season. Students who violate the extracurricular code will be declared ineligible and suspended from participation as follows:

Fine Arts procedures A. First Offense

1. Tobacco/tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, or any form of a controlled substance (drugs, look-alikes, or drug paraphernalia) other than those prescribed by a physician for that student - The student will be suspended for 8 consecutive scheduled days of practices/performances for his/her current Fine Arts activity or the first Fine Arts activity in which the individual participates. The student and parents/guardians may enroll in an educational program. Documentation of successful completion of an approved program within 60 days of the code meeting to the SAP Coordinator will result in a reduction of the original consequence. Failure to successfully complete the program, as determined by the SAP Coordinator and Fine Arts Coordinator, will result in the student serving the original consequence. The reduction of the original consequence may be added to the next school year for non-completion of an approved educational program.

Self-Reporting – For an offense involving any of the substances listed in First Offense number 1, a student may voluntarily admit a code violation to the Fine Arts Coordinator, provided the fol-lowing:

Self-reporting may be used one (1) time only in the student’s high school career and only with regard to a first violation.

A student cannot self-report an incident for avoidance of a penalty. A student cannot self-report an incident which the school already has or will become aware

or shall be informed by other means including, but not limited to, notification by judicial or law enforcement agencies.

Students who self-report will be subject to one half (1/2) of the consequence during the cur-rent school year. The consequence may be reduced further if the student signs up for and successfully completes a school approved educational program.

Self-reporting of a first offense will not be recorded as a violation provided the individual maintains behaviors consistent with expectations/standards of the current Stu-dent/Parent Handbook and remains in compliance with CHSD 128 rules and policies for a full calendar year from the date of the initial reporting. Should a violation occur within a calendar year this will then be considered a second violation.

Students who believe they have a substance abuse problem are encouraged to seek help by voluntarily contacting the social worker, a counselor, a member of the school’s SAP team, or a member of the administration. Participation in a recognized substance abuse program is valuable for the student but cannot be used to escape responsibility for sanctions under this policy.

2. Behavior/Citizenship as described in 2 above will result in the student being suspended from 1-8 days of his/her current Fine Arts activity in which the individual participates.

B. Second Offense Two violations of the code will result in total exclusion from all Fine Arts activities in Com-

munity High School District 128 for the remainder of his/her high school career. However, the student may petition, in writing, to the Fine Arts Coordinator for reinstatement to Fine Arts extracurricular activities, providing that at least one calendar year of suspension has been completed from the date of the second infraction.

Consideration for reinstatement to the Fine Arts program will be considered only if the indi-vidual demonstrated compliance with CHSD 128 rules and policies for a full calendar year from the date of the initial offense.

C. Third Offense A third offense will result in total exclusion from all Fine Arts extracurricular activities for the

remainder of the student’s high school career. There will be no option to petition for reins-tatement into the Fine Arts program.

D. Appeal Process Any student may appeal the suspension in writing to the building principal. The appeal must

be made within three (3) school days of the suspension code meeting. The Principal or his/her designee will establish the appeal process, review the appeal within five (5) school days of receiving the appeal, and determine the final result of the appeal which will be communicated to the student, parents/guardian. The decision of the Principal is final.

This policy and procedure will be made available to all students and parents/guardians in the student handbook as well as on the District Web Site and will be discussed with the stu-dents by their coach, sponsor, or activity advisor no later than the first meeting of the activity in that year or at the mandatory parent meeting prior to the start of the sport, student activity or fine arts activity. Students will be required to sign a form indicating that they have read and understood the penalties of a code of conduct violation.

E. IHSA NO PASS - NO PLAY FOR FINE ARTS/STUDENT ACTIVITIES Students participating in any school-sponsored or school-supported club or fine arts extra-

curricular activity at Community High School District 128 will comply with the Illinois High School State Association by-laws in regards to eligibility and scholastic standing.

Students shall be doing passing work in at least twenty (20) credit hours of high school work per week to be eligible to participate in the interscholastic athletic program and shall be doing passing work in at least twenty (20) credit hours of high school work per semester for students participating in any school-sponsored or school-supported extracurricular activity. Such work shall have been completed in the semester for which credit is granted or in a district recognized summer school program, which has been approved by the Board of Education, and for which

graduation credit is granted. Passing work shall be defined as work of such a grade that if on any given date a student

would transfer to another school; passing grades for the course would immediately be certi-fied on the student’s transcript to the school to which they transfer.

Failure to complete passing work in at least twenty (20) credit hours per semester shall preclude participation in interscholastic athletics, clubs and fine arts extracurricular activities for the following semester. (BOE, Policy 715.13)

ATHLETICS ATHLETIC AWARDS School athletic awards are presented to members of the Freshmen, Sophomore/Junior Varsity and Varsity teams. Participants receive awards if they meet the requirements established for each sport and are recommended by the coach. School numeral awards are issued to Freshmen athletes only during the Freshmen year of competi-tion. School letters are awarded for participation at the Sophomore/Junior Varsity and Varsity level of competition. Freshman athletes who earn a varsity letter will not receive numerals until the end of the school year if they have not earned them for another sport. Those Freshmen athletes must request them from the Athletic Office at the end of the school year if they have earned a varsity letter as a freshman. ATHLETIC PASSES - FAMILY Family passes will be sold at the gate for home football and basketball games. The price is $50.00. These passes will permit admission to all home Football, Boys Basketball, Girls Bas-ketball, and Wrestling events excluding any North Suburban Conference Invitational or IHSA State sponsored contest. ATHLETIC RECOGNITION A special awards night has been set aside for each season. Fall Sports – November 19, 2008 Winter Sports – March 16, 2009 Spring Sports – May 28, 2009 ATHLETIC REGULATIONS – HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE If a student plans to participate in athletics at Vernon Hills High School, he/she must meet both of the following academic standards as set by the Illinois High School Association: • Student Athletes must have passed four (4) full classes during the previous semester

(excluding Physical Education and Driver Education). • Student Athletes must pass four (4) classes every week (excluding Physical Educa-

tion and Driver Education) during their season of competition. A complete listing of Illinois High School Association rules and regulations can be found at www.ihsa.org. NCAA If a student plans to participate in athletics after high school, he/she should reference the following website for assistance with their academic planning in order to be eligible for athletics in college: • NCAA Division I and II – www.ncaa.org Questions regarding athletic eligibility in high school or college should be directed to

Athletic Director Brian McDonald. For more information concerning NCAA Clearinghouse approved courses, please visit www.ncaa.org/eligibility/cbsa or call the Registrar 932-2073 or the Athletic Director at 932-2022. NO PASS - NO PARTICIPATION Students participating in any school-sponsored or school-supported athletic program, club or fine arts extracurricular activity at Community High School District 128 will comply with the Illi-nois High School State Association by-laws in regards to eligibility and scholastic standing. Students shall be doing passing work in at least twenty (20) credit hours of high school work per week to be eligible to participate in the interscholastic athletic program and shall be doing pass-ing work in at least twenty (20) credit hours of high school work per semester for students partic-ipating in any school-sponsored or school-supported extracurricular activity. Such work shall have been completed in the semester for which credit is granted or in a district recognized summer school program, which has been approved by the Board of Education, and for which graduation credit is granted. Passing work shall be defined as work of such a grade that if on any given date a student would transfer to another school, passing grades for the course would immediately be certified on the student’s transcript to the school to which they transfer. Failure to complete passing work in at least twenty (20) credit hours per semester shall preclude participation in interscholastic athletics, clubs and fine arts extracurricular activities for the fol-lowing semester. (BOE, Policy 715.13) PROCEDURES FOR COLLECTING ATHLETIC FEES 1. All required school fees must be up to date prior to athletic participation and must be paid

first before the athletic fees are paid. 2. All required fees must be paid before a student is issued Vernon Hills High School equip-

ment. 3. Permit card, athletic code of conduct and physical must be on file in the athletic office prior

to the first day of tryouts/practice. The Athletic Offices are located in Room 1110. 4. All participation fees will be assessed after tryout and team rosters are determined. 5. Athletic participation fees will be applied per athletic season on each student’s monthly fee state-

ment. 6. Individuals who quit the team before the first scheduled contest will have this fee refunded.

There will be no refunds after this date for any reason. SCHOLASTIC STANDING Students must pass twenty (20) credit hours of high school work per week. Students must have passed twenty (20) credit hours of high school work the previous semester to be eligible for the current (next) semester. A one-semester class meeting one period per day and receiving 1/2 unit of credit per semester is considered a 5-hour class. At VHHS, students must pass 4 classes. Physical Education and Driver Education do not count as one of the required 4 classes. Eligibility is determined by calculating the student’s cumulative grade to date for the semester. See the coach or Athletic Director, with any questions. TO BE ELIGIBLE EACH ATHLETE MUST HAVE: 1. A completed athletic permit card on file in the Athletic Office. This card includes a doctor’s

permit to participate, insurance release, and parents’ permit to participate information, emergency treatment permission, and the Athletic Code of Conduct. This card must be completed and on file in the athletic office before a student will be permitted to practice or participate in a contest.

2. Each freshman student and his/her parent/guardian will be required to attend an athletic

information night. Students will NOT be permitted to participate in an athletic contest until this requirement has been satisfied. At this meeting we will present information on athletic procedures, policies and expectations. Along with this information we will review our athletic program and training rules (Athletic Code of Conduct). The athletic code may be signed at a later date and will be cumulative beginning with the student athlete and parents signing of this code and continuing throughout the athlete’s entire high school career. These policies are in effect throughout the entire year, including summer, and do not supersede Vernon Hills High School disciplinary policies. Suspension for violations will start from the point of discovery of the violation. There will be some time at the end of the meeting to answer any questions. The date of the freshman athletic orientation night is Wednesday, September 2, 2009. The meeting will start promptly at 7:00 PM in the VHHS Auditorium.

ATHLETIC TEAMS Participation in Vernon Hills High School’s Athletic Program is a privilege intended to provide students with rewarding experiences that extend education beyond the structure and rigors of the classroom. Benefits in overall physical conditioning, acquisition of personal and team goals, and the development of socialization skills are but a few of the desired consequences of partici-pation in Cougar Athletics. Athletic Director: Brian McDonald (847) 932-2022 Assistant Athletic Director: Chris Curry (847) 932-2041 Athletic Director’s Secretary: Kathy Catanzaro (847) 932-2023 SCHEDULES: Visit http://vhhscougars.org and click athletics or call the hotline 847-932-2402 FALL Sport Head Coach Phone Starting Date Football Tony Monken 932-2263 8/12/09 Boys’ Golf Shawn Healey 932-2500 x8417 8/12/09 Girls’ Golf Sean Crevier 932-2500 x8097 8/12/09 Boys’ Soccer Shannon Etnyre 932-2500 x8573 8/12/09 Boys’ Cross Country Michael Roberts 224-406-0753 8/12/09 Girls’ Cross Country Suzanne Richert 847-932-2013 8/12/09 Girls’ Swimming/Diving Kedric Greenawalt 932-2500 x8566 8/12/09 Girls’ Tennis Doug Gerber 932-2500 x8154 8/12/09 Girls’ Volleyball Abbie Gutzmer 932-2500 x8426 8/12/09 Pom Pons Brittany Henley 932-2500 x8084 8/12/09 Cheerleading TBA 8/12/09 WINTER Sport Head Coach Phone Starting Date Boys’ Bowling Ron Long 932-2032 10/26/09 Girls’ Bowling Andra Hjelm 847-309-9333 11/09/09 Girls’ Basketball Paul Brettner 932-2500 x8151 11/2/09 Boys’ Basketball Matt McCarty 932-2500 x8068 11/09/09

Girls’ Gymnastics Denise Caton 932-2500 x8684 11/09/09 Wrestling Jerry Miceli 847-932-2196 11/09/09 Boys’ Swimming/Diving Kedric Greenawalt 932-2500 x8566 11/23/09 Ice Hockey (club) Jamie Dobson 847-902-5502 TBA SPRING Sport Head Coach Phone Starting Date Boys’ Track Jeff Morello 932-2021 3/01/10 Girls’ Track Corey Atwell 932-2168 3/01/10 Baseball Jason Czarnecki 932-2500 x8137 3/01/10 Softball Paul Weber 847-361-1105 3/01/10 Boys’ Tennis Doug Gerber 932-2500 x8154 3/01/10 Boys’ Lacrosse Brian Miller 932-2295 3/01/10 Girls’ Lacrosse Bob Thompson 932-2500 x8657 3/01/10 Boys’ Water Polo Pat Costello 932-2500 x8183 3/01/10 Girls’ Water Polo Shona Moeller 847-772-9870 3/01/10 Girls’ Soccer Vince DeLuca 932-2500 x8014 3/01/10 Boys’ Volleyball Chris Curry 932-2041 3/08/10

STUDENT ACTIVITIES Participation in student activities enables a student to develop leadership qualities, make new friends, learn leisure time activities, pursue special interests and just have fun! Following is a representative list, along with the advisor for the 2009-2010 school year, of the various activities presented to the student body. Every student is encouraged to select one or more of the activities in which to actively partici-pate. However since the primary purpose of high school is to promote scholastic achievement, a student is advised to select activities wisely and to budget their time effectively. There are activities that provide for (1) an extension of interest provoked in the classroom, (2) an opportu-nity to develop special interests and abilities and (3) social and service activities in the school and community. STUDENT ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR: Mrs. Deborah Beagle - (847) 932-2195

STUDENT COUNCIL ELECTED OFFICIALS OF 2009-2010

STUDENT COUNCIL EXECUTIVE BOARD President ............................................................................................ .Alexander Guletsky Vice President ...................................................................................................Alex Porter Treasurer .................................................................................................. .Meghan Wilgus Recording Secretary..................................................................................... Andrew Wood Corresponding Secretary……………………………………………………. Kori Cotteleer Student Council Advisor… .................................................................... .Mrs. Leslie Nardini Student Council Advisor Assistant ........................................................... Ms. Jane Wenzel

SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS President .................................................................................................. Steven Sprieser Vice President ...............................................................................................Mansi Kathria Secretary ....................................................................................................... Anisha Arora Treasurer ...................................................................................................... Jessica Block JUNIOR CLASS OFFICERS President .................................................................................................... Brian Sanoshy Vice President ........................................................................................ Nitya Bhagavatula Secretary .......................................................................................................Rachel Wells Treasurer .................................................................................................... Liezl Jacobson SOPHOMORE CLASS OFFICERS President ..................................................................................................... Jaclyn Bernas Vice President ......................................................................................... Sanchita Agrawal Secretary ................................................................................................... Bineeta Monga Treasurer .......................................................................................................... Grace Lee FRESHMAN CLASS OFFICERS

(TBA - ELECTED DURING FIRST FEW WEEKS OF SCHOOL) President……………………………………………………………………_____________ Vice President………………………………………………………….…_____________ Secretary……………………………………………………………………_____________ Treasurer……………………………………………………………….…_____________

STUDENT ACTIVITIES ACADEMIC BOWL (Dr. Paul Kemp & Mrs. Megan Geltner): The Academic Bowl Team com-petes against area schools by answering a variety of questions on topics ranging from math to music to current events. The season runs from October to March and includes weekly practic-es/competitions and various tournaments. Academic Bowl is competitive and fun. ANIME (Mrs. Monica Tolva): A club for those who love Japanese culture. If you enjoy anime films, manga, DDR, Japanese foods, and other aspects of Japanese culture, this club that meets every two weeks after school is for you. This is a social group and a lot of fun. Everyone is welcome. ART CLUB (Mr. Jim Savage & Mrs. Stefanie Dahlstrom): Students may express their creativity through a variety of activities in Art Club. Student functions also include field trips to galleries and museums as well as service projects throughout the year. ATHLETES COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE (ACE) (Mr. Paul Brettner): This organization is for all athletes, cheerleaders, and pompon squad members that are committed to being sub-stance free. Meetings are held once a month with social and service activities. BOOK CLUB (Mrs. Ellen Macias, Mrs. Sonya Stevens & Mrs. Monica Tolva): After a success-ful pilot year, the 2009-2010 school year marks the inauguration of the student Book Club. The club revolves around all things reading; activities range from discussions based on student-chosen texts to service projects with a literary focus. The club will meet bi-monthly to ex-plore this variety of activities. BACKLIGHT THEATRE COMPANY (Mr. Kevin Phelan & Mrs. Stephanie Freichels): This is your chance to get to work behind the stage or in the spotlight. Every year the Backlight Theatre

Company participates in the Illinois High School Association Theater Festival where over 240 schools participate BASS FISHING TEAM (Mr. Doug Dusthimer & Mr. Jerry Miceli): IHSA Bass Fishing Team is a group of individuals dedicated to improving their skills as bass anglers and participating in com-petitive bass tournaments. The team is primarily active during the open water season in the early fall and mid to late spring. The state sectionals and championship occur in the spring and invitational’s can occur in either fall or spring. Meetings to prepare for the tournaments begin in late February. BEST BUDDIES (Ms. Karen Martin): The mission of Best Buddies is to enhance the lives of people with disabilities by providing opportunities for one to one friendship. Best Buddies is working to cross the invisible line that too often separates those with disabilities from those without. CHOIR (Voicemail-Men’s Choir, Chord on Blue-Women’s Choir) (Mr. Jeremy Little): Sings con-temporary and pop tunes off the radio, rehearses 1 hour/week, advanced vocal skills required, must be a member of choir to audition. COUGAR-TV (Ms. Sandy Martin): Make your dreams of becoming a director, news anchor, sports announcer, or cameraman come true. This is an activity where students learn as much about television production as they are willing to pursue. Explore the use of digital equipment in a hands-on learning environment. It’s a labor of love. COUGAR GUARD (Mr. Jim Pardun): The Guard is comprised of those aquatic enthusiasts who want to help the school and community through our swim program. Guard members help teach at our Learn-to Swim program on Saturday mornings, and weekdays during the summer. DECA: (Business Club) (Ms. Sheryl Olson & Mrs. Madeline Powell): This successful business, marketing and management student organization provides students with the unique opportunity to take the skills and knowledge learned in high school and apply them in business simulations. Many of the activities are designed to help students reach goals in both their life and career to be successful leaders in business. Students in this organization achieve greater personal rec-ognition and develop extensive leadership training through many fun and exciting activities including area, state and national competition. Think DECA, think fun, think rewards – think for yourself. Join today. FAMILY, CAREER AND COMMUNITY LEADERS OF AMERICA (FCCLA) (Mrs. Kelley Whites-carver & Mrs. Jeanne Wolff): Family, Career and Community Leaders of America is incorporated as a nonprofit national career and technical student organization for young women and men in Family and Consumer Sciences education. FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN ATHLETES: (Student Led Organization) FCA allows students the opportunity to strengthen their Christian faith through their athletics and/or student activities. FIRST CLASS (Character Education Program) (Mr. Tom Chinske): The goals of this co-curricular activity are for student leaders to facilitate forums for teaching lessons, on dignity and respect, appropriate communications, creating a positive school environment and solving problems creative-ly and responsibly. To become a student leader for First Class, sophomores, juniors and seniors will have the opportunity to apply for membership, by completing an application and attending a training session at the beginning of the school year. FRESHMAN CLASS COUNCIL (Mrs. Janet Kovarik): This council is open to all freshmen and will represent the entire freshman class. The elected Freshman Student Council Class Officers will direct this group. The Freshman Class Council will have bi weekly meetings to organize and plan homecoming activities, community service projects and dances. FUTURE BUSINESS LEADERS OF AMERICA (FBLA) (Mrs. Amanda Carroll & Mr. Sean Crevi-er): is a nonprofit educational association of students preparing for careers in business and busi-ness-related fields. This organization sponsors school and community events offering opportunities

to attend regional, state and national leadership conferences. GUITAR CLUB (Mr. Doug Dusthimer): A club for anyone interested in sharing some time with others playing guitar. Acoustic to electric, novice to advanced all are welcome. Members meet twice per month to jam with friends, learn some basic theory or new tricks, or explore a variety of websites designed to advance all levels of play. GAY STRAIGHT ALLIANCE (GSA) (Mr. Craig Bomgaars & Ms. Jennifer Denis): The GSA strives to create a safe environment for all students by promoting diversity awareness. We address issues of homophobia and discrimination through education, discussion, and activities. The club meets biweekly after school. Membership is open to all students. INTERACT (Mr. Sean Kelly & Mrs. Kelley Whitescarver): Interact is sponsored by the Vernon Hills/Mundelein Area Rotary club and we contribute to local, national, and international charities. Activities include mentoring ESL students, volunteering time with Senior Citizens, participating in the Adopt-A-Family event, along with various fundraisers for our chosen charities. INTERNATIONAL CLUB (Mrs. Jodi Cusick-Acosta & Mrs. Megan Geltner): The VHHS Interna-tional Club is a student run organization comprised of student officers and members, which meet on a biweekly basis. This club exists to provide students of all cultures an opportunity to share their intercultural experiences. This club invites students to share experiences of having tra-veled abroad, and international students to share about coming to the United States and being a student in a new school. The club also provides a place for students to practice their English as well as practice their foreign languages. In addition, the International Club features guest speakers to help students celebrate the ethnic and cultural diversity within our school. INTRAMURALS (Mr. Brian McDonald): Intramural activities are offered to VHHS students throughout the year. Programs are offered satisfying student interest and when facilities are available. Announcements concerning these activities can be found in the daily bulletin. Listen for details of your favorite activity and get involved. JUNIOR CLASS COUNCIL (Ms. Emily Kline & Ms. Ellen Macias): This council is open to all juniors and will represent the entire junior class. The elected Junior Student Council Class Officers will direct this group. The Junior Class Council will have biweekly meetings to organize and plan homecoming activities, community service projects and dances. JUNIOR STATE OF AMERICA (JSA) (political debate club) (Mrs. Eileen Orzoff-Baranyk). Junior State is a non-partisan organization run by the Junior Statesmen Foundation. Members gain valuable public speaking, critical thinking, and leadership skills. Through debates, thought talks, and other activities students are able to develop these skills in a non-competitive environ-ment. The emphasis for the student is on communicating their own opinions, persuading their peers and learning by listening to the opinions and thoughts from others. These valuable skills are necessary to help today’s students become leaders for tomorrow. We also participate in three conferences throughout the year, including a mock Congress in Washington, D.C. LACROSSE: (Girls’ coach: Mr. Bob Thompson, Boys’ coach: Mr. Brian Miller) Lacrosse is a spring club in which both JV and Varsity teams compete. Beginners are highly encouraged. MATH TEAM (Mrs. Cheryl Ballenger, Ms. Jessica Chapman & Steve Korney): If you like com-putations and competition, the Math Team is for you! The activities provide students with con-tests to enrich classroom instruction within the mathematics curriculum. Students meet weekly to prepare for competition at the local, state and national level. MODEL UNITED NATIONS (Mr. Jim Seward): Trains students to understand the problems of different countries throughout the world. Students interested should apply and train for the annual excursion to a national Model United Nations Conference. NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY (Mrs. Wendy Meister-Louria & Mrs. Kim Raciak): Membership into the VHHS chapter of the National Honor Society is one of the highest honors a student can receive at Vernon Hills High School. Students who have a GPA of 3.4 or better are invited to

apply for membership after completing the first and/or second semesters junior year. OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CLUB (Mr. Jerry Miceli & Mr. Kedric Greenawalt): This club stems from a philosophy that people are more capable than they perceive themselves to be and this club gives them the opportunity to try new activities in a supportive atmosphere, such as skiing, canoeing, climbing, hiking etc. Through the many challenges offered in our club, we provide a direction for learning. We hope to instill in our students the belief that individuals can and will make a difference. ROBOTICS (Mr. Jay Walgren): Build and program robots using LEGO’s. A team of 18 Vernon Hills students learn about the different aspects of robotics and engineering careers. The Vernon Hills robotics team practices several times a week and competes about once a month. The robotics team is active from November through March. SENIOR CLASS COUNCIL (Ms. Rebecca Austin & Mr. Ben Horwitz): This council is open to all seniors and will represent the entire senior class. The elected Senior Student Council Class Officers will direct this group. The Senior Class Council will have biweekly meetings to organize and plan homecoming activities, community service projects, dances, graduation activities and selecting the Senior Class gift. SOPHOMORE CLASS COUNCIL (Mrs. Jamie Meyer): This council is open to all sophomores and will represent the entire sophomore class. The elected Sophomore Student Council Class Officers will direct this group. The Sophomore Class Council will have biweekly meetings to organize and plan homecoming activities, community service projects and dances. SUPPORTING PEERS AND REACHING KIDS (SPARK): (Mrs. Margaret Pither): This club is an alcohol and other drug prevention club that sponsors events like Operation Snowball, Snow-flake and trains students in leadership development through conventions like the IDEA Confe-rence and Illinois Teen Institute. This Club has a goal to motivate other students in the impor-tance and fun of leading drug free lives and making responsible decisions. SPECIAL OLYMPICS (Mr. Andy Compton): Special Olympics is an athletic organization for mentally handicapped students that practices and competes throughout the entire school year. Special Olympics strive to give mentally handicapped students the opportunities in athletics we all are fortunate to have as well as becoming an equal part of the student body. We encourage the development and focus on the enhancing of our athletes physical fitness and motor skills, self-confidence, self-image, friendships, and social skills, skills that will be used the rest of their lives. Athletes will participate in aquatics, track and field, floor hockey, soccer, football, weight training, snowshoeing, softball, gymnastics, bocce ball, bowling, basketball, volleyball and more. Special Olympics encourages all students, from grades 9-12 and any member of the school and its community to take part. It is a tremendous experience, one that will may influence your life for years to come. SPEECH TEAM (Mr. Sean Conroy): The VHHS Speech Team is a spirited group of individuals interested in communication, acting and performing skills. All are invited. Competition runs from October to February. SPOTLIGHT (Fashion Club) (Ms. Rebeca Garcia & Ms. Sarah Stoub): The spotlight is on you in the theater of fashion! All students are welcome to join the club. Hip hop dancing is combined with fashion and member choreographers create the dances for the annual production in March. STRATEGY CLUB (Mr. Sean Conroy): Strategy club creates a venue for gamers to share their love of their favorite games with others, to find people with a common interest to play games with and to learn new games to play. More importantly, though, students interact in an environment that encourages them to socialize, teach each other, learn from each other, make new friends, work together, play together, and have fun. STUDENT COUNCIL (Mrs. Leslie Nardini & Ms. Jane Wenzel): The Student Council provides a democratic forum where students can address school-related topics maintaining communication

among students. Students’ can share ideas, interests, and concerns empowering their voices with administration. Student Council allows students to raise funds for numerous school wide projects assisting the community when they are in need of aid. Being on Student Council is something that will help our students become responsible and active members of the communi-ty. VH20 (Environmental Club) (Ms. Karen Day): VH20’s objectives are to promote environmental awareness and encourage environmental activities at VHHS while networking with existing programs locally, nationally and globally. VICA – SKILLS USA (Mr. Kip Baxter): VICA is open to all students that are involved in skilled areas such as automotive technology, electronics, woodworking, graphic communications, draw-ing, television production, photography and advertising design to mention a few. VICA students compete in their area of expertise at the state and national level. VOICES IN PREVENTION (VIP) (Mrs. Margaret Pither and Ms. Rebecca Austin): This organization performs various kinds of peer education and outreach to youth and teen audiences in the commu-nity having as its focus drug / alcohol prevention and healthy decision-making. Students interested will have an opportunity to try out for opening spots. WHISPERS OF IMMORTALITY (Student Literary Magazine) (Mr. Sean Conroy): All students may submit their poetry, artwork, short stories, and photography to Whispers of Immortality. The students who join the staff decide which works will be published, and how to layout and design the pages of this professionally published magazine that comes out at the end of the year. Whispers meet once or twice weekly, and on occasional Saturdays as we near publica-tion. Students with a creative flair who are interested in the creative endeavors of their peers are encouraged to join us! WORLDWIDE YOUTH IN SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING (WYSE) (SCIENCE TEAM) (Mr. Josh Ravenscraft): WYSE has three competition teams. The Academic Challenge Team is a group of fourteen students who are selected to participate in competition offered in seven sub-ject areas. The TEAMS group consists of eight selected students who work cooperatively to solve engineering problems. The SCIENCE OPPORTUNITY group consists of eight selected students who work both individually and cooperatively to answer questions related to all areas of science. *Student Activities are supplemented from the profits realized through school contracts with companies on items such as class rings, beverages, and photography. *All profits from fundraisers must be used for the benefit of students.

VERNON HILLS HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL SONG

“Roar Cougar”

Roar and Shout for Vernon Hills

The Cougar’s on the prowl. The other team will shake and tremble

When they hear that mighty growl – GO COUGARS!

Bare your claws and see how they run! End this fight before it’s begun!

ROAR, hear the Cougar roar Keep it up ‘til the game is won.

GO COUGARS, GO! GO COUGARS, GO!

GO BLUE, GO!