E.J. King HS: Policies and Procedures

For safety reasons, all visitors and volunteers must report to the school’s front office immediately upon entering the school.

Due to COVID-19, schools are currently minimizing volunteers/visitors in the classroom.

A visitor/volunteer is someone who is not a school employee or enrolled student and enters the school during operating hours. The school administration has the final determination on visitors/volunteers authorized to be at the school. When visiting, visitors/volunteers may go only to the approved area indicated as their destination when signing in at the front office. All visitors will receive an appropriate visitor’s badge, which is to be displayed conspicuously at all times while on school grounds. Any change to the designated location must be approved by the school’s front office before the visitor/volunteer can access a different location within the school. Upon finishing their visit, visitors/volunteers must check out at the front office, return the visitor’s badge, and exit the school. Parents are welcome to visit the school and classrooms to observe the school’s programs for brief periods of time that do not interfere with instruction. Approval by school personnel is required for this type of visitation.

Learn more about volunteering at your school's Get Involved page.

DoDEA school administrators, in partnership with sponsors/family members, students, and military leaders, promote communication through the establishment of advisory committees to address issues (school initiatives, procedures and policies) locally. This is a system-wide way for parents to get involved in their child’s local school. Consult your child’s school to learn more about school advisory committees.

Learn more about SAC's at your school's Get Involved page.

Proof of Eligibility: The sponsor does not need to be present at registration, as long as the parent or other adult registering the child has all the necessary paperwork, in accordance with DoDEA Regulation 1342.13, “Eligibility Requirements for Education of Elementary and Secondary School-Age Dependents in Overseas Areas,” September 20, 2006, as amended, and DoD Instruction 1342.26, “Eligibility Requirements for Minor Dependents to Attend Department of Defense Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools (DDESS),” March 4, 1997. 

The following documents are necessary to complete the registration process:

1. Proof of age;
2. Medical records, including information on medical conditions, medications, and all dates and types of immunizations;
3. Official documents to support eligibility (e.g., letter of employment, contract, permanent change of station [PCS] orders, etc.); and
4. Proof of on-base residence (applies to students enrolling in DoD domestic schools).

Contact the registrar at your child’s school to update your child’s information or visit your school's registration page for more information on enrollment. 

In accordance with the policy stated in DoDEA Regulation 2095.01, “School Attendance,” August 26, 2011, as amended, school attendance is mandatory. All students are required to attend school to ensure continuity of instruction and that they successfully meet academic standards and demonstrate continuous educational progress. School attendance is a joint responsibility between the parent or sponsor, student, classroom teacher, school personnel, and, in some cases, the Command. Students with excessive school absences (or tardiness) shall be monitored by the Student Support Team to assist in the completion of all required work and successful mastery of course objectives.

Daily student attendance is identified based upon a quarter of the school day formula. Students will be identified as present or absent, based on the following criteria:

1. Absent up to 25% of the school day = absent one-quarter of the school day
2. Absent between 26%–50% of the school day = absent one-half of the school day
3. Absent 51%–75% of the school day = absent three-quarters of the school day
4. Absent 76%–100% of the school day = full-day absence

DoDEA considers the following conditions to constitute reasonable cause for absence from school for reasons other than school-related activities:

1. Personal illness;
2. Medical, dental, or mental health appointment;
3. Serious illness in the student’s immediate family;
4. A death in the student’s immediate family or of a relative;
5. Religious holiday;
6. Emergency conditions such as fire, flood, or storm;
7. Unique family circumstances warranting absence and coordinated with school administration;
8. College visits that cannot be scheduled on non-school days; and
9. A pandemic event.

Unexcused absences may result in school disciplinary actions. An absence from school or a class without written verification from a parent or sponsor will be unexcused. Student attendance is calculated based upon the date of enrollment in a DoDEA school, which may occur anytime during the school year. Student attendance monitoring is designed to provide a continuum of intervention and services to support families and children in keeping children in school and combating truancy and educational neglect. Parents should notify the school of their child’s absence 30 minutes after the start of the school day.  Too many unexcused absences may trigger the Student Support Team to convene.

More about DoDEA Attendance Policy (dodea.edu/StudentServices/Attendance)

The Principal may authorize an accelerated withdrawal of a student who must withdraw from school 20 or less instructional days prior to the end of a semester, in accordance with Section 3.1.d, of DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1367.01, “High School Graduation Requirements and Policy,” [TBD]. Accelerated withdrawal will only be considered if the parent/sponsor presents PCS orders. The parent or sponsor must present verification of the date required for the student to depart from the school (e.g., PCS orders). All of the conditions of an accelerated study program outlined by the student’s teachers must be met prior to withdrawal in order for grades to be assigned and credit to be granted. Students who withdraw prior to the 20-day limitation of the accelerated withdrawal policy will receive “withdrawal” grades rather than final grades. In this case, the sponsor/parent should notify the school two weeks prior to the date of withdrawal.

This information identifies DoDEA's high school graduation requirements. Students who plan to pursue college athletics should also visit the NCAA Eligibility site to ensure their course taking aligns with NCAA eligibility requirements. The Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children is now formally recognized as part of DoDEA's secondary education policy. Please consult with the school counselor for further guidance or questions regarding graduation requirements.

Requirements

DoDEA graduation requirements differ depending on the year a student enters 9th grade. The requirements are identified below on three separate color-coded documents dated to correspond to the year of initial entry into 9th grade. These documents are intended to help students and parents to determine the number of credits and the distribution of credits by subject area required to receive a DoDEA standard diploma or an honors diploma. Please consult with your school counselor for further guidance or questions.

In which year did your student enter the 9th grade for the first time?

	School Year 2018-19, Class of 2022 Entering 9th grade in school year 2018-19
	School Year 2019-20, Class of 2023 Entering 9th grade in school year 2019-20
	School Year 2020-21, Class of 2024 Entering 9th grade in school year 2020-21
	School Year 2021-22, Class of 2025 Entering 9th grade in school year 2021-22

DoDEA accepts the official courses, grades and earned credits of middle school (grades 7–8) and high school (grades 9–12) students who transfer to a DoDEA school from other DoDEA schools or who earn course credits in an accredited non-DoD system (public or private), correspondence, online, and/or home-school program. The accreditation for the sending school or school system must be from one of the six U.S. regional accrediting associations, one of the U.S. state education agencies, or by a public- or state-supported system of accreditation for public or private education programs in a foreign nation, in accordance with Section 4.7, of DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1367.01. Please contact your child’s school for questions regarding course credit transfer process and approval.

At the beginning of each course or grade level, every DoDEA teacher shall make available information regarding grading policy and course requirements to parents and students. This information will be provided to parents and students by the end of the first month of the school year or by the end of the first month of the semester in the case of a semester course.

If any student demonstrates unsatisfactory progress or achievement, teachers must notify parents with enough time to correct the deficiency. Notification must occur as soon as unsatisfactory achievement is evident, and not later than the midpoint of the nine-week grading period.

Timely and accurate reporting of student progress shall be accomplished for students in grades 4–12, using the approved DoDEA Electronic Gradebook (EGB) System. All assignments (e.g., quizzes, tests, examinations, homework, speeches, etc.) that are used to assess and report student progress shall be promptly evaluated and/or graded, posted in the EGB, and returned to the student. The normal period of evaluation and posting should be no longer than ten calendar days from the day the assignment is collected, with reasonable exceptions for large projects. At a minimum, one assignment or grade should be recorded per week in the EGB System. To create an account and access the EGB System, please visit Gradespeed (dodea.gradespeed.net) for instructions.

A traditional letter grading system will be used for grades 4–12 report marks.

For purposes of calculating a student’s high school GPA, the following scales shall be used:

Homework is one means of developing the necessary skills of independent study and learning for present and future use. Homework promotes organizational skills and a sense of responsibility. It is also an opportunity for parents to become actively involved in their child's learning and for each child to reach his/her full potential. Through homework, students are given the opportunity to complete additional practice and application to strengthen skills; to expand and/or enrich regular class work; to complete work started in class; to make up work due to absence.

Teachers may assign homework as determined necessary to enhance student learning that is taking place in the classroom. Each child works at his/her own pace, so the amount of time needed to complete specific assignments may vary. The types of homework may vary to enable the student to have experience/practice in reading, writing, computational skills, and other subject areas during a given week. Frequency and length of assignments will be grade appropriate. At a very minimum, a child should read or be read to 15-20 minutes nightly

Students are responsible for ensuring that they:

• Understand the homework assignment.
• Take home all books and materials needed to do the assignment.
• Complete the homework in the assigned format and turn it in when it is due.
• Participate actively and cooperatively in the evaluation of their homework when appropriate.

Parents are encouraged to provide an environment which fosters the development of life-long learning skills.

This includes:

• A quiet place to work.
• Necessary materials.
• A regular study time.
• Review the student planner.
• Encouragement and praise.

Your Community School Meals Program

The DoDEA School Meals Program is dedicated to building student health and academic achievement in our communities. Daily access to nutritious foods is the foundation for students to reach their full potential.

• Our program provides parents convenience and reduces stress by providing budget friendly meals that are nutritious, too!
• School meals served during SY21-22 are free to all students in accordance with USDA guidance.
• Our program is a participant of the USDA National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program ensuring the high standards of nutrition of served to your student.

Visit your school's School Meals Program page for more information and the latest school menus.

Students are expected to actively participate in the educational process, including school-sponsored activities in and outside of the classroom, as deemed appropriate. Students should bring to the attention of a school employee behavior or activities that may endanger the safety and well-being of themselves or others.

Students shall:

1. Comply with policies, procedures and standards for student behavior;
2. Refrain from conduct or behavior that is disruptive;
3. Respect the rights and human dignity of other students and all school employees;
4. Attend school and classes regularly, and punctually and make a conscious effort in all classes;
5. Participate in and take advantage of educational opportunities provided by DoDEA schools;
6. Assist school employees in operating a safe school by abiding by the laws of the United States, the local military installation, the host nation, and DoDEA policies, regulations, and procedures;
7. Properly maintain school property and use school property and equipment for educationally authorized purposes;
8. Promptly bring to the attention of a DoDEA school employee behavior or activities that may endanger the safety and well-being of themselves or others and to cooperate with school threat assessment procedures; and
9. Promptly report to the DoDEA School Principal, or another DoDEA school employee, incidents or complaints, including, but not limited to, discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, or non-sexual harassment, based on race, sex, color, national origin, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation or status as a sponsor, parent or legal guardian; intimidation, hazing, bullying (including cyberbullying), or retaliation against persons who report or participate in the investigation of such incidents herein.

Students are expected to dress in a manner that complies with the school’s dress code policy as directed in DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1353.01, “Students Rights and Responsibilities,” April 6, 2021. Please refer to your school’s Web site or school handbook for specific dress code policy.

Student dress and personal grooming are the responsibility of the student and the parents. The school administration reserves the right to advise parents when students come to school dressed in a manner that is disruptive, in poor taste, or affects the health and well-being of the individual or classmates. It is the policy that all individuals will present a good public image, and maintain good order, discipline, and morale appropriate in the Japan AOR. Each individual, whether military or civilian, is an ambassador of the U.S. and the U.S. Armed Forces while in this AOR. As such, individual dress, attire, and conduct should reflect credit upon oneself, the U.S. Armed Forces and the United States.

Students are also expected to be neatly groomed and dressed in clothing that is appropriate for the activities which they will participate in during the school day. Certain clothing and apparel may be considered inappropriate; therefore, students may be sent home for clothing and/or apparel that:

A. is unsafe and unsanitary.

B. is vulgar, offensive, and that represent rude and disrespectful attitudes or actions.

C. contain slogans and /or pictures related to drugs, alcohol, tobacco, violence, weapons, death,

cults, profanity, vulgarity, or lewd and sexual references.

D. includes negative depictions of race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, and gender.

E. is symbolic of gangs or other questionable groups.

F. is perceived as questionable by school or base authorities.

A committee comprised of students, parents, teachers and administration have designated the following dress code:

Acceptable:

• Students will wear neat and clean clothing.
• Both shoulders and armholes should be covered so as not to expose any undergarments.
• Pants, shorts, or skirts should fit at the waist so as not to expose any undergarments.
• The hems of shorts or skirts should extend below the ends of the fingertips when arms are at sides.

Not Acceptable:

• Halter tops, tube tops, midriff tops, or tank tops that expose undergarments.
• One-shouldered tops or shirts, or those that have an altered neck area that allow for one or both shoulders to be exposed.
• Arm holes on all tops should not gap, extend, or open so that body parts or undergarments are exposed.
• Hip-hugger pants exposing the waist or hips, yoga pants, leggings, and tights worn as pants or baggy pants worn excessively below the waist.
• Sagging is strictly prohibited.
• Skirts or shorts worn with tights shorter than the end of fingertips with arms at sides.
• Long skirts with slits above fingertips are also not acceptable
• Clothing, jewelry, or buttons that contain offensive language (such as profanity, sexual content or racial, ethnic, or religious slurs), or display illegal substances (such as tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, etc.).
• Articles that can cause injury to other students, property or self, such as studded bracelets, studded necklaces, chains, etc.
• Dark glasses or sunglasses inside the building, unless medically approved.
• Headgear (males or females) such as bandannas, doo-rags, and sweat bands are not to be worn during the school day.
• Hats and stocking caps may not be worn in any school building during the school day.

COLD WEATHER GUIDELINES (If Applicable)

Sasebo fall and winters are not generally too cold and you can be sure that your child will most likely be outside each day for an extended period of time. Recess is cancelled only in extreme weather conditions and students must walk outside between buildings to lunch and ENCORE and other special classes. Students may also be waiting outside prior to the start of the school day for the entrance time. Please make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather. The following parameters are evidence-based and are used to determine if a child is ready for outdoor play:

• At 50 degrees (F) and lower, all students must have a jacket.
• At 40 degrees (F) and lower, all students must have a winter weight jacket or coat. A fleece and/or hoodie are not considered winter weight.
• At 32 degrees (F) and lower, all students must have gloves, hats or hoods, and be wearing socks. Socks should be high enough so that there is no exposed skin. Shoes should adequately insulate the feet from the cold pavement or snow. Ballet style slippers are not recommended in snowy or wet weather.

Jackets and coats must have functioning zippers and/or buttons. Light weight, short-sleeved shirts can also be a problem during the day, as classroom temperatures vary. Dressing your child in layers is highly recommended.

IDENTIFY YOUR BELONGINGS

Put your child(ren)’s name on everything that belongs to them (inside coats, jackets, hats, and everything else—even lunch boxes / bags and book bags). We want them to be able to identify their belongings. If they came to school with it in the morning, please check to see that they brought it home when they return at the end of the day.

School is our business and students are expected to dress accordingly. Consequences for infractions are:

1st Infraction: If a student is found to be in violation of the dress code, student will be given the opportunity to change or call parents to bring a change before being sent home.

2nd and or more: The above procedure will take place with an addition of assigned detention. School is our business and students are expected to dress accordingly. Administration will make the final determination on the appropriateness of the dress.

Management of student behavior is a responsibility shared by students, sponsors/parents/guardians, teachers, and the military command and school communities in general, in accordance with DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1353.01, “Student Rights and Responsibilities,” April 6, 2021. Student behavioral management consists of teaching and reinforcing positive student attitudes and behaviors. Students shall treat teachers, administrators, and other school staff with courtesy, fairness, and respect; and teachers, administrators, and other school staff shall treat students with courtesy, fairness, and respect. All students will be disciplined in a fair and appropriate manner. School administrators shall operate and maintain a safe school environment that is conducive to learning. School administration will ensure prompt investigation and response to incidents or complaints involving students made by students, parents, teachers, or DoDEA staff members.

In accordance with the policy stated in DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1347.01, “Student Disciplinary Rules and Procedures,” April 7, 2021, discipline shall be progressively and fairly administered. Disciplinary actions include, but are not limited to, verbal reprimands, conferences, detention, time-out, alternative in-school placements, school service programs, community service and counseling programs. Other behavior management techniques will be considered prior to resorting to more formal disciplinary actions that remove a student from school for a suspension (short or long term). Long-term suspension or expulsion following a first offense may be considered when a student poses an immediate threat to his or her safety or the safety of others (e.g., offenses involving firearms or other weapons, fighting or violence, or the possession, use, or sale of drugs). Additional rules and procedures can be reviewed in DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1347.01.

In the wake of school violence throughout the world, it is important to analyze the causes of violence and implement preventive measures to assure that every student and adult will feel secure in the school environment. DoDEA implemented a system-wide Bully Prevention program as a part of the Safe Schools and Character Education program.

Bullying is defined as a means to have power over another and it takes many forms: physical, verbal, and indirect such as gossip and isolation. Bullying leaves long-lasting scars for its victims. Bullies have a higher incidence of antisocial behavior, domestic violence and crime as adults. Society pays a heavy toll for tolerating bullying behavior and bullies.

In DoDEA schools and community, bullying will not go unchallenged and will not be tolerated. All students, staff members, parents and the community play vital roles to ensure our children are not bullied, do not act as bullies, and will not allow others to bully. Our schools have a moral obligation to provide our students and the school community with the proper information, prevention strategies, and defenses to create a safe, accepting and caring environment for all.

Each student, together with the student’s parent or guardian (if applicable), shall acknowledge and sign Form 700, “Use of DoDEA Internet and Use of Information Technology Resources,” before he or she is assigned a user account. In accordance with Enclosure 4 of DoDEA Administrative Instruction 6600.01, “Computer Access and Internet Policy,” February 16, 2010, the following are required of all students:

1. Students shall use DoDEA information technology (IT) resources, including computers, electronic mail, and internet access, only in support of education and for research consistent with the educational objectives of DoDEA; 
2. Students shall respect and adhere to all of the rules governing access to, and use of, DoDEA’s IT resources; 
3. Students shall be polite in all electronic communication;
4. Students shall use courteous and respectful language and/or images in their messages to others;
5. Students shall not swear, use vulgarities, or use harsh, abusive, sexual, or disrespectful language and/or images;
6. Students who misuse DoDEA IT resources are subject to disciplinary measures; and
7. Students’ accounts will be deactivated upon transition out of a DoDEA school.

The signed agreement (Form 700) is to be retained in the administrative office at the student’s school for the duration of the student’s enrollment. A copy will be provided to the student and, if applicable, the student’s parent or guardian.

Use of personal social media between parents/teachers/students is discouraged.  The only acceptable form of social media communication between parents/teachers/students is through official school social media.

Student transportation is defined as the transportation of students from their assigned bus stop to school at the beginning of their school day, during the mid-day and for return to their assigned bus stop at the end of the normal scheduled school day.  DoDEA principals are responsible for monitoring student loading/unloading zones when students are coming and going from school sites, including administering discipline.  A school bus or any device operating to provide student transportation will function as an extension of the school.  The walking distance for students in grade 6 and below should not exceed one mile from the student’s primary residence to the school or designated bus stop.  Students in grades 7–12 may walk up to 1.5 miles from their primary residence to the school or designated bus stop.  These distances may be slightly expanded or contracted to conform to natural boundaries such as housing areas or neighborhoods.  In locations having middle schools, which include grade 6 (i.e., grades 6–8), the walking distance criteria shall be the same as the criteria for grades 7–12.  

Transportation is not authorized to take students to their homes or to eating facilities for their mid-day meal.  No other transportation between the assigned bus stop and the school will be charged to commuting transportation unless stated in a special education student’s IEP and/or required by Section 504 guidelines.  “Curb-to-curb” only applies to students with disabilities who require such service as documented in the student’s IEP.  DoDEA District Superintendents, in coordination with the District Logistics Chief and the supporting military installation commanders, will establish a commuting area to determine eligibility for transportation of dependent students.

Eligibility Rules for Interscholastic Athletic Competitions

School administrators, athletic directors, and coaches shall ensure that the eligibility rules are observed in all DoDDS interscholastic athletic competitions in accordance with in DoDEA Manual 2740.1 and the Far East Programs Procedural Guide (FEPPG) - 15 Oct 2021

Student Travel Eligibility

DoDEA Manual 2740.1 and the Pacific Area Interscholastic Athletics Program Manual provide a uniform interscholastic athletic program and guidance on student travel eligibility. This policy extends to both academic and athletic events.

Athletic Contests: Students must participate in ten days of practice prior to competing in any athletic contest. Athletes participating in consecutive athletic seasons are exempt from the 10-practice rule as long as 10 days have not passed between active participation in the preceding sports season. Students transferring from another school may begin participating in contests immediately if the 10-day practice requirement has been met.

Far East Tournaments: Students may participate in the Far East Tournament if they have been a member of the team/activity for at least one-half of the season. Before departure for any Far East event another parent/player meeting will occur to review the Code-of- Conduct and to discuss expectations while attending the event. Players whose parents do not attend this meeting will not travel to the Far East event and/or participate in any games at the event.

Attendance Prior to Events: Students who do not attend school will not be permitted to participate in or attend any school- sponsored event that same school day, which includes a practice or game. Principals are authorized to make exceptions to this policy. (DoDEA Administrators’ Manual – 1005.1).

School-Wide Rules

Rule 1: Respect your Teachers and the Professional Staff

- Listen to teachers, substitutes, aides and do what they ask.

Rule 2: Be kind to one another

- Be nice to other students and adults. Use words like: please, thank you, you’re welcome and excuse me.

Rule 3: Think before you act

- Think, before you do something that might violate a school or class procedure. We have very few rules, but there are many procedures and you are expected to know and follow the expectations for both.

Bus Procedures

PARENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONDUCT OF THEIR STUDENTS ON BUSES AND AT BUS STOPS. Riding the bus is a student privilege and all students are expected to adhere to following the bus rules. Failure to follow the rules can result in counseling, and other measures including temporary removal from the bus and permanent removal of bus riding privileges. To ensure the safety of students while riding the bus, SES bus riders are expected to:

• Obey the driver or adult.

• Stay properly seated.

• Enter and exit the bus safely and always show your bus pass.

• Keep your hands, feet and other body parts to yourself.

• No throwing of items.

• Keep arms and hands inside the bus.

• Remain quiet and do not disturb the driver or others.

• No profanity, smoking, prohibited items or vandalism.

• No eating, drinking or chewing gum.

• Be responsible, be safe

General grading information is as follows:

• Student report cards are issued every 9 weeks. The first and third report cards are emailed to the contact on file, and the second and final report cards are mailed to the base P.O. Box.
• A student who is starting school for the first time that school year must have been enrolled 20 school days to receive grades for that quarter.
• Grades for a student transferring to a Japanese school or from another school district will be averaged with the current grade to determine the report card grade.

Students in grades 4-12 will also have access to the online grade book called GradeSpeed. Each parent is strongly encouraged to establish their own account to monitor their students’ academic success and attendance online.

Contact the main office or school’s Education Technologist, William Arnot, for login information. Grade Speed parent portal information: https://www.dodea.edu/Gradespeed/index.cfm

The DoDEA grading scale is as follows:

90-100= A
80-89 = B
70-79 =C
60-69 = D
59 and below is Failing= (F)

• M=Missing (calculated as a zero in grade book)
• I=Incomplete (is not computed in the calculation)

Mid-quarter progress reports are distributed as a means of communicating progress for those students at risk of receiving a D or F at the end of the quarterly marking period. Parents should not hesitate to contact their student's teacher if they have questions or concerns about their student's progress. Do not wait until report cards are issued if you have a concern regarding your student’s progress. Timely and accurate reporting of student progress shall be accomplished using the approved DoDEA Gradebook System – GradeSpeed

INCOMPLETE GRADES
The grade of incomplete "I" may be given to a student in a subject to complete the required assignments due to late entry, prolonged illness, or excessive approved absence from school.

USE of the WITHDRAWN “WP” and “WF” Mark
If a student withdraws from a course on or before the 10th school day (or its equivalent), no notation is made on the transcript. The following notations on the transcript will be made for withdrawals made between the 11th-19th school day of the semester: Grade of “WP” (Withdrew Passing) or “WF” (Withdrew Failing), respective to the grade earned at the time of withdrawal. Courses may not be dropped after 20 days into the school quarter. Grades of “WP” or “WF” are not used in GPA calculation, and credit is not awarded.

GRADE POINT AVERAGE (Secondary)
The GPA for all students is calculated on an equitable basis using the same DoDEA quality point value system within the student information system as the basis of calculation. All high school courses are taken in grades 9-12, except where noted in the Administrative Instruction 2000.1, are used in computing GPAs. High school course credits received for courses taken in grades 7 and 8 will not be used to calculate the student's high school GPA. The GPA is calculated as the following:

Total Quality Points Awarded / Total Credits Attempted = GPA

Further specific information may be found in DoDEA Administrative Instruction 2000.1 page 20.

DoDEA students participate in a variety of system-wide standardized assessments. Your school will share information with you about the specific assessments and the schedule for the assessments your students will participate in.

Tardies:
Students arriving at school after the instructional day begins are considered tardy. A student who is more than 9 minutes tardy to any class should report to the office for a late slip before going to his/her classroom. Parents should report to the office to sign in their children. Students who are tardy due to government transportation are excused. Students are responsible for making up all missed work when arriving late to class. The passing time between classes is adequate to get from one class to another.

Students should plan ahead for the need to go to their lockers during class changes. The classroom teachers and registrar will closely monitor tardiness and chronic tardiness will be referred to the administration for appropriate action. The tracking of tardies, and subsequent disciplinary actions, will start over each quarter for all classes. Parents may be contacted if it is noted that a student has numerous unexcused tardies.

Excessive tardies will result in the following disciplinary action:

• 3 tardies to any class = 1 after school detention with a 24-hour notice
• 4-5 tardies to any class = 2 after school detentions with a 24-hour notice
• 6 or more tardies to any class = office referral and parental contact
• No show = reassignment at the discretion of the teacher with parental contact or office referral with parental contact.

How Parents Can Help:

• Schedule medical and dental appointments outside of school hours.
• Schedule vacations during school breaks.
• Schedule Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves to coincide with summer breaks or other scheduled school breaks.
• When moving, check school calendars to be aware of important school dates (beginning/ending of the school year; testing dates, breaks, etc.).
• Make it a habit to contact their child's teachers/principals to arrange to pick up missed schoolwork, either in advance if the absence is known,
• 40 or the same day child is absent.

Appointments or Illness
Students will not be released from school on the basis of a telephone call. Parents must sign out and sign in their children when taking them to appointments and back to school. When students are sent home because of illness, they are to be accompanied by their parent(s) or authorized guardian/emergency contact.

Procedures for Absence Notification
Parents are asked to call the front office when they know their child will be absent. The sponsor must provide the front office with a written explanation of each absence when the child returns to school. The sponsor’s note, by itself, does not constitute an excused absence.

Release of Students Policy
During the school day, students will be released only to a parent or to the person named as the emergency contact on the registration form. The only exceptions will be a military unit has designated someone to pick up the student when parents and emergency contacts could not be reached. Contact the Principal in cases of emergency.

All of EJ King’s students are expected to behave in a manner that will enhance the safety and welfare of the entire community. This is best accomplished when students FOLLOW DIRECTIONS, SHOW RESPECT, ARE HONEST AND CONSIDERATE OF OTHERS.

Appropriate school behavior is both a DoDEA and military responsibility for ensuring the proper conduct of dependents in the command. Appropriate behavior enhances learning in the classroom and promotes positive relationships with the Japanese community. School administrators have an obligation to keep military or civilian authorities informed of serious or repeated misbehavior when it is apparent that such actions contribute adversely to the American reputation overseas.

Courtesy and good manners, as well as common sense, should dictate student behavior on school grounds. The following rules must be observed:

• No use of headphones (wireless or non-wireless) in passing between classes or while in motion due to safety concerns with ongoing construction. Students may resume with use upon reaching their destination.
• Grades 6 -10 students must stay on school grounds during the school day, except for students that reside on Sasebo Main Base housing and have a signed student release lunch form by parent/guardian. It is the expectation that students eat their lunch during this time period and report back to school on time.
• Grade 6-10 students are to stay in the vicinity of the assigned areas during the lunch period (unless written permission to have home lunch is on file).
• Throwing rocks, sticks, sand, etc. are prohibited.
• Contact sports or games, such as football, baseball, softball, basketball, and wrestling are not permitted on school grounds for safety reasons.
• Playground equipment is designed to be used by elementary students only.
• Personal playground equipment such as bats, balls, and gloves are brought to school only when authorized by a supervising teacher.
• Personal toys, trading cards, etc. are brought to school only when authorized by a sponsor of a specific event.
• Students are expected to dispose of their trash in trash cans throughout the campus and after meals in the cafeteria.
• Students are prohibited from congregating in off-limit areas, such as, the MWR Teen Center area, hallways, door entrances, bathrooms, stairwells, parking lots, gym, construction sites, and other areas that are announced in the daily bulletins.

Bicycles

Bicycle racks are provided on the school grounds; however, the school cannot accept responsibility for the loss or damage of bicycles brought to school. Please ensure your bicycle is parked in the designated area(s) and locked.

Bullying

Information regarding DoDEA’s Bullying Awareness and Prevention Program may be found at the following website:

http://www.dodea.edu/StudentServices/BullyingPrevention/index.cfm

What is bullying? Bullying is defined as aggressive behavior that is intentionally cruel physically, verbally, or emotionally that differs from typical peer disagreements and involves an imbalance of power or strength. It is considered to be an extremely serious matter and is not acceptable in any form.

Typically, bullying behaviors are repeated or have the potential to be repeated over time. A child who is being bullied has a hard time defending themselves. Bullying can take many forms depending on the age level but may include behaviors such as: hitting or punching (physical bullying); teasing or name-calling (verbal bullying); intimidation using gestures or social exclusion (nonverbal, bullying or emotional bullying); and sending insulting messages by e-mail (cyberbullying). DoDEA uses various resources to teach all students and adults at the school about bullying. One of our primary resources is www.stopbullying.gov.

Verbal bullying: Name-calling, Mocking, Taunting, Harassment, Swearing, Lying about others, etc.
Physical bullying: Spitting, Hitting, Kicking, Slapping, Grabbing, Unwanted physical contact, etc.
Intimidation: Taking/Damaging/Destroying property, Threatening violence, Retaliation for reporting incidents to parents or school authorities, etc.

Note: Cyberbullying of students on social media sites (whether or not it is posted from a school computer) will also be considered for possible disciplinary action.

In addition to E. J. King’s Dress Code, E.J. King recognizes the Commander Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) current civilian dress code standards. Students enrolled at E.J. King Middle High School are on CFAS because they are accompanying either a military or civilian sponsor assigned to this area. Consistent with their status as guests in the host nation, students will refrain from wearing clothing that would offend our host country either by style or message. Additionally, dress in the school environment should contribute to the overall learning environment and should not detract from it.

The E. J. King Middle High School Dress Code is in effect at all school functions during and after. To be fashionably dressed is not necessary, but to be appropriately dressed is required. Students, as well as parents, should assume responsibility for acceptable appearance. Students not in dress code compliance will remain in the main office until a change of clothing is provided. Consistent with the aforementioned objectives, the following is the dress code for E.J. King Middle High School regardless of the weather:

• Students will wear neat and clean clothing. Both shoulders and armholes should be covered so as not to expose any undergarments.
• Pants, shorts, or skirts should fit at the waist so as not to expose any undergarments. Clothing must be fastened in a way that undergarments are not seen.
• The hems of shorts or skirts should extend below the ends of the fingertips when arms are at sides.
• No excessive skin or cleavage

Students are not to wear the following:

• Any CFAS Sasebo inappropriate civilian base attire
• Halter tops, tank tops/muscle shirts/shirts with sleeves removed, midriff tops, tank tops that expose undergarments, or any undershirt designed to be worn as an undergarment.
• Tank tops that are not 2 inches in width
• Sheer clothing-Tank tops worn under sheer garments must meet the acceptable width (2 inches) and not expose any undergarments
• If an outer garment is removed, then all undergarments (t-shirts, tank tops, dresses, etc.) needs to follow the dress code
• One-shouldered tops or shirts, or those that have an altered neck area that allows for one or both shoulders to be exposed.
• Armholes on all tops should not gap, extend, or open so that body parts or undergarments are not exposed.
• Hip-hugger pants exposing the waist or hips, or baggy pants worn excessively below the waist are not allowed. Sagging is strictly prohibited.
• Skirts, shorts, dresses (including shirt and sweater dresses) shorter than the end of fingertips with arms at sides. Shorts and skirts must reach mid-thigh even those worn over leggings. Long skirts with slits above fingertips are also not acceptable.
• Leggings, stretch pants, tights, yoga pants, or spandex pants are not permitted as standalone pants.
• Leggings underneath shorts, skirts, and dresses and the shorts, skirts, or dress does not meet the fingertip length requirement (leggings do not take the place of the fingertip guideline).
• Clothing with holes, rips, or tears in which skin is visible underneath is not permissible. Clothing with holes or other tears require the use of an undergarment which covers the the skin. Jeans with holes must be manufactured with the holes in them to be permitted.
• Frayed or worn garments with frays.
• Pajama tops and bottoms unless on designated days, such as spirit week.
• Clothing, jewelry, or buttons that contain offensive language (such as profanity, sexual content or racial, ethnic, or religious slurs), or display illegal substances (such as tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, etc.).
• Articles that can cause injury to other students or property (studded bracelets, studded necklaces, or chains, including wallet chains).
• Dark glasses or sunglasses inside the building, unless medically approved.
• Pajamas, bedroom shoes, or other clothing clearly not designed to be worn outside of one’s home.
• Headgear (males or females) such as hats, bandannas, scarves, doo- rags, stocking caps, sweat bands, hoods, etc. inside any building (specifically, this means the classrooms, gym, the local eateries which effectively serve as our cafeteria), during the school day or during any E. J. King events.
• Headgear worn backwards or sideways.
• Shower shoes, rubber/plastic flip flops with toe-thong, spiked heels higher than two 2 inches.
• Headphones/earphones/earbuds on person must be put away unless at authorized times
• PE attire must meet base/school dress code

NOTE: If natural everyday movement causes garments to become out of dress code (length of skirt or dress, sagging, rising of a shirt, etc.) then garments are most likely too small or tight and are not acceptable according to the above policy.

Consequences for Dress Code Violations:

1. First Offense---AFTER SCHOOL DETENTION 60 mins
2. Second Offense--- AFTER SCHOOL DETENTION 120 mins
3. Third Offense--- SATURDAY SCHOOL
4. Fourth Offense---SUSPENSION (1 DAY) AND EVERY TIME THEREAFTER

A committee comprised of students, parents, teachers, and administration has designated the following dress code:

• No headgear or hats to be worn inside the buildings (unless medically sanctioned or approval based on religion).
• No sunglasses inside buildings (unless medically sanctioned).
• No spaghetti straps, halter tops, tube tops, one-shoulder tops/shirts, camisole tops, or muscle shirts (female tops must be at least 3 fingers width at the top of the shoulder).
• No bare midriffs or torso showing.
• No pajamas shall be worn unless with special permission, such as spirit week, and must be dress code appropriate.
• No undergarments showing while sitting or standing, including sagging pants/shorts/skirts/joggers.
• No obscene slogans or gestures on clothing.
• Shorts and miniskirts may be worn provided they are no shorter than mid-thigh. Typically, mid-thigh is measured by arms resting naturally at your sides, palms lying flat against the thigh, and the hem no shorter than the tip of the middle finger.
• Long skirts with slits above fingertips are not acceptable.
• Safety requires no bedroom slippers, shower shoes, and no spiked heels higher than two (2) inches.

School is our business and students are expected to dress accordingly. Consequences for infractions are:

• 1st Infraction: If a student is found to be in violation of the dress code, the student will be given the opportunity to change or call parents to bring a change before being sent home.
• 2nd and or more: The above procedure will take place with an addition of assigned detention. School is our business and students are expected to dress accordingly. The administration will make the final determination on the appropriateness of the dress.

This table is not all-inclusive. For further details, please refer to the policies in this Handbook and with the E.J. King Middle/ High School Administration

Parents who wish to remove their child from school before the end of the day (for appointments, etc.) should send a note to the teacher and the office as soon as this need is known. If there is a change in a student’s regular transportation routine for a particular day, parents are asked to notify the main office prior to 1200.

For safety purposes, no child will be released for any kind of appointment without the parent or other authorized adult coming to the school in person to check the student out at the main office by completing an early dismissal slip. Students cannot be released to non-family members without written verification from the sponsor and please note that a Government-issued photo ID is required. The student will be called down to the office; parents or authorized adults are welcome to wait in the office lobby.

According to the DoDEA Homework Policy Letter (2000.9), the development of study skills must be an integral part of DoDEA regional, district, and school educational policies. DoDEA strongly supports the philosophy that homework is a necessary adjunct to school life, which serves different purposes according to the student's grade level.

To enable better communication between teachers, students, and parents and to ease the confusion that sometimes occurs with grading, it is recommended that the school use the following indicators in GradeSpeed:

Blank Grade: Assignment not yet graded
I (incomplete): Assignment not yet turned in but still excused

• Excused absences such as illness or Far East events
• Teacher made specific arrangements/modifications with individual students to receive more time
• A zero (0) has not been assigned

M (missing): Assignment not turned in, deadline past

• Unexcused absence
• Extra time given for excused absence has past
• Zero (0) on the assignment
• Assignment may or may not be made up depending on teacher discretion.

E (excused): Assignment excused—student does not need to complete

• Specific situations as determined by individual teachers

0(zero): Assignment completed and turned in but student did not receive any credit

• No correct answers
• Assignment was plagiarized

When entering assignments into GradeSpeed, teachers will utilize the “assigned” and “due” date categories so students and parents will be correctly informed.

• Teachers can still edit assignments and change due dates as needed
• If teachers have the same class on A and B days they will note in their syllabus how they enter these dates, always A-day date, always B-day date, etc.

Teachers may assign academic detention before or after school as a safety net to ensure academic success. Please refer to teacher’s individual syllabus for more specific information. Students will receive at least a 24-hour notice upon receipt of assigned academic opportunity. Along with assigned teacher detention, E.J. King also offers FREE after-school tutoring from 2:30 – 5:30 PM from a certified teacher on staff, as well as a DoDEA activity school bus to Hario Village. Students are released at 5:15 PM to have time to walk and catch the activity bus. It is asked that a student remain in tutoring the entire time if they live in Hario Village and will be riding the school bus for accountability and liability concerns. The parent must email (not written) the teacher that is conducting the voluntary tutorial session if child(ren) must leave before 5:15 P.M. If academic detention is assigned by a teacher (NOT VOLUNTARY), one may NOT leave the session early, even with parent permission, without completing another day of assigned detention.

There will be no academic detention assigned by a teacher on Tuesdays from 1:30-3:00 P.M. due to professional development and/or collaborative sessions. The days of the week that FREE tutoring in all subjects are offered at E. J. King MHS are Mon., Wed., Thurs., and Fri. Saturday School is offered from 0900-1200 when assigned or requested.

Students in 11th and 12th grade are permitted to leave campus during lunchtime. They must sign out at the main office, obtain a pass, and keep it on them until they return to school. Students (Grades 6-12) who live in Dragon Vale or Fiddler’s Green are permitted to leave campus with parent permission. Parents must complete the off-campus form and turn it into the main office. Students with the signed form will receive a permanent lunch pass to use instead of signing out at the student affairs office daily. Students who are a part of clubs that meet at School Age Care must also have parent permission to leave campus to attend meetings. Students in clubs will receive a pass from the club sponsor. The parent permission form is located in the main office. This program is a privilege and can be taken away if misused. Students caught leaving campus without a pass will be reported to the office for disciplinary action. It is the expectation that lunch is consumed during the lunch period (not in class) and students return to campus on time. Students who return to school tardy may have this privilege revoked.

Ceremonies and their dates with criteria for academic honors will be advertised via the school newsletter and Facebook page. Recipients and their parents will be notified via email from the school counselor.

Lockers are provided for student use and convenience. They are considered school property and are subject to search at any time. Students are cautioned against bringing high value items to school or storing those items in their locker as the school is not responsible for loss, damage, or theft of personal belongings. Lockers are available for student use and are assigned at the beginning of the year. A student does not have to receive a locker assignment; however, please see the main office if a locker assignment is desired at a later date within the school year. The school provides combinations for all lockers, but students are expected to remember their locker number and combination. General locker rules and guidelines are as follows:

• There should be no graffiti inside or outside lockers. There should be no writing on the lockers and no stickers on the inside or outside of the lockers. Flyers advertising school events are acceptable.
• Pictures may be taped inside of the lockers only. No obscene pictures or drawings are permitted. Students will be asked to remove anything that is deemed inappropriate. Please use good judgment in deciding what to display in the locker.
• Avoid slamming locker doors.
• Keep locker area clean.
• Students should not share lockers.
• Students may not exchange lockers. All students will be held accountable for the locker assigned by the office. Students who exchange lockers without prior authorization will be subject to disciplinary consequences.
• Vandalism of lockers will result in suspension.

Each student is accountable for DoDEA textbooks, library books, and/or other instructional materials issued for his/her use. Materials should be handled with care to keep them intact and clean for the next student who will use them. In the event of loss, destruction or misuse of materials or U.S. property, sponsors will be held responsible for reimbursement of the item.

Schools will follow procedures specific to the Sasebo Navy Base command. The decision to close the school is made by the Base Commander in coordination with school officials. There are times when weather situations could result in school being closed. Please check the school’s Facebook page for the latest information, respond to the AtHoc system, and/or contact EJ King Middle-High School at DSN 252-3059 for details regarding notification procedures.

Students who are suspended or expelled from school are not eligible to be on school grounds or at school-related activities. These activities are intended for students, family, and community members who promote a positive and appropriate environment. For accountability and safety reasons, all visitors must sign-in at the Main Office before entering classrooms or attending school activities.

Participation in school-sponsored activities is limited to those students that are currently enrolled at the school. Students are to maintain the school dress code. Student conduct is expected to conform to the established school rules and code of conduct. Loitering in the parking lot or other areas of the school is not allowed. Parents are responsible for a student’s transportation to and from school activities.

School sponsors and chaperones enforce the following rules:

• Students must be in attendance for all classes the day of the activity. If a student is too ill to attend classes, s/he should refrain from attending school activities later in the day.
• Each activity has specific guidelines stipulating who may attend and these guidelines apply to all attendees.
• Signed administration approval is required for all visitors prior to attending a school activity/event.
• Each student attending the activity must produce an ID card to exit and enter the military base.
• Students are required to complete a King IRS Assignment Sheet, to include teachers’ signatures, prior to attending any school sponsored activity where two or more days of classroom instruction and/or assignments will be missed.

EJ King’s technology plan:

• ENCOURAGE individuals to use technology more and to use it more effectively.
• TRAIN individuals to use technology more and to use it more effectively.
• INCREASE AVAILABILITY of tools for individuals to use technology more and to use it more effectively.

The following Bring Your Own Technology plan/guideline is in support or EJ King’s current technology plan of encouraging students and staff to use technology more frequently, effectively, and innovatively. The BYOT plan/guideline also supports DoDEA’s purpose of preparing students for college, career, and life by teaching the appropriate use of personal devices in learning/work situations.

BYOT Plan/Guidelines for EJKHS Students and Staff

1. Mobile technology devices include, but are not limited to laptops, netbooks, tablets, iPads, iPod Touches, smartphones and eReaders for the use in the classroom for educational purposes, such as reading.

2. Students are NOT required to bring a personally owned technology device to school.

• Students will NOT be penalized (in grade or participation) for not bringing a mobile device to school either due to choose or lack of ownership.
• DoDEA, EJKHS, and/or the Japan district will not be responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen items.

3. Students may use personally owned mobile technology devices at school for educational purposes only when permission is granted by the applicable teacher.

• Devices may be used ONLY with EXPLICIT permission from the supervising teacher.

Students will NOT use headphones during transitions (passing periods while walking, walking on- campus) due to on-going construction and safety concerns.

• Teachers will NOT be required to implement the BYOT in their classroom. BYOT is intended to open opportunities for increased innovative technology use.
• Students will not be able to print from their devices at school.

4. Before bringing a personally owned mobile technology device to school, students should:

• Record its model/serial number and maintain that information at home
• Clearly label the device and peripherals (cables, headphones) with the student’s first and last names.
• Return the signature form with all required checks and signatures indicating full understanding and acceptance of this plan/guideline agreement.

5. Since students are on their own personal devices and networks, DoDEA employees cannot be held responsible for all content which students have access. However, students are always still responsible for complying with the Student Code of Conduct, , Student Technology Acceptable Use Policies and Guidelines, and the conditions outlined in this document.

6. Students must obtain permission from a teacher (or administrator with teacher’s knowledge) before recording, taking pictures, or publishing images, information, or works of individuals or groups. Recordings and pictures may be taken for teacher approved projects only, and permission must be obtained for each instance ahead of time.

7. Personal technology devices must be kept on “silent” during class except when used for educational purposes with teacher permission.

8. Students must keep electronic comments and posts relevant to the course content and consistent with educational purposes.

• Devices confiscated will not be afforded the presumption of privacy for any data stored on the device needed in investigating violations of applicable law and/or school policies.

9. As a recommendation, any mobile technology device that is brought to school should have a fully charged battery at the beginning of the day. There may not be opportunities to recharge the batteries during the day; however, students should take the device home on a daily basis to recharge the battery.

10. Students will not have access to the DoDEA computer network (wired or wireless).

• EJKHS is not responsible for charges that may occur from accessing any connection that the student may choose to use.
• Teachers may not require a student to use a network connection on a device.

11. It is not the responsibility of EJKHS staff to troubleshoot personal devices during the school day. Students should check the owner’s manual of the device for information about network connectivity or specific features.

• DoDEA, the Japan district and/or EJKHS are not responsible for devices that lock, freeze up or don’t perform during/after the authorized/unauthorized use of the device at EKJHS.

12. School personnel may confiscate any technology device that is used for non-educational purposes during class or any device that is a disruption at any time.

13. Any technology device used to bully, threaten, or endanger the physical safety or emotional well- being of others will be confiscated, held for disciplinary action, and if necessary, provided to law enforcement authorities.

14. Personally owned technology devices not retrieved by students or parents by the end of the school year will be disposed of, and when feasible, recycled.

15. Campus leadership will determine if the use of student owned technology devices is for personal purposes or educationally authorized activities/use if there is a question of appropriate use.

Parents may wish their child to carry a cellular telephone for safety and security reasons, but because of their potential for disruption in classrooms, students may not use cell phones for personal use during school hours (except before school, during lunch, or after school) anywhere inside school outside of the designated times or locations. Students may have cell phones in their possession, but they must remain turned off and out of sight. Cell phones will be confiscated if they are seen or heard during the school day, outside of the designated usage time period.

Students may not receive phone calls or text messages on their cell phones from parents during school hours. This includes via accessory devices, such as smart watches, etc. If a parent needs to speak with their child or deliver a message, the school office should be called, and the office personnel will either bring the child to the office if it is an emergency or deliver the message at the most opportune time to minimize classroom disruptions. If a cell phone rings in class, regardless of who is calling, or a student looks at a text message and/or responds to a text message, the phone will be confiscated, and disciplinary measures taken.

Cell phones or any other electronic devices or “Smart Device” are not permitted for use in the building before, during, or immediately after school, unless at teacher discretion for educational purposes. We strongly suggest that students not bring these items to school due to the high cost of such items and the risk of theft/loss.

Consequences:

1. First Offense
The item will be confiscated and held until the end of the school day to be picked up by the parent/sponsor and student will receive a 60-minute detention. Items not claimed by the student, parent, or sponsor will be donated to a charity at the end of the school year.
2. Second Offense
Parents will be contacted. The item will be confiscated and kept until the parent/sponsor collects it and the student will receive a 120-minute detention. Items not claimed by the student, parent, or sponsor will be donated to a charity at the end of the school year.
3. Third Offense
Parents will be contacted. The item will be confiscated and kept until the parent/sponsor collects it and the student will be referred to administration and receive a Saturday school and suspension will ensue for every confiscation thereafter.

Exams will be given first and second semester for all subject areas in grades 9-12 and count up to 20% of a student’s semester average. This exam may be in the form of a comprehensive assessment or summative project. Grades 6-8 may take a unit or chapter assessment, but this score does not count as a semester exam and is calculated with the second and fourth nine weeks average. An exam schedule will be developed and published annually for each district.

DoDEA Manual 2740.1 and the Procedural Guide for Far East Academic and Interscholastic Athletic Programs (2018) provide a uniform interscholastic athletic program and guidance on student travel eligibility that extends to both academic and athletic events.

Athletic Contests: Students must participate in ten days of practice prior to competing in any athletic contest. Students transferring from another school may begin participating in contests immediately if the 10-day practice requirement has been met.
Far East Tournaments: Students may participate in the Far East Tournament if they have been a member of the team/activity for at least one-half of the season. Before departure for any Far East event, another parent and player meeting will occur to review the Code-of- Conduct and to discuss expectations while attending the event. Players whose parents do not attend this meeting will not travel to the Far East event and/or participate in any games at the event.
Non-Circuitous Travel Policy
Students will not be allowed to attend consecutive Far East Tournaments without, at least, one full week of attending classes. (e.g., A student returns from Far East on Friday the 8th. They cannot attend another Far East event on the following Monday the 11th. They would be required to attend school for the entire week and would be eligible to travel again on Monday the 18th.)

You may apply for an exemption to E.J. King’s “Non-Circuitous Travel Policy” that prohibits back- to-back travel. However, to be eligible, you must meet the following eligibility requirements.

1. Attendance: Not to exceed five (5) days of unexcused absences.
2. Grade Point Average: 3.8 minimum cumulative GPA.
3. Essay or Personal Statement: Write a narrative explaining your rationale to participate in two back-to-back Far East events

The Principal convenes a committee of the requestor’s teachers, administrators, counselor, and union representative to make a determination. It is the responsibility of the student to initiate the process and proposals MUST be submitted at a minimum a month before the travel orders and transportation tickets are requested. Submit proposals to the Principal.

Attendance Prior to Events: Students who do not attend school will not be permitted to participate in or attend any school- sponsored event that same school day, which includes a practice or game.
Principals are authorized to make exceptions to this policy. (DoDEA Administrators’ Manual – 1005.1).

School Suspension: A student suspended from school may not participate in or attend any school activity until suspension is completed but will be allowed to make up work.

One-day Study Trips: Students who do not meet the grade standards for multiple-day trips may be involved in a school-sponsored academic study trip when the trip is no more than one day in length.

Overnight” class trips or overnight sleep-over on campus are not considered to be a school function. Such activities are not approved activities for DoDEA-Pacific schools. Parents or other community groups sponsoring such social trips must accept full responsibility for the event. School or class funds may not be expended for the activity, and therefore, such social activities as senior trips, “skip” days, and trips to the beach are NOT school-sponsored and are considered TRUANCY. Any school- sponsored activity involving seniors will always be clearly communicated to parents by school officials. If a parent has not received official notice of an activity from the school, please contact the school for verification purposes.

Study trips are an important part of the educational program. Students are expected to participate in these activities in order to extend the DoDEA Curriculum and Standards outside of the classroom as well as to learn about our Host Nation and its people and to appreciate the diversity and difference of cultures. Participation should be accomplished in a manner which:

• Demonstrates respect for the Host Nation and its people.
• Promotes high-level thinking skills and application of existing knowledge.
• Reflects credit on the American community and the school.
• Ensures the child’s own safety.

Absences due to such activities are Excused and the students’ teachers will be notified ahead of time. The student is responsible for making up any work missed on the study trip day. Assignments are due the next class period unless teacher assign an extended due date. For example, a student attending a study trip on an “A” day should receive assignments for a scheduled field trip before the date of study trip and it is due the following “A” day. A student does not get an extra “A” day due to them not being present in class unless an extension is provided by the teacher.

Parental permission is required for a student to participate in study trips. Parents are often requested to assist by volunteering to accompany classes and help with supervision. Parents must have a background check on file with the office to manage small groups. Without a background check, you must stay in eyesight of DoDEA employee. Background Check forms are available in the main office or with Administrative Officer. Younger children and/or siblings cannot accompany parent chaperones on the trip for safety reasons.

In order to ensure the safety of all students, DoDEA policy requires that all volunteers complete an application and background check. Applications are available upon request in the school’s main office or with school’s Administrative Officer.