Policies & Procedures

The Department of Defense (DoD), in collaboration with the National Center for Interstate Compacts and the Council of State Governments, has developed an interstate compact that addresses the educational transition issues of children of active duty military-connected families. Currently, all 50 states, DoDEA and the District of Columbia participate in this interstate compact, which provides uniform policy for resolving the educational challenges experienced by military-connected children as they transition between school systems.

We encourage all of our families preparing to transition, to, from or within a DoDEA and/or stateside school system to engage with the School Liaison (SLO) from the sending and receiving locations. The SLO is the local contact for schools and has valuable information about school calendars, hybrid learning, early enrollment, student services, how to manage quarantine requirements and more.

“Call your SLO before you go”
In order to prepare records for your students school transition.

A directory of School Liaisons is updated annually and can be found at: https://www.dodea.edu/education/partnership-and-resources 

The Compact ensures that mobile children of military families are afforded the same opportunities for educational success as other children. States participating in the Compact work to coordinate graduation requirements, transfer of records, course placement, unique learning needs, assessments and other administrative policies.

For additional information or transition support, please contact hq.partnership@dodea.edu or call the Partnership office at 571-372-6026. 

If the principal permits a school to operate a limited open forum by maintaining a practice of allowing any single non-curriculum-related student group access to school facilities, the principal shall ensure that all of such student groups (including activities of religious nature) are permitted equal access to meet on school premises and use school facilities during non-instructional time. Access to groups may be denied if the principal determines that a student or student group has or is likely to substantially interfere with good order or discipline or violate any Federal, state, or local law, or DoD or DoDEA regulation/policy.

For the protection of students and staff, all visitors must report to the school’s front office immediately upon arriving at the school. A visitor is any person (to include parents, sponsors, and legal guardians) not enrolled or assigned to the school requesting entry to the building.

Visitors must provide authorized identification to gain access to the DoDEA school. The visitor will be issued a visitor badge that must be displayed above the waist while on DoDEA school property. The school administrator has the final determination on visitors authorized to be at the school. While on DoDEA school property, visitors may go only to the approved area indicated as their destination when signing in at the school’s front office. Any change to the designated location must be approved by the school’s front office before the visitor can access a different location within the school. When leaving the school, visitors must sign out and return the visitor's badge to the school’s front office.

Classroom Observations

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 the school administrator is required for this type of visitation.

School Liaisons serve as the primary point of contact for PK-12th grade school-related matters. The School Liaison Program offers an array of services and resources to support students, parents, installation leadership, schools and the surrounding community. They inform parents about local schools, graduation requirements, afterschool programs, homeschooling and much more. By working together with these stakeholders, the School Liaison Program builds a support network to provide the best possible education experience for military-connected children and youth worldwide.

The School Liaisons Program goals are to:

• Identify barriers to academic success and develop solutions
• Promote parental involvement and educate local communities and schools regarding the needs of military children
• Develop and coordinate partnerships in education
• Provide students, parents, and school personnel with the tools they need to overcome obstacles to education that stem from the military lifestyle

The School Liaison:

• Serves as the primary point of contact for school-related matters
• Represents, informs, and assists Command
• Assists military families with educational issues
• Coordinates with local school systems
• Forges partnerships between the military, community and schools

School Liaisons are located at each installation to provide information as well as build partnerships with the civilian and military community to help address common education challenges of military families. School Liaisons are also an initial contact for participation in the Youth Sponsorship Program which builds resilience in youth and eases transition. School Liaison support is free of charge and open to all Department of Defense identification card holders, educators who serve military students and community partners involved with PK-12 education. For more information on the School Liaison Program visit School Liaisons & Military Youth | Military OneSource

To find a School Liaison in your community use this link School Liaison Contacts MILITARY INSTALLATIONS

Whether you're planning a move to your next installation or want to know more about your current duty station, MilitaryINSTALLATIONS, one of many free resources from Military OneSource, is the place to get answers. Use it to find installation overviews, contacts for programs and services, check-in procedures, and community information for installations worldwide.

Management of DoDEA student behavior is a responsibility shared by DoDEA students, sponsors/parents/legal guardians, teachers, and the military and school communities and consists of teaching and reinforcing positive DoDEA student attitudes and behaviors. Discipline should be progressively, equitably and fairly administered, is sequential and preplanned, and normally occurs in a hierarchy of consequences for repeated offenses of the same behavior.

The school cannot be held responsible for the loss or damage to items of personal property brought onto the premises. Students should not bring large sums of money, expensive jewelry or other expensive items to school, computer games, toys, or portable electronic devices, or cell phones to school. No items of monetary or sentimental value should be brought to school.

Students who walk or are brought to school by parents should arrive at school no earlier than 0800. There is no supervision prior to 0800. Supervision is the responsibility of the parent until 0800. Students will depart from school immediately after dismissal at the end of the day. With prior parent and teacher permission, students may stay after school for activities, detention and special events. Please notify teachers and the main office in writing if a student is deviating from the normal routine after school. Please be familiar with the bus policy.

Eligibility categories to enroll in a DoDEA school include space required, space available, tuition-free and tuition-paying with requirements differing by geographic location in accordance with public law and DoDEA policy. Sponsors must meet eligibility requirements as outlined in DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1344.01, “Eligibility and Enrollment Requirements for DoDEA Schools.” 

Eligibility requirements by geographic location:  
Section 3:  DoDEA Schools in Europe, Pacific (Excluding Guam), and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba
Section 4:  DoDEA Americas Schools in the Contiguous United States
Section 5:  DoDEA Americas Schools in Guam and Puerto Rico

Additional information about student eligibility and registration can be found on the DoDEA website: Registration Process – Eligibility and Enrollment

Kindergarten and grade 1 placements are determined by minimum age requirements, in accordance with Enclosure 2 of DoDEA Regulation 2000.03, “Student Grade Level Placement,” March 2, 2010. A student who will reach his or her fifth birthday on or before September 1 of the school year is eligible to be enrolled in kindergarten in DoDEA. In addition, a student who will reach his or her sixth birthday on or before September 1 of the school year is eligible to enroll in grade 1 in DoDEA. Placement in grades 2–8 is predicated upon completion of the preceding year. Students entering a DoDEA school (kindergarten through grade 8) from a non-American or host nation school will be placed in the grade level corresponding to their ages, assuming yearly progression from grades 1–8.

Grade-level status (grades 9, 10, 11, and 12) will be determined by the number of course credit units earned by the student, in accordance with Section 2 of DoDEA Regulation 2000.3, “Student Grade Level Placement,” March 2, 2010. Students entering grade 9 must have successfully completed grade 8 and/or been previously enrolled in grade 9 and earned less than 6 credits. Students entering grade 10 must have successfully completed grade 9 and earned a minimum of 6 course credits. Students entering grade 11 must have successfully completed grade 10 and earned a minimum of 12 course credits. Students entering grade 12 must have successfully completed grade 11 and earned a minimum of 19 course credits.

In accordance with DoDI 1342.29, “Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children,” January 31, 2019, for students transitioning from a sending school system to a DoDEA school, at the time of transition and regardless of the age of the student, the DoDEA school shall enroll the transitioning student in the same grade level as the student’s grade level (i.e. in kindergarten through grade 12) in the sending state’s local educational agency. For kindergarten, the student must have been enrolled in and attended kindergarten class in order to assure continued attendance in kindergarten in a DoDEA school. Students who have satisfactorily completed the prerequisite grade level in the sending school system will be eligible for enrollment in the next higher grade level in the DoDEA school, regardless of the student’s age.

All DoDEA students, including students with disabilities, English language learners (ELLs), and students with accommodation plans, should be afforded the opportunity to participate in the standard DoDEA secondary curriculum, as appropriate, based upon their individual circumstances.

Student records and transcripts may be requested from several different sources, depending upon the student’s last date of attendance or graduation date. Parents/sponsors of current and prospective elementary/middle/high school students should contact the school’s registrar directly for assistance. For further information, please visit the DoDEA Transcripts. You may also consult with the counseling department at your child’s school for issues regarding student records.

An English language learner (ELL) is a student whose first language is not English and is in the process of acquiring English as an additional language. In accordance with DoDEA Regulation 2440.1, DoDEA’s English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Program is designed to teach ELLs to acquire English language and literacy proficiency through content. The ESOL Program builds students’ social, cultural, and academic skills so that identified ELLs succeed in an English language academic environment that provides access to college- and career-ready opportunities as their English-speaking peers.

The ESOL Program involves teaching listening, speaking, reading, writing, and study skills at the appropriate developmental and English language proficiency levels. This is accomplished by teaching language through a standards-based, high-quality academic content that pursues the student’s orientation within the United States culture. The ESOL Program’s instruction can be delivered in a variety of settings and program configurations. The scope and amount of ESOL instruction provided is determined by the student’s age, grade level, academic needs, and an English language proficiency evaluation. DoDEA’s ELLs may receive instruction both through the ESOL Program and within the main classroom setting.

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.

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.

DoDEA recognizes that home schooling is a sponsor’s right and may be a legitimate alternative form of education for the sponsor’s dependent(s). Home-school students who are eligible to enroll in a DoDEA-Europe, DoDEA-Pacific and DoDEA-Americas school are eligible to utilize DoDEA auxiliary services without being required to either enroll in or register for a minimum number of courses offered by the school. Eligible DoD home-school students using or receiving auxiliary services must meet the same eligibility and standards of conduct requirements applicable to students enrolled in the DoDEA school who use or receive the same auxiliary services. Any student, including eligible DoD dependent home-school students, who has not met the graduation requirements to earn a DoDEA diploma may not receive DoDEA commencement regalia, the DoDEA diploma, nor participate (walk) in a DoDEA commencement ceremony.

Students who enroll in DoDEA schools are required to meet specific immunization requirements (DoDEA Regulation 2942.01, "School Health Services," September 2, 2016). These requirements represent the minimum and do not necessarily reflect the optimal immunization status for a student. Acceptable forms of official proof of immunization status may include, but are not limited to:

1. Yellow international immunization records;
2. State agency-generated immunization certificates;
3. School-generated immunization certificates; and
4. Physician, clinic or hospital-generated immunization records.

It is the responsibility of the sponsor/parent/guardian to provide their child's most current immunization record at the time of enrollment and when immunizations are updated. Parents of incoming students are allowed up to 30 days from the date of enrollment to obtain documentation of any missing required immunization(s). If the missing required immunization is a series, then the first dose of the series must be administered, and documentation must be provided to the school within the required 30 days. Students who have immunization(s) due during the school year will have 10 calendar days from the due date to receive their vaccine(s) and to submit documentation to the school. The due date of a vaccine is on the date the student reaches the minimum recommended age for vaccine administration.

DoDEA Immunization Requirements SY 24-25

STUDENTS IN NON-COMPLIANCE AFTER 10 DAYS MAY BE DISENROLLED UNTIL PROOF OF COMPLIANCE OR APPROVED EXEMPTION IS PROVIDED.

A waiver for immunization exemption may be granted for medical or religious reasons. Philosophical exemptions are not permitted. The applicable DoD Command must provide guidance on the waiver process.

A statement from the child’s health care provider is required if an immunization cannot be administered because of a chronic medical condition wherein the vaccine is permanently contraindicated or because of natural immunity. The statement must document the reason why the child is exempt. This request for immunization exemption from specific vaccines due to vaccine contraindications or natural immunity must be completed and submitted to the school at the beginning of the child’s enrollment or when a vaccine is due. Request for exemption only needs to be completed one time for the duration of the child’s enrollment at the school.

If an immunization is not administered because of a parent’s religious beliefs, the parent must submit an exemption request in writing, stating that he or she objects to the vaccination based upon religious beliefs. The immunization waiver request must be completed and submitted to the school at the beginning of every school year. For students arriving after the school year has started, this request/written statement must be submitted at the initial enrollment and at the beginning of every school year.

During a documented outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease (as determined by local DoD medical authorities), a student who is attending a DoDEA school program under an immunization waiver for that vaccine will be excluded from attending. This is for his or her protection and the safety of the other children and staff. The exclusion will remain in place until such time that the DoD Command determines that the outbreak is over and that it is safe for the student to return to school.

DoDEA Immunization Requirements

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?

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 the DoDEA SIS Gradebook 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:

In accordance with the policies and procedures in DoDEA Regulation 1377.01, “Student Progress Reports,” September 4, 2018, it is DoDEA policy to issue a progress report every 9 weeks for any student present or enrolled for at least 20 instructional days or more in a marking period. Any written comments by teachers on progress reports should be stated objectively. The comments should be based on evidence about the student and should not represent opinions that cannot be supported by evidence

Achievement codes will be given at the end of the second, third and fourth marking periods for students in grades K–1. Grades will be given at the end of each of the four marking periods for students in grades 2–12. Achievement codes or grades on report cards will be determined by the degree to which students are achieving established program objectives or standards. For students in grades K–12, unsatisfactory achievement of program objectives or standards will be reported to parents during each marking period as soon as evident, but no later than the midpoint of the nine-week grading period to allow sufficient time for a student to correct the problem.

All DoDEA schools should encourage parents to meet with their child’s teacher for parent-teacher conferences. Parent-Teacher Conferences  allow parents the opportunity to ask questions about their child’s classes or progress in school. Parent-teacher conferences are also a great way to discuss how parents and teachers can work together to help students perform at their best in school. Parents/sponsors who plan to attend a parent-teacher conference scheduled by the teacher or school should inquire on the amount of time allowed before attending. If more time is required or the parent/sponsor wants to meet with the teacher again, the parent/sponsor should notify the teacher at the end of the conference. Please contact your child’s school for details regarding scheduling of parent-teacher conferences. DoDEA encourages all communication to take place through official school email accounts.

All DoDEA students in grades or programs identified for system-wide assessments shall be included in the DoDEA Comprehensive Assessment System (DoDEA-CAS), in accordance with DoDEA Regulation 1301.01, “Comprehensive Assessment System,” October 4, 2018. Students who have been identified as having disabilities or are ELLs shall participate using either the standard DoDEA assessments, with or without reasonable and appropriate accommodations, or through the use of the appropriate DoDEA alternate assessment, as per their Individual Education Plan (IEP), 504 Accommodation Plan, or English Learner Plan. All assessments selected for use within DoDEA shall:

1. Align to clearly defined standards and objectives within the content domain being tested
2. Be valid and reliable and controlled for bias
3. Be one of several criteria used for making major decisions about student performance/achievement.

The results of each assessment shall be used as one component of the DoDEA-CAS for major decisions concerning a student’s future learning activities within the classroom setting.

For more information about the DoDEA-CAS, including the testing administration matrix, test descriptions, and testing calendar, please refer to: dodea.edu/assessments.

The purpose of special education is to enable students to successfully develop to their fullest potential by providing a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).Special education is specially designed instruction, support and services provided to students with an identified disability who require an instructional program that meets their unique learning needs. The purpose of special education is to enable these students to successfully develop to their fullest potential by providing FAPE in compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), as implemented by DoD Manual (DoDM) 1342.12, “Implementation of Early Intervention and Special Education Services to Eligible DoD Dependents,” June 17, 2015.

In DoDEA, special education and related services are available to eligible students, ages 3 through 21 years of age. To be eligible for special education:

1. The child must have an identified disability;
2. The disability must adversely (negatively) affect the child's educational performance; and
3. The child must require a specially designed instructional program.

If found eligible for special education and related services, DoDEA students are provided FAPE in accordance with an IEP, with services delivered in the least restrictive environment and with procedural safeguards, in accordance with the requirements of DoDM 1342.12.

Please contact your child’s school to discuss your concerns if you suspect your child may have a disability and be in need of special education services. The Case Study Committee chairperson will provide you with specific details relating to the evaluation process and can explain eligibility requirements further.

Apart from special education, a student with a disability, or who has a record of a disability, or is regarded as having a disability, shall not be excluded from participating in, or be denied the benefits of, any DoDEA education program or activity or be subjected to discrimination based solely on a disability. In accordance with DoDEA Administrative instruction 2500.14, “Nondiscrimination and 504 Accommodation on the Basis of Disability in DoDEA Conducted Education Programs and Activities,” April 29, 2009, as amended, students with disabilities shall be provided a FAPE and shall participate with students without disabilities to the maximum extent appropriate to ensure equal access to educational opportunities. This means that a student with a disability that does not require specialized instruction may be eligible for accommodations to ensure participation in school programs and activities. Please contact your child’s school for specific details.

In accordance with the policy in DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1356.01, “Family Advocacy Program Process for Reporting Incidents of Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect,” November 5, 2018, all DoDEA personnel will participate in the identification and reporting of incidents of child abuse and neglect. School personnel shall report all suspected or alleged child abuse to the local Family and Advocacy Program (FAP) office, child welfare service agency (if available) and their immediate supervisor within 24 hours. All employees shall cooperate with the FAP process. The DoD FAP provides for the identification, treatment and prevention of child abuse and neglect.

In order to prevent violence, suicide and other harmful acts among children and adults in schools, the need for reliable ways to identify persons who may require assistance is a critical step. All DoDEA employees must notify the DoDEA school administrator when a DoDEA student has made any statement or engaged in actions that may indicate threat of harm towards self or others.

Any indication of student suicidality must be immediately reported to the DoDEA school administrator. The DoDEA student who exhibits suicidal ideation or behavior, or who makes a statement or engages in actions that may indicate self-harm or suicidal thoughts, shall be immediately assessed to obtain specific information to determine the risk level. The results of that assessment shall be communicated to the DoDEA school administrator and documented. Regardless of the level of risk reported, in all cases, a DoDEA school administrator or designated member of the Case Management Team must directly notify parents or legal guardians of the concern. For additional assistance in this process, please contact the district school psychology instructional systems specialist.

If a parent or legal guardian disagrees with school recommendations for evaluation of a student’s dangerousness to self, or refuses to take parental or legal guardian responsibility for the safety of their child, the DoDEA school administrator must inform the parent or legal guardian that DoDEA policy requires that school personnel protect the safety and health of the students. Parent or legal guardian refusal to address identified medical needs may necessitate a report to the local FAP office and local Child Protective services if neglect is suspected, as outlined in DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1356.01.

When a DoDEA student makes an explicit or implicit threat, or if the student’s behavior indicates that a threat is serious and reasonably likely to be acted upon, the DoDEA school administrator shall take action based on the level of the threat. Certain types of serious threats require immediate notification to local law enforcement entities without regard to the level of threat yielded. The DoDEA school administrator shall immediately report the following student behaviors to the local law enforcement entity:

1. A threat that involves stalking of any person on a school bus, on school property or at a school-sponsored activity;
2. Threats to bomb, burn, kill, or harm school personnel; and
3. Threats of death or bodily injury to a person or members of his or her family or threats to commit serious bodily harm to persons on school property.

The DoDEA school administrator shall also immediately report any act that may constitute a criminal offense to the parents or legal guardians of minor students involved in the act and shall report that the incident has been reported to local law enforcement, as required by Federal, state, or local law. The DoDEA school administrator may report other threats to the local law enforcement entity, as necessary and appropriate. The DoDEA school administrator shall inform the parents or legal guardians that they may contact local law enforcement for further information, as necessary and appropriate.

DoDEA school counselors provide comprehensive counseling programs to all students in grades K–12, in accordance with DoDEA Regulation 2946.1, “School Counseling Services,” July 13, 2009, and DoDEA Manual 2946.2, “Department of Defense Education Activity School Counseling Services,” January 1, 2006. Counseling programs are designed to foster a foundation for lifelong learning by removing barriers to students’ academic success. Early identification and intervention of students’ academics needs is essential in removing barriers to learning and promoting academic growth. School counselors provide direct and indirect student services and curricular activities to increase the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for students to achieve their potential academically and physically for life, college, and career readiness.

Elementary school counseling programs are crucial in supporting students’ attitudes and personal views toward school, self, and peers groups. In elementary grades, school counseling programs support and provide education on prevention and intervention services, promoting positive academic skills and career awareness — skills students need to be competent and confident learners.

Secondary school counseling programs are designed to meet the rapidly changing needs of students in grades 6–12, while preparing them for high school and beyond. College and career exploration and planning are emphasized at the secondary level. As middle school students learn to manage more independence and responsibilities, school counseling programs are designed to connect learning to practical application in life and work, and foster effective learning/study skills.

High school counseling programs are designed to foster student preparation and readiness for successful college and career pathways after high school. All secondary students create and manage a four- to six-year plan with their counselor. The four- to six-year plan is managed in SchooLinks and is designed to teach students how to create and attain their graduation, college, and career goals, while taking into account their interests, aptitudes, and graduation requirements.

Please contact your school counselor for additional information regarding the school counseling program.

DoDEA school psychologists provide a range of services designed to support students’ learning, growth, and development. They are experts in student mental health and learning/behavior, and they partner with various stakeholders throughout the school and community to support students’ academic and emotional needs. School psychology programs are designed to foster safe, healthy and supportive learning environments that strengthen connections between the school, home, and community. School psychologists aim to improve academic achievement, promote positive behaviors and safe school climates, and strengthen school-family partnerships. Core functions of school psychologists include mental health interventions, behavior management, crisis intervention and response, assessment, and consultation and collaboration.

Please contact your school psychologist for additional information regarding the DoDEA School Psychology Program.

DoDEA School Health Services aims to optimize learning by fostering student wellness. The school nurse serves as the health service expert, providing health care to students/staff and implementing interventions that address both actual and potential health and safety conditions. The school nurse collaborates with the school administrator to promote the health and academic success of students and serves as the liaison between the school, community, and health care systems. This collaborative effort creates opportunities to build capacity for students' self-care, resilience, and learning.

The school nurse's responsibilities include:

1. Providing leadership in promoting personal and environmental health and safety by managing communicable diseases, monitoring immunizations, and providing consultation and health-related education to students and staff to promote school health and academic success;
2. Providing quality health care and intervening with actual and potential health problems through health screenings, health assessments, and nursing interventions, including the development of health care and emergency care plans to enable students to safely and fully participate in school;
3. Providing case management services to direct care for students with chronic health conditions in order to ensure their safety and increase their access to the educational program; and
4. Collaborating with school and community-based resources to reduce health-related barriers to student learning, improve access to health care and develop school-community partnerships to support academic achievement and student success.

As a general rule, the parent or sponsor will be notified by the school administrator or school nurse if a child has:

1. Any illness or injury that causes concern or inability to participate in school activities;
2. Eye, ear, or teeth injuries;
3. Head injury;
4. Second- or third-degree burns;
5. Severe pain;
6. Sprains or possible fractures;
7. Temperature greater than or equal to 100 degrees Fahrenheit;
8. Vomiting or diarrhea; and
9. Wounds that may require stitches.

Do not send your child to school if he or she is ill. Staying home to get the proper rest, nutrition, and parental care is for your child's benefit as well as for the benefit of the other children in the school who may be unnecessarily exposed to a contagious illness. The following are examples of when a student should remain home:

1. A temperature greater than or equal to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The student must be fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medication for 24 hours (a complete school day) before returning to school.
2. Actively vomiting or has diarrhea.
3. An illness which presents with contagious symptoms.
4. Other symptoms interfering with learning or participation, such as abdominal pain; ear ache; itchy, painful eyes; light-sensitivity; or profuse exudate from the eyes necessitating frequent wiping.
5. Severe uncontrolled coughing or wheezing, rapid or difficult breathing, and coughing lasting longer than five to seven days.
6. Episodes of vomiting in the past 24 hours. A student must remain home until vomiting resolves (no further vomiting for 24 hours).
7. Frequent, loose or watery stools compared to the student's normal pattern; not caused by diet or medication. A student must remain home if a) he/she looks or acts ill; b) he/she has diarrhea with temperature elevation of 100°F or greater; and c) he/she has diarrhea and vomiting.
8. Blister-like lesions (impetigo, including streptococci, staphylococcus, and methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus infections) that develop into pustules with weeping and crusting. A student must be medically evaluated, remain home for at least 24 hours after initiation of medical treatment and remain home until determined not infectious by a medical provider. Lesions must be covered for school attendance.
9. Ringworm lesions must be covered for school attendance.
10. Thick discharge from eye, necessitating frequent wiping and may be accompanied by pain, redness to the white part of the eye and light sensitivity. Student must remain at home until symptoms clear or completion of 24 hours of medical provider-prescribed ophthalmic treatment.
11. Measles, mumps, rubella, (German measles), chicken pox, pertussis (whooping cough), and influenza. A student must remain home until determined to be not infectious by a medical care provider.

If your child becomes ill during the school day, the school nurse will contact you to pick up your child. To return to school, your child must be without symptoms for 24 hours and fever-free without fever-reducing medications for at least 24 hours.

When medication must be administered during the school day, it must be delivered to the school nurse in the original container and properly labeled by the pharmacy or primary care manager/provider, stating the name of the student, the medication, dosage, route, time of administration, and current date of issue. Contact the school nurse for the required Medication Consent Form. This form must be filled out and signed by the prescribing state licensed medical provider and also signed by the sponsor/parent/guardian. The sponsor/parent/guardian needs to bring the signed form and the medication to the school nurse. If the school nurse is not present, the signed form and medication must be presented to the school principal, acting principal, or health aide for safekeeping. It is acceptable for parents to bring in self-purchased over-the-counter medication to be kept in the health office for their child's use at school, but the medication must be accompanied by a physician's prescription and signed parental consent form.

In some rare situations, students are allowed to keep their rescue or emergency medicine with them while in school or at school-related activities. The prescribing primary care manager must provide a written statement that the student must be in control of his or her medication due to a life-threatening medical condition. The parent must provide written consent for the medication to stay with the student. See the school nurse to obtain the appropriate form for medications to be administered during school hours or for a student to self-carry emergency medication.

Supplement A - DoDEA Form 6000.01: Medication During School Day and School-Sponsored Activities

Supplement D - DoDEA Form 6000.01: Student Retention of Medication

Please inform the school nurse of any medical condition and health concerns your child may have to better serve and protect your child's welfare in accordance with DoDEA Regulation 2720.1, "First Aid and Emergency Care," September 8, 2003.

Food allergies (including peanut/nut allergies) are a significant health concern within the school environment. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms to life-threatening reactions. Ensuring a safe environment for all students and visitors is a primary focus for the school administration and staff. In an attempt to raise awareness and limit unnecessary exposure during school hours, the following steps have been implemented to address food allergies:

1. Notify the school nurse of ANY allergy to food, drug, insects, etc., that your child may have;
2. Provide the school nurse with medication/doctor's orders/emergency care plan/parent permission form;
3. Teach children at home about their food allergies and the importance of not sharing any food with others in school or elsewhere; and
4. Notify the classroom teacher about your child's allergens and check with the classroom teacher prior to bringing in any food for classroom celebrations.

School personnel will administer first aid as efficiently as possible to the dependent student when needed to treat minor injury or illness, in accordance with the DoDEA Regulation 2720.1, "First Aid and Emergency Care," September 8, 2003. In accordance with Section 6 of DoDEA Regulation 2720.1, should a student sustain a more serious illness or injury, the school nurse will make a judgment call based on nursing assessment to determine if the student needs emergency medical care requiring a response by an emergency medical team (EMT) and possible transportation for treatment at a health care facility. If a student needs emergency medical care requiring an ambulance, the school will make reasonable efforts to contact the sponsor/parent/guardian or emergency contact. In the absence of a parent, a school administrator or designee may accompany the student to the medical treatment facility.

The EMT, health care facility, or attending health care provider(s) may be non-U.S. or non-military facilities or providers, especially if the dependent student is located overseas. Treatment decisions will be made exclusively by the health care provider(s) if the nature of the dependent student's injury or illness requires immediate health care, in accordance with their standard operating procedures regarding the delivery of emergency care for the dependent student.

It is very important for the school to have a current address, home phone number, mobile phone numbers, duty phone number, and the phone number of another adult to act as emergency contact in case parents cannot be contacted.

Contact your school nurse for additional information regarding the DoDEA School Health Services Program.

The DoDEA School Meals Program (SMP) supports academic achievement by providing nutritious meals to your students through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.

• The School Meals Program is a budget friendly and convenient program for parents that can save time, energy, money and reduce stress.
• Households must reapply every school year for free and reduced-price meals, beginning no earlier than July 1st.
• All meals must be paid for in advance or at the point of sale.
• A best practice is to fund your child’s account every pay day through the next pay day.

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.

No DoDEA student shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, be subjected to, or be permitted to subject others to discrimination in any DoDEA-conducted education and training programs and activities on the basis of their race, sex, color, national origin, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, or status as a parent, which is commonly known as their protected class, in accordance with DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1443.01, Volume 1, “Civil Rights Program and Compliance,” November 16, 2022.

Although DoDEA cannot guarantee every student a learning and activities environment free from annoyances, petty slights, or minor offenses, DoDEA is committed to creating and maintaining an environment free from unlawful discrimination and will not tolerate incidents of discriminatory unequal treatment, hostile environments (including those created by sexual assault and sexual harassment [discussed in greater detail below under “Student Conduct and Discipline”]), or impermissible disparate impact based on a student’s protected class, or retaliation against anyone because they have made a complaint, testified, assisted, or participated in any manner in an investigation related to an allegation of discrimination.

Students are responsible for their own scholastic integrity.  Any suspicion or evidence of forging, cheating, or plagiarizing the work of others may result in a school discipline, to include exclusion in accordance with DoDEA AI 1347.01, Student Disciplinary Rules and Procedures.

According to Section 3.6 of DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1353.01, “Student Rights and Responsibilities,” April 6, 2021, students may observe religious practice in school, such as celebration of religious holidays, engaging in private prayer, saying grace before meals, and wearing yarmulkes and head scarves, as long as the practice does not violate student standards or cause substantial disruption. Students may engage in independent religious discussion to the same degree that they may engage in other types of permissible speech. The freedom to engage in religious expression in school does not include the right to compel other students to participate in religious practices or discussion. Students may express their beliefs about religion in the form of homework, artwork, presentations, and other written and oral assignments, free from discrimination by school faculty or other students based on the religious content of their submissions. Such assignments and submissions shall be assessed by curricular standards or other relevant instructional criteria in accordance with Section 4 of DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1353.01.

In accordance with DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1443.01: "Civil Rights Program and Compliance,” November 16, 2022, all high school students, and middle school students in some cases, are provided the opportunity to participate in the Interscholastic Athletic Program without unlawful discrimination based on their race, sex, color, national origin, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, status as a parent, or other factors unrelated to that participation. There are uniform eligibility policies for participants in all athletic programs. Please refer to your regional Interscholastic Athletics Program policy for details relating to your school. For DoDEA-Americas schools, please consult your state of residence athletic policies and the school athletic director for specifics regarding state regulations and requirements.

Students MUST wear:

• Tops with sleeves (sleeveless tops/dresses are permitted for school sponsored formal events such as prom)
• Solid clothing (not transparent or translucent) that fully covers the top and bottom from armpit to mid-thigh
• Shoes (shoes must be safe for the school environment)
  • Bedroom slippers shall not be worn, except for school activities approved by the principal
  • Open toe shoes with a strap across the heel are allowed

Students CANNOT wear clothing with:

• Language or images promoting violence
• Language or images that depict, promote, or advocate the illegal use or sale of drugs, alcohol or tobacco products; violent conduct; curse words; pornography; that contain threats or expressions which are violent, discriminatory, lewd or obscene; or that advocate or promote any other illegal item or activity or the use of same
• Derogatory speech and/or imagery that targets groups based on race/color, ethnicity/national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or any other characteristic protected by law.
• Headgear that obscures the face (except as a religious observance or health purpose); clothing items with hoods attached can be worn but must not cover the head

* Teachers/courses can require certain attire as part of the curriculum (for example: physical education, culinary) that may include specific dress

* DoDEA issued athletic uniforms and athletic practice attire outside of the DoDEA school dress code is permitted when worn by participants during athletic practices and sports events

General, non-individualized searches of school property (e.g., desks, lockers, storage spaces, and school computers, including data and internet access records), may be conducted by the principal on a periodic or random basis. The school affords students and parents adequate prior notice of its general search policy through the issuance referenced above and this handbook. The search shall be conducted by the principal in the presence of another school employee who will serve as a witness. General searches of school spaces and property may be conducted in cooperation with the appropriate installation authorities or military police, including dogs trained to detect the presence of contraband. Evidence found during a general search, or a dog sniff, that alerts authorities to potential contraband may provide reasonable suspicion sufficient to conduct an individualized search.

Individualized, reasonable suspicion or targeted searches may be conducted by a principal of a student’s personal belongings (including bags, personalized electronic mobile devices (PEMD) and the interior of student vehicles on school property) and in a student’s desk, locker, storage space, school computer, or other property of the school when there is reasonable suspicion to believe the student possesses a prohibited item. Targeted searches may be conducted whenever the student is involved in a school-sponsored or school-supervised activity or event so long as there is reasonable suspicion to conduct the search.

A targeted search of a student’s person shall only be conducted under exigent circumstances. When possible, a targeted search of the student’s person shall be conducted in a private room, or non-public area, and by a school official of the same sex as the student. Reasonable efforts to locate the student and to notify the parent shall be made prior to a targeted search or as soon as is practicable under the circumstances.

DoDEA has implemented action-based standard response protocols (i.e., hold, secure, lockdown, evacuate, and shelter) that can be performed during any emergency incident.

Hold Used when there is a need to remain in a classroom or area, even during class transitioning. Can be used for such events as a medical emergency, unruly students in the hallway, or whenever an incident requires all students and staff to remain in their current positions.

• Students will clear the hallways and remain in a room or area until the “All Clear” is announced.
• Teachers will close and lock the doors to rooms or areas (if possible).
• Teachers will account for students and adults.
• Classroom activities will continue uninterrupted.

Secure (lockout) Directed when there is a threat or hazard outside the school. Whether it is due to violence or criminal activity or a dangerous animal on the playground, a lockout uses the security of the physical facility as a protective measure.

• No students allowed outside of buildings and/or portable classrooms (no P.E., recess, etc.).
• All building exterior doors are closed and locked.
• Where possible, classroom activities will continue uninterrupted. place.

Lockdown Directed when there is a threat or hazard inside the school building. From serious altercations to intruders to active shooter situations, lockdown uses classroom security to protect students and staff from the threat.

• All students stay in place with a teacher or staff member.
• Students and teachers remain in locked classrooms, locating “safe zones” within each classroom.
• No one enters or exits the school, except law enforcement or incident response personnel.

Evacuation Implemented when there is a need to move students from one facility to another.

• Officials conducting or supervising evacuation will vary based on the school and incident taking place.
• Students will proceed to designated evacuation area. If separated from their class, students should join any evacuation line and identify themselves to the teacher in their group after arriving at the evacuation site.

Shelter Shelter is called when the need for personal protection is necessary. This may include events such as a tornado, earthquake or hazardous material spill.

• Shelter strategies may include evacuate to a shelter area, seal the room or drop and cover.

• Schools will identify potential shelter situations and designate specific responses, as appropriate.

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The Standard Response Protocols are incorporated into the school’s Emergency Action Plan. For more information on the Standard Response Protocols and how they apply within DoDEA, refer to DoDEA Administrative Instruction 5205.02, Volume 6, “DoDEA Force Protection Program: Standard Response Protocols,” 27 June 2023.-

DODEA students have the Right to a discrimination-free learning environment in which no individual, on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, or status as a parent, shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to, discrimination in a DoDEA-conducted or -sponsored education or training program or activity, pursuant to Executive Order 13160, DoD and DoDEA policy, and Federal law.

Students shall treat teachers, administrators, and other school staff as expected within the code of conduct, to include courtesy, fairness, and respect; and teachers, administrators, and other school staff shall treat students as expected within the code of conduct in this Issuance, to include courtesy, fairness, and respect.

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.

DoDEA does not allow any form of sexual harassment, sexual assault, problematic sexual behavior in children and youth (PSB-CY) and other related abusive misconduct of, or by, employees, students, or anyone participating in DoDEA-conducted/sponsored education, training programs, and activities, committed both on and off DoDEA premises.

All DoDEA students are responsible for not committing acts of sexual harassment, sexual assault, PSB-CY, and other related abusive misconduct, in accordance with DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1443.02, “Prohibited Sexual, Sex-Based, and Other Related Abusive Misconduct Reporting and Response,” February 21, 2019 (DoDEA AI 1443.02, and for cooperating with any investigations and resolution of complaints made in accordance with this Issuance. Students who violate this policy are subject to discipline in accordance with DoDEA Administrative Instruction, “Student Disciplinary Rules and Procedures,” April 7, 2021.

The right to be free from other related abusive misconduct includes physical and/or emotional misconduct that does not qualify as sexual assault or sexual harassment, but that is still intended to make a student feel pressured, uncomfortable, physically threatened, in pain, embarrassed, or offended. It also includes the right to be free from an adult, or another student, trying to exploit their position of authority or influence over a student to force or manipulate them into an inappropriate personal and/or sexual relationship, even if the student does not think it is harmful. DoDEA does not recognize sexual or romantic interactions between any student and a DoDEA employee or volunteer to ever be consensual, even if the student is of the lawful age of consent.

Students who are experiencing sexual assault, sexual harassment, PSB-CY, or other related abusive misconduct should report it, in accordance with Sections 4 and 5 of DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1443.02, “Prohibited Sexual, Sex-Based, and Other Related Abusive Misconduct Reporting and Response,” February 21, 2019.

It is extremely important that a student not suffer in silence or be allowed to be exploited or manipulated into an inappropriate relationship. If such is happening to a student personally, or to someone they know, the student should let an adult know about it right away. The student may tell someone he/she feels comfortable with and trusts, such as their parent, teacher, nurse, or coach, or go directly to the school principal or program director, at any time. When a DoDEA employee or volunteer becomes aware of a violation of this DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1443.02, they are required to report it to their school principal or program director, with the possible exception of certain disclosures made during confidential communications not otherwise subject to mandatory reporting requirements in accordance with Issuance.

Students may visit DoDEA’s Sexual Harassment Awareness and Prevention to learn more.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Per DoDEA AI 1347.01 and 4500.02:

Riding school buses is a PRIVILEGE that may be suspended or revoked if a student does not behave in a safe and proper manner. The time students spend going to and from school is an extension of their school day. School buses are an extension of the school campus. As such, principals are equally as responsible for discipline on school buses as they are on school campuses. Principals may take disciplinary action for school bus misconduct consistent with Attachment 2 or may process them in accordance with procedures available for other school discipline. Nothing in this handbook precludes the principal from exercising appropriate discipline, including suspending the student from school or from school related activities, for misconduct on school buses.

All students are expected to adhere to the bus rider rules outlined on the Student Transportation page.

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. Accelerated withdrawal will only be considered if the sponsor presents Permanent Change of Station (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. The acceleration request must be initiated at least four weeks before the final school day. Students must be in attendance for the entire day prior to these dates.

1. Parents need to see the registrar to complete the REQUEST FOR EARLYDEPARTURE FORM at least four weeks before the final school day.
2. Students receive an ACCELERATION OF CREDIT FORM from the registrar. It is the student’s responsibility to consult with teachers to develop a timeline for assignments and semester examinations. Students who do not complete an acceleration plan will receive a grade to date and no credit.
3. Two days prior to departure, students receive a STUDENTCLEARANCE FORM, which must be completed by teachers and other staff members before departure.
4. The student returns all forms to the registrar. At that time, payment for books or other items must be made before clearance can be completed. An updated transcript may not be immediately available. It will be sent as soon as possible. Parents must call ahead to arrange for records pick up.

ASACS supports middle and high school aged ahead students by addressing risk factors that interrupt positive mental, emotional, and behavioral development. Additionally, ASACS provides community and classroom outreach through substance abuse prevention education and presentations on risk factors typically encountered by adolescents.

ASACS Counselors are independently licensed and privileged providers. ASACS maintains confidentiality standards required by federal guidelines/regulations. Program participation is voluntary. Those adolescents wishing to engage in services under the age 15 require parental consent. Parental involvement is strongly encouraged in ASACS as it supports positive outcomes for at-risk youth.

Referrals are accepted by all concerned community partners including DODEA staff, student's peers, parents, community agencies, and self-referrals. ASACS services are available throughout the calendar year including DODEA summer recess and school holidays. ASACS counselors maintain flexible hours to accommodate the needs of the military community. Appointment times before and after school/duty hours are available. The Hohenfels MHS ASACS counselor can be reached at, DSN: 314-466-3162 or, CIV: +49 (0)9472-83-3162.

It is the parents’ responsibility to call DSN 466-3162 or CIV 09472-83-3162 between 0730 and 0930 to inform the school of the student's absence and the reason for the absence. At or prior to the student’s return to school, the attendance office should receive a valid note signed by the sponsor or a parent, to verify the reason for the absence. This note should be given to the attendance clerk within three days of return. The note can also be sent from an official email address to

Attendance.HohenfelsMHS@dodea.edu

Active Participation
Students have a responsibility to be active participants in the learning process. Non-participation can result in student/parent conference and/or administrative referral. Sleeping or napping in class is not acceptable. Teachers will notify the nurse who can counsel the student and contact the parents for a referral for a medical evaluation if necessary.

Alcohol Use / Possession
Students may not consume, or be in possession of, alcohol during the school day nor at any school event. Suspension will result. A referral will be made to the Adolescent Substance Abuse Counselor (ASAC).

Bullying
Bullying is a pattern of aggressive, intentional or deliberately hostile behavior that occurs repeatedly and over time. Bullying behaviors normally fall into three categories, physical, emotional, and verbal. Actions may include but are not limited to: intimidation, assault; extortion; oral or written threats; teasing; malicious communication, putdowns; name-calling; threatening looks; gestures, or actions; rumors; false accusations; hazing, social isolation, and cyber-bullying.

Complaint / Investigation Procedure
Students should see an administrator to file a complaint if they believe they have been the victim of bullying behavior. School administrators are responsible for investigating each complaint, determining if the complaint is legitimate in accordance with the above definition, and taking appropriate corrective action.

Intervention / Consequences
Reports of bullying are taken seriously and shall be dealt with quickly and effectively. If a student is found guilty of bullying behavior the consequences shall depend on both the results of the investigation and the severity of the incident. Consequences may include but are not limited to mediation, a parent conference, counseling, detention, suspension, expulsion, or referral to local law enforcement agency.

Cheating
HMHS has a no-tolerance policy regarding cheating. Students found exhibiting behaviors commonly associated with cheating will be subject to discipline.
Those behaviors commonly associated with cheating include talking/cell phone/electronic device use during a test, copying answers or being in possession of answers for assignments, or giving answers for assignments to another student. Plagiarism is a form of cheating and is not acceptable. Copying information and pasting it into personal work without giving credit to the source is also plagiarism (this is not all-inclusive). Additionally, students involved in cheating will receive a “0” grade for the assignment and the parents will be notified by the classroom teacher.

Electronic Devices Cell phones are not to be used in school buildings during the school instructional day (0810-1450), including texting. Some teachers may allow the use of electronic devices to support the educational process/program. Headphones/earphones should not be on/in both ears during passing times and while walking to or from classes before and after school. Head phones and ear buds must be removed when exiting the class rooms. If electronic devices are out during class time without instructor permission, the items may be confiscated and turned into the principal's office. The item will be returned to the student following the first offense (at the end of the class day). Subsequent incidents are treated as insubordination and the sponsor will have to come to the school to claim the item. The school takes no responsibility for lost/stolen items. Repeated abuse of the policy will result in loss of the item until the end of term.

Food/Drink In order to maintain a clean attractive campus, students are expected to maintain clean hallways. Students will not be allowed to eat in the hallways or auditorium unless under the guidance of a staff member. Generally, NO FOOD IS PERMITTED IN CLASSROOMS unless a teacher is holding a meeting during lunch or in conjunction with a curriculum related activity. Food sales are allowed before school and at lunch. There are to be NO sales during class time. Students will not be allowed to bring open cans and beverage cups into the hallways. Students are encouraged to stay well hydrated using water in clear water bottles. Closed bottles will be allowed in the hallways and classroom.

Dress Code

General Information - Appropriate dress is the responsibility of the sponsor and the student. School personnel determine inappropriate dress. Students are expected to dress in a manner that does not interfere with the educational process of the school. Good judgment and common sense should be used in selecting clothing that is neat, comfortable, and appropriate for a school environment. Shirts and footwear are required at all times. The dress code applies to ALL school activities during the school day. No form of clothing or accessory that creates distractions, is “suggestive” in nature, or is considered hazardous to student safety or health will be permitted. The following are not allowed:

1. Visible undergarments
2. Displays of inappropriate language or graphics on clothing, accessories, or body, (i.e., using profanity or displaying violence or weapons, alcohol, drugs or tobacco, gang and/or sex symbols)
3. Any clothing that contains offensive or obscene symbols, signs, slogans or degrading words

Tops - Tops should be long enough not to expose any skin between the shirt and trousers/skirt/shorts or undergarments. No see-through clothing is allowed. Spaghetti strap tops and tank tops may be worn only if completely covered; sleeveless shirts are permissible. Muscle shirts and undershirts are not allowed unless worn under other garments. Extremely low-cut blouses or dresses that reveal cleavage or back are not allowed (wear a camisole or tank underneath a low-cut blouse); neither are tube tops or halter tops; or backless, strapless, or one shoulder tops.

Bottoms - The hem of shorts, dresses, skirts cannot exceed 4” above the knee. Holes/tears in clothing cannot reveal skin 4” above the knee. Skinny jeans are allowed. Jeggings/leggings are allowed only with an appropriate top that falls midway on the thighs. Pajama bottoms are not allowed. Sagging pants; excessively long or baggy so as to drag on the floor that can cause possible tripping hazard are not allowed. Provocative dress (skintight dresses/trousers/body suits) or any clothing that exposes the lower back or bare shoulders; short skirts, dresses and apparel with slits more than 6 inches above the top of the knee while standing are not allowed.

Accessories (Not Allowed) - Hats, hoods, visors, caps; gang insignia bandanas worn on any part of the body; sunglasses worn inside buildings; very large wallet chains, jewelry with spikes, including chokers and rings, chains that could cause injury or damage; any jewelry or accessory that can be used as or is perceived to be a weapon.

• 1st Offense –Warning and discussion of violation(s) and review of student handbook. Student will be required to adjust or change clothes. Students who do not have immediate change of clothing may be provided with a sweatshirt or T-shirt. Student will notify the parent about the offense.
• 2nd Offense – After School Detention. Parent will be contacted.
• 3rd Offense – Saturday school detention.

Fighting
Conflict should be resolved before violence results. Teachers, counselors, and administrators will help students resolve conflict before it escalates, but it is the student’s responsibility to inform an adult of conflict situations. If there is a fight, the involved students will be suspended. A student who attacks another student and causes injury can expect a longer suspension or referral to a discipline board. Students involved in more than one fight may be referred to the school psychologist for a behavior management plan.

Forgery/Alteration of Notes
Students who forge sponsor or school signatures will be subject to discipline. In addition, altering notes and passes and use of sponsor email accounts will fall into this category.

Gang Behavior
Gang-like activities, such as vandalism and bullying are a community problem, a problem of the unit, the command, the parents, and the schools. DoDEA-Europe, as part of that community, will work with installation agencies and units to help ensure coordinated actions are in place. Within DoDEA-Europe schools, vandalism, bullying or any other gang-like activities are not tolerated. Any form of initiation, assault, or bullying, may result in suspension for those participating in the activity.
Military communities fully support our discipline actions. Gang related behavior includes joining a fight in progress, making threats on behalf of another person or group, and intimidation using a group threat. This list is not all-inclusive.
Students engaged in gang-related behavior can expect suspension or expulsion depending on the nature and severity of the offense.

Graffiti
Graffiti in any form will not be tolerated. A person or persons who; without the consent of the owner, utilizes aerosol paint or other permanent markers (or other writing devices) to intentionally or knowingly make markings, to include inscriptions, slogans, drawings, or paintings will be suspended.

Hall Conduct Students are to conduct themselves in an orderly manner when passing between classes. Students out of class for any reason MUST have a hall pass. Any adult in the building may request to see the hall pass. Students are to make every effort to use the restroom facilities during the passing period between classes. Individual teachers establish policies for allowing students to leave the classroom during class time.

Hazing Students that engage in or have association with acts of hazing on or off base are subject to disciplinary actions. Hazing is defined as, “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, or holding office in an organization.” Students who feel that they are being hazed need to tell a coach, teacher, counselor and/or administrator.

Illegal Drug Use / Possession In accordance with DoDEA regulation 2051.1, “Illegal/Controlled Substance includes all illicit drugs (e.g., marijuana, cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine, lysergic acid diethylamide, opium, heroin, phencyclidine, barbituric acid, and any compound or derivative of these substances); and illegal substances and/or controlled substances as defined by section 812 of 21 U.S.C. (reference (h)), or host nation law; and legal substances (e.g., readily available chemicals, over-the-counter and prescription drugs) that are abused or misused (e.g., sniffing glue or inhalants, exceeding recommended amounts of pills or other substances, or taking medicine prescribed for another person). A substance legal in the host nation, but illegal and/or controlled by section 812 of 21 U.S.C. (reference (h)), is an illegal or controlled substance under this Regulation.”

In accordance with the Europe East (EE) District, the recommended disciplinary action for this Category III infraction states that “a student may be disciplined, to include removal from school (i.e., suspension, expulsion, or out of school placement) in appropriate circumstances; when a preponderance of the evidence demonstrates that the student has engaged in any of the following acts of misconduct: Possessing, using, distributing, or the attempted possession; use or distribution of any illegal/controlled substance; as defined in enclosure 2 (EE Discipline Matrix). A mandatory expulsion recommendation is required for a second offense.”

Insubordination Students who willfully refuse to follow directions of a teacher or other staff member are considered insubordinate. Violators face a minimum of after school detention. The severity of the act and the student’s previous record of offenses will determine the length of the consequence. Open defiance, inappropriate language or profane gestures may result in suspension.

Intimidation / Harassment Rude, abusive, or threatening comments/behaviors towards others will not be tolerated. Violators will be subject to disciplinary action. Students who feel that they are being intimidated or harassed need to tell a parent, teacher, counselor and/or administrator.

Items Inappropriate at School Students are not permitted to bring to school any personal items that interfere with the classroom atmosphere or endanger the health and safety of other students. Students are responsible for all personal property and therefore should not bring items that may easily be stolen. It is recommended that electronic items not be brought to school. If they are, they should not be visible in the hallway before, during, or after school. Some teachers may allow the use of electronic devices to support the educational process/program. Cell phones are not to be used in the school buildings during instructional time (0805-1500). Skateboards and roller blades are not allowed at school. Note: The above list is not all inclusive.

Violations will result in confiscation of the banned article and possible consequences.

Misconduct in the Classroom Each teacher will establish classroom rules and enforcement procedures. When a student continues to violate classroom rules after the teacher has taken corrective action, the student will be referred to Administration.

Off Campus Definition Off campus is defined as outside of the high school complex. Students are not authorize to be off campus during the school day unless under the supervision of a teacher. The military dorms are off limits to all HMHS students at all times. Students should not be at or around the elementary school unless they have authorized specific permission and reasons to be there.

Physically Dangerous Behavior Running, wrestling, horseplay, play-fighting/hitting and throwing objects in the halls or classrooms is dangerous and is not acceptable behavior. This also includes the throwing of snowballs. Playing/jumping on/from the retaining walls is also considered dangerous. In addition, any behavior that has the potential to harm another person is not acceptable at school.

Profanity and Inappropriate Language The use of profanity, vulgarity, and inappropriate verbal or written language or gestures is unacceptable conduct at HMHS. This includes any racial, ethnic, or sexual slur. Students are encouraged to use appropriate communication in all settings at all times.

Public Displays of Affection
Kissing is not allowed. Hugs lasting longer than three (3) seconds on campus, during school, or at school functions are not allowed. Such conduct can interfere with the school’s academic mission and can create an offensive environment. Hand-holding is permitted.

Social Media Guidelines for Students

1. Social media venues are very public. What you contribute leaves a digital footprint forever, usually even after it is deleted. Do not post anything you wouldn't want others to see; e.g., friends, other peers, parents, teachers, or a future employer. Make sure what you post promote a positive image to the world.
2. It is acceptable to disagree with someone else's opinions, however, do it in a respectful, constructive way. What is inappropriate in the classroom is inappropriate online.
3. Be safe online. Never give out personal information, including, but not limited to, last names, phone numbers, addresses, birthdates, and pictures. Do not share your DoDEA password with anyone besides your parents or teachers.
4. Linking to other websites to support your thoughts and ideas is acceptable under the right circumstances. However, be sure to read the entire article prior to linking to ensure that all information is appropriate for school setting.
5. Do your own work! Do not use other people's intellectual property, including pictures, without their permission. It is a violation of copyright law to copy and paste other's thoughts without proper attribution. When paraphrasing another's idea(s), be sure to cite your source with the specific web address. Verify you have permission to use the material.
6. The way you represent yourself online is an extension of who you are. Do not misrepresent yourself by using someone else's identity.
7. Blog, wiki, and other online posts should be well-written. Follow writing conventions including proper grammar, capitalization, and punctuation. If you have permission to edit someone else's work be sure it is in the spirit of improving the writing.
8. If you run across inappropriate material that makes you feel uncomfortable, or is not respectful, tell a supervising adult right away.
9. Cyber-bullying is not tolerated. Inform a teacher, counselor or administrator if you feel you are being bullied.

Spreading Rumors If a person contributes to an altercation by spreading misinformation ("He said/She said" situations), he/she will be referred to the administration for counseling and/or action, and parents/sponsors will be notified. Responsible and mature individuals resolve misunderstandings and provocation by discussing differences and taking the time to talk things out. Students have the responsibility to refer potential confrontations to a staff member, counselor, or administration.

The administration supports resolving differences by communication and will provide a quiet place for students to discuss these differences when necessary. The proper way to deal with the problem is politely, privately and via the chain of command (teacher, counselor, and administrator).

Theft A student guilty of theft will be suspended and restitution of the property or equivalent value must be made. Students are reminded to lock up valuables in their locker using the school-issued lock or bringing a lock for the PE/Sports locker room. If you find an item that doesn’t belong to you (for example, a cell phone), then you should turn it in to a staff member or to the administration immediately. British law defines possession of “found” items as theft.

Tobacco / E-Cigarette Use (to include vaping) Hohenfels High School follows DoDEA-Europe smoking policy at all times. Students are prohibited from possessing or using tobacco products (to include e- cigarettes) or lighters during the school day on or off school property, on buses, or when participating in school-sponsored or school-supervised activities on or off campus. Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action which may include referral to counseling or appropriate authority. For discipline purposes, the school day begins the moment the student leaves their home to come to school and ends when they return.

Unprepared for Class Students who are without the materials necessary to learn and participate in class are considered unprepared for class. These materials include, but are not limited to writing utensils, books, class material, completed homework, and proper physical education attire. Repeat offenders will be dealt with by the teacher and may result in a referral to the administration.

Vandalism The student will be required to pay for or repair damages. Consequences will depend upon the severity and intention. Administration may offer the following alternatives to Out-of-School Suspension (OSS):

• A parent may opt to shadow his/her child for 1 day instead of any 1day of OSS. A parent who elects to shadow his/her child is not to be an active participant in the class and is to be a monitor only for his/her child.
• The HMHS Administration may limit the number of times that shadowing is allowed in lieu of OSS.

A Special Note to Parents Concerning Discipline: The school staff takes no pleasure in disciplining students, but we recognize our responsibility to assist students in this area of development. Effective discipline requires close partnership and coordination between students, parents and the school. When we contact you by phone, note, or conference about behavior, we seek your support and follow-up in helping the student realize that certain actions and/or attitudes are not appropriate in school because they make learning difficult or impossible, or because the actions may create hazards to self or others. Students rapidly adopt socially acceptable behavior when they realize that the home and the school share the same standards.

Teachers follow an assertive discipline plan to enforce their classroom rules. This plan generally includes:

• One-to-one counseling with the student
• Notification of parent; via phone or email indicating that a potential problem exists
• Arrangements for a parent conference
• Discipline referral to administration

Students who wish to clarify a situation with a staff member have an obligation to do so privately after class or after school. Students may not disrupt classrooms to settle differences of opinion, argue, or question a teacher's authority.

Each student is responsible for following four basic rules established at the beginning of the school year:

• Respect yourself
• Respect others
• Obey any reasonable request by a staff member or adult volunteer in the school
• Take responsibility for you own behavior

The school furnishes textbooks to all students and school equipment as needed. Textbooks and equipment represent a major investment, and students This is a living document, subject to change without notice; last updated 15 Aug 2020. This is a living document, subject to change without notice; last updated 15 Aug 2020. are expected to safeguard them against loss or damage. When the pupil completes a course or transfers from the school, all books and equipment must be returned to HMHS. 

Students are responsible for the texts and equipment checked out to them. Lost books and other lost equipment or materials may be replaced by ordering the book online and having it sent directly to the school. The office will supply necessary details regarding the specific book.

New information from the daily bulletin is read each morning to inform the students of upcoming activities. The daily bulletin is also sent electronically to all students. The HMHS Webpage at https://www.dodea.edu/HohenfelsMHS/ and the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/HohenfelsMHS/ is also available to keep the community informed about school activities. A Parent bulletin is sent home typically once a week.

So-called "Senior Trips" or other "Class Trips" are neither sponsored, authorized, sanctioned nor excused by the school. Parents and students must be aware that the school cannot be involved in any way, including fund raising. Senior "skip days" will be dealt with as unexcused absences and may lead to consequences that involve not participating in senior activities

School sponsored dances are normally held on Friday evenings. Exceptions to this policy are the Homecoming Dance and the Prom. Dances are normally scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. and end at 11 p.m.

• Dances will not be scheduled two weeks in a row
• Students who leave the dance for any reason will not be readmitted
• Dances must be approved at least two weeks prior to the scheduled date by the principal.

• Students who bring guests who are not students at HMHS must obtain a permission form to bring the guest. All requests to bring guests must be competed and returned to the Assistant Principal forty-eight (48) hours prior to the scheduled dance.

   

Students wishing to bring a non-Hohenfels High School guest to school dances must have written permission from their parents and the prior approval of the administration. Middle school students are not allowed to attend high school dances. The permission to bring a guest to a school event must be given to the sponsor of the dance at least one day before the dance unless otherwise designated. School rules apply at all dances. Once a student has entered a dance, they may not return if they leave the site. Special dress codes may be defined for certain dances. The Prom is for juniors and seniors. Upperclassmen can request to bring a sophomore date. An age limit for the dances is determined internally with an agreement between the student council and the administration.

Detention may also be assigned by the administration on an as-needed basis. Students will receive an email at the time a detention is assigned. The email will state the date of the detention and the reason for it (a copy will also be sent electronically to the sponsor.) Students placed on detention must report to the assigned location with materials necessary to do assignments. The student must: (1) remain seated unless given permission to move, (2) remain silent and work the entire time. Students who miss an after-school detention will be assigned a Saturday school.

Teachers may assign detention to students who disrupt or misbehave in class or fail to do the assigned classroom work. After school detention requires 24-hour notice. Failure to attend a teacher’s detention will result in a referral to administration.

Courses may be added or dropped prior to the completion of ten instructional days.Courses dropped within this time period will not appear on the transcript.No courses may be dropped after this time. Classes will not be changed forteacher preference.

Emergency procedures are established in coordination with base officials and DoDEA safety and security personnel. In all cases of emergency, parents will receive information via base and school Ad Hoc. Fire drills are the most common drill practiced, but throughout the year, the school will practice and/or review lockout, lockdown, evacuation and shelter procedures.

Please keep the school (registrar) informed of any changes in mobile phone, duty phone, home phone and emergency phone contacts. Students will not be released to any person other than a designated emergency contact.

Examinations are given throughout the school year. Semester exams are scheduled for the last week of each semester. Parents and students must make arrangements to ensure attendance during these times. The only excused absences during semester exams will be for emergency situations. If a student is absent for any other reason during this time, it is unexcused.

Grade point average is calculated on a point system with an "A" counting four points, a "B" three points, a "C" two points, a "D" one point, and an "F" zero points. A weighted point value has been assigned to each letter mark in Advanced Placement (AP) courses. This weighting will be used to determine class rank and for other competitive purposes. The weighting will be as follows: A-5, B- 4, C-3 and D-2. The Valedictorian and the Salutatorian will be determined at the end of the eighth semester during the senior year.

Students have an opportunity to earn weighted grades by taking Advanced Placement classes at HMHS or via the DoDEA Virtual School. *Students enrolled in Advanced Placement (AP) classes MUST take the AP exam in that subject area in the spring in order to receive AP weighted credit on their transcripts.

• There are two seminar sessions for students: Session 1 and Session 2.
• Students must stay with the teacher who requested them for the entire session.
• If a student is only requested for Session 1, he/she should return to the original seminar class after completion of Session 1.
• Students may only go to classes for which they have been requested. If you have not been requested, you do not leave seminar. Do not ask to be requested directly before seminar; please plan ahead.
• If a teacher is going to keep a student for the entire seminar time, the initial request must indicate it; this makes it possible for the seminar teacher to note it before student transit.

Hohenfels High School offers Tigers opportunities to learn strategies, get organized, receive assistance with homework and have a quiet place to study and to complete homework on a voluntary basis on Saturday mornings. This is a non- punitive educational opportunity to improve grades.

DoDEA policy is to assign homework to all students capable of completing assignments. Homework is part of a student’s school day and assignments are to reinforce instruction, increase understanding and retention, transfer and extend classroom instruction, prepare for class discussion, and provide curriculum enrichment opportunities. Students enrolled in AP classes can expect 15-20 hours of outside work per week. See further information on the homework make-up policy under attendance.

Honor roll is based on Semester Grades. No D’s or F’s are allowed.

• Honor Roll with Distinction ⇒ 4.0 or higher
• Honor Roll ⇒ 3.5 - 3.99
• Honorable Mention ⇒ 3.0 - 3.49

In cases of inclement weather, the Mission Support Group Commander coordinates school closure with the school Principal. When school is canceled because of inclement weather, or when the school/base implements a two-hour delayed start in the morning, announcements will be made on the following local stations beginning at 0630: AFN Bavaria radio at 93.5 FM in Hohenfels or listen online at AFN 360.

Parents can be proactive in the morning in finding-out the current road conditions by accessing the home page at www.facebook.com/usagbavaria/hohenfels and view “Road Conditions” or call the weather line for Hohenfels, DSN 466-4001 or CIV 09472-83-4001. When road conditions are “Red,” school is normally delayed for two-hours (bus departures are delayed two-hours from their normal departure times).

Incomplete grades are only granted in the case of a medical emergency, emergency leave, or other extenuating circumstances. Incomplete grades must be approved by the administrators. Incomplete work must be made up within ten (10) instructional days following the marking period. It is the student's responsibility to initiate the action to complete the course requirements within the specified timeframe.

 All incomplete grades will automatically be changed to an "F" grade after ten instructional days. It is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements with the teacher to update the incomplete grade.

The Information Center (IC) at HMHS is open from 7:50 am until 3:20 pm. Students, staff, and parents may use the information center during and after school hours. During school students may use the information center independently with teacher permission, or when accompanied by their class. Students may use the IC before school, at lunch time (with a pass), as long as they are respectful and responsible. Students can get passes to visit the IC during seminar; they are asked to plan ahead! Parents, staff and community stakeholders are welcome anytime the Information Center is open. Eating/drinking in the Information Center is not permitted.

Lockers are available for student use. The administration reserves the right to search any locker given reasonable suspicion. When possible, the student will be present for the search.

• School lockers are not to be shared.
• No graffiti is allowed inside or outside lockers.
• Pictures inside lockers are acceptable only if taped onto the inside of the lockers. No obscene pictures or drawings are permitted. Students will be asked to remove anything seen in a locker that is not proper. Use good judgment on what is displayed in the locker.
• The locker area inside and out must be kept clean.
• Lockers are to be kept locked at all times.
• Personal locks are allowed on gym lockers only.
• Gym lockers are available to PE students for daily use only. Student athletes may use a locker for their sports equipment and clothes during the season. At the end of the sports season all lockers must be emptied and cleaned by the athlete. Athletes should provide their own lock and athletes must keep their locker locked.
• It is the student’s responsibility to lock up valuables/money to prevent theft.

Students who find lost articles are asked to take them to the attendance office, where the owner can claim them. Small items, to include, glasses, jewelry, and wallets should be turned into the office. If identified, identification cards and wallets are returned to the owner immediately. At the end of each quarter, unclaimed items are donated to an off-base charity. Please note that keeping “found” property is stealing.

Classrooms are not to be interrupted to deliver personal messages (except in emergency situations approved by administration), lunch money or school supplies/assignments. This can be accomplished at the lunch break or after school. Please do not text or call students during class time. Deliveries and telephonic contact can be accomplished before school (up to 0800) during lunch break or after school.

The HMHS PTSO is a volunteer organization dedicated to supporting students, teachers and educational programs. The support provides supplementary assistance to activities for which other fund sources are insufficient or non-existent.

Students with partial schedules due to home-schooling or other reasons may only be on campus during their scheduled classes. A student may make prior arrangements to meet with a teacher if they require assistance.

Senior students who have fulfilled all requirements, academic and otherwise, will be allowed to participate in the June graduation exercises. Those students failing to meet the requirements will be notified prior to the ceremony and their privilege of participating withdrawn. Students will be required to purchase the selected cap, gown and tassel. All graduation rehearsals in June are MANDATORY in order to participate in the graduation ceremony. The graduation ceremony is a privilege, not a right. Students are expected to conform to the GRADUATION PROTOCOL in order to be eligible to attend the graduation ceremony. Questions are to be referred to the HMHS administration. 

For preplanned absences: a request needs to be submitted by the sponsor by filling out the pre-arranged absence form. This form may be obtained from the attendance or registrar’s office.
Please follow the following steps:

1. Student/Parent fills out a pre-planned absence form (available from the attendance office).
2. Administration signs the form.
3. Students have teachers complete the pre-approval form and then submit it to the attendance office.
4. A copy is then given to the student and a copy is retained and filed in the student's folder.

Students going on school/sports trips need to meet with their teachers in advance. Pre-arranged absence forms will be provided by the sponsor/coach.

The parent or sponsor should attempt to schedule appointments before or after the school day to minimize disruption of the educational environment. If this is not possible, then the next best option is to use the lunch/seminar block on red days.

Prior to approving an excused absence, school administrators must consider the following factors:

• The student is in good academic standing.
• The student has a record of consistent school attendance during the current schoolyear.
• Review of the impact previous extended absences from school have had on the student's educational program during the current school year.

Many colleges use rank in class as one consideration for college entrance. Final class rank is determined on 8 semesters of work and is recorded as a fraction (for example 16/124). This means that a student is ranked number 16 from the top in a graduating class of 124 students. HMHS computes class rankings for each full time senior student using weighted GPA at the end of the 12th grade year. Only final senior transcripts will include class rank.

1. Requests for activities must be approved by the administrative office at least ten (10)calendar days prior to the event.
2. School sponsored social activities will not be scheduled to take place during school recess periods or the day preceding recess, Sundays, optional Federal Holidays.
3. No activities may be scheduled if anticipated expenses are not covered by funds on deposit before the activity.
4. Access to community facilities is limited. Plan well in advance. Location information is available from the administration.
5. Use of school facilities (cafeteria and gymnasium) must be coordinated with Administration. Early booking is recommended to allow time to resolve conflicts.

Sponsor’s duties include the following:

1. Faculty sponsors are responsible for implementation of school policy.
2. From time to time, student organizations will place posters about the school. Prior to being displayed, posters must be initialed by the sponsor to ensure that all posters are grammatically correct and in good taste. All posters must be removed immediately after the event being publicized has been completed.
3. Arrange for contracts for halls, bands, decorations, etc. These contracts may not be signed without first obtaining the written approval of the sponsor and the Principal.
4. Arrange for clean up after the activity.
5. Obtain checks for band, club, etc.

A. Supervision of Social Activities:

1. A minimum of three (3) chaperones (including two members of the staff) must be present at all times for activities such as dances or banquets. Commitments from six chaperones should be obtained prior to seeking administrative approval for the activity.
2. The activity sponsor must be present throughout the activity. Other chaperones maybe scheduled on an alternating basis. The schedule for chaperones must be presented to the Assistant Principal prior to the function.

B. Rules for Chaperones:

1. The main concern is to allow students to have a good time within the limitations of safety, discretion, and the widely different parental expectations that exist.
2. Use of tobacco is not allowed.
3. No students are to be admitted to activities that give indication of recent consumption of alcoholic beverages or who display erratic behavior. (Suspension from school may be involved for students violating our rule concerning use of alcohol or other drugs.)
4. All normal school policies concerning student behavior apply to school sponsored activities regardless of location or local customs.
5. Once students enter the event/dance, they are not permitted to leave and then return.

C. Chaperones should:

1. Circulate in the dance area.
2. Periodically check rest rooms
3. Periodically patrol the outside of the buildings
4. Help with entrance supervision
5. Advise the sponsor if any students are observed smoking, drinking, using drugs, or behaving improperly.

The administration office is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Classes begin at 8:10 a.m. and end at 2:50 p.m. Students may remain on the school campus after hours to take part in school-sponsored activities. The activity bus departs HMHS at 5 p.m. Thursdays (Collaboration Day) are early release days, so students are dismissed at 1:50 p.m. and there is no activity bus.

In all discipline cases the administration reserves the right to determine disciplinary consequences. In addition, host nation authority will prevail when students are involved in potential criminal matters to include, but not limited to: bullying, harassment, theft, vandalism and the possession of illegal substances or weapons. School administrators have the authority to conduct random and periodic searches of school property and to seize contraband items belonging to students as well as search student possessions and person when there is a reasonable suspicion that a student is in possession of prohibited items. Students may be disciplined based on evidence gathered through online, digital and surveillance equipment.

For discipline purposes, the school day begins the moment the student leaves their home to come to school and ends when they return.

Bicycles
Bicycles are not to be ridden on campus during school hours. Bicycles are not to be ridden on the school lawn. Security of bicycles is the responsibility of the owner.

Student POVs
Students are expected to register their POV’s with the Assistant Principal. Students driving cars to school must be properly licensed and obey all on-base driving rules. Students are not excused if they arrive late to school in private vehicles. Students are not to park in designated teacher parking which includes all parking spaces in front of the high school during the school day and extracurricular activities. Student drivers are not to transport other students to any destination. Students are not to use their POV’s during instructional class time. Student drivers must follow all safety laws.

Every recognized student group must have a faculty sponsor.

Athletics
The athletic teams participate with other DoDEA-Europe Division III schools. Tournaments are scheduled at the end of the regular season of play. See the athletic section for more detailed information.
Drama
Each year the drama department presents several plays performed for the community. Plays vary in content and scope dependent on the students involved.

Music
When enrolled in band or chorus classes, students may participate in the community band, jazz band, honors music festival, recitals, concerts, band exchanges, and other special events as scheduled.

National Honor Society
The National Honor Society, sponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals, recognizes and fosters academic achievement while developing other characteristics essential to citizens of a democracy. Through chapter service activities, members maintain and extend the qualities that were the basis of their induction. Students must be second semester sophomores or higher with a cumulative (weighted) GPA of 3.5 or higher and have completed a full semester at HMHS to be considered for membership. However, the semester rule may be waived for students transferring in from other DoDEA schools where the grading system and standards are the same.

Exceptional scholarship alone does not guarantee membership. Each potential member is expected to fill out and return an information sheet about him/ herself. A student who ultimately does not turn in the information form is assumed to have no interest in being selected for NHS membership.

The Faculty Council is a five-member board appointed annually by the Principal and chaired by the NHS sponsor, (a non-voting member). The Faculty Council evaluates the student’s past and continuing participation in school AND community activities (which may include, but are not limited to Scouts, church groups, volunteer services for the aged, poor, or disadvantaged; and work in charity shops, hospitals, special homes, or schools), leadership roles, and work experience. Recognition awards and evaluations by faculty members are also considered to ensure that each student selected meets the standards of the National Charter. In other words, the Council determines whether the student fulfills the requirements of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. The sponsor notifies students of results in person.

Students new to HMHS who have been inducted in their previous schools should contact the sponsor and present a membership card or certificate of membership.
Membership in NJHS does not carry over into NHS.

Honor Societies – individual subjects
HMHS offers honor society membership in Mathematics. New honor societies are being introduced every year!

Student Council
The executive student council is elected in the spring of each year for the following year. They are responsible to assist with the beginning of the year orientation activities.
Throughout the year the executive board is responsible for school-wide activities and directing class events. In the fall, students may run for student council class officer positions. Other students can join student council.

Student Congress
Towards the beginning of the year, seminars will elect one student to represent their seminar in the Student Congress. The Student Congress is a way that the student body can bring concerns and ideas to the executive board through a meeting once a month during a seminar.”

Video Productions
Through video productions classes, students learn to produce and display video projects for special events.

Yearbook
The yearbook is published annually. Students are encouraged to talk with the yearbook advisor as enrollment in the yearbook class is required.

DoDEA-Europe Student Activities
The European area office sponsors many activities independent of anything else in the school system while others are offshoots of participation in a school-based activity.
For some, students must compete at the school, district, or European level for selection. Other activities allow many students to participate. Students need to commit their time in order to prepare for participation. Criteria are announced when the activity is advertised.

Creative Connections
Students apply to participate in a weeklong seminar emphasizing the fine arts. The weeklong seminar culminates with performances, displays, and demonstrations in the areas of dance, theater, literature, and art.

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)
Students have the opportunity to compete in events testing their business knowledge and skills learned in their local FBLA chapter.

Honors Band, Choir, and Jazz Band
Students compete to be selected to perform in these honors-music programs at the DoDEA- Europe level. Sessions end with culminating performances with students from all over Europe.

International Student Leadership Institute (ISLI)
Students from European and DoDEA high schools come together to discuss and practice leadership skills. The activity is organized and run by a board of directors composed of British, Dutch, Czech, and American teachers and students.

Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) Summer Camp
The US Army and Air Force sponsors summer camps for JROTC students to sharpen cadet leadership and basic military skills.

Junior Science & Humanities Symposium (JSHS) (School Club)
Students interested in the sciences, engineering, or mathematics work on original projects at school then compete in the DoDEA-Europe Regional for scholarships and awards.

Model United Nations (MUN) (School Club)
MUN is a simulation of the United Nations. Students are assigned to play various UN roles.

STEMposium
Students from grades 9-11 will participate in the event that is designed to introduce them to a real-world engineering scenario which requires the application of science, technology and math.

School Social Activities
School social functions form an important part of our extra-curricular program. When the administration approves a request, the activity is placed on the official Google activity calendar. Do not advertise until the activity is officially approved and on the calendar. Every event must be sponsored by a recognized student group by the school administration.

The Student Support Team (SST) consists of the counselors, psychologist, nurse, teachers, and administrators. The team monitors, evaluates and refers students who are experiencing difficulty in social or academic settings as well as students with a GPA under 2.0, those who are on a Student Educational Monitoring Plan (SEMP), or those who have seven or more absences in a semester. The team meets regularly to review crisis and safety plans. Parents and teachers can refer students to the SST team.

For example, if a student is absent on a “blue” Monday and return to school the next day, “black” Tuesday, they may request work from the teacher on the next “blue” day (Wednesday) and are expected to return completed work on “blue” Friday. An exception to this policy exists when a teacher has a published syllabus of assignments and due dates; in that case, students are expected to turn the work in upon their return. Additionally, if an absence results in missing a test, students must make arrangements to reschedule the test upon return to school.

Authorized study field trips are scheduled throughout the school year for the purpose of enriching the curriculum. PARENT PERMISSION SLIPS must be turned in to the sponsors of the trip by the date specified. Absences due to such activities are excused and students may be required to turn in work ahead of time or upon return to school.

A field/study trip is a part of the regular curriculum supported by DoDEA standards. All students enrolled in the class making the field/study trip should be given the opportunity to participate; however, academic eligibility rules may apply. The sponsor of the field/study trip is responsible for informing other staff members and the school office of the date, time and an alphabetized roster of participants for the field/study trip. Due to force protection considerations and the need for the Garrison Commander as well as the Community Superintendent to sign off (following a security assessment), all requests for study and co-curricular activities need to be submitted at least three (3) weeks in advance of the date of the requested activity to the assistant principal via the trip request form with the educational objective delineated. No activity may be entered into the Anti-Terrorism Tracker or placed on the calendars until approval has been obtained. The Assistant Principal will inform the teacher of the approval and then teachers will use the online ATT to initiate the trip.

Parental Permission forms are required of all students on field/study trips. These forms are to be in possession of the sponsor while on the field trip. Standard forms are available on the common drive. A teacher should not schedule field/study trips for the same class or group of students in consecutive weeks. No field/study trips are to be scheduled after the third Friday in May. Overnight field/study trips require the approval of the principal and the District Superintendent’s Office. The procedure for such approval is outlined in the DODEA Administrator’s Guide – Manual 2005.1, available in the principal’s office. The request for an overnight field trip must be made at least two months prior to the scheduled date(s) of the trip approved by the Community Superintendent.

On the day of the field/study trip:

• Sponsor and chaperones are to review the rules of behavior, expectations, dress, and times prior to the departure of the trip.
• Students are responsible for all personal items.
• All school rules are in effect during the duration of the trip, including dress code.
• No alcoholic beverages are to be consumed by students, chaperones, or other personnel on the field/study trip.
• Bus seating arrangements are to be established, maintained and supervised by the sponsor and chaperones throughout the trip. Typically male and female students on opposite ends of the bus.
• A First-Aid kit is available from the nurse’s office to carry on the trip. The kit should be returned to the nurse on completion of the trip.
• Sponsors and chaperones should inspect the bus prior to having students board. Any damage should be noted, in writing, and discussed with the driver prior to having students board. The sponsors and chaperones should also inspect the bus, with the driver, following the last student leaving the bus. Any damage or concerns should also be noted at this time.
• Arrangements should be made with the supply technician to have a supply of garbage bags available for cleaning the bus at the completion of the trip.
• The sponsor is to contact the administration with information regarding emergencies that arise during the trip.
• Teachers should take a school cell-phone on field trips. In the absence of a school phone, teachers should make every effort to obtain a working cell phone. Please leave your cell phone number with the office.
• Teachers are to notify the IOC 09641 70 526 3025 /DSN 526-3025 prior to leaving the post, when you arrive at your location, when you are leaving from your location and when you arrive back to post.
• If the trip is to return after the scheduled end of the school day or scheduled departure time for activity buses (1715), the sponsor is to contact the school administration and the IOC 09641 70 526 3025 to provide information regarding the anticipated time of return.
• If a problem arises on the trip, the sponsor is to make a timely written report of the incident to the administration.

Suspensions from 1 to 10 days require involvement of school administration, sponsor, and command officials. Students and parents will be notified of the reason for the student’s suspension. A letter of suspension will be sent home to the parents, the school liaison, and the district superintendent with the conditions of the suspension fully noted.

Suspensions are considered excused absences; therefore, suspended students have the privilege of making up work for credit. A condition of the suspension may be a referral to the Alcohol Substance Abuse Counselors (ASACs). Upon return to school, the student must contact his/her teachers to arrange make-up work. As with any excused absence, students have an equal number of days to turn in the work. Parents may request work for extended suspensions. Assignments will be graded as though the student was in class.

During the time students are suspended, they may not be present at the school or attend any school-sponsored activities. This includes weekend events that fall within the suspension period. Students who violate this prohibition from being at school or at school activities will have additional consequences. A parent conference will be requested prior to readmission. In addition, student athletes who are suspended may not participate in the next scheduled DoDEA-E competition as stated in the DoDEA-E Interscholastic Athletic Policy.

A formal Discipline Committee Hearing, governed by DoDEA Regulation 1347.01, will be held in the event that a student is suspended for more than ten days.

Passing time between classes is five minutes. Students must be in the classroom ready to work when the starting bell rings or they will be counted tardy. Students, who are detained by school staff, and consequently late to class, will be given a hall pass. Students who arrive late to school for the day and are excused will report to the attendance office where they will sign in and be given an admit slip to class. The following disciplinary consequences apply quarterly:

• Three total tardy ⇒ Warning email sent to student
• Five total tardy ⇒ After School Detention with parent email
• Seven or more total tardy ⇒ Further Consequences to be determined
• Alternate means of discipline will be considered for repeat offenders

The Top Tiger Awards are for two seniors who are pretty much top in everything-- truly representative of what a Tiger should be. They need to have a "history" at HMHS, i.e., they have to have been here for longer than just their senior year and have truly made contributions to the school through service and school spirit. The Top Tiger Awards are not just about scholarship.

The transcript is the official record of a student’s school career. The academic career is recorded on the transcript. HMHS maintains transcripts for four years after a student graduates.

For current Hohenfels Middle High School Students, please see the registrar in room 101 to request a copy of your transcript in person.

To obtain a copy of an official transcript after graduating, write to:

Hohenfels Middle High School Attention: Registrar Unit 28214 APO AE 09173-8214

Or email the registrar at Hohenfels.registrar@dodea.edu

Students cannot learn effectively if they do not attend class. Students who skip school, fail to bring a note, or fail to have parents contact the school after three days beyond an absence will be considered truant. Incidents of truancy are considered for the entire year. If the student is truant for one period, an after- school detention will be assigned. 

Truancies for multiple periods will result in Saturday school. Unaccounted time away from seminar can also result in truancy. Students who habitually skip class may also be suspended. The command will be notified if disciplinary consequences do not correct behavior. Truancies will be considered cumulatively for the year.

Students may not make up work after an unexcused absence resulting from truancy. Disciplinary consequences are invoked in the case of unexcused absences resulting from truancy. Participation in extracurricular activities may be denied due to excessive and/or unexcused absences at any time.

• Absence from school or a class without written verification from a parent or sponsor will be unexcused.
• The parent or sponsor will be notified by the administration, or designee, each time a student is "absent unexcused" from school.
• School personnel will work collaboratively with the student's parent or sponsor to identify the reason(s) for the truancy and in assisting parents or sponsors whenever possible.
• Unexcused absences may result in disciplinary action (i.e., detention, in-school suspension, and expulsion), command notification, along with loss of credit, if the student does not comply with an intervention plan. An administrative conference with the sponsor and student will take place after even (7) unexcused absences in a semester.

Unexcused absences also include:

• Oversleeping
• Missing the bus or ride
• Seeing friends or relatives off at the terminal
• Non-school sponsored functions
• Family trips
• Not attending school on USAFE training/goal days
• Moving/Packing out
• Babysitting
• Class “Skip Day”

NOTE: The above list is not all-inclusive.

When students return to school after an unplanned absence, they must bring in a note if the parents have not called or emailed the school from an official email address. Three days are allowed to verify the absence. In the case of unplanned excused absences, students are allowed to make up the class work. 

It is the student’s responsibility to obtain the required assignments. Upon return to school, students will have the opportunity to make up tests, quizzes, or class work and get clarification from teachers. The teacher has the right to refuse to grant credit for make-up work if it is not completed within the time limit established.