Vicenza HS: Policies & Procedures

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

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

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

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

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

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

The following documents are necessary to complete the registration process:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The acceleration request must be initiated at least four weeks before the final school day. The Europe South District Office establishes the dates for acceleration. Students must be in attendance for the entire acceleration day.

Orders and a letter indicating the student's last day in school should be brought to the registrar. It is the student’s responsibility to take the acceleration form to teachers and complete the required work and examinations before departure.

• Three (3) days prior to the acceleration date, students will receive a clearance form from the Registrar, which must be completed by teachers and other staff members before departure and returned to the Registrar.
• Payment for books or other items must be made before clearance can be completed.
  • Parents must call ahead to arrange for records pick up.

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.

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

Requirements

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

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

	School Year 2019-20, Class of 2023 Entering 9th grade in school year 2019-20
	School Year 2020-21, Class of 2024 Entering 9th grade in school year 2020-21
	School Year 2021-22, Class of 2025 Entering 9th grade in school year 2021-22
	School Year 2022-23, Class of 2026 Entering 9th grade in school year 2022-23

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:

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.

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

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

Students shall:

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

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

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 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. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our student transportation program's vital and overriding objective is the safety of all our student riders. This program is an extension of the school ground to your residence. Student transportation, unlike almost all other education mission activities, carries with it not only a direct responsibility for the well-being of those who receive its services, but it is also the one activity in which a failure can have immediate life and death consequences. The program's safety task is carried out by proactively identifying and then taking any action that controls and reduces the risk to students.

Much of our policies cover this critical aspect to ensure the safety, security, well-being, and comfort of our student riders. For these reasons, the safe operation of school buses is also directly proportional to the proper conduct by the students that ride on those buses. Parents and school officials are partners in providing guidance and instruction to students who will be using the school bus transportation privileges provided by DODEA-Europe.

It is vital to share with students the responsibility of student behavior on the bus. Parents must ensure that their students understand the rules for riding the school bus and that they follow those rules.

When children disobey the rules, they make the bus unsafe for every other student on that bus. Bus drivers must not be distracted from safe driving by children’s misbehavior. Students must show respect for bus personnel and follow their instructions. Additionally, parents must ensure the safety of their student to and from the bus stops and while waiting at the bus stop. Additional information regarding bus stops and operations are covered in a chapter below.

As you can imagine, we heavily rely on parents and sponsors to teach their children proper behavior and bus rules. Accordingly, bus rules will be strictly enforced. All violations of expected student behavior or school bus safety outlined in this handbook will be investigated and reported to the school’s administration, Principal or designated representative, for possible disciplinary action. Students not complying with school bus rules may have their bus riding privileges suspended or revoked. School administration will notify the sponsors by telephone and/or in writing of any action taken. If a student gets suspended from bus riding privileges parents and sponsors are required to make their own arrangements for the children to get to and from school.

COVID 19 Information:

DODEA has put in place numerous safety requirements and precautionary measures that follow CDC and DODEA guidance to ensure students are protected against and reduce the risk of COVID-19. We also follow Garrison and host nation recommendations and policies complementing DoDEA COVID-19 Operational Guidelines and Protocols for Schools. Health Protection Conditions (HPCONS) determine school environment, protection postures, and level of school activities allowed; conditions dictate measures. Social distancing, face coverings, hand sanitizing, and other health protection mitigation actions such as: bus seating assignments, seating-by-siblings or maximum allowable bus capacities are important tools that we use to protect our students against the virus and facilitate possible contact tracing actions by Public Health.

For more information on our Transportation Guidelines and our Bus Registration Form, please visit your School's Transportation Page.

Vicenza ES
Vicenza MS
Vicenza HS

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. 

At Vicenza Community Schools, we expect students to dress in weather appropriate, modest, clean clothing that is not provocative, revealing, or offensive to anyone. Students should dress in a manner that is not distracting to themselves or to others. Both boys and girls must wear clothing that covers the torso and thighs. Shirts with straps should be 2 inches in width as per the student handbook. Students must wear footwear. The final determination of whether the dress is appropriate for school rests with the principal.

Continuous ringing of the fire alarm signals a fire drill. Students must follow the directions of teachers and other adults. When the fire bell is heard, students under the direction of the teacher are to proceed in an orderly manner, without unnecessary noise, to the designated area. All students must wait quietly in their designated area until they are released to go back to class. If the fire alarm sounds between classes, or when a student is not in the classroom, students are to proceed outside and join their last period class/teacher. They will return to class upon the direction of the teacher. It is each student's responsibility to know the direction of exit for each room in which he or she has a class. Appropriate instructions are posted in all locations. Drills are held regularly throughout the school year.

During other emergencies, like lock-down, lock-out, earthquake, or bomb threat, teachers will be notified on the school intercom. Students must follow all teacher instructions. Lock-outs, lockdowns, evacuations, and shelter-in-place drills are conducted regularly throughout the school year.

If an emergency closing of school is required, it is usually due to the weather. Cancellation of classes because of inclement weather is extremely rare in Vicenza. However, conditions will be announced on AFN radio/TV.

The USAG Vicenza Commander will contact the DoDEA school principals to formulate a joint recommendation for the school closure or delay. The decision for a delayed start will be made no later than 0500 of the day the delay is to occur.

Other factors that may bring about the closing of school are lack of water or heat, a health epidemic, military alerts that affect the civilian community and other emergencies that allow the community commander to close the school.

The AAFES school lunch program is the sole provider for all school meals for our students. The meals are located in the school cafeteria. Students may earn the privilege of off campus lunch with a valid lunch pass. Off-campus lunch locations are as follows: food court, Shoppette, Commissary, Burger King, Mensa and movie theater food vendor area. Any student found in an unauthorized location will have their lunch pass revoked. Students are not allowed to leave Post during lunch.

Lunch passes are issued to all students in good standing, except first-semester 9th grade students. Lunch passes may be revoked for a variety of disciplinary reasons, or at the request of a parent. See the Attendance section above for more details.

Students should avoid eating during class or in the hallways, and should eat before school, during lunch, or after school. Water is generally permitted. Teachers may make rules regarding eating and drinking for their individual classrooms. Medical exceptions can be made by working with the school nurse.

Before school, students should enter the building through the cafeteria door. Students are not allowed to enter the cafeteria earlier than 0730. If a student rides the bus, the student will enter through the doors designated for bus riders and then report to the cafeteria. All students will remain in the cafeteria until the first bell at 0805. Students are not permitted to leave the cafeteria for any reason without administrator approval. Administration will release seniors from the cafeteria first. Loitering after school is not permitted. Students are to report to their buses immediately, depart school grounds, or report to their after school activity.

Lockers: Each student will be assigned a locker and a combination. Students should make sure the locker is locked at all times. The school cannot be held responsible for loss or theft from lockers. Failure to comply with the guidelines below may result in suspension of locker privileges. 

• Students will use the locker assigned. No trading or sharing is allowed.
• Only decorations promoting school activities or spirit may be placed on the outsides of lockers. All flyers need approval from administration before being posted.
• Pictures may be placed on the inside of the lockers, barring explicit or inappropriate content.
• Students will be responsible for removing decorations at the end of the school year or when checking out of school.
• Cleanliness of lockers is the student’s responsibility, but lockers may be monitored periodically.
• Though assigned to a student, the locker remains the property of the U.S. Government. Abuse of the locker will result in the student being held financially liable to the U.S. Government.
• Lockers for physical education classes will be handled within the Physical Education Department. 

Information Center (IC): The IC is a school resource, with mixed use between individual
students and active classes. The following rules apply to the IC:

• The IC is open for students to read, do research or study quietly during school hours. A student must have a valid library pass from his/her teacher to be there.
• Students may loan books for up to three weeks, with renewal if needed. Loaned materials may be deposited in the book return at the circulation desk. The loaning student is solely responsible for books he/she checks out of the library. If a book is lost, sponsors must pay for a replacement of the lost book or material.
• Students may check out reference materials at the end of the last class period and it must be returned the next morning before the first class period.
• Permission to visit the IC during Seminar is granted by seminar teachers. Generally, one student per class is allowed to visit the IC each session. Students needing to meet as groups during this time should see the information specialist in advance.

Flyers and Posters: All notices for bulletin boards, posters, daily bulletins, flyers or handbills, or any type of advertisement distributed on school premises (other than faculty sponsored) must have prior administrative approval and must be removed as soon as they are no longer in effect. 

Lost and Found: The school cannot accept legal responsibility for items that are lost or found at school. Found items are to be turned in to the high school office. The school make a good faith attempt to return lost items. The school is not responsible for stolen items – students are responsible for keeping their property safe at all times. Valuable items should not be brought to or stored in the school.

Books and Other School Property: Classroom teachers issue books and other school property to students. The student and his or her sponsor are legally responsible for returning the books and other school property in good condition at the end of the course. Allowances will be made for normal wear and tear. Graffiti in textbooks is beyond normal wear and tear. Students are strongly recommended to cover each of their textbooks. Lost and damaged books, calculators, etc. can be paid for through the supply office of the high school or ordered on-line and sent to the school.

Study trips are an important aspect of the school program. The school provides transportation, but students are responsible for admission fees and lunch expenses. All study trips are chaperoned with at least one adult for every ten students. Parents must give written permission for students to participate in study trips on and off post.

School activities are an integral part of the total educational program at Vicenza High School. Each student is encouraged to benefit from the wide selection of activities available. You can request a current list of extracurricular activities from the main office, or by emailing the secretary. All students who wish to participate in extracurricular activities must maintain a grade point average of 2.0 and no more than one “F” on weekly grade check (Tuesday). All activities sponsored by the school must be under the direction of a DoDEA sponsor. Requests for all school activities and fund-raisers must be submitted to school administration at least seven days in advance.

School rules apply to students when they are engaged in the various activities sponsored by the school such as field trips, athletic events, and dances.

Communication between parents, students, and teacher is very important. DoDEA encourages face-to-face or telephonic communication when possible. Teachers should avoid using personal email accounts; communication should take place through official school email accounts. Teacher email address list is available in the front office. With respect to the educational setting, please provide at least one day's notice to the teacher for an appointment to visit the classroom. DoDEA, like the military, utilizes a chain of command. Issues are best resolved at the lowest possible level. Parents must follow the chain of command, starting with the teacher. If an issue cannot be resolved directly with teachers, sponsors have access to the assistant principal or principal. If there is no resolution at the principal level, sponsors then have access to the District Superintendent. 

To request a meeting with administration, please call the main office (637-8600 or DSN 0444- 61-8600) and ask the secretary to put you on an administrator’s calendar. The principal and assistant principal are typically not available for walk-in meetings.

School Supplies: The following list is provided as a guideline. Sponsors are expected to provide, as needed: Pens and pencils, rubber erasers, book bag or backpack, notebook and 3-ring binder, spiral notebooks, paints, colored pencils, plastic supply box, colored markers, glue, notebook dividers, tissues, paper (loose leaf and graph paper), pocket folders, highlighters, gym shoes, clipboards, scissors, protractor, compass, and rulers.

Daily Bulletins and Weekly Updates: The school will keep parents informed of school activities though daily and weekly newsletters. Student Daily Bulletins are posted to Schoology and are read over the school intercom each morning. Weekly Updates are posted to Schoology and emailed directly to the sponsor email on file.

Changes of Address/Unit/Email/Phone: Please notify the school immediately of any change in address, home or duty telephone number, unit, email address, or person to contact in case of an emergency. It is extremely important that up-to-date information be on file in the school office. If parents are on a trip and the children are being cared for by another adult, the school must have a copy of the appropriate power of attorney, as well as contact numbers for parents and those adults responsible for the children during the parents’ absence.

Noncustodial Parent Rights: Parents and/or guardians must supply the school with a copy of any type of court order that may affect the student (e.g., who is allowed to visit the child, who has legal custody, etc.). These orders will be maintained in the student’s cumulative file. If any changes take place during the school year with the court order, the school must be notified immediately. Teachers will be notified of any restrictions that affect students in their classes.

The PTSA Executive Board has elected representatives of parents, teachers, students, and administrators. The PTSA is a positive and vital force in bringing about a closer cooperative relationship between parents, teachers, students, and administrators so that their united efforts will secure for all youth the best possible mental, physical, and social education. The PTSA seeks to keep parents, teachers and students informed about school issues and to provide support for school and student endeavors.

The PTSA is a nonprofit organization that depends upon volunteers to help with projects that provide monetary assistance for supplies and activities to support school and student needs. The VHS PTSA is a member of European Congress of American Parents, Teachers and Students (ECAPTS) and thus, of the National PTA. 

School Sponsored Event Dress Code The following dress code applies to Homecoming and Spring Dance activities:

• Attire: Semi-formal
• Shirt and Pants Option: collared shirts, dress pants (no jeans), tie (optional, but preferred), dress shoes; Pantsuits are permitted.
• Dress/Gown Option: must be longer than the longest fingertip, straps are not required but the garment must not be excessively low-cut (shawl or cardigan covering is permitted); Dressy skirt and blouse is permitted, or similar formal attire as approved by admin
• No bare midriff
• Outfits with cut-outs, slits, or mesh must not reveal any of the red “target areas” (see diagram)
• Shorts, sneakers, jeans, and t-shirts are not permitted; Open-toed heels or flats are permitted

The following dress code applies to Prom activities:

• Attire: Formal
• Suit or Tuxedo Option: jacket preferred, collared dress shirt, bow tie or regular tie, dress pants, dress shoes
• Dress/Gown Option: must be longer than the longest fingertip, long gown preferred but not mandatory, straps are not required but the garment must not be excessively low-cut (shawl or cardigan covering is permitted)
• No bare midriff
• Outfits with cut-outs, slits, or mesh must not reveal any of the red “target areas” (see diagram) Exceptions to the dress code may be made by the administration in relation to special school events. In addition, all students are expected to be mindful of school representation when away from school on school sponsored events. Parents may be called to bring clothes to the student. Repeated violations of the dress code or refusal to change clothes will result in disciplinary action.

Exceptions to the dress code may be made by the administration in relation to special school events, such as pajama day during Homecoming Week. In addition, all students are expected to be mindful of school representation when away from school on school sponsored events. Parents may be called to bring clothes to the student. Repeated violations of the dress code or refusal to change clothes will result in disciplinary action.

Report: Suspected surveillance or other suspicious activity constituting a threat or potential threat to students, staff, or operations; or any incident that has the potential to compromise existing security measures and procedures.

Be alert to signs of intelligence gathering, surveillance, collecting materials for attack, and rehearsals:

• Taking photos or videos of potential targets
• Writing notes or sketching
• Showing abnormal attention to details of security measures
• People loitering in the same general area without a recognizable legitimate reason
• Certain civilian vehicles that seem to appear repeatedly
• Utility and construction workers that do not appear to be performing a specific job
• Electronic audio and video devices in unusual places

Surveillance may be conducted over a long period of time and employ various methods:

• Stationary surveillance: a common method in which operatives observe from a fixed location.
• Moving surveillance: conducted on foot or in vehicles.
• Technical surveillance: uses electronic means to record or gain access to security information.
• Casual questioning: used to elicit security information from approachable personnel.

Description of personnel: Gender, Race, Height, Weight, Clothing, Accent/dialect, Tattoos, Scars, Disabilities, Peculiarities

Description of Vehicle: Make, model, style, color, license plate

Immediately report suspected or confirmed surveillance of DODEA facilities, Buses, Bus Routes or activities (on or off installation) to either the Caserma Ederle MP Desk at 634-7626 (VMC) or Camp Darby MP Desk at 633-7510 (DMC), and the USAG Italy 24/7 Operations Center at COM 0444-71-8035/ DSN 637-8035 or email usarmy.usag-italy.id-europe.mbx.installationoperations@mail.mil.

Other reporting sources that may be available are iREPORT at DSN 634-7626/ 0444-61-7626 and iSALUTE from the USAG Italy homepage located at https://home.army.mil/italy, if available.

Other Emergency Phone Numbers:

• Emergency Reporting On Post:
  • FIRE/ EMS: 117
  • Police: 114
  • From a Cell Phone: 044-71-8911
• Emergency Reporting Off Post :
  • FIRE: 115
  • AMBULANCE: 118
  • CARABINIERI: 112
  • POLICE: 113

DoDEA AI 5205.02, Volume 1, DODEA FORCE PROTECTION PROGRAM: ANTITERRORISM, February 11, 2019

3.2.c. (2) (FOUO). DoDEA does not have an organic capability for surveillance detection or counter surveillance as identified in Volume 1 of DoD Instruction O-2000.16 and DoD Instruction 2000.26. DoDEA relies upon the installation commanders to provide this function. As such, it is not practical to integrate counter-surveillance, surveillance detection, or counterintelligence (CI) in accordance with DoD Instruction 5240.26, and other intelligence capabilities at any DoDEA operating locations.

3.15.c. DoDEA Bus Security Attendants Program. Bus Security Attendants are specially- selected, task trained adults who are assigned to ride on designated buses that transport DoDEA students on daily commutes (home-to-school and return runs). Bus Security Attendants perform four (4) tasks: pre-run bus security inspections, en-route surveillance detection, pre-attack recognition, and en-route security emergency response and management.

DoDEA PROCEDURAL GUIDE 5760.01-01 SERIOUS INCIDENT REPORTING

PROCEDURES, August 24, 2016, Section 4: Serious Incident Report Matrix, Table 6. Security Incidents, Force Protection Issues: Requires reporting of Force Protection Issues such as suspected surveillance which constitutes a threat or potential threat to students, staff or operations – if in doubt – report it! See table below:

Report: Suspected surveillance or other suspicious activity constituting a threat or potential threat to students, staff, or operations; or any incident that has the potential to compromise existing security measures and procedures.

Be alert to signs of intelligence gathering, surveillance, collecting materials for attack, and rehearsals:

• Taking photos or videos of potential targets
• Writing notes or sketching
• Showing abnormal attention to details of security measures
• People loitering in the same general area without a recognizable legitimate reason
• Certain civilian vehicles that seem to appear repeatedly
• Utility and construction workers that do not appear to be performing a specific job
• Electronic audio and video devices in unusual places

Surveillance may be conducted over a long period of time and employ various methods:

• Stationary surveillance: a common method in which operatives observe from a fixed location.
• Moving surveillance: conducted on foot or in vehicles.
• Technical surveillance: uses electronic means to record or gain access to security information.
• Casual questioning: used to elicit security information from approachable personnel.

Description of personnel:

• Gender, Race, Height, Weight, Clothing, Accent/dialect, Tattoos, Scars, Disabilities, Peculiarities

Description of Vehicle:

• Make, model, style, color, license plate

The purpose of the Vicenza High School SAC is to advise school administrators on program matters that impact on the quality of education in the local high school. It is mandated by law and consists of five voting members: three parents, three teachers and one student. Committee members are elected on an annual basis, with elections being held in the spring. Meeting times and dates will be posted on the school calendar. Meetings are open to the public, and the public is welcome to attend.

The SAC may make recommendations and advise the principal on all matters within its purview. Specifically, this includes: school policies toward students and parents, student activities and administrative procedures affecting students; instructional programs and educational resources within the school; allocation of resources within the school to achieve educational goals; pupil services (health, special education, testing, evaluation, and extra-curricular activities); and student standards of conduct and discipline.

The following student guidelines for attire must be followed: 

• Hats, scarves, bandanas, doo-rags or any non-religious headgear are not allowed to be worn at any time during the school day in any part of the school buildings/cafeteria. 
• Footwear must be worn. House slippers are not allowed. Proper shoes are needed for physical education and science classes.
• Shirts and blouses must be modest and not revealing; the midriff, torso, and backside must be covered. Excessive sight of cleavage is unacceptable.  Sleeveless clothing must cover the shoulder with fabric at least 3 fingers/two inches wide (whichever is longer). Strapless tops or dresses are not permitted.
• Legwear must be long enough to reach the mid-thigh and must maintain appropriate coverage in all school activities.
• Undergarments of any kind must not be visible. 
• Beachwear, transparent materials, and sunglasses may not be worn in school. Pajamas, robes, nightgowns, and other sleepwear may not be worn in school. 
• Clothing, jewelry, accessories, notebooks or backpacks must be free of writing, pictures or any other insignia related to drugs, sex, alcohol, or profanity, and must not be deemed offensive by members of the staff.  If a student feels something is offensive, he/she should report it to a staff member.
• Articles that can cause damage to other students or property (for example, studded bracelets, studded belts, or wallet chains) may not be worn.
• Dirty clothing and large holes are not allowed.  Clothing designed with minor tears and holes are permitted as long as the holes do not allow excessive exposure as determined by school staff.
   

Cellular telephones and smart phones may not be used during school hours without specific permission from school officials. If a phone is not concealed during class, it will be confiscated by a school employee and returned at the end of the school day, or only with the consent of a sponsor or parent, at the discretion of the school. Only during lunch, before school, and after school are students allowed to use their phones. The school office is available to assist with any emergency that may arise during the school day and to help you contact your children. School office telephones are for official school business.