2 0 1 6 -2 0 1 7

Student
Handbook

TABLE OF CONTENTS
BOARD OF TRUSTEES, ADMIN. 2

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS AND POLICIES.. 3

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES 14

ATTENDANCE. 21

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 25

UNIFORM DRESS CODE.. 26

PROACTIVE APPROACH TO SCHOOL-WIDE DISCIPLINE. 28

SCHOOL-WIDE POSITIVE BEHAVIOR SUPPORT... 29

ALTERNATIVES TO SUSPENSION 30

CODE OF CONDUCT 32

STUDENT BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT PROCESS.. 33

DISCIPLINE POLICY.. 34

TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING... 44

CALENDAR... 45

CAMPUS MAP....46

BELL SCHEDULES. 47
1

Port of Los Angeles High School Board of Trustees

President

Sandy Bradley

Vice President

Leigh Cross

Secretary

Kathy Daly

Treasurer

Mark Martis

Trustee

Pat Gannon

Trustee

John Kostrencich

Trustee

Jenny Krusoe

Trustee

Jose Ongpauco

Trustee

Teresa Pisano

Trustee

Camilla Townsend

Student Trustee

Jorge Grijalva

Port of Los Angeles High School Administration

POLAHS Principal

Gaetano Tom
Scotti
310.732.4308
Phone
310.832.1605 Fax
gscotti@polahs.net

POLAHS Assistant Principal Felicia Ivie

310.832.9201 Ext.212 Phone
310.832.1605 Fax
fivie@polahs.net

ACADEMIC PROGRAM AND POLICIES

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
The California Education Code establishes minimum requirements for graduation from California
high schools. These requirements should be seen as minimums and support regulations
established by local school boards.
The California State University (CSU) and the University of California (UC) have established a
uniform minimum set of courses required for freshman admission. The UC has created a
Doorways site that provides complete information about the high school courses approved for
university admission. In addition to the required courses, California public universities have
other freshman admission requirements.
The POLAHS curriculum requires 230 credits for graduation. In addition, Community Service
hours must be completed
Community Service: 40 hours are required and must be completed between the 9th 12th
grades. Students may contact the Leadership teacher for approved service opportunities. 30
hours must be from approved community service and 10 hours must be from college/career
exploration.
CAHSEE: All students must pass the CALIFORNIA HIGH SCHOOL EXIT EXAMINATION (CAHSEE)*.
A minimum score of 350 on both the Englis h Language Arts and Mathematics
portion are required. Students take the CAHSEE in the 10th grade.
*With the signing of SB172, there will be no administration of the CAHSEE for the 2015-16, 201617, and 2017-18 school years and will not be a condition of receiving a high school diploma.
POLAHS is WASC Accredited. All courses taken at POLAHS will be transferable to other California
high schools. Transferability of courses to other high schools and colleges will be discussed at the
incoming freshman counselor meeting, freshman orientation, open house, and parent info night.
Meetings will be held at least twice a year with counselors and drop-in meeting or appointments
can be made at any time.
Counselors Last Name Caseload
Mr. Gutierrez: A- GOM
Mr. Zarate: GON-PA
Ms. Valdivia: PE-Z

Port of Los Angeles High School Graduation Requirements

(Compliant with CA Education Code 51225.3 High School Graduation for ALL students)

3 Years

40
Credits

POLAHS Career
Technical
Education (CTE)
with
Diploma
40
Credits

20
Credits

20
Credits

30
Credits

30
Credits

Science

2 Years (Including Alg. 1)

Students who
successfully complete
Algebra I in middle school
must still complete a
minimum of two years of
mathematics in high
school.
2 Years (including
Biology and Physical
Science)

30
Credits

30
Credits

Social Studies

3 Years (Including 1 sem

of Gov and 1 sem of
Econ)
1 year
OR
1 V&P Art
OR
1 CTE
1 year
OR
1 Foreign Lang
OR
1 CTE
1 year
OR
1 V&P Art
OR
1 Foreign Language

10
Credits

10
Credits

2 Years Required of the

same
language

or
10
Credits

or
10
Credits

3 Years Recommended
1 Year Required
from a single discipline

10
Credits
(9th Grade Intro)

or
30
Credits
(20 in addition to 9th
Grade Intro)

20
Credits

20
Credits

70
Credits

50
Credits

230

230

Subject

California High School

Minimum Graduation
Requirements

POLAHS Diploma
Requirements

A-G (4 Year College)

Requirements

3 Years Required

4 Years Required

English

Math

Foreign Language

Visual/
Performing Arts

Career Technical
Education (CTE)
Pathway

2 Years
Physical
Education
Electives

4 Years Recommended

2 Years Lab
(1 biological + 1 physical
lab)
Science Required
3 Years Recommended
2 Years Required

1 Year Required
from A-G list Academic
Elective

ACADEMIC POLICIES
ACADEMIC RIGOR IN SCHEDULING
As a college preparatory school, students will automatically be scheduled into the most
rigorous course load offered at POLAHS, even when the minimum graduation requirements
have been met.
Allowable exceptions:
1) If a student's IEP has modified the student's graduation requirements or requires small
group instruction;
2) If a student has met the minimum requirement with grades of C or better, he or she may
petition the Principal to exchange a POLAHS course exceeding the minimum requirements for
UC/CSU transferable course offered at a community college. This enables advanced students
to pursue college-level courses in the disciplines not offered at POLAHS.

NO RETENTION
POLICY & ACADEMIC RECOVERY PLANS
CREDIT
DEFICIENCIES

RETENTION:
Due are
to limited
space and
staffing
POLAHS
is NOT staff
able to
Academic
Recovery Plans
createdclassroom
and monitored
by the
POLAHS
counseling
forallow
those
repeat
gradeone
level
they failare
3 ornomore
classes
in antoacademic
students students
who, as atoresult
of afailing
orshould
more classes,
longer
on track
graduateyear.
with
their respective classes. These plans are individualized to the needs of each student and set a
course of action for credit recovery and future academic success. They will often require a student
to take advantage of school site resources such as after school tutoring or Saturday study halls.
canNOT
FOR GRADUATION/ACADEMIC
Students
that fail 1program
or 2
Plans
also ON
call TRACK
for a student
to attend summer schoolPROBATION:
at POLAHS or
at an approved
classes
will
promote
to
the
next
grade,
but
are
no
longer
considered
on
track
for
of his/her choice in order to remediate a class.* All academic recovery plans are developed with
graduation.
These
will be placed
academic
probation.
to meet
thein
input from
the student
and students
his/her parent.
Failure on
to meet
the terms
of theFailure
plan may
result
terms
of academic
probation
jeopardize enrollment status. *Note: Either of the
the student
be retained
at their
currentmay
grade-level.
aforementioned
policies
may
be
appealed
overridden
the consent
of thewho
GRADE STATUS POLICY: POLAHS does notand
practice
socialwith
promotion.
Students
school
administration.
fall
25 credits
or more behind will not promote to the next grade level. If a student is
retained, he or she will not have to repeat any courses that have already been passed.
They will, however, be listed at the credit-appropriate grade level until they have earned
enough credits to promote.

MAKINGUPUPCLASSES:
CLASSES:D Dgrades
gradesearn
earncredits
creditsbut
butare
arenot
notaccepted
acceptedby
bycolleges;
colleges;therefore,
MAKING
therefore,
POLAHS
strongly that
encourages
that make
all students
class
in receive
which a
POLAHS
strongly
encourages
all students
up anymake
classup
in any
which
they
they
receive
a
D.
POLAHS
offers
a
limited
number
of
summer
school
classes.
If
POLAHS
D. POLAHS offers a limited number of summer school classes. If POLAHS does not
offer
does
not
offer
the
classes
a
student
needs
to
take,
students
may
need
to
enroll
in
the classes a student needs to take, students may need to enroll in summer school classes
school
classes at their
school/district
prior to their
home school/district
atsummer
their home
school/district
priorhome
to their
home school/district
deadlines.
Other options
deadlines.
Other
options
for
summer
school
include
concurrent
enrollment
at Harbor
for summer school include concurrent enrollment at Harbor Occupational Center,
nearby
Occupational
Center,
nearby
community
colleges
or
universities,
adult
school,
or
other
community colleges or universities, adult school, or other programs offering approved
programs
offering approved
school
graduation
and A-GThe
college
admissions
high
school graduation
and A-Ghigh
college
admissions
courses.
principal
must approve
courses.
The
principal
must
approve
a
student's
enrollment
in
all
concurrent
a student's enrollment in all concurrent coursework.
coursework.
*Additionally, students may be given the opportunity to enroll in our credit recovery program,
which is a standards-based digital curriculum designed to provide extensive support for students.

STUDENTS OFFTRACK IN FLOW CLASSES

If a student is unable to take a required class at POLAHS due to falling offtrack in a flow
sequence class, he/she must enroll in an equivalent course at an approved adult education
school, or community college during the school year. Students who do not complete the required
class on the prescribed timeline may jeopardize their enrollment status.

GRADING SCALE
90 100 = A
80 89

=B
=C
60 69 = D
59 = F
70 79

GRADING PHILOSOPHY
Grades are an essential component to the learning process if, and ONLY if, they truly reflect the
level of mastery a student has demonstrated in the given subject matter. All classes, regardless
of the subject matter, are expected to be rigorous. Our teachers are charged with the
responsibility of assigning work that is meaningful and administering assessments that truly
measure knowledge and skill. Grades should therefore be genuine and objective. Each grade
level team and department on campus has worked diligently and collaboratively to establish a
consistent and accurate grading system. It is for this reason that each department has such
strict guidelines regarding extracredit, late work, and effort & participation points. Operating in
any other fashion would be inconsistent with our collegeprep mission.

COOPERATION GRADES
POLAHS believes in assigning cooperation grades in addition to standard academic grades.
Listed below are the guidelines.
Excellent Student understands and willingly abides by all school and class rules, with very little
guidance or correction from the instructor. Student participates fully in class activities and takes
responsibility for his or her own learning.
Satisfactory Student understands and abides by all school and class rules, without undue
guidance or correction from the instructor. Student usually takes responsibility for his/her own
learning however student does not consistently contribute to the learning environment. All
POLAHS students are expected to meet this standard.

Needs Improvement Student does not consistently follow school and/or class rules, requiring
frequent correction from the instructor. Student rarely contributes to the learning
environment and does not take responsibility for his/her own learning.
Unsatisfactory Student repeatedly violates school and/or class rules, or is otherwise defiant,
disrespectful, or disruptive. Student takes no responsibility for their learning and detracts from
the learning environment.
Students with two (2) or more U's on a 5week progress report are disqualified from
participating in sports or other extracurricular activities until improvement is shown on the
next progress report. Students with two (2) or more U's on any progress or semester report
card are disqualified from sports or other extracurricular activities for the following semester
until improvement is shown on the next grade report.

INCOMPLETE GRADES
A teacher may determine that a student shall have more time to complete required
coursework due to an extended illness, death, or illness in the family, or other reason deemed
to be of an extenuating nature. The teacher may assign the student an Incomplete (I), with
a deadline to make up the assigned work. Upon completion of the assigned work or by the
deadline, the teacher will submit a grade change form to officially change the I to a letter
grade. If a student does not complete the work by the deadline, the student risks failing the
class.

MAKE UP EXAMS
The schedule for final exams is set prior to the beginning of the school year. It is in the best
interests of students to take the final exams on the scheduled dates. Should an emergency
occur that prevents a student from taking an exam the teacher should be notified immediately
to schedule a makeup exam.
If a student will be unable to attend an exam due to a nonemergency, prior permission must
be requested to take the exam on an alternate date. Making the request does not guarantee
it will be granted. Make up exams will be scheduled at the teachers convenience.

FITNESSGRAM POLICY
In the spring of 2014, the Board of Trustees adopted the following policy as it relate to the
States Fitnessgram requirement:
a) In accordance with California Education Code, all POLAHS students in the ninth grade
must participate in the Fitnessgram as part of their mandatory ninth grade P.E.
requirement unless they are exempted by a medical doctor due to an injury or preexisting medical condition. The exemption will be granted once a written letter from the
doctor has been submitted to the school.
b) Students who pass the Fitnessgram as ninth-graders do not have to retake the exam in
the tenth grade. Those who do not pass the exam in the ninth grade must retake the exam
in the tenth grade, unless they obtain a medical exemption from a doctor.
c) Students who do not pass the exam as tenth graders will not be required to continue in a
physical education class beyond the minimum requirement for graduation (currently 4
semesters).

TRANSFER GRADES
Completed coursework from other schools will be accepted for credit at POLAHS if the
following criteria are met: (Student will be placed on provisional enrollment until transcripts are
received)

The course meets equivalent standards of the POLAHS course (UC approved courses
can only be made up by equivalent UC approved courses).
The student must provide POLAHS with an official transcript before credit will be
awarded.
If the student intends to take POLAHS required classes at a community college, the
course must be approved by the Counselor or Principal prior to enrollment to ensure
the equivalency of the college class.
If a student transfers from another school midsemester, his or her transfer grades for
courses currently in progress may be factored in to the equivalent POLAHS courses, as
the POLAHS instructor deems appropriate.
POLAHS may assign partial credit for courses in progress at the previous school that are
not offered at POLAHS. Similarly, POLAHS may award partial credit for courses that a
student enrolls in midsemester in which the student was not previously enrolled at the
previous school. This will be at the discretion of the teacher. Transfer grades will be
added to the students transcript, but will not replace the grades previously earned.

VALEDICTORIAN/ SALUTATORIAN CRITERIA

Criteria
Each year the senior with the highest cumulative GPA is named valedictorian of his or her
graduating class. The valedictorian is identified at the end of the fall semester. Therefore,
cumulative GPA does not include the final semester.
Eligibility
In order to be eligible for the award, students must have been enrolled at POLA High no less
than four semesters prior to graduation. In the case of a GPA tie, both/all students with the
highest cumulative GPA will be honored as valedictorians.
Salutatorian
The student with the second highest cumulative GPA will receive the class salutatorian award. As
in the case of the valedictorian the cumulative GPA includes only the first 7 semesters

ADVANCED PLACEMENT AND HONORS COURSES

POLA High offers a wide array of ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) and Honors level courses.
Although AP classes are taught by the POLAHS faculty, they are designed to be collegelevel in
terms of academic rigor and workload. The content of an AP course is often markedly different
from its high school counterpart. Honors courses differ from AP courses in that they are not
designed to be collegelevel; however, their pacing and rigor can be equally challenging for
students. Students qualify for AP and Honors courses through a combination of test scores,
GPA, and teacher recommendations. Once admitted into an AP or Honors course, students
must remain in good standing or they can be removed. For more information regarding POLAHS
AP and Honors program please refer to the AP/Honors Handbook available at the POLAHS
website

10

PLAGIARISM/CHEATING
Plagiarism is forbidden. Plagiarism is defined as using someone elses work (i.e. text, images,
ideas) as ones own without proper acknowledgement (i.e. quotation marks, citation,
footnotes, bibliography, etc.). Plagiarism is regarded as very serious offense. Copying or
paraphrasing material/text from the work of another student, from published sources and/or
from the Internet without proper documentation constitutes academic theft. Any work that
is plagiarized will be confiscated. Furthermore, the student may face academic penalties.
The penalty for plagiarism will be...
VIOLATION

PROCEDURE

RESULTING PENALTY

First offense

Teacher reports the

plagiarism on a referral.
It will be included in
your discipline log.

Second offense

Teacher reports the

plagiarism on a referral.
It will be included in
your discipline log.

Third offense ...

Teacher reports the

plagiarism on a referral.
It will be included in
your discipline log.

The student will earn a ZERO for the work in

question.
A conference will be held with counselor.
Your parent(s) will be notified of the
plagiarism/cheating/academic theft.
Teacher may assign additional classroom
consequences.

The student will earn a ZERO for the work in

question.
The Dean will process your suspension from
school as warranted.
Your parent(s) will be notified of the
plagiarism/cheating/academic theft and of your
suspension. The required parent conference
will be held before you may return to school.
Teacher may assign additional classroom
consequences.
The student will earn a ZERO for the work in
question.
The Dean will process your suspension from
school as warranted.
You will receive a FAILING GRADE for this course
for the semester.
Your parent(s) will be notified of the
plagiarism/cheating/academic theft, of your
suspension, and that you will receive an "F" for
the semester. The required parent conference
will be held before you may return to school.
Offense may be recorded on student transcript.

11

Cheating interferes with the assessment and feedback process that is necessary in order to
promote academic growth. It may prevent further instruction in areas of weakness and delay the
student in reaching his or her potential. Examples of cheating include but are not limited to the
following:

Getting or giving your assignments to another person

Using assignments submitted in previous semesters
Soliciting to have someone do your assignments in part/or in whole for you
Having someone do your assignments in part/or in whole for you
Doing someone elses assignments for them
Copying someone elses work that includes getting stuff from the web and other forces,
not just your classmates
Submitting work that is not completely created by you
Looking at someone elses test during an exam or asking someone during the exam for
help
Possessing an unauthorized copy of an exam
Using technology to get answers during an exam
Telling someone, in detail, what answers to enter on their assignments

AERIES
We encourage parents/guardians to follow students progress more closely by checking the
students homework, grades, and test scores online 24 hours a day through Aeries. The Internet
program Aeries helps parents track students progress. If parents have Internet access at home or
at work, they can view a students attendance, grades, assignments, progress towards graduation,
and behavior in all of his/her classes at any time. Parents can even email teachers directly from
Aeries. User names and passwords are mailed out at the beginning of the year.

CONTACTING PARENTS BY TELEPHONE

The school uses an automated system, Teleparent, to call home on a regular basis to inform parents
of school events, attendance, schedule changes, holidays, or other important announcements.
Parents must make sure that the phone number on the emergency card is up todate and is best
for receiving such calls. If a parent wishes to change the contact number during the school year,
he/she must provide the office with the change in writing.

CONTACTING TEACHERS BY EMAIL

All teachers and staff members have email accounts where they can be contacted. Parents should
refer to the staff roster on POLAHS website at www.POLAHS.net. Parents can also contact
teachers by leaving a message with the main office. Parents who request a meeting must do so at
least 24 hours in advance.

12

CHILD FIND
POLAHS seeks to identify, locate, and evaluate students suspected of having a disability who
may be eligible for special education services. Parents who suspect that their child may have a
disability can contact their childs academic counselor or one of the childs teachers for further
guidance.

PARENT PARTICIPATION
The POLAHS Parent Organization (POPS) supports and encourages the education of Port Los
Angeles High School students through raising funds and providing volunteers for school
programs and activities. Membership is available to all individuals and organizations supporting
the mission of the school. To join the POLAHS Parent Organization, pick up membership
information at our front desk or visit the POPS link from the POLAHS website. Parents are also
encouraged to chaperone fieldtrips, attend board meetings, and participate in school site
council.

SCHOOL SITE COUNCIL

The SSC provides an opportunity for parent, student, teacher and staff representatives to
participate in the governance of the school. Elections for representatives take place shortly after
the beginning of each school year. For more information about POLAHS SSC, please contact the
Principal or President of POPS.

13

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
EMERGENCY DRILLS
Emergency drills such as earthquake and fire drills, are conducted during the school year. Drills
are serious practice so that everyone will be prepared should an emergency occur. Procedures
are reviewed with staff members who in turn teach them to students. POLAHS has developed
an emergency plan and has trained staff in all hazard emergency response procedures.
If an emergency occurs during regular school hours, students who are out of class are to report
to their regularly scheduled class. If at break, lunchtime, or at the end of the day, students are
to report to their previous classroom. If an emergency occurs when not on POLAHS campus,
students are to report to their supervising teacher. Supervising personnel will call the POLAHS
campus to report problems.
If the emergency extends beyond the end of the school day, students will not be released until
it has been determined that it is safe to do so. Before students are released, parents must sign
them out at the front desk.

MESSAGES AND DELIVERIES TO STUDENTS

Students may not use the school telephones except for school business or emergencies
approved by the administration.
In an effort to limit classroom disturbances, POLAHS staff will only deliver urgent messages to
students during class time. Parents should not call students cellular phone or send text
messages during school hours.
We ask that parents please avoid delivering birthday balloons, cupcakes, cakes etc. to the
school as it is generally a disruption to the learning environment.

LEAVING CAMPUS
Students are not allowed to leave campus unless a parent/guardian listed on the current
emergency card signs them out from the attendance office (please be prepared to show
identification). Parents or guardians should go to the front desk if there is an emergency and
they need to pick up their student from school. Students cannot be released from school without
parental permission. In the event that a parent/guardian is unable to pick up the student, verbal
or written permission must be given for the student to obtain an offcampus pass.

14

OFFCAMPUS PASS
Seniors are permitted to leave school grounds during their assigned lunch break upon obtaining
an offcampus pass typically issued the second month of the school year. Seniors must have
above a 2.0 GPA in order to be eligible for offcampus lunches. Excessive or unexcused absences,
tardiness, or discipline issues will result in the loss of offcampus lunch privileges.
Students must remain in full compliance with the POLAHS uniform policy while offcampus for
lunch.

PERSONAL ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT

Students will be able to bring cell phones to school; however, they may only be used before or
after school. They must be put away and turned OFF while on campus during the school day.
POLAHS discourages students from bringing any other electronic devices to campus. Any other
electronic devices such as MP3 players, IPODS, etc. must also be turned off and put away while
on campus during the school day. Students who do not follow these rules risk having their
electronic devices confiscated. Upon first confiscation the student can retrieve their device after
school from the Dean. After a repeated offense only a parent or guardian may collect the
confiscated item from the Dean. Students will be solely responsible for bringing these items to
school and must watch their belongings carefully. POLAHS is NOT responsible for lost or stolen
cell phones, digital music players, or other electronic devices.

USE OF PERSONAL ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT

Photographing, videotaping or otherwise recording individuals without their permission is
strictly prohibited.

TECHNOLOGY AND INTERNET USAGE

POLAHS offers computers in the classrooms for student use on schoolrelated assignments.
Students may not use the computers in the office or request to have documents printed from
the computers in the office. Similarly, students may not use computers unsupervised and may
not use the computers for personal use not related to school assignments. All students are
expected to obey guidelines. If students break any of these rules, they will not be allowed to
continue to use the computer network.
POLAHS provides students with computer systems to support instruction and research. Access
to these computer systems is a privilege and POLAHS may revoke this privilege and/or take other
disciplinary action against any individual who fails to comply with the POLAHS Computer Usage
Policy below. This policy may be amended from time to time.

15

Users must read carefully the Computer Usage Policy and be certain that they understand it
before using a computer system provided by POLAHS. Please contact the Executive Director or
designee with any questions. Your use of Resources (defined below) signifies that you have read
the Computer Usage Policy and agree to follow it.
Violations of the Acceptable Computer Usage Policy may result in:
(i) Suspension or revocation of access privileges,
(ii) Disciplinary action as described in the Student Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedures,
(iii) Disciplinary procedures of POLAHS under the relevant policies for students, and/or
(iv) Civil or criminal prosecution under federal and/or state law. Penalties under such laws
Include fines, orders of restitution, and imprisonment.
POLAHS Computer Usage Policy
1.

2.
3.

4.

5.
6.

7.

8.

Users may not tamper with POLAHS computers, computer systems, networks, facilities,
equipment, software, files, documentation, accounts, or information associated with any
of them (collectively, Resources). This Computer Usage Policy regulates the direct and
indirect use of Resources both oncampus and offcampus.
All potential Users may use Resources so long as they qualify and comply with the
Computer Usage Policy. NonUsers are not permitted access to Resources.
Unauthorized attempts to gain access to Resources or any account not belonging to you,
as a User, on any POLAHS system or any other system is not permitted. Assisting others
in gaining unauthorized access to such Resources or accounts, including your own
account, is not permitted.
Users may not access or copy directories, programs, files, data, or documents
(including music and video) which do not belong to you unless you have permission
from the account holder, copyright holder or owner to do so and permission is
received in writing signed by the Principal or designee.
Except with prior explicit written permission from the Principal or designee, Resources
must not be used for commercial purposes or monetary gain.
POLAHS, the damaged party or the appropriate legal authority reserves the right to
hold you financially, civilly or criminally liable if, through negligence or deliberate
action, Resources are compromised in any way by you or someone using Resources.
Downloading music, video, movie or other copyrighted material from public networks or
peer computers is strictly forbidden unless it is specifically approved in writing and signed
by the PRINCIPAL or designee.
In the event you are assigned a password for access to Resources, you are prohibited
from disclosing your password to any individuals, except to the Principal or designee.
Users must safeguard your account and its contents, and will be responsible for any
misuse. Users may not search for, access, copy, or use passwords belonging to other
people.

16

9.

10.
11.
12.

13.

14.

15.

16.
17.

18.
19.

Use of software applications/programs or Internet sites that penetrate firewalls or

attempt to bypass secured files (such as those that are password protected) or crack or
hack user accounts is strictly forbidden unless approved and/or oversee by PRINCIPAL or
designee. In such case, permission must be in writing and signed by PRINCIPAL.
An account owner (User/Person) may not lend or transfer his/her account(s) to
another User/Person.
Each account owner is responsible for all computing activities involving that account,
and will be held liable for any misuse of that account.
Users may not use Resources to misrepresent himself/herself as another individual. If
you are a victim of such misrepresentation, you must immediately upon discovery of
the incident report the incident to the PRINCIPAL or designee.
No User may use, or attempt to use, any computer accounts other than his/her own
assigned account. The negligence or naivet of another User/Person in revealing an
account name and password does not confer authorization to use the account.
Users must have written permission from the PRINCIPAL or designee to remove or
copy any Resource owned or licensed by POLAHS. Users may not copy any software or
document unless you are licensed by the software licensor to do so, or u less the
software or document is from the POLAHS public domain library. Users may not
remove Resources from their designated places without permission of the PRINCIPAL
or designee.
Users may not use Resources to send, forward, or otherwise disseminate nuisance
messages. Nuisance messages include, without limitation, messages sent to a recipient
who has previously notified you that messages of a particular type from you will
constitute a nuisance.
Users may not use Resources to access obscene, graphic, pornographic, or offensive
material.
Users may not use Resources in such a way as to create or constitute, in the sole
determination of the PRINCIPAL or designee, an unacceptable burden on Resources. No
exclusive examples of such unacceptable burdens include mail bombing, creating an
excessive number of sessions, registering custom domain names, and creating
unnecessarily large files.
Users must comply with all applicable PRINCIPAL or designee technical policies. If you
have questions regarding such policies, please contact the PRINCIPAL or designee.
Users may not use Resources in connection with activities prohibited by any applicable
POLAHS policy or by any applicable laws, ordinances, rules, regulations, or orders of any
public authority having jurisdiction including, without limitation, those concerning:
trademark, copyright, and other intellectual property, unauthorized use of a persons
image, civil rights, commerce, computer usage, conspiracy, telecommunications,
defamation, forgery, obscenity, and privacy (collectively, Laws).

17

20. Email and other computer files (collectively, Files) can never be considered fully
private, particularly in light of (i) the open nature of the Internet and related technology
and (ii) the ease with which Files may be accessed, copied, a d distributed. Users are
advised to avoid sending messages by email and storing information in computer files
that are of a confidential or extremely personal nature (including, but not limited to credit
card or social security numbers).
21. Users must comply with the POLAHS Software Policy and all other applicable policies
related to Resources.
22. Any exception to the access policies stated in this Policy must be approved in writing
and signed by the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR or designee.
23. As POLAHS understands the sensitive nature of the information stored in its databases or
on its network (Information), POLAHS has a written confidentiality policy providing
protection of such Information. Every effort is used to protect the Information and
POLAHS does not allow access or use of the Information except in cases where it is
specifically required by law. Any attempt by a User to gain access to the Information or to
change, manipulate, or otherwise damage its integrity will be prosecuted to the full
extent allowed by law. Additionally, each User by using Resources explicitly understands
that the Information is confidential and as such disseminating it outside POLAHS for any
reason is expressly prohibited.
24. Access to Myspace/Facebook or other similar social network sites are strictly
forbidden on any school computer or personal device during school hours.
25. Students may not download or utilize Proxy servers under any circumstance.

TEXTBOOKS
POLAHS uses a variety of resources for research. Therefore, students may not necessarily be
assigned a textbook for every elective class as in traditional schools. However, all core classes
will utilize traditional textbooks. Textbooks are checked out to students prior to the beginning
of the school year. Students are responsible for the textbooks that are issued to them. Charges
will be applied for books that are lost or damaged. The school is not responsible for stolen, lost,
or damaged books. Report lost books immediately. If books cannot be replaced by students, the
cost of the textbook will be charged and must be paid by the end of the year. Withdrawing or
transferring students must have returned all school materials, books, and equipment before
transferring out of school. Fines may be paid by cash or by money order. Personal checks will not
be accepted.

18

VISITORS
POLAHS encourages parents and guardians to visit the school. POLAHS welcomes all visitors.
Immediately upon arrival to campus, visitors must sign in at the Main Office, and obtain a
VISITORS PASS. Visitors are expected to sign out before leaving campus.
Prospective students, who would like to visit POLAHS, may do so if accompanied by a parent or
guardian and arrange for a scheduled tour accompanied by a school administrator.
Any visitors that do not have official business with the school will not be given a visitors pass and
will be asked to leave campus.
Students may only be on campus when they are attending class as part of the school day.
Students who are on suspension, absent, or have been excused for the day are not allowed on
campus.

CHANGE OF CONTACT INFORMATION

Parents will be asked at the beginning of each school year to provide POLAHS with current
contact and emergency information. If contact information changes during the school year
(including all telephone numbers), it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to provide the
Main Office with this new information in writing. POLAHS cannot assume responsibility for
missed communications in the event that the contact information is misreported or not
updated by the parent or guardian.

COMPLAINT PROCEDURES
POLAHS maintains an open and caring environment. Should you have a concern, you are
welcome to contact a teacher, counselor, school psychologist or administrator. Most concerns
can be resolved by meeting with the appropriate staff member(s). However, in the event that
the filing of a formal complaint is desired, please submit, in writing, your concerns to the
Administration who will bring the complaint to POLAHS Board of Directors at the next scheduled
Board meeting.

STUDENT SUPERVISION
Supervision is provided for POLAHS sponsored programs, activities, and instruction only. Unless
otherwise noted for a specific POLAHS sponsored program or activity, hours of supervision at
POLAHS begins 30 minutes before school begins and ends 30 minutes after school ends.
To ensure the safety of our students, it is important that students do not arrive before their
appropriate start time and that they leave promptly at the conclusion of the school day.
Students who linger on campus will be sent home. Finally, should any student create a
disturbance by lingering before or after school, POLAHS will take disciplinary action.

19

LUNCH
Lunch break is approximately 40 minutes long. Students are encouraged to bring lunch or
purchase food from one of our vendors.

Students may not bring Energy Drinks on campus

Parents must drop off any lunches at the front desk before the start of lunch. Curbside
lunch drop off is not allowed.
Students may not order food and have it delivered to the school.
See section on offcampus passes

HEALTH SERVICES
POLAHS health services are offered at the Main Office. Although POLAHS does not have a health
specialist on staff, all teachers receive Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and basic First Aid
training. A school staff member is always available to provide assistance during school hours.
Procedures: Students in need of health services during class time must obtain a Pass from their
teacher to leave the classroom. A student must then report directly to the office where a staff
member will determine the students needs and take appropriate action.
Prescription Drug Policy: When a student must take medication at school, a parent or guardian
must bring the medication to the Attendance office in a pharmaceutical container with the
students name, physicians name, and the name of the medication, dosage, and time to be
administered clearly labeled. Students must report to the office when the medication is to be
dispensed. Students may not carry prescription medication while at school.
NonPrescription Drug Policy: POLAHS does not provide nonprescription medication. Any
prescription or nonprescription medicine must be checked in at the frontdesk prior to the
beginning of the students school day. Students may not keep medication in their backpacks or
in classrooms. A POLAHS employee will complete a log entry identifying the following: date, time,
student, and type of medication administered.

20

ATTENDANCE
Student success at POLAHS has a direct correlation with consistent and punctual attendance in
class and school related events. Students with good attendance achieve higher grades, enjoy
school more, are more successful in their pursuit of higher education, and are more employable
after leaving school.
California law states that every student shall attend school punctually and regularly and conform
to the regulations of the school. POLAHS attendance policy states that:
Students attend class regularly
Assignments missed due to school related activities or illness be promptly made up
Truancy is unacceptable
Other absences approved by the parent be minimized or avoided whenever possible
Students with excessive absences and/or tardiness will be placed on an attendance contract.
Failure to meet the terms of the contract may result in further disciplinary action and may
jeopardize enrollment status.
Attendance also impacts POLAHS ability to provide its students with an outstanding educational
program. When students are absent, POLAHS state funding is reduced.
PROCEDURE FOR CLEARING ABSENCES
When a student returns to school after being absent, he or she must provide the Attendance
Office with an excuse note and obtain a ReAdmit Pass to be signed by each teacher. It is the
responsibility of the parent and student to clear absences properly and in a timely manner.
Absences that are not cleared within 3 days of the students return to school will be considered
truancies. Absences longer than 3 days due to illness require a doctors note to excuse the
absence. A student may not participate in any afterschool extracurricular activity if he/she is
absent from school on the day of the activity.
EXCUSED ABSENCES:
Excused absences are those that are recognized by the state as legal excused absences:
Student is personally ill, and his/her attendance in school would endanger his/her
health or the health of others;
Serious illness in the student's immediate family necessitates absence; Death of family
member necessitates absence,
Special/recognized religious holiday observed by student's faith
Appearance in court
SCHOOL EXCUSED ABSENCES:
Field Trips
Academic Events
School Office Appointments
Suspension
Athletes participating in athletic event
21

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES:
Absences not defined above as excused are unexcused absences, including:
Unverified absence
Truancy
Absence due to leaving campus without permission
A tardy of twenty minutes or more
Absence due to taking an early vacation or extending a vacation.

MAKING UP MISSED ASSIGNMENTS

Students must make up their assignments, tests, and quizzes when absent within the time period
set by the teacher. Students should try to get his/her assignment(s) from their classmates or by
emailing teachers while they are absent to prevent them from falling behind. Upon the first day
of his/her return to school, it is the students responsibility to check in with the teacher about
any other missed work and due dates. Teachers set their own class policies for collecting work
from an excused absent. Make up work not turned in within the given time frame will be given a
zero.
A student who will be absent for three consecutive school days may get his/her assignments by
calling the Office or emailing the teachers directly. When requesting assignments, please keep
the following in mind:
1) Upon a request for missed work, teachers will submit the assignment to the Main Office
within 24 hours of the request.
2) Please do not request assignments for students who will be absent fewer than three
consecutive school days.

LONGTERM ABSENCE
The POLAHS approach to learning works best when each student attends every day. Although
occasional absences are unavoidable, longterm absences pose a special challenge to learning.
Class participation and group projects are vital components of the POLAHS approach, and a
students longterm absence will seriously impact his/her mastery of important course concepts
and skills. Parents/guardians of a student who is absent for an extended period due to illness,
injury, or family emergency should contact the Main Office with an estimate of how long the
student will be absent. Periodic updates would be appreciated. POLAHS faculty and staff will
work on a casebycase basis with parents/guardians to help keep an extendedabsent student
from falling behind. A student must obtain a longterm absence study contract from their
teachers if leaving POLAHS for an extended period. A student returning from an extended
absence may require supplemental tutoring and/or remediation beyond POLAHS to attain
proficiency.

22

EXCESSIVE ABSENCES AND TRUANCIES

Truancies are not acceptable at POLAHS. Truancy is defined as an unexcused absence without a
written excuse from parent/guardian or POLAHS staff member. Repeated violation of the truancy
policy will result in further disciplinary action and may jeopardize ones enrollment status. When
students choose to attend POLAHS, it is assumed that they are serious about their studies and
will avoid missing classes or activities.
If a student has 21 hours of excused absences or 11 hours of unexcused absences in a semester
per class, the student will not receive credit for the class(es). This loss of credit may be appealed
at the end of the semester by a parent/guardian through a written request for a hearing with
the Principal and/or Assistant Principal. Within three (3) days of receipt of request, a conference
will be scheduled with the student, parent/guardian, Assistant Principal, Principal, or any other
involved faculty member as needed.
If the student has a legitimate written excuse from his/her parent or guardian, his/her
attendance will be recorded on AERIES as "Excused" and he/she will be entitled to make up all
missed work. If the student does not have a legitimate parent excuse note, his/her absence will
be recorded on AERIES as "Unexcused", and he/she will not receive credit for missed work.

PARENT NOTIFICATION
Upon each class missed, the parent will be notified by our automated telephone system,
TELEPARENT. After 10 hours of excused absences or 5 hours of unexcused absences missed per
class in any given semester, parents or guardians will be notified of the excessive absences and
reminded of POLAHS attendance policy.

TARDINESS
A tardy occurs when the student is not in his or her assigned seat when the class starts. A tardy
of more than 20 minutes is considered truancy. Unexcused tardies are defined as arriving any
time after a class/activity has begun without an excuse from a parent/guardian or POLAHS staff
member. Repeated violation of the tardy policy will result in disciplinary action and may
jeopardize ones enrollment status.
Excused tardies include only the following:

Medical, dental, optical or other healthrelated appointment (with note from the
office where appointment was scheduled)

Unforeseen circumstances and family situations

Circumstances discussed with the school ahead of time and preapproved by a school
administrator.

23

All late arrivals other than those described above will be considered unexcused.
When a student is tardy, he or she must go to the office first. Students who arrive tardy but go
directly to the classroom will be sent to the office by the classroom teacher.
The school policy for unverified absence and tardiness is as follows:

1st 2nd = warning

3rd 4th = teacher conferences with student
5th 6th = teacher calls home/ teacher may assign and host a detention
7th or more = teacher may give student an after-school detention with the assistant
principal or designee

Students who fail to serve the assigned detention may not participate in extracurricular
activities. Senior may lose any senior privileges.

24

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
STUDENT COUNCIL/ASB
Student Council is an integral part of student life at POLAHS. Students, with the help of faculty,
plan and carry out the many activities and events that make POLAHS a great school. There are
plenty of opportunities for students to become involved. The purpose of Student Council is to
promote positive student morale and to plan, fund, and sponsor events throughout the year.
Students can participate in a variety of roles on Student Council or ASSOOIATED STUDENT
BODY (ASB).

DANCES AND SCHOOLSPONSORED EVENTS

Dress for most schoolsponsored social events is regular social attire. Formal attire is required
for specified dances. Any special attire will be announced prior to the dance. Students who are
not dressed appropriately will not be allowed into the event.
Students will be asked to present their POLAHS ID Card to enter schoolsponsored events.
Student must remain inside or within specified areas once they have arrived. Once a student
leaves the event, the student cannot return. Parents are expected to pick up their student
immediately following the end of the event. Students are expected to follow school rules at all
schoolsponsored events.

YEARBOOK
Each year, the Yearbook staff is charged with the responsibility of documenting the school year
at POLAHS. The POLAHS yearbook is available to purchase every June. Yearbook is a 5 credit
elective course offered outside of the school day. Students interested in taking Yearbook must
submit an application. The application will be reviewed and must be approved by the Yearbook
Advisor before being enrolled in the course.

CLUBS
There are various clubs at POLAHS to meet the diverse student interests such as Yoga club,
Peace club, Music club and more. Lists are distributed at the beginning of the school year.

SPORTS
POLAHS sports program offers a variety of athletic teams including: CrossCountry, Girls/Boys
Volleyball, Girls/Boys Basketball, Girls/Boys Soccer, Softball, Baseball, & Cheer. The Athletic
Director must approve all athletes for participation. Please see the Athletic Director for more
rules and regulations.

25

UNIFORM POLICY
The Board of Trustees of the Port of Los Angeles High School has approved the adoption of a
uniform policy. This policy requires all students to be in uniform at all times, beginning with
the first day of school. The uniform consists of shirts, pants, skirts, shorts and outerwear as
described below. As the ordering and receiving of uniforms may take some time, we suggest
orders be placed as soon as notice of school acceptance is received. The purchase of a
recommended uniform package ensures that students will be in accordance with the uniform
policy at all times.
Uniform Package:
The minimum suggested package consists of:
Three polo shirts with POLAHS logo
One outerwear garment with POLAHS logo
Two pairs of pants
POLAHS PE uniform for those enrolled in PE course
Uniform Shirt:
Collared polo shirts must be black or forest green
Uniform shirts must be the correct size
Undershirts must be black or white and seen only around the neckline
Long sleeves of any color may not be worn under short sleeve uniform shirts
Uniform Pants, Skirts or Shorts, and Socks:
Pants, skirts or shorts must be either solid black or tan [khaki] in color
Jeans are not permitted
Pants or shorts with different colored stitching or adornments are not allowed
Pants and shorts must be the correct size and worn up around the waist
Excessively baggy pants are not permitted
Skirts and shorts must be of an appropriate length (six inch inseam) Form fitting
skirts are not permitted, skirts must be no shorter than 4 above the knee
Socks may be white or black only
Solid nylons only; no patterns or torn nylons are permitted
Outerwear:
Outerwear consists of jackets and sweatshirts with official POLAHS logo
Official POLAHS sweatshirts may be worn as outerwear in cool weather
No other outwear is permitted to be worn during the school day
Sweatshirt hoods may not be worn in the classroom or in the school building
Sweatshirts hoods may only be worn outdoors for purposes of sun protection.

26

Hats:
Official POLAHS Hats are permitted only for purposes of outdoor sun protection
Dress Code Rules and Regulations:
No hats, caps, hair nets, beanies, wave caps, bandanas, headbands, dorags or any other
head gear of any kind are to be worn.
No articles of clothing may be worn inside out. Clothing, shoes, shoestrings, jewelry,
emblems badges, symbols, signs or other items which may be considered gang or tagging
related or which depicts or makes reference to drugs, alcohol, sex, violence or any obscenity
may not be worn.
No pajamas, sweat pants, stretch pants, leggings.
Belts, if worn, may not have belt buckles with excessive adornments, including but not
limited to lettering, jewels, or obscene symbols.
Clothing that is inappropriate in size shall not be worn. All pants and shorts must be
hemmed, fit at the waist, and be without tears or holes. No pants or shorts may be worn
below the waist. Pants that drag on the ground may not be worn.
Shoes must be worn at all times. Only closed toe and closed heal shoes are allowed. House
shoes may not be worn.
Religious attire can be worn (scarves, etc.).
Shorts are not to be worn with socks that meet the hem.
PE short may not be worn outside of PE class.
No writing, symbols or graphics on clothes, backpacks, notebooks or body.
Dress codes, as designated, must be followed on Theme Days or Free dress days.

27

Proactive Approach to School-Wide Discipline

POLAHS takes a team-based system approach to teaching appropriate behavior to all students in
the school. POLAHS has been successful in building school-wide procedures to accomplish the
following:
1. A Code of Conduct tied to positive behavioral expectations that are Clearly Defined. Port of
Los Angeles High Schools Code of Conduct is PRIDE, which represents a small number of positive
behavioral expectations. PRIDE at POLAHS is defined as follows:

Prepared
Respectful
Integrity
Dependable
Effort

2. The PRIDE Behavioral Expectations are Taught. The behavioral expectations are taught to all
students in the building, and are taught in real contexts. Teaching appropriate behavior involves
much more than simply telling students what behaviors they should avoid. Specific behavioral
examples are:

Being prepared means to be prepared with assignments and materials.

Being respectful means raising your hand when you want to speak or get help.
Having integrity means never copying or doing someone elses work or getting or giving
your assignments to another person.
Being dependable means to be on time.
Effort means doing your best work

3. Appropriate Behaviors are Acknowledged. Once appropriate behaviors have been defined
and taught, they need to be acknowledged on a regular basis. POLAHS has designed a formal
system that rewards positive behaviors. I Noticed are immediate forms used by the individual
teacher, at their discretion, as a tool of encouragement and a student motivator. A Pride Pass
may be awarded to encourage and reinforce positive behaviors demonstrated on a consistent
basis. Teachers can award a Pride Pass to any student, whether they teach them or not.
4. Behavioral Errors are Corrected Proactively. When students violate behavioral expectations,
clear procedures are needed for providing information to them that their behavior was
unacceptable, and preventing that unacceptable behavior from resulting in inadvertent rewards.
Students, teachers, and administrators all should be able to predict what will occur when
behavioral errors are identified.

28

School-wide Positive Behavior Support

A General Overview
The faculty and staff at Port of Los Angeles High School (POLAHS) believes that maintaining high
expectations for student behavior and academic achievement is essential to establishing a school
culture that promotes respect, tolerance, and self-discipline. The faculty and staff further believe
that these characteristics must be modeled and reinforced through the actions and behaviors of
the adult population on campus. Lastly, it is always the goal at POLAHS to avoid punitive sanctions
as a way to correct negative behavior on the part of students unless all other measures have
proven to be ineffective.

29

ALTERNATIVES TO SUSPENSION

Restitution. In-kind restitution (as a replacement of financial restitution) permits the

student to help to restore or improve the school environment either by directly
addressing the problems caused by the students behavior (e.g., in cases of vandalism
students can work to repair things they damaged), or by having the student improve the
school environment more broadly (e.g., picking up trash, sweeping classrooms, ect).
Community service. The student will perform a required amount of time in supervised
community service outside of school hours.
After-school Detention/Saturday School. After-school detention is an additional 45
minute period of time at the end of the school day supervised by the Dean. The student
must serve the detention on the scheduled detention day. Saturday school
Loss of privileges. Privileges are revoked and given back when undesirable behavior is
stopped.
Teacher/Peer Mentor. Specific teacher or an appropriate senior student is invited to
support a younger student with behavioral or academic difficulties.
Counseling. Students may be required to receive additional supports or individual
counseling from trained helping professionals (e.g., counselor, school psychologist)
focused on problem solving or personal issues interfering with learning.
Behavior Support Plan. The creation of a structured, coordinated behavior support plan
specific to the student and based on a hypothesis about the function of the target
behavior to be reduced should be created. It should focus on increasing desirable
behavior, and replacing inappropriate behaviors.
Behavior/Academic monitoring. Closely monitoring behavior and academic progress
(e.g., PASS, SST, and feedback sessions for the student).
In-school suspension/class suspension. In-school or class suspension should be provided
and include academic tutoring, instruction on skill-building related to the student
behavior problem (e.g., social skills), and a clearly defined procedure for returning to
class contingent on student progress or behavior.
Problem solving/contracting. Negotiation and problem-solving approaches are used to
assist students in identifying alternative behavior choices. Students may be put on
contract that reiterates to the student to engage in a problem-solving process, and which
includes support for success and consequences for continuing problem behaviors.

MAINTAINING SCHOOL CULTURAL

Freshman Orientation. Mini-courses or breakout sessions are presented during freshman

orientation and other specific times during the school year. The school provides short
courses or breakout sessions that address topics related to the students inappropriate
behavior, and are designed to teach the student to have increased awareness or
knowledge about the topic, thus facilitating behavior change. These sessions include a
range of school wide expectation topics such as: alcohol/drug use or abuse, strategies for
conflict resolution, anger control strategies, social skills and appropriate communication
skills.
30

Teacher supervision. Teachers are assigned supervision once a week before school, at
snack and lunch and after school, which provides more frequent contact with students
outside the classroom. Teachers periodically monitor bathrooms and other areas on
campus that students visit. This provides an opportunity for teachers to implement
behavior-change approaches that can be formalized into a disciplinary consequence.

Parent Information Night. Before the start of school information night for all incoming
freshman and new enrollees. Topics such as school wide expectations, uniform policies
and other school procedures are discussed.

Bullying prevention and intervention. An all school assembly that focuses on bullying
prevention, recognition, and intervention. (e.g. the DrIven show).

Campus Upkeep. Janitorial staff maintains the school appearance throughout the year
and every summer (e.g. Painting, waxing, cleaning, and other routine maintenance).

31

CODE OF CONDUCT
Classroom
Arrive on time and
be ready to work.
Be prepared with
assignments and
materials.
Take an active,
positive role in
classroom activities.
Follow and respond
appropriately to adult
directions.
Know and follow
classroom rules.
Accept positive and
negative
consequences.
Clean up your space.

Hallway
Move to class
promptly by the most
direct route.
Have pass or agenda.
Vacate the hallways.
Follow and respond
appropriately to adult
directions.

Other
Arrive on time.
Have all appropriate
materials ready.
Follow and respond
appropriately to adult
directions.

Know and follow

school rules.
Accept positive and
negative
consequences.
Use appropriate
volume and language.

Know and follow

school rules.
Accept positive and
negative
consequences.
Clean up your
space.

Integrity

Do your own work

Encourage others to
do their own work.

Respect others
personal space and
property.
Avoid being a
distraction to
classrooms along your
route.

Follow and respond

appropriately to adult
directions.
Use appropriate
language in any
communication with
others.

Dependability

Be on task
Electronic devices on
silent and put away

Effort

Turn in assignments
Focus on learning

Get to class on time

Avoid being a
distraction to
classrooms along your
route.
Get to class on time
Use bathroom
breaks between classes

Know and follow

school rules.
Follow and respond
appropriately to adult
directions.
Follow and respond
appropriately to adult
directions.
Use appropriate
language in any
communication with
others.

Prepared

Respectful

32

POLA High School

Student Behavior Management Process
Infraction Level 1
Infractions include: gum
chewing, failure to bring
supplies to class, failure to
complete assignments, talking
in class, poor work habits,
minor disturbances, not
following class rules, first 4
tardies, consuming food in
class, cell phone use.

Parent/Student
Conference
HANDLED AND
DOCUMENTED BY
TEACHER

Parent Phone Call

Other

Infraction Level 2

Infractions include: giving

false information, disrupting
school activities/peace,
using abusive language,
vulgarity, loitering, out of
class without permission

SEND TO
ASSISTANT
PRINCIPAL

Student conference and

sent back to class
Administrator determines
consequence

INFORMATION
DOCUMENTED IN
STUDENT FILE

Other

Infraction Level 3
Parent Phone Call
Infractions include:
Pervasive Level 2
misconduct and/defiance,
OTHER

SEND TO
ASSISTANT
PRINCIPAL
INFORMATION
DOCUMENTED IN
STUDENT FILE

Infraction Level 4
MAJOR INFRACTIONS
Infractions include:
Pervasive Level 3
misconduct and/defiance,
fighting, threats, OTHER

SEND TO
ASSISTANT
PRINCIPAL

INFORMATION
DOCUMENTED IN
STUDENT FILE

Parent/Student
Conference
Administrator determines
consequence and provides
teacher feedback

Parent Phone Call

Mandatory
Parent/Student
Conference
Administrator determines
consequence and provides
teacher feedback
33

DISCIPLINE POLICY
CODE OF CONDUCT
The Port of Los Angeles High School student responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

Following all rules of behavior and conduct

Respecting fellow students and school personnel and property
Attending classes regularly and on time
Completing all assigned work to the best of the students ability
Being prepared for class by bringing materials i.e. books, homework, pencils etc.
Participating in class discussions
Putting forth ones best efforts on all assessment measures (i.e. class tests,
standardized test)
Keeping the campus clean
Wearing the school uniform

Unacceptable student behavior will include, but is not limited to:

Classroom disturbance
Eating in class
Failure to follow directions
Horseplay/pushing/throwing/running/yelling
Bringing mp3 players, iPods, video games, iPads, laptops, etc.
Cheating
Inappropriate use of technology and telecommunications
Use, possession or sale of alcohol, tobacco or a controlled substance
Fighting
Possession of a knife, gun, explosive or other dangerous object
Destruction of school property
Gambling paraphernalia; such as but not limited to cards, dice, chips, etc.
Theft
Failure to follow lawful directions of staff members

Students who violate the school rules are subject, but not limited to:

Verbal warning
A notice to parents
Detention (lunch or after school)
Conference with student/parent
Loss of privileges(athletic probation, exclusion from school dances and other activities)
Suspension
Expulsion

34

ANTIBULLYING POLICY
POLAHS is committed to creating a safe, caring, respectful learning environment for all students.
Bullying of students occurring in at school is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. For
the purposes of the policy, school includes school building, school grounds, and school
sponsored social events, trips, sporting events, buses, and bus stops. Reported incidents of
bullying will be investigated promptly and thoroughly by school administration.
Definition of Bullying
Bullying is a pattern of aggressive, intentional or deliberately hostile behavior that occurs
repeatedly and over time. Bullying behavior falls into three categories: physical, emotional, and
verbal. Bullying includes, but is not limited to, intimidation, assault, extortion, oral or written
threats, teasing, putdowns, namecalling, threatening looks, gestures, or actions, starting or
spreading rumors and/or false accusations, hazing, social isolation, and cyberbullying.

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION

POLAHS strives to help students learn the skills they need to succeed in life. While romantic
feelings and the desire to express those feelings is not uncommon, appropriate boundaries are
part of our societys social norms. Romantic affection does not belong in public spaces because
it makes others uncomfortable and these are acts to be shared between two individuals privately.
Students should not subject the rest of the school community to public displays of physical
affection. Use the real world as a guideline. What would be appropriate in the office of the
average American company? If an individual has to ask whether a physical act of affection is
appropriate or not, it is best to err on the side of believing it is inappropriate. A quick hug and a
pat on the back are appropriate. Kissing, extended embraces, sitting on anothers lap, and
fondling/groping ARE NOT APPROPRIATE. If a student cannot recognize appropriate boundaries,
a POLAHS staff member has the discretion to dene an ACT as INAPPROPRIATE.
Any student who engages in repeated violations of the Port of Los Angeles High School code of
conduct will be required to attend a meeting with the schools staff and the students parent(s).
Port of Los Angeles High School will prepare a specific written remediation agreement outlining
future student conduct expectations, timelines, and consequences for failure to meet the
expectations, up to and including expulsion.

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DRUGS, ALCOHOL, TOBACCO

Alcohol, tobacco, and nicotine products (such as cigarettes, chew, or other related products) and
any other controlled substance are prohibited. Students found to be in possession of, using such
products while under school jurisdiction, or arriving on school grounds or school related events,
will receive specified consequences ranging from suspension, to a recommendation for
participation in deterrent programs to expulsion. Because possession of drugs at school may also
constitute a crime, students will be reported to local law enforcement officials.
Any student found to have participated in the unlawful sale of drugs will be recommended for
expulsion and may be subject to criminal prosecution.

FIREARMS, WEAPONS AND OTHER DANGEROUS OBJECTS

POLAHS maintains a "Zero Tolerance Policy" for any type of dangerous object. Therefore, school
administrators will take immediate, appropriate action against any student found in possession
of a dangerous object. Dangerous objects include, but are not limited to, knives (including
Swiss Armystyle knives, Xacto knives, and utility knives), razor blades, martial arts combat
equipment, clubs, brass knuckles, explosives, and any type of gun including BB/Pellet guns and
replica guns. Any student who inadvertently brings an object onto campus that is prohibited
should turn it in to a teacher or Administrator immediately; doing so will in most cases avoid
disciplinary consequences. However, prohibited firearms are not to be taken to school for any
reason at any time. Pursuant to the Federal GunFree Schools Act, and in accordance with the
California Education Code, any student found in possession of a firearm shall be recommended
for expulsion. Possession includes, but is not limited to, on a students person, in a pocket of a
jacket not being currently worn, or kept in purses, backpacks, or automobiles. Students expelled
for gun possession may be prosecuted in a Court of Law.

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DETENTION
A teacher or administrator may assign detention. Detention may be held in a teachers classroom
at lunch or after school, to be determined by the teacher. Detention assigned by the Assistant
Principal may be held after school. Students must bring something to read or schoolwork to do.
Talking, sleeping, electronic devices and all other distractions are not allowed. Students who are
tardy will not be allowed to enter.

SATURDAY SCHOOL
This program is an attendance make-up alternative and is held on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00
a.m. Students must bring either schoolwork or appropriate reading material; talking is not
permitted. Students who fail to bring work or insist on talking/misbehaving will be sent home.
Credit for attendance depends upon full cooperation with the teacher.

INTENSIVE SUPERVISED STUDY (ISS)

ISS is an alternative to home suspensions. Students will be completely separated from the
remainder of the student population for an entire day and may not participate in any
extracurricular activities. The class climate will be strictly business, and student will be required to
work the entire time they are in ISS. The rules will be simple: students will do assigned work without
talking, sleeping, or leaving desks. Lunch and breaks will be controlled, supervised, and taken when
other students are in class. Failure to comply with ISS rules will result in home suspension.

37

SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION

California Education Code Section 48925 (d) defines suspension as removal of a pupil from
ongoing instruction for adjustment purposes. A student may be suspended for up to no
more than five consecutive school days.
California Education Code Section 48925 (b) defines expulsion as the removal of a pupil from
(1) the immediate supervision and control, or (2) the general supervision, of school
personnel. The length of an expulsion may be for the balance of the semester in which
the student is expelled; for the balance of the semester, plus the following school semester;
or for onecalendar year, depending on the violation and/or the students social adjustment
background.
Students are subject to suspension or expulsion for offenses occurring
While on school grounds.

While going to or coming from school.

During the lunch period, whether on or off the campus.

During, or while going to, or coming from, a school sponsored event.

GROUNDS FOR SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION

Students may be suspended or expelled for any of the following reasons:
1. Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another person
or willfully used force of violence upon the person of another, except in selfdefense.
2. Possessed, sold, or otherwise furnished any firearm, knife, explosive, or other
dangerous object unless, in the case of possession of any object of this type, the
students had obtained written permission to possess the item from a certificated
school employee, with the Principal or designees concurrence.
3. Unlawfully possessed, used, sold or otherwise furnished, or was under the influence of
any controlled substance, as defined in Health and Safety Code 1105311058, alcoholic
beverage, or intoxicant of any kind.
4. Unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any controlled substance as defined
in Health and Safety Code 1105311058, alcoholic beverage or intoxicant of any kind,
and then sold, delivered or otherwise furnished to any person another liquid substance
or material and represented same as controlled substance, alcoholic beverage or
intoxicant.
5. Committed or attempted to commit robbery or extortion.
6. Caused or attempted to cause damage to school property or private property.
7. Stole or attempted to steal school property or private property.
8. Possessed or used tobacco or any products containing tobacco or nicotine products,
including but not limited to cigars, cigarettes, miniature cigars, clove cigarettes,
smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets and betel.
38

9. Committed an obscene act or engaged in habitual profanity or vulgarity.

10. Unlawfully possessed or unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any drug
paraphernalia, as defined in Health and Safety Code 11014.5.
11. Disrupted school activities or otherwise willfully defied the valid authority of
supervisors, teachers, administrators, other school officials, or other school personnel
engaged in the performance of their duties.
12. Knowingly received stolen school property or private property.
13. Possessed an imitation firearm, i.e.: a replica of a firearm that is as substantially similar
in physical properties to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to conclude
that the replica is a firearm.
14. Committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault as defined in Penal code 261,
266c, 286, 288, 288a or 289, or committed a sexual battery as defined in Penal Code
243.4.
15. Harassed, threatened, or intimidated a student who is a complaining witness or
witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for the purpose of preventing that student
from being a witness and/or retaliating against that student for being a witness.
16. Unlawfully offered, arranged to sell, negotiated to sell, or sold the prescription drug
Soma.
17. Engaged in or attempted to engage in hazing of another student.
18. Verbally or physically harassing or threatening a staff member.
19. Aiding or abetting as defined in Section 31 of the Penal Code, the infliction or
attempted infliction of physical injury to another person.
20. Made terrorist threats against school officials and/or school property.
21. Committed sexual harassment.
22. Caused, attempted to cause, threatened to cause, or participated in an act of hate
violence.
23. Intentionally harassed, threatened or intimidated a student or group of students to the
extent of having the actual and reasonably expected effect of materially disrupting
class work, creating substantial disorder and invading student rights by creating an
intimidating or hostile educational environment.
24. Violation of the Federal Gun Free Schools Act, as defined in Section 7151 of Title 20 of
the United States Code.

39

SUSPENSION
When other procedures fail to attain satisfactory behavioral changes, or where specifically
required by the nature of the problem, a student may be excluded from school. Such exclusion
may involve (a) suspension for 5 days or less; (b) suspension pending expulsion; or (c)
counseling, upon return to the building, with the school psychologist for behavioral
intervention and/or a positive skill enhancement.
SUSPENSION PROCEDURES
Except in circumstances where the students presence poses a continuing danger to persons
or property, a pre-suspension conference will be held with the student to explain the charges
and give the student an opportunity to respond. A pre-suspension conference is not required
if the students presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or poses an
ongoing threat of disruption to the educational process. In such cases, the notice and
conference shall follow as soon as practicable.
Principal/Assistant Principal shall immediately notify the parent/guardian when a behavioral
infraction has occurred that will result in a suspension. Parent/guardian shall be informed in
writing of the reason for the suspension, including any school rule violation.

40

NOTICE TO PARENTS/GUARDIANS
At the time of the suspension, a POLAHS employee shall make a reasonable effort to contact the
parent/guardian by telephone or in person. Whenever a student is suspended, the
parent/guardian shall be notified and given specifics of the offense committed by the student.
In addition, notification will also include the date and time when the student may return to
school. If school officials wish to ask the parent/guardian to confer regarding matters pertinent
to the suspension, the notice may request that the parent/guardian respond without delay.
At the conference, the pupil shall be informed of the reason for the disciplinary action and the
evidence against him or her. The student shall be given the opportunity to present his or her
version and evidence in his or her defense.
The conference may be omitted if the POLAHS Principal or designee determines that an
emergency situation exists. An emergency situation involves a clear and present danger to the
lives, safety, or health of students or school personnel. If a student is suspended without
this conference, both the parent/guardian and student shall be notified of the students right to
return to school for the purpose of a conference.
No penalties may be imposed on a pupil for failure of the pupils parent or guardian to attend a
conference with school officials. Reinstatement of the suspended pupil shall not be contingent
upon attendance by the pupils parent or guardian at the conference. However, parent contact
must be made before the student is allowed to return to class following a suspension.

41

EXPULSION
EXPULSION PROCEDURE
If the Principal or Assistant Principal makes a determination that a students behavior or conduct
warrants expulsion, the students parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be provided written notice of the
time, place, and purpose of an Expulsion Hearing (the Hearing) by registered or certified mail.
The Hearing will be held within thirty (30) days of the notice of the expulsion hearing. A
students parent(s)/guardian(s) may request to postpone the Hearing an additional thirty (30)
days by providing written notice to the Assistant Principal within twenty (20) calendar days of
the date of the notice of the Hearing.
The notice shall request the appearance of the parent(s)/guardian(s) and the student at the
Hearing and shall inform the parent(s)/guardian(s) of their right to:
1. Appear in person at the hearing and to be presented by counsel or a non-attorney
advisor at the hearing.
2. Inspect and obtain copies of all documents in the parents/guardians primary language
to be used at the hearing.
3. Confront and question all witnesses who testify at the hearing.
4. Question all evidence presented at the hearing and present oral and documentary
evidence, including witnesses, on the students behalf at the hearing.
5. Have an interpreter present.
The Hearing shall be presided over by a disciplinary panel composed of no less than three (3) and
no more than five (5) members chosen by the Principal or Assistant Principal.
At the Hearing, the disciplinary panel shall hear evidence of whether the student has committed
the offense or engaged in the behavior giving rise to the Hearing. After presentation of the
evidence and deliberation, the disciplinary panel shall take action as it finds appropriate, up to
and including expulsion and an appropriate rehabilitation plan. The decision of the disciplinary
panel is final and there is no right to appeal the decision.
The hearing shall be closed to the public unless the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student request
a public hearing.
A student may be expelled by the disciplinary panel from school for up to one calendar year for
gross disobedience or misconduct.
EXPELLED PUPILS/ ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION
Expulsion, for purposes of this policy, is defined as disenrollment from POLAHS. Pupils who are
expelled shall be responsible for seeking alternative education programs including, but not
limited to, programs within their school district of residence. POLAHS may from time to
time enter into agreements with its authorizing school district and/or other
appropriate entities to make placement options available to students. Placement at
a County School may be required by the home school, and POLAHS will assist with initiating
this process.
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REPORTING STUDENT OFFENSES TO LAW ENFORCEMENT

Consistent with Education Code Section 48902, excluding the penalty provisions of that statute,
the POLAHS Principal or designee shall report pupil offenses as specified therein to law
enforcement authorities.
DISCIPLINARY RECORDS
POLAHS shall maintain records of all suspensions and expulsions of POLAHS pupils. Such records
shall be made available for review upon request.
REHABILITATION/READMISSION
Following a meeting with the Principal or designee, the pupil, and the guardian or
representative, the Principal shall determine if the pupil has met the conditions of
rehabilitation or if the pupil continues to pose a danger to campus safety or to other pupils
or employees of POLAHS. (Education Code Section 48916(c)) Also, the PRINCIPAL or designee
may make a decision regarding the pupils readmission contingent upon POLAHS capacity at
the time the student seeks readmission.

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TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING

SKATEBOARDS SCOOTERS AND BIKES
Students may ride a skateboard, scooter, or bike to school. Upon arriving on campus, students
must store their skateboard, scooter, and/or bike in designated storage areas. These items may
not be retrieved until the end of the school day. Students may not ride their skateboard, scooter,
or bike on school property. Skateboards, scooters, and bikes rode during the school day will be
confiscated. Only the parent/guardian may retrieve the confiscated item. POLAHS is not
responsible for any loss of equipment.

DRIVING AND PARKING

POLAHS is unable to provide on-campus parking for students who drive to school. However, there
is limited street parking in the neighborhood adjacent to the campus. Students who wish to park
close to campus should plan to arrive early.
Students who choose to ride motorcycles to go to school are not allowed to park in the staff
parking garage unless theyve received permission from the Principal or Assistant Principal first.

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Port of Los Angeles High School

ACADEMIC AND STAFF CALENDAR 2016 2017
ACADEMIC
First Day of Fall Semester
Last Day of Fall Semester
First Day of Spring Semester
Last Day of Spring Semester

Thursday, August 11, 2016

Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Friday, June 9, 2017

Labor Day
Pupil Free Day
Veterans Day
Thanksgiving Holiday
Winter Recess
Martin Luther King Day
Presidents Day
Pupil Free Day
Spring Break
Cesar Chavez Day (Observed)
Memorial Day
Last Day of Instruction

Monday, September 5, 2016

Monday, October 10, 2016
Friday, November 11, 2016
Thursday & Friday, November 24 & 25, 2016
December 22, 2016 January 13, 2017
Monday, January 16, 2017
Monday, February 20, 2017
Monday, March 13, 2017
March 27 March 31, 2017
Monday, April 3, 2017
Monday, May 29, 2017
Friday, June 9, 2017

INSTRUCTIONAL DAYS PER MONTH

FALL SEMESTER
August
15
September
21
October
20
November
19
December
15

TOTAL SEMESTER
Total Instructional Days
Total Staff Days

90
185
187

SPRING SEMESTER
January
February
March
April
May
June

11
19
17
19
22
7

95

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46

POLAHS Bell Schedule

Block Schedule

Period

8:00 10:00

Period 1/4

10:00 10:15

Snack

10:20 12:25

Period 2/5

12:25 1:00
1:05 3:05

Lunch
Period 3/6

Monday Schedule

Period

8:30 9:25
9:30 10:25

Period 1
Period 2

10:25 10:40

Snack

10:45 11:40

Period 3

11:45 12:40

Period 4

12:40 1:15
1:20 2:10

Lunch
Period 5

2:15 3:05

Period 6

Modified Monday Schedule

Period

8:30 10:20
10:20 10:35

Period 1/4
Snack

10:40 12:35

Period 2/5

12:35 1:10

Lunch

1:15 3:05

Period 3/6

Exam Schedule
8:00 9:50

Exam
First Exam

9:50 10:05
10:10 12:00

Snack
Second Exam

Minimum Day Schedule

Period

8:00 9:10
9:15 10:25

Period 1/4
Period 2/5

10:25 10:45
10:50 12:00

Snack
Period 3/6

Tuesday & Thursday are Periods 1, 2, & 3

Wednesday & Friday are Periods 4, 5, & 6

47

PARENTS RIGHT-TO-KNOW

Your child is attending a school receiving Title I federal funds through the No Child Left Behind
Act (in English, is referred to as NCLB). The Federal law requires that parents be notified of their
right to know the professional qualifications of their childs teacher(s) in core academic subject
areas, including the following:
1. The type of state credential or license that the teacher holds. Some teachers will have a
credential in a particular subject area, such as English or Mathematics, and others will
have a multiple subject credential, which allows them to teach a variety of subjects,
such as in elementary schools.
2. The education level and subject area of the teachers college degree(s). All teachers
have a Bachelors degree beyond the bachelors, such as a masters or doctoral degree.
In addition to the qualifications of the teacher, if a paraprofessional (teachers aide) provides
your child services, you may also request information about his or her qualifications. Many
paraprofessionals have two years of college and others have passed a test that verifies their
qualifications.

Su hijo/ a asiste a una escuela que recibe fondos federales de Ttulo I, segn establece la Ley
Que Ningn Nio se Quede (que se conoce en Ingls con las siglas NCLB). Esta ley federal
estipula que se notifique a los padres su requiere que los padres sean notificados de su
derecho a conocer las cualificaciones profesionales del maestro o maestros de su hijos/a en las
materias acadmicas bsicas, incluyendo las siguientes:
1. El tipo de credencial o licencia que tiene el maestro. Algunos maestros tienen una
credencial en una materia particular, como Ingls o Matemticas, y otros tienen una
credencial para materias mltiples, lo cual les permite impartir la enseanza de varias
materias, tal como sucede en las escuelas primarias.
2. El nivel educativo y la materia del diploma o diplomas universitarios del maestro. Todos
los maestros tienen una licenciatura y muchos de ellos tienen diplomas separados como
maestra o doctorado, adems de la licenciatura.
Adems de las calificaciones del maestro, si un maestro de apoy (ayudante del maestro)
presta servicios a su hijo/a, ustedes tambin pueden solicitar informacin sobre sus
cualificaciones profesionales. Muchos maestros de apoy tienen dos aos de estudios
universitarios, y otros han aprobado un examen que acredita sus cualificaciones.

48

Parent/Guardian Name Printed

Parent/Guardian Signature

Student Name Printed

Student Signatur