Currently there are 116 students in grades pre-kindergarten (3 years old and 4 years old) through 12th. Our average class size is 8 student per grade level. (back to top)

MISSION STATEMENT

We believe that youngsters constitute an important resource in our total society and that as individuals they deserve, in a democracy, a full opportunity to develop their capacities. The Higgins ISD is committed to an educational program that recognizes the unique value, needs and talents of these students. We will provide a flexible and varied program of experiences which will allow the student to develop, achieve, produce to their fullest potential and make increased contributions within the community, state and nation. (back to top)

PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT

“We expect great things of our students.”

In Higgins ISD, it is our mission to help each of our students:
1. achieve his or her fullest academic, physical, cultural, social, emotional and ethical potential.
2. live successfully in a constantly changing world.
3. acquire essential academic skills and the knowledge base needed to be productive citizens
4. think critically, independently and creatively, and communicate effectively.

In order to accomplish our mission, we pledge to:
1. teach a solid core curriculum to each student.
2. provide experiences that capitalize on each student’s unique talents, interests and abilities.
3. gear our instruction to meet the needs of every student.
4. provide instruction at the highest level of quality.
5. distribute educational opportunity equitably among all students.
6. maintain accountability for the continuous progress of every student.

We believe that if we follow our mission as described above, we will be able to prepare our children for the changes and challenges of the future. . . a future that will be bright for the educated.

Higgins ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, or disability in providing education or providing access to benefits of education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. (back to top)

ADMISSION

A student (or the student’s parent) who wants to enroll in the District should contact the Superintendent at (806) 852-2171 or Mrs. Slavin at (806) 852-2631. (back to top)

CAFETERIA SERVICES

The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers free and reduced-price meals based on a student’s financial need. Information can be obtained from Mrs. Smith. Letters to parents, along with application forms and guidelines, are distributed at the beginning of each school year.

The school cafeteria will be open from 7:45 AM till 8:15 AM for breakfast.

Adult Breakfast $1.00
Adult Lunch $2.00
Student Breakfast $ .50
Student Lunch $1.00 (back to top)

CLASS RANKING

In the determination of the annual valedictorian and salutatorian and class rankings, a weighted grade system shall be used. Valedictorian and salutatorian candidates shall be selected on overall grade point averages with no requirements as to class selection or kind of diploma. Students shall be rewarded for the selection of more difficult courses by receiving more grade points.
The following classes have been designated advance classes subject to the grade point weight ranking of 4.0 to 5.0:
Precalculus, Physics, Chemistry, Spanish I , Spanish II and Frank Phillips College Concurrent Education Classes
Students who are ranked in the top ten percent of their graduating class are eligible for a period of two school years following their graduation for automatic admission into Texas general academic universities and colleges. Students and parents should see Mrs. Appel of further information about how to apply and the deadline for application. (back to top)

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Student clubs and performing groups such as the Pep Club, FFA, National Honor Society, Drama Club, Cheerleading, and athletic teams may establish codes of conduct--and consequences for misbehavior--that are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the school will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization.
The Higgins School feels that membership in group organizations can provide many beneficial experiences for the student. Class and club organizations promote a better understanding of group work, help students acquire a knowledge of parliamentary procedure, give practical experience in group activities and help students learn to achieve common goals by working together with others. All class and club organizations are sponsored by qualified teachers, who help provide guidance and leadership to the group. The following are organizations within the Higgins School:

ORGANIZATION SPONSOR
Annual Staff - Jody Wiederstein
J.H. Cheerleader/Pep Club - Tracy Pipins
H.S. Cheerleader/ Pep Club - Angela Hamaker
Future Farmers of America - Kelly Jones
National Honor Society and Drama Club - Paula Meller
Sixth Grade - Kristy Waite
Seventh Grade - Greg Clayton
Eighth Grade - Mike Hendrickson
Ninth Grade - ShanTil Hext
Tenth Grade - Jody Wiederstein & Marlene Rutledge
Eleventh Grade - Judy Rader & Joanne Booker
Twelfth Grade - Hope Appel & Paula Meller(back to top)

COMPUTER ACCESS - ACCEPTABLE USE AND CODE OF CONDUCT

Only students who have been authorized by the District and who are under direct supervision of designated District employees are permitted to use a District computer or to access any local network or outside telecommunications services such as the Internet. Prior to such authorization, the student and the student’s parent must sign and return the District Acceptable Use Form acknowledging their responsibilities and the consequences of violation. (back to top)

CREDIT BY EXAM/EXAM FOR ACCELERATION

A student in any grade (1-12) may use examinations in lieu of course work for acceleration to advance one grade level or to earn credit in an academic subject.
Questions regarding these examinations and procedures for acceleration may be discussed with Mrs. Appel. (back to top)

DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIAL

All aspects of school-sponsored newspapers and/or yearbooks are completely under the supervision of the teacher and administrator.
Written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, or other visual or auditory materials may not be sold, circulated, or distributed on any school campus by a student or a non student without the approval of the administration and in accordance with campus regulations.
All material intended for distribution to students that is not under the District’s editorial control must be submitted to the principal for review and approval. If the material is not approved within 24 hours of the time it was submitted, it must be considered disapproved. Disapprovals may be appealed by submitting the disapproved material to the Superintendent; material not approved by the Superintendent within three days is considered disapproved. This disapproval may be appealed to the Board at its next regular meeting when the student will have a reasonable period of time to present his or her viewpoint. (back to top)

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING INFORMATION

If a decision is made not to have school because of bad weather or some other emergency, it will be announced on K101 (Woodward) and run on TV channels 4, 7 and 10 (Amarillo). A telephone network has been set up so that everyone should be notified within 15 minutes if a decision is made not to have school. (back to top)

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

A student will be permitted to participate in extracurricular activities subject to the following restrictions:
*A student who receives, at the end of any grade evaluation period, an average grade below 70 in any academic class other than an identified honors or advanced class, or a student with disabilities who fails to meet the standards in the Individual Education Plan (IEP) may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least one school week. A student may practice or rehearse while suspended. The student regains eligibility when the superintendent or teachers determine that he or she has: 1) earned a passing grade (70 or above) in all academics classes other than those that are honors or advanced; and 2) completed three weeks of suspension.
*A student is allowed up to 15 absences from a class during the school year for extracurricular activities or public performances. All UIL activities and activities approved by the District are subject to these restrictions.
*Any disciplinary behavior-related restrictions on participation are set out in the Student Code of Conduct.
A student who misses class because of participation in an activity sponsored by a non approved organization will receive an unexcused absence.
If a student who participates in extracurricular activities is absent on the day of an activity due to medical or dental reasons, that student will be able to participate in the scheduled event. However, a released form must be signed the student’s parent/guardian allowing the student to participate in the extracurricular activity. Any other type of absenteeism and eligibility of a student to participate in extracurricular activities will be at the discretion of the administration.
Student clubs and performing groups such as Beta Club Cheerleaders, One-Act Play and athletic teams may establish standards of behavior--including consequences for misbehavior--that are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the Student Code of Conduct or by local policy will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization. (back to top)

GRADE CLASSIFICATION

After the ninth grade, students are classified according to the number of units earned toward graduation.
Units of Credit Earned Grade Placement
5 --10(Sophomore)
10 --11(Junior)
15 --12 (Senior)

The following grade scale is used at the Higgins School:
90 -100 = A S- Satisfactory
80 - 89 = B U- Unsatisfactory
75 - 79 = C I - Incomplete
70 - 74 = D
0 - 69 = F
Reports of student progress are sent home each six weeks. In addition, deficiency reports are sent to the home at the midpoint of each six week period if a student is not doing satisfactory work in school. Parents are encouraged to make an appointment to visit with their child’s teacher any time there is a question concerning a grade. (back to top)

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

To receive a high school diploma from the District, a student must successfully complete the required number of credits and pass a statewide exit-level examination in reading, writing and mathematics.
Currently, a student must complete at least 22 credits to receive a minimum high school program diploma. These include:

Language Arts(4 credits) Mathematics(3 credits) Science(2 credits) Social Studies(2 1/2 credits) Economics(1/2 credits) Physical Ed.(1 1/2 credits)
Health Education(1/2 credit) Speech(1/2 credit) Tech. Applications(1 credit) *Electives(6 1/2 credits)
*(One elective must be World History, World Geography or science)

A student in the recommended program is required to complete 24 credits, including:

Language Arts(4 credits) Mathematics(3 credits) Science(3 credits) Social Studies(3 1/2 credits) Economics(1/2 credit) Physical Ed.(1 1/2 credits)
Health Ed.(1/2 credit) Other language(2 credits) Fine arts(1 credit) Technology Applications(1 credit) Speech(1/2 credit) *Electives(3 1/2 credits)
*(1 Precalculus, 1 Advanced Science and 1 1/2 electives)

The Texas state graduation programs are minimum program, recommended, and distinguished achievement.
Students in grade 7-12 need to be aware that the following courses are recommended for students preparing to attend college:
English I - IV, Algebra I - II, Geometry, Precalculus, Foreign Language I - II, Biology I, Chemistry, Physics, World History, World Geography, United States History, Government/Economics, Computer Applications and at least a semester of fine arts.
See Mrs. Appelor Mr. Whipkey for information regarding graduation programs.
Upon the recommendation of the ARD committee, a student receiving special education services may be permitted to graduate under the provisions of his or her IEP. (back to top)

NEW TESTING REQUIREMENTS

Testing requirement for graduation. Beginning in 2003, the testing requirements for graduation will increase and the exit-level test will be designed for the 11th grade. Unlike the current exit-level tests administered in the 10th grade in reading, writing, and mathematics, the new grade 11 tests will assess English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, and require knowledge of Algebra I and Geometry, Biology and integrated Chemistry and Physics, English III, and early American and United States History. The class of 2005 (students who are 9th graders in 2001-02) will be the first class required to pass the new Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills in order to graduate. The first testing opportunity on the new exit-level assessments for these students will be in the spring semester of the 2003-04 school year, when they will be in 11th grade. (back to top)

IMMUNIZATION

A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or statement that, for medical or religious reasons, the student will not be immunized. The immunizations required are: diphtheria, rubeola (measles), rubella, mumps, tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae type B, polio myelitis, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and varicella (chicken pox). The school can provide information on age-appropriate doses or on an acceptable physician-validated history of illness required by the Texas Department of Health. Proof of immunization may be personal records from a licensed physician or public health clinic with a signature or rubber-stamp validation.
If a student’s religious beliefs conflict with the requirement that the student be immunized, the student must present a statement signed by the student (or by the parent, if the student is a minor) stating that immunization conflicts with the beliefs and practices of a recognized church or religious denomination of which the student is an adherent or member. This statement must be renewed yearly.
If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a certificate signed by a U.S. licensed physician stating that, in the doctor’s opinion, the immunization required would be harmful to the health and well-being of the student or any member of the student’s family or household. This certificate must be renewed yearly unless the physician specifies a life-long condition. (back to top)

MEDICINE AT SCHOOL

A student who must take prescription (or non prescription) medicine during the school day must bring a written request from his or her parent and the medicine, in its properly labeled container, to Mrs. Slavin. Mrs. Slavin will either give the medicine at the proper times or give the student permission to take the medication as directed. (back to top)

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Education succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school, a partnership that thrives on communication and interaction, and includes parents, teachers, administrators, and the Board of Trustees. Every parent is urged to:
Encourage his or her child to put a high priority on education and commit to making the most of the educational opportunities the school provides.
Review the information in the student handbook (including the Student Code of Conduct) with his or her child and sign and return the acknowledgment form(s) and the Directory Information notice.
Become familiar with all of the child’s school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs, offered in the District. Discuss with the counselor or principal any questions, such as concerns about placement, assignment, or early graduation, and the options available to the child. Monitor the child’s academic progress and contact teachers as needed.
Attend scheduled conferences and request additional conferences as needed. To schedule a telephone or in-person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the school office for an appointment. A teacher will usually arrange to return the call or meet with the parent during his or her conference period or at a mutually convenient time before or after school.
Exercise the right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other aids, and to examine tests that have been administered to his or her child.
Review the child’s student records when needed. A parent may review (1) attendance records, (2) test scores, (3) grades, (4) disciplinary records, (5) counseling records, (6) psychological records, (7) applications for admission, (8) health and immunization information, (9) other medical records, (10) teacher or counselor evaluations, (11) reports of behavioral patterns, and (12) state assessment instruments that have been administered to his or her child.
Grant or deny any written request from the District to make a videotape or voice recording of the child unless the videotape or voice recording (1) is to be used for school safety; (2) relates to classroom instruction or a cocurricular or extracurricular activity; or (3) relates to media coverage of the school as permitted by law.
Temporarily remove the child from the classroom, if an instructional activity in which the child is scheduled to participate conflicts with the parent’s religious or moral beliefs. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester. Further, the child must satisfy grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the school and by the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
Participate in campus parent organizations. The activities are varied ranging from the Booster Club to District Planning Committees that assist the Board of Trustees in formulation goals and objectives for the District. (back to top)

PARTIES AND SOCIAL EVENTS

The rules of good conduct and grooming will be observed at school social events held outside the regular school day. Guests are expected to observe the same rules as students attending the event, and the person inviting the guest will share responsibility for the conduct of the guest. A student attending a party or social event may be asked to sign out when leaving before the end of the party; anyone leaving before the official end of the party will not be readmitted.
Organizations are permitted only one party each semester. Sponsors will request and supervise these parties.
Parties must be scheduled at least one week in advance. NO PARTIES will be scheduled the two weeks prior to the close of each semester nor during the week of six weeks test. Time and activities of school parties shall be at the discretion of the sponsor. (back to top)

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS

Physical examinations are required for participation in athletics. (back to top)

POSTERS

Signs and posters that a student wishes to display must first be approved by the administration. Posters displayed without authorization will be removed. Any student who posts printed material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action. (back to top)

PRAYER

The school recognizes a student’s right to individually, voluntarily, and pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt the instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not require, encourage, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity. (back to top)

PROMOTION, RETENTION, AND PLACEMENT

A student is promoted from one grade to the next on the basis of academic achievement. To be promoted from one grade level to the next in grades K-5, a student shall attain for the year an overall average of 70 or above which is arrived by averaging the final numerical grade for English language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, health, fine arts and physical education. In addition, a student shall attain an average of 70 or above in English language arts and mathematics.
A middle school (or junior high) student must have an overall average of 70 or above, as well as an average of 70 or above in at least three of the following subjects: language arts (including reading improvement if required), mathematics, social studies, and science. If a student’s grade average in any subject or course is “borderline” or below 70 at the end of the first three weeks of any grading period, the student’s parents will be notified.
A student in grades 6-8 who is not promoted will be retained in the same grade or placed in an alternative education program. No student will be retained more than once in grades 5-8 unless a committee of the student’s teachers and two administrators approve and the parents agree because of special circumstances.
In grades 9-12, to receive credit for a course, a student must maintain an average of 70 or above. Districts may award credit semester by semester for a full year (1 unit) course.
High School students who fail a required class will have to take the class over again. If scheduling permits, the class will be given the student at a future time. If this is not possible, it will be necessary for the student to arrange for a correspondence course at his or her own expense. Arrangements should be made through the principal’s office.

STUDENT SUCCESS INITIATIVE - 2003 will be the first year of implementation of the Student Success Initiative (SSI). Students in grade 3 that year must pass the state assessment in reading to be promoted without the consultation of a grade placement committee. Beginning in 2005, students in grade 5 must pass the state assessments in reading and mathematics to be promoted; beginning in 2008, students in grade 8 must pass the state assessments in reading and mathematics to be promoted. Students who do not perform satisfactorily will have opportunities to participate in special instructional programs designed to help them improve their performance. (back to top)

PROTECTION OF STUDENT RIGHTS

The school will notify parents of the right to inspect all instructional materials to be used in connection with a survey, analysis, or evaluation as part of a federally funded program. Notice will be sent home before such a survey, analysis, or evaluation is administered, and parent consent (or student consent if 18 or older) will be requested if information regarding any of the following is part of the survey, analysis, or evaluation:
* Political affiliations
* Mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the student or family.
* Sex behavior and attitudes
* Illegal, anti-social, self incriminating, and demeaning behavior.
* Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom the student or the student’s family has close family relationship
* Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as lawyers, physicians, and ministers.
* Income, other than as required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program. (back to top)

RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL

A student will not be released from school at times other than regular dismissal hours without the knowledge and consent of their parent or guardian.
Students shall not leave school until (1) parent permission has been granted, (2) Mrs. Appel or Mr. Whipkey has been notified and (3) student has signed the sign out sheet in the principal’s office. (back to top)

REPORT CARDS

Written reports of student grades and absences are issued to parents at least once every six weeks. At the end of the first three weeks of a grading period, parents are notified if the student’s grade average is near or below 70 or below the expected level of performance. If a student receives a six-week grade of less than 70 in any class or subject, the parents are requested to schedule a conference with the teacher of that class or subject. The report card will state whether tutorials are recommended for a student who receives a grade below 70 in a class or subject. (back to top)

SAFETY/ACCIDENT INSURANCE

Student safety on campus or at school-related events is a high priority of the District. With safety in mind, the District has implemented policies and committed resources. However, the District can address only part of the challenge; the essential remaining part is the cooperation of students, including:
* Avoiding conduct that is likely to put the students at risk.
* Following the code of conduct and any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the administration or teachers.
* Remaining alert to and promptly reporting safety hazards, such as intruders on campus.
* Knowing emergency evacuation routes and signals.
* Following immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other district employees who are seeing to the welfare of students.
The District is not responsible for medical costs associated with a student’s injury. The District does provide accident insurance for all students K-12, which covers accidental injuries while at school or on a school sponsored activity during the regular school year. Additional accident insurance may be purchased which covers a student 24 hours a day year-round. (back to top)

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

The District provides special programs for gifted and talented students, bilingual students, dyslexic students, and for those with disabilities. A student or parent with questions about these programs should contact the Superintendent; the coordinator of each program can answer questions about eligibility requirements and programs and services offered in the District or by other organizations. (back to top)

STUDENT RECORDS

A student’s school records are confidential and are protected from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record is maintained for each student from the time the student enters the District until the student withdraws or graduates. This record moves with the student from school to school.
By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is under 18 or a dependent for tax purposes. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights.
The administration is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The Superintendent is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated. Records may be reviewed during regular school hours upon completion of the written request form. The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretations of the records.
Parents of a minor or of a student who is a dependent for tax purposes, the student (if 18 or older), and school officials with legitimate educational interests are the only persons who have general access to a student’s records. “School officials with legitimate educational interests” include any employees, agents or Trustees of the District, of cooperatives of which the District is a member, or facilities with which the District contracts for the placement of students with disabilities, as well as their attorneys and consultants, who are:
1. Working with the student;
2. Considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, and IEP for a student with disabilities under IDEA or an individually designed program for a student with disabilities under Section 504;
3. Compiling statistical data; or
4. Investigating or evaluating programs.
Certain officials from various governmental agencies may have limited access to the records. The District forwards a student’s records on request and without prior parental consent to a school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. Parental consent is required to release the record to anyone else. When the student reaches 18 years of age, only the student has the right to consent to release of records.
The parent’s or student’s right of access to, and copies of, student records does not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records, such as teachers’ personal notes on a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher, records pertaining to former students after they are no longer students in the District, and records maintained by school law enforcement officials for purposes other than school discipline do not have to be made available to the parents or student.
A student over 18 and parents of minor students may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights. If the District refuses the request to amend the records, the requester has the right to a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the requester has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, parents and the student are not allowed to contest a student’s grade in a course through this process. Parents or the student have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the District is not in compliance with the law regarding student records.
Copies of student records are available at a cost of $.10 per page, payable in advance. Parents may be denied copies of a student’s records (1) after the student reaches age 18 and is no longer a dependent for tax purposes; (2) when the student is attending an institution of post-secondary education; (3) if the parent fails to follow proper procedures and pay the copying charge; or (4) when the District is given a copy of a court order terminating the parental rights. If the student qualifies for free or reduced-price meals and the parents are unable to view the records during regular school hours, upon request of the parent, one copy of the record will be provided at no charge.
Certain information about District students is considered directory information and will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it, unless the parent objects to the release of any or all directory in formation about the child. This objection must be made in writing to the administration within 10 school days after the issue of this handbook. Directory information includes: a student’s name, address, telephone number,date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, awards received in school, and most recent previous school attended.
Special Education Records
Parents of a student with disabilities who has been provided special education services by the District will be notified when any information that specifically identifies the student is no longer needed. If the parent request destruction of the information and the time established by law for retention has not expired, the material will be deleted from the records but the records will be maintained until the time has expired. (back to top)

TESTING

In addition to routine testing and other measures of achievement, students at certain grade levels will take state assessment test:
* Reading and mathematics: Each year in grades 3 through 8
* Writing: Grade 4 and grade 8
* Social studies and science: Grade 8
* TAKS Exit Level: Reading, Writing, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies
Test results will be reported to students and parents.
Certain students, such as students with disabilities and students with limited English proficiency, are eligible for exemptions, accommodations, or a deferment. For more information, see the counselor or special education director.
Effective with the 1998-99 school year, a reading diagnostic program, including administration of reading instruments in kindergarten, first, and second grade, must be implemented, as required by HB 107
Credit by Esamination - A student will be permitted to take an examination to earn credit for an academic course for which the student has no prior instruction. Test will be offered once each semester, free of charge to the student. The passing score required to earn credit on an examination for acceleration is 90.
If you plan to take an examination for acceleration, you (or your parent) must register with the principal no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled testing date.
College Entrance Exams - Most colleges require either the American College Test (ACT) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) for admission. Students are encouraged to talk with the counselor during their junior year to determine the appropriate exam to take; entrance exams are usually taken at the end of the junior year. Prior to enrollment in a Texas public college or university, students must take the Texas Academic Skill Program (TASP) test. (back to top)

TUTORIALS

Tutorial services are no longer required by the Texas Compulsory Attendance Law. Tutorial service will be provided for students who are failing or near failing. Tutorial services and scheduling arrangements should be made by the parent or student with the teacher of the class the student is failing or near failing. (back to top)

VEHICLES ON CAMPUS

Vehicles parked on school property are under the jurisdiction of the school. The school reserves the right to search any vehicle if reasonable cause exists to do so. A student has full responsibility for the security of his or her vehicle and must make certain it is locked and that the keys are not given to others. A student will be held responsible for any prohibited objects or substances, such as alcohol, drugs, or weapons that are found in his or her car and will be subject to disciplinary action by the District, as well as referral for criminal prosecution. Searches of vehicles may be conducted any time there is reasonable cause to do so, with or without the presence of the student.
It is extremely important that all those driving on or around the school campus exercise great caution at all times. Students who fail to operate their vehicles in a safe and proper manner will be subject to disciplinary action including, but not limited to, loss of the privilege of bringing their cars to school. (back to top)

VISITORS

Parents and other visitors are welcome to visit District schools. All visitors must first report to the principal’s office. Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time are permitted only with approval of the administration and teacher, and such visits are not permitted if their duration or frequency interferes with the delivery of instruction or disrupts the normal school environment. (back to top)

HIGGINS AG FARM

PURPOSE OF THE SCHOOL FARM:
1. A laboratory where material taught in the classroom can be actually applied by doing.
2. Provides an area for students to keep livestock they own and practice up-to-date management techniques
3. To provide an opportunity for students to develop responsibilities from experiences so each student can be better prepared to make decisions later in life.
4. To learn to work together as a team-respecting the rights of their fellow man and learn to care for the property that belongs to someone else.

GENERAL RULES:
1. All animals must be properly fed and cared for at the school farm, or they will be automatically removed.
2. Any student or parent using unethical practices or conduct in any manner at the farm will automatically be removed of all rights to school farm facilities.
3. All students driving vehicles must obey 15 miles per hour speed limit at the farm. No spinning or digging of tires.
4. Work days will be announced from time to time as necessary to maintain the school farm.
5. All students must keep pens and area clean or they will have to remove livestock from the farm.
6. Any student or parent participating without previous arrangements will forfeit rights to keep animals at the school farm.
7. The school will not be obligated to furnish any equipment. Equipment at the school farm maybe used by the students at the discretion of the Ag. Science teacher. Equipment must be cared for in every manner possible.
8. No equipment will be removed from the school farm without permission from the Ag. Science teacher. Equipment will be returned in good condition as soon as the reason for borrowing the equipment is accomplished, or at the request of the Ag. Science teacher.

LIVESTOCK KEPT AT THE SCHOOL FARM:
1. Must be owned by student or leased under suitable arrangement with Ag. Science teacher.
2. Chapter may own or keep animals at school farm with arrangements made by Ag. Science teacher.
3. All animals moved in and out of the farm must be cleared through the Ag. Science teacher.
4. Animals will be assigned pens or space according to the available pens or space.
5. Number of pigs, show steers, breeding cattle, or show lambs and breeding sheep that each student may keep at the school farm will be determined by the available space, equipment, and facilities. Each student will be assigned one pen per species if available.
6. High School FFA students will be assigned pen space first. Then any additional space may be assigned by the Ag. Science teacher to Jr. FFA members or 4-H members.

RULES GOVERNING THE USE OF BARNS AT THE SCHOOL FARM:
1. The barns may be used to store feed for livestock kept at the school farm. Also the student may keep equipment and supplies to be used in their project work in the barns. This equipment and supplies including the feed should be kept neat and clean.
2. All school owned equipment is to be kept in a designated place in the barns. None is to be removed without the permission of the Ag. Science teacher.

PENS AND HOUSES:
1. Pens are assigned by the Ag. Science teacher.
2. All pens will be divided equally in an organized manner. (back to top)