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Freedom High School Student Handbook2023-24Front cover by: Anuska Dahal

TABLE OF CONTENTSThe purpose of this Student Handbook is to act as a resource for students and parents. Thecontents of this handbook are subject to change.INTRODUCTION TO FREEDOM HIGH SCHOOLPortrait of a GraduateOur Mission StatementOur Guiding PrinciplesLCPS Commitment to EquityPrincipal’s MessageSCA Message, SCA Officers, and Class OfficersCONTACT NUMBERS AND SCHOOL PERSONNELMain Contact NumbersSchool PersonnelCALENDARS AND SCHEDULESCalender of School Events 2023-24Religious Holiday 2023-24School TimingsFreedom High School Bell Schedule for First Four DaysFreedom High School Regular Bell Schedules 2023-242023-24 Lunch ScheduleCOUNSELING DEPARTMENTFreedom High School Counseling Mission and VisionCounseling Department ContactsCommunication Procedure for Students, Teachers, Parents/Guardians and CounselorHow do Students Request to see a CounselorRestorative PracticeFHS Career CenterATHLETICSContactsVirginia High School LeagueSCHOOL HEALTH OFFICE AND INFORMATIONParent/Guardian Contact InformationMedicationPrescription MedicationNon-Prescription MedicationExtended Day Field Trip MedicationOvernight or International Field Trip MedicationReturn to School after Surgery or Emergency Room VisitRequired VaccinationsLIBRARYLibrary Contacts and Hours1

The Library and Study HallACADEMIC GRADINGAssessments and GradingFormative AssessmentSummative AssessmentReassessmentLate WorkFloor GradeLCPS Grading ScaleHonor SocietiesSTUDENT ACADEMIC RECOGNITIONAcademic LetterActivity LettersACADEMIC HONOR CODEHonor Code CriteriaConsequences for Honor Code ViolationsSTUDENT SUPPORTSACADEMIC SUPPORTSAcademic Support CenterAfter-School Academic SupportCredit RecoveryStudy HallSOCIAL-EMOTIONAL SUPPORTPositive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS) CommitteeUnified Mental Health Team (UMHT)AdvisoryClubs and ActivitiesATTENDANCEABSENCESExcused AbsencesMake Up Work Due to AbsencesREPORTING ABSENCESHow to Report AbsencesEarly Dismissal Reporting and ProcedurePre-Arranged AbsencesApps to Assist Students with Tardy Check-ins and Early DismissalsUNEXCUSED ABSENCES AND TRUANCYUnexcused Absences and TruancyConsequences for Leaving Class Without Permission (Student is Still on Campus)Consequences for Leaving Campus Without Permission (Student left Campus)2

EARLY RELEASEEarly Release for SeniorsAvoiding Revocation of Early ReleaseTARDIESHow to Report Late Arrivals to SchoolTardies and after school activitiesUnexcused tardies per quarterConsequences for unexcused tardies to schoolUnexcused Tardy After 10amUnexcused Tardy to the ClassroomDISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCESSafe HarborDisciplinary consequencesEXPECTATIONS OF STUDENT BEHAVIOR (Listed in alphabetical order)Audio and Video RecordingsAvoiding Discipline ReferralsBullyingCell Phone Practice - Use of Cell Phones and other Non-Instructional TechnologyDefianceDeficiencies (inc. laptops)Distribution of Literature or Other MaterialsFights, Assaults and ThreatsFood DeliveryGamblingGangs;Graduation Ceremony;Guest Speakers;Horseplay and Hazing;Inappropriate Literature,Pictures and Drawings;Initiating a Disruption;Lunch Time Expectations;Lying, Stealing and Forgery;Minute of SilenceObscenity, Profanity, Racial/Ethnic Slurs and Demeaning Comments;Sex-based discrimination and Harassment;Student DancesParticipation in extracurricular Activities;Public Display of Affection;Threats;Refusal to Identify Self;Restroom;Vandalism;Vending Machines;Visitors.3

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STUDENT SERVICESBusesLunch - How to Pay for LunchLockersLost and FoundParking Permits and Senior Parking Spot PaintingPayments Made to the SchoolSchool StoreTextbooksSCHOOL BOARD POLICIES AND REGULATIONS (In alphabetical order)Alcohol, Drug, Tobacco and Electronic CigarettesAssessment and Grading Policy and RegulationBullyingDress CodeStudent Technology Acceptable Use PolicyTitle IX and Sex-Based Discrimination and Sexual HarassmentWeapons Policy5

INTRODUCTION TO FREEDOM HIGH SCHOOLPortrait of a GraduateThe Virginia Department of Education and Loudoun County Public Schools have adopted aPortrait of a Graduate with a list of skills that all graduates should have. The following showshow LCPS and Freedom HS have furthered the vision of the state’s education leaders.Virginia’s Portrait of a GraduateThe Department of Education considers the following to be essential knowledge and skills thatstudents should attain during high school in order to be successful:· Critical Thinking· Creative Thinking· Collaboration· Communication· CitizenshipLoudoun County Public Schools Profile of a GraduateLoudoun County Public Schools has adopted the following as essential elements for everygraduate.· Critical Thinkers· Creators· Collaborators· Communicators· ContributorsSource: LCPS Website6

OUR MISSION STATEMENTThe mission of Freedom High School, in partnership with the parents and community, is toprovide all students a diverse and challenging educational experience that will prepare them fortheir role in an ever-changing global society.OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES1. Provide a safe, secure environment.2. Continually look for effective ways students learn and effective ways we provide instruction.OUR MOTTO AND CORE VALUES“Where There is Unity,There is Freedom.”Below are our core values and what they mean:● Empathy and compassion: Listening and understanding someone else’s reality andcaring about their story and their contribution to the community.● Embracing diversity and inclusion: Recognizing the diversity in our communityand being actively inclusive so all voices are heard and everyone is invited to be aparticipant.● Perseverance: Building the fortitude and resilience to overcome challenges, learn fromthe experiences, and move forward.● Trustworthiness: Creating authentic relationships by believing that adults andstudents are making decisions with each person’s best interests in mind.● Accountability: Investing the time to self-reflect, be honest with ourselves, andcommunicate effectively when taking ownership of our actions.7

LCPS COMMITMENT TO EQUITYLCPS centers equity as one of its foundational core values. For our community, equity meansbeing committed to providing a safe, supportive, inclusive, affirming, and respectfulenvironment for each student and staff member that fosters success, growth, and academicrigor. The cultivation of this environment requires us to reject and condemn the use of hatespeech, racial slurs, antisemitism, and any action or behavior that discriminates based on race,ethnicity, national origin, gender, orientation, gender expression, socio-economic status,religion, ability, or other cultural identities or expression. Such noninclusive speech, behavior,and actions do not reflect who we are as a learning community.We embrace and value the unique identities, backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and needsof each student and employee. Celebrating our diversity is important and helps define us as aschool division.Demonstrating the courage to address inequities and remove barriers represents an integral partof our collective effort towards excellence in education. Equity is the vehicle that leads to greateraccess, opportunity, and equality so that each student is empowered to make meaningfulcontributions to the world.Source: LCPS Website8

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGEDear Freedom Students,Welcome to the 2023 - 24 school year! We are looking forward to an excellent school year andwe hope that you will create lifelong memories during this upcoming year.When you come on the first day of school, once again, you will be entering the largest highschool in the county. This will be Freedom’s 19thyear as a high school and we have gone from440 students in 2005 to almost 2000 students this year.I am proud of your accomplishments and am looking forward to building a better Freedom HighSchool together in collaboration with you. Your past academic and extracurricularaccomplishments outshine any in the county, and I am confident that you will continue to buildon them.This year we will continue to have a 10-minute break between the first two blocks onnon-advisory days (Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays) for you to get a snack and take a littlebreak. We also plan to hold the International Festival, which proved to be very successful lastspring, and we are currently working to implement more wellness activities to our Fridayadvisory block.My challenge to you this year is to continue improving our school motto, “Where there isUNITY, there is Freedom.” I know that you are a compassionate student body that respects andtakes care of each other. But remember to look around and see if there is someone who coulduse a little extra care. Reach out to the person and bring them into your circle. I know thattogether we aspire to be an inclusive, caring and safe community, so let’s add more examples ofthis to our already enriched history.I serve as your principal with a great deal of pride and commitment to our community. I want tohear from you so that together we can make Freedom even better. If my office door is open, Iinvite you to come in for a chat. See you on August 24th.Your proud principal,Ms. Chaudhry9

SCA MESSAGEDear Freedom Eagles,As we enter the 2023-2024 school year, I am so honored to have the opportunity to serve as yourStudent Council President. Looking ahead to homecoming, pep rallies, spirit weeks, and muchmore, I know all of you are going to make this an amazing year through your spirit, kindness,and inclusivity. The student body at Freedom is truly the best community because of the positiveculture all of you create by always being ready to help out and make others feel seen and heard.Whether you are entering your first, second, third, or last year at Freedom, I encourage you tocontinue to challenge yourself and explore your passions--inside and outside of the classroom.The teachers and staff at Freedom are always there to make sure you excel in every aspect ofyour education and life, and I encourage you to ask questions, collaborate with your peers, andseek help when needed. Outside of the classroom, make sure to get involved at Freedom byplaying a sport, joining a club or organization, attending a football game, watching the schoolplay, etc. The opportunities to get involved are endless, and the relationships you form, thememories you make, and the interests you grow will truly be some of the best parts of the year.The other officers and I are so honored to help create an inclusive, spirited environment for allof you this school year. We are here to listen to your ideas or concerns, and I encourage you tocommunicate with any of the officers because we want to make this year the best it can be foryou. We are so excited for this school year and cannot wait for all the memories we get to maketogether.Sincerely,Ann Cherian, 2023-2024 SCA President2023-24 SCA OFFICERSPresident - Ann CherianVice President - Ainsleigh WoodSecretary - Madison LoweTreasurer - Tara BhogarajuHistorian - Labibah Baba2023-24 CLASS OFFICERSClass of 2024 (Grade 12) Class of 2025 (Grade 11)President: Joey Arzaga President: Brogan WymanVice-president: Layla Ginty Vice-President: Fiker TemesgenSecretary: Eva Walters Secretary: Chase TriplettTreasure: Wayne Williams II Treasurer: Ava ChristopherHistorian: Lucero Salgado Lozada Historian: Riley WalshClass of 2026 (Grade 10) Class of 2027 (Grade 9)President: Ty Beyer President: Abby KamonVice-president: Mae Haddad Essian Vice President: Alonso RiosSecretary: Aiden Christian Secretary: Joanna MatechakTreasurer: Cassidy Heuser Treasurer: Justin AkoueteHistorian: Brisa Gimenez Historian: Heran Ayele10

CONTACT NUMBERS AND SCHOOL PERSONNELMAIN CONTACT NUMBERSMain Office 703-957-4300School Counseling 703-957-4307Athletics 703-957-4308Attendance 703-957-4309Website www.lcps.org/fhsSCHOOL PERSONNELAdministrationNeelum Chaudhry PrincipalDarnell Barbour Assistant Principal; Student last names A-DCaSandra Alexander Assistant Principal; Student last names E-KPhuong Lue Assistant Principal; Student last names L-Q and YKathryn Koscinski Assistant Principal; Student last names R-X and ZKen Christopher Director of Student CounselingKevin Weeren Athletic DirectorLaura Wrighte Assistant Athletic DirectorJackie Hubbard Special Education DeanTim Willmot Student Activities & Engagement CoordinatorShawn Adkins Student Support Advisor (SSA)Jason King Testing CoordinatorInformation TechnologyMatt Korona Instructional Facilitator Technology (IFT)Varalakshmi Manne Digital Experience SpecialistPatrick McNanley Digital Experience SpecialistFront Office StaffChristina Adelman BookkeeperSamia Khan Attendance SecretaryDanielle Henry Main Office SecretaryKelly Good Main Office SecretaryStefani Shomali Main Office SecretarySchool Counseling OfficeKenneth Christopher Director of School CounselingColleen Hurley Assistant Director of School CounselingLisa Harris School Social WorkerSuzanne Goldbecker School PsychologistBlaise Carland Student Assistant SpecialistLisa Strother School Counseling Secretary/RegistrarSuzanne Wyker School Counseling SecretaryLisa Wood Career Center SpecialistAisha Rostom Family Liaison11

Counselor AssignmentsLast name of student Counselor EmailA-BOT Irene Lee YeRin.Lee@lcps.orgBOU-DO Cristi Goldberg Cristi.Goldberg@lcps.orgDR-HAL Celia Benz Celia.Benz@lcps.orgHAM-KE Darlene Adu-Gyamfi Darlene.AduGyamfi@lcps.orgKH-MC Pablo Barrios Juan.Barrios@lcps.orgME-NG Colleen Hurley Colleen.Hurley@lcps.orgNH-ROC Lauren Arjes Lauren.Arjes@lcps.orgROG-TAY Dave Paganin David.Paganin@lcps.orgTCH-Z LaQuesia Wright LaQuesia.Wright@lcps.orgSafety and SecuritySusan Outten Lead School Security Officer (SSO)Theodore Whitney School Security Officer (SSO)Kenneth Reynolds School Security Officer (SSO)Jason Gadell School Resource Officer (SRO)Health OfficeTBD School NurseMariola Roberts School Nurse AssistantDepartment ChairsHeather Williamson CTEVeronica Short EnglishJacqueline Clement English Language LearnersNick Schwarz Health & PEJonathan Schiffler Fine ArtsRegina Greer and Becca Lupton MathHyun Yim ScienceBen Gibson Social ScienceDilraj Singh and Priti Rao Special EducationLauren Shoemaker and Teresa Blanchard World Languages and Culture12

CALENDARS AND SCHEDULESCALENDAR OF SCHOOL EVENTS 2023-24All Freedom High School non-athletic events start at 7 p.m.August 16-23 Teacher workdays (County In-Service Day, August 17)August 17 Grade level schedule walkthroughsAugust 19 and 26 Senior Parking Lot PaintingAugust 22 College Application Academy (10:00 a,m,)Freshman Parent Night (5:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.)August 24 First Day of SchoolAugust 25 Mini-Pep RallyAugust 29 Back to School NightSeptember 1 Student HolidaySeptember 4 Holiday (Labor Day)September 7-8 Underclassmen PortraitsSeptember 9 Tag DaySeptember 25 Holiday (Yom Kippur)October 2-6 Homecoming Spirit WeekOctober 6 Pep Rally and Homecoming GameOctober 7 Homecoming DanceOctober 9 Holiday (Indigenous Peoples’ Day)October 11 PSAT and Powder Puff VolleyballOctober 17 Chorus Fall ConcertOctober 24 VTA ShowcaseOctober 26 Orchestra Fall ConcertOctober 27 End of Grading PeriodOctober 30-31 Student Holiday (Teacher Workday) and Senior portraitsNovember 2 Band Fall ConcertNovember 7 Student Holiday (County In-Service Day)November 9-10 Senior Portrait Make-upsNovember 13 Holiday (Diwali)November 16, 17, 18 Fall PlayNovember 22-24 Thanksgiving BreakDecember 11-20 Spirit WeekDecember 12 Orchestra Winter ConcertDecember 13 Chorus Winter ConcertDecember 14 Guitar Winter ConcertDecember 20 Pep RallyDecember 21-29 Winter BreakDecember 25-26 Holiday (Christmas)January 1 Holiday (New Year’s Day)January 15 Holiday (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)January 17 VHSL ShowcaseJanuary 19 End of Grading PeriodJanuary 22 Student Holiday (Teacher Workday)February 2 Theatre/Tech Theatre 1 ShowcaseFebruary 9 Holiday (Lunar New Year)February 9, 10, 11, 12 Winter One-Act Play FestivalFebruary 19 Holiday (Presidents’ Day)13

February 22-25 Winter MusicalFebruary 23 Staff vs. Student BasketballMarch 5 Student Holiday (County In-Service Day)March 25-29 Spring BreakApril 4 End of Grading PeriodApril 5 Student Holiday (Teacher Workday)April 10 Holiday (Eid al Fitr)April 11-13 One-Act Play FestivalApril 12 Powder Puff FootballApril 16 Fine Arts Cluster Concert and Art ShowApril 22-26 Spirit WeekApril 23 Orchestra Spring ConcertApril 26 Pep RallyApril 27 PromMay 2 Guitar Spring ConcertMay 3-4 Class Musical ShowcaseMay 11 Theatre Senior ShowcaseMay 22 Band Spring ConcertMay 23 Chorus Spring ConcertMay 24 Jazz and Percussion ConcertMay 27 Holiday (Memorial Day)June 5 Cabaret PerformanceJune 14 Last Day of School/End of Grading PeriodJune 15 Graduation, 7pm14

RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS 2023-24ReligionHolidayDayDateHinduRaksha BandhanWednesdayWednesday, August 30, 2023HinduJanmashtamiWednesday - ThursdaySeptember 6 - September 7, 2023JewishRosh HashanahFriday -SundaySeptember 15 - September 17, 2023HinduGanesh ChaturthiMondayMonday, September 18, 2023JewishYom KippurSunday - MondaySeptember 24 - September 25, 2023MuslimThe Prophet's BirthdayTuesday - WednesdaySeptember 26 - September 27, 2023JewishSukkotFriday - FridaySeptember 29 - October 6, 2023JewishShemini AtzeretFriday - SaturdayOctober 6 - October 7, 2023JewishSimchat TorahSaturday - SundayOctober 7 - October 8, 2023HinduNavaratriSunday - TuesdayOctober 15 - October 24, 2023HinduDussehraTuesdayTuesday, October 24, 2023CatholicAll Saints DayWednesdayWednesday, November 1, 2023HinduDiwali/DeepavaliSundaySunday, November 12, 2023JewishChanukah/HanukkahThursday - FridayDecember 7 - December 15, 2023CatholicThe Immaculate ConceptionFridayFriday, December 8, 2023ChristianChristmasMondayMonday, December 25, 2023CatholicSolemnity of MaryMondayMonday, January 1, 2024JewishTu Bishvat Tu B’ShevatWednesday - ThursdayJanuary 24 - January 25, 2024MuslimIsra & Mi’rajTuesday - WednesdayFebruary 6 - February 7, 2024ChineseChinese Lunar New YearSaturdaySaturday, February 10, 2024ChristianAsh WednesdayWednesdayWednesday, February 14, 2024HinduMaha ShivaratriFridayFriday, March 8, 2024MuslimRamadanSunday - MondayMarch 10 - April 8, 2024JewishPurimSaturday - SundayMarch 23 - March 24, 2024HinduHoliMondayMonday, March 25, 2024ChristianGood FridayFridayFriday, March 29, 2024ChristianEasterSundaySunday, March 31, 2024MuslimLaylat al-QadrSaturdaySaturday, April 6, 2024MuslimEid al-FitrTuesday - WednesdayApril 9 - April 10, 2024JewishPassoverMonday - TuesdayApril 22 - April 30, 2024CatholicAscension DayThursdayThursday, May 9, 2024JewishYom Ha’atzmautMonday - TuesdayMay 13 - May 14, 2024JewishShavuotTuesday - ThursdayJune 11 - June 13, 2024MuslimEid al-AdhaSunday - MondayJune 16 - June 17, 202415

SCHOOL TIMINGSStart Time: 9:30 a.m. Dismissal Time: 4:18 p.m.Classes begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, unless otherwise announced. Allstudents must arrive at school by 9:45 a.m. if they plan to participate in any extra-curricularactivity after school including games, performances, practices, and rehearsals.Students who remain on school grounds after 4:18 p.m. must be under the direct supervision ofa staff member. Students are to leave school grounds immediately after school is dismissed andmay not return except for attendance at a school sponsored-activity. Students found in thebuilding after these hours without permission will be considered as trespassing. Studentsinvolved in after-school activities are to take all books and personal belongings with them to theactivity. Since the academic wing will be closed after 5:30 p.m., access to lockers or classroomswill not be possible. Students must exit the building from the part of the building in which theactivity takes place.16

FREEDOM HIGH SCHOOL BELL SCHEDULE FOR THE FIRST FOUR DAYSTHURSDAY, AUGUST 24Advisory, 10 min. Break9:20 Warning Bell9:25 Warning Bell9:30-9:55 ADVISORY(25 mins.)10:01-11:20 1st Block(79 mins)10 mins break; cafeteria andsnack stations open11:30-12:48 2nd Blockxxxxxxxxxxxx(78 mins)12:54-2:54 3rd /7th Block(90 mins & 30 mins lunch)12:54-1:24 A LUNCH1:24-1:54 B LUNCH1:54-2:24 C LUNCH2:24-2:54 D LUNCH3:00-4:18 4th Block(78 mins)FRIDAY, AUGUST 25Advisory, 10 min. Breakand Mini Pep Rally9:20 Warning Bell9:25 Warning Bell9:30-9:45 ADVISORYxxxxxxxxxxxxxx(15 mins.)9:51-11:02 5th Block(71 mins.)10 mins break; cafeteria andsnack stations open11:12-12:24 6th Blockxxxxxxxxxxxxx(72 mins.)12:30-2:30 7th Block(90 mins. & 30 mins)12:30-1:00 A LUNCH1:00-1:30 B LUNCH1:30-2:00 C LUNCH2:00-2:30 D LUNCH2:36-3:47 8th Block(71 mins.)3:50-4:18 Mini Pep Rally(28 mins.)PARTICIPANTS WILL BERELEASED AT 3:30 PM FORTHE PEP RALLYMONDAY, AUGUST 28Advisory, 10 min. Break9:20 Warning Bell9:25 Warning Bell9:30-9:55 ADVISORY(25 mins.)10:01-11:20 1st Block(79 mins)10 mins break; cafeteria andsnack stations open11:30-12:48 2nd Blockxxxxxxxxxx (78 mins)12:54-2:54 3rd Block(90 mins. & 30 mins lunch)12:54-1:24 A LUNCH1:24-1:54 B LUNCH1:54-2:24 C LUNCH2:24-2:54 D LUNCH3:00-4:18 4th Block(78 mins)TUESDAY AUGUST 29Advisory Schedule9:20 WarningBell9:25 WarningBell9:30-10:50 5th Blockxxxxxxxxxxxxx(80 mins.)10:56-11:21 ADVISORYxxxxxxxxxxxxx(25 mins.)11:27-12:47 6th Blockxxxxxxxxxxxxxx(80 mins.)12:53-2:53 7th Period(90 mins. & 30 mins. lunch)12:53-1:23 A LUNCH1:23-1:53 B LUNCH1:53-2:23 C LUNCH2:23-2:53 D LUNCH2:59-4:18 8th Blockxxxxxxxxxxxxx(79 mins.)17

FREEDOM HIGH SCHOOL REGULAR BELL SCHEDULES 2023-24SCHEDULE 1Regular Bell Schedule(Monday, Wednesday, Thursday)9:20 Warning Bell9:25 Warning Bell9:30-11:00 1st/5th Block (90 mins.)10 min break; cafeteria open11:10-12:38 2nd/6th Block (88 mins.)12:44-2:44 3rd/7th Block(90 mins. Plus 30 mins. lunch)12:44-1:14 A LUNCH1:14-1:44 B LUNCH1:44-2:14 C LUNCH2:14-2:44 D LUNCH2:50-4:18 4th/8th Block (88 mins.)SCHEDULE 2ADVISORY DAYS(Tuesday and Friday)9:20 Warning Bell9:25 Warning Bell9:30-10:50 1st/5thBlock (80 mins.)10:56-11:21 ADVISORY (25 mins.)11:27-12:47 2nd/6thBlock (80 mins.)12:53-2:53 3rd/7th Block(90 mins. Plus 30 mins. lunch)12:53-1:23 A LUNCH1:23-1:53 B LUNCH1:53-2:23 C LUNCH2:23-2:53 D LUNCH2:59-4:18 4th/8thBlock (79 mins.)SCHEDULE 3One-Hour Delay Bell Schedule10:20 Warning Bell10:25 Warning Bell10:30-11:35 1st/5th Block (65 mins.)11:41-12:46 2nd/6th Block (65 mins.)12:52-2:52 3rd/7th Block(90 mins. Plus 30 mins. lunch)12:52-1:22 A LUNCH1:22-1:52 B LUNCH1:52-2:22 C LUNCH2:22-2:52 D LUNCH2:58-4:18 4th/8th Block (80 mins.)SCHEDULE 4Two-Hour Delay Bell Schedule11:20 Warning Bell11:25 Warning Bell11:30-12:30 1st/5th Block (60 mins.)12:36-2:06 3rd/7th Block(45 mins. Plus 45 mins. lunch)12:36-1:21 A LUNCH (Upstairs & All Eagle wing)1:26-2:06 B LUNCH (Downstairs, HPE, Fine Arts)2:12-3:12 2nd/6th Block (60 mins.)3:18-4:18 4th/8th Block (60mins.)SCHEDULE 5End of Day Pep Rally Schedule9:20 Warning Bell9:25 Warning Bell9:30-10:35 1st/5th Block (65 mins.)10:41-11:46 2nd/6th Block (65 mins.)11:52-1:52 3rd/7th Block(90 mins. Plus 30 mins. lunch)11:52-12:22 A LUNCH12:22-12:52 B LUNCH12:52-1:22 C LUNCH1:22-1:52 D LUNCH1:58-3:03 4th/8th Block (65 mins.)3:05-4:18 Pep Rally (73 mins.)PARTICIPANTS WILL BE RELEASED AT 2:45 PMSCHEDULE 6Mini Pep Rally Bell Schedule9:20 Warning Bell9:25 Warning Bell9:30-10:50 1st/5th Block (80 mins.)10:56-12:16 2nd/6th Block (80 mins.)12:22-2:22 3rd/7th Block(90 mins. Plus 30 mins. lunch)12:22-12:52 A LUNCH12:52-1:22 B LUNCH1:22-1:52 C LUNCH1:52-2:22 D LUNCH2:28-3:48 4th/8th Block (80 mins.)3:50-4:18 Mini Pep Rally (28 mins.)PARTICIPANTS WILL BE RELEASED AT 3:30 PM18

2023-2024 LUNCH SCHEDULERegular Bell Schedule - A daysAFine Arts, World Languages and Culture, Program Rooms, Self-contained study hallBSocial Science and Global Studies, CTECMath, SCA, PEER, SOSDScience, H&PE, Teacher CadetRegular Bell Schedule - B daysAFine Arts, English, Program Room, Leadership Academy, Self-contained study hallBSocial Science and Global StudiesCWorld Languages and Culture, Math, SOSDScience, H&PE, CTEAlternative Bell Schedule for Lunch on A daysA/BFine Arts, World Language and Culture, Program Room, Self-contained study hall, SocialScience, CTEC/DMath, SCA, PEER, SOS, Science, H&PE, Teacher CadetAlternative Bell Schedule for Lunch on B daysA/BFine Arts, English, Social Science, Program Rooms, Leadership Academy,Self-contained study hallC/DWorld Language and Culture, Math, SOS, H&PE, Science, CTE*Study hall teachers will have lunch with their departments.19

COUNSELING DEPARTMENTFreedom High School Counseling Mission StatementIn collaboration with students, faculty, parents/guardians, and the community, the FreedomHigh School Counseling Department provides an equitable, comprehensive, and developmentalschool counseling program that leads all students to success. By advocating on behalf of allstudents, we provide access to a safe and positive educational environment that encouragesacademic achievement and fosters social, emotional, and mental wellness. We empower allstudents to acquire the knowledge necessary to attain lifelong educational, career, andpersonal/social fulfillment throughout high school, and for years to come beyond graduation.Freedom High School Counseling Department Vision StatementIn line with the Virginia Department of Education Vision and Mission, the Loudoun CountyPublic Schools Vision, and the Freedom High School Mission, the Freedom High SchoolCounseling Department envisions that all students are motivated learners and can challengethemselves to achieve their utmost potential. They apply critical thinking and creativeproblem-solving to endeavors and communicate and collaborate effectively with others as activeand engaging citizens. The students actively strive to attain knowledge and skills that will helpthem fully realize their academic, career and personal goals, both short term and long term,five-15 years after graduation. Students are enthusiastically engaged in their education andremain life-long learners who stay current and informed in an ever-changing, diverse societyand global community. Graduates of Freedom High School will be prepared to adapt and workin careers that have not been created yet. Students are responsible citizens who show care forthemselves and compassion and respect for others and aspire to make meaningful contributionsto the world.Counseling Department ContactsDirector of School Counseling Assistant Director of School CounselingKen Christopher Colleen HurleyKenneth.Christopher@lcps.org Colleen.Hurley@lcps.orgCounselor AssignmentsLast name of student Counselor EmailA-BOT Irene Lee YeRin.Lee@lcps.orgBOU-DO Cristi Goldberg Cristi.Goldberg@lcps.orgDR-HAL Celia Benz Celia.Benz@lcps.orgHAM-KE Darlene Adu-Gyamfi Darlene.AduGyamfi@lcps.orgKH-MC Pablo Barrios Juan.Barrios@lcps.orgME-NG Colleen Hurley Colleen.Hurley@lcps.orgNH-ROC Lauren Arjes Lauren.Arjes@lcps.orgROG-TAY Dave Paganin David.Paganin@lcps.orgTCH-Z LaQuesia Wright LaQuesia.Wright@lcps.org20

School Social WorkerLisa HarrisLisa.Harris@lcps.orgStudent Assistant SpecialistBlaise CarlandBlaise.Carland@lcps.orgCareer Center SpecialistLisa WoodLisa.Wood@lcps.orgAdministrative AssistantSuzanne WykerSuzanne.Wyker@lcps.orgSchool PsychologistSuzanne GoldbeckerSuzanne.Goldbecker@lcps.orgRegistrarLisa StrotherLisa.Strother@lcps.orgFamily LiaisonAisha RostomAisha.Rostom@lcps.orgCommunication Procedure for Students, Teachers, Parents and CounselorFreedom High School encourages open communication between students, teachers, counselors,administration, and parents as a fundamental component of student success and achievement.The ability to communicate is an essential life skill for students to acquire. If a student has aquestion or concern within a class, the following steps of communication should be modeled bystudents and adults.1. Students and teachers are encouraged to communicate directly with each other. If thestudent needs help with communicating with the teacher, the student can request to seehis or her counselor to discuss communication techniques.2. Parent and teacher – when questions arise that cannot be answered through onsiteresources (Schoology, SIS, website, etc.), parents are urged to email the teacher.3. After the student, parent, and teacher (and counselor if applicable) have communicatedvia email and/or phone, a conference may be requested by contacting the teacher. If aparent would like a conference with more than one teacher, the parent should contact thestudent’s counselor. The student is expected to attend teacher conferences and to be apart of planning the action plan of student support. Any member of the conference mayask for a counselor or an assistant principal to participate in the meeting.4. After the conference, a student and/or parent may request a conference with theadministrator if additional follow-up is necessary.How do Students Request to See a Counselor?The preferred method to request an appointment with your School Counselor is to email yourSchool Counselor with the request. In the email, make sure to include the purpose of yourrequest and your Study Hall Block. If this is not possible, students may fill out this form insteadin order to see their counselor. Your School Counselor will send an e-Hall Pass for you duringyour Study Hall or your Early Release period.* If you have an emergency, please report it to the School Counseling Office immediately.*21

Restorative PracticesAs stated in the LCPS website:Students who commit infractions while on school property, participating in or attending anyschool-sponsored activity—regardless of its location, including travel to and from an event,going to or returning from school— irrespective of the mode of transportation, or thatsubstantially disrupts school operations, regardless of where such conduct occurred, may begiven an opportunity to understand how their behavior affects others in the school community,including students, teachers, and parent/guardians, through a process that directly involvesrelevant stakeholders to repair the harm caused. With the support of the United Mental HealthTeam (UMHT), students may participate in “circles,” “peer mediations,” or other “conferences”to allow affected parties to come together in a safe environment to explore how everyone hasbeen affected by an offense and, when possible, to decide how to repair the harm. Principals mayuse restorative practices in conjunction with, or as part of, other dispositions.22

FHS Career CenterPlanning Life After High SchoolYour first step in planning life after high school should be to log into SchooLinks. SchooLinks isa comprehensive college and career readiness tool used in LCPS. It is a web-based counselingsoftware package that helps connect academic achievement to the student's post-secondarygoals. It allows counselors, parents, and the student to collaborate in the college admissionsprocess and career planning. Here are the steps to follow:● Students can log into SchoolLinks through LCPS Go. When first logging in, students willneed to “Onboard.” Follow the prompts to take the short assessment to help you identifya career path that interests you. The choices you enter are not permanent, and studentscan always retake the assessment.● Parents can create their own password. Contact the Career Specialist at Freedom HighSchool for access.● Make sure your email address is up-to-date. All communication comes through youremail.Searching for Careers — Click the ‘Careers’ Tab in School LinksCareer Exploration begins when you Onboard with a short personality assessment. Learn fromyour results what Career Clusters interest you. Based on your selections, SchooLinks will sharepotential college majors and other career opportunities with you.Searching for Colleges — Click on the ‘Colleges’ Tab in School LinksTrack information about the colleges you are thinking about and applying to. Sign up forcolleges that are visiting FHS.College Research - Search the database of over 4000 colleges and universities using criteriasuch as size, location, cost, majors, athletics programs, etc. This tab includes graphs andScattergrams providing a view of college application outcomes (accepted, denied, waitlisted) forapplicants from Freedom High School using GPA and SAT scores. You can gauge your chancesof acceptance at the college you are interested in.Financing College - Click on the ‘Finances’ tab to select the Scholarship Match or the CollegeFinancing option to use the tool to estimate the cost of colleges you are interested in attending.Learning About Yourself — Click the ‘Activities’ Tab in School LinksSchooLinks Assessments - take a variety of assessments to understand your preferences, skills,learning style, how you focus and what type of campus lifestyle you want to lead.Learning Plan - Explore different chapters to learn everything it takes to be career and collegeready from Career Cluster overviews to employable skills, financial aid, jobs, internships,making the most out of high school, planning for 2 & 4 year schools, the military, and more.Careers tab provides students an opportunity to view available local volunteer, internship,apprenticeship, and job opportunities. You can also learn more about potential employers andabout how to create your own resume.23

ATHLETICSContactsAthletic Director Assistant Athletic DirectorKevin Weeren Laura WrighteVirginia High School League (VHSL)VHSL governs athletics, drama, debate, forensics, and academic competitions. Freedom is amember of Class 6, Region B, Cedar Run District for all athletics. Athletes must read, sign, andabide by the Loudoun Student Athletic Handbook’s rules and procedures.Eligibility for VHSL Activities● Students must have been enrolled in a minimum of five courses and have passed at leastfive courses the previous semester to their participating season.● Students must not have been enrolled in school for more than eight consecutivesemesters.● Students must not have reached their 19th birthday on or before the first day of Augustof the year participating.● Students must have completed a VHSL Physical Form.NOTE: For additional VHSL Eligibility requirements, see the Athletic Director.SportsmanshipWe take pride in supporting the VHSL Sportsmanship Code. Participants and spectators areexpected to demonstrate good sportsmanship by following the VHSL standards. We cheer forour fellow students and do not show negative, taunting, or disrespectful behavior. Inappropriatebehavior will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action including removal fromparticipation and/or attendance at events. The athletic handbook lists specific expectationsrelated to athletic training rules. Coaches conduct mandatory preseason meetings with parentsand students to review expectations, training rules, and sportsmanship.Behavior at Athletic EventsAll students who attend a school sponsored LCPS function are expected to set the best exampleof appropriate behavior. Freedom High School has a reputation for positive sportsmanship andaudience courtesy. We expect students and the community to help continue this tradition. Inaccordance with local athletic district policies, students may not be shirtless and must follow thedress code policies at all school events. All school policies apply to extracurricular events.Participation in Daily AthleticsAthletes must arrive at school by 9:45 a.m. if they plan to participate in after-school practices,games, or meets. All participants must be registered at Freedom High School as a full-timestudent.24

SCHOOL HEALTH OFFICE & INFORMATIONParent/Guardian Contact InformationEmergency contact phone numbers and information must be kept up-to-date so we can reachparents/guardians if the student is ill or injured. The Health Office is open from 9:15 a.m. – 4:18p.m. All student medications (prescription and over the counter) must be checked into thehealth office by a parent/guardian. Except for an emergency, students who are ill or need to visitthe nurse must have a pass from their teacher and check in and out of the health office.MedicationPer Policy 8420, “Student Medication,” all medication will be managed and administered perthe Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) guidelines. All medication, other than stockepinephrine, should be provided by the parent or guardian. It is also recommended that allmedications be administered to students at home whenever possible. Policy and Regulation8420, “Student Medication,” provides a comprehensive overview regarding the informationprovided below and should be reviewed by parents.If medication is brought to school, it must be kept secure in the school health office unlessthe student has permission to carry, per Policy 8420. If it is necessary for a student to takemedication while attending school, the following procedures must be observed:● Students are not permitted to transport medication to and from school or carry anymedication while in school except for medications for diabetes, rescue inhalers, andepinephrine auto-injectors if they have LCPS authorization and an order from a licensedhealth care provider to do so.● All prescription and non-prescription medication provided by the parent must be in theoriginal, labeled container.● LCPS Health Offices do not stock acetaminophen/Tylenol.Prescription MedicationThe parent must provide the principal, school nurse, or school health clinic specialist with themedication and a completed “Authorization for Medication Administration” form. This formincludes written instructions from the physician. Copies of the form are available in the schooloffice, the health office and on the LCPS website under the “Student Health Services” link of the“Services” tab. A new “Physician Order/Action Plan” must be provided to the school at thebeginning of each school year for medications, seizures, asthma, anaphylaxis, diabetes or anyother serious medical condition. Parents are asked to bring in no more than a 60-day supply ofprescription medicine at a time. Any herbal or natural alternative medications (botanicals,dietary or nutritional supplements, homeopathic medicine, phytomedicines, vitamins, andminerals) require an “Authorization for Medication Administration” form that includes dosage,time and reason for administration signed by the physician and parent or guardian.A 24-hour supply of the medication needed for students who must have the medicine toavoid serious health consequences (insulin, seizure medication, etc.) should be left in the schoolhealth office in case of a prolonged school day. The medication must be in an originalpharmacy-labeled container with a physician’s order on file in the health office and must includethe time that the medication is to be administered in a 24-hour period.25

Non-Prescription MedicationThe parent must provide the principal, school nurse ,or school health clinic specialist with themedication and a completed “Authorization for Medication Administration” form with thenon-prescription portion completed and signed by the parent or guardian. The medication mustbe in the original, labeled container which must include the following:● Student’s Name;● Name and purpose of medication;● Dosage and time of medication; and,● Termination date for administering medication.Non-prescription medication will only be administered according to directions on the label. If ahigher dosage is required, a signed “Authorization for Medication Administration” form fromthe physician must accompany the medication. Cough drops and throat lozenges are considerednon-prescription medication. In order to maintain a high standard of safety and care, medicalinformation regarding students with health concerns are shared with school staff on anas-needed basis.Extended Day Field Trip MedicationsAny prescription medication which needs to be administered on an extended day or overnightfield trip must have the “Authorization for Medication Administration” form completed andsigned by the parent and physician on file in the health office. Medication for these field tripsmust be supplied in an original pharmacy-labeled container with the amount of medicationrequired for the field trip.Overnight or International Field Trip MedicationThe parent/guardian of a high school student who is participating in an overnight orinternational field trip has the option of signing permission to authorize the child to carry andself-administer either over-the-counter or prescription medication when the parent/guardianaccepts complete responsibility for both the child’s decision and actions while on the trip. TheOvernight and International Field Trips forms must be completed and submitted to the schoolnurse with completed “Authorization for Medication Administration” paperwork for eachmedication no later than two weeks prior to the departure date of the field trip.Parents must supply both the over-the-counter and the prescription medication for allovernight or international field trips even if the parent does not choose to have the child carryand self-administer the medication. Medication will not be provided from the health office forovernight and international field trips. Over-the-counter medication must be stored in theoriginal manufacturer’s container with no more medication than is required for the duration ofthe field trip.Prescription medication must be stored in the pharmacy-dispensed and labeledprescription container with no more than what is required for the duration of the field trips.Return to School after Surgery or Emergency Room VisitStudents who had surgery, were treated in the emergency room, or were hospitalized areexpected to bring a physician’s clearance for school attendance when the student is authorized toreturn to school (i.e. Return to Learn). This clearance should include any restrictions the studentmay have and the duration of the restrictions.Required VaccinationsEffective July 1, 2021, a minimum of 2 doses of Meningococcal Conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine.At high school the final dose should be administered prior to entering 12th grade, as the firstdose should have been administered prior to entering 7th grade.26

LIBRARYThe FHS library program exists to provide a safe, accessible, relevant, inclusive, collaborativeenvironment for the entire school community to become enthusiastic readers and critical,ethical, effective, and productive users of information in a global information society. The libraryis committed to providing quality instructional materials to support the student curriculum,popular recreational reading material, and literacy skill instruction to help students becomeproficient information users. We work collaboratively with teachers to support programs ofstudy with literacy skill instruction.Library Hours Library Staff:Monday through Friday – Barb Oliphant, Librarian8:15am to 4:30pm Mary Beth Bowen, LibrarianCatherine Gural-Sandoe, Library AssistantCollectionThe library is professionally staffed and equipped with a growing multimedia collection ofbooks, e-books, audiobooks, digital periodicals, and board games. Our online resources(e-books, audiobooks, digital magazines, databases, etc.) are accessible through the LibraryResources Folder found in LCPS GO. Many resources can be accessed remotely 24/7.Overdue ItemsFines are not assessed for overdue items. Students will receive reminder notices each quarter asitems become overdue.Student ConductStudents are expected to respectfully work, read, or visit others while maintaining a healthylearning environment. LCPS Acceptable Use Policy rules and regulations apply.Eagles Connect (Study Hall) PolicyAll students using the library during study hall will need an approved E-Hall pass from theirclassroom teacher. Each classroom will be able to send three students to the library at one time.Teachers need to submit the time of return for students on the e-hall pass if applicable.Learn more about the library on the FHS Library Website!27

ACADEMIC GRADINGOur primary mission is to create an environment that provides opportunities, challenges, andsupport to help each student achieve academic success and meet the challenges of life after highschool. We believe that all students are capable of learning and that by working together as apartnership of parents, students, and staff, we can help students reach their potential andprepare them for the future. Students and parents should work closely with the schoolcounselors to design a four-year plan to ensure that students are taking appropriate courses tomeet their goals.For the specific Assessment and Grading policy, please refer to LCPS School Board Policy#5030 and #5030 Reg A on the LCPS website.Assessments and GradingTeachers use a variety of assessments to derive student grades. Assessments include, but are notlimited to, tests, quizzes, projects, presentations, displays, reports, and homework.Formative AssessmentA formative assessment is assessment for learning that occurs during the learning process and isdesigned to guide next steps toward mastery. The goal of a formative assessment is to monitorlearning, provide feedback to students, and set goals to move learning forward. Informationgathered during formative assessment is used to inform next steps in instruction. Formativeassessments will not be used to determine final grades.The teachers will:● Provide a formative assessment before every major summative assessment.● Provide feedback that is specific, timely, clear, consistent, and actionable.● Provide feedback within 6 consecutive school days from the date the assignment iscollected. Teachers have 10 consecutive school days from the date the assignment iscollected when grading full-length written assignments, research papers, and analyticalwriting.The students will:● Complete formative assessments.● Review the feedback to prepare for the major summative assessment.● Meet with the teacher if the student needs additional help based on teacher feedback.Summative AssessmentA summative assessment is assessment of learning that occurs at the end of a learning cycle andis designed to determine a student’s level of mastery of specified content or competencies.Summative assessments become the source of information for grading.28

ReassessmentsReassessments encourage a growth mindset in students and allow them to demonstratemastery.The teacher will:● Provide one opportunity for reassessment of all major summative assessments tostudents who score below an 80%.● Remediation may be required prior to reassessment.● Schedule reassessments with the student who must take the test within ten (10)consecutive school days after the student receives feedback from the original assessmentand remediation.● Place a note in the grade book documenting the original score and the retake score.● The reassessment may be in a different format than the original assessment.● It should be the same level of difficulty and measure the same standards/competencies.The Student will:● Review the teacher's feedback.● Meet with the teacher to discuss a reassessment plan.● Complete the necessary remediation.● Retake the assessment within 10 school days of receiving the feedback.Late workTeachers, in consultation with student support teams and parents, will provide students whodemonstrate a pattern of repeated late or missing work with an appropriate intervention,including assigning a grade less than 50%.When a student has not submitted an assignment, the teacher will:● Speak with the student when the assignment is late.● Offer opportunities for extra help and agree on an extended due date.● Change the status of the assignment in the gradebook to ‘Missing’ and note the extendeddeadline under “Public Notes” in the gradebook.● Notify the parent either by email or phone to share the plan, available support, andextended deadline.Floor gradeStudents who make a reasonable effort in completing assessments will receive a grade of nolower than 50% for quarters 1, 2 and 3. However, the floor of 50% will not apply to the finalgrading quarter of the year or the final quarter of a semester class.29

LCPS Grading Scale based on the Assessment and Grading Policy 5030NumericValueLetterGradeQuality Points*(before weighting)Description per Grading Policy 503098-100%A+4.3An “A” generally designates the status of a studentwho consistently demonstrates accurate and completeknowledge of content and competencies specified inthe course curriculum and applies that knowledge in avariety of settings.93-97%A4.090-92%A-3.787-89%B+3.3A “B” generally designates the status of a student whodemonstrates knowledge of content and competenciesspecified in the course curriculum with someimprovement needed in accuracy and/or consistencyin performance and applying that knowledge in avariety of settings.83-86%B3.080-82%B-2.777-79%C+2.3A “C” generally designates the status of a student whodemonstrates knowledge of basic content andcompetencies specified in the course curriculum butrequires additional practice and instructionalexperiences to acquire skills necessary to apply thatknowledge in a variety of settings.73-76%C2.070-72%C-1.767-69%D+1.3A “D” generally designates the status of a student whoneeds significant practice and instructionalinterventions to acquire the knowledge of basiccontent and competencies specified in the coursecurriculum necessary to apply that knowledge in avariety of settings.63-66%D1.060-62%D-0.70-59%F0.0An “F” generally designates the status of a studentwho has not demonstrated the basic knowledge ofcontent and/or competencies specified in the coursecurriculum and requires additional practice andinstructional interventions in order to succeed.* Quality points are assigned to grades in order to calculate the GPA. Weight is also added forHonors/AP/Dual Enrollments courses. Honors classes receive a .5 point additional weight value and APcourses and dual-enrollment courses receive a 1 point additional weight value.Honor SocietiesMembership is an honor and privilege bestowed on students who demonstrate exemplaryqualities of scholarship, leadership, character, and service. The school staff will make efforts torecognize this honor through written communications to parents and through announcements.A breach of school policies and academic dishonesty of any type may result in removal from thehonor societies.30

STUDENT ACADEMIC RECOGNITIONEfforts will be made to recognize students for academic accomplishments, outstandingattendance, improvement, positive attitudes, character and citizenship, volunteerism, andleadership. Among the established recognition opportunities are the following:Academic Letters — are given to students who have an average GPA of 4.0 or higher for theacademic year.Volunteer Letters — Students can earn an activity letter by completing 100 hours ofcommunity service during high school. Students will receive an Activity letter and a pin forearning 150 hours of community service. Please see Career Center Specialist to learn how to addvolunteer hours in SchooLinks.ACADEMIC HONOR CODEFreedom High School exemplifies and upholds a community built on mutual trust, respect, andhonesty that is central to the very nature of learning. As members of this community, allstudents are expected to act with honor and integrity.The work of a student reflects directly on their own character. When submitting any assignment,the expectation is that the student submits their own work. The student is expected to upholdthe integrity of their work by not allowing another student to copy and submit their work underfalse pretenses.Honor Code CriteriaAbiding by the Honor Code requires that each student do the following:● Request or provide only authorized assistance on any assignment.● Complete assignments independently with the understanding that completing formativework helps students succeed on summative assessments.● Protect the integrity of the work by not allowing other students to copy assignments.● Prepare for summative assessments and only use authorized study aids during tests.● Uphold the validity of assessments by not sharing information about quizzes or testswith peers who will be taking the assessment at a later time/date.● Give proper credit to the ideas, opinions, or work of others incorporated into thestudent’s work.● Make every effort to stay current with assignments when absent. Students areresponsible for completing any missed work in a timely fashion.31

Consequences for Honor Code ViolationsHonor Code Violations are cumulative through the year, therefore it is important that they arereported to the student’s AP in a referral form.1st Offense:The Teacher Will:● Speak with the student about the concern and allow students an alternative assessmentto be completed within 6 consecutive school days.● Notify the parent by phone and explain the alternative assessment and due date.● Notify the Assistant Principal by writing a referral, which can be obtained from the MainOffice. This is important because this is a cumulative offense and can result indisciplinary action, and/or impact future honor society acceptance and currentmembership in these societies..2nd Offense:The Teacher Will:● Speak with the student about the concern and allow students an alternative assessmentto be completed within 6 consecutive school days.● Notify the parent by phone and explain the alternative assessment and due date.● Notify the Assistant Principal by writing a referral. The administrator and studentsupport team will have a parent and student conference.● Discipline consequences include removal from honor societies.32

STUDENT SUPPORTSACADEMIC SUPPORTSStudents can get academic help from teachers during the class, however they can also contactthe teacher directly and arrange a time to meet outside of class too. However, if the student doesnot need to meet with the teacher, and still require academic help then they can use the followacademic supports:Academic Support Center (ASC)Students can get academic help from subject-specific peer tutors at the Academic SupportCenter in room 305 during their study hall. Students can ‘walk-in’ to the ASC if their study hallteachers create an approved e-Hall pass for the student.After School Academic SupportThere is also academic support after school with teachers and peer tutors on Tuesdays andThursdays, from 4:18 pm to 5:15pm. There are late buses available on these days. In addition,there is academic support Saturday mornings from 9:30am-11:00am. Parents and students willreceive notification when this service starts.Credit RecoveryCredit Recovery is an opportunity for students who are failing courses to recover informationthat they missed and to show competency of course content. Students work to move from a F(59% or below) to a D-(60%).Study HallStudy Hall allows study hall teachers an opportunity to connect with students, review studentgrades, and help students get the academic support that they need. Other teachers can alsorequest to see students and work with them during their study hall time by sending an E-hallpass. Students can request to go to the Academic Support Center for academic help, or library atthis time.33

SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL SUPPORTPositive Behavior Interventions and Systems (PBIS) CommitteeA systems approach for establishing a safe and supportive learning environment to promotesocial, behavioral, and academic success for all students and for developing a common vision,language, and practices used consistently across school to: Improve School Climate, Teach andReinforce Expectations, Decrease Office Referrals and Suspensions, Strengthen Relationships,and Increase Positive Behavior, Academic Achievement, and Equitable Learning Experiences.The PBIS team, composed of student leaders, teachers, student support staff, andadministrators. We meet to identify ways to teach our school core values, areas in need ofsupport or intervention, and maintain a recognition system for both students and staff.At Freedom High School, our core values are:● Empathy and Compassion● Embracing diversity and inclusion● Perseverance● Trustworthiness● AccountabilityOur motto is, ‘Where There is Unity, There is Freedom.’Unified Mental Health Team (UMHT)The Unified Mental Health Team (UMHT) at Freedom High School is responsible for providinga continuum of prevention and intervention supports and services to address the social,emotional, and behavioral needs of students and to remove barriers to learning in the schoolenvironment. The UMHT utilizes a multi-tiered, team-based approach to provide educationaland professional development, support prevention-based efforts, and respond to student mentalhealth needs using evidence-based interventions. The UMHT is comprised of our schoolcounselors, administrators, school nurse, school psychologist, school social worker, and studentassistance specialist who meet monthly to discuss the delivery and evaluation of mental healthprevention programs and intervention supports at our school. If you are interested in learningmore, please reach out to Suzanne Goldbecker, School Psychologist.AdvisoryAdvisory is time (25 minutes) set aside twice a week for our students to positively interact with asmall group of their grade-level peers and one adult advisor. Advisories occur on Tuesdays and34

Fridays after the first block of the day. During Tuesday Advisories, teachers will implementadvisory lessons. On Fridays, there will be games, grade level challenges, and wellness activities.The advisory group stays the same for all four years of the student’s high school career. Its goalis to help students to form meaningful connections with their peer advisory groups and a trustedadult, creating an open environment for students to speak freely. There are also student leaderscalled ‘Freedom Ambassadors’ who are specifically assigned to Freshman advisories, they helpget conversations started, act as a role model, and offer a peer perspective.Clubs, and ActivitiesClubs and activities serve a vital role in getting students engaged and connected. Here is a linkto all the clubs at Freedom High School. There are also student leadership roles that studentscan apply for during the school year, such as Freedom Ambassadors which run school-wideinitiatives and advisory lessons. As well as, PEER (Positive Experience in Educationalrelationships) students, who are trained to be peer-mentors to other students. For furtherquestions and updates, please contact Tim Willmot, the Student Activities and EngagementCoordinator.35

ATTENDANCEThe Virginia compulsory attendance law requires that every child who will have reached the ageof five years on or before September 30 of the school year and has not reached the age of 18 shallregularly attend school unless exempt by law or excused by the School Board. Regularattendance and promptness are expected in all classes in order to teach valuable life skills. Astudent should understand that excessive absences, whether excused or unexcused, maydrastically affect the class grade. The attendance secretary will make every effort to informparents of a student’s absence. The school must have correct home, work, and cell phonenumbers for both parents/guardians. If telephone numbers change, please contact the school tomake the necessary changes or make changes in ParentVue. For the specific LCPS attendancepolicy, please refer to LCPS School Board Policy #8120 on the LCPS website.ABSENCESExcused AbsencesThere are circumstances that may prevent a student’s attendance in school. Absences that maybe classified as excused are the following:● Personal illness● Death in the family● Medical or dental appointments● Court appearances● Religious holidays● Trips and activities that enhance or extend the student’s education, when approved inadvance by the principalMake Up Work Due to AbsencesWhenever a student has an excused absence, a reasonable amount of time consistent with thelength of the absence will be given to make up the work. The student will work with his/herteacher to complete the missed assignments.36

REPORTING ABSENCESHow to Report AbsencesOption 1: ParentVue AttendanceLCPS schools use ParentVue as our primary tool for families to communicate student absences,tardies, and early dismissals to our school. You will find the Report Attendance option in boththe mobile app and web version. Note that this function only reports attendance to the frontoffice - teachers will not see the notes submitted through this process.Additionally, parents can opt-in or opt-out from receiving push notifications and emails forattendance.● Push Notifications: enable using the ParentVUE app on your mobile device. You willreceive notifications for both period and daily attendance.● Emails: enable using either the ParentVUE web portal or with the ParentVUE app. Youwill receive emails for period attendance only.A student's absence can only be reported by their parent/guardian in ParentVUE or on theattendance line. Students do not have access to this attendance feature in StudentVUE andcannot excuse their own absences. Any absence not confirmed by a parent/legal guardian will beconsidered unexcused. Click here for Information on how to use ParentVue to report absences.Parents/guardians can use ParentVue up to 30 days after the absence to report their child’sabsence.Option 2: Attendance LineThe second way is to leave a voicemail on the attendance line at 703-957-4309. Include thefollowing in your call:● Student name (slowly spell name when calling)● Student ID#● Parent/Legal Guardian Name● Date(s) of Absence(s)● Reason for Absence(s)*Please do not leave a phone message for an early dismissal for your studentEarly Dismissal Reporting and Procedure● Please use the “Report Attendance” button and select “Report Dismissal” in ParentVue.The time of dismissal must be included in the note section.● All early dismissal requests require a 1-hour processing time.● You may also send in a handwritten note with the student and have them turn it into theattendance office before 9:45 a.m.● If you need a dismissal within one hour, parents need to come into the building with agovernment-issued ID card to sign out their student.● For student safety, we cannot accept phone calls for early dismissals.● All students need to enter and exit through the main front doors.37

Pre-Arranged AbsencesParents are strongly discouraged to plan vacations during the school year, because nothing is agood substitute to in-person learning. Those students who leave school for an extended timetake the risk of having their absence affect their grade negatively. Teachers are not expected tohelp make up work for absences due to a vacation. However, there are times when a studentmust leave school for more than five consecutive days. In this case, students must complete aPre-Arranged Absence Form. The student will pick up the form from the Attendance Officeand obtain the signatures of each teacher and meet with the school principal prior to returningthe form to the Attendance Office. The teacher’s signature only signifies that the teacher is awareof the absence. It does not mean that the teacher will allow the student to make up all themissed work. Teachers sign the form only to acknowledge that they are aware of the absence.The student will then meet with the principal at least 15 days before their absence.Apps to Assist Students with Tardy Check-ins and Early Dismissals.It is strongly suggested that students download the following apps on their smartphone for thefollowing reasons:● StudentVue App. - This will help facilitate tardy check in and early dismissal sign out.● E-hall pass - E-hall pass is the preferred method by which students can leave class forany reason. For early dismissal, the student will receive an E-hall pass from theAttendance Office once the parent/guardian completes the process above. The studentneeds to show this pass to their teacher from their mobile device and/or Chromebookbefore they are dismissed from class. The student then needs to check out at theattendance office, and then exit through the main front doors.*Please have the student sign up for text notifications in their student profile within their E-hallpass account to be alerted when a pass is assigned to them.UNEXCUSED ABSENCES AND TRUANCYUnexcused Absences and TruancyLoudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) implements attendance reporting practices that complywith the information and reporting requirements for report cards and performance indicators ofthe Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and the Virginia Compulsory Attendance Law 22.1-254.The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has provided directives for the reporting ofstudent absences from school.These requirements apply only to unexcused absences, and truancy:● At five unexcused absences, the principal or administrative designee is required to havedirect contact with parent(s) and develop an attendance improvement plan. Dependingon the situation, medical documentation may be required for each absence.● At ten unexcused absences, the principal or administrative designee is required toschedule and hold an in-person attendance conference with parent(s) and student. Theconference consisting of a multi-disciplinary team, must be held regardless of whether38

the parent approves of the conference. The multidisciplinary team will continue tomonitor student’s attendance and communicate with the attendance officer.The principal or administrative designee shall consult with the school social worker todetermine appropriate team members for the multidisciplinary team. Team membersmay include school counselor, school psychologist, student assistance specialist,attendance officer, parent liaison, school nurse, private providers, etc.● If the student accumulates additional unexcused absences and the attendance plan andconference were completed, the principal or administrative designee may make a formalreferral to the attendance officer.● The attendance officer will schedule a conference with the student and the student’sparents/guardians. In addition, the attendance officer may consult with the Juvenile andDomestic Relations Court regarding possible judicial interventions.Consequences for Leaving Class Without Permission (Student is still on campus)● Two weeks of hallway restriction* for the specific class that the student truanted from.Parents will be notified.Consequences for Leaving Campus Without Permission (Student left campus)● 1st Offense: One hour of detention and two weeks of hallway restriction. Parents will benotified.● 2nd Offense: One hour of detention, two weeks of hallway restriction, and 2 weeks ofhallway escort** in consultation with the SSO. Parents will be notified.● 3rd+ Offense: The administrative team will meet to discuss and determine theappropriate consequence and support. Parents will be notified.*Hallway restriction - students need an escort to leave the classroom during class time. Theydo not need an escort in between classes.**Hallway escort - the student requires escort during lesson time and from bell to bell tomove from class to class.EARLY RELEASEEarly Release for Senior StudentsSeniors who have met various state and school board criteria can apply for early release at theend of their junior year. Once their status has been changed and they are granted early release,they may leave school early. If an early release student is assigned to In-School Restriction, theyare expected to remain in school until 4:18 p.m. Students on early release are to leave schoolgrounds immediately after their last class through the main doors unless they have priorapproval from the principal. During SOL testing or other occasions that require revisedschedules which result in a later dismissal, students with early release must make appropriatearrangements so that they can attend classes that meet after the time originally designated forearly release.39

Avoiding the Revocation of Early ReleaseStudents are reminded that early release is a privilege that may be revoked for various reasonsThe purpose of revoking a student’s early release is to be able to give them the in-personacademic support that they need. In order to maintain this privilege, students must:● Have passed all SOL tests required for graduation● Maintain a C average in courses required for graduation● Have not committed any rules infractions that would have resulted in In-SchoolRestriction or Out-of-School SuspensionSenior grades are checked at the end of every quarter. If a student does not meet therequirements for early release, then it is revoked for the following quarter. Students will havethe opportunity to earn back their early release if they meet the requirements by interim time.Example:● End of each quarter● All grades and behavior infractions for senior students are checked.● Administration will notify the students who did not meet the requirements forearly release to let them know that their early release has been revoked, and thestudent will be placed in a study hall. Their parents will be contacted at this point.● Interim time● Grades and behavior infractions are checked for students who lost the privilege ofearly release at quarter time.● Students who have now met the requirements for early release, such as improvedtheir grades and/or behavior can earn back their early release.● Administration will notify the student and their parent/s if the early release isregained.● End of the quarter● All grades and behavior infractions for seniors students are checked again andthe above procedures are followed.40

TARDIESHow to Report Late Arrivals to SchoolA parent can do this one of two ways:1. Log into ParentVUE. You will be prompted to the page with your child’s photo on it. Tothe right of their photo, click on “Report Absence.” This will take you to a screen whereyou can report if your student will be tardy. If reporting a tardy, please specify time ofarrival in the notes section in ParentVue. You can also upload any medicaldocumentation by taking a photo of it with your mobile device.2. Or, a parent can call the attendance line at (703) 957-4309. Please include the followinginformation in your call:● Student’s name (please spell the entire name slowly)● Student ID#● Student’s grade● Parent/guardian’s name● Date of tardy● Reason for tardy● Time of arrivalTardies and After school ActivitiesTo participate in an evening activity, students must arrive at school by 9:45 a.m. and remain allday unless they have prior approval by the principal. Failure to be in school by 9:45 a.m. andremaining in school all day will result in not being able to practice, play, or participate in allafter-school activities. If the student shows up after 9:45 a.m. due to a doctor/dentalappointment, parents need to use ParentVUE to report their student’s tardiness. Parents cantake a photo of the doctor note with a mobile device and upload it into ParentVUE under“Report Absence” or the student can bring the medical note to school A student who wishes toparticipate in extra-curricular activities MUST be a full-time Freedom High School student.Unexcused Tardy to School Per QuarterLate arrival to school or to class encourages the formation of undesirable personal habits, hurtsthe morale of students who are on time, reflects a negative attitude towards the class/school,creates disruptive problems in the hallways, and disrupts the instructional process for theschool. For all these reasons, tardiness is not acceptable.Students are considered tardy to school if they arrive after 9:30 a.m. Please note that thefollowing reasons for coming late to school will NOT be excused: oversleeping, power outages,car trouble, traffic, and missing the bus. A student who is late to school must bring a note from aparent/guardian to excuse the tardy. The parent/guardian may also call the attendance line at(703) 957-4309 or use ParentVue to inform the school of the late arrival. Parents/guardians mayonly excuse three tardies to school per quarter.41

Consequences for Unexcused Tardies to SchoolNOTE: Attendance and discipline consequences are subject to change as needed to ensurecontinued compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.1st -3rd tardies per quarter- Can be excused by parent and will be tracked by Attendance Office4th tardy per quarter- Referral to SSA to develop a plan with parent and administrator5th+ tardy per quarter- Referral to Administration to review the previous plan and issue disciplinary actionThe consequences for tardies do not accumulate from quarter to quarter as they reset after eachquarter.Unexcused Tardy after 10 a.m.When a student is late to school after 10 a.m. and it is unexcused, the Assistant Principal will benotified to meet with the student and the parent will be contacted.Unexcused Tardies to the classroomStudents are expected to be in the classroom when the bell rings, teachers may issue warningsand call home when students are habitually late to class. If tardiness to class becomes chronic,teachers will refer to the student’s administrator for disciplinary consequences.The consequences for tardies do not accumulate from quarter to quarter. They reset after eachquarter.42

DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCESSafe HarborAccording to the Student Code of Conduct on the LCPS website:When a student discovers they accidentally or inadvertently brought a weapon onto schoolproperty, the provision of “safe harbor” allows the student to immediately report this to ateacher or administrator and not receive consequences if the weapon has not yet been seen by ateacher, administrator, other school employee, or by another student.Disciplinary ConsequencesDiscipline in the school is essential for having an environment in which all students may learn.Freedom High School students are expected to behave in a manner which allows them to receivemaximum benefits from the school and which does not interfere with the education of otherstudents. Disciplinary consequences are based on circumstances unique to each individualincident of inappropriate behavior and will be dependent upon such factors as:● the severity of the incident.● the student’s attitude which includes the student’s sense of ownership of the behavior(accepts responsibility or shifts blame) and willingness to change.● the student’s discipline record.The following is a list of consequences given by the administration for disciplinary infractions.In addition, students may be excluded from extra-curricular activities for violations ofdisciplinary policies.Morning Detention 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Students must report to the front office no later than 7:55 a.m. They will be supervised by a staffmember. Transportation to school will be the student’s responsibility.Afternoon Detention 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.Students must report to the front office no later than 4:30 p.m. They will be supervised by a staffmember. Late buses are available on specific days.In-School Restriction 9:30 a.m. — 4:18 p.m.In-School Restriction (ISR) is an assignment to a self-contained classroom for disciplinaryreasons. Students could be assigned for several days in this structured, supervised, isolatedclassroom. They are expected to complete and turn in all class assignments to the ISR supervisorbefore leaving the last ISR session. Students may also participate in community service projectsaround the school. Those who are assigned multiple days may be asked to participate in arestorative practice session to discuss and work on personal behavior. ISR will also apply tostudents attending Academies of Loudoun and senior students who have Early Release. Studentsassigned to ISR may not participate in before or after school activities.Short-Term Suspension from SchoolSchool Board Policy 8220 — Students can be suspended out of school from one to ten days bythe administration for serious or habitual offenses. During the period of suspension, studentsare neither permitted on any LCPS school grounds, nor are they allowed to participate in or43

attend extracurricular activities. A reinstatement conference with the student, parent/guardian,and an administrator may be required before returning from a suspension. Failure of all partiesto attend could result in the suspended student not being allowed to re-enter school. Studentswho are suspended have the opportunity to complete all assignments. The student is responsiblefor turning in all previously assigned work as arranged by the teacher. The student will workwith the teacher to make up any assessments missed.Long-term Suspension from SchoolWhen in the judgment of the school principal a student’s continued pattern of behavior or anysingle act, or set of acts, warrants such a recommendation, a student may be suspended fromschool for 11 to 45 school days.Students are not permitted on any LCPS school grounds, nor are they allowed to participate inor attend extracurricular activities.Extended Long-Term SuspensionA long-term suspension may extend beyond the 45-school day period but shall not exceed 364calendar days if (i) the offense is one described in Virginia Code §§ 22.1-277.07 or 22.1-277.08 orinvolves serious bodily injury or (ii) the School Board or Division Superintendent or theSuperintendent’s designee finds that aggravating circumstances exist as defined by VDOE,when:a. A student engaged in misconduct which caused serious harm (including but notlimited to physical, emotional, and psychological harm) to another person(s) or posed a crediblethreat of serious harm to another person(s), as determined by a threat assessment; orb. A student’s presence in the school poses an ongoing and unreasonable risk to thesafety of the school, its students, staff, others in the school orc. A student engaged in a serious offense that is: (i) Persistent (repeated similarbehaviors are documented on the student’s disciplinary record), and (ii) Unresponsive totargeted interventions as documented through an established intervention process.Nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit the School Board from permitting or requiringstudent suspension pursuant to this section to attend an alternative education program providedby the School Board for the term of the suspension.Involuntary TransferStudents may be removed from one school and assigned to another for adjustment purposes.This usually occurs after other consequences have failed to correct behavior or in cases deemedappropriate by the principal, who makes a recommendation to the superintendent, and/or thesuperintendent’s designee.ExpulsionExpulsion is the removal, for a minimum of one year, from all Loudoun County Public Schools.It is based on the recommendation of the principal to the superintendent and is approved by theSchool Board. This is the most severe disciplinary action and denies access to school facilities,programs, and activities.44

EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENT BEHAVIOR(listed in alphabetical order)All LCPS policies, regulations, and rules apply to students when they are:1. present at any LCPS property2. participating in or attending any school sponsored activity, regardless of the location,including to and from an event3. going to or returning from school whether or not the student is walking, waiting for orriding a school bus, or is in a personal vehicle or any other mode of transportation4. involved in conduct regardless of whether it took place off school property or at aschool-sponsored event that disrupts school operationsStudents are expected to conduct themselves appropriately at all times. They should know thateverything they do at or away from school reflects on all of us. If you represent Freedom HighSchool as a participant or spectator, you are accountable for your actions. In addition, you areheld accountable for your actions from the time you leave home until you return home(including bus stops). Under Virginia law, certain illegal behaviors in the community,particularly if they result in criminal charges, can affect your status as a student. Any violation ofpolicies may result in such disciplinary action as detention, in-school suspension, communityservice, or out-of-school suspension as determined by the administration and based on SchoolBoard policy and the exact nature of each violation.Audio and Video RecordingsAudio and video recording of students and staff without their consent is strictly prohibited. Thismeans, students cannot take a photo or video of another student or member of staff in school orat school events without their consent. Going against this rule will result in disciplinaryconsequences.Avoiding Discipline ReferralsIf you have a disagreement with a teacher during a class, follow the teacher’s direction butarrange to speak with him/her privately after class to voice your concerns in a respectfulmanner. Use the resources of your counselor or an assistant principal if you are experiencing acommunication or behavioral problem.Bullying: School Board Policy 8250Loudoun County Public Schools is committed to a school environment that is free from bullyingand cyberbullying. Please click here for detailed information about bullying.45

Use of Cell Phones and other Non-instructional TechnologyFreedom High School is fully committed to providing all students an exemplary education. Ourmission and vision both center on creating the best learning environment for our students andcommunity. In this mission we recognize the importance of implementing and using technologyin preparing students for 21st century jobs and thinking skills. When used appropriately andwith explicit permission from the teacher, cell phones can be powerful technological tools forresearching, engaging with a lesson, providing feedback to peers, participating in classroomsurveys, and more.However, the growing dependence on cell phones is impacting teaching and learning inclassrooms. The excessive use of cell phones for person reasons results in students missingimportant instruction, distracting classmates, and disregarding teacher requests or expectations.All FHS teachers have the support of the administration to determine when and how cellphones will be used in their respective classrooms. Our school wide expectation is that studentshonor and respect the electronics guidelines outlined by each of their teachers. When studentsmake the decision to not honor the expectations of their teachers, the school will initiate aprogressive system of disciplinary action to address the behavior.Accordingly, we want to make everyone aware of the following:Should teachers have difficulty with students in regards to cell phones or other forms oftechnology the following steps will be followed:1st offense: Warning to student2nd offense: Warning to student and phone call or email home3rd offense: Referral to administration for disciplinary actionAdditional offenses: Referral to administration for disciplinary actionThese violations will reset at the semester for each student. Students will be allowed to use theirphones during lunch and study halls.DefianceStudents are expected to conduct themselves in a civil, respectful manner. School administrationwill not tolerate defiance of any sort, particularly if a staff member directs a student to do whatcan be reasonably expected. Defiant acts can result in a range of consequences.Deficiencies (including laptop deficiencies)A deficiency is money owed to Freedom High School, for textbooks/materials damaged or lost,athletic fees and equipment, etc. All deficiencies must be cleared in order to participate orpurchase tickets to homecoming, or prom. Seniors must clear all deficiencies prior to receivingtheir cap and gown for the graduation ceremony.All ninth graders will be issued a Chromebook and a charger during their Health and PE class in46

the first week of school. Upperclass students keep the Chromebooks which were issued to themas 9th graders, and return the Chromebooks when they leave Freedom High School or at the endof their senior year. Students are responsible for damages to the Chromebooks, and will becharged for unreturned Chromebooks.Distribution of Literature or Other MaterialsAnyone wishing to distribute literature, information, or other materials on school property mustfirst obtain permission from the principal or the material may be confiscated. This includesdistribution of materials through cell phones.Fights, Assaults and ThreatsIntentionally striking, shoving, throwing objects at, blocking the passage of, or otherwisephysically intimidating a student, staff member, or visitor are actions which are strictlyforbidden. This includes written and verbal bullying or harassment through electronic media.Those involved will face disciplinary action, including suspension.Food DeliveryDue to reasons of safety and security, students and parents may not order food from arestaurant and have it delivered to the school during school hours. Students and parents whohave food delivered from a restaurant or by a friend, may pick up the food from the front officeat the end of the school day.GamblingAny event, action, or statement, which relies on chance for personal gain or the monetaryadvantage of one participant at the expense of others is prohibited.GangsUnder no circumstances are students permitted to reflect any behaviors which are tied to gangactivity. This pertains to dress, signs, headgear (including headbands), and tattoos. The schoolworks closely with the School Resource Officer, and School Safety and Security Specialistregarding trends and activities.Graduation CeremonyGraduation ceremony for the Class of 2024 will be held on June 15, 2024 at 7 pm. Studentsare reminded that attendance at the ceremony is a privilege which may be revoked. Deficiencies,discipline, and absence at the mandatory rehearsal could be some of the reasons for revocationof this privilege.Horseplay and HazingHorseplay, such as slap fighting, will not be tolerated. No type of hazing, such as “birthdaypunches,” or “flagging” is allowed. Disciplinary consequences up to and including suspensionwill be administered.Inappropriate Literature, Pictures and DrawingsStudents are not permitted to draw, possess or distribute literature, pictures, or drawings whichare potentially disruptive to the educational process or which can be considered obscene orthreatening to the security of the school. A range of consequences will be considered.47

Initiating a DisruptionStudents are not to create, attempt to create, or cause others to create public violence ordisorder. There can be disciplinary action associated with causing disruption to the school dayand learning.Lunch Time ExpectationsStudents may eat lunch in the following areas: cafeteria, and patio. In addition, senior studentscan use the courtyard. All students are asked not to eat in the academic wings, including FineArts and PE, during this time.Lying, Stealing, and ForgeryTaking or attempting to take another person’s property through force, intimidation, threats, orother means is punishable by suspension. Students who knowingly buy or receive, or aid inconcealing stolen goods, are equally responsible. Theft of property will result in suspension andpossible referral to the superintendent and law enforcement.Minute of Silence, Policy 5020The Commonwealth of Virginia, per § 22.1-203 of the Code of Virginia, requires that eachschool provides time for a Minute of Silence during the school day. Students shall not disrupt ordistract the rights of others during the Minute of Silence.Obscenity, Profanity, Racial/Ethnic Slurs, and Demeaning CommentsCursing, abusive language, and remarks which can be considered racist or against someone’sreligion, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, handicap, or abilities will not be tolerated. Awide range of disciplinary and restorative practice options will be considered.Sex-based Discrimination and Harassment; School Board Policy 8030Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) is committed to maintaining an equitable, safe, andinclusive learning environment for students free from all forms of harassment anddiscrimination. Please click here for detailed information about sex-based discrimination andharassment.Student DancesDance permission forms must be signed by students and their parents/guardians in order toattend. All school rules apply during school dances. Prior to purchasing tickets, students mustpay all deficiencies and check the specific rules regarding eligibility for themselves and theirguests. Guests must complete a permission form, follow all our school rules, be at least asophomore in high school for prom, and under 21 years old for both Homecoming and Promevents. The school administration has the right to deny any guest the right to enter a schoolevent. All guests must arrive and leave with their student host.Participation in Extracurricular ActivitiesAll students who participate in extracurricular activities including athletics, fine arts, and clubs,must be enrolled at Freedom High School as a full-time student.Public Display of Affection (PDA)Embracing, kissing, and sexual behaviors will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinaryactions including suspension from school.48

ThreatsFreedom High School will not tolerate any type of behavior that is threatening or intimidating innature, either in person or through electronic media. Under no circumstances should a studentmake threats, or implied threats, to or about someone. Students are expected to report threats toa counselor, administrator, security officer or other adult staff members. Depending on the typeof behavior, administrators can consider a range of consequences, including removal fromschool, legal action, and/or clinical evaluation.Refusal to Identify SelfAll students must, upon request, identify themselves to adults in the school building, on schoolgrounds, or at school-sponsored events. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action.RestroomE-hall passes are needed to go to the restroom. Only one person is allowed in a stall, and oneperson in the single user restroom. Restrooms are located throughout the building.VandalismStudents are expected to respect the school. Pranks are discouraged as they can go awry and leadto serious damage and/or injury. Defacing or destroying school property is extremely costly intime, money, and will result in consequences ranging from suspension to expulsion. In addition,students will face legal charges and financial restitution.Vending MachinesVending machines are provided for student use before and after school. The school is notresponsible for lost money. Students are not allowed to use vending machines in the teacherworkrooms at any time.VisitorsAll visitors to the school must report to the front desk in the main office and have a governmentissued ID to sign in and receive a visitor’s pass. Alumni are not permitted in the building duringschool hours without permission from an administrator. They need to wait in the main officeuntil they are escorted to the specific location.49

STUDENT SERVICESBusesStudents can find out their bus number and pick-up/drop-off location by logging intoStudentVue, and clicking on the ‘Student Info’ tab.Safety is the top priority. All students are expected to abide by the regulations governing theriding of school buses. Students who misbehave on buses may be denied the privilege of beingtransported on buses. Students are under the authority of the school while going to and fromschool, and are subject to all school rules during this time. Students may not ride a bus to whichthey are not assigned to, without permission from school personnel.Lunch - How to register and pay for lunch.The meal payment system is called TITAN Family Portal, it allows students to put money on anaccount to purchase school meals or other food items in our school cafeterias.This is how you register:1. Register: Register at family.titank12.com by clicking on “Sign up today!”2. Confirm Email: Confirm your email address by clicking on the email verification linksent to your email address.3. Sign In: Now you can sign in at family.titank12.com using your email and password.Any balance left on a student’s cafeteria account from the old system will transfer to the newsystem automatically. Within this new meal payment system, you will be able to transfer fundsbetween student accounts. (For example, you can transfer funds from one sibling’s account toanother.)Allergy and food intolerance information will transfer to the new system. If there is any changeto your student’s allergy and/or food intolerance information, you should enter it intoParentVue and contact the school nurse or health office specialist at your student’s school.If your student(s) is not returning for the new school year, please allocate the remaining fundsbalance on their meal payment account. You can donate or request a refund for their remainingbalance by completing this form.If you have any questions, please review our FAQs (FAQs in Spanish) or reach out to our SchoolNutrition Services office at CAFE@LCPS.org.LockersLockers will be assigned only to those students who request one. All staff and students canrequest a locker for their personal belongings. If staff or students would like a locker, pleaseclick here to complete the 2023-2024 Locker Request Form. Assistant Principal, CaSandraAlexander, will assign a locker and provide the locker number and combination as soon aspossible. For further information, please contact CaSandra Alexander.Lost & FoundIf you have lost an item, check with the main office before or after school. Remember the schooldoes not assume responsibility for items brought into the building from outside. Here is the linkto the Virtual Lost and Found.50

Parking Permits and Senior Parking Spot PaintingIt is a privilege for students to drive to school and park on campus. Loudoun County PublicSchools provides bus transportation for all students who live within the Freedom High Schoolbus attendance zone. Students are highly encouraged to use the transportation service providedby the school division.However, those who choose to drive to school may apply for a parking permit, issued byFreedom High School. Multiple family vehicles can be included on the application. A parkingpermit is only issued to a student for the vehicle(s) registered on the application and may not beloaned or transferred to anyone else. The ownership of the parking pass is always retained by theschool in the event a student withdraws from school, or has his/her parking privilegessuspended or revoked.This year LCPS will not be charging students for parking spots on school grounds. However, forsafety reasons, students will be asked to apply for a spot and will receive a parking permit..While the parking spaces are free of charge, seniors may paint their spot for a fee of $25.00.Only painted spots will be assigned and designated to a specific student. All unpainted spots inthe student parking lot will be open parking for anyone with a permit on a first come, firstserved basis..Parking Expectations1. Students are to report a change of license plate number or registered vehicles to theSafety & Security office.2. Parking permits must be displayed in the vehicle on the rear view mirror with thenumber facing out at all times when parked on campus.3. Permits are non-transferable and may only be used by the person to whom they areissued, and for only vehicles that are properly registered. Misuse of the permit will resultin it being suspended or revoked.4. Students may park in any location available to students only and that is NOT painted.Seniors who have been approved to paint their parking space will have an assignedspace. There is no parking in any location other than their designated parking areas.5. Cars parked on school property are subject to search under School Board policy 8-2.6. Traffic laws, school regulation, and normal safety procedures must be observed at alltimes. Maximum speed limit of school grounds: 10 MPH7. Lost permits must be replaced if the student wishes to continue to drive to school.(Safety and Security Officer must approve replacement.)If you have any questions, please contact Kathryn Koscinski, AP, kathryn.koscinski@lcps.org,and Susan Outten, Lead SSO, susan.outten@lcps.org.Payments made to schoolAll payments to the school can be done on the school website accessing the link (OnlinePayment System) provided on the main Freedom High School website. The school will acceptpayments with credit cards and checks through the School Cash Online (SCO) payment portal.Payments will not be accepted at the main office. There is no longer a service charge to payonline.51

School StoreThe school store known to students as, ‘The Perch’ is open daily from 8:55— 9:25 a.m. The Perchaccepts cash, credit/debit cards or checks made payable to Freedom High School. The Perchoffers a variety of merchandise including spirit wear, spirit gear, and snacks. Profits from thestore are used to replenish store merchandise, provide scholarships and make charitabledonations.TextbooksTextbooks are furnished free of charge by LCPS. Students are responsible for books that are lostor damaged and will be charged accordingly. Students must print their names in ink in all booksthat are issued to them. Parents and students may request a textbook for use at home.52

SCHOOL BOARD POLICIES(In alphabetical order)Students are expected to abide by all school board policies whenever on school property orparticipating in a school related activity. A copy of the Student Rights and Responsibilities andspecial notices with complete detailed policies will be available on the LCPS website as additionsto this policy manual. Parents/Guardians are expected to review these thoroughly with theirstudents especially those pertaining to substance abuse and weapons where violations mayresult in expulsion from school. Information regarding school board policies can be found on theLCPS website www.lcps.orgAlcohol, Drug, Tobacco and Electronic Cigarettes; Policy 8240The purpose of this policy is to promote and maintain a safe and healthy environment for theschool community. The Loudoun County School Board is committed to supporting students toabstain from the possession, use, distribution, and/or sale of alcohol, illicit and unauthorizeddrugs, tobacco and e-cigarettes. Staff will intervene when a violation is detected, takeappropriate corrective disciplinary action, and provide educational support for all students.A. Prohibited Substances and Usage:Students are strictly prohibited from the following while under school authority, on a school bus,at a school bus stop, on school property, or at a school sponsored activity on or away from schoolproperty.1. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of any drug orchemical substance that affects the brain or nervous system (including anabolic steroids)and any controlled substances (pill, capsule, tablet or any form which purports to act likea controlled substance) or any imitation or look-alike drug, controlled substance ormarijuana.2. The use or possession of alcohol (ethyl or grain alcohol obtained by distillation of anyfermented liquor, shall include synthetic ethyl alcohol, spirits that includes brandy, rum,whiskey, vodka, scotch, gin, or any one or more, product or liquids shall include coughsyrup, mouthwash, extracts and any other such products or material, whether solid orliquid, which contain alcohol) but shall not include methyl alcohol and alcoholcompletely denatured in accordance with formulas approved by the United StatesGovernment.3. Being under the influence of drugs (stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, inhalants,opiates) including but not limited to narcotic drugs, amphetamines, barbiturates,marijuana, and any anabolic steroid, synthetic drug, or any contraband or controlledsubstance.4. Being under the influence of alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, every liquid or solid,patented or not, containing alcohol spirits), or intoxicants of any kind.5. The sale, delivery or intent to sell or deliver alcohol or controlled substances.6. The sale, distribution or intent to sell or distribute look-alike controlled substances orsynthetic drugs (substances that are represented or perceived as an illegal drug ormarijuana regardless of the true nature of the substance) regardless of whether theyproduce similar subjective effects to illegal drugs.7. The use, possession or distribution of drug-related paraphernalia.53

Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco and Electronic Cigarettes; Regulation 8240A. Alcohol Violations1. The first violation of Policy 8240 by a student shall result in a four (4) day placement inISS (In-School Suspension) and three (3) days assigned to the Substance Use EducationClass sponsored by Loudoun County Public Schools. Students committing the firstviolation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action as may be deemeddevelopmentally appropriate.2. A second violation of this policy by a student shall result in a seven (7) day placement inISS and assignment to the Substance Use Education Class for three (3) days. Studentscommitting the second violation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action asmay be deemed developmentally appropriate.3. Any further violation of this policy may result in a recommendation by the principal forlong-term suspension or expulsion from school by the Division Superintendent.4. All students who are required to attend the Substance Use Education Class shall berequired to undergo an assessment by the school-based substance use expert. Ifrecommended by the evaluator, and with the consent of the student’s parent, the studentmay be required to participate in a treatment program.B. Drug Violations1. The first violation of Policy 8240 by a student, except for distribution or selling, shallresult in a four (4) day placement in ISS (In-School Suspension) and three (3) daysassigned to the Substance Use Education Class sponsored by Loudoun County PublicSchools.2. A second violation of Policy 8240 by a student seven (7) day placement in ISS andassignment to the Substance Use Education Class for three (3) days. Studentscommitting the second violation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action asmay be deemed developmentally appropriate.3. A first violation for distribution or sale of the substances identified in the policy, shallresult in a student being suspended out-of-school for four (4) days, three (3) days in theISS and three (3) days assigned to the Substance Use Education Class. At that time, thestudent's case will be evaluated to determine whether the student should:a. Return to the home school.b. Be temporarily placed in a distance learning environment not to exceed 45 days.c. Be considered for enrollment in the Alternative Education Program at The NorthStar School.4. Students who otherwise violate the provisions of Policy 8240 may be subject to otherdisciplinary measures, including long-term suspension or expulsion, and a referral to theDivision Superintendent for other action, which shall include attendance at theSubstance Use Education Class.5. All students who violate this policy are required to undergo an assessment for drug useby the school-based substance use expert. If recommended by the evaluator and with theconsent of the student’s parent, the student may be required to participate in a treatmentprogram.54

6. Actions taken in accordance with Sections C and D below involving suspensions of tendays or less are reviewable under Policy 8220 (Student Suspension From School). Theappeal procedures set forth in Policies 8230 (Appeals and Hearings - Student Discipline)and 8220 (Student Suspension From School) shall apply to disciplinary assignments tothe Substance Use Education Class. A disciplinary action in the form of long-termsuspension or expulsion taken under this policy is also subject to the appeal proceduresset forth in Policy 8230.C. Tobacco and Electronic Cigarette Violations1. The first violation involving use or possession of tobacco products and/or electroniccigarettes (vape pens) shall result in assignment in-school suspension for three (3) dayswhere they will receive the tobacco products education program.2. The second violation involving use or possession of tobacco products and or/electroniccigarettes (vape pens) by a student shall result in assignment to In-School suspension forfive (5) days and referral to the Student Assistant Specialist who will assess and provideschool-based support.3. The third violation involving use or possession of tobacco products and/or electroniccigarettes (vape pens) shall result in the student being placed in ISS for seven (7) daysand three (3) days assigned to the Substance Use Education Class sponsored by LoudounCounty Public Schools.D. Substance Use Education Program.The program will be comprised of:1.Class instruction equivalent to home-based instruction in a self-contained settingseparate from the Alternative Education Program. A disciplinary assignment to the SubstanceUse Education Class under this policy is not a placement in an Alternative Education Programunder Policy §8-40.a. First violations of Policy 8240 with alcohol or drugs by a student (not tobaccoproducts and/or e-cigarettes), will result in four (4) day placement in ISS(In-School Suspension) and an additional three (3) days assigned to theSubstance Use Education Class.b. Second violations of Policy 8240 with alcohol or drugs by a student (not tobaccoproducts and/or e-cigarettes) will result in a student being placed in ISS for seven(7) days and three (3) days assigned to the Substance Use Education Class.2. Education about drug use, civil laws, and school consequences, including expulsionfrom school for a first and a second alcohol/drug violation and for a thirdtobacco/electronic cigarette violation.3. Upon completion of the Substance Use Education Class, recommendation, which mayinclude follow-up services and/or group or individual counseling provided by a StudentAssistance Specialist, or a referral for a community based substance use assessment.55

E. Special Circumstances.Given the facts of a particular case, special circumstances may exist indicating that disciplinaryaction other than suspension and/or expulsion may be appropriate and may be recommendedby the principal. The principal may recommend alternate disciplinary action if a studentdemonstrates intent to harm himself or herself. The Superintendent or the Superintendent’sdesignee shall conduct a preliminary review of all cases under this policy to determine ifdisciplinary action other than the policy required by regulation or recommended by theprincipal is appropriate.Assessment and Grading: Policy 5030This policy and accompanying K-12 Assessment and Grading Common Guidelines for LoudounCounty Public Schools (LCPS) staff are based on the belief that assessment of student learning isan essential component of the teaching and learning process and assessment has the potential tomotivate students and improve learning. Additionally, this policy seeks to establish a consistentapproach to assessment and grading in all Loudoun County Public Schools.This is the link to the school’s grading and assessment practice which is based on the LCPSgrading and assessment policy. For the specific LCPS grading policy, please refer to LCPS SchoolBoard Policy #5030 and #5030 Reg A on the LCPS website.B. Secondary Grading Procedures.Students in grades 6-12 are assessed using letter and/or numeric grades based on theirperformance in relation to specific state standards. Students receive grades that are averagedinto a numerical score to determine a letter grade that is reported at the end of each quarter. Astudent’s final grade in a course is determined by the average of the four quarter grades.C. Philosophy for Grades K-12.Assessment and grading of student progress are based on the premise that students have diversecapabilities and individual patterns of progress and learning. Teachers and principals areresponsible for developing instructional plans based on frequent and varied assessments of thestudents’ needs, abilities, and progress. Grades shall not reflect behavior but rather, a student’smastery of content or competencies of the curriculum. Assessment and grading activities should:1. Communicate academic achievement and social-emotional growth on a regular basisto students and parents.2. Reflect individual differences and rates of learning.3. Address the unique needs of special population students including, but not limited to,gifted, English Learners (EL), and students with disabilities.4. Ensure IEP and 504 accommodations are followed in relation to assessment andgrading.5. Make adjustments for transitional periods in students’ lives including elementaryschool to middle school, and middle school to high school.6. Reflect expectations for student learning.7. Provide for student self-evaluation.56

8. Encourage students to take an active role in setting goals and assessing progresstoward an identifiable and measurable set of standards that are in alignment with thestated learning objectives.9. Foster student reflection, agency, and ownership through a growth mindset towardlearning.10. Inform all participants about the purpose, philosophy, and procedures of the gradingand reporting system.11. Be aligned with a school-wide system of interventions and supports for teachers andstudents.12. Ensure grades reflect student learning, through multiple efforts which includereassessment opportunities, and student growth within a grade level or subject.13. Ensure Dual Enrollment (DE) courses in high schools meet their unique grading andwithdrawal policies as specified by the accrediting college or university.14. Promote consistency in grading and assessment through instructional staff adheringto common grading expectations set forth in LCPS K-12 Assessment and GradingGuidelines.D. Definitions for Grades K-121. Grading. Grading is the process of assigning value to a students’ mastery of content orcompetencies. Grades communicate a measure of a student’s mastery of content orcompetencies as compared to state standards and local curricula.2. Assessment. Assessment is the process of identifying the extent of learning that hasoccurred during or after the learning process. It determines whether the learner hasreached the target objective(9s). It measures the degree of mastery of content orcompetencies (critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creating, andcontributing). Assessment is used to inform next steps in teaching and learning.Assessments may be formative or summative.3. Formative Assessment. Formative assessment occurs during the learning process andis designed to guide next steps toward mastery. The goal of formative assessment is tomonitor learning, provide feedback, and set goals to move learning forward. Informationgathered during the formative assessment is used to inform next steps in instruction.Formative assessments will not be used to determine final grades.4. Summative Assessment. Summative assessment occurs at the end of a learning cycleand is designed to determine a student’s level of mastery of specified content orcompetencies. Summative assessment is 10% or more of the quarter grade.E. Homework.When assigned, homework will be a natural extension of the school day where homework ispractice for reinforcement and application of previously learned concepts. Any homework that isassigned to students must be something the students are able to complete successfully on theirown in a reasonable amount of time. If homework is to be used successfully, teachers, students,and parent/guardians must assume certain responsibilities to include the following:57

1. Teacher Responsibilitiesa. Teachers will assign homework with specific directions and consider individualdifferences by tailoring assignments to match the instructional level of thestudent, learning style, readiness, primary languages, and home support systems.b. Teachers will use homework as an opportunity for teachers to learn more aboutthe instructional needs of each student and use it to provide feedback for growthand learningc. Teachers should generally consider homework as practice and/or applicationwith an opportunity for feedback and therefore is considered a formativeassessment.d. Middle and high school teachers may assign reports and projects that arecompleted outside of the classroom. These may be considered summativeassessments and may count up to 10% of the quarter grade.e. Teachers will base all homework on one or more of the following:(i) To prepare for, relate to, build upon, reinforce and/or enhancelearning in the classroom.(ii) To practice skills that have been introduced and developed in class.(iii) To relate understanding and skills developed at school to everydaylife.(iv) To enrich the school program by pursuing activities that can beshared with classmates the following day.(v) To provide for independent study or projects(vi) To complete unfinished classroom assignments or projects.f. Teachers will consider the resources available to all students when assigninghomework.2. Student Responsibilitiesa. Students will view homework as an opportunity to practice their skills and willcomplete all homework assignments by their due date.b. Students will request additional help and/or clarification of assignments fromthe teacher in order to complete assignments to the best of their ability and in atimely manner.c. Students will obtain, and complete assignments missed due to being absent.3. Parent/Guardian Responsibilitiesa. Parents/Guardians are not expected to provide instructional support to theirstudent in order for the student to complete homework assignments.b. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to support the completion of homework byproviding a learning environment conducive to completing homework such as aquiet location, necessary resources, and the expectation that homework will becompleted.c. Parents/Guardians should encourage their student to seek help from theteacher when homework assignments are too difficult to complete, orexpectations are unclear.58

4. Homework Time Allocationsa. Elementary. When assigning homework, the teacher will consider eachstudent’s ability to work independently. The amount of homework that a teacherassigns will vary from day-to-day. As a general rule, students in grades 1-3 shouldspend no more than thirty (30) minutes daily doing homework; children ingrades 4-5 should spend no more than sixty (60) minutes doing homework.b. Middle and High School. Homework assignments vary by subject matter andreflect the expectations and level of the course. Honors level courses may requiremore time and effort. Dual Enrollment and Advanced Placement (AP) courses arecollege level courses that include extensive reading, writing, and critical thinkingand generally require additional time.F. Dishonesty in Assigned Homework.Students are expected to perform honestly on schoolwork and tests. Any student who turns inwork that is not their own regardless of the source, or who assists or gives their work to anotherstudent will receive a consequence aligned with the LCPS disciplinary guidelines as described inthe Student Rights and Responsibilities Guide and LCPS Policy 8215, In-School DisciplinaryMeasures. If dishonesty is determined, students must complete an alternative summativeassessment to demonstrate learning. An academic recovery plan will be created for the assessedcontent standards and competencies, involving any of the following parties: Counselor,administrator, teacher, parent, and student. Any academic recovery plan may include aparent-teacher conference, retaking the assessment, an alternative assessment, a lowering of thegrade, or receiving a failing grade.1. Student Responsibilities. The following actions are prohibited:a. Cheating on a test or assigned work by giving, receiving, offering and/orsoliciting information.b. Plagiarizing by copying the language, structure, idea, and/or thoughts ofanother.c. Falsifying statements on any assigned schoolwork, tests, or other schooldocuments.2. Teacher Responsibilities. The following actions should be taken:a. Clearly define expectations regarding dishonesty in assigned work.b. Reinforce behavioral expectations regarding dishonesty in assigned work.c. Provide feedback throughout the learning process or the assignment timeline.d. Take reasonable actions to maintain assessment and test security.59

G. Best Practices for Grades K-12.Best practices for assessment and grading in LCPS are outlined in the K-12 Assessment andGrading Common Guidelines. These practices include the following:1. Reassessment. Reassessment encourages a growth mindset in students and allowsthem to demonstrate mastery. Teachers will provide opportunity for reassessment ofmajor summative assessments to students who score below an 80%, and remediationmay be required prior to reassessment. The teacher should provide the opportunity forreassessment within two weeks’ time, whenever possible, and give clear communicationon when those opportunities are reasonably available (i.e., time, dates, and location). Thestudent should make the effort to coordinate with the teacher to schedule anyreassessment. The student will be given the higher grade between the originalassessment and the reassessment, up to an 80%. Teachers, in consultation with thestudent support teams and parents, will provide students who demonstrate a pattern ofrepeated reassessments with an appropriate intervention, including limiting futureopportunities for reassessment.2. Late Work. It is important that teachers accept late work to document learning.Reasonable and consistent guidelines for accepting late work must be set andcommunicated to students. Deadlines may be required for submitting late work.a. If a student has made a reasonable effort to complete an assessment, a grade ofno lower than 50% will be assigned in order to provide the student anopportunity to recover from the grade. It is important that students feel there isan opportunity for success if they work hard.b. Teachers, in consultation with student support teams and parents, will providestudents who demonstrate a pattern of repeated late or missing work with anappropriate intervention, including assigning a grade of less than 50%.H. Assessment/Grading and Quarter Grades for Grades 6-12.An assessment and grading system must be designed to motivate students and promote agrowth mindset. Students who receive a grade below 50% often feel they have no chance ofrecovery and give upon achieving success in a course. For this reason, LCPS supports a floor of50% when assessing student achievement in quarter and final grades. In high school courses,the floor of 50% does not apply to the final quarter of a course.1. Teachers, in consultation with student support teams and parents, will providestudents who demonstrate a pattern of participation in the learning process with anappropriate intervention, including assigning a quarter or final grade less than 50%2. Summative assessments may be administered in courses to evaluate student learning,skill attainment, and achievement at the conclusion of a defined instructional period;typically, at the end of a unit, course, semester, program, or school year.a. Standardized Summative Assessments. To enhance fair grading practices forstudents, standardization of major summative assessments is critical within aschool. Grade level and subject area teams should establish common,standardized summative assessments whenever possible.b. There are no formal midterm or final grades.60

3. An individual summative assessment will be limited to no more than 25% of thequarter grade. Each summative assessment will have at least one opportunity forformative feedback.4. Extra credit may be permitted if connected to course content and cumulatively doesnot exceed 3% of the quarter grade. Extra credit must be available to all students. I.Grading Scales for Middle and High School Students. Since grades are reported in orderto communicate student performance, it is important that a standard system be used. Allgrades given to middle and high school students will reflect the alphabetic and numericvalues indicated below, and this scale is to be used in reporting grades on report cardsand other scholastic records.K-12 Assessment and Grading Common Guidelines Regulation: 5030-A-REGLoudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) philosophy regarding assessment and grading is basedon teachers’ collective belief of a growth mindset. Students master concepts and skills indifferent ways and at different rates. Teachers are responsible for developing instructional plansbased on frequent and varied assessments. Grades shall not reflect behavior, but rather, astudent’s mastery of content or competencies of the curriculum. The Elementary GradingProcedures document and the Elementary Report Card manual outline the assessment andgrading practices for grades K-5.A. Formative Assessment.Formative Assessment is assessment for learning that occurs during the learning process and isdesigned to guide next steps toward mastery. The goal of formative assessments is to monitorlearning, provide feedback to students, and set goals to move learning forward. Informationgathered during formative assessment is used to inform next steps in instruction. Formativeassessments will not be used to determine final grades.1. Formative feedback informs the learner, teacher, and parents/guardians aboutprogress toward mastery of the concept or skill.2. Formative assessments must precede each summative assessment. Teachers mustinclude formative assessments in their lesson planning and provide students feedbackabout their progress towards mastery prior to a summative assessment. Formativeassessments are not included in the overall quarter grade (see Section E).3. All feedback should be specific, timely, clear, consistent, and actionable.4. Formative assessment data must be used by teachers to identify areas of studentstrength and student growth. Teachers will use this data to adjust instructionaccordingly.61

B. Summative Assessment.Summative Assessment is assessment of learning that occurs at the end of a learning cycle and isdesigned to determine a student’s level of mastery of specified content or competencies.Summative assessments become the source of information for grading.1. Individual major summative assessments should range between 10-25% of the quartergrade.2. A summative assessment less than 10% of the quarter grade is not considered major,and therefore, not required to be reassessed.3. If a student has made reasonable effort (concerted attempt to complete theassessment) to complete a summative assessment, a grade of no lower than 50% will beassigned in order to provide the student an opportunity to recover from the grade.4. Teachers, in consultation with student support teams and parents, will providestudents who demonstrate a pattern of repeated late or missing work an appropriateintervention, including assigning a grade of less than 50%.5. Grade level and curriculum teams should create common summative assessments thatare aligned to a common unit of standards.C. Gradebook and Grading Timeline.Teachers must include the following categories in their gradebook: formal formativeassessments (not for grading), minor summative assessments, major summative assessments,and extra credit (optional).1. If predetermined by the Collaborative Learning Team (CLT) or department, thegradebook may include extra credit (cannot exceed 3% of the quarter grade) and must bebased on accuracy and content.2. Individual Assessment - Students who make reasonable effort to complete asummative assessment cannot receive lower than a 50%.3. Individual Assessment - Teachers, in consultation with student support teams andparents, will provide students who demonstrate a pattern of repeated late or missingwork with an appropriate intervention, including assigning a grade less than a 50%.Interventions must be documented in the gradebook.4. Quarter Grades - Students must receive at least 50% for quarters 1, 2, & 3 in all highschool courses and all quarters in middle school courses. In high school courses, the floorof 50% does not apply to the final quarter of a course. For example, the floor does notapply to the final quarter of a semester course.5. There are no cumulative midterm or final exams.6. Teachers must record in the gradebook and provide feedback to students on allassessments within 6 consecutive school days from the date the assignment is collected.Grades for complex middle school or high school summative assessments/assignments,such as research papers, that require analysis or detailed feedback, shall be entered intothe gradebook within 10 consecutive school days from the date the assignment iscollected.62

D. Reassessments.Reassessments encourage a growth mindset in students and allow them to demonstrate mastery.1. Teachers will provide one opportunity for reassessment of all major summativeassessments to students who score below an 80%. Remediation may be required prior toreassessment.2. Teachers cannot average the scores from the original assessment and thereassessment. The reassessment grade must not exceed 80%. A note must be added tothe gradebook documenting the original score and the retake score.3. Reassessments will be scheduled by the teacher and must take place within ten (10)consecutive school days after the student receives feedback from the original assessmentand remediation.4. The format of the reassessment does not need to mirror the format of the originalassessment.5. The reassessment may be limited to the standards not mastered by the student.6. Teachers should utilize the resources available to them such as their school’smulti-tiered systems of support, when encouraging students to take advantage of thereassessment process.7. Reassessment practices must be consistent school-wide.E. Homework.Homework is a natural extension of the school day and is considered to be practice. Thus, it isused for formative feedback.1. In limited cases, teachers may assign long-term assignments such as reports andprojects that are completed outside the classroom, and they may be consideredsummative assessments and are therefore graded. When used as a summativeassessment, the total of homework assignments cannot cumulatively equal more than10% of the final quarter grade.2. If homework is to be used as a summative assessment, at least one formal formativeassessment must precede this grade and it must be graded for accuracy not completion.3. Any homework assigned to students must be something the students are able tocomplete successfully on their own in a reasonable amount of time.a. For elementary students in grades 1-3, students should spend no more than 30minutes daily on homework. For students in grades 4- 5, students should spend no morethan sixty (60) minutes daily on homework.b. For middle and high school students, the time students spend on homeworkwill reflect the expectations and level of the course. For example, Honors, DualEnrollment, and Advanced Placement courses will require more time.F. Late Work.63

It is important that teachers accept late work to document learning and inform instruction.Reasonable and consistent guidelines for accepting late work must be set and communicated tostudents. Flexible deadlines may be required for submitting late work.1. If a student has made a reasonable effort to complete any summative assessment, agrade of no lower than 50% will be assigned in order to provide the student anopportunity to recover from the grade. It is important that students feel there is anopportunity for students to succeed and learn.2. Teachers, in consultation with student support teams and parents, will providestudents who demonstrate a pattern of repeated late or missing work with anappropriate intervention, including assigning a grade less than 50%.G. Academic Dishonesty.Students are expected to perform honestly on schoolwork and tests.1. If dishonesty is determined, students must complete an alternative summativeassessment to demonstrate their learning within 6 consecutive school days after thestudent receives the feedback.2. Teachers working with one or more of the following parties (parents, student,counselor, or administrator) will create an academic Recovery Plan. It may include aparent-teacher conference, retaking the assessment, an alternative assessment, alowering of the grade, or receiving a failing grade.3. Teachers should clearly define expectations regarding collaborative and independentwork, reinforce behavioral expectations regarding dishonesty in assigned work, providefeedback throughout the learning process or the assignment timeline, and takereasonable action to maintain assessment and test security.H. Extra Credit.Extra Credit is a CLT or department choice and must be connected to the course contentcurriculum and specific learning goals.1. If extra credit is assigned by a CLT or department, it must be available to all students.2. Extra credit cannot cumulatively exceed 3% of the quarter grade and should becontent-related and assessed for accuracy.I. Dual Enrollment.Dual Enrollment (DE) Courses must meet the unique grading, assessment, and withdrawalpolicies as specified by the accrediting college or university.1. Teachers and counselors should inform parents and students of the accrediting collegeor university policies before and during the course selection process.2. Teachers of DE courses must provide a course syllabus with assessment, grading, andwithdrawal guidelines to all students and their parents at the beginning of each semester.3. As a reminder, Advanced Placement (AP) courses are LCPS courses and must complywith LCPS assessment and grading policy and guidelines.64

J. Expectations.Common expectations for secondary workload.1. No assignment or homework will be due or assigned on Saturday or Sunday, or onstudent holidays.2. Summative assessments should take a student no more than 60 minutes.Bullying: Policy 8250Loudoun County Public Schools is committed to a school environment that is free from bullyingand cyberbullying.A. Definition of bullying.● Bullying is the systematic and chronic infliction of physical hurt or psychological distresson another person. The Code of Virginia § 22.1-276.01 defines bullying as “any aggressiveand unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim;involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors andvictim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includescyberbullying. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, arguments orpeer conflict.”● Cyberbullying refers to bullying by a student(s) towards another through electroniccommunication. Cyberbullying includes such things as sending mean, vulgar orthreatening messages or images; posting sensitive private information about anotherperson; pretending to be someone else in order to humiliate another person; anddefamatory online social media websites.B. Characteristics of bullying.● Bullying involves physical and emotional behaviors that are intentional, controlling, andhurtful and create a harassing, intimidating, hostile or otherwise offensive educationalenvironment.● Bullying is any unwanted and repeated written, verbal, cyber, or physical behavior,including any threatening, insulting, or dehumanizing gesture, by a student or adult, thatis severe or pervasive enough to create feelings of intimidation, alienation, or humiliationand which unreasonably interferes with the school performance or participation ofothers.● Bullying behavior may be communicated openly and directly, or subtly and indirectly, inperson or by other methods of communication, to include technology.● Bullying behavior is a subtype of the broader concept of peer aggression andvictimization; therefore, bullying prevention approaches must focus broadly on reducingall forms of aggressions and victimization, regardless of the intent, frequency, and powerdifferential.● Bullying behavior may include, but is not limited to, targeting a student’s actual orperceived personal characteristics including race, color, national origin, religion, sex,pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity,physical or mental ability or disability, age, genetic information, socioeconomic status,political affiliation, or on a student’s association with a person or group with one or more65

of these actual or perceived characteristics.C. Reporting Bullying Behavior.Any student who believes they have been the target of bullying/cyberbullying, or any otherperson in the school community who observes or receives notice that a student has or may havebeen the target of bullying/cyberbullying, should immediately report the incident to aschool administrator, counselor or faculty/staff member. Staff members shall takesteps to prevent bullying and attempt to take developmentally appropriate steps to intervenewith bullying. When allegations of bullying are reported to the principal, or designee, he/sheshall investigate such allegations and/or incidents promptly.D. Parent Notification.The principal, or designee, shall attempt to promptly report any allegation of bullying, by oragainst a child, to the parent/guardian via telephone, personal conference, and/or in writing.The status of any investigation of an allegation or incident of bullying, as defined by this policy,shall be reported to the parent/guardian within five (5) school days or sooner. Notification mustbe consistent with the student privacy rights under the applicable provisions of the FamilyEducational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA). At any time during the investigation it hasbeen determined that criminal charges may be pursued against the perpetrator, all appropriatelocal law enforcement agencies should be notified.E. Positive Behavior/Education.1. Bullying prevention and intervention programming should include evidenced-based curricula,practices, and strategies. Incidents of bullying are to be reported and investigated as soon aspossible. Developmentally appropriate interventions with students accused of bullying, as wellas those identified as the victims, and resolutions of all complaints are essential to maintaining asafe learning environment. Records are to be kept and collected, and the data analyzed annually.2. A school administrator should be designated as the bullying prevention coordinator at eachschool to oversee the implementation of the division-wide program that includes the following:a. annual training for faculty, staff and students on how to prevent and identify bullying,how to report suspected bullying, and how to take developmentally appropriate steps tointervene with bullying;b. steps for receiving, reporting and investigating complaints;c. parent/guardian education;d. privacy and confidentiality for all involved individuals;e. notification of law enforcement when it is suspected a criminal offense may haveoccurred; and3. This policy should be prominently displayed on the division’s and individual school’swebsites.F. Staff and Administrative Response.66

Bullying violations under this policy are prohibited and constitute grounds for interventions toinclude but not limited to Restorative Practices and/or student discipline ranging from in-schooldisciplinary measures to involuntary transfer, short or long-term suspensions and/or expulsionunder school board policies. When investigating the allegation and/or incident, all of thesurrounding facts, circumstances, severity, and age/developmental factors should beconsidered.G. Monitoring.The principal and designated assistant principal(s) are responsible for implementing, enforcing,and monitoring this policyDress Code: Policy 8270Loudoun County Public Schools’ student dress code supports equitable educational access and iswritten in a manner that does not reinforce stereotypes and that does not reinforce or increasemarginalization or oppression of any group based on race, color, national origin, caste, religion,sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity,gender expression, marital status, disability, age, or genetic information. The student dress codesupports our goal of inspiring students to learn while leaving primary decisions around studentclothing and style to students and their parents or guardians. Our expectation is that parentsand guardians are responsible for ensuring student compliance with the school’s dress code, andstudents are responsible for knowing the student dress code and for complying during schoolhours and school activities.A. Values.Our values are:1. All students should be able to dress comfortably for school and engage in the educationalenvironment without fear of, or actual unnecessary discipline, or body shaming.2. A student's choice of clothing should not be blamed as a distraction to the learningenvironment, apart from specific violations of the dress code detailed in this policy.3. Student dress code enforcement should not result in unnecessary barriers to schoolattendance.4. School staff should be trained and able to use student/body-positive language to explain thecode and to address code violations.5. Teachers should focus on teaching without the additional and often uncomfortable burden ofdress code enforcement.6. Reasons for conflict and inconsistent and/or inequitable discipline should be minimizedwhenever possible.B. Appropriate Student Attire.1. Students must wear:a. a shirt;b. a bottom: pants, sweatpants, shorts, skirt, dress, or leggings;c. shoes; andd. clothing required by specialized courses or activities, such as sports uniforms or safetygear. Students must dress appropriately for gym class, wearing clothing and footwearthat permits for full and safe participation in all activities.67

2. Students may wear:a. hats, including religious headwear;b. hoodie sweatshirts (hoods must be lowered during instructional time);c. fitted pants, including leggings, yoga pants, and “skinny jeans”;d. pajama pants and pajama shirts;e. ripped jeans, as long as underwear is not exposed;f. shirts with straps;g. athletic attire;h. clothing with commercial or athletic logos; andi. any religiously or ethnically specific or significant clothing, head covering, or hairstyle,including hijabs, yarmulkes, headwraps, braids, locs, and cornrows.3. Clothing and accessories in violation of dress code are those that:a. depict or promote illegal, violent, or lewd conduct;b. depict or promote the unlawful possession or use of weapons, alcohol, tobacco, drugs,drug paraphernalia, or other controlled substances;c. expose private parts;d. expose underwear (however, visible waistbands or straps on undergarments worn underother clothing are not a violation);e. are helmets or headgear that obscures the face (except as a religious observance or ifmedically necessary);f. are bathing suits;g. include language, slogans, symbols, icons, or images that are reasonably foreseeable tocause a material and substantial disruption or invade the rights of others and thatamount to hate speech, are highly offensive or threatening to others, or impede ordistract from the Board’s mission of instilling values necessary or appropriate for politecivil discourse or political expression in a school context, social tolerance,nondiscrimination, self-awareness and sensitivity to the feeling of others. For example,displays of certain symbols such as Confederate or Swastika images are perceived bymany as racially hostile, are associated with racial prejudice, have been a source forconflict among students, and could result in hatred, ill will, and emotional trauma thatare all inappropriate in the school context.C. Dress Code Enforcement and Responsibilities1. Staff are responsible for communicating and equitably enforcing the division dress codeduring school hours and school-sponsored activities. To ensure effective and equitableenforcement of this dress code, school staff shall enforce the dress code consistently and in aviewpoint neutral manner using the requirements below. Discussion about dress code violationsshall be held privately and maintain the dignity of the student.a. Students will only be removed from spaces, hallways, or classrooms as a result of a dresscode violation as outlined above. Enforcement should provide options for reasonableremediation of the infraction that demonstrates respect and minimizes loss ofinstructional time.b. No student should be disproportionately affected by dress code enforcement because oftheir gender or any other protected class such as race, sex, gender identity, genderexpression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, cultural observance, householdincome, or body type/size.c. Enforcement must be reasonably discreet. Students should not be shamed or required toundress or display their body in front of others (students, parents, or staff) in school.68

“Shaming” includes, but is not limited to: kneeling or bending over to check attire fit;measuring straps or skirt length; asking students to account for their attire in theclassroom or in hallways in front of others; calling out students in spaces, in hallways, orin classrooms about perceived dress code violations in front of others; accusing studentsof “distracting” other students with their clothing.d. Enforcement may include disciplinary actions that are consistent with other disciplinepolicies and sufficiently escalatory to encourage compliance, however, violations of thedress code should generally be treated as minor infractions unless repeated or egregiousin nature (e.g. streaking, hate speech).2. Students are responsible for complying with the division dress code during school hours andschool sponsored activities. Students who feel they have been subject to discriminatoryenforcement of the dress code should contact the Office of School Administration.3. Parents or guardians are responsible for ensuring student compliance with the dress code.Parents or guardians of students requiring accommodation not otherwise covered in this policyshould contact the school principal or principal’s designee.Student Technology Acceptable Use: Policy 8650.The Loudoun County School Board provides technologies, including access to the internet, topromote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communication.The term technology includes hardware, software, data, communication lines and devices,terminals, printers, servers, mainframe and personal computers, the internet and other internalor external networks.Purpose. All use of the Division’s technology must be:(1) consistent with the educational or instructional mission or administrative function of theDivision as well as the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities and developmentallevels of students and/or research, or(2) for legitimate school business. Loudoun County Public Schools may provide students withaccess to online educational services and websites through contracts with educationalcompanies and vendors. Students may be provided with a username and password to accesseducational content on these websites. Use of the computer system is a privilege, not a right.Monitoring. Loudoun County Public Schools routinely monitors an individual’s usage of theDivision’s technology. The normal operation and maintenance of the school division’s technicalinfrastructure and services requires that usage and activity are monitored, data and electroniccommunications are routinely backed up, and programs or other devices are employed tomaintain the functionality, integrity, or security of the network infrastructure. Anycommunication or material using School Division technology, including electronic mail anddocuments created, stored, or shared from a user’s account, may be monitored, read, recorded,copied, seized, and/or provided to appropriate authorities by school officials without priornotice. Users shall have no right or expectation of privacy. None of the Division’s technologiesshall constitute a traditional, limited or designated public forum. Students shall not send,receive, view or download illegal materials.Content Filtering. The School Division selects and operates technology protection measures that69

monitors and filters or blocks Internet access for all devices connected to LCPS andLCPS-OPEN. The protections prevent access to the following:1. Child pornography;2. Obscenity; and,3. Material that the School Division deems to be harmful to students and material that isotherwise inappropriate for students.Bring Your Own Technology (BYOT). Personal technology devices are permitted at school andcan be used in instructional areas with permission from the teacher. Personal technology devicesare permitted to use the LCPS-OPEN wireless network only. Personal technology devices areprohibited from accessing the LCPS network (wired or wireless). All Personal Devices usedwithin school or at school functions must be free from anything that would violate the StudentRights and Responsibilities handbook or this policy including the use of a Virtual PrivateNetwork (VPN) to subvert the division’s protection measures.Signature Form. Each student and parent/guardian of each student shall sign the form attachedto the Student Rights and Responsibilities in the Student Handbook or online viaParentVue/StudentVue. By doing so, the student and parent/guardian acknowledge to acceptthe terms of this policy and the failure of any student to follow the terms of this policy oraccompanying regulation may result in loss of computer or network system privileges,disciplinary action as defined in the Student Rights and Responsibilities handbook, SchoolBoard policy, and/or law.Limited Liability. The Loudoun County School Board is not responsible for any information thatmay be lost, damaged or unavailable when using the computer system or for any informationretrieved via the Internet. Furthermore, the School Board will not be responsible for anyunauthorized charges or fees resulting from access to the computer or network system.Title IX, Sex-Based Discrimination, Sexual Harassment: Policy 8035Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) is committed to maintaining an equitable, safe, andinclusive learning environment for students free from all forms of harassment anddiscrimination.1. Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 is a federal law that states: "Noperson in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in,be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education programor activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” The U.S. Department of Education haspublished implementing regulations that include, but are not limited to, the need for thedesignation of a Title IX Coordinator and for a specific complaint and grievanceprocedure meeting federal requirements regarding sexual harassment. Loudoun CountyPublic Schools will establish regulations that address grievance procedures foraddressing allegations that violate Title IX.2. Sex-based discrimination includes, but is not limited to discrimination inprograms, athletics, extra-curricular activities, facilities, course offerings, and funding.3. Sexual harassment means conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of thefollowing:70

a. The provision of aid, benefit, or service for a student on an individual’sparticipation in unwelcome sexual conduct;b. Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe,pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal accessto LCPS’s education program or activity; or(i) Sexual assault” as defined in 20 U.S.C. § 1092(f)(6)(A)(v)(ii) “Dating violence” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(10)(iii) “Domestic violence” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(8)(iv) “Stalking” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(30)This link will provide you updated definitions of sexual assault, dating violence, domesticviolence and stalking.If you need to talk to someone about discrimination or harassment, please do nothesitate to reach out to your counselor or administrator.Students, parents, employees, or applicants who wish to file a Title IX complaint should contactthe Title IX Coordinator for Loudoun County Public Schools:Christopher Moy, Division Title IX Coordinator21000 Education CourtAshburn, VA 20148(571) 252-1548TitleIXCoordinator@lcps.orgMarco Pereira, Deputy Title IX Coordinator21000 Education CourtAshburn, VA 20148(571) 252-1328Marco.Pereira@lcps.orgDanyelle ReeseTitle IX Deputy Coordinator21000 Education CourtAshburn, VA 20148(571) 252-1865Dayelle.Reese@lcps.orgWeapons: Policy 8234Possession or use of a weapon, loaded or unloaded, operable or inoperable, by a student whileunder the control or supervision of the school’s staff, at a school-sponsored activity, or on schoolproperty is prohibited. This policy is applicable to students at all grade levels. The term"weapon" is intended to be construed broadly and includes any instrument or device which, byits design or use, is capable of causing injury, harm, or threat of injury or harm to the physicalwell-being of another person as largely defined within both federal and state law. For thepurposes of determining appropriate penalties for violations of this policy, weapons areclassified as either Category A or Category B, except under specified circumstances.A. Category A Weapons.1. Firearms, starter guns or any weapon that is designed or can be readily converted to71

expel a projectile by action of an explosion. Examples of firearms include any pistol,shotgun, rifle, or revolver;2. Pneumatic guns, including a paintball gun, BB or pellet gun, or air rifle that usepneumatic pressure to expel a projectile; and3. Explosive or incendiary devices, including those containing poison gas, acid or in theform of a grenade, rocket or bomb and any combination of parts either designed orintended for use in converting any device into any destructive device. “Destructivedevice” does not include any device that is not designed or redesigned for use as aweapon, or any device originally designed for use as a weapon and that is redesigned foruse as a signaling, pyrotechnic, line-throwing, safety, or other similar device.B. Category B Weapons.1. Any knife or other instrument or device that has a blade designed to cut or a pointdesigned to penetrate, including a dirk, Bowie knife, switchblade, folding knife,ballistic knife, or machete;2. Any gun or device designed to expel a projectile by any non-pneumatic or non-explosiveaction, including those using trigger, battery power or tension action. Examples includeslingshots, bows, nail guns and toy shooting devices;3. A stun weapon of any kind;4. Any club, baton, stick, flailing or thrown instrument or other similar device designed foruse as a weapon, such as a blackjack, spring stick, brass or metal knuckles, nunchahka(nun chuck or nunchaku), fighting chain, shurken, throwing star or oriental dart;5. Any chemical or chemical compound, including pepper spray, that produces an adverseeffect on the normal functions of the human body;6. Any instrument or device that is actually used intentionally to injure, harm, endanger orinduce fear in another person, including cap guns, foam-based guns, and other “toy” or“look-alike” weapons; and7. Any instrument or device, not included in Category A, which has as one of its designedpurposes to be used as a weapon to injure, harm, or endanger another person.C. Exceptions to Weapons Classification. The following weapon or weapons maybe exempted from those categorized above, depending on the appropriateness of theiruse and provided that such weapons are authorized by a school official:1. Those that are specifically a part of the school’s curriculum or activities or anyorganization authorized by the school to conduct its programs;2. Those tools, such as a knife, customarily used for food preparation or service and is beingused for such purpose; or3. Those used within the Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) program inconducting marksmanship training when such training is a normal element of suchprograms; such programs may include training in the use of pneumatic guns. Suchmarksmanship training shall occur only at a location or locations approved by theSuperintendent or Superintendent’s designee.D. Penalties for Violation.1. Category A Weapons Violation.Any student who violates this policy with respect to a Category A weapon shall be automaticallyrecommended for expulsion from Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) by the principal.Given the facts of a particular case special circumstances may exist indicating that disciplinaryaction other than suspension and/or expulsion may be appropriate and may be recommendedby the principal. The Superintendent or the Superintendent’s designee shall conduct a72

preliminary review of all cases under this policy to determine if disciplinary action otherthan suspension or expulsion is appropriate.2. Category B Weapons Violation.Any student who violates this policy with respect to a Category B weapon or any other terms ofthis policy may be subject to expulsion from LCPS, or to such lesser disciplinary action,including long-term suspension, as may be deemed appropriate by the Superintendent or theSuperintendent’s designee in accordance with Policy 8220, Student Suspension from School.3. Safe Harbor Provision. The accidental or inadvertent possession of a weapon by a student,either brought onto or found on school property or at a school-sponsored activity shall notconstitute a violation of this policy, provided the student immediately reports the same to ateacher or administrator upon discovery thereof by such student and before it is discovered orseen by school staff or by another student.4. Reporting to Law Enforcement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, there may be a requirementto report such possession to law enforcement officials as provided in state law.5. Right of Appeal. Certain disciplinary actions for violations of this policy are appealable to ormust be formally determined by a Committee of the School Board as provided in Policy 8220,Student Suspension from School.73

Back cover by Denize Hazrotti74