Mission Statement

The mission of the Copeland Academy-- in partnership with students, family, business, community and higher education--is to give students a new opportunity to succeed and to ensure that all students have the skills necessary to become responsible citizens regardless of social, racial, or cultural backgrounds.

Who Are We?

The Copeland Academy, located at the Ola H. Copeland Community Learning Center, is an alternative education program designed to provide educational interventions for students experiencing difficulties with academic, attendance, and/or behavioral issues in traditional school settings.

Program Description

Copeland Academy's educational program is designed to provide experiences which allow students to develop skills for the 21st century and beyond. The educational program, furthermore, is planned to include a variety of opportunities for students to increase their global awareness as well as awareness in civic literacy, health literacy, environmental literacy and business literacy.

Target Audience

Copeland Academy serves students in grades 6-12, who may range in age from 11-21 years old. Students are recommended for enrollment via principal, district hearing officer, parental request, court appointment, and the superintendent (as the board's designee).

School Day

Our school day starts at 9:00 am and ends at 3:30 pm. Doors open at 8:30 am and check in begins.

School Dress

•High school and middle school – dress khaki pants

•Middle school – navy blue polo style shirts

•Pants must be pulled up on the waist at all times

•High school – black polo style shirts

•Shirts must be tucked in at all times

•Belts must be worn- either black or brown belts that buckle

Other information about Dress Code

•Enclosed shoes only

•No sandals, flip-flops, boots (Uggs), slides or house slippers

•No jewelry

•Natural hair color only – No pink, blue, purple, green, red

•No hats or do-rags

•No basketball shorts under pants

•No bookbags or purses

•No makeup, combs or brushes

•No headbands

NO CELLPHONES

Orientation

The Hearing Officer will give you the information about our orientation. Orientation is held at Copeland Academy at 3:00 pm on Wednesday for virtual students and Thursday for in-person students.

In lieu of expulsion students are placed in the person program or virtual program.  This decision is made by Mr. Fuller or Ms. Sullivan for the virtual program.

Virtual Program

Edgenuity
The software for the virtual program is Edgenuity.  Student must complete 100% of the class to receive the credit for high school.  Middle school students will be grade by their work and participation on Edgenuity. 

Attendance
Students must login to Edgenuity each school day.  Attendance will be taken.  If the student has appointment, sick and etc.  parents will need to send excuse.  The district attendance policy is the same for the virtual program.

Middle School Grades
Middle school student grades will be put in Powerschool per quarter. If the students are not working and completing assignment 0 will be put into Powerschool and turn in for truancy. 

High School Grades
High school students grade will be put in Powerschool once the student has completed the course.  If the students are not working and completing assignment 0 will be put into Powerschool and turn in for truancy. 

Edgenuity Issue
Students can contact the following when they are locked out, ready for a test or other issues.

MaryBeth.Scruggs@cherokee1.org
Chere.Sullivan@cherokee1.org
Pam.Browing@cherokee1.org

Help Hours for the virtual program
9:00 am-3:00 pm
Please understand at times we will be in meetings, classrooms or duty.  Please e-mail all for fast respond.  Please understand if you work in the evening or weekend it maybe the next school day before things can be unlocked.

 Example of Student’s Edgenuity Progress

Copeland Academy Handbook

Copeland Academy

There is no alternative to EXCELLENCE!

 2024 - 2025

Student-Parent Handbook

 Ms. Chere Sullivan

Director

 243 Allison Drive

Gaffney, SC 29341

(864) 206-6992

Fax: (864) 487-1238

Cherokee County School District

Interim Superintendent

Dr. Thomas White

 Board of Trustees

Ms. Shanese Dawkins, Chairman

Mrs. Lynne Shackleford, Vice-Chairman

Mrs. Carol Gallman, Secretary

 Mr. Cody Cash

Mr. Clay Greer

Mr. DJ McBee

Mr. Johnny Sarratt, Jr.

Mrs. Crystal Shippy

Mr. Peter Wilkins

Secondary School Administration

Blacksburg Middle School, Ms. Miranda Griggs, Principal

Blacksburg High School, Mr. Michael J. Mullinax, Principal

Ewing Middle School, Dr. Alan Ruppe, Principal

Gaffney Middle School, Mr. Lyman Dawkins, Principal

Gaffney High School: Dr. Eric Blanton, Principal

 Institute of Innovation, Mr. Roy Hale, Director

Non-Discrimination Notice: The Cherokee County School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its program or activities. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies should be directed to:

Dr. David Smith, Director of Personnel

Cherokee County School District,

PO Box 460

Gaffney, SC 29342

Vision – Mission – Beliefs

Vision Statement

Our vision is to provide a nurturing environment, which fosters students’ academic, social, and emotional needs.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Copeland Academy is to provide a diverse and inclusive learning environment for at-risk students. 

 Belief Statements

·      We believe that children are always our first priority.

·      We believe that education is essential for the advancement of society.

·      We believe that every individual has equal value.

·      We believe that excellence is always worth the effort.

·      We believe that a safe environment is a basic human need essential for learning.

·      We believe that learning is a lifelong process.

·      We believe that the family is the foundation of society.

·      We believe that everyone can learn.

 Faculty Contact Information

Phone: 864-206-6992

Director -Chere Sullivan
chere.sullivan@cherokee1.org

Guidance Counselor-MaryBeth Scruggs
marybethscruggs@cherokee1.org

Secretary/ PowerSchool Secretary-Melissa Fowler
melissa.fowler@cherokee1.org

Middle School Math/Science-Beverly Hodge
beverly.hodge@cherokee1.org

Middle School Social Studies-Mr. Austin Duckett
Austin.Duckett@cherokee1.org

 Middle School English-Dr. Shamona Fernanders
shamona.fernaders@cherokee1.org

High School Math-Monicah Osoti
monic.osoti@cherokee1.org

High School Science-Michelle Walker
Michelle.walker@cherokee1.org

High School Social Studies-Mr. Thomas Benton
Tommy.Benton@cherokee1.org

 High School English-Bobby Rodgers
bobby.rodgers@cherokee1.org

Lab Technician & Edgenuity Lab-Pam Browning
pam.browning@cherokee1.org

Student Services-Laverne Smith
laverne.smith@cherokee1.org

Student Services-TBD 

Student Services Paraprofessional-TBD

Recovery Room &Transition Coach-Charles Ferguson
charles.ferguson@cherokee1.org

School Nurse-Phyllis Knighten
phyllis.knighten@cherokee1.org

Food Service-Beverly Logan
beverly.logan@cherokee1.org

Custodian-Phyllis Adams
phyllis.adams@cherokee1.org

Custodian-Ruthie Dawkins
Ruthie.dawkins@cherokee1.org

School Resource Officer-J W Owensby
JW.Owensby@cherokee1.org

High School Class Schedule

• Check-In/Breakfast: 8:30 AM – 8:55 AM

• Character Education/Edgenuity Lab:
  9:00 AM – 9:30 AM

• 1st Block: 9:30 AM – 10:40 AM

• 2nd Block: 10:45 AM – 11:55 PM

• Lunch: 12:00 PM – 12:40 PM

• Edgenuity Lab: 12:40 PM – 1:00 PM

• 3rd Block: 1:05 PM – 2:15 PM

• 4th Block: 2:20 PM – 3:30 PM

• Dismissal: 3:30 PM

Middle School Class Schedule

• Check-In/Breakfast: 8:30 AM – 8:55 AM

• Character Education: 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM

• 1st Period: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM

• 2nd Period: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

• Lunch: 11:30 AM – 12:10 PM

• 3rd Period: 12:10 PM – 1:10 PM

• Edgenuity Lab: 1:10 PM – 1:50 PM

• 4th Period: 1:50 PM – 2:40 PM

• Academic Enrichment: 2:40 PM – 3:30 PM

• Dismissal: 3:30 PM

What is alternative education?
“Alternative Education” is a program that exists to meet the needs of students that cannot be addressed in a traditional classroom setting but through the assignment of students to alternative classrooms, centers, or campuses designed to remediate performance, improve behavior, or provide an enhanced learning experience.  Alternative education programs do not include career or technical centers and departments.  The goals of the alternative learning environment are as follows:

·       Maintain a transition rate back into the regular classroom, or graduating at 70% or higher.

·       Maintain a student attendance rate of 85% or higher

·       Reach a rate of 50% or higher of students reading at or above grade level

·       Parental involvement in parent conferences, family forums, and targeted support and counseling services will be 50% or higher.

Academics
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS – Policy Reference IHF-R The South Carolina State Board of Education regulates the South Carolina State high school diploma. A state high school diploma from this district is based upon satisfactory completion of the number of units required by the state board and passage of the State HSAP.A student must earn 24 units of credit in state-approved courses for graduation.

The unit requirements are distributed as follows:

English/Language Arts 4

Mathematics 4

Science 3

U.S. History and Constitution 1

Economics .5

U.S. Government .5

Other social studies 1

PE or Junior ROTC 1

Computer Science (including keyboarding) 1

Foreign Language or Career and Technology Education 1

Electives 7

Total 24

 Please note that while the state requirement for graduation is one unit of foreign language, most colleges and universities require 2-3 units of the same foreign language. 

Requirements may be subject to change pursuant to State Department of Education directives.

 Statewide Uniform Grading Scale /Grading/Assessment Systems Policy Reference IKA

 The school will follow the statewide uniform grading scale as approved by the State Board of Education. This uniform grading scale and the system for calculating grade point averages (GPAs)and class rank will apply to all courses carrying Carnegie units, including units earned at the middle/high school level.

The uniform grading scale is as follows:

A 90 - 100

B 80 - 89

C 70 - 79

D 60 - 69

F 59 and below

All report cards and transcripts will use numerical grades for courses carrying Carnegie units.

ATTENDANCE POLICY
Reg. 43-274 requires school districts to adopt policies to define and list lawful and unlawful absences. Given the proven, positive results of regular school attendance on student performance and growth, parents–with the support of the school–should ensure and promote the daily attendance of their child(ren).

 Student Absences and Excuses Policy Reference- JH  Excused Lawful Absences.

• The student is ill and his/her attendance at school would endanger the student’s health or the health of others.

• There is a death in the immediate family. Immediate family includes father, mother, brother, sister, grandfather, grandmother, or resident of the same household.

• There is a recognized religious holiday of the student’s faith. Notification from the head of a church must be sent to the school before the absence.

• The student has a doctor, dentist, or orthodontist appointment and brings a note from the physician verifying the appointment.

• The student has a period of hospitalization or extended medical care by a physician.

• The student has a chronic illness, certified by a physician, that may cause him/her to be absent more than the lawful number of absences permitted by law. Such illness must be approved through the school.

• A senior may be allowed one college visit per semester with the prior approval of the school and with proper documentation from the college.

  Unexcused Unlawful Absences.

• The student is willfully absent from school without the knowledge of the parent/guardian.

• The student is absent from school without acceptable cause with the knowledge of the parent/guardian.

• An absence is not covered by a parent or doctor's excuse within three (3) days of the student's return to school.

• The student is absent for sickness for more than ten (10) cumulative days not covered by a doctor’s excuse.

 Attendance Excuses

·       If a student has to be absent from school, he/she must bring to the school a written excuse for the absence to be excused.  The excuse should be turned in during check-in in the mornings.  The excuse should be brought in on the first day that the student can return to school. Lawful absences that can be excused with documentation.

·       All requests for a lawful absence must be submitted within five (5) school days from the day of absence to be considered

·       Parent’s notes will be accepted but limited to five (5) days per semester. Thereafter, doctors’ notes will be required.

·       Absences with no documentation will be considered unlawful.

·       Students who exceed attendance limits (5 days unlawful per semester—10 unlawful absences yearly) must justify/document extenuating circumstances to the principal to receive credit.  Credit will not be granted unless the Board of Trustees or its designee grants an exception.

 Missing/Incomplete Assignments

 Students are responsible for completing assignments missed due to absences. Incomplete work due to extended absences (3 or more consecutive days) must be made up within 10 school days after the student returns. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the teacher about making up work and completing the work within the allowed 10 days. Any work not made up within this period becomes a failing grade. If the student missed no new material or was absent only on the day of a test, he or she should make up this work on the day he or she returns.

 Truancy Policy Reference AR JH-R
The State Board of Education recognizes that truancy is primarily an educational issue and that all reasonable, educationally sound, corrective actions should be undertaken by the school district prior to resorting to the juvenile justice system. A child ages 6 – 17 years meets the definition of a truant when the child has three consecutive unlawful absences or a total of five unlawful absences.

 Habitual Truant
A “habitual” truant is a child, ages 12 to 17 years, who fails to comply with the intervention plan developed by the school, the child, and the parents(s) or guardian(s) and who accumulates two or more additional unlawful absences. This child may need court intervention and an initial truancy petition may be filed. The written intervention plan, and documentation of non-compliance, must be attached to the truancy petition asking for court intervention.

 Chronic Truant
A “chronic truant is a child ages 12 – 17 years who has been through the school intervention process, has reached the level of a “habitual” truant, has been referred to Family Court and placed on an order to attend school, and continues to accumulate unlawful absences. Should other community alternatives and referrals fail to remedy the attendance problem, the “chronic truant may be referred to the Family Court for violation of a previous court order. All school intervention plans existing to this point for this child and family must accompany the Contempt of court petition as well as a written recommendation from the school to the court on action the court should take. Once a child is determined to be a truant, school officials must make every reasonable effort to meet with the parent(s) or guardian(s) to identify the reasons for the student’s continued absence. These efforts should include telephone calls and home visits, both during and after normal business hours, as well as written messages and e-mails. School officials must develop a written “intervention plan” to address the student’s continued absence in conjunction with the student and parent(s) or guardian(s).

Test/Assessment Policy Reference AR ILB-R
Tests administered by the district or through the State Board of Education will include but are not limited to, the following: statewide assessment program tests [The South Carolina College-and-Career-Ready Assessments (SC READY); South Carolina Alternative Assessment (SC-Alt); end-of-course tests], including field tests and pilot tests Diagnostic Testing will be given to students to explore academic levels. Benchmark testing will be used to help teachers monitor and adjust to meet students’ academic needs.

End-of-Course Examination Program (EOCEP)- Students in courses that require an end-of-course exam are not required to take a final exam. The end-of-course exam will count 20% of the student’s final grade in the course. The student will be allowed to take EOC only once, at the end of the regular course duration, and not at the end of an extended period granted through the credit recovery option. The school will treat students who repeat the course as though they were taking the course for the first time and all requirements will apply.

 Exam Make-Up Policy
Students who are absent from an exam for legitimate reasons must submit a parent note to the principal within 2 school days after the exam. If possible the student or parent should contact the school on the day of the exam to inform the teacher or an administrator that the student is unable to attend. Exams must be made up. If permission is granted, within 5 school days following the original exam for the first semester. All second-semester exams must be made before the last day of school unless prior administrator approval is given.

Exam Exemption Policy
·       Students enrolled in 11th and 12th Grade Homerooms may exempt exams if they meet one of

·       the criteria below:

·       Student has a 90+ Average for the course AND no more than 3 absences in a nine-week course, 6 absences in a semester course, or 12 absences in a yearlong course AND has not been assigned Out of School Suspension (OSS).

·       Student has an 80+ Average for the course AND perfect attendance in that course AND has not been assigned Out of School Suspension (OSS).

·       Students enrolled in 9th and 10th Grade Homerooms will be required to take a final exam in all courses.

v  Exceptions to this policy include required state End of state-of-course exams, Dual Credit Courses   Exams, and Advanced Placement Exams. Students who participate in any of the previously mentioned exams will not be required to take additional final exams.

 Re-Test: The goal of assessment is to identify mastery of the content. Therefore, the retake policy is as follows:

·       Students can retake any three major assessments in the same grading period.

·       Students can retake any major grade with an original grade of 70 or lower.

·       Students must request a retake using the Retake Request form within 5 days of the grade being posted.

·       Students must complete a remediation session/assignment or a re-teaching session before retake.

·       Students will receive the highest of the two grades, not to exceed a 70.

·       Students can only retake an individual assessment once.

·       Retake assessments must be different from the original assessment, but comparable in rigor and content.

·       Final exams are not eligible for retakes.

 CHEATING POLICY

Any student found guilty of cheating or assisting another student to cheat will receive a zero on the assignment. The classroom teacher will inform the parent about the facts of the student’s involvement with cheating and the zero that is to be assigned. The teacher will also refer the student to his/her guidance counselor to receive counseling. Students who cheat will be removed from clubs and organizations whose membership requires adherence to the principle of honesty. Similarly, a student who cheats will be disqualified from receiving awards or scholarships that require the recipient to be bound by a code of honesty.

School Dress Code- Non- Negotiable
Ola Copeland Learning Center’s uniform policy is in place to promote school safety, improve discipline, and enhance the learning environment. The potential benefits of school uniforms include:

•                instilling students with discipline

•                helping students resist peer pressure

•                helping students concentrate on their schoolwork

•                helping school officials recognize intruders who come to the school

 The goal for our students is to dress appropriately each day. 

 PANTS

•                Khaki or Light Tan Pants for all students (no Khaki colored jeans will be allowed)

•                Belts–Black, Brown or Tan-no slide belts

•                Pants must be worn at the waist. Pants must have belt loops and the belt worn at all times.

 No large belt buckles or chains are allowed on the pants. No skirts, jumpers, cargo pants, jeans, sweat suit pants, pajamas, pictures, or messages on clothing. Short pants or oversized clothing will not be allowed.

 SHIRTS

•                High School–Black-collared polo style shirt, long or short sleeve, black sweatshirt

•                Middle School–Navy blue collared polo style shirt, long or short sleeve, blue sweatshirt

SHOES OR SNEAKERS

Shoes/sneakers must fit securely on the foot.  Shoes with open toes or backless shoes (including crocs, boots, flip-flops, sandals, mules, and slides) are not allowed.  Shoes must be laced properly or buckled.

 No pullover sweatshirts, hoodies, or sweaters are allowed. No pictures or messages are allowed on clothing. Shirts must be tucked into pants.  IF you wear an undershirt – IT MUST BE SOLID WHITE WITH NO GRAPHICS OR WRITING

 No watches, colored wristbands, rubber bands, neck beads, headbands, bandanas, do-rags, jewelry, tongue or body piercings are allowed. No magic markers.

 Gym shorts, blue jeans, or pajama pants may not be worn under khaki pants.

 Conventional hairstyles with no extreme colors ex: (orange, green, pink, blue, purple). Hairstyles should not interfere with staff being able to see a student’s eyes and out of face.

 Additionally, any student who does not comply with the dress code will be asked to adhere to it and/or may be sent to ISS for the day.

Entrance and Exit Procedures

Before entering the building, all students must pass through the metal detector located at the cafeteria or the front entrance. This process is in place to ensure the safety and security of everyone in the building.

ARRIVAL: All students will enter through the cafeteria. Students are not allowed to enter before 8:30 a.m. If students are car riders, they must remain in their cars until 8:30 a.m.

Tardiness
Students are expected to arrive at school and class on time.

Early Dismissal
Any student leaving campus before dismissal time must be signed out by a parent or guardian in the front office. Early dismissals are discouraged and are classified as excused or unexcused absences. Missed time due to early dismissal will count against a student’s attendance record.

Procedures for Early Dismissal
Requests for early dismissal must be made to the office secretary at the beginning of the school day and must be in writing. The request should include the student’s full name, current date, reason and time for dismissal, signature of the legal parent/guardian, and a telephone number for verification. All early dismissal requests will be verified by telephone. Students will remain on campus if the dismissal cannot be verified with a parent/guardian.

 Excused Early Dismissals Include:

1. Medical appointments with a doctor's statement.

2. Student illness verified by the school nurse or administrator.

3. Illness in the immediate family verified by a parent or doctor.

4. Death in the immediate family.

5. Court appearance with appropriate documentation.

Late Arrival
Students who arrive late should use the Main Front Entrance and sign in at the front office. They will be allowed to enter their classrooms between classes. Excessive tardiness will result in disciplinary actions and may be considered truancy.

VISITOR’S POLICY
All visitors must report to the main office or school administrator when they enter the building.  Unauthorized persons in the school building or on the campus will be asked to leave. Refusal to leave school property in response to a reasonable request will result in arrest for trespass and for disruption of the school.

Transportation:

SCHOOL BUS CONDUCT Policy Code JCDAD:  The board expects students to conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with the established standards for safety and classroom behavior. All bus riders must cooperate fully with the bus driver and observe bus rules. The bus driver has the responsibility for supervision of students on the bus. The driver may stop the bus at any time that misbehavior or threats offer a hazard to safe driving and may return the offending student to the school. The driver will report students who create a disturbance on school buses to the school principal. The principal or designee, as authorized by state law and regulation, may suspend or deny bus transportation to a student whose conduct is persistently and/or flagrantly detrimental to safety and order on the bus. Students who are involved in a fight or the physical abuse of another student while on the school bus will have their riding, privileges suspended for the remainder of the school year.

Students will be held responsible for obeying all Student Transportation Regulations and the School District Conduct Code. Suspended students must arrange their transportation and are considered truant if they miss school.

Contact the transportation office at 864-902-3646 with concerns and questions.

Inclement Weather Information
If schools must be closed due to an emergency or hazardous weather conditions, announcements will be made on WFGN and WEAC radio stations; WSPA-TV in Spartanburg; WYFF-TV in Greenville, and by the ALERTNOW phone system. When weather conditions are questionable, school personnel, parents, or students should tune in to these stations for information. The district also employs an “Alert Now System” to inform parents and students of emergency information. This system is based on up-to-date telephone numbers and information that is currently on file with schools. Please make sure your phone number is current.

Cafeteria
No one is permitted to leave the campus for lunch. Neither students nor their parents are permitted to deliver or bring fast food to be consumed by students on campus during the school day.

SCHOOL NURSE
The school nurse functions as a vital part of the school team to bridge the gap between health, wellness, and learning. Working with parents, health providers, and other school staff, the school nurse provides services for students that promote optimal health for academic success.

 The school nurse is located in the main office area. All prescribed medications must be brought to the school by the parent to be dispensed by our school nurse.

 Medication
The following guidelines have been implemented for the protection of all children. Parent cooperation is greatly appreciated.
 Medication will be given at school only when prescribed by a licensed physician.

1. A parent or guardian must bring the medication to the school nurse in the original container with the prescription label attached.  Students are not allowed to transport medicine to or from school.  Please do not bring medications to school in baggies, etc.  If you anticipate your child needs to take medicine at school, you may ask your pharmacist for two prescription bottles.

2. A parent or guardian must complete a written permission form for medicine given at the school.

3. Please note that DHEC regulations prohibit schools from keeping more than a thirty (30) day supply at a time and plan refills accordingly.

4. Asthma inhalers need to be kept with the school nurse.  The student will be allowed to use the inhaler, with nurse supervision, as instructed by the physician.  Other arrangements need to be made with the school nurse.

5. All emergency medication needs, such as insulin, glucose, Epi-pens, etc., will need to be arranged with the nurse.

 It is the responsibility of the parents/guardian to notify the school of any changes to the original prescription and provide the school with a new authorization form, reflecting changes in the original order. Nurses cannot accept medication changes from a parent. A written physician authorization/order is required to request for change in the dosage, timing, or route of administration of a prescribed drug.

Parents should also notify the school when the medication has been stopped or terminated by the physician. Parents/guardians must pick up any unused medications within one week of termination of medication and by the last day of school. Unused medications will not be sent home with the student; any unused medications will be destroyed if not picked up by the specified time.

 Chronic Illness
Chronic Illness Statements Chronic illness statements must be renewed each school year. Periodic updates of chronic illness statements are required annually for irreversible conditions and biannually for all others. Chronic illness forms should not be backdated and can only be used to excuse absences that occur after the form has been completed and submitted. The school principal may excuse up to 21 days for students with chronic notes should the student demonstrate 18 mastery for the course as indicated by a “C” or above

 Guidance
Copeland Academy provides a comprehensive guidance program that seeks to take into consideration the needs, problems, and concerns of all students.  Working with students in the educational, vocational, personal, and social areas, the guidance department establishes the following goals:

·       To help students discover their interests, and understand themselves and their abilities better so that they may have a successful high school experience.

·       To help students plan their course of studies and prepare them to return to their home school.

·       To be available to talk in confidence with any student regarding problems of a personal nature. Please stop by the guidance department to schedule a conference or ask your teacher to email a counselor.

·       To help the student evaluate various test scores and plan for future educational and vocational needs including securing admission to post-secondary institutions that meet their needs.

 Parent-Teacher Conferences
 Parents are encouraged to contact the school for a conference with the student’s teacher, counselor, or administrator. To make an appointment for a conference, please telephone the school for a time suitable to all. If possible a 24-hour advance notice should be given for a conference request.

Return to Home School

• Criteria for Recommendation:

  1. Passing grades.

  2. Good discipline record.

  3. Satisfactory attendance report.

• Approval: The home school can accept or reject the recommendation.

• Appeals: Rejections can be appealed to the home school.

Internet Usage

• Prohibitions: Students are not allowed to:

  1. Access inappropriate or illegal content.

  2. Bypass district internet filters.

  3. Introduce malicious software.

  4. Access unauthorized accounts or systems.

  5. Use non-district communication services.

  6. Access unapproved chat rooms or forums.

  7. Share private information.

  8. Violate copyright laws.

  9. Engage in impermissible online behavior.

  10. Transmit information unlawfully.

Disciplinary Action: The principal will decide on consequences, consulting the superintendent for severe cases.

In-School Suspension (ISS) Program for High School Students
The In-School Suspension (ISS) program is designed to provide a structured, supervised alternative to out-of-school suspension. It aims to keep students in an educational environment, isolated from their peers while addressing behavioral issues. The following outlines the key aspects and rules of the ISS program:

Purpose

• Structured Environment: ISS offers a controlled setting for suspended students, ensuring they remain in an educational environment.

• Behavior Management: Students exhibiting threatening behavior in ISS may be moved to out-of-school suspension (OSS).

• Repetition of ISS: Students assigned to ISS repeatedly (10 or more days) may face OSS due to persistent disobedience.

ISS Rules

1. Assignment and Removal: Only the Principal and/or Assistant Principal can assign or remove a student from ISS.

2. Communication: Students may only speak to the ISS Center Supervisor, not with other students.

3. Conduct: Students are prohibited from talking with peers, sleeping, or walking around in ISS.

4. Attendance: Names of students assigned to ISS will be provided to teachers and attendance officers so that these students are marked present.

5. Academic Work:

   • Subject area teachers must check the ISS list daily and send assignments to the ISS Supervisor for their respective students.

   • The ISS Supervisor oversees the completion of assignments and returns the work to the subject teachers.

6. Lunch: Students in ISS will have lunch as a group, separate from other students, with no conversation allowed among themselves or with others.

7. Compliance: Students must follow all ISS rules to avoid further disciplinary action.

8. Refusal: Refusal to attend ISS as assigned results in immediate OSS for the current offense and any future offenses punishable by ISS.

This program aims to maintain educational continuity while addressing and correcting behavioral issues in a structured and supervised manner.

 SUSPENSION

Suspension is the temporary removal of a student from school.

No student may be suspended for more than ten (10) consecutive days for any one offense unless recommended for expulsion.  No student may be suspended for more than thirty (30) days in any one school year unless expulsion is recommended.

 If it becomes necessary to suspend a student from school, the parent/guardian is notified in writing of the reason for suspension, and the length of the suspension, and given an opportunity to come in for a conference with the school official.  Parent conferences are required with all Out of School suspensions.

 Expulsion
Expulsion is the permanent removal of a student from school and the cessation of educational services for the remainder of the school year.  The local school board may determine the length of the expulsion.

 Expulsion Procedure
When a student at Copeland Academy commits a rule infraction that may result in expulsion, the student's home school will be notified. The administration at Copeland Academy will contact the parents to provide information about the process in accordance with district policy. The CCSD Office of Attendance, Truancy, and Discipline will communicate the time and place for the hearing, as well as the appeals process to the parents.

CONTRABAND
Contraband refers to items that are prohibited on school grounds. These items will be confiscated and held by either school officials or the school resource officer.

Contraband includes, but is not limited to, the following items: lighters, cigarettes, jewelry, chains, necklaces, cards, all electronic devices, sunglasses, containers, or similar items

Gangs
At Copeland Academy, we maintain a ZERO tolerance policy for gang activity on campus. As per this policy, any student found promoting gang activity will face immediate consequences.

This includes, but is not limited to, hand signs, gestures, written signs, verbal slang, and gang-related colors. If a student violates this policy, the parent or guardian will be required to attend a meeting with the administration and/or the School Resource Officer before the student can return to school to address the issue. All parties will sign a gang contract, which will be placed in the student’s file, stating that the student will not continue with such activities, along with the possible penalties if the inappropriate behavior continues.

 Instigation, Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying
Instigation of a disruption, harassment, intimidation, or bullying is prohibited on school grounds, school buses, at school bus stops, and at all school-sponsored events.

Definitions
Instigation of a disruption, harassment, intimidation, or bullying is defined as a gesture, electronic communication, written, verbal, or physical act that is reasonably perceived to have the effect of:

1. Harming a student, physically or emotionally, damaging a student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of personal harm or damage to property; or

2. Insulting or demeaning any student or group of students in such a way as to cause substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school.

Consequences
Consequences for students who engage in instigation of a disruption, harassment, intimidation, or bullying may include, but are not limited to, mandated counseling, out-of-school suspension, expulsion from school, or criminal charges, based on the severity of the incident.

Reporting
A school employee, student, or volunteer who witnesses or has reliable information that a student has been subject to harassment, intimidation, or bullying must report the incident to the administration. The administration or other appropriate school officials will investigate all reports, including anonymous reports or complaints, promptly and thoroughly.

Retaliation and False Accusations
Reprisals or retaliation against a person who reports an act of instigation, harassment, intimidation, or bullying is prohibited. However, persons found to have falsely accused another person of instigation, harassment, intimidation, or bullying will be subject to the consequences of suspension from school.

Trespassing

Unlawful Presence on District Property
The principal can take action against trespassers, including contacting police and placing individual(s )on trespass notice.

• Suspended/Expelled Students: Students who are suspended, recommended for expulsion, or expelled are not allowed on district property.

• Legal Basis: Section 16-17-420 of the South Carolina Code of Laws makes it unlawful to disturb or loiter on school premises without permission.

• Penalties: Violations can result in fines ($100-$1,000) or jail time (30-90 days).

Rights to Search
Students and parents should be aware that state law treats all persons entering the premises of the school as having consented to a reasonable search, with or without probable cause, of such persons and their effects, including without limitation lockers, desks, vehicles, and personal belongings such as purses, book bags, wallets and satchels.

 Under South Carolina Law, anyone on school property may be searched.
Violations of school rules and regulations concerning drugs, alcohol, smoking, damage to school property, verbal or physical abuse to peers or faculty, or verbal or physical threatening of school faculty, staff, or students will be handled in accordance with the discipline policies of Copeland Academy and the Cherokee County School District.

 Searches by Canines: The use of trained canines to search for controlled substances, weapons, and bombs in schools shall be on a random, unannounced basis. At the request of the school principal, a trained canine with its handler may go into schools to sniff lockers, desks, backpacks, and the exterior of automobiles. Trained canines will not be used to search students themselves. The canine must be accompanied by a qualified and authorized handler who will be responsible for the dog’s actions. Should the dog alert its handler to the presence of any controlled substance, weapon, or bomb, school officials would then have a reasonable basis to conduct a search in accordance with the procedures set forth above.

 Interrogations by Law Enforcement: When law enforcement officers find it necessary to question students during the school day, the principal or his/her designee shall cooperate with law enforcement and shall request to be present to protect the best interests of the student, so long as his/her presence does not impede the investigation. The principal or his/her designee should make a reasonable attempt to contact the student’s parent/legal guardian and request his/her presence. Should this attempt fail, the principal or his/her designee shall continue to make a reasonable attempt to notify the student/guardian that law enforcement questioning took place on school grounds.

These policies aim to maintain a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment at Copeland Academy.

School Resource Officer (SRO):
Ola Copeland Learning Center utilizes the services of a Cherokee County Sheriff’s Deputy who functions as the School Resource Officer (SRO). The SRO has the authority to detain, arrest, and place in custody any student or person violating South Carolina state laws.

Primary Purpose

• Safety: Ensuring a safe environment for students to attend school.

• Support:

  • Program Development: Assisting in the creation of student programs.

  • Counseling: Offering guidance and counseling to students.

  • Education: Teaching classes about legal issues.

SRO’s Role in Disciplinary Matters

• Law Enforcement Support: The SRO provides support in disciplinary actions when necessary.

• Routine Discipline: Handling routine disciplinary matters is the responsibility of the school administration, not the SRO.

The presence of the SRO aims to enhance the safety and well-being of the school community while also contributing to educational and counseling efforts.

 CCSD Board Policies

Please note that all CCSD Board Polices are located on the district website at -https://boardpolicyonline.com/?b=cherokee

Code of Conduct
https://boardpolicyonline.com/?b=cherokee&s=246608

Graduation Requirements
https://boardpolicyonline.com/?b=cherokee&s=246563

Grading/Assessment Systems
https://boardpolicyonline.com/?b=cherokee&s=246553

Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying
https://boardpolicyonline.com/?b=cherokee&s=246612

School Safety

Notice of Provisions of South Carolina School Safety Act of 1997

 The South Carolina School Safety Act of 1997 states that a student who commits an assault and battery, other than one that is aggravated, on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event against any person affiliated with the school in an official capacity including, but not limited to, administrators, teachers, faculty, substitute teachers, teachers’ assistants, student teachers, custodial staff, food service staff, volunteers, law enforcement officers, school bus drivers, school crossing guards, or other regularly assigned school-contracted persons is guilty of assault and battery against school personnel which is a misdemeanor, and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than one thousand dollars, or imprisoned not more than one year, or both.

The School Safety Act of 1997 requires the following:

 When a student is convicted of certain crimes (including assault and battery against school personnel) is assigned to various state agencies, that agency must immediately notify the Principal/director of the school where the student is enrolled or plans to enroll. When a student is convicted of certain crimes but is not incarcerated or placed on probation, the presiding judge will order the court, or in some instances the prosecuting agency, to notify the student’s school district of the student’s sentence. This notification must be sent within 10 days. School administrators must annually notify classroom teachers when any of their students are in either of the above categories. Schools must place information on students convicted of certain crimes in their permanent school records. They must also forward this information if the student transfers to another school or district.

Safe Schools Act

As required by state law, schools will report certain violent acts that take place at school or at school-sponsored activities to the State Board of Education. School administrators will contact law enforcement authorities when any felony, assault and battery, aggravated assault and battery, or crime involving a weapon or drug offense occurs on school property or at a school function. The Safe Schools Act of 1990 makes it unlawful for any person to threaten a teacher, principal, other public officials, or members of their family. Upon conviction, any person violating this provision must be punished by a term of imprisonment of not more than five years.

Alternative School Handbook Acknowledgment

We acknowledge that we have received a copy of the Copeland Academy Student Handbook and understand that students will be held accountable for their behavior and will be subject to disciplinary consequences.

Print name of student __________________________________________________

Signature of student __________________________________________________

Print name of parent/guardian ___________________________________________

Signature of parent/guardian ____________________________________________

Date: __________________________________

School: ________________________________

Grade level: ____________________________

**Please sign this page, remove it, and return it to the Alternative School.