Code of Student Conduct - PARENT-STUDENT HANDBOOK 2022-2023
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2022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Code of Student Conduct
PARENT-STUDENT HANDBOOK
2022-2023
2022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
P.O. Box 400, Lincolnton, NC 28093
201 Jeb Seagle Drive, Lincolnton, NC 28092
Phone: (704) 732-2261
www.lcsnc.org
INFORMATION IN THIS HANDBOOK IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
The information provided is current at the time the handbook is posted online.
Should there be any required policy changes based on the actions of the State Board
of Education, North Carolina General Assembly or the local Board of Education, the
content of this Parent-Student Handbook is subject to change without prior notice.
Annual Public Notices from the Federal and State Government
can be found at www.lcsnc.org.
2022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Meet the Members of the Board of Education
Heather H. Rhyne
Chairperson
696 Springs Side Drive
Lincolnton, NC 28092
704-735-1999
heatherrhyne@lincoln.k12.nc.us
District: At-Large
Term Expires: 2024
Christina Sutton Myra Heavner Joan S. Avery
P.O. Box 831
Vice-Chairperson 358 Guy Heavner Road
Lincolnton, NC 28093
3843 Lee Moore Road Lincolnton, NC 28092
704-473-2429 704-735-5263
Maiden, NC 28650
myra.heavner@lincoln.k12.nc.us joanavery@lincoln.k12.nc.us
704-736-5213
District: 1 District: 2
christina.sutton@lincoln.k12.nc.us
Term Expires: 2024 Term Expires: 2022
District: 3
Term Expires: 2024
Mark L. Mullen D. Todd Wulfhorst Tony A. Jenkins
P.O. Box 446 3758 Highway 16 North P.O. Box 1826
Lincolnton, NC 28093 Denver, NC 28037 Lincolnton, NC 28093
704-473-6311 704-483-3415 704-747-5228
markmullen@lincoln.k12.nc.us toddwulfhorst@lincoln.k12.nc.us tony.jenkins@lincoln.k12.nc.us
District: 4 District: 5 District: At- Large
Term Expires: 2024 Term Expires: 2022 Term Expires: 2022
2022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Message from the Superintendent
Dear LCS families:
Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year. We want to ensure all parents, staff and students work together
to create a positive and safe learning environment for our students. The Parent-Student Handbook contains
policies and procedures that focus on student behavior, such as discipline, administration of medicine,
school attendance, etc. This handbook is designed to inform and guide parents and students of the system
wide expectations. Additionally, it has been developed to provide consistency from school to school across
the district.
If you have any questions regarding the information contained in this handbook, please feel free to contact
your school principal. We look forward to partnering with you and your student to make certain this
academic year is successful!
Sincerely,
Aaron Allen
Superintendent
#LCSCreatingANewPath
2022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Central Services Administrative Staff
704-736-1017
Dr. Aaron Allen Superintendent Ext.30216
Dr. Heath Belcher Associate Superintendent for Instruction and Innovation Ext. 30182
Dr. Tim Beam Chief of Federal Programs & Student Support Ext. 30182
Leighann Campbell Transportation Coordinator Ext. 50105
Samantha Campbell Director of High School Education Ext. 30180
Diana Carpenter Chief Communications Officer and Director of Middle School Education Ext. 30169
Brian Clary Chief of Human Resources and Athletics Ext. 30209
Kimberly Davis Chief of Exceptional Children’s Services Ext. 30134
Eric Eaker Chief Operations Officer Ext. 30215
Steven Hoyle Chief Technology Officer Ext. 20138
Melanie Huss Director of Elementary School Education Ext. 30169
Beth McCraw Chief of Financial Operations Ext. 30155
Theodore Ramsey Maintenance Coordinator Ext. 40103
Shelly Rhyne Director of Child Nutrition Ext. 20128
Dr. Cale Sain Director of Career and Technical Education Ext. 20117
Dr. Joshua Sain Director of Academic Support and Learning Ext. 30135
Russell Saine Chief of Accountability and Student Information Ext. 30173
2022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook Page Table of Contents BOE Policy 1 Age Requirements for Initial Entry 4100 1 Immunization and Health Requirements for School Admission 4110 1 Homeless Students 4125 2 Meeting Domicile Requirements 4120 2 Attendance 4400 4 Technology Acceptable Use 3225/7320-R 4 Student Health Services 6120 4 Administering Medicines to Students 6125 5 Goals of School Nutrition Services 6200 5 Free and Reduced-Price Meal Services 6225 5 Charge Policy for Meals Served 6227 5 Special Dietary Needs 5 Authority of School Personnel 4301 6 Student Searches 4342 7 Drug Testing of Students 3623/4343 8 Alternative Learning Programs/Schools 3470/4305 8 Disciplinary Action for Exceptional Children/Students with Disabilities 4307 9 School Level Investigations 4340 9 Drugs and Alcohol 4325 10 Theft, Trespass, and Damage to Property 4330 11 Assaults and Threats 4331 11 Title IX Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex 1720/4030/7235 12 Weapons, Bomb Threats, Terrorist Threats, and Clear Threats to Safety 4333 13 Criminal Behavior 4335 14 Short-Term Suspension, Long-Term Suspension, 365 Day Suspension and Expulsion 4354 15 Tobacco Products - Students 4320 16 Integrity and Civility 4310 16 Academic Honor Code 4310-R 17 Disruptive Behavior 4315 18 Electronic Devices 18 Student Dress Code 4316-R 19 District-Wide Alternative Learning Center (ALC) 19 Misconduct on a School Vehicle 4317 19 School Bus Behavior/Safety 4317-R 23 Prom Attendance 23 Graduation Procedures 24 Weather Watch 24 North Carolina Safe Surrender Law 25 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) 26 Information to Promote Healthy Schools and Healthy Youth 27 Directory of Schools
2022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Age Requirements for Initial Entry- Homeless Students- BOE Policy 4125
BOE Policy 4100 As required by the North Carolina Constitution and
The Board of Education requires all students to meet the North Carolina law, the board of education is committed
eligibility requirements for school admission established to providing free public-school education to all children
by the state and the board, including age. Any parent or who are legally entitled to enroll in the school system. In
guardian who is unclear whether a child meets the age accordance with the McKinney-Vento Homeless
requirements is encouraged to contact the elementary Assistance Act and the North Carolina State Plan for
school that the child is likely to attend. Educating Homeless Children, the board will make
reasonable efforts to identify homeless children and
Immunization and Health Requirements for School youth of school age located within the area served by
Admission- BOE Policy 4110 the school system, encourage their enrollment, and
The Board of Education requires all students to meet the eliminate barriers to their receiving an education that
eligibility requirements for school admission established may exist in school system policies or practices.
by the State and the board, including immunization and
health assessments. The principal or designee shall Based on individual need, homeless students shall be
maintain on file immunization and health assessment provided services available to all students such as
records for all students, and these records may be preschool, free or reduced-price school meals, services
inspected by officials of the county or state health for English learners, special education, career and
departments in accordance with state and federal law. technical education (CTE), academically or intellectually
Each school principal shall file required reports with the gifted (AIG) services, and before- and-after-school care.
Department of Health and Human Services and the Examples of homeless are: sharing the house with other
Department of Public Instruction. persons due to the loss of housing, living in motels or
hotels, living in emergency or transitional shelters, living
Within 30 calendar days of his or her first day of in cars, parks, or public places, or living in a migratory
attendance in the school system, each student must situation that qualifies as homeless because the child
show evidence of age-appropriate vaccination in lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate residence.
accordance with state law and regulation, including the
following vaccines as applicable: Domicile or Residence Requirements-
BOE Policy 4120
• DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis); A student who is domiciled within the geographic area
• Poliomyelitis (polio); served by the school system, who is under the age of 21
• Rubeola (measles); (22 for students entitled to special education services),
• Rubella (German measles); who has not completed the prescribed courses for high
• Mumps; school graduation and who otherwise qualifies for
• Haemophilus influenzae, type b (Hib); admission, is entitled to be admitted without payment
• Hepatitis B; of tuition. Domicile requires the intent to abandon one’s
• Varicella (chickenpox); prior home and remain in the new location as a
• and any other vaccines as may be required by permanent home for an indefinite period.
law or regulation.
A student who received immunizations in a state other
than North Carolina must present an official certificate
that meets the immunization requirements of General
Statute 130A-154(b).
Exceptions to the immunization requirements shall be
made only for religious reasons or for medical reasons
approved by a physician pursuant to state law and
regulation.
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2022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Meeting Domicile Requirements The principal shall notify parents and take all other steps
1. The domicile of a student under 18 years of age is required by General Statute 115C-378 for excessive,
presumed to be the domicile of his or her parent, unexcused absences. Failure to comply with this law
legal guardian or legal custodian as defined by the could result in truancy mediation or court action against
General Statutes of North Carolina. the parent and/or child.
2. Domicile or emancipated students - if the student is
18 years of age, is married, or has been abandoned
by his or her parents, or if the court declares a
student to be emancipated, the student may
establish a domicile independent from that of his or
her parents, legal guardian or legal custodian.
3. Domicile of students with divorced or separated
parents shall be determined as follows:
• In the event that the student’s parents are Attendance Records
divorced or separated and physical custody has School officials shall keep accurate records of
been given to only one parent, the student’s attendance, including attendance records in each class.
domicile follows that of the parent who has Students will be considered in attendance if present at
been granted physical custody. least half of the instructional day on-site in the school or
• If physical custody has not been determined or at a place other than the school attending an authorized
has been granted jointly to both parents, or if school-related activity.
the custodial parent wishes the student to
attend school in the non-custodial parent’s
Excused Absences
system of residence, then the parents must
An absence may be excused for any of the following
jointly agree on which residence will be used to
reasons:
determine the student’s domicile.
• The selection may not be changed during the
1. personal illness or injury that makes the student
school year unless the parents satisfy the
physically unable to attend school;
board’s policies on transfers and releases.
2. isolation ordered by the local health officer or the
• In the event the parents cannot agree on which
State Board of Health;
residence shall be used to determine the
3. death in the Immediate family;
student’s domicile for school assignment
4. medical or dental appointments;
purposes, school officials shall assign the
5. attendance at the proceedings of a court or
student according to the residence of the
administrative tribunal if the student is party to the
parent with physical custody at the beginning of
action or under subpoena as a witness;
the school year.
6. a minimum of two days each academic year for
observance of an event required or suggested by
Attendance- BOE Policy 4400 the religion of the student or the student’s parent
School attendance and class participation are integral or legal guardian;
parts of academic achievement and the teaching- 7. participation in a valid educational opportunity,
learning process. Through regular attendance, students such as travel or service as a legislative or
develop patterns of behavior essential to professional Governor’s page, with prior approval from the
and personal success in life. Regular attendance by principal;
every student is mandatory. The State of North Carolina 8. pregnancy and related conditions or parenting,
requires that every child in the State between the ages when medically necessary; or
of 7 (or younger if enrolled) and 16 attend school. 9. a minimum of two days each academic year for
visitation with the student’s parent or legal
guardian if the student is not identified as at risk of
academic failure because of unexcused absences.
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2022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Elementary/Middle School Makeup Work
When a student is absent, a valid written excuse must In the case of excused absences, short-term out-of-
be presented to the teacher or designee within three school suspensions, and absences under G.S. 130A-
school days of the student’s return or the absence(s) will 440 (for failure to submit a school health assessment
be coded “unexcused.” In the case of elementary or form within 30 days of entering school), the student will
middle school students, excuse notes prepared and be permitted to make up his or her missed work. (See
signed by parents will be accepted for 10 absences also policies 4110, Immunization and Health
during the school year. Written documentation from a Requirements for School Admission, and 4351, Short-
doctor, dentist, or court official must be submitted in Term Suspension.)
order for absences beyond the limit of 10 parent
approved absences per year to be officially coded as Assignments missed due to participation in school-
“excused.” related activities also are eligible for makeup by the
student. The teacher shall determine when work is to
High School be made up. The student is responsible for finding out
Excuse notes prepared and signed by parents will be what assignments are due and completing them within
accepted for 5 absences during each semester. Written the specified time period.
documentation from a doctor, dentist, or court official
must be submitted in order for absences beyond the Unexcused Absence
limit of 5 parent approved absences per semester to be The principal shall notify parents and take all other steps
officially coded as “excused.” required by G.S. 115C-378 for excessive, unexcused
absences. Any school disciplinary consequences for
Tardiness and Early Dismissals unexcused absences will be consistent with Section D of
When students arrive late or leave school early they policy 4300, Student Behavior Policies.
miss valuable and irreplaceable instructional time as
well as interrupt the teaching of other students within The superintendent or designee shall list in the Code of
the classroom. North Carolina law states that it is the Student Conduct the specific range of consequences
parent or guardian’s duty to ensure that a child attends that may be imposed on a student for such
school for the entire day. Late arrivals or early dismissals offenses. Consequences may not exceed a short-term
may be excused if the situation meets one or more of suspension of two days.
the criteria established in the section titled “Excused
Absences”. Chronic Absenteeism
Because class attendance and participation are critical
School-Related Activities elements of the educational process, any absences,
While recognizing the importance of classroom learning, whether excused or unexcused, can have a negative
the board also acknowledges that out-of-classroom, impact on a student’s academic achievement. Regular
school-related activities can provide students with attendance must be prioritized within each school and
valuable experiences not available in the classroom encouraged throughout the community.
setting. The following school-related activities will not
be counted as absences from either class or school: School administrators shall monitor and analyze
attendance data to develop and implement strategies
1. field trips sponsored by the school; for reducing chronic absenteeism. Such strategies
2. job shadows and other work-based learning should involve engaging students and parents,
opportunities, as described in G.S. 115C-47(34a); recognizing good and improved attendance, providing
3. school-initiated and scheduled activities; early outreach to families of students missing school,
4. athletic events that require early dismissal from and identifying and addressing barriers to attendance.
school; and
5. Career and Technical Education student
organization activities approved in advance by the
principal.
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2022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Technology Acceptable Use- BOE Policy 3225/7320 A. Medication Administration by School Employees
Technology is an integral part of the educational process - BOE Policy 6125
in Lincoln County Schools. Therefore, students and staff Authorized school employees may administer
shall use technology appropriately and safely. In order medication to students when all of the following
to provide equal access and maximize utilization of conditions are met:
these shared resources, each student and staff member 1. The student’s parent must make a signed, written
has a responsibility to ensure the security of these request that authorizes school personnel to
systems, the proper use of these systems, and the safety administer the medication to the student.
of all other users. 2. A health care practitioner must prescribe the
medication for use by the student and provide
Student Health Services- BOE Policy 6120 explicit written instructions for administering the
The board will provide health services to students as medication.
required by law. School employees may administer 3. The student’s health care practitioner must certify
medication prescribed by a health care practitioner only that administration of the medication to the
upon the written request of the parents; give student during the school day is necessary to
emergency health care when reasonably apparent maintain and support the student’s continued
circumstances indicate that any delay would seriously presence in school.
worsen the physical condition or endanger the life of the 4. The employee must administer the medication
student; and perform any other first aid or lifesaving pursuant to the health care practioner’s written
technique in which training has been provided to school instructions provided by the student’s parent, and
employees. A registered nurse also will be available to in accordance with professional standards.
provide assessment, care planning, and ongoing
evaluation of students with special health care service B. Emergency Medication
needs in the school setting. Students who are at risk for medical emergencies must
have an emergency health care plan. Students must
Administering Medicines to Students- BOE Policy meet the requirements of subsection A.1, above,
6125 including providing authorization and instructions from
The board recognizes that students may need to take the health care practitioner and written consent of the
medication during school hours. School personnel may parent, in order for emergency medication to be
administer medication prescribed by a health care administered by school personnel while the student is at
practitioner upon the written request of the student’s school, at a school sponsored activity, and/or while in
parent to minimize disruptions to the school day, transit to or from school or a school-sponsored event.
medicines should be taken at home rather than at
school whenever feasible. School officials may deny a C. Student Self-Administering Medications
request to administer any medication that could be The board recognizes that students with certain health
taken at home. conditions like diabetes or asthma, or an allergy that
could result in an anaphylactic reaction, may need to
possess and self-administer medication on school
property in accordance with their individualized health
care plan or emergency health care plan.
42022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
No middle school student will be deprived a meal.
Middle school students will be allowed to charge an
equivalent of nine (9) reimbursable meals. Middle
school students that have exceeded the allowable
charges will receive a differentiated meal consisting of a
sandwich, fruit, and milk or water.
No elementary school student will be deprived of a
meal. Elementary students will be allowed to charge an
equivalent of fifteen (15) reimbursable meals.
Elementary students that have exceeded the allowable
charges will receive a differentiated meal consisting of a
sandwich, fruit, and milk or water.
Goals of School Nutrition Services- BOE Policy 6200
The board recognizes that it is important for students to Our Child Nutrition Department allows parents to
receive proper nutrition so that they are ready and able prepay for meals and put money on their child's account
to take advantage of educational opportunities. The at http://www.k12paymentcenter.com. This website
goals of the school nutrition services are as follows: also allows parents to get a detailed report of purchases
made by their child.
1. operating the school nutrition program efficiently
so that earnings may be used to reduce the cost of Special Dietary Needs
food; Students with medical conditions such as allergies and
2. enhancing students’ ability to learn by offering a diabetes may request modification to school meals by
variety of safe, nutritious, and appealing food; completing the Medical Statement form. Parents may
3. minimizing obesity; and obtain a special dietary needs form from the Child
4. providing courteous service. Nutrition Manager, Child Nutrition Office or by clicking
here. Modifications to student meals cannot be made
Free and Reduced-Price Meal Services- until a completed form with a physician’s signature is
BOE Policy 6225 received. Medical Statement forms should be updated
The school system will provide free meals and reduced annually or as medical conditions change.
price meals to eligible students in the schools. The
principal shall make applications for free or reduced Authority of School Personnel- BOE Policy 4301
price meals readily available to parents or guardians and The principal has the authority and responsibility to
shall accept completed applications at any time during investigate and take appropriate action regarding any
the school year. prohibited or criminal student behavior and any other
behavior appropriately referred to him or her. The
Charge Policy for Meals Served- BOE Policy 6227 principal is responsible for informing students and
Lincoln County School System participates in the parents of any standards or rules that, if violated, could
National School Lunch Program sponsored by the United result in short-term or long-term suspension or
States Department of Agriculture (USDA) which permits expulsion.
the school system to offer free and reduced priced
meals to students who qualify. The teacher has the authority and responsibility to
manage student behavior in the classroom when
No high school student will be deprived a meal. High students are under his or her supervision. The teacher
school students will be allowed to charge an equivalent is expected to implement the student behavior
of two (2) reimbursable meals. High school students management plan and any other school standards or
that have exceeded the allowable charges will receive a rules. The teacher may develop other standards or rules
differentiated meal consisting of a sandwich, fruit, and consistent with the direction provided by the board,
milk or water. superintendent, and school principal.
52022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Every teacher, student teacher, substitute teacher, A search must be justified at its inception and
voluntary teacher, teacher assistant or other school permissible in scope. School officials shall make
employee is required to report to the principal all acts of reasonable, good faith efforts to investigate allegations
violence occurring in school, on school grounds, or at of misconduct before a student search is conducted.
any school-sponsored activity. Teachers and other
school personnel have the authority to manage or Reasonable suspicion is not required if a student freely
remove disruptive or dangerous students. School and voluntarily consents and agrees to the search of his
personnel may use reasonable force to control behavior or her person or possessions.
or to remove a person from the scene in those situations
when necessary: A student’s failure to cooperate with a reasonable
search or seizures as provided in this policy will be
• to correct students; considered a violation of the expected standard of
• to quell a disturbance threatening injury to others; behavior, and will be subject the student to
• to obtain possession of a weapon or another appropriate consequences.
dangerous object on the person, or within the
control of a student; Searches of Personal Effects
• for self-defense; School officials may search a student’s desk, locker, and
• for the protection of persons or property; or or personal effects, including but not limited to purses,
• to maintain order on school property. book bags, and outer clothing. Policy 4318, Use of
Wireless Communication Devices, addresses the
Students must comply with all directions of principals, circumstances under which searches of student cell
teachers, substitute teachers, student teachers, teacher phones and other electronic devices may be conducted.
assistants, bus drivers, and all other school personnel School officials may search the interior of a student’s
who are authorized to give such directions, during any motor vehicle.
period of time when they are subject to the authority of
such personnel. A school official may conduct a frisk or “pat down”
search of a student’s person. The search must be
Consequences conducted in private by a school official of the same sex
and with an adult witness present.
Consequences for insubordination or failing to
comply with the direction of school personnel will In an effort to maintain a safe, drug-free, and weapon-
be provided in accordance with the school free learning environment, school officials may conduct
district’s Student Behavior Management Plan certain types of general searches in the schools.
(LCS Board Policy 4302). For repeated or serious
violations, the principal may suspend a student
from school for up to ten days.
Student Searches- BOE Policy 4342
School officials have the authority to conduct
reasonable searches of students and to seize students’
unauthorized materials for the purpose of maintaining a
safe, orderly environment and upholding standards of
conduct established by the board or school.
All school officials carrying out a search or seizure is
expected to be knowledgeable about the constitutional
rights of students and the appropriate procedures for
conducting the search or seizure.
62022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Consequences of Positive Tests
A student that tests positive for illegal drugs or
alcohol shall not be subjected to a traditional
academic punishment, including but not limited
to, in-school or out of school suspension.
Furthermore, the student will lose no academic
course credit as a result of a positive test result.
Lastly, Lincoln County Schools shall not notify law
enforcement of any positive test results.
Drug Testing of Students- BOE Policy 3623/4343
The Lincoln County Board of Education recognizes that First Positive Test:
drug use by students results in a significant health and 1. The MRO shall notify the student and student’s
safety risk to students and the educational parent/guardian of the positive test result. The
environment. The board further recognizes that drug parent/guardian will have three (3) calendar
use by student athletes and student drivers increases days to conference with the MRO to confirm
these health and safety risks. the results of the test. If the parents fail to
conference with the MRO, the test will be
It is the intent of the Lincoln County Board of Education reported to the Superintendent’s designee as
to maintain a drug-free atmosphere in its schools. The “positive-non-contact.”
testing of student athletes and students that hold 2. The MRO shall notify the Superintendent’s
campus parking permits for drugs is intended to be a designee who shall notify the student’s
helpful part of the overall physical, mental and health principal, athletic director and coach, when
education of students. applicable.
3. The student testing positive for drugs or
Notice alcohol will be ineligible to participate in all
Information concerning this policy and any mandatory athletics for ninety (90) days.
random drug testing programs will be provided during 4. Prior to returning to any activities subject to
sign-up for all activities subject to this policy will be this policy, the student must provide a negative
result from a test administered by the
addressed at freshmen orientation, will be included in
Contracted Test Administrator. The cost of this
the student handbook, will be explained to students and
drug test is the responsibility of the student.
faculty at least once a year.
Second Positive Test:
Reasonable Suspicion Drug Testing for Students
1. Upon a second positive test at any time during
When a principal or assistant principal has a reasonable
the student’s school career, the contracted
basis to believe that a student is using or is under the MRO shall notify the Superintendent’s
influence of a controlled substance at school, the school designee and the student’s parents. The
administrator may require that the student submit to a parent/ guardian will have three (3) calendar
drug test, at board expense, to determine whether the days to conference with the MRO to confirm
administrator’s belief is justified. the results of the test. If the parents fail to
conference with the MRO, the test will be
If the test results are negative for the presence of an reported to the Superintendent’s designee as
illegal drug, the student will be found innocent of the “positive-non-contact.”
allegations of misconduct. A decision by the student or 2. The Superintendent’s designee shall notify the
the student’s parents not to be tested will result in the student’s principal, athletic director and coach,
immediate and permanent removal of the student from when applicable.
the activities subject to this policy. If test results are
positive for the presence of drugs, the results will be
considered relevant corroborative evidence of a
violation of policy 4325, Drugs and Alcohol. The student
will be disciplined in accordance with policy 4325.
72022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Transfers to the Alternative School
3. The student testing positive for drugs or Students generally are assigned to a school based on
alcohol will be ineligible to participate in all attendance area.
athletics for 365 days from the date of the
positive test. However, as provided by law, the board may assign any
4. Prior to returning to any of the activities student to a school outside of his or her attendance area
subject to this policy, the student must in order for the student to attend a specialized school or
provide a negative result from a test for any other reason the board, in its sole discretion,
administered by the Contracted Test deems sufficient.
Administrator. The cost of this drug test is
the responsibility of the student. Students may be transferred to an alternative school as
a consequence of the student’s behavior, on a voluntary
or involuntary basis. Placement decisions should be
Third Positive Test: made utilizing school personnel or team information
1. Upon a student’s third positive test any time that is relevant to any specific classification of the
during the student’s school career in Lincoln individual student (e.g., IEP Team, 504 Committee,
County, the MRO shall notify the Student Services Management Team, School-based
Superintendent’s designee, the student, and Committee, etc.).
the student’s parents. The parent/guardian
will have three (3) calendar days to
Please refer to LCS Board Policy 3470/4305 for the
conference with the MRO to confirm the
procedures for referral to the alternative school.
results of the test. If the parents fail to
conference with the MRO, the test will be
reported to the Superintendent’s designee
as “positive-non-contact.”
2. The student will be ineligible to participate in
any activities subject to this policy for the
remainder of his or her school career.
Alternative Learning Programs/Schools-
BOE Policy 3470/4305
The board is committed to the goal of providing a safe
and orderly learning environment in each school. The
educational program, student behavior management Disciplinary Action for Exceptional Children
plans, and numerous other strategies identified in board /Students with Disabilities- BOE Policy 4307
policy are intended to create such an environment and Disciplinary actions for students with disabilities
to help each student be a successful and contributing identified as exceptional children according to North
member of the school community. Carolina guidelines will conform to the Policies
Governing Services for Children with Disabilities as
As used in this policy and context, an alternative learning adopted by the State Board of Education. If the Policies
program or school may serve as the site to: (1) deliver Governing Services for Children with Disabilities manual
educational services required by G.S. 115C-390.9 or does not fully address a particular issue, the director of
390.10 to a student who is serving a long-term or 365- exceptional children will develop any necessary
day suspension; (2) provide concentrated support for protocols consistent with state and federal law. All
students at risk of academic failure; and/or (3) deliver students with disabilities will be accorded all rights as
educational and other services to students who are or provided by state and federal law.
may be disruptive to a safe and orderly learning
environment in the regular educational setting.
82022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
School Level Investigations- BOE Policy 4340 Drugs and Alcohol- BOE Policy 4325
The board is committed to creating a safe and orderly Unauthorized or illegal drugs and alcohol are a threat to
environment for students and staff. Principals are safe and orderly schools and will not be tolerated. The
authorized and responsible for investigating conduct superintendent is responsible for ensuring that this
that may violate a board policy, school standard, school policy is consistently applied throughout the school
rule or the Code of Student Conduct. system. This policy applies to students while on school
property or at a school-sponsored event or activity
Any student who has violated board policy, school (whether on or off school property) and at any other
standard, school rule, or the Code of Student Conduct time or place where the conduct is reasonably expected
must accept the consequences for his or her to have a direct and immediate impact on the orderly
misbehavior. All consequences must be administered in and efficient operation of the schools or the safety of
a fair and nondiscriminatory manner. The school individuals in the school environment.
administrator shall take the following steps in
addressing all cases of alleged misbehavior: Reporting Criminal Behavior
BOE Policy 4335 (Criminal Behavior)
• investigate the facts and circumstances related to
the alleged misbehavior; Any school employee is permitted to report to law
• offer the student an opportunity to be heard on the enforcement an assault by a student on a school
matter; and employee. Principals or other supervisors shall not,
• determine whether a board policy, school standard, by threats or in any other manner, intimidate, or
school rule or the Code of Student Conduct has attempt to intimidate the school employee from
been violated. doing so. Principals must immediately report to law
enforcement the following acts when they have
If a violation has occurred, the school administrator shall personal knowledge or actual notice from school
implement an appropriate consequence in accordance personnel that such acts have occurred on school
with the school’s plan for managing student behavior, property, regardless of the age or grade of the
the Code of Student Conduct, (LCS Board Policy 4300) or perpetrator or victim:
applicable board policy. Parents are to be notified and
involved in accordance with LCS Board Policy 4341 1. assault resulting in serious personal injury;
(Parental Involvement in Student Behavior Issues). 2. sexual assault;
When the misbehavior may result in a suspension or an 3. sexual offense;
expulsion from school, procedures provided in related 4. rape;
board policies also will apply. 5. kidnapping;
6. indecent liberties with a minor;
A student with disabilities recognized by Section 504 of 7. assault involving the use of a weapon;
the 1973 Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or the Individuals 8. possession of a firearm in violation of the law;
with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) will be accorded all 9. possession of a weapon in violation of the law;
rights granted by federal and state laws and regulations. 10. possession of a controlled substance in
violation of the law.
A principal who willfully fails to make a required
report to law enforcement will be subject to
disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.
The principal or designee shall notify the
superintendent or designee in writing or by e-mail
of any report made by the principal to law
enforcement. Ideally, such notice must occur as
soon as the incident occurred or when the principal
gained knowledge of such incident.
92022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Prohibited Behavior Trespass: Students are prohibited from trespassing
Students are prohibited from possessing, using, selling, on school property. A student will be considered a
or being under the influence of any of the following trespasser and may be criminally prosecuted in any of
substances: narcotic drugs; hallucinogenic drugs; the following circumstances:
amphetamine; barbiturates; marijuana; synthetic a. the student is on the campus of a school to
stimulants, and synthetic cannabinoids; and any other which he or she is not assigned during the
controlled substance; any alcoholic beverage, malt school day without the knowledge and consent
beverage, fortified or unfortified wine or other of the officials of that school;
intoxicating liquor; any chemicals, substances or b. the student is loitering at any school after the
products procured or used with the intention of bringing close of the school day without any specific
about a state of exhilaration or euphoria or of otherwise need or supervision; or
altering the student’s mood or behavior. c. the student has been suspended from school
but is on the property of any school during the
Consequences suspension period without the express
permission of the principal.
As required by policy 4335, Criminal Behavior,
the principal must report to the appropriate Damage to Property: Students are prohibited from
law enforcement agency any student who has damaging or attempting to damage any school property
used or possessed a controlled substance in or private property.
violation of law while on school property.
Selling or Possession with the Purpose of Selling
Students are prohibited from possessing, using, selling,
delivering, or manufacturing drug paraphernalia,
including but not limited to rolling papers, roach clips,
lighters, matches, vaping devices, vape liquid
containers, pipes, syringes, and other delivery devices
for prohibited substances.
Appropriate Legal Action
In addition, depending upon the circumstances, a
student may be permanently expelled (see LCS Board
Policy 4354 Short-Term Suspension, Long-Term
Suspension, 365-Day Suspension and Expulsion).
Theft, Trespass, and Damage to Property- Consequences
BOE Policy 4330
First Offense: Up to five days suspension and
The board will not tolerate theft, trespass or damage to
conference with parent.
property by any student. Any student engaging in such
behavior will be removed from the classroom or school
environment for as long as is necessary to provide a safe Second Offense: Up to ten days suspension and
and orderly environment for learning. conference with parent.
Theft: Students are prohibited from stealing or
attempting to steal school or private property and/or Third Offense: Ten days suspension and recommend
from knowingly being in possession of stolen property.
suspension for the rest of the year.
+ 102022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Assaults, Threats and Harassment and Bullying
Consequences
First Offense: Up to ten days suspension and
conference with parent.
Second Offense: Up to ten days suspension and
conference with parent.
Third Offense: Ten days suspension and
recommend suspension for the rest of the year.
The school administrator has the authority to vary from
Harassment and bullying are further defined in policy
the above-mentioned consequences if the severity of
1710/4020/7230, Discrimination and Harassment
the offense warrants such judgment. +
Prohibited by Federal Law.
Assaults and Threats- BOE Policy 4331 North Carolina requires each school system to track and
The board will not tolerate assaults or threats from any
report all incidents of the following: bullying, verbal and
student. Any student engaging in such behavior will be
sexual harassment. The state now defines sexual
removed from the classroom or school environment for
contact (General Statute 14-27.1) to include the
as long as is necessary to provide a safe and orderly
touching of any sexual organ, breast, groin, or buttocks
environment for learning.
of any person, a person touching another person with
their sexual organ, breast, groin, or buttocks.
Assault, Fighting, Injury
Students are prohibited from assaulting, physically Title IX Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex-
injuring, attempting to injure, or intentionally behaving
BOE Policy 1720/4030/7235
in such a way as could reasonably cause injury to any
The school system does not discriminate on the basis of
other person. Assault includes engaging in a fight.
sex in its education programs or activities and is
required by Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of
Threatening Acts
1972 and federal regulations to not discriminate in such
Students are prohibited from directing toward any other
a manner. This requirement extends to admission and
person any language that threatens force, violence or
employment. The board will not tolerate discrimination
disruption, or any sign or act that constitutes a threat of
on the basis of sex, including any form of sexual
force, violence or disruption, including social media
harassment as that term is defined under Title IX, in any
threats. Bomb and terrorist threats are also addressed
program or activity of the school system.
in LCS Board Policy 4333, Weapons, Bomb Threats,
Terrorist Threats and Clear Threats to Safety.
Harassment
Students are prohibited from engaging in or
encouraging any form of harassment, including bullying
of students, employees or other individuals on school
grounds or at school related functions. Harassment is
unwanted, unwelcomed and uninvited behavior that
demeans, threatens or offends the victim and results in
a hostile environment for the victim. The hostile
environment may be created through pervasive or
persistent misbehavior or a single incident if sufficiently
severe.
112022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Consequences Prohibited Behavior
Students are prohibited from possessing, handling,
1. Elementary Schools using or transmitting, whether concealed or open, any
Except where certain consequences for weapon or any instrument that reasonably looks like a
misbehavior are required by law, principals in weapon or could be used as a weapon. Weapons
the elementary grades are expected to use good include, but are not limited to the following:
judgment and reasonable discretion in
determining the appropriate consequences for a. loaded and unloaded firearms, including guns,
violation of board policies, school standards, or pistols, and rifles;
rules. b. destructive devices, as described in subsection
2. Middle and High Schools B 2 of this policy including explosives, such as
First Offense: Up to ten days suspension and dynamite cartridges, bombs, grenades, and
conference with parent. mines;
Second Offense: Up to ten days suspension and c. nuclear, biological, or chemical weapons of
conference with parent. mass destruction as defined in G.S. 14-
Third Offense: Ten days suspension and 288.21(c);
recommended suspension for the remainder of d. knives, including pocket knives, bowie knives,
the year. switchblades, dirks and daggers;
e. slingshots and slungshots;
f. leaded canes;
The school administrator has the authority to vary from g. blackjacks;
the above-mentioned consequences if the severity of h. metal knuckles;
the offense warrants such judgment. i. BB guns;
j. air rifles and air pistols;
**For information on what constitutes discrimination, k. stun guns and other electric shock weapons,
harassment and bullying and the reporting and such as tasers;
complaint procedures, see Board Policy 1710 available l. ice picks;
at www.lincoln.k12.nc.us. m. razors and razor blades (except those designed
and used solely for personal shaving);
Weapons, Bomb Threats, Terrorist Threats, and n. fireworks;
Clear Threats to Safety- BOE Policy 4333 o. gun powder, ammunition, or bullets;
The board will not tolerate the presence of weapons or p. any sharp pointed or edged instruments, except
destructive devices, bomb or terrorist threats, or actions unaltered nail files and clips and tools used
that constitute a clear threat to the safety of students or solely for preparation of food, instruction and
employees. Any student who violates this policy will be maintenance; and
removed from the classroom or school environment for q. Mace, pepper spray, and other personal
as long as is necessary to provide a safe and orderly defense sprays.
environment for learning.
No student may knowingly or willfully cause, encourage,
or aid another student to possess, handle, or use any
weapon or weapon-like item listed above. A student
who finds a weapon or weapon-like item, who witnesses
another student or other person with such an item, or
who becomes aware that another student or other
person intends to possess, handle or use such an item
must notify a teacher or the principal immediately.
Middle and high school students may also utilize the
anonymous safety tip line for reporting risks to the
school population.
122022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Transfer to an alternative school may be made in
General Consequences
accordance with the criteria established in policy
3470/4305, Alternative Learning Programs/Schools.
The disciplinary consequences for violations of
The student will continue to be provided with
this policy shall be consistent with Section D of
educational opportunities unless and until the student is
policy 4300, Student Behavior Policies. The
found to have violated board policy or school rules and
superintendent or designee shall list in the Code
is suspended or expelled in accordance with procedures
of Student Conduct the specific range of
established in board policy.
consequences that may be imposed on a student
for violations of this policy.
G.S.115C-366(a5), a local board may deny admission to
or place reasonable conditions on the admission of a
student who has been suspended from a school under
Specific Consequences Mandated by Law G.S. 115C-390.5 through G.S. 115C-390.10 or who has
been suspended from a school for conduct that could
As required by law, a student who brings or have led to a suspension from a school within the local
possesses a firearm or destructive device on school administrative unit where the student is seeking
school property or at a school-sponsored event admission until the period of suspension has expired.
must be suspended for 365 days, unless the Also, a local board may deny admission to or place
superintendent modifies, in writing, the required reasonable conditions on the admission of a student
365-day suspension for an individual student on who has been expelled from a school under G.S. 115C-
a case-by-case basis. 390.11 or who has been expelled from a school for
behavior that indicated the student's continued
presence in school constituted a clear threat to the
The school administrator has the authority to vary from safety of other students or staff as found by clear and
the above-mentioned consequences if the severity of convincing evidence, or who has been convicted of a
the offense warrants such judgment. Please review LCS felony in this or any other state. If the local board denies
Board Policy 4333 for other examples. admission to a student who has been expelled or
convicted of a felony, the student may request the local
Criminal Behavior- BOE Policy 4335 board to reconsider that decision in accordance with
Criminal or other illegal behavior is prohibited. Any G.S. 115C-390.12.
student who the principal reasonably believes has
engaged in criminal behavior on school premises or at Reporting Criminal Behavior
school activities will be subject to appropriate Principals must immediately report to law enforcement
disciplinary action, as stated in applicable board policies, the following acts when they have personal knowledge
and also may be criminally prosecuted. or actual notice from school personnel that such acts
have occurred on school property, regardless of the age
Students Charged with or Convicted of Criminal or grade of the perpetrator or victim: assault resulting in
Behavior serious personal injury; sexual assault; sexual offense;
The superintendent and principal may take reasonable rape; kidnapping; indecent liberties with a minor;
or legally required measures to preserve a safe, orderly assault involving the use of a weapon; possession of a
environment when a student has been charged with or firearm in violation of the law; possession of a weapon
convicted of a serious crime, regardless of whether the in violation of the law; and possession of a controlled
alleged offense was committed on school grounds or substance in violation of the law.
related to school activities. Depending upon the
circumstances, including the nature of the alleged
crime, the child’s age, and the publicity within the school
community, reasonable or legally required efforts may
include changing a student’s classroom assignment or
transferring the student to another school.
132022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
Short-Term Suspension- BOE Policy 4354 designed to give actual notice. School officials also shall
A short-term suspension is the disciplinary exclusion of maintain a copy of the written notice in the student’s
a student from attending his or her assigned school for educational record.
up to ten (10) school days. So long as all relevant Board
policies are followed, the principal has the authority to Long Term Suspension, 365-Days Suspension and
determine when a short-term suspension is an Expulsion- BOE Policy 4354
appropriate consequence and to impose the Long-term suspension is the disciplinary exclusion of a
suspension. A student under short-term suspension student from attending his or her assigned school for
must be provided the following: more than ten (10) school days. Disciplinary
reassignment of a student to a full-time educational
• The opportunity to take textbooks home for the program that meets the academic requirements of the
duration of the suspension; standard course of study established by the State Board
• Upon request, the right to receive all missed of Education and that provides the student the
assignments and, to the extent practicable, the opportunity to make timely progress toward graduation
materials distributed to students in connection with and grade promotion is not a long-term suspension
the assignment; and requiring the due process procedures set out in this
• the opportunity to take any quarterly, semester or Policy.
grading period examinations missed during the
suspension period. Appeal of Long-Term or 365 Suspensions
A student or parent/guardian must appeal to the Board
a long-term or 365-day suspension approved by the
Superintendent. The student or parent/guardian must
appeal to the Board, in writing, within three (3) days of
receiving the superintendent’s decision. The
superintendent will inform the Board chairperson of the
request for an appeal and arrange in a timely manner a
hearing before the Board. The suspension need not be
postponed pending the outcome of the appeal.
The Board will provide the opportunity for a hearing
which follows the rules established herein for an
Administrative Review hearing, except the
Superintendent or designee will represent the school
When imposing a short-term suspension, the principal
district and the Board or a panel of the Board shall be
or designee shall provide the student’s parent or the decision maker. If a hearing has already been held
guardian with notice that includes the reason for the by an the Superintendent or Team, the hearing rules
suspension and a description of the student conduct may be modified at the Board's discretion to limit
upon which the suspension is based. The principal or presentations of testimony to the student, student's
designee must give this notice by the end of the workday parent/guardian and representative and the school
during which the suspension is imposed when district's representative. The student and the
reasonably possible, but in no event more than two (2) superintendent may be represented by legal
days after the suspension is imposed. If English is the counsel. The Board also may limit documentation to the
second language of the parent, the notice must be records and evidence produced at the Administrative
provided in English and in the parent’s primary Review hearing, unless there is a substantial threat of
language, when the appropriate foreign language unfairness.
resources are readily available. Both versions must be
Students with disabilities recognized by the Individuals
in plain language and easily understandable. with Disabilities Act must receive alternative
educational services during periods of suspension or
The initial notice may be by telephone, but it must be expulsion to the extent required by law.
followed by timely written notice. The written notice
must include all of the information listed above and may
be sent by fax, e-mail or any other method reasonably
142022-2023 Parent & Student Handbook
The principal or designee shall also inform the • student discipline record or criminal record related
parent/guardian whether or not the student is eligible to anti-social behavior or drugs and alcohol;
for an alternative education program and, if not eligible, • whether any weapon was involved and the capacity
the reason(s) for the ineligibility. to inflict serious injury or death with it;
• any evidence of the student’s capability to cause the
harm intended or that occurred; and
• whether the student is subject to Policy 4260-
Student Sex Offenders.
Harm Caused by the Student
Harm caused by the student will be assessed by
considering the following:
• anyone was physically injured or killed;
• anyone was directly threatened or property
extorted by the use of a weapon;
• anyone was directly harmed, emotionally or
An expulsion is the indefinite exclusion of a student from psychologically;
school enrollment for disciplinary purposes. Upon the • school property or personal property of others was
Superintendent’s recommendation, the Board may damaged; or
expel a student who is fourteen (14) years of age or • students, school employees or parents were aware
older if the student’s continued presence in school of the presence of a weapon or other behavior.
constitutes a clear threat to the safety of other students
or employees. Additionally, a student who is subject to After considering the above factors, the principal will
Policy 4260- Student Sex Offenders may be expelled if make a recommendation to the Superintendent stating
the student’s continued presence in school constitutes the nature of the offense, the evidence involved, and
a clear threat to the safety of other students or the length of the suspension recommended. The
employees. During the expulsion, the student is not principal also must consider and make a
entitled to be present on educational property and is recommendation about any alternative education,
not considered a student of the school system. counseling or other program that should be part of the
consequence for violating the Board’s policy, the Code
Determination of Appropriate Consequences of Student Conduct, school standards or rules.
The principal will propose any suspensions beyond ten
days based upon a documented review of the student’s Tobacco Products - Students- BOE Policy 4320
culpability, dangerousness, and the harm caused by the The board is committed to creating safe, orderly, clean
student. and inviting schools for all students and staff. The board
also supports state and federal laws that prohibit the
Culpability of Student use of tobacco products in school buildings or on school
Culpability will be assessed by considering criteria such campuses.
as:
• the student’s age; Prohibited Behavior
• the ability to form intent to cause harm that In support of the board’s commitments and state and
occurred or could have occurred; and federal law, students are prohibited from using or
• evidence of the student’s intent in engaging in the possessing any tobacco product (1) in any school
conduct. building, school vehicle, or on the school grounds at any
time; (2) at any school-related activity, including athletic
Dangerousness of the Student events; or (3) at any time when the student is subject to
Dangerousness of the student will be assessed by the supervision of school personnel, including during
considering criteria such as: school trips.
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