The Westside Way
Student/Parent Handbook 2008-09

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES 
Attendance Policy
If You Are Absent
Excused Absences
Common Unexcused Absences
Why You Need to Know This
Credit Appeal Policy
If You Are Tardy/Late
Leaving School Early
Campus Visits
Verification of Enrollment (VOE)
Health Concerns
Immunizations
Temporary or Ongoing Medical Conditions
Administering Medication at School
Counseling Services
Dress Code
Use of Electronic Devices
Public Displays of Affection
Safety and Security
Identification
Walking the Halls (Truancy)
Supervision
Campus Visitors
Canine Unit
Discipline and Privileges 
Code of Student Conduct
Discipline Measures and Terminology
Honor Code
Off Campus Privileges
THE ROAD TO GRADUATION
Graduation Requirements
Degree Plans
Four-Year Plan
GPA Scale and Calculation
Pass/Fail Waiver
Class Rank
Transcripts
Grades
Report Cards and Progress Reports
Credit Appeal
Composite Grading (Whole Course Credit)
Credit Recovery
Course Failure
Tutorials
Intervention Office
Parent Meetings
Class Meetings
College Advising
News and Information
Joining the WHS List Serve
Website
Call-out System
Westside Wire 
Howler
Announcements
Contacting WHS
Administrators, Deans and House Secretaries
Curriculum Directors
Other Important Contacts
Troubleshooting
GETTING INVOLVED
Student Opportunities
Clubs and Organizations
Athletic Oriented Programs
Performing and Visual Arts Programs
Student Government
WHS Student Forums
Parent Opportunities
Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)
Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS)
Athletic Booster Club (ABC)
Other Parent Groups
Guest Speakers
The “Big Picture”
SDMC
Greg Meyers Community Meetings
Attending WHS Functions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
BELL SCHEDULE

 

Section I: Policies and Procedures

Attendance Policies-
Credit where credit is due


Attendance is a minefield and you can destroy the credit you’ve earned in a course simply by accumulating too many absences. It is critical that you understand the Attendance Policies, so read on to avoid a costly mistake.

If You are Absent

Students must bring a note from a parent/guardian to the Attendance Office (A119) explaining the absence. Do NOT give the note to your teacher, dean, coach, bus driver, friend or anyone else you cross paths with. You have 3 days to bring in the note upon returning to school. The note needs to include the student’s first and last name, grade, date(s) of absence and reason for absence. The note must also be dated with a parent/guardian signature and a phone number for verification. The Attendance Office will maintain a sign in sheet when students drop off notes. If at all possible, we will attempt to make parent contact if the absence is inexcusable. Students will be allowed one day per each day of absence to make up work once returning to school. 

WORD TO THE WISE
Many parents assume that if their child leaves early for an appointment/illness with a parent note or permission, that the absence will be excused.  In fact, we must have appropriate documentation upon the student’s return back to school!

Excused Absences

Absences are excused for personal illness, sickness or death in the family, quarantine, weather or road conditions making travel dangerous as publicized by HISD, participation in school activities (maximum 5 per course per semester) with permission of the principal, juvenile court proceeding documented by a probation officer, pre-approved college visitation, HISD recognized religious holy days, and doctor or therapy appointment (a doctor’s note is required). Please note that any absence for personal illness for 3 or more days requires a doctor’s note to be considered excused.  All other absences are unexcused.

Common Unexcused Absences

Car trouble, oversleeping, traffic, metro bus issues, being out of town, and trips not sponsored by HISD/Westside are all examples of unexcused absences. We realize some circumstances are beyond your control but the district does permit 5 unexcused absences in the Fall 2008 semester and 6 in the Spring 2009 semester (per semester course) to allow for occurrences such as these. Extreme bad luck not withstanding, this should keep you out of serious trouble.

Why You Need to Know This (Loss of Credit)

Now to the heart of the matter; here’s the attendance policy you must be aware of or risk losing credit for a course, regardless of grade!

If a student exceeds the allowable number of unexcused absencesin a semester high school course (that would be more than 5 in the fall 2008 and more than 6 in the spring 2009 as noted above), credit will be denied as designated by an asterisk (*) on the grade report.

WARNING
The number of allowable absences changes each semester based on days school is in session. Do not risk losing credit due to excessive absences! Learn and follow the policy.

Credit Appeal Policy

Credit Appeal is not a quick fix for students who fail to follow procedure (I needed a note?) or didn’t realize the consequences of hitting the snooze button one too many times. There are, however, legitimate extenuating circumstances and this policy is designed to reinstate credit in those instances. Suffice it to say that you don’t want to go down this road if you can avoid it!

The credit appeal process is initiated by the student/parent and requires a formal written petition requesting credit be awarded in spite of excessive unexcused absences. The Faculty Council for Student Standards oversees the credit appeal process and approves/denies submitted credit appeals. We cannot stress enough the importance of parents/guardians being aware of grade and attendance reporting which are distributed every three weeks.  The Credit Appeal Form is available from the deans and the current form will be posted online at www.westsidewolves.org each semester when available.

Credit Appeal Form

The Form includes student and course information. Parent/guardian signature is required, and this form must be submitted to the main office within 2 weeks of the report card distribution or as publicized by administration.

Forms will not be processed without a copy of the report card.  Completion of service hours must be accurately documented and submitted to main office within 6 weeks of report card distribution for the current semester.  A letterhead from the organization must be attached to the form as well.  Incomplete forms or unverifiable service hours will not be approved.  No photocopies or faxes will be accepted.

Authorized Service

Unauthorized  Service

West Houston Assistance Ministries

Daycare, Banks, Retail Stores, & other businesses

Westside approved Sat. tutorial camps

Mowing lawns, babysitting, etc.

After School Study Hall

Activities during school hours

Parkway Place and Eagles Trace

Approved by anyone other than WHS admin

An important goal for Westside High School is to attain an exemplary attendance rate among our student body as it is directly tied to increased student accountability, student achievement, and state funding. To that end, we have employed a precise credit appeal policy.  The intent of the policy is to encourage students who exceed the absence limit and are in position to be denied credit stay in school while maintaining high standards among our student body.

If you are Tardy/Late

First of all, you must understand the definition of “tardy.” If you arrive in class after the bell rings but within the first 10 minutes, you are tardy. If you are more than 10 minutes late to class, you are considered absent. 

If a student reports to class after the bell rings but within the first 10 minutes, the student will sign the tardy sheet in the classroom when they arrive. The first five tardies will earn you a day in ISS (In-School Suspension).  After that, an attendance contract will be developed to assist you in getting to class on time.

If you are more than 10 minutes late arriving to school for the first class period of the day and it is due to any of the excused absences above, bring a note with you and report to the Attendance Office (A119), NOT your dean’s office, as you have already been marked “absent.” The Attendance Office will issue a permit to class. While transportation problems are NOT considered excused absences, if an HISD bus is late to school an excused pass will be issued. Because you have a permit you will not need to sign the tardy sheet when you arrive in class.  The permit will be attached to the tardy sheet for documentation.

If you do not have a note for the first period of the day or are more than 10 minutes late to any other class period, go to class anyway! You will be marked absent but you won’t compound the problem by missing assignments and falling behind in your class work.

Leaving School Early

If you have an appointment, your parent/guardian should come to school to sign you out. Please allow sufficient time for us to get the student out of class.

If you would like us to release your child without you signing them out, the following procedure must be followed in accordance with HISD policy:

  1. The student must submit a note to the Attendance Office before 1st period on the day of the request. The note needs to include the student’s first and last name, grade, date of the early dismissal request, time the student is to be released and reason. The note must also include a parent/guardian signature and phone number which we will call to verify the note before the student is released.
  2. The Attendance Office will then deliver a hall pass to the student which enables them to leave class at the designated time to go to the Attendance Office to sign out.
  3. When the student signs out, the Attendance Office will provide the student with a permit to leave campus. Students may only leave campus early from the Attendance office.

If you did not send a note with your child and cannot come to school, you may fax the note with the information indicated above to 281-920-8198 at least one hour prior to requested dismissal time.

In accordance with school policy, we will not release any student unless their parent/guardian signs them out or we have verified the written request.

STUDENTS
You may only leave campus early from the Attendance office! Be aware that if you leave campus without signing out, even if a parent has given permission, you will be subject to disciplinary action.

If you feel ill during school, ask your teacher for a permit and report to the Nurse’s Clinic (A121). The nurse will determine if you should be released and will contact your parent or guardian. If need be, your parent may authorize a relative to pick you up; the person must be listed on your records or written authorization must be provided. This can be faxed to 281-920-8198. Please note that if a student leaves the school without first going to the nurse, classes missed for the remainder of the day will be unexcused even if they return to school with a valid excuse.

No student (including those 18 years old) may leave school without parental consent.

Campus Visits

If you need to leave school early or will be absent because you are visiting a college or university, you must complete a Campus Visit Release Form (available in your dean’s office). Several signatures are required on this form so please plan ahead. Forms must be completed and submitted to the Attendance Office 48 hours in advance of the absence.

Verification of Enrollment (VOE)

You will need this form to acquire a driver’s permit or license. You may request a VOE form in the Attendance Office (A119); approved requests are filled in 24 hours. You will NOT be approved if you have more than 10 unexcused absences (full or part day) during the last school semester and can reapply at the end of the next semester. (You’ve got bigger problems if this is the case; better go back and read about loss of credit!) Unexcused absences for the VOE are counted using ADA data, school attendance taken during second period.

WORD TO THE WISE
The state mandates the requirements for issuing a VOE.  Unlike our credit appeal policy, the school does not have flexibility or discretion where the VOE is concerned.  A student will have to wait until the next semester to demonstrate an attendance record that meets the requirements for the issuance of a VOE. 

 

Health Concerns

Immunizations

The Texas Administrative Code requires that “every child in the state shall be immunized against vaccine preventable diseases caused by infectious agents.” (TAC RULE §97.63) A list of required vaccinations is available from our school nurse. If a student fails to comply, they will NOT be allowed to attend school (TAC RULE §97.66). Westside High School will notify the student in writing if they are out of compliance and will follow-up with a phone call to the parent or guardian. Please do NOT disregard this notice from our school nurse. It is your responsibility to be sure the school has your current address and phone number on file.

Temporary or Ongoing Medical Conditions

If your child has a temporary or ongoing medical condition that could (a) require medical attention at school, and/or (b) impact their ability to thrive in the school environment, we need to know. Please be sure both the school nurse and your child’s dean are made aware of the situation so we can respond appropriately to your child’s needs. In addition, HISD has resources available that may be of assistance to you. Personal medical information will be kept confidential.

Administering Medications at School

School Board Policy (in accordance with TEC §22.052) prevents nurses and teachers from administering medications of any kind at school without proper consent.  A student may NOT carry medication with him/her except for students with asthma. Medications are required to be kept locked in the Clinic. A written medication permission form with the original signatures of both a parent and the prescribing physician must accompany all medication including self-administration prescriptions for asthma. Each medication must be in its original container with an affixed prescription label listing the patient for whom the drug was prescribed, the drug name, and the proper dosage and administration route information. Medication and Treatment Forms are available in the Nurse’s Clinic.

WORD TO THE WISE!
These guidelines apply to ALL medications - both prescription and over-the-counter.

Counseling Services

The Westside High School Intervention Office provides both counseling services to students and their families. If you need someone to talk to about grief, substance abuse, trauma or family issues, we can help with supportive counseling and resource referrals. You are not alone! Parents can contact Janet Thies at extension 6190 or jthies@houstonisd.org. Students– feel free to come by room S241 during lunch or before or after school. We also sponsor a variety of guest speakers during the year to keep you informed about current issues important to high school students and their families; watch for upcoming “Hot Topics” sessions in the weekly news.

 

Dress Code-
Yes, we do have one!


The Westside High School Dress Code requires neat, clean, and appropriate dress and grooming. Students should be dressed in such a manner that their appearance in the school contributes to the learning process rather than interrupting the learning process. The dress code is in effect at all times while on the WHS campus or while attending any HISD/WHS sponsored event. Appropriateness of dress shall be the judgment of the administration. Administrative decisions will be final.

Dress code guidelines are subject to change during the school year if necessary to ensure the safety and climate of academia.

Consequences for violations of dress code:

Students who are dressed inappropriately will be assigned an after school detention or lunch clean up duty.  In addition, the student will be required to change into appropriate clothing prior to attending class.  If it is not feasible for the student to change, he/she will remain in ISS for the rest of the school day.  The student will be subject to additional disciplinary action if the student repeatedly violates the dress code. (See Failure to Comply with a Reasonable Request in HISD’s Code of Conduct).

WARNING
We will consider adopting a more restrictive dress code if the staff is taking too much time disciplining you for dress code violations.

 

Use of Electronic Devices
(Or how long can you live without your cell phone?)


Cell Phones, iPods, and other electronics are typically very expensive and we strongly encourage that these items are left at home to avoid theft or loss.  With so many children carrying various technology devices, and they have become a major source of class disruption; the popular camera phones provide new opportunities for cheating.  Should your child choose to bring any type of electronic device to school, they are to be turned off and out of sight during the school day (7:50 am-3:15 pm) except during the students’ lunch period while in the Commons and Courtyard. 

WORD TO THE WISE
We devote every possible human resource to teaching and learning.  While theft is an important issue, we must limit the time devoted to investigating a report, unless there is timely and factual information associated with the potential culprit.

Consequences of Electronic Device Violations

If a student violates the policy stated above, the phone or other electronic device will be confiscated. Cell phones may also be confiscated during the operation of school when it has been determined that the phone is causing a disruption or is interfering with a staff member (teacher, paraprofessional, or administrator) in their effort to properly supervise and maintain safety and order.
In order for the student to receive his/her phone or electronic device back, the student must:

There are no special exceptions! Do not ask a teacher to retrieve your phone or try to explain to your dean why you need it. Once the student’s phone has been confiscated, the only person allowed to release the phone back to the student is the clerk in the student services center, on Fridays, at the appropriate time after school. If you cannot manage without your phone, turn it off while at school!

WARNING
WHS will do everything possible to ensure the safe collection of a phone or electronic device picked up from a student in violation of the school rules.  However, WHS will not be financially responsible for any phone or electronic device or the replacement of that phone or device if it becomes missing from the school premises.  Again, we strongly encourage students to keep expensive equipment at home.

PARENTS
It is imperative that you understand these policies as well due to the financial implications and possible disruption to your routine when a device has been confiscated. In addition, please refrain from calling or texting your child (urgent or otherwise) when you know they are in class. Call the dean’s office and we will send for your child to relay your message.

Extenuating Circumstances with Confiscated Devices

If a cell phone or electronic device is involved in an ongoing disciplinary investigation, the administration may keep the device until the outcome of the investigation is finalized. 

If a student refuses to surrender the phone, three days of ISS will be assigned in addition to the consequences above. Repeat offenders will face longer confiscation periods and disciplinary action. Offenses during standardized testing will result in a two week confiscation period and disciplinary action.

Please remember…
There are numerous telephones in the building.  If an important call needs to be made, we will accommodate you and your child by allowing them to use the nearest phone. 

 

Public Displays of Affection

Public displays of affection are not allowed at Westside.  This issue is dealt with at the discretion of the teacher/administrator based on the severity of the incident, however students should be aware that inappropriate displays of affection are a typically considered a Level II or III misconduct in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.

 

Safety and Security

Identification

All students and faculty must wear their Westside ID on a lanyard around their neck and the ID must be visible at all times. Identification Badges are issued at the beginning of the year for no charge and lanyards can be obtained from any dean’s office. Off-Campus ID Badges cost $5. If a student does not have their official WHS ID, they must obtain a temporary one (valid for the day) from a dean’s office; the fee is $1 or the student can serve detention. Students with a temporary ID are not allowed off campus.

  • If you lose your ID, replacement badges are $5 and may be purchased in the Attendance Office before and after school and during lunch.
  • If you lose your Off-Campus ID, the replacement badge is $25. There will be no replacements issued for a 2nd loss; you’re back on campus!
STUDENTS
You are not allowed to wear or carry another student’s ID at any time―disciplinary action will result. WHS Student IDs are the property of Westside High School and must be relinquished upon request of a staff member.

Walking the Halls (Truancy)

Students must be in class for every period, every day. No student should be in the hallways or anywhere else on the WHS campus without a pass and an ID. Bathroom breaks should occur between classes. Students will only be allowed to leave in cases of emergency, and will be required to show a pass if they are found in the hallway during class periods. Students caught in a place where they are not supposed to be will receive a minimum of one day of In-School Suspension (ISS). Having a substitute teacher does not warrant any change in the above policies.

This year, there are a couple of changes regarding hall pass procedures. Hall passes will be color coded by House.  The hall pass will only be honored if the teacher has filled out the pass with the day, time, destination and signature of the teacher.  A student may receive ISS for not having a pass that is correctly filled out; don’t leave class without it! 

If students have planned activities (such as tutoring, club meetings or extra curricular meetings) and need access  to areas of the building before school, after school and at lunch, please ask your teacher or sponsor to provide an orange club/activity pass in advance.  This pass, also fully filled out and signed by the teacher, will allow the student access into the areas of the building that are usually restricted during these times.

This revised hall pass procedure will facilitate building access for students with permission, keep others in their appropriate areas of the building and help administrative staff maintain a safe and secure school environment.

Supervision

Rest assured that our students are supervised while on the WHS campus. Our staff monitors the halls and common areas in between class periods and during lunch. Staff is also on duty outside the building immediately preceding and following the school day. In addition, we employ 3 security guards and have security cameras located throughout the building recording all day, every day. If your child ever has any concern regarding their safety, they should speak with their dean immediately.

Campus Visitors

All campus visitors must check in at the welcome desk or main office, provide proof of identification and wear a visitor’s badge on the front of their shirt. No exceptions!  Unless an appointment has been prearranged, we do not allow visitors during the lunch hour.  For the safety of our student body, all campus visitors who disrupt and/or fail to comply with these guidelines are subject to a trespassing citation from one of our campus officers.  Former students visiting the campus must be met in the office by a school administrator.

WORD TO THE WISE:
Though we welcome back our former students at WHS, eating lunch with friends, etc. in the Commons during lunch is strictly forbidden for safety purposes.

Canine Unit

As a means to ensure a safe campus at all times, a canine unit is routinely dispersed to secondary schools in HISD, including Westside High School.  The canine unit is trained to detect illegal items such as weapons and illegal substances.  The canine unit will typically search classrooms and parking areas on campus.  The canines are authorized to search parking areas within 300 feet of the campus.  If you have additional questions regarding this process, please do not hesitate to contact a dean, associate principal, or principal.  There will be no interference from individuals during this process, and in some circumstances, electronic devices will be confiscated to ensure an orderly and safe search by the canine unit.

 

Discipline and Privileges

We have high expectations for Westside students and are committed to creating an environment in which they can succeed. Disciplinary consequences are designed to deter the student from making errors in judgment or engaging in misconduct that interferes with the student’s (or other students’) ability to be academically successful. 

Code of Student Conduct

Developed by HISD and distributed to all parents and students, this booklet describes disciplinary offenses and how the district handles them. Parents are responsible for ensuring that their children adhere to the rules and conventions of proper behavior while at school. HISD has “zero tolerance” for student behavior that could disrupt instruction or pose safety hazards on HISD property or while at school-related events. The booklet includes a form that requires both the student’s and parent’s signatures and must be returned along with other forms in your packet.  To summarize, misconduct is categorized into five levels:

Level I:     Violation of classroom rules; generally corrected by the teacher or parent contact.
Level II:    Administrative/teacher intervention; generally more serious in nature or a repeated violation under Level I.
Level III:   Misconduct that disrupts the instructional process in class, at school, or school-related activities; repeated violation of Level I and II offenses; considered to be a serious offense.
Level IV:   Criminal offenses; any felony, whether school-related or not, are included here unless it is categorized as a                 Level V.  Such an offense requires removal of the     student to a Disciplinary Alternative Educational Program                 (DAEP).
Level V:    Acts of misconduct that may result in expulsion include, but are not limited to assault, possession of weapons, drug distribution, and other criminal offenses.

Disciplinary Measures and Terminology

Listed below is a brief explanation of the most commonly used disciplinary measures at WHS. 
Verbal Warning/Conf: One-on-one conference with student; directive may be given in writing.
Admin. Directive: Written directive signed by dean and student.
Detention: One hour after school, study materials are required, sustained silence.
Lunch Duty: Check in with dean, clean tables in commons for a period of 20-30 minutes, check out with dean.
Westside Work Force: Two hour detention on Saturday from 8-10; campus clean-up; essay/letter writing; study hall.
In School Suspension: Student attends school in one classroom for all periods; scheduled breaks; heightened structure; coursework provided by regular teacher; sustained silence; extra curricular participation is suspended on same day.
Off Campus Suspension: Student is prohibited from being on WHS campus and is prohibited from attending any HISD school related activities/events.
WHS-AEP: A form of alternative educational placement for serious or repeated Level III offenses located on the Westside campus.  Students are on a behavior contract, will not attend regular classes, and monitored more strictly in one classroom all day.  Normal student privileges are reduced greatly.  Placement is typically 5 days to 30 days.
Off Campus AEP: Level IV offenses ranging from 30-180 day placement.  Student is required to withdraw from WHS to attend a DAEP.

Westside High School Honor Code

The Westside High School community believes that integrity is the foundation of all learning.  Academic honesty positively affects student character, as well as family and community pride.  It is the right, privilege, and responsibility of all members in the community to contribute to and work in an environment of trust. Faculty, students, and parents are expected to take steps to stop any and all violations of the honor code.  Excellence exists only if learning takes place within a climate of trust, respect, responsibility, and honesty.

Cheating is…
Participating in a dishonest act or using the works, words, or ideas of another and claiming them as your own.
Examples include (but are not limited to):

Plagiarism is…
Using someone else’s ideas or words as your own without proper acknowledgement
Examples include:

Fraud is…
A deception deliberately practiced in order to secure unfair or unlawful gain
Examples include but are not limited to:

Penalties for Violating the Westside High School Honor Code:

Disciplinary Procedures for WHS Honor Code Violations:

Student Responsibilities:

Off Campus Privileges

There are two off-campus privileges, both subject to eligibility and requiring contracts: (1) Off Campus Lunch enables juniors or seniors to go home during the lunch period, and (2) Senior Off Campus allows seniors to leave school during 7th period. (There is NO off campus period on Thursdays.)

For Off-Campus Lunch, the students must

For Senior Off-Campus (7th Period Class), the student must:

A contract must be signed by the parent or guardian and duly notarized. In addition to the above, students must be registered and parked legally in the WHS Student Parking Lot. Off Campus Lunch privileges allow for the driver to transport up to 2 passengers who have contracts on file; students exercising Off-Campus Class Periods may not transport any passengers. Please note that the contract also includes additional provisions regarding loss of privileges and may be adjusted during the school year to address safety concerns.

WARNING
Make sure you understand the consequences of Off Campus violations; there’s more to it than losing this privilege. Read on!

Disciplinary Action in regards to violation of Off Campus Privileges (Level III offense):

 

Section II: Road to Graduation

Graduation Requirements


Degree Plans

There are two types of diplomas students can complete for graduation, Recommended and Distinguished. Students who will graduate in 2010 or before need 24 credits of course work and those graduating in 2011 or beyond need 26 total credits. The Four Year Plan provides more detailed information, but the following summarizes the Recommended Diploma requirements:

Graduation year

2008-2010

2011-

English (I, II, III, IV)

4 credits

4 credits

Speech (Communication Applications)

.5 credits

.5 credits

Math (Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II)**
With 1additional  math elective if Algebra 1 is from MS*

 

3 credits

 

4 credits

Science (IPC, Biology, Chemistry or Physics)**
With 1 science elective if IPC is from MS

 

3 credits

 

4 credits

Social Studies (World Geography, World History, U.S. History, US Government; taken in sequence)            

 

3.5 credits

 

3.5 credits

Economics

.5 credit

.5 credit

Foreign Language (other than English) all  in the same language

 

2 credits

 

2 credits

Health Education

.5 credit

.5 credit

Physical Education (Athletics, ROTC, Marching Band and other traditional P.E. classes)

 

1.5 credits

 

1.5 credits

Technology (one year in the same course; we offer several that qualify but keyboarding does not)

 

1 credit

 

1 credit

 Fine Arts (Theatre, Art, Music or Dance)

1 credit

1 credit

 Electives

3.5 credits

3.5 credits

 Total

24 credits

26 credits

*Math Models and Applications may be used as a math elective for those graduating 2011 and beyond. If any part of Algebra 1 was taken and passed in middle school, Pre-Calculus must be the fourth math class.             
**Required sequence of courses for all students. Three full credits must be earned in high school.

The Distinguished Diploma differs from the Recommended in that Foreign Language requires 3 credits in the same language (instead of 2) but only 2.5 credits are needed in Electives (instead of 3.5).

In addition, four advanced academic measures must be completed. These include (1) score of 3 or higher on an Advanced Placement exam; (2) college course; (3) independent research project; and/or (4) Commended Scholar or higher (based on PSAT scores). There are specific requirements for some of these advanced measures; please discuss this with your dean.

The Four-Year Plan and Credit Check List

Westside deans use two documents to help ensure students stay on track for graduation. The Four-Year Plan is set up as a grid with the seven class periods listed for each of the four years. It includes graduation requirements and a place to record grades and passing TAKS scores. Every spring, deans meet with each student to develop or update the plan and help students decide when they need to take what class to meet graduation academic and credit requirements. A copy of this document will be sent home with the students. Parents are encouraged to make an appointment with the dean if they would like to be present during the development or review of the four year plan. 

The Credit Checklist is a more comprehensive document maintained by your child’s dean to record academic history on an individual student.  In addition to information on course grades, credits and TAKS testing, the checklist also provides the dean with SAT/ACT scores, hobbies/interests, career path, GPA, etc. In addition to the spring planning session, deans meet each student to review their academic history and Four-Year Plan in the fall semester.

Grade Point Average (GPA) Scale and Calculation

Westside’s GPA scale is on a 4.0 weighted scale.  The scale is 4.0, but students can exceed the 4.0 by enrolling and completing PreAP or AP courses, which are weighted.

Many students and parents often wonder how to compute GPA.  In a nutshell, each semester course grade is converted to a point system.  The points are added, then divided by the number of credit courses taken.  PreAP and AP courses carry an extra grade point. 

For example:  A student earns a 72, 80, 92, 79, in four academic courses, and an 82, 95, and 90 in his/her PreAP courses. 
72=1
80=3                        82=4
92=4                        95=5
79=2                        90=5
10    +          14         = 24     divided by 7 courses  = 3.428 GPA     

Academic Course  Grade 

Pt.

PreAP/AP Course Grade 

Pt.

70-74

1

70-74

2

75-79

2

75-79

3

80-89

3

80-89

4

90-100

4

90-100

5

PASS/FAIL Waiver

Westside faculty/staff voted to approve the PASS/FAIL waiver during the 2006-2007 school year to allow students to continue in enrichment classes (beyond requirements for graduation) without negatively impacting their GPA. This waiver provides a pass/fail grade as opposed to a numeric grade and is not calculated into a student’s grade point average.

Class Rank

Class rank is limited to the senior class.  Underclassmen ranks are not computed.  Students and parents can meet with the child’s dean to address individual concerns related to class rank.

Transcripts

A transcript is the official record of a student’s grade reports and test scores. A student or parent can request a transcript by filling out a transcript request form in the Registrar’s Office during school hours. There is a $1 charge per transcript.  An unofficial transcript can be given to the student, but an official transcript must be sealed and mailed to the requested institution.   Transcripts are usually sent or can be picked up within 3 days of the request, however there are certain times during the school year that it may take longer so please plan ahead.  “Final Transcripts” refer to the transcript that bears the date of graduation. Please note that Final Transcripts are typically mailed mid-June after all year-end updating is completed which satisfies the deadline (prior to their fall semester) of most universities.

 

Grades

Report Cards and Progress Reports

Parents, the two most important things you can do to ensure success in high school are (1) making sure your child attends school, every day, on time, and (2) monitoring progress reports and report cards. Please remember that a passing grade is 70 and above. Also look at both the unexcused and excused absences. Credit will be denied due to excessive absence (noted by an asterisk *), so make sure you read our Attendance Policy in Section I and stay on top of this! Finally, check the conduct grades; anything less than “S” (satisfactory) is impacting your child’s ability to learn. You actually have 5 opportunities (3 progress reports and 2 interim report cards) to identify and address any problem before semester grades. Report cards go home every 6 weeks (see dates below) and progress reports are generated halfway through each grading period. Ask to see them!

First Semester Report Cards: October 15, November 19, January 14
Second Semester Report Cards: March 4, April 22, June 10

PARENTS
If a student does not bring home their report card or progress report, CALL THE SCHOOL or HOUSE SECRETARY! Many times, students are anxious about their grades and simply don’t want to share them with their parent. 

Credit Appeal

If a student has been denied credit for a semester course (noted by an asterisk * on the report card) due to excessive absence, you may be able to petition for credit appeal. (See Section I: Attendance). Please make sure you and your child understand the policy and consequences.

Composite Grading (Whole Course Credit)

Whole course credit is a policy that allows for the averaging of semester grades in an A/B sequential course to enable a student to receive credit for the year-long course, in spite of having failed the first semester. It applies to preparatory core courses only (math, English, social studies and science); AP and Pre-AP courses are not eligible. The first semester (A portion) grade must be 60-69 and students must pass the second semester (B portion) with sufficient total points to average 70 or higher (140 points or more when combined.) If a student must do a credit appeal for the second semester course in order to receive credit due to excessive unexcused absences, that course is not eligible to be used for composite grading. Students who transfer to school mid-year with a failing grade in one of the approved classes will be eligible for whole course credit. The policy is designed to encourage students who are struggling in a course to get tutorial help and afford them the opportunity to earn full credit. Applications are available in your dean’s office and should be completed immediately following the fall semester.

Credit Recovery/Summer School

Credit recovery refers to re-taking a course in which a student received a failing grade (69 or lower). There are a variety of options available to students, most involving summer school. It is essential that the student meet with their dean to discuss options in order to stay on track for graduation. 

Course Failure

Course failure will result if a student has received a grade of 69 or lower, or the student has lost credit due to absences.  It is important for students and parents to know that once a course failure has occurred (even if it was a high school credit course taken in middle school), it can never be replaced with another passing grade.  The student can retake the course and the new grade will be averaged in with the student’s cumulative GPA, but again, it doesn’t replace the failing grade.

Tutorials

While we’ve addressed Credit Recovery and Composite Grading, it is obviously best not to need them in the first place. The first step is attendance; we can’t teach if you’re not here to learn. The second step is getting help. Every faculty member wants every student to pass their class and tutorials are offered before school, during lunch and/or after school in every subject. Whether you’ve missed school or simply don’t understand the subject matter, it doesn’t take much to fall behind and start a downward spiral. Do NOT wait until you are failing and are required to attend tutorials. Take the initiative and get help early; you’ll be surprised how one or two sessions can put you back on track! Ask your teacher when tutorials are available or speak with your dean.

STUDENTS
Get help early! One voluntary session can save you 6 weeks of required tutorials. If you’re still having difficulty, talk to your dean.

Intervention Office

The Westside High School Intervention Office provides academic intervention to students who are at risk of dropping out of high school due to academic problems and have a variety of resources to help you recover credit for failed classes and get you back on track to earn your diploma. Students can come by room S241 during lunch or before or after school or contact Janet Thies at extension 6190 or jthies@houstonisd.org.

 

Parent Meetings

Parent meetings are held periodically to provide important information. They are designed to address specific topics for a given audience at the appropriate time in your child’s high school experience. There is simply too much information to include in a handbook and you’re probably just skimming this as it is!

The easiest way to take advantage of parent meetings is to subscribe to the WHS Weekly Newsletter (online) and/or check our website at www.westsidewolves.org.  Westside will also take advantage of our call out system to notify parents of upcoming meetings.  In this case, you will receive a pre-recorded message indicating the time, place, and purpose of the meeting.

PARENTS
Please make it a point to attend Parent Meetings! They are designed to provide information you need, when you need to know it.

 

Class Meetings

Students, these meetings are for you! They are held periodically during the school year at lunch on Wednesdays or Thursdays. Traditionally freshmen and seniors have more frequent meetings; freshmen to get oriented to high school, and seniors to prepare for graduation and college. Sophomores and juniors meet to discuss the PSAT and provide guidance to ensure they are staying on track. When meetings are called, do NOT miss them!

 

College Advising

Micki Karacek, our College Advisor, is available to counsel both parents and students as they prepare to navigate the college application process. Information will be provided to our seniors during the first few weeks of school. If you still have questions or need assistance, students can find Ms. Karacek in A205; parents, please call to set up an appointment. All information pertaining to college (college visits, financial aid, etc.) will be posted in each small school as it becomes available. All students and parents are encouraged to attend College Night at WHS on Wednesday, October 15 at 6:00 pm in the Commons. Representatives from a multitude of colleges and universities across the country will be here to provide information and answer questions.

A College Planning Booklet that outlines the application process and provides information on related topics is provided to students their junior year at Westside.  (Parents or students may request one from Ms. Karacek at any time or download a copy from our website.) Information on college entrance exams (including testing dates, fees and deadlines) can be found at www.collegeboard.com for the SAT and at www.act.org for the ACT. Students are also encouraged to sign up on MyRoad, the collegeboard.com college and career planning website.

WORD TO THE WISE
Registering for the SAT or ACT is the student’s responsibility. While WHS is one of many testing centers, we have no active role in registering students for college entrance exams.

Prep HQ, a new web-based program recently purchased by HISD, is an exceptional tool which allows the College Center to communicate information on upcoming events, college planning, scholarships, summer programs, and financial aid.  HISD regularly downloads student data, allowing both the student and their parents to view individual demographic information, GPA/Rank, test information including PSAT, SAT, ACT scores, courses and grades. Students will be able to monitor college applications, create resumes, track community service hours, complete surveys, and view an interactive 4 year planner.

Students will register for Prep HQ at school. In order for parents to view all the data available, you will need your child’s user name and password. We also recommend that you add your email (under settings) so that you will also receive important notifications.

 

Section III: Communication

 News and Information

Joining the WHS List Serve

The List Serve is an email database of WHS parents and community members. During the school year, a newsletter is sent out every Monday to keep you abreast of what’s going on at Westside. Calendar events, policy changes or reminders, and student and staff achievements are sent in text format with a link to the actual newsletter (an easy read format in color with photos) posted on our website. We also use the List Serve on occasion to send out special news bulletins. You can subscribe by using the link on our homepage or simply send an email to dbaron@houstonisd.org with “subscribe to list serve” in the subject line.

WORD TO THE WISE
The WHS Community List Serve is the best way to stay informed, so we strongly recommend you subscribe!

Website

Our website is your primary source of information. You can access it at www.westsidewolves.org.  When you have a question, this is your first stop! The weekly news, school calendar, policies and procedures, staff directory, and most of the general information you’ll need are all a click away. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please contact Diana Baron at dbaron@houstonisd.org.

Call Out System

When there is important information to relay to parents we will utilize the HISD Call Out System. You will receive a pre-recorded message on your home phone number.  This is extremely effective, but only when we have correct phone numbers on file.  Be sure you phone numbers are updated by contacting the Attendance Office.

 Westside Wire

The Westside Wire is a quarterly print newsletter mailed to the home of every student. It is published and paid for by the PTO and provides a look ahead with upcoming calendar events, news and informative articles about WHS. We rely on this publication to get news to ALL Westside parents as not everyone has access or utilizes the internet. Please join the PTO! Your dues help pay for the printing and mailing expenses as well as other worthwhile projects and services.

 The Howler

The Howler is the Westside student newspaper. It is published 3-4 times each semester by and for students and is distributed at school. The newspaper is edited by the staff sponsor.  A newspaper class (elective credit) is offered during the school day for interested students.  Journalism I (and a dean/staff recommendation) is a pre-requisite.

 Announcements

Two venues for public announcements are utilized within the school:  Television broadcast and PA system announcements are made daily.  Occasionally, it will be necessary to use the PA system at other times, but it is reserved for pertinent information only.

 

Contacting Westside

Our goal is to provide a quality education in a safe environment and the welfare of your child is of primary importance. We value parental involvement and ask for your assistance in an attempt to improve communication between home and school. You can help by using this handbook and/or our website to answer your general questions; this will minimize the phone calls and email and improve our response time.

If you need to contact a specific staff member or department, the preferred method is via email. While you should receive a response fairly quickly, please allow our staff 48 hours to reply. All email addresses are listed on our website. If you have a more immediate concern or do not have internet access, please don’t hesitate to call. Our phone number is 281-920-8000 and you can find staff extension numbers on the web. Extensions beginning with “8” are direct lines and can be reached by dialing 281-920-extension; for extensions beginning with “6”, dial the main number first and then the extension when prompted.

Please keep in mind that our teachers spend most of their time in the classroom and the administrators are frequently in meetings or attending matters on campus and therefore are typically unable to answer your call. While calls should be returned within 48 hours, if you have an immediate concern and have been unable to reach the individual you need, please call your dean’s secretary.

Administrators, Deans and Small School Secretaries

Principal                         Paul Castro
Associate Principal           Barbara Neal
Principals’ Secretary         Rita Lopez

Administrators, Deans and Small School Secretaries

Principal                         Paul Castro
Associate Principal           Barbara Neal
Principals’ Secretary         Rita Lopez

The Business Academy (East 1, Extension 6099)
Deans: Alaina Turner*, Monica Williams, Lia Nguyen
House Secretary: Michelle Mulcahey

Media Relations and Law (East 2, Extension 6015)
Deans: Marcy Baez*, Gina Morris, Drew Bissell
House Secretary: Lee Brochu

Computing Sciences & Engineering
(North 1, Extension 6014)
Deans: Lori Lambropoulos*, Valerie Leverett, Michelle Griggs
House Secretary: Melinda Perez

Applied Science & Health Professions
(North 2, Extension 6098)
Deans: Cheryl Williams*, Erik Ostergren, Tracy Portis
House Secretary: Susan Jordan

Academy of Fine Arts (South 2, Extension 6223)
Deans: Jason Catchings*, Karen Shaw, Nadine Ghosn
Secretary: Sandra Vargas

* denotes Small School Administrators

 

Curriculum Directors

Athletics                              Mark Byrd
English Language Arts          Marilyn Hagans
Foreign Language                Jennifer Aliaga
Magnet                               Noelle Stockman
Math                                   Cedric French
Performing Arts                   Tony Wallin
ROTC                                Keith Kalman
Science                                Carolyn Klein
Social Studies                       Donna Patch
Technology                         Yolanda McCall
Visual Arts                           Karen Hunter

Other Important Contacts

Advanced Placement            Stephanie Matlock
Attendance                          Alma Douwaji
Booster Clubs                      Alaina Turner, Cheryl Byrd-Williams
Bus Transportation               Mary Hansen
Call Out System                   Drew Bissell
Clubs and Organizations       Libbi Smith
Communications                  Diana Baron
Counselors                          Beth Bogan, Micki Karacek
Dual Credit                         Lori Lambropoulos
ESL/LEP                           Marcy Baez
Facility Reservations              Diana Baron
Fundraising                          Barbara Neal
Gifted and Talented             Stephanie Matlock
Intervention Office               Janet Thies, Joy Maguire
Librarian                             Steve Harrison
Magnet Office                     Noelle Stockman, Karen Shaw
Registrar                              Caroline Stento
Safety and Security               Jason Catchings
School Nurses                     Martha Allbright, Linda Sumpter
Security                               Victor Hernandez
Special Education                 Shalyn Habermacher, Tracy Portis
Testing                                Beth Bogan
Textbooks                           Valerie Leverett
Title 1                                 Drew Bissell
Website                               Diana Baron, Susan Boone, Helen Pham
504 Coordinator                  Monica Williams

Troubleshooting

Education extends beyond the classroom and we encourage our students’ to make an attempt at resolving their own problems. That being said, you are the best judge as to when your child needs support, so please get involved whenever you see fit. The process is the same.

If you have a concern regarding a particular class or teacher, please contact the teacher first. If it is not resolved and the issue involves curriculum, contact the department curriculum director. If you are still not satisfied, or the issue does not involve curriculum, contact your (child’s) dean. The majority of issues can be resolved through these steps; however, please contact the Principal if you still have concerns.

If you have personal questions not related to a class, use the contacts listed here or call the dean’s secretary in your house to direct you to the appropriate person.

If you have general questions and cannot find the information here or on the website, contact the main office or Communications Director.

Section IV: Getting Involved

 Student Opportunities

Make the most out of your high school years! While we hope you will jump out of bed at the crack of dawn in anticipation of learning algebra, finding an extracurricular interest adds a whole other dimension to high school life. Our size enables WHS to offer a multitude of sports, as well as a variety of performing and visual arts. Meet other students who share similar interests! If you do not find a club offering that intrigues you, why not start your own? All you’ll need is a faculty sponsor and 15 interested students to get it going.

Clubs/Organizations 

There are numerous reasons to get involved in one or more clubs or organizations on campus.  Colleges consider strongly a student’s well-roundedness and contributions to his/her school for admission and scholarship consideration.  In addition, it helps students feel a larger sense of belonging and connectedness to the school and friends.  It also fosters a positive socialization aspect of high school.  With more than 40 clubs and organizations, Westside has a plethora of opportunities for students to get involved.  Watch for Rush Week in September when students will receive more detailed information on our organizations and have an opportunity to try some out to find a good fit.

Athletic Oriented Programs

Baseball

Basketball

Cheerleading

Dance

Drill Team (Pride)

Football 

Golf

Lacrosse

Rugby

Soccer

Softball  

Swimming

Tennis

Volleyball

Water Polo

Wrestling

Performing and Visual Art Programs

Band

Ceramics

Choir

Dance

Digital Photo Art

Drawing

Jazz Band

Orchestra

ROTC Rifle Team

Sculpture

Thespians

 

Student Government

Student Council officers are elected for each of the four classes (seniors, junior, sophomore and freshmen) along with a representative from each homeroom. Elections are held during the spring semester for the following year’s returning class officers and shortly after school begins for the entering freshmen class and all homeroom representatives.

Student Forums

Student Forums are informal sessions where students meet with Principal Castro to discuss a variety of topics. These bi-monthly meetings will be held during both lunches and attendance is open to all interested students.

 

Parent Opportunities

Westside High School Parent Teacher Organization

The Westside high School Parent Teacher Organization (WHS PTO) welcomes you to the 2008-9 school year!   Students have ample opportunities at Westside to find themselves and enrich their education.  And like their children, parents have similar opportunities for involvement.

The objective of the PTO is to enhance the overall educational experience of all Westside students.  We try to accomplish that by providing both man-hours and financial resources.  We provide staff appreciation, electronic classroom aids, student appreciation, landscaping, scholarships, other equipment and supply needs not furnished by the district, as well as match volunteers to different areas of the school (attendance, bookroom, library, etc.) and for various activities such as UIL competitions and field trips.  In addition, the PTO works to foster the communication between the school and its students and parents by supplying parent information packets for the first day of school, directional signage outside our campus, student directories, the quarterly newsletter the Westside Wire, the Welcome Desk, hosting speakers from WHS and HISD at our meetings, and sponsorship of the Back-to-School Bash.  Good communication is vital to our school community and to the success of our students.

There are several ways you can support the PTO:

  • Join the PTO—our membership form is on the school and PTO websites and in the first day packets.
  • Come to PTO meetings the first Tuesdays of each month, at 7:00 p.m. in the library.  Everyone is welcome!  Our meetings are always listed on the school’s calendar on the website and in the e-newsletter.
  • Participate in the PTO’s Dollars for Scholars campaign.
Thank you in advance for your support of the WHS PTO!  Contact Kelly Simmons at kelsandel@earthlink.net with your questions or suggestions.

 Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS)

There are a host of volunteer needs at Westside, and we welcome all interested individuals and business partners to participate in our VIPS (Volunteers in Public Schools) program.  Volunteering is a great way to be an active participant in your child’s educational experience.  It is a known fact that schools with an active volunteer base are more successful than those without this support.  We encourage you to give of your time and expertise to help contribute to the success of all Westside students.

To begin volunteering, please complete the Volunteer Interest Form found in the forms packet along with the HISD background check form.  This will help us match your interests with the needs of the school.  As our main method of communication is by e-mail, it is very important that we have an accurate e-mail address.  Return these forms to the Main Office at the school.  When you come to the school to volunteer, please check in at the welcome desk or Main Office and wear an ID badge.  If you will be a recurring volunteer, you may have an ID badge made in the attendance office after the first two weeks of school.

A sampling of areas where Westside needs your help include:  Library, Book Room, Tutoring, Food and Baked Goods, Landscaping, Homecoming, Attendance Office and Football Ticket Sales.  Many other areas are listed on the Volunteer Interest Form.   For further information, contact Cathy McDonnell at cmcdonnell935@sbcglobal.net or Shelby Doehring at sdoehring@att.net. 

PARENTS
Education based research and data suggests that success of students is directly affected by parental involvement.  Please take advantage of the many opportunities at Westside.

Athletic Booster Club (ABC)

The Westside High School Athletic Booster Club (ABC) looks forward to another year of outstanding athletics.  During the school’s first 7 years Westside teams have won numerous district championships, many post-season games, have had several individual state champions and one team state champion.  We wish each of the teams continued success this year and look forward to watching each of the over 1000 Westside student-athletes grow in their ability, their sportsmanship, and their character. 

The ABC has two main goals.  The first is to raise funds to supplement those provided by the school district so that our student-athletes have the facilities, coaching, and equipment needed to participate in a wide variety of sports in a safe and competitive manner.  The ABC will also award scholarships to the Outstanding Student-Athletes named by the administration at the end of the school year.  Our second goal is to help promote community awareness and involvement in Westside athletics.   Once again the ABC will publish the Westside Wolves Football Programs