The Westside Way
Student/Parent Handbook 2011-2012

Manual para Estudiantes y Padres de la Escuela Secundaria Westside
2011-2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION I: 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
SECTION II: THE ROAD TO GRADUATION
Graduation Requirements
	Degree Plans
	Four-Year Plan
	GPA Scale and Calculation
	Pass/Fail Waiver
	Class Rank
	Transcripts
Grades
	Grading Policy Report Cards and Progress Reports
	Credit Appeal
	Composite Grading (Whole Course Credit)
	Credit Recovery
	Course Failure
	Tutorials
	Intervention
Parent Meetings
Class Meetings
College Advising
SECTION III: COMMUNICATION
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
SECTION IV: GETTING INVOLVED
Student Opportunities
	Clubs and Organizations
	Athletic Oriented Programs
	Performing and Visual A\rts 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 SDMC
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 a 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 each semester (per semester course) to allow for occurrences such as these. Extreme bad luck notwithstanding, 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 your academic grade! If a student exceeds the allowable number of unexcused absences in a semester high school course (more than 5 per semester course as noted above), credit will be denied as designated by an asterisk (*) on the grade report.

WARNING
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. You don’t want to go down this road if you can avoid it!

Credit appeal is the responsibility of the student. We cannot stress enough the importance of students and parents/guardians being aware of grade and attendance reporting which are distributed every three weeks. That being said, if you have lost credit in a fall semester course due to excessive unexcused absences, you will receive a “Loss of Credit Notice” distributed at school shortly after report cards go home in January. If you have lost or are in jeopardy of losing credit in a spring semester course, you will be notified during the semester to begin making up the hours. If you think you will need to appeal but have not received a notice, speak with your dean.

Forms include student and course information and instructions for completing the credit appeal. You will be required to make up one hour per unexcused absence (per course). Hours can be accumulated only at Westside High School by attending study halls or tutorials listed on the notification form. You must submit documentation of service hours, your report card and the Loss of Credit Notice signed by you and your parent by the deadline indicated.

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 you do not make it to class by the time the bell rings, report to your house office. For a permit to class. Once a student has accumulated a total of three tardies for the semester, a detention will be assigned.
• If you are more than 10 minutes late arriving to class, report to your dean’s office. You will receive a detention notice (if applicable), a permit to class and you will be marked absent for that period.
• If you are late because of a doctor’s/dentist’s appointment and have a note or if your HISD bus is late, go to the Attendance Office (A119) and get your permit to class. Notes from a parent for any other tardiness will be reviewed by the dean’s office and you will be directed to the Attendance Office if it qualifies as an HISD excused absence.

 

Failure to attend detention may result in an escalation through the discipline options. Students who are repeatedly tardy will be assigned escalating consequences based on the Student Code of Conduct.

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:

• 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 for the dismissal. The note must also include a parent/guardian signature and phone number which we will use to call to verify the note before the student is released.
• 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.
• 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. They may not leave directly from the classroom.

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 house or attendance 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.

HISD allows students to be absent from school one day each semester of their senior year to visit college campuses. In addition, Westside High School will excuse an additional 3 days of absences for this purpose. An official letter from the college (printed on a college’s letterhead) that verifies the campus visit must be submitted to the attendance office within 3 days of returning to school.

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 partial day) during the last school semester. You will need to 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 his/her 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
Westside High School has two Licensed Clinical Social Workers on staff to assist students, families, and school personnel.  Lara Hulin is located in S241 and can be reached by phone at 281-920-8000, ext 6190 and Joy Maguire is located in N207 and can be reached by phone at 281-920-8081.  As members of the educational team, Social Workers address barriers to student success and promote well-being.  In addition to supportive counseling, Social Workers offer crisis intervention, run several programs, assist with drug and alcohol intervention, and provide consultation to parents, teachers, and administrators. 

Dress Code- Updated for the 2011-2012 School Year

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 assessed by the administration. Administrative decisions will be final.

• Skirts/shorts may be no more than 3 finger-widths above the kneecap;
• Neither “jeggings”, leggings, tights, or dance pants are permitted.
• Jeans with holes are not permitted. Tights or leggings underneath do not compensate for the holes.
• Shirts must overlap pants by two inches; midriffs should not be visible even with arms raised above the head.
• Graphics/photos on clothing/backpacks must not allude to violence, gangs, sex, drugs, alcohol or other lawlessness; the same applies to jewelry and other types of accessories.
• Slippers, pajama pants, nor blankets may not be worn at school. Neither stuffed animals nor pillows are to be carried.
• Over-sized, baggy clothing is not acceptable.  Boys’ boxer shorts and/or basketball shorts should not be visible when worn under jeans or shorts. No “sagging;”
• Boys may not wear tank tops or sleeveless shirts.
• Girls may not wear tank tops, racer back shirts, spaghetti-strapped shirts (“cami’s”) or off the shoulder shirts. Vests worn over such tops do not suffice. Undergarments, including bra straps, should not be visible. Cleavage should not be visible.
• Girls may not wear Soffee shorts (or similar short knit athletic shorts).
• No headwear may be worn. This includes but is not limited to baseball caps (even Westside ones), bandanas, wave cap, knitted hats, etc. These must be placed out of sight (locker or backpack) upon entering the building. Exceptions for the head-wear policy will be made only for religious or medical reasons.
• Long/oversized coats must be kept in the student’s locker during the school day;
• Chains hanging from jeans are not acceptable.
• If dress/accessories seemingly fit(s) the profile of gang affiliation, administration reserves authority to disallow it.

Westside High School administration reserves the right to determine if a student’s dress is a disruption to the educational process. All decisions are final.

Consequences for violations of dress code:
Consequences may vary based on the severity of the violation.

• First offense: Student may be given the opportunity to change into clothes provided by the school. (If not feasible the student will be sent to ISS.) He/she will be given a written warning. Parents will be notified by telephone of the infraction.
• Second offense: Student may be given the opportunity to change into clothes provided by the school. (If not feasible the student will be sent to ISS.) He/she will be assigned detention. Parents will be notified by telephone of the infraction.
• Third offense: Student will be assigned ISS for the remainder of the day. Parents will be notified by telephone of the infraction.
• Fourth offense: Students will be suspended for the day.
• Confiscated hats or accessories must be picked up by the parent. They will not be returned directly to the student. At the end of the year, unclaimed hats will be donated.

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 they have become a major source of class disruption; for example, 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 during the school day (7:45 am-3:15 pm) except during the lunch period. Headphones/ear buds may not be visible or worn during the school day except during the lunch period.

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 by any staff member present. Cell phones may also be confiscated anytime 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 electronic device back, the student must:

1. Pay a $15 fine to Ms. Kleis in the main office (before school, at lunch or after school). Students must pay cash and have correct change to pay the fine; AND
2. Wait until the following Friday (if confiscated on a Thursday or Friday, it will be retrieved the following Tuesday) after school to pick up the phone or the electronic device. The student will have between 3:20pm to 4:00pm to retrieve the phone from the Main Office with his/her $15 dollar receipt. Again, phones confiscated on a Thursday or Friday will not be released until the following Tuesday.
   

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 school secretary in the Main Office can only release it, 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 electronic devices 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 an electronic device, a minimum of 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 may 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 must wear their Westside ID, on a lanyard around their neck, 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 his/her official WHS ID, he/she 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. Repeat offenders are subject to disciplinary actions in accordance to the student code of conduct.

1. If you lose your ID, replacement badges are $5 and may be purchased in the Attendance Office before and after school and during lunch.
2. 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
Students who deface the ID will be responsible for purchasing a new ID and may suffer disciplinary consequences. IDs must be able to be scanned at all times. 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.

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 a 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 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 security guards and have security cameras located throughout the building recording all day, every day. If your child ever has any concern regarding his/her safety, he/she should speak with their dean immediately.

PARENTS
Please note that unless your child is in a supervised club/ organization meeting, tutorials, rehearsal or with an athletic team, direct supervision remains until 3:45pm.

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. 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.
Administrative Directive: Written directive signed by dean and student.                           
Sparkle Duty: Check in with Dean on duty, clean tables for last 25 minutes of lunch.
Detention: One hour after school, study materials are required, sustained silence.     
School-wide Detention: Two to Four Hour detention requiring study materials and sustained silence (generally more serious or repeated discipline violations).
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 for the duration of the assignment. Placement can be from 1 to 10 days.
Off Campus Suspension: Student is prohibited from being on WHS campus and is prohibited from attending any HISD school related activities/events.
Off Campus AEP: Level III/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):

1. Using any form of a “cheat-sheet”
2. Viewing unauthorized notes on a test or quiz
3. Looking at another student’s test or paper
4. Accepting credit for group or lab work in which you did not contribute
5. Taking a picture or making a copy of a test or answer sheet
6. Passing test or quiz information from one class to another
7. Sharing or stealing test answers
8. Having your parents or friends complete your assignments
9. Using a previous student’s work as your own
10. Buying a paper or project
11. Changing or reporting a false grade for yourself or another student
12. Allowing someone to use your answers as their own

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

1. Copying documents or images from books, magazines, the Internet or other sources without proper documentation
2. Submitting a paper or other work as your own when it was created by another
3. Paraphrasing or restating another’s work without proper citations
4. Making up a citation or attributing a work to a non-existent source
5. “Fudging” data for an assignment            
6. Forging a signature 

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

1. Attempting to pass off someone else’s work, imagery or technology as your own, purchasing or selling an assignment from another person or technological resource
2. Falsifying scientific or other data submitted for academic credit
3. Forgery of signatures or tampering with official records   

Penalties for Violating the Westside High School Honor Code:

1. A student “shall receive a ‘0’ for the school work,” and is “subject to a ‘U’ in conduct and disciplinary action (including loss of Off Campus and Extracurricular Activity privileges).  In addition, this conduct is considered a Level II violation of the Code of Student Conduct. Please consult the appropriate department policy for more information regarding whether any possibility of a retake exists.
2. In cases where theft of material or use of a computer has been used in the cheating incident, a disciplinary hearing will be held to determine if an alternative educational placement is warranted.
3. A student is not eligible for a final exam exemption in a course where he or she has a documented instance of cheating.
4. Many college applications request information on any instances of student cheating.  Keep in mind that the school must be factual and honest when completing the school report on any individual student.

Disciplinary Procedures for WHS Honor Code Violations:

1. Teacher will clearly state facts regarding the violation on the referral.
2. Teacher will notify parents about the incident.
3. Administrator will immediately assign penalties based on established guidelines.
4. Administrator will inform teacher of disciplinary action.                 

Student Responsibilities:

1. To maintain and support the academic integrity of the school community by completing all assigned work, activities and tests in an honorable process according to the stated policies without engaging in cheating, fraud, or plagiarism.
2. To understand the school-wide Honor Code policy and individual teacher assignment guidelines
3. To clarify with the instructor any ambiguities about violations of the Honor Code on an assignment.
4. To ensure that students do not make inappropriate use of their work

Off Campus Privileges
There are two off-campus privileges, both subject to eligibility and requiring contracts: (1) Home Lunch Period 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.)

Home Lunch Period
The students must do the following to maintain participation:

1. be classified as a Junior or Senior;
2. have passing grades in all classes on Report Cards;
3. have no outstanding credit appeal attendance issues as indicated by an asterisk (*) on Report Cards;
4. attend lunch tutorials as assigned for students who have not passed all portions of the TAKS test
5. return to class on-time following the Home Lunch period
6. have paid PSAT dues in A205 (Ms. Bogan);
7. submit a signed and notarized Home Lunch Consent Form; the form requires the dean’s signature if submitted after the first report card (October 7, 2011)
8. pay $5 for the Home Lunch ID and $20 for a lost ID (no replacements for 2nd loss). The ID must be presented to leave campus.

Loss or Privilege results when the student:

1. has a failing grade or loss of credit on any Report Card. Privilege will be reinstated when the requirement is satisfied on the next grade report (Progress Report of Report Card).
2. repeatedly fails to attend TAKS Tutorials or has excessive absences or tardies following lunch as determined by an administrator. Students are eligible for reinstatement on the next grade report (Progress Report or Report Card).
3. has failed to pay PSAT fee as determined by the College Center (A205).
4. transports unauthorized students off campus; additional discipline will occur.

Administration reserves the right to revoke the Home Lunch privilege due to violations of the Student Code of Conduct.

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

1. have successfully completed 20 credits prior to the beginning of their senior year and 23 credits prior to the spring semester;
2. submit a signed and notarized Off Campus Consent Form
3. pay $5 for the Off Campus ID and $20 for a lost ID (no replacements for 2nd loss).

Administration reserves the right to revoke off-campus privileges due to failing grades, unsatisfactory conduct or poor attendance.

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)

1. A driver who transports unauthorized student(s) off campus is taking the lives of other students in his/her hands without said student’s parent/guardian’s knowledge. This is an extremely serious offense. Therefore, a minimum of   in-school suspension will be assigned and off campus privileges may be revoked for the driver.
2. A student without proper identification or who is unauthorized to leave campus will receive an assignment to ISS and may lose the opportunity to leave campus for the remainder of the school year. An underclassman may not be able to apply for off campus privileges in the following eligible semester.

WORD TO THE WISE:
Policies and Procedures are subject to change. Any revisions will be publicized in the weekly news and the on-line version of the Westside Way updated.

Section II: Road to Graduation

Graduation Requirements

Graduation requirements are those in effect the year a student enters high school as a freshman. They also vary by degree plan which include Core, Recommended and Distinguished. As most Westside students will follow the Recommended Degree Plan, what follows is a summary of these requirements for students entering ninth grade in 2010-11 and 2011-2012 and those entering in 2007-08 to 2009-10.While this information will assist you in developing your four-year plan, your dean will advise you to ensure graduation requirements are satisfied. If you began your freshmen year prior to 2007, please see your dean for the applicable graduation requirements.

Recommended Degree Program
Ninth Grade Students entering 2010-2011, 2011-2012

Students who have not tested Proficient on the TechLiteracy Assessment in Middle School will be required to complete one credit of Technology Applications to satisfy graduation requirements; this counts towards an Elective credit.

9th Grade Students entering 2007-2008 to 2009-2010

Distinguished Achievement Degree Program
The Distinguished Diploma differs from the Recommended in that World Language requires 3 credits in the same language (instead of 2) but one less credit in Electives. In addition, four of the following advanced academic measures must be completed in any combination. 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.

Core Degree Program
The Core Diploma (minimum high school program) calls for 24 credits but is no longer widely used as the required credits do not satisfy most four-year colleges. This program is available by dean recommendation only with signed parental permission.

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 with seniors and other students as needed 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, and 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. 

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, which has been renewed each year, 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, or delivered electronically 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. A “Final Transcript” refers 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
Grading Policy
The Westside Grading Policy for the 2011-2012 school year is as follows:

Retake policy:

Test/Major quiz (a quiz that is 25 or more minutes) dates are:

Parent Student Connect (PSC) is an HISD service that allows registered users (i.e., parents and students) to log in to view a student's grades as the data is inputted into the teacher’s GradeSpeed program. PSC also lets you view assignments, progress reports, attendance records, achievement test scores, report cards, and more. Users can also set up "triggers" that send an e-mail or text message if a child's grades drop below a selected average or a student is absent or tardy to class.  Information on how to register and use the program can be found on our Parent Student Connect webpage.

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 your child’s unexcused and excused absences for each class. 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 7, November 11, January 6
Second Semester Report Cards: February 24, April 13, June 8

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. 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, they must complete the credit appeal hours before the composite grading will be awarded. 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. The registrar will award the credit to all that qualify, there is no application necessary.

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. 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; teachers can’t teach you if you’re not here to learn. The second step is getting help. Every faculty member wants every student to pass their class. Tutorials are offered before school, during lunch and/or after school. Even if your teacher doesn’t have tutorials when you can attend, someone in that department probably does. 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.

Intervention
Westside High School Social Workers, Joy Maguire and Lara Hulin, provide intervention for students who are facing severe challenges at school.  School Social Workers offer assistance in various ways: counseling, goal setting, coping and social skills, conflict resolution, etc. If you feel that your child needs assistance, please contact your child’s dean for a referral.

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.

Meetings will be publicized in our WHS Weekly Newsletter (to subscribe, see Section III on Communication) or check our website at www.westsidewolves.org. Westside may also use 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 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

Alaina Turner, 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. Turner 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 Thursday, October 13 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. Turner 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.

Naviance is an exceptional web-based 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 Naviance at school. We also recommend that the parent registers to be a user connected to the child’s account so that the parent 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 via email. 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 nstockma@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 Noelle MacGregor at nstockma@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 broadcasts are made daily and announcements are also posted on the TVs in the Commons. The PA system is reserved for special administrative announcements 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                           Michael McDonough
Associate Principal             Barbara Neal
Principals’ Secretary           Rita Lopez

The Business Academy (East 1, Extension 6099)
Deans: Gina Morris*, Michelle Griggs
House Secretary: Karen Parker

Media Relations (East 2, Extension 6015)
Deans: Tracy Portis*, Jorge Medina
House Secretary: Lee Brochu

Computing Sciences & Engineering (North 1, Extension 6014)
Deans: Monica Williams*, Drew Bissell, Sarah Castro
House Secretary: Melinda Perez

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

Academy of Fine Arts (South 2, Extension 6223)
Deans: Valerie Leverett*, Shalyn Habermacher, Tracy Cooper
House Secretary: Sandra Vargas

* denotes Small School Administrators

Curriculum Directors

ESL English World Languages Magnet Math Performing Arts Physical Education ROTC Science Social Studies Special Education Technology Visual Arts

Edith Gonzalez Robyn Davis Jennefer Aliaga Noelle MacGregor Jeff Schroeder Tony Wallin Erika Gilbeaux Keith Kalman Carolyn Klein Donna Patch Sarah Anthony Yolanda McCall Karen Hunter

Other Important Contacts

Advanced Placement	Stephanie Matlock
Attendance	Alma Douwaji
Booster Clubs	Alaina Turner
Bus Transportation	Debi Schroen, Teresa Jawgiel
Clubs and Organizations	Mary Hansen
Communications	Noelle MacGregor
Counselors	Alaina Turner
Dual Credit	Valerie Leverett
ESL/LEP	Jorge Medina
Facility Reservations	Michelle Mulcahy
Fundraising	Barbara Neal
Gifted and Talented	Stephanie Matlock
Graduation Lab	Joseph Ogle
Librarian	Steve Harrison, Kathy Forbes
Magnet Office	Noelle MacGregor
Registrar	Caroline Stento
Safety and Security	Drew Bissell
School Nurses	Martha Allbright
Security	Joseph Jackson, CB Stephens
Social Workers	Joy Maguire, Lara Hulin
Special Education	Sarah Anthony, Shalyn Habermacher
Testing	Beth Bogan
Textbooks	Valerie Leverett
Title 1	Jorge Medina
Website	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 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 connected to school and friends and fosters positive socialization.  With more than 40 clubs and organizations, Westside has numerous opportunities for students to get involved.  Students will receive more detailed information in the fall about our organizations and have an opportunity to try some out to find a good fit.

Athletic Oriented Programs 
Mark Byrd, Athletic Director

Baseball	Basketball	Cheerleading	Cross Country
Dance	Drill Team (Pride)	Football	Golf
Lacrosse	Rugby	Soccer	Softball
Swimming	Tennis	Track	Volleyball
Water Polo	Wrestling

 

Performing and Visual Art Programs

Band	Ceramics	Choir	Dance
Digital Photo	Drawing	Jazz Band	Orchestra
ROTC Rifle Team	Sculpture	Thespians

Student Government
Student Council is centralized with the exception of the Senior Class. There are five officer positions which will act as the leadership body for the Student Government organization as well as both standing and event-related committees. While still part of Student Council, the Senior Class will act largely as a separate entity with its own President and officers.
For more information, please contact the following class sponsors:
Freshmen: Liz Hutchinson
Sophomores: Erik Ostergren
Juniors: Heather Davis
Seniors: Ned Bandera-Duplantier

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

Parent Opportunities

Westside High School Parent Teacher Organization
Welcome! A new year is here and we invite you to stay involved. The objective of the PTO is to enhance the overall educational experience of all Westside students. The PTO assists with volunteer time and financial resources. Some of the areas where we help are: staff appreciation, scholarships, enhanced teaching materials or supplies and campus beautification. We provide volunteers to help wherever needed including UIL competitions, in the bookroom and library, Homecoming and more. We also sponsor the Back-to-School Bash and the Westside Wire (in home newsletter). We also award ten $1000 scholarships to graduating seniors each year.  Join by November 1 to be eligible for the current year.

Ready to support your student through PTO involvement? Here is how:

1. Join the PTO—See the membership form in the First Day Packet or on the PTO website.
2. Attend PTO meetings -- Generally the first Tuesday of the month, 7:00 p.m. in the Library. Reminders will appear in the school e-newsletter. See you there!
3. Participate in the PTO’s Dollars for Scholars campaign. Even if you cannot give of your time, lend your monetary support through our "write a check" program. It's easy. You will find the form at our website or again, in the First Day Packet.

We look forward to meeting you and working as partners in the success of all students at Westside High School. Questions? Email PTO President Debbie Noriega at doulogne@att.net.

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 Sandra Vargas at svargas@houstonsid.org.

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 9 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 and sponsor the Community Fun Run. We also maintain an ABC website, hold monthly meetings, and advance our organization at a variety of school events.

All profits from ABC fundraising events are shared with the sports participating in the fundraiser. This is a great way to help support your team. We encourage every parent to join the booster club and every team to get involved in selling both retail and spirit ads for our sports programs.

We invite everyone to attend our monthly meetings held on the second Monday of every month at Westside High School, and to visit our website at www.westsidehighsports.org. Make a commitment to your student, your school and your community as we continue to promote a positive winning attitude in athletics.

Other Parent Groups
There are other organized parent groups at WHS (Music Booster Club, Pride, etc.) who meet regularly to support extracurricular activities. Sponsors, coaches and teachers can always use help; please don’t hesitate to ask even if the organization does not have a formal parent group.

Guest Speakers
Westside will bring in guest speakers during the year on topics of interest to students, parents and the community. In addition, each small school will host enrichment opportunities for students relative to the theme/focus of the house. We would like to draw on our parent/business community to identify and invite professionals in various industries who can bring their expertise and experiences into the classroom or with a larger group of students. We strongly encourage our community to give back to the school by imparting authentic world experiences in the instructional setting.

Our five small schools are The Business Academy (E1), Media Relations (E2), Computing Sciences and Engineering (N1), Applied Science and Health Professions (N2), and the Academy of Fine Arts (S2).

The Big Picture

 Shared Decision Making Committee
The purpose of the Shared Decision Making Committee (SDMC) is to advise the principal on school issues, including the budget and staff development. It is comprised of 8 teachers, 4 certified professionals, 1 non-instructional staff member, parents (selected by the PTO), community members (selected by the principal), students (selected by students), and the principal. Meetings are held the third Wednesday of the month, and are open to the public; however, only committee members may vote. If you would like an item added to the agenda, please email Mr. Michael McDonough at MMCDONOU@Houstonisd.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.

Attending Westside Functions

Parents, we know you’ll come to hear your child sing in a choir concert or play in the big game, and students will likely see their friends in a play, but if this is the only time you’re embracing WHS activities, you’re missing out! There is always something happening at Westside… look for upcoming events in the weekly news and on our web calendar. Sports are exciting, the arts are entertaining, all at a bargain price.