BELLA VISTA HIGH SCHOOL 8301 Madison Avenue Fair Oaks, CA

BELLA VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

8301 Madison Avenue

Fair Oaks, CA 95628

Bryan Irwin, Principal

916.971.5052

www.sanjuan.edu/bellavista

TABLE OF CONTENTS

BELL SCHEDULE ........................................................................... p. 2

CAMPUS MAP............................................................................ p. 3

THE PRIDE OF BELLA VISTA ..................................................... p. 4

MISSION STATEMENT ............................................................... p. 4

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES .............................. p. 4

SCHOOL WEBSITE .................................................................... p. 5

TELEPHONE NUMBERS .................................................................................. p. 6

STUDENT ACTIVITIES ............................................ p. 6

SCHOOL DANCE ............................................................ p. 7

ATHLETICS .................................................................................................... p. 8

ELIGIBILITY ................................................................. p. 9

SCHOOL SERVICES ................................................................... p. 10

COUNSELING ................................................................ p. 10

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES ............................................ p. 11

HOMEWORK REQUESTS ................................................ p. 12

PUBLICATIONS ............................................................. p. 12

STANDARDIZED TESTING ..................................................................... p. 13

GRADUATION INFORMATION ................................................... p. 14

SENIORS AND CUTS ...................................................... p. 14

GRADING POLICY................................................................................................ p. 15

ATTENDANCE ........................................................................... p. 16

ABSENCE CODES ........................................................... p. 16

TARDIES ...................................................................... p. 18

TRUANCY...................................................................... p. 18

SCHOOL / DISTRICT RULES ........................................................................... p. 18

ACADEMIC HONESTY .................................................... p. 18

BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING .................................................... p. 19

DRESS CODE ............................................................................ p. 20

DRUGS/CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES ......................................... p. 20

ELECTRONIC DEVICES .............................................................. p. 21

FIGHTING ................................................................................ p. 21

DEFINITION OF SELF DEFENSE................................................. p. 21

UNIFORM ............................................................................ p. 22

SEXUAL HARASSMENT .............................................................. p. 23

UNIFORM / UNIVERSAL COMPLAINT ........................................ p. 24

PARKING ................................................................................. p. 24

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS ......................................................... p. 25

INTERVENTIONS ...................................................................... p. 25

BOARD OF EDUCATION / DISTRICT ADMIN .............................. p. 27

THE PRIDE OF BELLA VISTA

“A Gold Ribbon School”

Bella Vista is Spanish for “beautiful view”, which is seen in the Spanish

influence in the school’s architecture. Traditions include the “Bronco” as the

school mascot; scarlet, black, and white as the school colors; La Remuda

(The Exchange), as the yearbook title.

Bella Vista is known for its excellence in academics, music, drama, fine arts,

and athletics. This excellence has been recognized when Bella Vista became

a “Gold Ribbon School” in 2015.

Bella Vista has a long history of championships. Fifty-five teams represent

Bella Vista in men’s and women’s athletic competitions. The Academic

Decathlon, Science Olympiad and Moot Court teams have experienced

continuous success. Additionally, outstanding and successful alumni are a

credit to the school and its commitment to excellence.

Staff, students, parents and administrators work together collaboratively to

carry on “The Pride of Bella Vista” by providing the finest education possible

for students.

BELLA VISTA HIGH SCHOOL’S MISSION STATEMENT

Bella Vista High School, a collaborative learning community based on a

foundation of excellence, will inspire each student to excel and positively

impact society by empowering them to be dynamic thinkers, leaders, and

creators in a complex world.

ALMA MATER

Hail Bella Vista High

For thee we stand

Red, Black, and White prevail

Here and o’er the land

Always our banners fly

Faithful and never to die

Ever be true to thee

Bella Vista High

FIGHT SONG

Fight, fight for Bella Vista High

Fight, fight, and win

Win, win for Bella Vista High

Rush the foe again

RAH, RAH, RAH

Smash the line of every

enemy

Bring home the victory

Fight, fight, and win the game

again, For Bella Vista High

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Students have… The right to a quality education and the responsibility to

participate in the learning process. The right to attend school in an

environment of safety and the responsibility to behave in a manner which

maintains the safety of others. The right to be treated with respect and the

responsibility to treat others with respect. The right to review and the

responsibility to follow the school code of behavior. The right to receive and

the responsibility to give constructive criticism. The right to seek and the

responsibility to use a grievance procedure. The responsibility of following

the district’s policies.

The San Juan Unified School District Board of Education is committed to equal

opportunity for all individuals in district programs and activities. District

programs, activities and services shall be free from unlawful discrimination,

harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying based on actual or perceived

characteristics of race or ethnicity, color, ancestry, nationality, national origin,

immigration status, ethnic group identification, age, religion, marital or parental

status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender,

gender identity, gender expression, or genetic information, or on the basis of a

person's association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or

perceived characteristics.

If you believe you have experienced unlawful discrimination, please contact the

District’s Title IX Coordinator:

Linda C. T. Simlick, General Counsel

3738 Walnut Avenue

Carmichael, CA 95608

(916) 971-7110

LegalServices@sanjuan.edu

BVHS’s official website is http://www.sanjuan.edu/BellaVista.cfm.

•

Want to keep up on all the activities on campus? Be sure to read

the weekly parent e-newsletter, the BV NewsFlash. All parents

with a valid email automatically receive the newsletter.

•

Want to view your child’s daily attendance, transcripts, grades,

daily grades and more? Go to the BV website or parent portal

(https://sis.sanjuan.edu/parentportal)

TELEPHONE NUMBERS

PRINCIPAL

Bryan Irwin, Principal ........................................................... 971-5057

Darcie Mahlke, Principal’s Secretary ........................................ 971-5057

VICE PRINCIPALS

Ed Moore (last names A-G) .................................................... 971-5058

Sherrie Marlette (last names H-O) .......................................... 971-5058

Stephanie King (last names P-Z) ............................................ 971-5058

Kelly Hall, VP Secretary ........................................................ 971-5058

COUNSELING

Lauren Williams (12

) .......................................................... 971-5025

Katie Sowa (11

) ................................................................. 971-5025

Elyna Cespedes (10th) .......................................................... 971-5025

Shelley Snyder (9

) ............................................................. 971-5025

Lauren Trainor (504/EL) ........................................................ 971-5025

Ana Johnson, Counseling Secretary ......................................... 971-5025

ATTENDANCE

24-hour Attendance Clearing Recorder ..................................... 971-5002

Cheryl Monaco, Sr. Records & Reports Clerk ............................. 971-5040

Lisa Dunn, Attendance ICT .................................................... 971-5040

FINANCE

Amy Reason, Controller ........................................................ 971-5046

REGISTRAR

Deborah Carpenter, Sr. Records & Reports Clerk ....................... 971-5050

OTHER SERVICES

Front Desk, Christy Davis & Jessica Cokinos .......................................... 971-5051

Activities Director, Zara Budenbender ..................................... 971-6045

Athletic Director, John Hardwick .................................................................. 971-5093

Band Director, Santiago Sabado ............................................. 971-5031

Choir Director, Wendy Carey.................................................. 971-5076

College & Career Center ........................................................ 971-5083

Librarian, Susan Sloan .......................................................... 971-5030

Textbooks, Taja Ferrarini....................................................... 971-5030

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARD

Every student receives a picture identification card free of charge. All

students are required to have and to carry with them at school and all school

activities a current Bella Vista ID card. ID cards are mandatory for

checking out textbooks and library books, purchasing dance tickets,

admission to school dances, and admission to detention. There is a

replacement fee for lost or stolen ID cards.

STUDENT BODY CARD

To support the Bella Vista student body, students are encouraged to

purchase a student body card for $50. Students with a Student Body Card

will have free entrance to all home sporting events and a $5 discount to

every dance. There is a replacement fee if the card is lost. Cards are sold

during the school year in the Finance office.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Student representation at Bella Vista is through student government. These

students run all the student activities and events of the school, manage the

student body budget, and provide representation to the student body,

administration, and community.

STUDENT OFFICERS

Students are elected in the spring and serve a full-year term. To hold office,

applicants must meet the eligibility requirements and commit to the goals

of student government. Freshmen class officers are elected in September.

SCHOOL DANCES

Bella Vista dances are a well-attended, fun, optional, school-sponsored

activity. ALL tickets are sold online through GoFan.com. N

O TICKETS ARE

SOLD AT THE DOOR

. Students will use their BV student ID or a Promo code to

buy a ticket. Students who want to bring a non-BV guest to the dance must

complete and return a guest pass application from the front desk – and

receive approval - before buying a ticket. Guest passes must be turned into

the front desk no later than 3:30pm on the Tuesday before the dance.

Guests must show picture identification to enter the dance. All Bella Vista

students must present their online ticket and their current BV

Student ID card or Student Body Card for admittance to the dance.

In addition, students are issued wristbands at the door, to be worn

during dances as part of a warning system for inappropriate

dancing. All school rules apply to dances and will be strictly enforced.

The following dance rules must be followed:

•

Students will be admitted to the dance only during the first hour. Special

circumstances resulting from school sanctioned events, e.g., athletic

games, are an exception. The vice principal must have the names before

the dance.

•

Once a student leaves the dance, s/he may not return and must leave

campus. Students may, however, leave the dance anytime.

•

Students are expected to dress appropriately and in good taste.

•

Inappropriate, rough, or unsafe dancing could result in students being

asked to leave the dance and further disciplinary action.

•

Loitering in the parking lot or around the campus will not be permitted.

CLUBS

In September, Student Government sponsors “Club Day.” Students may

join any club(s) they want. New clubs can be formed when 10 or more

students show an interest in forming a purposeful organization. New clubs

require an on-campus advisor, constitution, and must be approved by the

executive board of student government. The first step is to contact the

student government advisor.

ACADEMIC COMPETITION TEAMS

Students should see advisors if interested in these teams.

Academic Decathlon .......................................... Geni Aymeric

Model UN ......................................................... Keith Mickelson

Moot Court ....................................................... Keith Mickelson

ACADEMIC HONOR ORGANIZATIONS

CSF (California Scholarship Federation) ................ Greg Lambrecht

NHS (National Honor Society) ............................. Dave Underwood

ATHLETICS

INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS

Bella Vista offers all sports at all levels for boys and girls. All students have

the opportunity and are encouraged to participate. Bella Vista’s sports

programs are as follows:

Fall Sports (Start Date: July 31, 2023)

Boys

Cross-Country, Football (start July 24), Water Polo (start Aug. 14)

Girls

Cross-Country, Field Hockey, Golf, Tennis, Volleyball, Water Polo (start Aug. 14)

Winter Sports (Start Date: October 30, 2023)

Boys & Girls

Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling

Spring Sports (Start Date: February 5, 2024)

Boys

Baseball (start Jan. 29), Golf, Lacrosse, Swim & Dive, Tennis, Track & Field,

Volleyball

Girls

Lacrosse, Softball (start Jan. 29), Swim & Dive, Track & Field

ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES PARTICIPATION CLEARANCE

Before students can participate in athletics (including cheer),

students/parents must register, obtain a sports physical on the SJUSD form,

and complete the clearance process on

https://sportsnethost.com/bellavista-

parent. Parents must provide all required documentation and forms

before they can practice. Students participating in Band or Dance must

complete & return the clearance packet (including physical) they can obtain

from the Band/Dance director. There is a 48-hour turnaround time for

processing and issuing a clearance. See the Athletics office or school website

https://www.sanjuan.edu/bellavista for the physical form and further

registration instructions.

ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

The District Governing Board of the California Interscholastic Federation

(CIF) will have general control of and be responsible for all aspects of

interscholastic athletics. They will ensure that all interscholastic policies,

programs and activities are in compliance with state law.

GENERAL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

•

Students who transfer schools must alert the Athletic Director so

eligibility can be determined.

•

Students must have a medical doctor’s signature on the Athletic

Participation Consent Form. All physicals expire at the end of each

school year.

•

Students must have at least $1,500 medical coverage which may be

parents’ private insurance or student accident insurance policy available

through the school district.

•

Athletes cannot be absent the day of the game except for a medical

appointment.

•

Athletes cannot participate on a school team and an outside team in the

same sport at the same time.

•

Students who use alcohol, tobacco or drugs on campus or at school-

authorized functions will be penalized in accordance with the San Juan

Unified School District discipline policy and athletic policies.

•

Any student who uses or possesses drugs, alcohol, tobacco or drug

paraphernalia (this includes any form of vape pen) may be removed

from their team.

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Bella Vista is based on 4-week grading periods and eligibility is determined

at the end of each of these grading periods.

•

Eligibility for the first grading period is determined by grades earned at

the end of the spring semester for those students who were in high

school during the previous semester.

•

Students must have an overall 2.0 grade point average and passing 5

of 6 academic classes for the previous grading period.

•

Students must have earned a “C” average in citizenship (conduct and

deportment) for the previous grading period (all classes attempted).

•

Students may have the option of having summer school classes affect

their interscholastic eligibility. Students must repeat the same class in

which the grades from the preceding grading period caused the

ineligibility. If the same class is not available, another class may be

substituted if the level of difficulty is the same or higher. All substitute

courses must have the approval of the counselor, appropriate

department chairperson and final approval of the principal before the

student enrolls in summer school.

•

Initial eligibility will be based on C.I.F. for those students entering from

schools outside the San Juan Unified School District. Grades received at

the end of the first grading period will determine subsequent eligibility.

STEROID WARNING

Use of steroids to increase strength or growth can cause serious health

problems. Steroids can keep teenagers from growing to their full height;

they can also cause heart disease, stroke, and damaged liver function.

**NOTE: A student who is found to have violated the agreement or this

policy shall be restricted from participating in athletics and shall be subject

to disciplinary procedures including, but not limited to, suspension or

expulsion in accordance with law, board policy, and administrative

regulation. (Ed. Code 49030)

SCHOOL SERVICES

COLLEGE AND CAREER CENTER

The College and Career Center, run by parent volunteers, is located in the

library and is open at lunch. The “CCC” is the hub for career exploration

and life after high school. Students can find information about colleges,

vocational/technical school, the military, financial aid, scholarships and

more. Information about jobs, summer camps and volunteer opportunities

are available. Check out the CCC website: tinyurl.com/bellavistaCCC.

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT

Conflict Management is a program which trains students to help maintain a

positive campus atmosphere. The goals of the program are to decrease

tension, hostility and violence in school through a mediation process.

Students who need assistance or know of others needing help from conflict

managers should tell a campus monitor, a vice principal, a counselor, or any

teacher. Students interested in becoming a conflict manager should see the

Counseling Office.

COUNSELING

Credentialed counselors at BV provide academic, personal/social, career,

and crisis counseling for all students. Referrals to the counselor can be made

by students, parents, teachers, or administration. Counseling services are

delivered through a variety of strategies based on individual student needs.

Students make an appointment to see a counselor or may speak to a

counselor on a drop-in basis.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

Emergency contact information is required to be on file each school year.

Emergency information can be filled out online through the parent portal

(

https://sis.sanjuan.edu/parentportal) or in person at the BV office. It is

imperative that the emergency contact information is current. Two

additional emergency contacts are required. Emergency contact information

must be current and kept on file for the entire school year. Address changes

are done at San Juan Central Enrollment: (916)726-5826.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

All possible steps will be taken to ensure the safety of students. Parents

may hear emergency information, e.g., school closures, from KFBK Radio

1530 AM and local television stations. Emergency information may also be

initiated by the school and communicated to the entire school community

through our internet-based telephone & email system, School Messenger.

SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY HOTLINE

The School Safety and Security Hotline number is (916) 979-TIPS (8477).

This Hotline number is a simple way for students, parents, and community

members to report school safety or security concerns.

FINANCE OFFICE

The Finance Office (located in the main office) is where students can

purchase cash sale dance tickets, student body cards, planners, yearbooks

and make their class materials donations. For a fee, students can replace

lost or stolen ID Cards or Student Body Cards. The school’s controller

collects money for book fines and fees. There is a SJUSD $20.00 service

charge for all returned checks. No checks are accepted after April 1

. The

Finance Office is open at break, lunch, and before and after school.

FOOD SERVICE

Bella Vista’s cafeteria provides a limited breakfast offering and lunch for all

students. Free and reduced rate lunches are available for students who

qualify. Students may obtain an application in the Main Office from the

front desk, or online at https://mealapps.sanjuan.edu.

HEALTH NEEDS

There is no nurse or health assistant on Bella Vista’s campus. Report to the

Attendance Office to arrange to go home. The attendance office will

contact the parent/guardian to request the student be issued an early

dismissal and taken home.

Other health information:

•

Prescription medication and “over the counter” medicines:

Parent/physician Release Form must be on file with the Principal’s

Secretary, even for aspirin. https://www.sanjuan.edu/Page/6808

•

In case of an emergency, the Principal’s Secretary will call 911 and the

student’s parents.

HOMEWORK REQUESTS

Students are responsible for making arrangements with teachers to make

up work missed because of absences. Students or parents may request

homework assignments from the office (BellaVistaFrontDesk@sanjuan.edu

;

971-5051) if absence is for 3 or more days. Homework will be available for

pickup from the office after school on the day following the request. For

short-term absences, students should contact classmates or check with the

teachers when returning to school. No make-up work is allowed for work

missed because of truancy.

LAB DONATIONS

To support the programs at BV, students may be asked to make a donation

for the supplies used in some classes. Arrangements can be made for

students with financial need. Please speak with your teacher.

LIBRARY

The library is located at the center of the campus and houses over 11,000

books as well as technology resources to assist students with academic

research, class assignments, and/or personal reading materials. Students

are required to have either their physical student IDs or the ability to pull

it up on their phones in order to check out library books or

textbooks. Check out the Library website to see all the services

offered: tinyurl.com/BVBroncosLibrary

LOCKERS

There are no hall lockers. Backpacks or backpacks on wheels are

recommended. Students are not allowed to store books/materials in their

cars for retrieval during the school day.

LOST AND FOUND

Lost and found items may be claimed or turned in to the front desk in the

main office. The school district and Bella Vista High School are not

responsible for lost or stolen items. Loss item reports are filed at the front

desk in the main office.

PUBLICATIONS

BV School Website

https://www.sanjuan.edu/bellavista Get school news and learn how to view

students’ grades and attendance online.

BV Newsflash

The weekly e-newsletter provides up-to-date activities, deadlines, and

events for families. All parents with a valid e-mail will automatically receive

the newsflash.

Yearbook-La Remuda

The yearbook is produced by students and is for sale throughout the school

year. Students are encouraged to purchase the yearbook early as the price

increases during the year. Visit

https://www.sanjuan.edu/Domain/214.

TUTORING

After-school and before-school tutoring are available on campus. Check with

your counselor or librarian for updated dates and time.

WORK PERMITS

Any student under 18 years of age is required to have a work permit before

employment. Students must fully demonstrate that they are meeting all

school responsibilities before a work permit is granted. To

receive/keep/renew a work permit, students must 1) Have positive

attendance (students receiving a 2

truancy/excessive excused letter from

the district will have their permit revoked), 2) Have a 2.0 GPA with no Fs in

any class on any grade report, 3) Must be on track to graduate (credits).

Applications are available at the front desk and must be renewed every

August.

STANDARDIZED TESTING

CA ASSESSMENT OF STUDENT PERFORMANCE AND PROGRESS

(CAASPP)

Students in grade 12 will take a computer-adaptive test in science and grade

11 will take a computer-adaptive test in math and English during the spring

semester. The tests measure how well students are learning the state

adopted content standards, “Common Core.” This data helps identify

strengths & weaknesses, improves instruction, and is responsible for our

high API scores which contribute to the outstanding reputation that attracts

the half of our student body attending from outside of BV’s attendance

boundaries.

ACT ASSESSMENT (Optional)

The ACT (American College Test) is designed to assess high school students’

general education development and their ability to complete college-level

work. The ACT is a national college admission exam that tests four skill

areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning. Registration

materials are available in the Counseling Office and online at www.act.org.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP Tests)

The AP Program gives high school students an opportunity to take college-

level courses and exams, and earn credit, advanced placement, or both for

college. To help students prepare for these tests, Bella Vista offers advanced

placement courses in art, biology, calculus, chemistry, computer science,

economics, English, European history, world language, physics,

psychology, US history, and world history.

PSAT/NMSQT: (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit

Scholarship Qualifying Test). All sophomores and juniors take the

PSAT/NMSQT in October. This 2-hour examination measures students’

critical reading, math problem solving, and writing skills. This shorter

version of the SAT allows students to find out what the SAT is like. Students

who take the PSAT/NMSQT may qualify to enter competitions for prestigious

scholarships and participate in recognition programs. For more information

contact the Counseling Office.

SAT I: REASONING TEST (Optional)

The SAT I is a 3-hour, multiple choice test measuring students’ verbal and

math reasoning abilities. It is generally taken by college bound students in

their junior or senior year since it is part of the entrance requirements for

most colleges and universities.

SAT II: SUBJECT TESTS (Optional)

These tests are 1-hour examinations that measure students’ knowledge or

skills in a particular subject and their ability to apply that knowledge. Some

colleges use one or more of the subject tests for admission or placement.

TEXTBOOKS

Students must have a current physical BVHS Student ID for textbook

checkout. Without it, students cannot check out textbooks. Textbooks are

checked out and returned in the library. Students are responsible for their

books, no matter where they store them. If damaged, lost or stolen, the

student must pay for the books before another textbook is issued. Class

schedules and report cards are withheld pending the return or payment of

textbooks. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen books.

GRADUATION INFORMATION

PARTICIPATION POLICY

Graduation recognizes seniors who have successfully completed the

required course of study through attendance and completion of 220 credits.

SJUSD board policy states, “Seniors enrolled but not attending five classes

will be denied participation in graduation ceremonies even though all other

graduation requirements have been met.” A senior placed on social

probation anytime during the last month of school may not be allowed to

participate in any school-related activities, including the commencement

ceremony.

SENIORS AND CUTS

Seniors with too many periods of truancy (attendance codes C+Y+B) aka

“cuts” will not be allowed to participate in the commencement ceremony.

The number of classes in which a student is enrolled, not counting ROP,

multiplied by six is the number of cuts that disqualify a senior from

participation in commencement. E.g., 6 classes = 36 cuts; 5 classes = 30

cuts, 4 classes = 24 cuts.

SENIOR HONORS

Graduation is a time to honor all successful Bella Vista students. Some

specific honors and their criteria are:

Seniors with a 3.75 or better weighted grade point average will wear a red

honors sash for the commencement ceremony. The GPA is cumulative as of

the Interim Progress 6 report of the second semester.

VALEDICTORIAN

The student(s) with the highest weighted GPA and any students with all A’s

for 4 years are Bella Vista’s valedictorians. The names are determined after

the second semester final grades are issued.

SALUTATORIAN

The student(s) with the second highest weighted GPA is Bella Vista’s

salutatorian. The names are determined after the second semester final

grades are issued.

OTHER GRADUATION ADORNMENTS

Academic groups may wear approved neck adornments for the ceremony.

No Personal adornments on caps or gowns are permitted.

GRADING POLICY

ACADEMIC GRADES

A letter grading system is used which reflects the following scale:

Superior

Above Average

Average

Below Average

F Failing

An academic grade reflects teacher judgment in assessing content

standards for the course, the quality and quantity of academic work

completed during the grading period. Teachers distribute policies at the

beginning of each year/semester about homework and grading.

CITIZENSHIP GRADES

Each student is responsible for his/her behavior. It is the responsibility of

school personnel to monitor student behavior to ensure that the classroom

and school environment is safe, orderly, and conducive to learning. The

citizenship grade for each student is based on conduct, cooperation,

integrity, effort, attitude, and tardiness.

REPORT CARDS

Parents may check grades and attendance in progress online

(https://sis.sanjuan.edu/parentportal). Official progress reports will be

posted every four weeks. At the end of each semester (January and June)

report cards/transcripts are mailed to parents. Only final semester academic

and citizenship grades are recorded on the transcript, which is the student’s

permanent record. Constant monitoring of graduation requirements is the

joint responsibility of the student, the parent, and the counselor. Five units

of credit toward graduation are earned each semester a student receives a

passing grade. Students and parents are encouraged to contact teachers for

questions or concerns about the grades. E-mail and voicemail numbers are

available on the school website, or in the office. Teachers have the ultimate

authority and responsibility for assessing the academic achievement of

students. Only the teacher can change a grade.

DROP “F” POLICY

Students enrolled in classes are expected to complete these classes. After

10 days, students who drop a class will receive a drop “F” on the transcript.

ATTENDANCE

ABSENCES

All absences must be cleared within five days by a phone call or email from

a parent/guardian. Students may not leave campus early without an early

dismissal pass. Parents will be notified by the auto dialer each evening

whenever a student is reported absent from one or more periods. Parents

may clear absences using 916-971-5002, the 24-hour attendance line, or

by emailing

BellaVistaAbsence@sanjuan.edu from the address registered in

the Parent Portal. If unaware of the absence, parents should call the

Attendance Office at 971-5040 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to speak

to an attendance clerk. Absences not cleared within five school days

automatically roll over to truancies. If students are marked absent in error,

they can clear the absence with a correction slip. Parents cannot clear

erroneous absences.

EXCUSED ABSENCES

A = Absent

E = Ill

• Illness, medical

appointments

• Limit 60 periods per year

F = Funeral

• Attending funeral of an

immediate family

member-1 day for

California, 3 days for out

of state

G = Admin Excused

I/J = Independent Study

Absence

R = Religious

S = Suspension

T = ≤30min Tardy

V = Doctor Verified

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

B = >30min Tardy

C = Cut

X = Unexcused

• Out of town

• Needed at home

• No car or car trouble

• Overslept

• DMV

• Unspecified appointments

• Personal reasons

• Illness/Medical Appt

(after 10-day limit and

unverified)

Y = Rolled Cut

• Uncleared absence after

5 days.

ATTENDANCE NOTIFICATION

Students and parents can view attendance on the parent portal at all times,

and should review it together (https://sis.sanjuan.edu/parentportal). Single

period absences need to be cleared as well as all day absences. The forms

to make corrections are available for students in the Attendance Office.

Teachers must verify that there was an error on their attendance sheets.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Parents need to report immediately any change of address to San Juan

Central Enrollment www.sanjuan.edu/Page/53146. This is important

in case of an emergency. Changes to telephone numbers of

emergency contacts can be updated through the parent portal.

EARLY DISMISSALS

A student must have an early dismissal (ED) to leave campus at any time

during the school day. To obtain an ED, the parent/guardian must either:

Provide a written note, specifying the date, time and purpose of the

ED. The note is brought by the student to the attendance office

before school.

Call the attendance office at (916) 971-5040, requesting the ED.

Please note that EDs issued over the phone will be available

for students to pick up between classes, at break or at lunch.

Leave plenty of time for pick up.

EDs will only be delivered to students in the event of an emergency.

Bella Vista maintains a strict closed campus policy. Any student who leaves

campus without an ED is truant and in violation of the closed campus

policy. Students who leave campus for any reason without an ED cannot be

cleared “after the fact”.

ILLNESS

If a student becomes ill and needs to leave school, s/he must report to the

Attendance Office to call home to get permission for an ED. Teachers will

dismiss ill students to the Attendance Office to call home. It is the student’s

responsibility to notify the teacher when s/he is not feeling well. Students

who are ill must never leave during the school day without getting an ED in

the Attendance Office.

OPEN PERIODS

Students with open periods must leave the campus immediately after their

last class. Students may not “hang out” on campus to wait for after school

activities.

Note: Teachers are not required to produce make-up work for

truancies (codes C, Y, or B). It is the teacher’s discretion to allow

makeup for unexcused (code X) absences.

Students who are absent from school and are marked excused shall be

allowed to complete all assignments and tests missed during the absence

that can be reasonably provided, and upon satisfactory completion within a

reasonable period of time, shall be given credit. The teacher of any class

from which a student is absent shall determine the assignments that the

student missed during the absence.

TARDIES

Students are expected to be in the classroom and ready for instruction when

the final bell rings. A student is tardy when arriving up to 30 minutes late.

All students arriving late to school must get a tardy pass from the

Attendance Office. Teachers may assign consequences after the first tardy

that may include the following:

•

Lower the student’s citizenship grade.

•

Assign after-school detention.

•

Telephone the parents/guardians.

On the 6

and subsequent tardies, teachers will refer the student to

the vice principal for discipline. Students who continue to be tardy will

receive more severe disciplinary consequences. Completing the assigned

discipline does not erase tardies. The tardy policy is in effect on a semester

basis.

TRUANCY and TRUANCY LETTERS

Truancy is defined as a day with at least one unexcused absence of 31

minutes or more. A student tardy more than 30 minutes is considered truant

and must be cleared through the Attendance Office. The district mails a

letter to parents/guardians informing them when students have 3, 6, and 9

periods of unexcused absences. Students with excessive truancies will be

referred to SARB (School Attendance Review Board), put on social

probation, and may be referred to an alternative program.

SCHOOL / DISTRICT RULES

ACADEMIC HONESTY

Academic dishonesty in all its forms, in course work, on examinations, or in

other academically related activities, includes but is not limited to the

following:

•

Copying from another student or knowingly allowing another to copy.

•

Using unauthorized materials and/or technologies.

•

Plagiarizing work, which means the use of any other person’s work without

proper citation.

When a student has been found to break the academic honesty policy, the

following will occur:

First Offense

•

The student will receive a zero for the assignment/test/paper, etc.

•

The teacher will call the parents.

•

The teacher will write a referral to the vice principal’s office for appropriate

disciplinary action.

•

The teacher may lower the citizenship grade for the current progress

reporting period.

•

The teacher will make a referral to student’s counselor.

2nd Offense

•

The student will receive a zero for the assignment/test/paper, etc.

•

The teacher will call the parents.

•

The teacher will write a referral to the vice principal’s office for appropriate

disciplinary action.

•

Required parent conference.

•

The teacher will lower the citizenship grade.

Offense

•

The student will receive a zero for the assignment/test/paper, etc.

•

The teacher will write a referral to the vice principal’s office for appropriate

disciplinary action.

•

Required parent conference.

•

The teacher will lower the citizenship grade.

•

May receive a drop “F” from class.

BICYCLES/SKATEBOARDS

A student who uses a bicycle or skateboard for transportation must stop

riding it when reaching the edge of the campus. Bicycles and skateboards

must be locked in the bike racks at the West entrance near room E-6.

BULLYING/CYBER BULLYING

For information on bullying/cyberbullying, go to the San Juan website and

click on the “Tell Someone” link (https://www.sanjuan.edu/tellsomeone).

CAMPUS VISITORS

All visitors must report to the main office for permission to be on campus.

Authorized visitors will sign in and be given a “visitor” sticker that must be

worn while on campus. Visitors may not roam the campus. Students may

not bring guests to school unless prior approval has been granted. Students

from other schools may not visit Bella Vista teachers or students during

school hours. Former students are not allowed to visit teachers without

prior authorization from the teacher. Parents/guardians may contact their

student’s teacher 24 hours in advance to obtain approval to visit their class.

COMPUTER USE RULES

Except as required, the use of school computers and access to the Internet

is a privilege. Students who do not follow the computer use rules may be

disciplined, and may lose computer privileges. When students use the school

computers they agree to follow:

•

The directions and rules of the school, the school staff and the school

district.

•

Rules of any computer network they access.

•

Students also agree to be considerate and respectful of other users.

•

Use school computers for school-related education and research only.

•

Not to use school computers and networks for personal or commercial

purpose.

•

Not to change any software or documents (except student created

documents).

•

Not to produce, distribute, access, use, or store information which:

Is prohibited by law, district or school rules.

Violates copyright laws.

Is obtained by trespassing in private or confidential files.

Is obscene, pornographic, or sexually explicit.

Causes delay, disruption or harm to systems, programs, networks

or equipment.

Is otherwise prohibited in the workplace or on a school campus.

Protect password.

Do not allow anyone else to use your password.

Do not use anyone else’s password.

DELIVERIES

We do not make deliveries to class. To protect the learning environment,

we keep disruptions to a minimum. If your student forgot something

important at home, a parent may deliver it to the office and text their

student to pick it up at break, lunch, or after school. The school does not

assume responsibility for any such item that is lost or stolen. Please do

NOT deliver gifts, flowers, or balloons during the school day. We do not

accept food deliveries from restaurants.

DRESS CODE

The dress code is established to promote a positive, psychologically safe,

and appropriate learning environment. Extremes in dress or clothing

regarded as disruptive or a distraction from the learning environment is not

permitted. All students are expected to dress appropriately for a school

environment. Any clothing that significantly interferes with or disrupts the

educational environment, unless protected under the freedom of speech

laws, board policy, or administrative regulation, is unacceptable. Clothing,

jewelry, and personal items (backpacks, gym bags, water bottles, etc.) with

language or images that are vulgar, sexually suggestive, discriminatory,

obscene, libelous, or that promote illegal or violent content, such as

weapons, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or drug paraphernalia, indicates

membership in or promotion of a gang, or clothing that contains threats, is

prohibited. Clothing should fit, be neat and clean, and conform to standards

of safety, good taste, and decency. Clothing that exposes cleavage, private

parts, the midriff, undergarments, or that is otherwise sexually provocative

is prohibited.

DRUGS-ALCOHOL-CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE-PARAPHERNALIA

Bella Vista High School will enforce the law and school district

policies concerning drugs, alcohol, and drug paraphernalia to the fullest

extent. Examples of drug paraphernalia include but are not limited to:

electronic cigarettes, vapor pens, hookah pens, glass pipes, pipes, or any

other tools, equipment, or items modified to enable drug use.

Any student who sells or otherwise furnishes, or is in possession for

sale of any controlled substance, an alcoholic beverage or an intoxicant of

any kind, will be suspended, recommended for expulsion, and subject to

arrest.

Any student who is in possession of, has consumed or used alcohol

or a controlled substance, before or during a school function, will receive a

home suspension and be placed on social probation. There will be a

referral to law enforcement.

Any student with the odor of alcohol on his/her breath, the odor of

a controlled substance on clothing, and/or appearing to be under the

influence of alcohol or a

controlled substance may be subject to a search and may be suspended.

Schools are tobacco and drug-free zones.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Students must adhere to teacher expectations for classroom

use of electronic devices.

Emergency communication for an early dismissal must go through the

attendance office at 971-5040.

SJUSD is not responsible for the loss of personal property. This

includes property stored in classrooms, lockers, vehicles, or confiscated

from students.

To protect students’ privacy, the

USE OF ANY PHOTO-CAPABLE

ELECTRONIC DEVICE IN A LOCKER ROOM AT ANY TIME WILL RESULT IN A

SUSPENSION.

FIGHTING

Students who engage in a fight will receive a home suspension and

s ocial probation. A second fight may also result in a school transfer.

Promoting a fight is a disruption of school activities and may result in home

suspension.

DEFINITION OF SELF-DEFENSE

To establish the defense, the person must be free from fault or provocation,

have no means of escape or retreat, and there must be an impending peril.

FLYERS

A student or adult may not distribute or post any flyer on campus without

permission from the administration.

GAMBLING

Gambling (ie. playing cards, dice, coin pitching or flipping for money) is

illegal and not allowed on campus or at any school activity.

GRAFFITI / VANDALISM

Damaging, defacing or destroying school property is against the law.

Students guilty of such acts will receive consequences to the full extent that

the California Education Code, the Penal Code and San Juan district policies

allow, including suspension, social probation and possible recommendation

for expulsion. There may be a referral to law enforcement. Parents are

responsible and financially liable for acts of vandalism by their student. In

addition, the district may withhold a student’s grades, diploma and

transcript until restitution for damages is made.

HALL PASSES

Students are not permitted out of class without a pass. TAs and student

government members must wear their identification badge. Students are

not permitted in the office without a pass. Students may only travel to the

destination on the pass. Students without a pass or abusing the use of a

pass will be referred to the vice principal for discipline.

INAPPROPRIATE DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION

In a public place such as at school or at school-sponsored activities,

excessive displays of affection are inappropriate.

LITTERING

Students have a tsponsibility to keep the campus litter free while at

school, especially during break and lunch. Students must put their trash in

the garbage containers placed around the campus. It is not the job of the

custodian to pick up after students. Abuse will result in disciplinary action

including “campus beautification.”

LOITERING

All students are required to be in class during school hours. Students may

not loiter on or about the campus at any time. Students coming to or leaving

the campus may not linger or gather at homes on the streets next to the

campus. Students observed doing this will be subject to disciplinary action

and possible referral to law enforcement. Private citizens have the option of

calling law enforcement if students habitually loiter at their property.

OUT OF BOUNDS AREAS

Students will receive disciplinary consequences if found in the following

areas during the school day. Repeated violations will result in suspension.

•

Parking lots and fields

•

Front of school

•

Behind any of the school buildings, including the fields

•

Basketball court for non-players

•

Driveway on the west side of school

PE CLOTHES AND POLICIES

Students must dress out every day unless instructed not to. Exceptions will

be made for students with a written medical note from a physician.

The PE uniform is:

•

Shirts: Solid white or white BV shirts with the first initial and last name

printed legibly across the front.

•

Shorts: Solid black or black BV shorts

•

Sweatshirts: Black, gray or red

•

Sweatpants: Black

•

Socks: Must be worn

•

Shoes: Athletic shoes, no sandals

•

Hats: Teacher’s discretion

Non Suit Policy

•

Warning & Call Home

•

Half Hour Detention

•

One Hour Detention

•

+ Saturday School

Three partial non-suits (no-name, wrong color short/shirt) count as a full

non-suit. Loaners are offered on a first come, first served basis. No student

may get loaners more than 2 times per semester. A current Student ID Card

or a Student Body Card is required to check out loaners in the PE Office.

PE LOCKERS

PE lockers are assigned at the beginning of the school year. Students must

provide locks for their lockers; high quality, heavy duty combination locks

are best (usually around $20). Students choosing to store personal articles

and school property in these lockers assume liability for their security.

Locker rooms are locked and not accessible during class time. Students

found in the locker room unsupervised will be subject to disciplinary action.

PERSONAL PROPERTY

SJUSD is not responsible for the loss of personal property. This includes

property stored in classrooms, lockers, vehicles, or confiscated from

students. Students bring personal property to school at their own risk.

PROFANITY OR SLURS

Students must not use profane language. Profanity directed at individuals

or in loud excessive displays and/or slurs (racial, ethnic, sexual, religious,

handicapped, etc.) are prohibited at all times. The use of such language will

result in disciplinary action.

QUESTIONING BY OUTSIDE AGENCY

A law enforcement agent, upon request and with appropriate

identification, has the authority/right to question students while at school.

SALES/EXCHANGES/BARTERING

Selling, exchanging or bartering is prohibited except as fundraisers

authorized by the administration and/or student government.

SEARCHES

To ensure the health, safety and welfare of students, school authorities and

law enforcement officers may conduct searches as allowed by law. P.E.

lockers, backpacks, and student vehicles may be searched at any time. In

addition, district Safe Schools Officers (Sheriff’s deputies) may use trained

dogs to indicate the presence of drugs in lockers, vehicles, backpacks, and

other locations.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

The district has adopted the following strict policy containing rules and

procedures for reporting sexual harassment and pursuing remedies. The

Governing Board prohibits unlawful sexual harassment of or by anyone in

or from the district. Sexual harassment is unwelcome sexual

advances, request for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or

physical contact of a sexual nature made by someone from or in the

work or educational setting. Any student who engages in sexual

harassment of another student or anyone from the district may be subject

to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Any employee who

permits or engages in sexual harassment may be subject to disciplinary

action up to and including dismissal. Any student, staff member or parent

who feels that harassment has occurred should immediately contact the

teacher, principal of the school, or district Title IX Coordinator. If the

concern is not resolved, a formal complaint may be initiated at the school

or by directly contacting the district Title IX Coordinator. Copies of the

Uniform Complaint Form may be obtained from the school office or district

Title IX Coordinator.

TOBACCO USE OR POSSESSION

The possession or use of tobacco, or any products containing tobacco or

nicotine products, including, but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, miniature

cigars, clove cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets, vape pens,

and betel is prohibited. This applies on campus and includes attendance at

school activities, in front of the school and streets and/or properties next to

the school property. All San Juan Unified School District property is a

tobacco and drug free zone for students and adults.

UNIFORM COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

Use this form, available from the principal’s secretary, to make a formal

complaint alleging unlawful discrimination based on actual or perceived sex,

sexual orientation, ethnic group identification, race, ancestry, national

origin, religion, age, gender, color or physical or mental disability, or failure

to comply with state and/or federal laws in adult education, consolidated

categorical aid programs, career technical and technical education and

training programs, Indian education, migrant education, child care and

development programs, child nutrition programs and special education

programs. Complainants shall be protected from retaliation and the identity

of a complainant alleging discrimination shall remain as confidential as

appropriate.

VEHICLES, STUDENT PARKING AND DRIVING REGULATIONS

Vehicles on campus are subject to the rules of the California Vehicle Code.

Student parking and driving on campus are privileges and violations will

result in disciplinary action and possible loss of on-campus parking.

•

Student parking is only in the east parking lot. Students may not park

in front of the school, on the fire lane, or at the west end of the campus.

Students may not park in spaces marked for staff or visitors.

•

Students may not go to the parking lot area once the school day has

begun.

•

Unsafe driving will result in disciplinary action and possible loss of on-

campus parking.

NOTE: Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis. If there is no legal

parking available on campus, students must find legal parking off campus.

The school and district are not responsible for theft of or damage to a

student’s vehicle or theft of the contents inside the vehicle. California

Highway Patrol, Sheriff and Fire Department personnel may issue citations

with fines to parked vehicles violating safety, handicapped and fire access

codes.

WEAPONS

Students who bring guns, knives (or replicas/imitations) or other dangerous

objects to school or school activities may receive a 5-day suspension,

recommendation for expulsion and referral to law enforcement.

WILLIAMS UNIVERSAL COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

Use this form, available from the principal’s secretary, to make a formal

complaint alleging insufficient textbooks or instructional materials, teacher

vacancy or misassignment, or threatening facility conditions.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

School Rules

California Ed Code 48908 states, “All pupils shall comply with the

regulations, pursue the required course of study, and submit to the

authority of the teachers of the schools.” All students are expected to follow

Bella Vista High School’s policies, rules and procedures to promote

cooperation, consideration of others, care of property, conservation of

resources and self-discipline. These rules apply at all times on campus and

at all school-sponsored activities on or off campus. Guest teachers and all

other school personnel are considered as regular faculty and must be

treated as such. Any student whose conduct disrupts the instructional

process or working order of the school, or is in willful disobedience or

defiance of authority, may be suspended. Supervisors, teachers,

administrators, school officials, or other school personnel engaged in the

performance of their duties are the valid authorities at BVHS.

INTERVENTIONS

Conflict Management

Trained senior students meet in the office with students in conflict with each

other and assist them in talking out their problems and coming to an

agreement. Failure to live up to the agreement will lead to disciplinary

consequences. This program is highly effective and can be requested

anonymously by talking to a teacher, counselor, or VP.

After-School Detention

After-school detention is a 30 to 60-minute study period used as a

disciplinary tool for tardies and minor classroom offenses. Students must

report to detention with their current ID card at the end of their school day

and bring schoolwork to complete during the assigned time. Failure to serve

detention will result in additional discipline.

Saturday School

Saturday School is an alternative to home suspension and assigned by an

administrator. Saturday School is held in a designated classroom. Saturday

School begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 11:30 a.m. No student is

admitted after 8:00. Students assigned to Saturday School must bring

homework or a book to read. NO electronic devices are allowed, including

but not limited to: headphones, electronic toys/games, cell phones, etc.

Food is also not permitted. Students who fail to serve Saturday School will

be subject to additional disciplinary consequences.

Suspension

Students may be suspended from school for violation of school or district

rules or if they present a danger to the health or safety of others or a threat

to disrupt school programs. Before being suspended, students have the

opportunity to give their version of the incident to school authorities. A

suspension lasts from 1 to 5 days. During a home suspension, a

student may not participate in or attend classes, activities, or

school-related events at any location. Homework will be provided by

the teachers if the student is on suspension for 3-5 days. A suspended

student or his or her parent/guardian has the right to appeal a suspension

by contacting the school principal. Students who accumulate 15 days of

suspension may be referred to an alternative school placement.

Social Probation

A student is placed on social probation when s/he gets in a fight, possesses

and/or is under the influence of any controlled substance, alcoholic

beverage, dangerous substance or intoxicant, commits vandalism to school

property, has excessive truancies or for any discipline issues. A student on

social probation is prohibited from participating in or attending any

non-mandatory school function, activity or event at any location.

Non-mandatory school functions, activities or events include, but are not

limited to dances, athletic events, drama and musical productions, student

club activities, and activities related to graduation including the graduation

ceremony, and athletic teams including practices. Social probation is for 1-6

calendar weeks depending on the severity and recurrence of the infraction.

Violations of social probation will result in an extension of the duration of

the probation and/or a home suspension.

Expulsion

Expulsion means a student may not attend any San Juan Unified School

District school or school activity. The principal recommends expulsions for

very serious offenses, such as possession of a weapon or dangerous object,

causing physical injury to another person, sale of a controlled substance,

robbery, extortion, sexual assault or battery. If a student violates any of

these policies, s/he is suspended for 5 days and is recommended for

expulsion. The Board of Education makes the final decision to expel a

student.

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Zima Creason, President

Pam Costa, Vice President

Saul Hernandez, Clerk

Ben Avey, Member

Paula Villescaz, Member

Tanya Kravchuk, Member

Vacant, Member

DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION

Melissa Bassanelli, Superintendent of Schools

Amy L. Slavensky, Ph.D., Interim Deputy Superintendent, Schools and Student

Support

Linda C.T. Simlick, J.D., General Counsel

Trent Allen, APR, Chief of Staff

Frank Camarda, Chief Operations Officer

Jennifer Stahlheber, Chief Financial Officer

Debra Calvin, Ed.D., Associate Superintendent, Educational Services

Paul Oropallo, Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources

Kristan Schnepp, Assistant Superintendent, Secondary Education and Programs

Amberlee Townsend-Snider, Assistant Superintendent, Elementary Education

and Programs

Daniel Thigpen, Executive Director, Labor Relations and Government Affairs

Peter Skibitzki, Senior Director, Technology

Go to the school website for the latest version of this information.