Biloxi Public School District
“Excellence…From All…For All”

FOREWORD

It is the responsibility of parents and students to familiarize themselves with this Student Handbook, approved by the School
Board, including official district policies with which you should be acquainted. I understand the 2024-2025 Biloxi Public
School District Student Handbook is accessible on the district webpage at www.biloxischools.net. If I do not have access
to a computer or would prefer a paper version, I may request a copy from the main office of my child’s school.
The handbook has been prepared by the staff of the Biloxi Public School District as a guideline to procedures, policies,
and practices governing the operation of our schools and the behavior of our students. Biloxi administrators and
instructional staff members believe that it will help both parents and students to be properly informed about matters that
concern all of us. Academic and extracurricular opportunities, routine day-to-day events and activities, disciplinary rules
and consequences of misbehavior, accreditation requirements and special programs and services – all are part of this
handbook, together with many other concerns which are clearly explained in the publication.
The School Board and the administration of the Biloxi Public School District work closely together to establish sound and
reasonable goals for our schools, to anticipate district needs, and to provide an environment conducive to learning. The
primary purpose of providing this handbook is to help make your school experiences in this environment more satisfying,
because it will tell you what you need to know and what you need to do in order to make this year both pleasant and
successful.

SPECIAL NOTES
A Letter to Parents/Guardians:

The Biloxi Public School District has and intends to continue a zero-tolerance policy for weapons and drugs on campus.
This policy has been very effective in curtailing inappropriate behavior on campus and maintaining a safe atmosphere. In
order that you may understand how serious the District is about this issue, this letter is being written to all parents/guardians
to be discussed with their children.
"Zero tolerance" means that any child with a weapon will be recommended by the principal for expulsion by the School
Board. A weapon is any item which can inflict harm, no matter how minor. Therefore, it does not matter that the knife is
small or that it can inflict harm only with force. The word weapon may also include fake guns, toy guns, or knives, because
fear of injury in a school is simply unacceptable. "Zero Tolerance" also applies to drugs as covered in the student handbook.
(See "Student Conduct.")
Zero tolerance applies to all students. It does not matter that your student is in elementary school or has other special
circumstances. It does not matter that the weapon was mistakenly brought to school or something the student found on
the way to school. It does not matter that it was never intended to do harm. This policy is very important to your student's
education. Therefore, if you suspect that your student is unable to understand this rule, then you should check his/her
book bags and pockets before leaving for school.
The Biloxi Public School District is proud of its students and their behavior; however, it believes that even one referral for a
weapon is one too many. We know that with your help we can continue to provide an excellent and safe environment for all
children in this district.

Students and News Media - The school district will publish the name and/or picture of a student in school publications or
school-related articles or include students in other school-related news media programs unless prior requests have been
made by a student's parent/guardian for exclusion of his/her child's name or picture from such publications or news media
programs.

 

Emergency Operations - Because there are a number of school districts in Harrison County, parents and students need to
be aware that announcements related to the dismissal or closing of the Biloxi Public School District should not be
confused with announcements related to the Harrison County Schools, which are in a separate district. Parents should
listen to the local radio, television stations, and social media for announcements from the superintendent's office.

Absences/Tardies - It is extremely important for every student and parent to read the district's policies related to absences.
(See "Attendance" policy and "Tardies.") Students should make every effort to be present every day and not to be tardy to
school or to class. Any questions related to absences or tardies should be referred to the principal immediately following
enrollment. Excessive absences, tardies, and early check-outs will be reported to the school attendance officer.

Harassment - Harassment of or by employees or students, in person or through written, telephone, or other communications,
including but not limited to those acts which are sexual in nature, attempts to intimidate or harangue teachers or other
employees or students, abusive, vulgar, or profane language directed toward an employee or student, physical threat or
assault, etc., will not be tolerated by the Biloxi Public School District. In the event that such harassment occurs, the district
will take appropriate action, including but not limited to filing of official complaints, seeking legal and law enforcement
assistance, pursuing prosecution to the fullest extent permissible under the law, and termination of employment. This policy
similarly applies to non-employee volunteers who work subject to the control of school authorities. Further, inappropriate
relationships between employees and students are prohibited whether consensual or nonconsensual. Inappropriate
relationships between employees and students as defined by legal code shall be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
Harassment and/or abuse toward teachers via social networking may be punishable by law.

Bullying – The discipline policies and procedures must recognize the fundamental right of every student to take “reasonable
actions” as may be necessary to defend himself or herself from an attack by another student who has evidenced menacing
or threatening behavior through bullying or harassing. Furthermore, the Biloxi School District defines “reasonable action” in
most cases as promptly reporting the behavior to a teacher, principal, counselor, or other school employee when subjected
to bullying or harassing behavior.

BILOXI SCHOOL BOARD
Swayze Collier President
Richard C. Schmidt, Jr. Vice-President
Ashleigh Lamas Secretary
Patrick Buchanan Member
Gary Gray Member

SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION

 

DIRECTORY OF SCHOOLS

 
Back Bay (K-4) 340 St. Mary Blvd. 39531, 436-5110 
Gorenflo (1-4) 771 Elder Street 39530, 436-5145 
Nichols (PreK-K) 590 Division Street 39530, 374-7250 
North Bay (K-4) 1825 Popp’s Ferry Road 39532, 435-6166 
Popp's Ferry (K-4) 364 Nelson Road 39531, 436-5135 
Biloxi Upper Elem. (5-6) 1424 Father Ryan Avenue 39530, 432-3700
Center for New Opportunities 1424 Father Ryan Avenue 39530, 432-3730
Biloxi Junior High (7-8) 1921 Tribe Drive 39532, 435-1421
BJH Pupil Accounting 435-2751
Biloxi High School (9-12) 1845 Tribe Drive 39532, 435-6105
BHS Pupil Accounting 435-6176
Athletic Department 435-6310
Career Technology Center 435-6318

Administration Office
160 St. Peter Street
Biloxi, MS 39530
Phone: 374-1810
Fax: 436-5171

DuKate Building
1445 Father Ryan Avenue
Biloxi, MS 39530
Phone: 436-5126
Fax: 436-5128

Biloxi Public School District
Website:
http://www.biloxischools.net

GENERAL INFORMATION
Term I July 25 – September 26
Term II September 27 – December 17
Term III January 6 – March 13
Term IV March 14 – May 23
Labor Day - September 2
Fall Break - October 7 - 14
Thanksgiving Holidays - November 25 - 29

Christmas Holidays - December 17 (early dismissal; end of school day
- January 6 (resume classes)

Martin Luther King Jr. Day - January 20
Mardi Gras Holidays - March 3 - 7
Spring Break - April 18-25

 

School Start & Release Times

Biloxi High: 7:55 a.m./ 3:15 p.m.
Biloxi Junior High: 7:55 a.m. / 3:15 p.m.
Biloxi Upper Elementary: 7:25 a.m. / 2:15 p.m.
Back Bay Elementary: 8:50 a.m. / 3:50 p.m.
Gorenflo Elementary: 7:25 a.m. / 2:25 p.m.
Nichols Elementary: 7:25 a.m. / 2:25 p.m.
North Bay Elementary: 8:50 a.m. / 3:50 p.m.
Popp's Ferry Elementary: 7:25 a.m. / 2:25 p.m.

Online Student Information System (Referred to as the SIS)

The SIS allows you to go online at any time and track your child's grades, attendance, and disciplinary history on a daily
basis. Login: To obtain a login and the website to access your child’s information, contact your child’s school.

STUDENT ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE TIME

Students are not to arrive on the school campus prior to the beginning of the school day when teachers report for duty. The
school will not assume responsibility for any students arriving on school grounds prior to stated time unless they are
transported by school bus. Continuous disregard for this procedure may be reported to the Biloxi Police Department.
Students are to leave the school campus at the end of the school day unless they are participating in a supervised school
activity and are under the direct supervision of a teacher. The school will not assume responsibility for any child remaining
on campus after the end of the school day without approval.

VISITORS

1. Visitors are always welcome but must first show ID at the front gate prior to entering the campus.
2. Visitors who fail to secure a visitor’s pass from the receptionist and show ID to be on campus may be referred to police
officials.
3. Younger children shall not be brought to school during classroom observation. In addition, younger children will not be
allowed to attend any activities/events held during the school day unless it is designated as a family fun event. Contact
the building principal as needed.
4. Appropriate attire is required.
5. Please disengage or mute all electronic devices, including cellular phones, in school buildings.
6. Biloxi High School doors are locked at 3:30 p.m. No visitor is to enter after 3:30 without prior arrangement and a staff
escort.
7. For the safety of all, visitors may not make unannounced visits to teachers’ classrooms or staff offices before, during
or after school.

PARENT CONFERENCES

Parent-teacher conferences must be arranged by appointment for the time set aside each day following the close of school or
during the teacher’s consultation period.

LEAVING THE CAMPUS

A student who leaves the school campus at any time must obtain permission from the principal or his/her designee and
meet the requirements established under the check-out policy. Students who leave without permission may be reported to
the local police department. Biloxi High School is a closed campus. Students may not leave the campus for lunch unless signed out by parents or legal guardians.

ADMISSIONS

 For voluntary enrollment in PreK, a child must be 4 years of age on or before September 1 of the current school year.
1. In accordance with the laws of the State of Mississippi, in order to be admitted to kindergarten, students must be 5
years of age on or before September 1 of the current school year. First grade students must be 6 years of age on or
before September 1 of the current school year. Certificates of Immunization and Vaccination are required upon
entering school. (See Section on Immunizations and Vaccinations.) This affects all students in grades K-12.
“Compulsory-school-age child" means a child who has attained or will attain the age of six (6) years on or before
September 1 of the calendar year and who has not attained the age of seventeen (17) years on or before September
1 of the calendar year; and shall include any child who has attained or will attain the age of five (5) years on or before
September 1 and has enrolled in a full-day public school kindergarten program. Provided, however, that the parent or
guardian of any child enrolled in a full-day public school kindergarten program shall be allowed to disenroll the child
from the program on a one-time basis, and such child shall not be deemed a compulsory-school- age child until the
child attains the age of six (6) years.
2. A certified birth certificate or documentation as permitted by law must be presented upon admission. The birth
certificate must be from the Bureau of Vital Statistics or from the State Department for students born overseas. Hospital
records, baptismal records, etc., will not be acceptable. The principal or his/her designee must verify the birth
certificate. Telephone calls are not acceptable.
3. Student must present an up-to-date MS Form 121 or 122 Immunization Certificate.
4. If a student is transferring into a Biloxi school from a school accredited by a state or regional accrediting agency, an
official transcript mailed directly from the office of the school previously attended will be required. A report card or
transfer papers from the previous school attended may be used for temporary class placement.
5. Students transferring into a Biloxi school from a non-accredited school or home schooling must be given appropriate
placement tests as determined by school officials. (See “Awarding of Academic Credit.”)

6. Upon completion of the registration process, the student may begin attendance the following day.
7. Students moving into Biloxi who have already completed the current school year at another school will not be permitted
to enroll for the remainder of Biloxi's current school year.
8. In accordance with Section 63-1-10, Mississippi Code of 1972, as amended, any applicant for a driver's license less
than eighteen years of age must submit with his or her license application documentation from the appropriate school
authority that the applicant is a full-time student in the Biloxi Schools. These forms can be obtained in the attendance
office. The student should fill out the top of the form, Name, Address, Date of Birth, Age, Social Security Number, and
the Name of School being attended. This must be printed in ink. The form will then be verified for school attendance,
signed by the principal's designee and notarized.
9. The administration reserves the right to suspend driving privileges within the Biloxi Public Schools in regard to
excessive absences and/or tardies.

TESTING OF STUDENTS ENTERING BILOXI PUBLIC SCHOOLS
FROM NON-ACCREDITED PLACEMENT/HOME SCHOOLING

Students in grades two through eight (2-8) will be tested by the district using a standardized test. The results of the test will
be sent to the school principal for final determination of a student’s grade placement.
Student placement in grades nine through twelve (9-12) is determined by the number of Carnegie units earned; therefore,
the following procedure has been established:
1. The student and parent/guardian determine which credit(s) the student will attempt to earn, i.e., Geometry,
Biology, English I, etc.
2. Student will be provided with end of course assessments to evaluate mastery of the curriculum for each
subject area.
3. After all testing is completed, the student and parent/guardian will meet with the principal/counselor to
construct his/her schedule. No student will be scheduled or attend class until all testing for credit has been
completed.

Because the number of tests the student must take is based on the number of credits the student is attempting to earn, the
testing process may take several days to complete.
Questions on this topic may be directed to the Director of Student Services for the Biloxi Public School District (228) 374-
1810, extension 1125.

VERIFICATION OF RESIDENCE -- REQUIREMENTS
As a result of the Residency Verification Procedure adopted as a policy of the Mississippi Board of Education on April 20,
1990, each parent or legal guardian with whom a student lives must provide to the school administration the following
documents:
1. A minimum of two proofs of residency is required for ALL students. Provide one document from each Group. (Group 1
& Group 2)

Group 1 
_ Mortgage Statement (dated within the last 30 days)

_Property Tax Form

_ Filed Homestead Exemption

_ Apartment or Home Lease

_ Military Housing Lease

Group 2

Utility Bill (dated within thelast 30 days)

_ Electric
_ Gas
_ Cable
_ Military Base Housing Residence Form

(NOTE: A driver’s license or voter precinct identification are no longer acceptable proofs.)

 

All documents must be for current residence only. Your child may not attend school until your residence has been
verified.
2. If you are the legal guardian/custodian of the student, you must also provide document titled "Letters of Guardianship"
or a custodial court order issued by a judge appointing you as guardian. We do not accept letters from attorneys,
power of attorney or other notarized documents.
NOTE: Any legal guardianship formed for the purpose of establishing residency for school district purposes shall not be
recognized by the Board. (Legal reference: Mississippi Code Ann. Section 37-15-31.)
3. If you fail to provide the necessary documentation, your children will not be allowed to attend schools in the Biloxi Public
School District. If you cannot meet the requirements for residency, you must meet with the superintendent or his
designee to determine whether your children will be eligible for enrollment. No temporary enrollment will be processed.
4. Should the school district receive a complaint regarding the residence of the student, it may take further steps to verify
your resident including, but not limited to, follow up visits by school officials or the school attendance officer.

CONTACTING PARENTS

It is the parent's/guardian's responsibility to provide accurate and up to date (current) telephone numbers and e-mail
addresses which will permit school personnel to reach a responsible adult at all times. The school must be informed of any
changes in telephone numbers and addresses immediately. Parents/guardians are advised that if a responsible adult
cannot be reached after good faith efforts by school personnel, Harrison County Social Services and/or the District’s
Security Officer will be contacted.
Parents with primary custody shall complete the student locator card. In the event that the parent with primary custody and
those on the locator card cannot be found in any emergency, the District may call the non-custodial parent.

IMMUNIZATIONS AND VACCINATIONS

It is unlawful for any child to attend school without first meeting the State of Mississippi’s vaccination requirements. Every
student in kindergarten through Grade 12 must present a certificate of immunization compliance from his/her doctor or
from the health department. This certificate of compliance must be presented in order to attend school, even though all
shot records are now up-to-date on school records.
In order to secure this certificate of compliance, it will be necessary for the student to go to the Harrison County Health
Department, the office of his/her family physician, or Keesler Hospital (for military dependents), taking with him/her all official
shot records. Before a child can register, the MS 121 or 122 CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE must be presented. The
validation of this certificate will become a permanent part of the student's records and will be valid through grade 12.
REMEMBER: No student may register or attend school until this certificate of compliance has been received by the school.
If the doctor signs the certificate indicating that other doses are necessary, the student will be given ninety (90) days to
complete the required immunizations; if they are not completed at the end of ninety (90) days, the child by law must be
suspended until compliance is achieved (suspension will begin immediately after the 90-day period).

 

MS SCHOOL ENTRY IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS

The list of immunizations required is specified by the State Health Officer and is promulgated at least annually as directed
by state statute. All vaccines are to be given at the appropriate age and intervals according to ACIP recommendations. The
required vaccines are listed below.

Vaccine/antigen No. of doses
Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis
(DTaP)b

5c
Polio (IPV) 4d
Hepatitis B 3
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) 2c
Varicella (chickenpox) 2f
Tdap (7th grade entry requirement) 1g

a – All children entering a Mississippi school (any grade) for the first time will be required to have the above listed
immunizations or Form 122. (This includes Pre-K 4 – 12th grade.)
b – Children entering a Mississippi school after their 7th birthday not meeting the above DTaP requirements will need at least
three (3) total doses of diphtheria/tetanus containing vaccine (Td). Tdap should be used as one of the three (3)
diphtheria/tetanus containing vaccines, preferably as the first of the three (3) doses for children age ten (10) years and
older.
c – If the 4th dose is received on or after the 4th birthday, a 5th dose is not required.
d – If the 3rd dose is given on or after the 4th birthday, a 4th dose is not required.
e – With documented physician’s diagnosis of previous infection with measles, mumps and rubella disease or serological
confirmation of immunity to measles, mumps and rubella, the vaccine is not required.
f – Beginning 2009-2010 school year, all children entering school for the first time will be required to have two (2) doses of
the varicella-containing vaccine or a history of typical varicella. If there is a history of chickenpox, the vaccine is not
required.
g – Tdap administered at 7-10 years: Children age 7-9 years who receive Tdap should receive the routine Tdap dose at age 11-12
years. Children age 10 years who receive Tdap do not need to receive the routine Tdap dose at 11-12 years.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

DISEASE EXCLUSION FROM SCHOOL
Chicken Pox Eight (8) days after eruption appears (until rash is dry)
German Measles Four (4) days after onset of rash; clearance by physician
Red Measles Seven (7) to ten (10) days after onset of rash; clearance by physician
Mumps Nine (9) days after glands swell (until swelling has subsided)
Scarlet Fever One (1) day (with antibiotic treatment); Four (4) days (without treatment)
Pediculosis (lice) No live lice or nits (eggs) and documentation of proper treatment

Re-admission to classroom after re-examination and free of nits and live bugs. Students
will not be transported by bus with known infestations.

Hepatitis Clearance by physician
Conjunctivitis (pinkeye) Until under proper treatment
Impetigo Until under proper treatment
Ringworm Until under proper treatment
Scabies Until under proper treatment
Fever Fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication prior to returning to school.
INFESTATIONS: HEAD/BODY LICE, SCABIES, BED BUGS OR ANY OTHER INVASIVE SPECIES PERTAINING TO
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
NOTE: The principal may require a written note from the student's family doctor or public health department for a student
returning to school after having a communicable or infectious disease.
No student will be allowed to bring medicine to school (please see “Medication” in the student handbook).

ATTENDANCE
SECONDARY (Grades 9-12)
Consequences of Excessive Absences
(calculated per class period)

Three (3) days --- Parental Contact
Five (5) days --- Reported to State Attendance Officer/Parental Contact
Twelve (12) days --- Administrative Review,
50 (F) in all classes missed/
year, Parent/guardian can be
charged with child neglect
(Please see explanations
below.)

1. The Biloxi Public School District supports the philosophy that the instructional program is the most vital part of formal
education. Experience has shown that a high quality of work is virtually impossible with irregular attendance;
therefore, students are expected to attend school at all times when school is in session.
2. If a compulsory-school-age child has not been enrolled in a school within fifteen (15) calendar days after the first day
of the school year of the school which such child is eligible to attend or if a compulsory-school-age child has
accumulated five (5) absences during the school year, the principal or superintendent is required to report such
absences to the Mississippi Office of Compulsory School Attendance and Enforcement.
3. Parents of a compulsory-school-age child who has not been enrolled in school within thirty (30) calendar days after
the first day of the school year of the public school which such child is eligible to attend are subject to prosecution
under the Mississippi Compulsory School Attendance Law.
4. All absences must have proper documentation turned in to Biloxi High Pupil Accounting Office.
5. The pupil accounting office will send an automated message to the parent on the day of the absence. The student
may bring a note to pupil accounting on the day the student returns to school. Parents may also email the excuse
to pa.bhs@biloxischools.net. The email must be sent from a verified email address given by the parent either during
registration or physically coming to the school and showing proper ID. The parent’s note verifies and excuses the
student’s absence. Each semester, students are allowed three parent notes. One parent note covers one day
missed. Anything beyond that will be unexcused. The parent’s note must be provided within five (5) school days of
the absence and include: student’s name (printed), date of the absence, parent/guardian’s name, phone number,
and parents/guardian’s signature or verified e-mail. IF THE NOTE IS NOT RECEIVED WITHIN FIVE (5) SCHOOL
DAYS OF THE ABSENCE, THE ABSENCE WILL BE CONSIDERED UNEXCUSED.
6. A student shall receive a grade of 50 in any class in which the student’s absences exceed the amount allowed by
law. Administrative review of absences is provided for students with chronic or unexpected, legitimate excused
reasons for absences. It shall be the parent's/guardian's responsibility to provide documentation. A student’s
absences can be monitored through the District’s SIS.
7. When claiming the death of a family member as an excused absence, the family member must be a close family
member. Close family would be father, mother, sister, brother, legal guardian, legal foster parent, grandfather,
grandmother, stepfather, stepmother, sibling of mother, sibling of father.
8. All documentation must be turned in within 5 school days of absence to be excused. The following reasons
for absences are permitted by law: medical appointments, documented legal reason, death or serious illness in the
immediate family, observance of religious event, injury or physical illness, and authorized school activity. Acceptable
documentation by a doctor, school nurse, dentist, court official, or clergy will be required and must be written on that
individual's stationery. An obituary documenting the death of a close family member is acceptable. (See #7 above.)
State statutes identify “excused absences” as “lawful absences” and “unexcused absences” as “unlawful
absences.”
9. When students are sent home by the school nurse, the absence is considered excused for that day.
10. After the third unexcused absence per class period in a semester, a message will be sent to parents/guardians to
inform them of the student’s absences.
11. School districts are required by law to report excessive absences to the State Attendance Officer. On the fifth (5th)
unexcused absence per class period, parents will be informed. Out-of-school suspensions will be reported to the
school attendance officer.
12. Twelve (12) unexcused absences in a school year can result in charges being filed against a parent/guardian for
educational neglect and/or truancy charges against the student. Additionally, students exceeding twelve (12) or
more unexcused absences in a school year may receive a 50/F in applicable classes.
13. A student shall not be allowed more than six (6) unexcused absences per class period during a semester.
14. A student will receive a zero (0) on classroom work, other graded work, or tests not made up. Make-up work must
begin at a time arranged by the teacher.

15. Students that display a pattern of excessive absences and tardiness may be required to provide 2 new proofs of
residency to verify their current residence.
16. Students under the age of seventeen (17) and students who turn seventeen on or after September 1 are required to
attend school on a regular basis under the Mississippi Compulsory Attendance Law.
17. Biloxi Public School District does not recognize or condone “skip days.” Parents of students who are absent during
a skip day may be contacted, and skip-day-related absences will be in violation of School Board policy on attendance.
18. In order to be counted present, a student must be in attendance 63% of his or her instructional day. In order to
participate in any extracurricular function, students must attend school a minimum of four (4) periods on the day of
the activity.
19. Student absences resulting from officially approved school business will not be counted; however, accreditation
standards must be adhered to in regard to student activities.
20. A parent/guardian who fails to attend a conference on absences or provide proof of lawful absences shall be reported
to the Mississippi Office of Compulsory School Attendance and Enforcement.
21. Two (2) college days will be granted for visits to colleges in a student's junior and senior year. A letter from the
college registrar/student admissions will be required to verify the visit. A copy of the invitation to attend will not be
accepted as verification of attendance.
22. An absence is excused when it results from the attendance of a compulsory-school-age child participating in official
organized events approved by the superintendent or his designee. The official organized event must be provided in
writing to the superintendent or his designee prior to the event for approval. Contact school principal with
questions.
23. An “unlawful absence” is an absence for an entire school day or during part of a school day by a compulsory- school-
age child, which absence is not due to a valid excuse for temporary nonattendance. For purposes of reporting
absenteeism, if a compulsory-school-age child has an absence that is more than thirty-seven percent (37%) of his/her
instructional day, as fixed by the School Board for the school at which the compulsory-school-age child is enrolled,
the child must be considered absent the entire school day. Days missed from school due to disciplinary suspension
shall not be considered an “excused” absence under this section.

TARDIES

The practice of being prompt is considered by Biloxi Public Schools to be an acquired habit which enhances students' ability
to succeed in adult life. Students who are not in the classroom and involved in the instructional process cannot achieve at
the same level as the student who is present and involved. In addition, students who are tardy disrupt the instructional
process for all other students in the class. Tardiness, both to school in the morning and to classes, will be considered as
harmful to the instructional process. Each incident (as determined under the cumulative record kept by the attendance office
for each term) will result in a negative consequence as listed below.

Tardy Policy (Per Nine-Week Term)

Excessive absences, tardies, and early check-outs will be reported to the attendance officer for referral to Family Court.

First Tardy - Warning
Second Tardy - Warning
Third Tardy - Time Management Class
Fourth Tardy - Student Conference/Parent Contact (if student attended Time
Management)

- Detention (if student did not attend Time Management)

Fifth Tardy - ISR and/or Loss of driving privilege
All succeeding tardies - ISR and/or possible placement on the discipline ladder

HOMEBOUND PROGRAM -- PROCEDURES FOR PLACEMENT

The Homebound Program is an instructional program for students who because of severe disabilities or chronic illnesses
are unable to attend school for extended, long-term periods or for other reasons as approved by the Board of Trustees for
the education of students not in the normal academic program. Only the superintendent, his/her designee, or the Board of
Trustees may determine the student's eligibility for homebound services. No principal or teacher or any other staff person
shall have the authority to place a student in the Homebound Program. For application and information on homebound
services, contact Student Services (228-374-1810).

LATE ENTRANCE

A student residing in the Biloxi Public School District at the beginning of the school year who is not attending another school
and who enrolls after the first day of the school year in the Biloxi Public School District must make up all work missed
because of late enrollment. Failure to make up work missed will be cause for withholding credit for the term's work. All
make-up work due to late enrollment must be completed by the end of the current term.

STUDENT CHECK-OUT POLICY Grades 9-12

In order to provide for the best welfare of each student and the school, the following check-out policy has been adopted:
When a student becomes ill or an emergency arises during the regular school day which may warrant early dismissal, the
student must report to the pupil accounting office. Before the student will be allowed to leave school, the student's parent
or legal guardian must be contacted by telephone or the parent, legal guardian, or person authorized by the parent must
come to the school to sign the student out. Those individuals that are authorized to pick up the student will be the only ones
allowed to do so and they will be asked for picture identification. A picture ID is required for all checkouts. The pupil
accounting director and/or the school administration will reserve the option to release a student from school if the student's
parents cannot be contacted.
A student may be released for a doctor's appointment, dental appointment, or other just reason when the parent, legal
guardian, or person authorized by the parent comes to the school and signs the student out or sends a note/email to the
pupil accounting office stating the reason for check-out). This note/email must include the check-out time, photo ID of
parent/guardian, and a contact telephone number for the parent/guardian. Notes/emails should be on file no later than 7:55
a.m. on the day of check-out. If the note/email cannot be verified, the school reserves the right to refuse release of the
student.

TRANSFERS, CHANGES OF ADDRESS, TUITION

1. The principal may only release Biloxi Public School District education reports or records as required by state law
when an official written request is received from the school district to which the student is transferred. Biloxi Public
School District will not release character references or recommendations based on student information in regards to
request for student transfers or withdrawals.
2. A parent or legal guardian has the right to review his/her child's school records.
3. A student leaving the Biloxi system may obtain a record of the student's work to date for the current term. Reports may
be held if the student has any indebtedness to the school (lunchroom, workbooks, library, textbooks, damages, etc.).
4. In-District: A student who moves from one school zone to another in the Biloxi Public School District shall not be
permitted to continue attendance in his/her present school.
5. Out-of-District: All students enrolled in the Biloxi Public School District after the beginning of the school session who
move outside the district at any time during the school year must withdraw from the Biloxi Public School District
immediately or apply for tuition status. Under some circumstances, tuition status may not be granted.
6. To enter and remain a tuition student, the following criteria will be closely monitored:
a. Student attendance, check-ins/check-outs, and tardies.
b. Disciplinary infractions. Students and parents must meet and maintain behavioral expectations and adhere to the
policies, practices, and procedures of the Biloxi Public School District.
c. Be on track to graduate (for high school) and maintain a C or above average in all subjects at the end of first
semester and the end of the year.
 Failure to meet or maintain any of the criteria listed above may result in a student’s enrollment being
denied or terminated.
The Biloxi Public School District will not accept out of district students who cause an additional outlay of funds beyond
that which is typical for all tuition students, require services or programs that the Biloxi Public School District does not
have, cause the expansion of a program that would require additional expenditures, or cause the district additional
financial or administrative burden.
7. Any student who moves during the school year must record the change of address with the records clerk in the main
office. Any change of telephone number must be corrected in the same manner. In order to be able to contact or locate
parents/guardians in a timely manner, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to be sure that addresses and
telephone numbers are accurate and up-to-date. (Also see “Contacting Parents.”)

WITHDRAWALS

In grades K-12, if a student withdraws prior to the conclusion of the school year and moves out of the district, the student will
receive grades in progress to be presented to his/her new school. The school to which the student is transferring will receive
grades in progress as well. No examinations will be given ahead of time. School officials should be notified one school day
prior to the withdrawal of any student. A parent must come to the records clerk’s office and officially withdraw the student. All
books and fines must be cleared before official withdrawal is completed and the academic record is cleared.

COMPLIANCE POLICIES

The Biloxi Public School District is in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1962, including regulations in
vocational education, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.
District policy assures that no one shall, on the grounds of race, color, age, religion, national origin, sex, or disability, be
excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in any program or activity
of the school. The sex of the student will follow the regulations as outlined under Title IX. The vocational department
encourages males and females to enroll in nontraditional classes and to train for nontraditional jobs. Copies of the Title IX
policy of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 are available in
the principal's office in each school building upon request. The local Title IX Coordinator, Dr. Jonathan Anderson, can be
reached at P.O. Box 168, Biloxi, MS 39533 or 160 St. Peter Street, Biloxi, MS 39530; telephone (228) 374-1810.
It is the policy of the Biloxi Public School District not to discriminate against any otherwise qualified individual with disability,
solely by reason of his/her disability, in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, any program or activity
sponsored by this school corporation.
Inquiries regarding compliance with this policy should be directed to the Section 504/ADA Coordinator or to the Office for
Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C.
The name and address of the Coordinator of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is Ms. April Rice, P.O. Box 168,
Biloxi, MS 39533 or 160 St. Peter Street, Biloxi, MS 39530; telephone (228) 435-4600.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT
NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over eighteen (18) years of age
(“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are:
(1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within forty-five (45) days of the day the school principal
receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that
identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The school principal will make arrangements for access and notify the
parent or eligible student of the time and place where the record may be inspected.
(2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are
inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the school to amend a record that they believe is
inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student,
the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding
the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or
eligible student when the school is notified of the request for a hearing
(3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records,
except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without
consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate education interests. A school official is a person employed by the
school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law
enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the school has
contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant or therapist); or a parent or student
serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in
performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate education interest if the official needs to review an
education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the school discloses education
records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

(4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school system to
comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy
Compliance, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-4605.

DIRECTORY INFORMATION NOTICE

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that the District or School, with certain
exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education
records. However, the District or School may disclose certain information, known as directory information, in its discretion without
written consent unless you have advised the District or School to the contrary in accordance with District and School procedures
as set out herein.
Directory information is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released.
The following information regarding students is considered directory information: (1) name, (2) photo, (3) e-mail address, (4) home
address, (5) telephone number, (6) date and place of birth, (7) major field of study, (8) participation in officially recognized
activities and sports, (9) weight and height of members of athletic teams, (10) dates of attendance, (11) degrees and awards
received, and (12) the most recent previous education agency or institution attended by the student. The District and School can
include directory information in certain school publications such as yearbooks, honor roll or other recognition lists, graduation
programs and sports activity sheets showing weight and height of team members. Directory information may be disclosed to
outside organizations that manufacture class rings and/or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require schools receiving
assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three
directory information categories - names, addresses and telephone listings - unless the parents or students have advised the District or
School that they do not want the student's information disclosed without their prior written consent.
Parents or eligible students (18 years of age or older) may refuse to let the District and School release any or all of this information.
If you do not want this directory information released, you must send written notice to the Principal or Superintendent within thirty (30)
days of enrollment. The District will continue to honor any valid request to opt out of the disclosure of directory information
unless it is rescinded by the student.

TRANSCRIPTS

A graduating senior will be furnished two transcripts of his/her credits without cost at the time of graduation. Following
graduation, transcripts may be requested at parchment.com for a cost of $5 per transcript.

CUSTODIAL PARENTS

If you are the legal guardian of the student through the courts, you must provide documentation officially appointing you
guardian/primary physical custodian or a copy of your most recent divorce decree for examination by school officials. The
Biloxi Public Schools will be responsible for issuing report cards, progress reports, and other necessary reports only to the
custodial parent (defined as the parent with whom the student resides during the school year). Copies of report cards will
be given to non-custodial parents upon written request to the principal, accompanied by a self-addressed envelope.

FREE SPEECH

The District recognizes a student’s right to free speech provided it is exercised in a manner which is not prohibited by law
nor disrupts the educational process.

CAFETERIA

Breakfasts and lunches are served each day in all Biloxi schools. Prices for breakfasts and lunches will be subject to change
during the school year.
Free and reduced-price breakfasts and lunches are available for those who apply and qualify.
Milk may be purchased by any student in the cafeteria.
All students must remain at school during the lunch period unless signed out by parents or legal guardians. There will be
no pre-checks accepted for the purpose of leaving for lunch.
Students will not be permitted to take food out of the designated eating areas. Students who bring their lunches to school
may eat in the cafeteria or in other approved areas.
Please note that glass containers are not permitted on the school campus.
No credit will be extended for breakfasts or lunches by the Food Service Department.

The system used in identifying student meal status will be the number system. The concept of the number system requires
that all students be assigned a certain coded number for the school year enabling each student to eat breakfast and lunch
in the school cafeteria.
Students may pay in advance for daily meals at a place and at times designated by the principal for this purpose. Students
may also pay in advance on a weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly basis. Account balances may be reviewed and payment may
be made at www.mypaymentsplus.com.
In accordance with federal regulations, the "Offer vs. Serve" policy is in effect for all students. This policy allows students to
select three different food items of the five food items offered on the menu. Students may choose to select three, four or
five of the items offered. Students must choose at least three different items of the five food items offered. Selecting fewer
than the five items offered does not relieve the student from paying the full price of the meal.
In compliance with federal regulations and State Board of Education rulings and the Biloxi Public School District’s Wellness
Program, efforts will be made to aid students in developing healthy nutritional habits, assure that sanitary food practices are
maintained, and support a sound financial status in the school feeding program. The following regulations will be observed.
No food items will be sold on campus one hour before the beginning of any meal service period and until the end of the
last meal service period.
No food deliveries from fast food commercial establishments or food delivery services will be received or consumed in
the cafeteria dining room during serving periods.
Food items offered for extra food sales by the Child Nutrition Program shall be only those foods which are components
of the federally approved meal patterns. The only exceptions to this regulation are milk products.
With the exception of milk products, a student may purchase individual meal components (extras) only after the full meal
unit has been purchased.
Foods of minimal nutritional value are not allowed in the cafeteria during meal service periods. These foods include, but
are not limited to, carbonated drinks and frozen desserts that contain less than 50% full strength fruit juice.
Vending machines are allowed on school campuses at the discretion of the school principal, provided the contents of
the machines are not in competition with the Child Nutrition Program and are operating in compliance with federal, state,
local regulations and the District’s Wellness policy. Student vending machines shall be used only after school. At no
time are students permitted to use vending machines in teachers’ workroom.

APPEARANCE OF BUILDINGS AND CAMPUS

Taking pride in one's surroundings is good training in citizenship. The school buildings and the campus can be kept attractive
with the cooperation of students and all school personnel. Trash should be deposited in containers, and rest rooms should
be kept clean.

LEAVING CLASS - TELEPHONE

At no time during class hours are students to be in halls without hall passes. Students will be called from class only in cases
of emergency as determined by school officials. School telephones are for school business only, and students will not be
permitted to use school telephones except in cases of illness or emergency.
Telephone messages shall be delivered to students in classrooms in emergency situations only, as determined by the
administration. Parents must make transportation arrangements with students prior to the beginning of the school day.

 

PARENT-TEACHER ASSOCIATIONS/PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATIONS
Close cooperation between home and school is fostered by the Parent-Teacher Associations which
are active in every Biloxi school. Parents are encouraged to join the P.T.A., P.T.O., and other
student-related programs that may require parent participation, and to attend meetings.

 

FLORAL DELIVERIES/GIFTS, ETC.

If floral arrangements or other gifts for students are delivered to the school, they will not be accepted.

TITLE I PARENT INVOLVEMENT POLICY

The Biloxi Public School District shall be in full compliance with the regulations of the U.S. Department of
Education under current Title I regulations relating to parent involvement and participation. The district
shall provide full opportunities for parents of children being served by Title I for participation in the design
and implementation of the Title I project. Encouragement of parent participation and involvement shall
also include, but not be limited to, the provision of timely information about program plans and evaluation,
the solicitation of suggestions for operations of the program, consultation with parents, informing parents
of their children's needs and of program objectives, and an annual public meeting for parents and school
personnel.
Please refer to Policy IDDGA.

 

INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM ACCREDITATION

The Biloxi Public School District holds advanced accreditation by the Mississippi Commission on School
Accreditation and is a member in good standing of the Cognia Global Accreditation Commission, an international
accrediting commission. Biloxi High School holds membership in the National College Boards. The Biloxi Public
School District administers all state- and federally mandated assessment programs.

MISSISSIPPI CURRICULUM CONTENT ASSESSMENT SYSTEM

I. Grades 3-8 State Assessments
 English Language Arts and Mathematics

• Administered to all students in grades 3-8 annually.

 Science

• Administered to all students in grades 5 & 8.
II. State Assessments required for high school graduation
 Algebra I, Biology I, English II, & U.S. History
III. ACT State Testing
 Curriculum and standards-based college readiness assessment
 Administered to all students classified as juniors
IV. English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT) – Federal Testing for English Learners

TEXTBOOKS - 9-12

Textbooks may be supplied by the school to the student on a loan basis. Damages or failure to return items will
result in a fine.

STUDENT TECHNOLOGY – 9 -12

Student devices will be issued to students for school use. Students will have the option to purchase insurance at the time
the device is issued to cover accidental damage. At the conclusion of the school year, all devices must be returned in good
repair or with damages paid for through the purchased insurance or at the cost of the student. Unpaid damages will result in a
deficiency that may delay final grades or records.

 

END-OF-YEAR RESPONSIBILITIES
A student must ensure that his/her record is clear of any deficiencies. Library, cafeteria, and textbook fines must be paid,
and all funds raised by students participating in school support groups, including PTO fundraisers, must be satisfied.
Failure to clear the student's record will result in his/her not being permitted to take final examinations, receive report cards,
or have his/her records processed for promotion or registration for the coming year.

GRADES
A 90 - 100
B 80 - 89
C 70 - 79
D 69 - 65
F BELOW 65
I Incomplete

In grades 9-12, a minimum of three (3) grades per subject per term will be required. All three (3) grades must reflect
performance in major units/projects/unit tests, etc. An activity grade will not count as one of the required three (3) major
grades. A minimum of five (5) activity grades must be recorded each term in all subject areas. CTAs may be administered
depending on the grade and content and is determined by need.

INTERVENTION SERVICES

MULTI-TIERED SYSTEM OF SUPPORT AND TEACHER SUPPORT TEAM

1. The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the behavioral and academic needs of every student are met through an
instructional model that is designed to address student learning with quality classroom instruction and opportunities for
intervention. The Mississippi Department Education (MDE) shall require every school district to follow the instructional model,
which consists of three (3) tiers of instruction:
a. Tier I: Quality classroom instruction based on Mississippi Curriculum Frameworks
b. Tier 2: Focused supplemental instruction
c. Tier 3: Intensive interventions specifically designed to meet the individual needs of students
2. If strategies at Tier 1 and Tier 2 are unsuccessful, students must be referred to the Teacher Support Team (TST). The TST
is the problem-solving unit responsible for interventions developed at Tier 3. Each school must have a Teacher Support
Team (TST) implemented in accordance with the process developed by the MDE. The chairperson of the TST shall be the
school principal as the school’s instructional leader or the principal’s designee. The designee may not be an individual
whose primary responsibility is special education. Interventions will be:
a. designed to address the deficit areas;
b. evidence based;
c. implemented as designed by the TST;
d. supported by data regarding the effectiveness of interventions.
3. Teachers should use progress monitoring information to:
a. determine if students are making adequate progress,
b. identify students as soon as they begin to fall behind, and
c. modify instruction early enough to ensure each student gains essential skills.
Monitoring of student progress is an ongoing process that may be measured through informal classroom assessment,
benchmark assessment instruments and large-scale assessments.
4. After a referral is made, the TST must develop and begin implementation of an intervention(s) within two weeks. No later
than eight weeks after implementation of the intervention(s) the TST must conduct a documented review of the interventions
to determine success of the intervention(s). No later than 16 weeks after implementation of the intervention(s), a second
review must be conducted to determine whether the intervention(s) is successful. If the intervention(s) is determined to be
unsuccessful, then the student will be referred for a comprehensive assessment.
5. In accordance with the Literacy-Based Promotion Act of 2013, each public-school student who exhibits a substantial
deficiency in reading at any time, as demonstrated through:
a. performance on a reading screener approved or developed by the MDE, or
b. locally determined assessments and teacher observations conducted in kindergarten and Grades 1 through 3,
or
c. statewide end-of-year assessments or approved alternate yearly assessments in Grade 3, must be given
intensive reading instruction and intervention immediately following the identification of the reading deficiency.

A student who was promoted from Grade 3 to Grade 4 under a good cause exemption of the Literacy-Based
Promotion Act must be given intensive reading instruction and intervention. The intensive intervention must
include effective instructional strategies and appropriate teaching methodologies necessary to assist the
student in becoming a successful reader, able to read at or above grade level, and ready for promotion to the
next grade.

6. A dyslexia screener must be administered to all students during the spring of their kindergarten year and the fall of their
first-grade year. The screening must include the following components:
a. Phonological awareness and phonemic awareness;
b. Sound symbol recognition;
c. Alphabet knowledge;
d. Decoding skills;
e. Encoding skills; and
f. Rapid naming (quickly naming objects, pictures, colors, or symbols (letters or digits) aloud.
7. All students in kindergarten and Grades 1 through 3 shall be administered a state-approved screener within the first 30 days
of school and repeated at mid-year and at the end of the school year to identify any deficiencies in reading. EXCEPTION:
Students in grade 3 who are not identified for intervention on mid-year screeners are not required to be screened again at
the end of the school year. In addition to failure to make adequate progress following Tier 1 and Tier 2, students will be
referred to the TST for interventions as specified in Multi-tiered System of Support guidelines developed by MDE if any of
the following events occur:
a. Grades K-3: A student has failed one (1) grade;
b. Grades 4-12: A student has failed two (2) grades;
c. A student failed either of the preceding two grades and has been suspended or expelled for more than (20) days
in the current school year
d. A student scores at the lowest level on any part of the Grade 3 or Grade 7 statewide accountability assessment;
OR
e. A student is promoted from Grade 3 to Grade 4 under a good cause exemption of the Literacy-Based Promotion
Act.

8. Referrals to the TST must be made within the first twenty (20) school days of a school year if the student meets any of the
criteria a-e stated above in Paragraph 7.
9. School districts must complete, at minimum, documentation as required for all students in Tier 2 or Tier 3. All Tier 3
documentation must accompany the student’s cumulative folder upon promotion or transfer to a new school.
Source: Miss. Code Ann. § 37-177-1, et seq., (Revised 12/2018)

PROGRESS REPORTS

At mid-term during each nine-week term the teacher or team will inform the parents of the academic work of all students.
This is done by way of a progress report. Teachers in grades 9-12, at their discretion, may require the progress reports to
be signed by a parent and returned. Parents who wish to receive progress reports more frequently may access SIS.

REPORT CARDS/ACADEMIC CREDIT

Report cards will be issued following the end of each nine-week term. Grades will be recorded for academic work.
Grades will be awarded on the basis of student performance.
A. The Biloxi Public School District will accept transfer students and award credit for grades earned during the school
year if the student is enrolled in the Biloxi schools for at least twenty (20) school days. A student enrolled in a Biloxi
school for less than twenty (20) school days will receive an Incomplete grade, except for those students transferring
into the Biloxi school system whose grades in progress at a previous school are sent to the principal's office. Grades
in progress will be averaged with grades received while in attendance in the Biloxi Public Schools.
B. Students with excessive absences who do not pass administrative review will not receive credit for the course in
which excessive absences occurred.
C. A student withdrawing from school prior to the last day of the grading period will not receive a final grade, but will
receive grades in progress for that term. (See "Withdrawals.")
D. Examinations will not be administered prior to the regularly scheduled time
E. In order for students to receive term, semester, or yearly grades, all course or grade level requirements must be met.
F. Report card dates are noted on the school calendar (on the back of this handbook).

 

GRADING ENGLISH LEARNERS (EL)

In order to ensure consistency and accountability within the Biloxi Public School District for K-12 students, the procedure
below will be followed when assigning grades to English Learners (ELs).
No failing grades may be given during an EL’s progress from Level 1 – ‘Beginning’ through
Level 3 – ‘Intermediate’ as long as the student is providing adequate effort for success and
meeting attendance requirements.

1. Levels 1-3 (Beginning, Early Intermediate and Intermediate)
a. 65 – 100 % Passing (S=Satisfactory)
b. 50-64 % (N=Needs Improvement)
c. Below 50% (U=Unsatisfactory)
2. Level 4-5 (Proficient and Above Proficient)
a. General report card
b. “EL” noted on the report card

AWARDING OF ACADEMIC CREDIT

Students have an opportunity to earn credits during their career in Biloxi Public Schools in a variety of different ways. You
should note that the number of credits required for graduation varies depending on the pathway in which your child is
enrolled. Nine- week term examinations account for 10% of a student’s term grade. If appropriate academic progress is not
attained during the school year, students will be moved to the appropriate class for their educational best interest. Courses
may be administratively chosen for students based on assessment scores received in the summer.
1. Academic credit for courses taken by students in the Biloxi Public School District shall be awarded upon successful
completion of courses.
2. Credit for high school courses will be awarded in half-units, full units, or multiple units as approved by the Commission
on School Accreditation, State Department of Education.
3. In grades 7-12, the student must complete both semesters for a full-year (two-semester) course receiving Carnegie
unit of credit with a yearly passing average of 65 or higher in order to receive any credit for that course, subject to the
following guidelines:
a) If a student fails either first or second semester and does not have a high enough average to result in a yearly
average of 65 or higher, he/she must complete the failed semester in summer school or through a correspondence
course or he/she will have to repeat the full course during the following school year.
b) A semester of a different course cannot be substituted, whether through the regular program or through summer
school or correspondence.
c) A student will not be eligible to receive a passing yearly average if either semester is failed due to excessive
absences, subject to administrative review, if granted.
4. No student may receive a score higher than 100 or lower than his/her actual average on his/her report card. Grades
in accelerated and AP classes are weighted and these calculated grades are taken into account for class rank
purposes only. (See “Class Rankings/Scholastic Averages.”)
5. A student who does not complete a class will receive a fifty (50) F. A grade recorded as NC (No Credit) will be counted
as 50 in computing scholastic averages and class rank. Exceptions may be made due to errors or changes made by
administration.
6. Once credit has been awarded based on yearly average for one (1) or two (2) unit courses or final semester averages
for half-unit courses, the course cannot be repeated simply to raise scholastic averages or class ranks through
changing the original grade. If such a course is repeated, both the original grade and the grade for the repeated
course will be included in academic records and in determining class rank or scholastic average.
7. The Biloxi Public School District will recognize and honor courses taken at other accredited schools if courses are
recorded on the permanent record or transcript, but in the matter of required courses, students shall meet all
regulations governing graduation requirements for Biloxi High School.
8. Students transferring into a Biloxi school from a non-accredited school and/or home schooling must be given
achievement tests and/or four (4) term tests in each subject for which a Carnegie unit of credit is awarded.
9. Students who transfer to a Biloxi school who have previously received credit in a course and who are required to
enroll in the class in Biloxi for No Credit will be listed in computer programs and in academic records as “Audit,” with
such “Audit” courses not to be included in determining scholastic averages or class rank.

10. In order to receive a diploma from Biloxi High School, a student must have attended Biloxi High for a minimum of one
(1) full semester, be enrolled in the required number of classes, must meet all grade and graduation requirements as
specified in district policy, and must earn at least two (2) of the last four (4) units of credit in residence at Biloxi High
School. Two (2) units of credit is interpreted as a semester of work. Attendance in summer school will not be counted
toward this requirement.
11. Seventh and Eighth grade students who successfully complete credit bearing courses will be awarded the
appropriate Carnegie units. These courses and grades will be included in computing scholastic averages and class
rankings.
12. In order to graduate Valedictorian or Salutatorian from Biloxi High School, a transfer student must have attended
Biloxi High School for his/her entire senior year and must be enrolled in the required number of subjects and meet
GPA and course requirements.
13. On-line Instruction for Credit – Students enrolled at Biloxi High School may be permitted to earn credits for courses
(not passed previously) through web-based on-line instruction. The district contracts for such on-line instruction, and
credits earned will apply toward the number of credits required for graduation. The district reserves the right to charge
a reasonable fee for such on-line instruction; furthermore, the district retains the option to discontinue this program in
the event of insufficient enrollment or results.
14. Each student is responsible for completing required work without unauthorized assistance. The integrity of the grading
and testing procedures must not be compromised, and any student who is determined to be guilty of cheating will
receive a zero on graded work and will receive appropriate counseling and/or disciplinary action.
15. Reteaching/Retesting is available to all students in accordance with school procedures and requirements. Students
must retest within 10 days of receiving his or her test grade and must do so at the day/time scheduled by the teacher.
Reteaching/Retesting is only allowable on major/unit tests provided by the teacher. Term Tests and benchmark
assessments are not eligible for retesting. Students are limited to one instance of reteaching/retesting per subject
each term. Students must sign up with the teacher for reteaching/retesting within 10 days of receiving his or her test
grade and meet all eligibility requirements. Retesting is not available to students that refuse to take the original
assessment, do not complete the original assessment, or do not provide effort on the original assessment. Students
that fall into the MTSS/SPED/504 categories may be an exception.

DIPLOMA

Students must successfully complete the minimum number of required Carnegie units and required courses on their
selected graduation pathway. They must also pass all required state assessments. The graduation path selected will
impact student’s class rank.

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION/ALTERNATE DIPLOMA
In lieu of the above requirements, a student who has been ruled eligible for special education in the district may exercise
an option to work toward a certificate of completion. At the completion of eighth grade, the requirements for earning a
certificate or diploma will be presented to the parents of a student ruled eligible for special education services, with
explanations of the procedures and requirements for each option. The parents will execute a signed agreement with the
district specifying the option selected. This decision will be subject to reconsideration by all parties. The Individualized
Education Plan (IEP) will thereafter reflect the option selected by the parents and will specify whether the student is seeking
a diploma or certificate. By or before age twenty-one, a special education student will be eligible to receive a certificate and
participate in high school graduation ceremonies upon satisfactory and successful completion of the objectives at an
achievement level consistent with the ability of the student and as specified in the student’s IEP.

TRANSFER GRADES

Students transferring to Biloxi schools with only letter grades will be assigned the following numerical grades:

A – 95
B – 85
C – 75
D – 67
F – Below 65 (not to be assigned below 50)

Letter grades may be converted to number grades as recorded by the transfer student's previous school if an official notice regarding the
grades is received by the school within six weeks after enrollment.
Biloxi Public School District will accept numeric or letter grades on an official transcript from accredited schools. Letter grades will be
converted according to the chart listed above. We cannot, however, recalculate transfer grades for weighting purposes.

 

ADVANCED PLACEMENT/DUAL CREDIT /WEIGHTED COURSES

Students enrolled in Advanced Placement, Dual Credit, and some advanced courses may earn a weighted average upon
the successful completion of the course. Requests for removal from one of these courses must be submitted in writing prior
to the designated date set annually for schedule/course changes.
 Weighted courses are as follows:

o 2020-2021 9th grade cohort and beyond
 Advanced Courses – Weighted at 3% (final average multiplied by 1.03).
• Calculus, Physics, 3rd year foreign language, & 4th year foreign language
 Dual Credit Courses – Weighted at 5% (final average multiplied by 1.05).
 Advanced Placement Courses – Weighted at 10% (final average multiplied by 1.10). AP students
must purchase, sit for, and apply proper effort to the AP Exam in order to earn the weighted
average.

HONOR ROLL - GRADES 9-12

To qualify for term or semester honor roll, a student must have an average of 80 or above on his/her report card for each
subject in which he/she is enrolled for either one-half or one full credit. To qualify for term or semester special honor roll, a
student must have an average of 90 or above in each subject.

CLASS RANKINGS - GRADES 9-12

Senior class rankings will be computed to determine class rank of students graduating with the Distinguished Academic
diploma, and all other matters requiring the listing of class standing, including scholarship applications, college
applications, etc. Computation of scholastic averages will include all courses in which the student was enrolled in grades
nine through twelve for both one-half credit and one full credit per course. Carnegie units of credit earned in grades 7 & 8
are included in determining class rankings.
The procedure for determining class rank is as follows:
1. Scholastic averages are computed for each Carnegie unit earned.
2. All grades are averaged based upon the following pattern:
a. Two-period classes are counted two times each semester.
b. One-period classes are counted one time each semester.
c. Grades for students enrolled in selected Accelerated, Advanced Placement and Dual Credit classes will be
weighted under the following formula: 3% will be added to selected accelerated grades and 5% to Advanced
Placement and Dual Credit grades. Beginning with the 2020-2021 9th grade cohort, Advanced Placement courses
will be weighted at 10% Weight will be applied to class rank and the permanent transcript.
d. Students enrolled in AP courses who elect to take the Advanced Placement test must do so at their own expense.
3. All grades are averaged and carried out four decimal points (example: 78.0001).
4. Students must meet the requirements of their graduation pathway (Distinguished Academic, Academic, Career and
Technical, Traditional, or Alternate Diploma). Students graduating on the Distinguished Academic Pathway will be
listed in rank order. Students graduating on the Academic, Career and Technical, and Traditional (including
Alternate Diploma) Pathways will be listed in alphabetical order according to their pathway.
5. Class rankings and scholastic averages will be computed based on grades when credit is awarded as determined by
final yearly averages for one (1), two (2), and two and one-half (2-1/2) unit courses and final semester averages for
one-half unit courses.
6. For scholarship or college applications, etc., students who request class ranks or scholastic averages at any time prior
to computation of official rankings and scholastic averages at the end of the senior year may be given a
“rank/scholastic average in progress.” Such rank or scholastic average will be subject to change when credit is
awarded and official rankings and scholastic averages are completed
7. To be considered for Valedictorian or Salutatorian, a student must attend Biloxi High School for his/her entire senior
year. Students whose course grades are recorded only as “Pass/Fail” for more than one school year in grades 8-12
shall not be included in computing class rankings.
8. In computing scholastic averages and class rankings, a grade recorded as NC (No Credit) will be counted as 50.

SENIOR LEAVE

For early release during Senior year, students must have met College or Career Readiness Benchmarks on ACT with
sub-scores listed below:
o 17 – English
o 19 – Math
o OR earn Silver level on ACT WorkKeys
o OR meet all of the following criteria:
• Overall GPA of 2.5
• Passed all state assessments required for graduation
• On track to meet diploma requirements
• Enrolled in Essentials for College Math or Essentials for College Literacy

SUMMER SCHOOL

Written permission from the principal is required if a student enrolls in a summer school program not under the auspices of
the Biloxi Public School District. Biloxi High School does not conduct a summer school graduation for any senior who fails
to graduate in May.
Students enrolled in summer school programs provided by the Biloxi Public School District will be assessed a fee per
semester of instruction for credit recovery courses. Refunds are not permitted once the student begins online instruction.
Payment in full is required before the student may begin instruction.
 The operation of summer school will comply with accreditation standards.
 The instructional program will provide students the opportunity to repeat a course failed during the school year.
 Serious discipline matters may result in removal from summer school with no refund.
 Resident students are defined as those students who reside within the boundaries of the Biloxi Public School District.
For determining summer school tuition and summer school enrollment only, students who have been properly released
to and enrolled in Biloxi Public Schools during the regular school year as “tuition” students will be considered “resident”
students and will pay the resident rate for summer school tuition.

CORRESPONDENCE COURSES

A minimum of twenty-four (24) Carnegie units is required by the state for high school graduation for students entering 9th
grade in the 2018-19 school year. Only one (1) Carnegie unit completed through a correspondence course is permitted by
the state to meet graduation requirements. Biloxi students are required to be in the 11th or 12th grade before they enroll in
this correspondence course.
It shall be the policy of the District to permit the student to complete no more than two (2) correspondence courses to meet
graduation requirements. This District policy permitting an additional credit by correspondence course shall apply only to
seniors who expect to graduate in May or June of their senior year and shall not apply to seniors who expect to graduate in
the summer.
In order to receive credit under the above policy, the following criteria must be met:
1. The evaluation criteria must be administered by a certified staff member of the Biloxi Public School District.
2. The course must be approved by the high school principal.
3. Note: The correspondence course must be completed (lessons and tests) by April 15 to allow time for grading and
acknowledging grades. No correspondence course tests will be administered after April 15.
Any transfer student from a school or program (correspondence, tutorial, or home study) not accredited by a regional or
state agency is given either a standardized achievement test(s), an online test or teacher-made special subject test(s) to
determine the appropriate classification of the student. {MS Code 37-15-33}.

CREDIT RECOVERY

“Credit Recovery” shall be defined as a course-specific, skills-based learning opportunity for students who have previously
been unsuccessful in mastering content / skills required to receive course credit or earn promotion. In order to be eligible
for credit recovery, a student must have:
 
1.  Completed the entire course and received a failing grade for the course, and/or
 
2.  Failed a state assessment required for graduation
 
Credit recovery courses are to be used only for graduation requirements.
Credit recovery cannot be used by a student who has passed the course in order to improve the student’s assigned
course grade.
 
A student who has passed a SATP class, but failed the SATP assessment may enroll in credit recovery for remediation
only. The grade earned for the SATP class remains unchanged.
 
Credit recovery courses shall be delivered via computer and online.
 
A student who completes credit recovery to earn a Carnegie unit may only earn the minimal passing grade on the
District’s grading scale.
The credit recovery course must be completed within one year of the student failing the original course.

FIELD TRIPS

As a part of the educational service of the school, students may be taken on field trips. Such trips are made only with the
permission of the parent. When such trips are being planned, permission slips will be sent home to be signed by the parent.
All field trips must be approved by the school principal and district administration and must be supervised by district
personnel. Field trips will not be approved if they coincide with term exams or state assessments. Parents who volunteer
to chaperone are not permitted to bring other children on field trips. Chaperones must be approved by the principal.

MEDIA CENTER/LIBRARY

1. All pupils in the school are entitled to use the media center and check out books. Students should be prepared to
show identification if asked.
2. Reference books, such as encyclopedias and dictionaries, are to be used only in the media center.
3. Books on reserve may be borrowed for one period or after school, in which case they must be returned the next
morning before school starts.
4. Other books may be checked out for a period of two weeks.
5. Ten cents per day is charged for each overdue book.
6. When a reserve book is not returned, the fine is one dollar ($1.00) per day.
7. Students will pay for lost books and will pay fines on books that have been damaged.
8. No book may be taken from the media center unless it is checked out to the borrower.
9. The media center is open each school day before and after school and at times set by the building principal. Students
are urged to use the media center regularly and to comply with the above regulations.
10. School assignments may be printed from the printers in the media center for a fee.

INTERNET SAFETY (CIPA)

The Biloxi Public School District will ensure that it’s CIPA-required Internet safety policies provide for the education
of students regarding appropriate online behavior including interacting with other individuals on social networking
websites and in chatrooms, and regarding cyberbullying awareness and response.
In Biloxi Public Schools, we encourage Internet safety throughout the district. At elementary schools, the importance
of Internet safety is taught in the computer lab and within the classroom. At the secondary level, the importance of
Internet safety is reinforced in technology classes and within the classroom.

ELECTRONIC ACCESS/ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY (IFBDAA) - Revised May 15, 2018

Purpose
The Biloxi Public School District (the “District”) provides employees and students with access to the District’s
electronic communication system, referred to as the District system, which includes Internet access. The District
system has limited educational purpose. The term “educational purpose” includes use of the system for classroom
activities and professional development. The purpose of the District system is to assist students in preparing for
responsible citizenship and success in life. The District system provides electronic access to a wide range of
information and the ability to communicate with people throughout the world. In addition, the District system will
enhance District intercommunication, enhance productivity, and assist personnel in upgrading their skills through
greater exchange of information with their peers and the local community.
This District system is a public network provided by the Mississippi Department of Education. The District system
is fully compliant with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and Child Online Protection Act (COPA)
regulations.
The District may supply students with laptops for use at school and at home. This policy will apply to any District-
owned device. This policy also applies to any student-owned device while used at school or during any District-
sponsored activities.
District Responsibilities
The Director of Technology will serve as the coordinator to oversee the District system, coordinate with other
regional and state organizations as necessary, maintain executed license agreements, provide training in the use
of the District system, and District software, and be responsible for interpreting the District’s Acceptable Use Policy.
Each school’s principal will serve as the building level coordinator for the District system, approve school site
activities, ensure personnel receive proper training in the use of the District system and the requirements of this
policy, establish procedures to ensure adequate supervision of students using the District system, and be
responsible for interpreting the District’s Acceptable Use Policy at the school level.
User Responsibilities
The use of the District system, including the Internet, is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in
the cancellation of those privileges and/or disciplinary actions by the District.
A student’s use of the District system, including the Internet, must be in support of education and research, and
consistent with the educational objectives of the District. In addition, the student accessing the Internet from a school
site is responsible for all online activities that take place through the use of his or her account.
Users may not use the District system for political purposes.

 

Parent Notification and Responsibility
The District will notify the parents and/or guardians about the District system and the policies governing its use. As
the District system offers Internet access, students must have permission from at least one of their parents and/or
guardians to access the Internet at school. Parents and/or guardians may specifically request that their
child/children not be provided Internet access by notifying the District in writing. The District will attempt to abide by
parental requests to restrict access. However, the District is not responsible for user actions that are not in accord
with District policy and procedure.
The District complies with CIPA, the Children’s Internet Protection Act, which was signed into law on December 21,
2000. The District’s Acceptable Use Policy is an Internet safety policy that protects against access through
computers with Internet access, to visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, or (in the case of use by
minors) harmful to minors.
This policy contains restrictions on accessing inappropriate material. There is a wide range of material available on
the Internet, some of which may not be aligned with the values of students’ families. Filtering software will be utilized
to limit access to certain sites and to monitor access to electronic resources. However, it is not possible for the
District to monitor and enforce a wide range of social values in student use of the Internet. Further, the District
recognizes that parents and/or guardians bear primary responsibility for transmitting their particular set of family
values to their children. The District will encourage parents to specify to their child/children what material is and is
not acceptable for their child/children to access through the District system.
District Limitations of Liability
The District makes no warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied, that the functions or the services provided
by or through the District system will be error-free or without defect. The District will not be responsible for any
damage users may suffer, including but not limited to, loss of data or interruptions of service. The District is not
responsible for the accuracy or quality of the information obtained through or stored on the District system. The
District will not be responsible for financial obligations arising through unauthorized use of the system.
Search and Seizure
District system users have a limited privacy expectation in the contents of their personal files on the District system.
Routine maintenance and monitoring of the District system may lead to discovery that the user has or is violating
this policy or the law.
An individual search and appropriate actions, in accordance with District policies, will be conducted if there is
reasonable suspicion that a user has violated the law and/or this policy.
Software, Copyright and Plagiarism
Users will respect the policies and laws regarding software licensure. No unlicensed software will be permitted on
District technology. All licenses must be filed and approved with the Technology Department. Although each user
will provide for timely backup of essential data, no unauthorized copying of data and software will be permitted.
Users will respect the rights of copyright owners. Copyright infringement occurs when an individual inappropriately
reproduces a work that is protected by a copyright. If a work contains language that specifies acceptable use of that
work, the user should follow the expressed requirements. If the user is unsure whether or not they can use a work,
they should request permission from the copyright owner.
Users will not plagiarize works. Plagiarism is taking the ideas or writings of others and presenting them as if they
were original to the user.
Instruction and Selection of Material
All students will be educated about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social
networking sites, in chat rooms, through electronic mail, and/or other forms of direct electronic communications.
Students will also be educated with regard to cyberbullying awareness and response.

When using the Internet for class activities, teachers will select materials for students that are age appropriate and
relevant to course objectives. Teachers will preview the materials and sites they require or recommend for student
access to determine the appropriateness of the material contained or accessed through the site. Teachers will
provide guidelines and/or lists of resources to assist their students in channeling their research activities effectively
and properly. Teachers will assist their students in developing skills to ascertain the truthfulness of information,
distinguish fact from opinion, and engage in discussions about controversial issues while demonstrating tolerance
and respect for those who hold divergent views.
Personal Safety
The District complies with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) that was signed into law on October
21, 1998 and was effective as of April 21, 2000. The purpose of COPPA is to regulate the online collection and use
of personal information provided by and concerning children under the age of thirteen.
 Users will not disclose, use, disseminate or divulge personal and or private information about himself/herself,
minors or any other persons including personal identification information. Personal identification information
includes (but is not limited to) addresses, phone numbers, school address, work address, etc.
 The District will not disclose personal information about students on websites – such as their full name, home or
e-mail address, telephone number, and social security number.
 Users will not agree to meet with someone they have met online.
 Users will immediately report to District personnel any attempt by other Internet users to engage in inappropriate
conversations or personal contact.
Illegal and /or Unacceptable Usage
 User agrees not to access, transmit or retransmit any material(s) in furtherance of any illegal act or conspiracy to
commit any illegal act in violation of local, state or federal law or regulations and/or District policy.
 User shall not access, transmit, or retransmit threatening, harassing, profane or obscene material, pornographic
or sexually explicit material, or material protected by trade secret, and/or any other material that is
inappropriate to minors. User shall not transmit or retransmit copyrighted materials unless authorized. User
shall not plagiarize copyrighted materials. (COPPA)
 User shall not access, transmit, or retransmit any material that promotes violence or the destruction of persons
or property by devices including, but not limited to, the use of firearms, explosives, fireworks, smoke bombs,
incendiary devices, or other similar materials.
 User shall not use the District system for any illegal activity including, but not limited to, unauthorized access
including hacking. This includes attempting to gain unauthorized access to the District system or to any District
technology and attempting to log in through another user’s account or access another user’s files/data.
 User shall not access, transmit, or retransmit language that may be considered offensive, defamatory, or abusive.
 User shall not access, transmit or retransmit information that advocates or could cause danger or disruption.
 Users shall not make deliberate attempts to disrupt the District system performance or destroy data by spreading
technology viruses or by any other means. Vandalism will result in the cancellation of user privileges,
disciplinary action, and/or financial restitution paid by the user and/or parent according to Miss. Code Ann.
§37-11-53. Vandalism also includes any malicious attempt to harm or destroy equipment, materials, or data
of the District or any user.
Inappropriate Language/Harassment (Cyberbullying)
Restrictions against inappropriate language apply to all electronic access such as, but not limited to, public
messages, private messages, and material posted on the Internet.
Users shall not engage in personal attacks, including prejudicial or discriminatory attacks.
Users shall not access, transmit, or retransmit information that harasses, bullies (cyberbullies) another person.
Harassment is persistently acting in a manner that distresses or annoys another person.
Users shall not knowingly or recklessly post false or defamatory information about a person or organization.
Users shall not repost a message that was sent to them privately without the permission of the sender.
Users shall not post private information about another person.

System Resource Limits
 User shall only use the District’s system for educational and career development activities and limited, high quality self-
discovery activities as approved by District’s faculty for a limited amount of time per week.
 User agrees not to download large files unless it is absolutely necessary. If absolutely necessary to download large files,
user agrees to download the file at a time when the system is not being heavily used.
 User agrees not to post chain letters or engage in "spamming" (that is, sending an annoying or unnecessary message to
large numbers of people).
 User agrees to immediately notify his/her teacher or other school administrator should user access inappropriate
information. This will assist in protecting user against a claim of intentional violation of this policy.
User Rights
 User shall have the responsibility to use computer resources for academic purposes only. Therefore, as mandated by
CIPA, filtering will be utilized on all computers accessing the Internet. The only exception will be for academic research
by a staff member with the approval of school administration.
 The District will fully cooperate with local, state or federal officials in any investigation related to illegal activities conducted
through the user's Internet account.
 Under no conditions should a user provide his/her password to another person or use another person's password.
 User should not expect files stored on a school-based computer to remain private. Authorized staff will periodically inspect
folders and logs of network usage will be kept at all times. Routine review and maintenance of the system may indicate
that user has violated this policy, school codes, municipal law, state law or federal law. Parents of minor users shall
have the right to inspect the contents of user's files.
 Individual schools within the District may create additional guidelines and procedures consistent with this policy. Such
guidelines and procedures will be appropriate for the electronic information resources being used and the students
served at the school.
 Use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right. Unacceptable and/or illegal use may result in denial, revocation, suspension
and/or cancellation of the user's privileges, as well as disciplinary action imposed by school officials. The District may
include a process for a student to appeal the decision to deny, suspend, revoke or cancel Internet privileges.
Consequences for Failure to follow Terms and Conditions of Acceptable Use Policy
There will be consequences for any user who fails to follow District and school guidelines and policies. The consequences
may include paying for damages, denial of access to technology, detention, suspension, expulsion or other remedies
applicable under District disciplinary policy, and state or federal law. At the discretion of the District, law enforcement
authorities may be involved and any violations of state and/or federal law may result in criminal or civil prosecution.

GENERAL PROCEDURES REGARDING SELECTION OF SUBJECTS

The policies listed below will be followed by students, parents, and counselors in setting up the students' programs:
1. Students will be permitted to receive through the regular day program the maximum number of units of credit toward
graduation within any one school year (36 weeks).
2. All students attending Biloxi High School, other than those who are in Career & Technical courses which offer two (2),
two and one-half (2-1/2), or three (3) units of credit, must schedule the required number of subjects each school year,
with the exception of seniors as determined by the administration.
3. A student can complete the full two-year Career & Technical course beginning in the eleventh grade; seniors are not
accepted for only one year of an Industrial Career and Technical Trades program.
4. A maximum of two (2) units of credit may be earned or accrued during one (1) summer session.
5. Arrangements may be made for each student to meet with a guidance counselor/advisor to set up his/her program of
studies and sign the Biloxi Public School District scheduling form, which is to be taken home for parent approval and
signature.
6. It is important that all students make proper subject selections in the spring. Computer scheduling is completed during
the summer, and the only schedule changes which shall be made in the fall are those resulting from clerical error.

 

EXEMPTIONS – Grades 9 –12

Exemption is a privilege, not a right. Only students who meet the following requirements may be exempt from semester
tests:
□ The student has no more than four (4) tardies in a term.
□ Exemptions based on Semester I and II data.

Semester 1 Semester 2
Grades based on Semester 1 average Grades based on Semester 2 average
Discipline based on Term 1 and Term 2 Discipline based on Term 3 and Term 4
Attendance based on Term 1 and Term 2 Attendance based on Term 3 and Term 4
Students in grades 7th-12th who meet the following requirements will be exempt from semester exams:
Secondary Classes (7th-12th grades)
o A student with an A average and no more than 5 absences in a class may be exempt from the semester exam for
that class.
o A student with a B average and no more than 4 absences in a class may be exempt from the semester exam for
that class.
o A student with a C average and no more than 3 absences in a class may be exempt from the semester
exam for that class.
o A student with a D average and 0 absences in class may be exempt from the semester exam for that class.
1. Students will be counted absent but will receive an excused absence from classes in which they are exempt.
2. Students who are exempt under this policy will receive grades in progress on report card.
3. Final examinations shall not be given early. A student who withdraws from school prior to taking his/her final
examinations for term or semester shall be given grades in progress.
4. Students are not eligible for exemptions if they have been placed on Steps 4, 5, 6, or 7 of the Discipline Ladder.
5. To be exempt, a student shall not have any outstanding deficiencies, such as textbook or library fines, or fines from
any teacher.
6. Any student not exempt will be required to take the fourth term exam in the course.
7. Any student who cannot provide written documentation regarding his/her absence from a regularly scheduled nine-
week term examination will receive a zero (0) for that exam.
8. Students may be exempt by period.

HOMEWORK

The Board of Trustees recognizes the value of purposeful, well-planned, and properly motivated home assignments that
are (1) appropriate to the grade level, age, and abilities of the student; (2) designed to stimulate initiative and independence
or to reinforce and enrich classroom instruction; (3) in complete accord with the goals established for the development of
the school curriculum; (4) carefully planned so that home assignments are not so lengthy as to be self- defeating nor so
complicated as to require assistance or resource materials not available to the student; and (5) an extension of class work
that has already been introduced.
As in the assignment of in-school work, homework assignments must be left to the sound professional judgment of the
teacher, who will be expected to interpret the needs and assess the abilities and interests of each student.

CLASSIFICATION/PROMOTION/RETENTION POLICY (Grades 9-12)

To be classified as a sophomore, one must have earned six (6) units of credit by the end of grade nine (9); to be classified
as a junior, one must have eleven (11) units of credit; and to be classified as a senior, one must have eighteen (18) units of
credit.
No student shall be given a Carnegie unit of credit for any course in which the student has not achieved objectives as
outlined by the State Board of Education in state curricula and adopted by the School Board of the Biloxi Public School
District. (See "Academic Credit" regarding guidelines governing yearly averages.)

A student with a passing grade of 65 or higher in a computer equivalent course in grades 7 and 8 will meet the computer
proficiency/competency state requirements and will receive one Carnegie unit of credit toward graduation requirements.
Evidence of proficiency in technology is accepted in lieu of the required courses if the student earns one unit in any of the
courses listed in the Business Technology curriculum area that have a strong computer component.
College-bound students should enroll in Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II.
Fifth-year seniors will meet all subject requirements of their 9th grade entry year.

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
SPECIAL EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES – A variety of programs in special education may be offered
based on identified and approved student needs. Classes are provided for children with disabilities who have been
evaluated and determined eligible for placement in a program. Students moving into the district should contact the
Program Developer for Special Education for school assignment. These classes are provided in the Biloxi Public
Schools under the direction of trained and certified teachers of exceptional children. Telephone 435-4600 for further
information.
CHILD FIND PROGRAM – An ongoing project to locate, identify, evaluate, and appropriately place children with disabilities.
Contact the Program Developer for Special Education for additional information.
SPECIAL EDUCATION TESTING – Educational evaluations are provided for students at no expense to the parent(s), to
determine the student's eligibility for placement in special education in the Biloxi Public School District. Referrals must
be made through certified school personnel.
SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKERS – Each school is assigned a social worker to assist students and families as necessary.
GUIDANCE SERVICES – Provided as part of the Biloxi Public Schools testing, counseling, and placement program.
SCHOOL NURSES – Offer health information and special health services for students who need them.
HOMEBOUND PROGRAM – A service available for students who are required because of illness or accident to miss
school for extended, long-term periods, as approved by the homebound coordinator, or for other reasons as approved
by the Board of Trustees for the education of students not in the normal academic program. For information contact
Student Services (228-374-1810).
ENGLISH LEARNERS (EL) PROGRAM – An ongoing program offered in grades K-12, to locate, identify, and assist
eligible students.
CAREER TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS – Offered on campus to students.
SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM – Summer reinforcement that is offered if funds are available and teachers can be secured,
and a need is determined by the administration.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT – Courses offering advanced placement for grades 9-12 with enrollment permitted only after
individual counseling. Students are required to take AP exam if they enroll in the class.
PARTNERS IN EDUCATION – Businesses and schools join to form a partnership for support and excellence.
DRUG PREVENTION EDUCATION PROGRAM – Annual programs conducted with School Resource Officers
CRISIS INTERVENTION – Counseling and consultative services provided to a school or classroom in times of extreme
emotional stress.
INTERVENTION SERVICES-MULTI-TIERED SYSTEM OF SUPPORT AND TEACHER SUPPORT TEAM – Committee of
teachers working cooperatively to construct interventions for students experiencing significant academic or behavioral
problems.

DUAL ENROLLMENT

Dual credit courses are available at Biloxi High School. College courses not offered on the Biloxi High Campus can be
taken as dual enrollment courses. The student must bear all costs of the program. Please see a counselor if you have
questions.
To be considered for dual enrollment, a student must:
 meet all requirements for a dually enrolled high school student (have a 3.00 overall GPA, 14 core credits, and
recommendation from school counselor),
 have personal transportation,
 gain approval and fill out appropriate form in counseling center prior to registration,
 be enrolled in a college class and have proof of enrollment (a paid receipt for tuition to be presented to counselor
no later than two weeks after our school term begins),
 present a grade report at the completion of the class (to prove attendance).
If the student does not prove that he/she is enrolled in a college class within two weeks after the beginning of our school
term, the privilege will be revoked and the student will be scheduled into available elective classes immediately. Additionally,
if a student signs up for dual enrollment and does not complete the class, any later request for dual enrollment will be
denied.
Every attempt will be made to accommodate the student’s request to attend community college classes during the school
day. However, we cannot guarantee that all students who make this request will be able to be scheduled in this way. Our
first priority is to ensure that all students meet our district graduation requirements, and if a required class is scheduled
during a time when it would not be possible to arrange the schedule for dual enrollment during the school day, the request
will be denied.

DUAL CREDIT

The Biloxi Public School District, in cooperation with partnering institutions, will offer high school students who qualify the
opportunity to engage in dual credit courses based upon eligibility criteria. These courses may be taught by college
instructors on the campus of Biloxi High School, and students may earn college credit if they meet the requirements of the
college for course completion. The student must bear all costs of the program. For more information concerning dual credit
options, contact your counselor.
 Grades earned in dual credit classes will be included in class rank.
 A grade received in a dual credit class will be multiplied by a factor of 1.05.
 Successful completion of the course earns a high school Carnegie unit in addition to the college credit.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT

The Biloxi Public School District offers numerous Advanced Placement Courses. Advanced Placement is a program created
by the College Board which offers college level courses and curriculum to high school students. In order to receive a weighted
grade for the course, students must pay a fee to take the end of course assessment, sit for the test and give appropriate effort.
Weighted grades will be calculated by multiplying the final grade by a multiplier of 1.05 for students prior to the 2020-2021 9th
grade cohort and by 1.10 for students in the 2020-2021 9th grade cohort and beyond. College and Universities may grant
college credit if students obtain high scores on the end of course examination.

Biloxi High School
Advanced Placement

Advanced Placement (AP)
 Rigorous national curriculum created by high school & college instructors.
 Allows high school students to take college-level courses and exams and possibly earn college credit.
 Full year courses (except for U.S. Government & Economics).
 Weighted for GPA purposes (if you take and demonstrate effort on the AP exam).
 AP exams are given in May on a day and time de-termined by the College Board. The cost is approximately $95 per exam.
 Scores are rated on a 5 point scale. A 3 or higher will typically earn a student college credit, but each college/university sets its own standard.
 AP Exam scores are not a factor in the students grade for the AP class.
 There is no automatic impact on a college transcript by taking an AP course in high school.
 Research indicates that taking an AP course in high school helps students persist in college and graduate in a timely manner.
Things to consider:
 Additional work load compared to traditional high school course.
 Hard work & self motivation are keys to success.
 Check with potential college/university for their score requirements to receive college credit.

AP Course Offerings
 English
 Language & Composition (English III)
 Literature & Composition (English IV)
 Mathematics
 Calculus
 Statistics
 Science
 Chemistry
 Physics
 Social Studies
 Economics (Semester)
 Psychology
 U.S. Government (Semester)
 U.S. History
 Electives
 Art
 Computer Science

Requirements for Advanced Placement Courses: ACT Composite of 20 or above or overall GPA of 3.0

Advanced Placement / Dual Credit

Students that enroll and later withdraw from an Advanced Placement course will receive a grade of 50/F. The school does reserve the right
to remove students from courses for non-performance.

Biloxi High School
Dual Credit

Dual Credit (DC)
 BHS is partnered with William Carey University.
 College level courses taught on the high school campus during the school day by BHS teachers approved to teach at the college level.
 Courses are one semester (1/2 year) in length.
 Students earn one high school Carnegie unit and 3 or 4 college hours.
 Weighted for GPA purposes.
 A college transcript is generated with DC courses and it will follow students throughout their post-secondary career.
 There is a fee for taking DC courses.
 $40 - One-time registration fee. This fee only applies to the first course taken.
 $135 –Per 3 hour course (prices may change)
 $180 - Per 4 hour course (prices may change)
Things to consider:
 Additional work load compared to traditional high school course.
 Hard work & self-motivation are keys to success.
 Check with potential college/university to ensure that DC hours are accepted at face value or as elective credits.
 More selective schools may not accept Dual Credit hours.

Dual Credit
Course Offerings

 English
 English Composition I
 English Composition II
 Mathematics
 College Algebra
 Trigonometry
 Science
 General Biology I
 Conservation Biology (Science Elective)
 Physical Science
 Social Studies
 World Civilization I
 World Civilization II
 Electives
 Art Appreciation
 Music Appreciation
 Psychology

Requirements for Dual Credit Courses: ACT Composite of 20 or above or overall GPA of 3.0

Advanced Placement / Dual Credit

Students that enroll and later withdraw from a Dual Credit course  will receive a grade of 50/F. The school does reserve the right to
remove students from courses for non-performance.

CURRICULUM DESCRIPTIONS

AIR FORCE JUNIOR ROTC (Aerospace Science)

Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) AFJROTC is an elective course at Biloxi High School open to all
students. The AFJROTC mission is to “develop citizens of character, dedicated to serving their nation and community.”
Participation in the AFJROTC program does not commit young men/women to military service. AFJROTC is divided into
three main areas: Aerospace Science, Leadership Education, and Physical Fitness/Wellness. The Aerospace Science (AS)
part introduces the historical, scientific and technical aspects of aerospace. The Leadership Education (LE) portion provides
experiences to develop discipline, responsibility, communication skills and citizenship. All cadets are also required to
participate in weekly physical training and military drill. All cadets must wear the AFJROTC uniform weekly and maintain
USAF dress and appearance standards. Cadets must also attend three mandatory functions: Cadet Oath Ceremony, Awards
Banquet, and Dining Out/Military Ball. The Mississippi Department of Education allows cadets who take 3 years of JROTC to
receive a high school elective credit and satisfy the PE and Health requirement for graduation.

GENERAL NOTES

1. The student must meet the following eligibility requirements to enroll in AFJROTC:
a. Enrolled in and attending a regular course of instruction at Biloxi High
School.
b. A citizen of the United States or be in resident alien status.
c. In the 9th grade or above.
d. Selected by the Senior Aerospace Science Instructor in coordination
with the principal or designated representative.

2. A $40.00 activity fee (nonrefundable) is due before the end of the first 9-week
term. Cadets who have not paid their activity fee by the end of Term 1 will have a
deficiency placed on their record and will not receive a report card. This fee
covers the AFJROTC T-shirt, the Military Ball and end-of-year Awards Banquet.
BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY
Business and Technology includes courses designed to provide the tools necessary to be successful in professional and
personal lives. The course work provides hands-on training and experience utilizing industry-standard technology. The
competencies are designed to prepare students to enter the work force, continue higher education, or a combination of
both.
.
CAREER TECHNOLOGY COURSES
The purpose of career-technology courses is to prepare young people for initial entry into employment in specific
occupations or closely related trade, industrial, technical, or service fields. All career-technology programs will reflect national
and/or accreditation standards.
Any student who plans to enter a career-technology field after graduation may elect the course of training he/she wishes,
regardless of the student's sex, race, color, national origin, or disability.

ENGLISH and LANGUAGE ARTS
The English curriculum is designed to help students master both verbal and written forms of standard English. Critical
thinking and writing strategies are taught in conjunction with literature. A variety of evaluation methods are used, including
performance-based assessment. The goal of the English Department is the development of good readers, writers, thinkers,
and speakers who will become lifelong learners.
AP Courses are available for English III and IV. Students taking courses will receive a weighted grade for class rank
purposes if they take and apply themselves during AP exams.
1. All students are required to complete four Carnegie units in English for graduation.
2. Students will be placed in a Language Arts focus lab class based on what is in the academic best interest of each
student to prepare him/her for the English II state assessment required to graduate.

EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION
In order that every student may have available the opportunities for education and training within the limits of his/her abilities,
the Biloxi School District offers special education classes and programs to meet the diverse needs of students. Special
instruction and supportive services are designed to help students achieve at the highest level consistent with their abilities.
Special Education for Students with Disabilities - Classes are provided for students with disabilities who have been
evaluated and determined eligible for placement in a program. Students moving into the district should contact the Program
Developer for Special Education for school assignment. These classes are provided in the Biloxi Public Schools under the
direction of trained and certified teachers of exceptional students. Telephone (228)435-4600 for further information.
Diplomas and Certificates – Students may graduate by following the curriculum for a diploma or certificate of completion.
The IEP Committee makes appropriate decisions concerning student assessment. These decisions are then documented
in the IEP as required under IDEA. Depending on the student’s IEP goals, present level of performance, and need for certain
testing accommodations, each student with a disability will participate in statewide assessment programs in one of the
following two ways:
 Being included in the general education curriculum and taking the regular statewide test(s) with any necessary
allowable testing accommodations and/or
 Participating in one of the alternate/alternative assessment processes.
a) The alternative assessment process allows the assessment of students for whom an accurate measure of
performance and progress cannot be obtained using the standard statewide testing programs even with appropriate
accommodations, or
b) The alternate assessment process allows the assessment of students with significant cognitive disabilities who are
assessed on the objectives described in the Mississippi Extended Curriculum Framework.
1. Exceptional Education Testing is provided for students to determine eligibility for placement in exceptional education
classes in the Biloxi School District. Referrals must be made through certified school personnel.
2. Guidance and Special Services extend throughout all the schools in the system, encompassing a comprehensive
testing, counseling, and placement program.
3. School nurses offer health information and special health services for students who need them.
4. Students are required to master basic unit courses before being promoted to the next level.

FOREIGN LANGUAGES

Knowledge of a foreign language, contemporary or classical, contributes to general education and offers manifold career
opportunities. It is desirable for students to gain an understanding of the linguistic and cultural heritages of our country
derived from both the Eastern and the Western hemispheres and from Latin and Greek, in order to gain a better
understanding of our own culture and of the problems of concern to our country.
The study of a foreign language is a progressive experience and implies progressive acquisition of linguistic skills. The
values to be gained from language learning will be related to the amount of time and effort devoted to it and to the learner's
motivation.
1. Students’ grades in French III, French IV, Latin III, Latin IV, Spanish III, and Spanish IV are weighted for class rank
purposes.
2. Secondary foreign language courses at the advanced level (Level III and Level IV) can be taught concurrently (during
the same class period) to increase course offerings for students and will be considered accelerated classes for purpose
of weighting and class rank.
3. It is recommended that students take two (2) consecutive years of the same language to meet IHL requirements.

HEALTH, PHYSICAL EDUCATION and DRIVER EDUCATION
The Comprehensive Health Program of Biloxi secondary schools follows Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) 2020
Contemporary Health and 2012 Contemporary Health Education Curriculum Framework. Per MDE, the curriculum includes
classroom and hands-on experiences that help students acquire the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary for making
healthy decisions, achieving health literacy, adopting health-enhancing behaviors, and promoting the health of others. In this
course of study, emphasis is placed on personal, social, and mental health in today’s society. It includes instruction on human
growth and development, disease prevention and control, substance abuse and prevention, community and environmental
health, nutrition, and wellness, and safety and first aid. Students will receive instruction that is clearly relevant to today’s rapidly
changing world. Classes and projects will be designed to spark student interest and enthusiastic participation as well as provide
a rationale for content relevancy, thus enabling students to connect what they learn in school t other aspects of their lives,
including their futures.
In accordance with Mississippi Code of 1972, Annotated, Section 37-13-171, Biloxi Public Schools seeks to affirm its
commitment to creating healthy and responsible teens and has adopted the Mississippi Department of Education approved
“Abstinence-Plus Education Curriculum.” This curriculum has been reviewed by a parent/teacher committee and approved by the
Biloxi Public School Board, as well as the Mississippi Department of Education.
To participate in Driver’s Education, each student must be at least 15 years of age at the time of enrollment and is
required at the time of enrollment to present a valid driver’s permit or license. The student must hold a provisional
driving permit for one year without violations before applying for a provisional driver’s license or until 17 years of age at the
time he/she can apply for a regular driver’s license. The provisional license must also be held for one year or until 17 years
of age with no violations before a regular license is applied for. Information about the provisional license law may be
obtained from the Mississippi Department of Highway Safety (228-392-1183). Proof of school attendance is required to
obtain a license.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

1. Students who cannot meet the physical requirements for participation in Physical Education must submit a doctor's
statement to that effect, which will excuse them from "dressing out." These students will be given special assignments.
2. Students enrolled in Physical Education will receive one unit of credit upon satisfactory completion of the year's course
or ½ unit of credit upon satisfactory completion of a semester's course.
3. Students will be required to complete a half credit (1/2) of physical education before graduating.

MATHEMATICS

The secondary school mathematics curriculum consists of those courses, units of instruction, and activities designed to
meet both the common and the special mathematical needs of secondary school students. The curriculum focuses on the
development of accuracy and facility in performing fundamental mathematical operations, the ability to analyze and solve
problems of a variety of types and varying degrees of difficulty, and an understanding of the nature and structure of
mathematics so that students will be able to apply the basic principles to entirely new areas. The mathematics curriculum
includes concepts and processes of modern mathematics upon which technical and scientific progress depends. Provisions
are made for students to develop competence in such aspects as proof, organization of data and other information, and
drawing of conclusions, both specific and general. Enrichment opportunities are offered in the Mathematics Department
with Advanced Placement and Dual credit courses.

1. All students are required to complete four Carnegie units in math for graduation, two of which must be above Algebra I.
2. Students will not receive weighted credit for Advanced Placement courses if they do not take the AP exam or do not
apply themselves during the AP exam.
3. If appropriate progress is not attained during the school year, students will be moved to an appropriate math class for
their educational best interest.

SCIENCE

The Science Department at Biloxi High School offers a comprehensive program designed to meet the needs, interests, and
abilities of its students. The goals of the instructional program are to acquaint students with the scientific principles involved
in everyday living and to provide experiences and activities which will enable them to obtain knowledge, learning skills,
career information, and academic excellence. To ensure quality education the instructional program consists of a variety of
teaching techniques: lectures, audiovisual materials, laboratory activities, problem solving, library research, independent
research, and self-directed investigations.
1. Combinations of semester 1/2 credit science courses may be used to meet graduation requirements in science.
2. Students enrolled in Advanced Placement classes are required to take the Advanced Placement test. Students will not
receive weighted credit for Advanced Placement courses if they do not take the AP exam or do not apply themselves
during the AP exam.
3. Student enrolled in Physics will receive a weighted grade that calculates into the GPA for class ranking purposes.
SOCIAL STUDIES
Social studies courses are designed to foster an understanding of our broad cultural heritage and to encourage the
development of civic responsibility, economic awareness, and knowledge of governmental functions necessary for young
citizens. Students examine people's social relationships in all their variations, both past and present; the courses draw their
substance from the disciplines of anthropology, economics, geography, government, history, sociology, and social
psychology. The primary objective of the Social Studies Program is to teach students to think for themselves and to provide
them with the concepts and the modes of inquiry of the social sciences and history. The social studies classroom provides
an environment in which students can inquire into questions dealing with social behavior, an atmosphere in which the search
for truth assumes primary importance. Social studies courses in some areas are offered at the Advanced Placement levels.
Students enrolled in Advanced Placement classes are required to take the Advanced Placement test. Students will not
receive weighted credit for Advanced Placement courses if they do not take the AP exam or do not apply themselves during
the AP exam.

VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

ART
Courses offered by the Art Department are designed to provide the student with an opportunity for creative self- expression.
A broad spectrum of courses are available. Students participating in Art may be assessed a fee.
CHORAL MUSIC
The primary purpose of the secondary school music program is to continue a program of music education that makes a
major contribution toward developing cultural and aesthetic values for all high school students. The Choral Music program
provides a variety of musical experiences, with emphasis on the study and performance of selected musical literature
representative of a wide range of periods, styles, nationalities, forms, composers, and media. Community music resources
and activities are brought to the attention of students, and direct participation is encouraged. Vocal Music develops personal
values derived from participation in music-centered experiences, such as self-discipline, independent thinking, group
responsibility, and satisfaction of achievement. Vocal Music students frequently have the opportunity to perform for the
school system and the community and to represent the school in a number of important events. Students participating in
Choral Music may be assessed a fee.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
The Instrumental Music Department offers a variety of courses designed to help students discover and develop instrumental
musical talent and develop a lifelong appreciation for music. The focus of these courses is on music reading, the expressive
aspects of music, and exposure to a wide variety of music literature through performance. Students participating in
instrumental music may be assessed a fee.
Instrumental music students frequently have the opportunity to perform for the school system, for the community, and to
represent the school in a number of important events.
In grades 9-12, a student may enroll in the Band program and/or String program with the approval of the Band Director
and/or the Strings Director.
THEATRE
The secondary theatre/drama program embraces all of the arts and sciences while encouraging introspection and self-
knowledge. Theatre, drama, and oral communications nurture cultural appreciation and satisfy the aesthetic, intellectual,
and emotional needs of both performers and audiences. Students participating in Theatre may be assessed a fee.

INSURANCE

School insurance is available at the beginning of each school year at a nominal cost to the student. Several plans are
available at the option of the parent and student. All students participating in athletics or enrolled in welding, metal trades,
auto-mechanics, building trades, marine biology, and chemistry are required to have proof of insurance. The school
district does not assume any responsibility for costs in connection with student accident or injury. Parents are encouraged
to have or to purchase student insurance.

FIRST AID

The school attempts to provide an environment in which the child will be safe from accidents. If an accident occurs, first aid
will be administered.
Home telephone numbers, business telephone numbers, and emergency telephone numbers must be furnished to
the school. If the parent/guardian cannot be reached, school officials will act prudently to safeguard the student’s
welfare. Parents/guardians are responsible for notifying the school in writing of any changes in contact
information.
Trained faculty and staff first aid specialists are available in each school.

MEDICATION
No student will be allowed to bring medicine to school. The preference of the Biloxi Public School District is never to administer a prescription medication to a student, but weunde rstand that at times there are needs that justify dispensing prescription drugs.
Only medication prescribed by a licensed physician can be administered to students at school if necessary. No narcotic medication or non-FDA approved medications/substances will be administered at school. If a student is ill and taking over-the-counter medication, he/she should remain at home, or the parent/guardian may come to the school to give theme dication.
When a licensed physician prescribes medication, the parent should arrange (with a licensed physician) for the child to receive the medication at times other than during school hours. With written parental permission certain over-the-counter medications may be administered by authorized personnel if the licensed physician feels it is necessary for the medication to be given at school, the parent must adhere to the following procedure:

1. No student will be allowed to bring any medicine to school and take it without school office personnel supervision;
all medication must be brought to the school by the parent/guardian, with the exceptions of number 5 and 7 below.
2. In the event a medication is brought to the school by a student, the medicine will be immediately confiscated, and
the student may be referred to the building administrator for disciplinary action, with the exceptions of number 5
and 7 below.
3. The parent must bring the medication to the school in the original prescription bottle, which must be labeled as
prescribed by law. Only prescription medication will be dispensed at school.
4. The written consent form must be signed by the parent and the licensed physician and returned to the school
before any medication will be dispensed to the child.
5. A student may carry an inhaler for asthma if a licensed medical physician provides written documentation on the
proper school form. The parent and the licensed physician must complete an asthma action plan and return it to
the school nurse.
6. It is the parent's responsibility to transport medication to the in-school reassignment (ISR) location should his/her
child be assigned to in-school reassignment (ISR) as a result of a disciplinary infraction.
7. A student may carry auto-injectable epinephrine if ordered by their licensed physician. Written permission signed
by the physician/provider and parent must be documented on the district form, Anaphylaxis Action Plan.
Notes:
1. All medication dispensed must be done by approved school office personnel, with the exception of the self-carry
asthma inhaler and self-carry epinephrine pen.
2. It is the responsibility of the student taking medication to keep up with his/her medication time.
3. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to ensure that an adequate supply of medication is available at the
school.

EMERGENCY ACTION BY SCHOOL STAFF

School staff members faced with an emergency affecting the health and welfare of a student will exercise their best
judgments as to procedures for handling the emergency, following established policy and procedural guidelines in every
case insofar as possible. In the event the parent or guardian cannot be reached, the school officials will act to safeguard
the student in every reasonable way.

EMERGENCY OPERATIONS

Because there are a number of school districts in Harrison County, parents and students need to be aware that
announcements related to the dismissal or closing of the Biloxi Public School District should not be confused with
announcements related to the Harrison County School District, which is a separate district. Parents should check email,
websites, and social media for announcements from the superintendent's office or visit the District’s web site,
www.biloxischools.net.
Schools are sometimes faced with emergencies which require the total cooperation of staff members and students. The
Biloxi Public School District has made detailed plans for operating the schools under such emergency conditions as safety
threats, fire, tornado, flood, severe weather, explosions, and other disasters.
Fire drills, lockdown drills, and other disaster preparedness measures are a regular part of each school's program.
Students are expected to learn the procedures to be followed under emergency conditions and to cooperate fully with the
supervising teacher.
In the event of a school lockdown, students will not be released nor will anyone be allowed in the building.
Detailed instructions for emergency operations will be outlined to all students at their respective schools.

STUDENT CONDUCT
Although student conduct in the Biloxi Public School District is considered in most cases to be exemplary and situations
have not arisen to cause undue concern for student welfare and safety, the Biloxi Public School District is required to
establish policies and procedures that detail expectations of students and outline consequences of student misbehavior.
The publication of these policies and procedures in student handbooks will help to assure that there is a clear
understanding among students and parents concerning matters covered in the handbooks under Student Conduct and
Student Activities.
The Board wishes to establish an educational climate in which student behavior is at all times exemplary and in which the
important processes of education can best be carried out. Recognizing the need to support the professional personnel of
the Biloxi Public School District in their instructional and supervisory duties, the Board encourages the development of
harmonious and cooperative relationships between students and faculty members based on mutual respect and
understanding.
Significant interruptions of the educational process resulting from overt disrespect shown by students to faculty members,
unruly student behavior, and vulgar or otherwise discourteous actions will not be permitted.
A student must obey any and all instructions of the faculty and administrators, in the absence of parental instructions to the
contrary. If a student refuses to obey instructions because of contrary parental instructions, he/she may be suspended from
school until a conference between the principal of the school and the student's parents can be arranged. In cases of
emergency, the principal or (in his/her absence), the official then in charge of the school may so inform the student and
require his/her immediate cooperation.
Disciplinary action which may result in suspension or expulsion will be taken as a result of the following student misbehavior:
(1) refusal to follow instructions from faculty members; (2) profane language; (3) failure to identify oneself when asked to do
so by a member of the faculty; (4) insolent, contemptuous, or belligerent behavior or remarks; (5) other just cause.
No student attending school at any attendance center in the Biloxi Public School District shall be permitted to use or to carry
upon his or her person or in any other manner or to have in his or her possession in any way any knife, razor, razor blade,
ice pick, brass or metallic knuckles, pistol, or other weapon, whether the same be manufactured or homemade, BB gun,
cap pistol, plastic or toy gun, laser items or ammunition or any dynamite, firecrackers, caps, or other fireworks of any nature,
kind, or description, or other instrument or paraphernalia which could cause fear, bodily harm, injury, or death to any person.
Students who are in violation of this policy will be subject to immediate arrest.
No student enrolled in the Biloxi Public School District shall be permitted to use, consume, be under the influence of, carry
upon his or her person, or to have in his or her possession any of the substances listed below while on school grounds (this
includes bus stops, school vehicles, campuses, school events, and school activities):
Any and all drugs classified as illegal by local/state/federal law, alcoholic beverages, morphine, marijuana (to
include any levels of cannabis, cannabinoids, THC, CBD, and their derivatives), cocaine in any form, any “leisure”
or recreational drug, opium, heroin (or any derivatives or compounds), LSD, spice, synthetic drugs, tranquilizers, or
unauthorized prescription medications. Any narcotic drug, barbiturate, substance, ingredient, or compound which,
when taken orally, intravenously, inhaled, or applied in any other manner, may cause the person to be under the
influence of any of the same.
The provisions of this policy shall not apply to any student who is under the care of a licensed physician and who is taking
medication as prescribed, which is under the supervision and direction of such physician and school officials while on campus.

DRUG TESTING

All students enrolled in grades seven through twelve shall be subject to random and/or reasonable suspicion drug and
alcohol testing to the extent and in the manner provided in district policy. Students who wish to participate in extracurricular
activities or co-curricular activities, operate machinery, or seek a privilege for which a school permit is required (e.g.,
operating a motor vehicle on campus) may not illegally use or consume alcohol, tobacco products, mood altering substances
or drugs at any time, including school hours and non-school hours, school days and non-school days, twelve months a year.
If the school administration determines that the student who is participating in an activity or enjoys a privilege stated above,
or seeks to participate in any activity or privilege stated above, is engaged in the illegal use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs,
the student may be subject to consequences in accordance with the Biloxi Public School District Drug Policy. Prior to making
this determination and imposing any exclusionary consequence, the administration shall give the student the right to explain
his or her conduct.

All Biloxi students enrolled in grades seven through twelve are subject to drug and alcohol testing provided in district
policy must sign a “Participants Pledge” and the Policy Consent/Release Form as a precondition to his or her participation
or privilege. The student’s signature on the Pledge/Consent Form signifies the commitment to abide by the conditions of
the Biloxi Public School District Substance Abuse Testing Policy and to remain free from alcohol, tobacco, and illegal
substances. The parent’s signature signifies that the parent has read and understands the Biloxi Public School District
Substance Abuse Testing Policy.
The provisions of these policies shall apply to all students during all of the period of time that they are under and subject to
the jurisdiction of the Board of Education of this school district as defined by the laws of the state of Mississippi, and/or while
participating in or going to or from any school activity sponsored by this school district and/or while under the supervision
and direction of any teacher, principal, or other authority of this school district.
Any student violating any of the provisions of these policies of the Board of Education, in the sole and absolute discretion
of the principal of the attendance center wherein such offense is committed, and the Superintendent of Education of the
Biloxi Public School District, or in his absence, his designee, shall be suspended for a period to be determined by the school
administrator and may be expelled in the sole and absolute discretion of the Board of Education of this school district.
Appropriate referrals will be made to juvenile authorities as required under state law.

SEARCHES OF STUDENT

Circumstances will arise where searches of students’ persons, possessions, desks and vehicles will be necessary.
Administrators have the authority and obligation to exercise discretion in the implementation of this policy, balancing the
District’s responsibility to maintain discipline, order, and a safe environment conducive to education with the students’
legitimate expectations of privacy. Searches permitted are as follows: a) persons, possessions, b) desks, other school
property, c) vehicles, d) canine searches, and e) group searches.

Prevention of School Violence
SECTION 1. Section 97-37-17, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:
97-37-17
(1) The following definitions apply to this section:
(a) "Educational property" shall mean any public or private school building or bus, public or private school campus, grounds,
recreational area, athletic field, or other property owned, used or operated by any local school board, school, college or university
board of trustees, or directors for the administration of any public or private educational institution or during a school related activity;
provided however, that the term "educational property" shall not include any sixteenth section school land or lieu land on which is not
located a school building, school campus, recreational area or athletic field.
(b) "Student" shall mean a person enrolled in a public or private school, college or university, or a person who has been
suspended or expelled within the last five (5) years from a public or private school, college or university, whether the person is an
adult or a minor.
(c) "Switchblade knife" shall mean a knife containing a blade or blades which open automatically by the release of a spring or a similar
contrivance.
(d) "Weapon" shall mean any device enumerated in subsection (2) or (4) of this section.
(2) It shall be a felony for any person to possess or carry, whether openly or concealed, any gun, rifle, pistol or other firearm of any
kind, or any dynamite cartridge, bomb, grenade, mine or powerful explosive on educational property. However, this subsection does
not apply to a BB gun, air rifle or air pistol. Any person violating this subsection shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof,
shall be fined not more than Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00), or committed to the custody of the State Department of Corrections
for not more than three (3) years, or both.
(3) It shall be a felony for any person to cause, encourage or aid a minor who is less than eighteen (18) years old to possess or
carry, whether openly or concealed, any gun, rifle, pistol or other firearm of any kind, or any dynamite cartridge, bomb, grenade, mine or
powerful explosive on educational property. However, this subsection does not apply to a BB gun, air rifle or air pistol. Any person
violating this subsection shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not more than Five Thousand Dollars
($5,000.00), or committed to the custody of the State Department of Corrections for not more than three (3) years, or both.
(4) It shall be a misdemeanor for any person to possess or carry, whether openly or concealed, any BB gun, air rifle, air pistol, bowie
knife, dirk, dagger, slingshot, leaded cane, switchblade knife, blackjack, metallic knuckles, razors and razor blades (except solely for
personal shaving), and any sharp-pointed or edged instrument except instructional supplies, unaltered nail files and clips and tools
used solely for preparation of food, instruction and maintenance on educational property. Any person violating this subsection shall be
guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not more than One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00), or be imprisoned
not exceeding six (6) months, or both.
(5) It shall be a misdemeanor for any person to cause, encourage or aid a minor who is less than eighteen (18) years old to possess
or carry, whether openly or concealed, any BB gun, air rifle, air pistol, bowie knife, dirk, dagger, slingshot, leaded cane, switchblade,
knife, blackjack, metallic knuckles, razors and razor blades (except solely for personal shaving) and any sharp-pointed or edged

instrument except instructional supplies, unaltered nail files and clips and tools used solely for preparation of food, instruction and
maintenance on educational property. Any person violating this subsection shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction
thereof, shall be fined not more than One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00), or be imprisoned not exceeding six (6) months, or both.
(6) It shall not be a violation of this section for any person to possess or carry, whether openly or concealed, any gun, rifle, pistol or
other firearm of any kind on educational property if:
(a) The person is not a student attending school on any educational property;
(b) The firearm is within a motor vehicle; and
(c) The person does not brandish, exhibit or display the firearm in any careless, angry or threatening manner.
(7) This section shall not apply to:
(a) A weapon used solely for educational or school-sanctioned ceremonial purposes, or used in a school-approved program
conducted under the supervision of an adult whose supervision has been approved by the school authority;
(b) Armed forces personnel of the United States, officers and soldiers of the militia and National Guard, law enforcement
personnel, any private police employed by an educational institution, State Militia or Emergency Management Corps and any guard or
patrolman in a state or municipal institution, when acting in the discharge of their official duties;
(c) Home schools as defined in the compulsory school attendance law, Section 37-13-91, Mississippi Code of 1972;
(d) Competitors while participating in organized shooting events;
(e) Any person as authorized in Section 97-37-7 while in the performance of his official duties;
(f) Any mail carrier while in the performance of his official duties; or
(g) Any weapon not prescribed by Section 97-37-1 which is in a motor vehicle under the control of a parent, guardian or
custodian, as defined in Section 43- 21-105, which is used to bring or pick up a student at a school building, school property or
school function.
(8) All schools shall post in public view a copy of the provisions of this section.

THREATS OF VIOLENCE

The District will not tolerate threats of violence against any school or facility of the District, or against any individual students or employees of
the District. The State of Mississippi has recently enacted the Mississippi Terroristic Threats Law which makes it a felony for any person to
make a threat to commit a crime of violence or a threat to cause bodily injury to another person if the threat does in fact cause a reasonable
expectation or reasonable fear of the imminent commission of an offense, and if, in making the threat the person has the intent to: (i)
intimidate or coerce a civilian population or a segment of the civilian population to cede to the person’s demands, or (ii) influence or affect, by
intimidation or coercion, the policy or conduct of a unit of government, educational institution, business or segment of the civilian population
to cede to the person’s demands. It is not a defense to prosecution under this law that at the time the threat is made the defendant did not
have the intent or capability to actually commit the specified offense, nor is it a defense that the threat was not made to a person who was an
intended victim of the threatened act. Students who are guilty of making a terroristic threat shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action
as specified.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT/ASSAULT

The Board of Trustees will not tolerate sexual harassment or assault of or by students. Students who are guilty of threatening
or sexually harassing or assaulting other students shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action as specified. Parents
of all students involved must meet with the school administration. The accused student(s) may be removed from school
until investigation is complete. If a student is guilty of sexual harassment/assault and is assigned to sexual harassment
classes, the student must successfully complete the classes in the time designated in order to continue enrollment in the
Biloxi schools.

FIGHTING

Students who are involved in assaults, who engage in fighting or who are responsible in any way for fighting while under
the jurisdiction of the school will be subject to placement at the alternative school, arrest, removal and/or expulsion from
school in accordance with state statutes and/or district policy. This includes fighting while on a bus, at bus stops, or at any
activity/event sponsored by the Biloxi Public Schools. Fighting on the bus or at the bus stop shall result in 45 days off the
bus.

GANG ACTIVITY OR ASSOCIATION

Gangs which initiate, advocate, or promote activities that threaten the safety or well-being of persons or property on school
grounds or disrupt the school environment are harmful to the educational process. The use of hand signals, graffiti, or the
presence of any apparel, jewelry, accessory, or manner of grooming which, by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark,
symbol, or any other attribute which indicates or implies membership or affiliation with such a group, presents a clear and
present danger and is prohibited. This is contrary to the school environment and educational objectives and creates an
atmosphere where unlawful acts or violations of school regulations may occur.
Incidents involving initiations, hazing, intimidations, and/or related activities of such group affiliations that are likely to cause
bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm to students are

prohibited. The School District shall enforce the above rule and attempt to ensure that any student wearing, carrying, or displaying
gang paraphernalia or exhibiting behavior or gestures which may symbolize gang membership and/or participating in
activities which intimidate or affect the attendance of another student shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, in
accordance with the disciplinary ladder.

OTHER PROHIBITED ORGANIZATIONS

No student shall actively participate or wear clothing or other indications of membership in an organization which advocates
violence or hatred toward any group of students and other individuals, or an organization which either intends to or does
disrupt the educational process through its purpose or actions.

SORORITIES, FRATERNITIES, AND SECRET ORGANIZATIONS

State laws specifically prohibit the existence of any sorority, fraternity, or secret society as a part of any high school in
Mississippi. The Biloxi Public School District expressly prohibits use of Biloxi schools as a part of the name of any of these
groups, raising funds in the name of Biloxi schools, conducting any part of their initiation at Biloxi schools (including wearing
of unusual dress, signs, and directions or instructions given to initiates by members), and the use of any school facility–
grounds or buildings–for the purpose of meeting or holding any type of program or exhibition.
The above regulations are not inclusive; other conduct in connection with these groups is forbidden at or in the schools.
Students who violate the position of the Biloxi Public School District in this matter will be subject to suspension, with a
parental conference required before student reinstatement.

VANDALISM

The school district will not tolerate students' writing on or otherwise defacing school buildings, furniture, or other school
property. Students guilty of this offense will be placed on the disciplinary ladder according to school policy, and restitution
will be required from the students and/or their parents/guardians.

TRESPASSING

The administration and the School Board recognize that a problem exists with students who are on the school campus at
night or on weekends for purposes of vandalism or other misbehavior. Students who are found on the school grounds at
unauthorized times will be placed on the school discipline ladder under school policy and will be subject to arrest. In all
instances of such vandalism, restitution will be the responsibility of the students and their parents. Students who are
assigned to out-of-school suspension, recommended for expulsion, or expelled but are on campus unaccompanied by a
parent/guardian will be considered to be trespassing.

DISCIPLINE - GENERAL INFORMATION
The basic objectives of discipline within the school may be described as four-fold:
1. To establish conditions under which no student will be permitted to prevent any teacher from teaching or any student
from learning.
2. To establish and maintain study conditions that are conducive to learning.
3. To develop, on the part of each student, the habits and skills that make him/her self-directive and to help him/her
realize that he/she is responsible for his/her own behavior.
4. To guide students in learning how to make better behavioral choices based on decision-making skills that enable
them to become self-disciplined.
Conferences, reprimands, after-school detention, in-school reassignment, out- of-school suspension or expulsion may follow
student failure to conform to accepted standards of behavior in the school. Disciplinary action may also include referral to
social services officials or other appropriate disciplinary measures including a requirement that the parent or legal guardian
attend classes with the child or attend parenting sessions provided by the school district to help parents or guardians develop
the skills necessary to facilitate the child's continuing enrollment in the regular school program and successful participation
in classroom activities.
PRIVACY OF STUDENT INFORMATION Discipline as well as any other private information of a student will NOT be
discussed with anyone other than that child’s legal parent/guardian.

DETENTION is a supervised consequence for handling student misbehavior. When a teacher requires a student to report
before or after school for disciplinary reasons, that student must do so unless arrangements are made with the teacher.
Students will be given a minimum of one day's written notice prior to detention. The written notice will serve as parent
notification.
IN-SCHOOL REASSIGNMENT (ISR) is a supervised consequence for handling student misbehavior. When a student is
assigned to ISR, the student will report to a specified classroom for a prescribed number of days. It is a forfeiture of
participation in regularly scheduled school activities for the time designated. During the time of reassignment, graded work
will be assigned, and all assignments must be completed during this time. Additional time in ISR may be given for failure to
complete assignments in the ISR program. A student who disrupts the ISR program will be referred to the appropriate
building administrator, and the student will advance to the next step of the discipline ladder. When a medical condition is
present, it is the parent’s responsibility to transport needed medications to ISR and notify ISR of any medical needs.
OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS) is a forfeiture of participation in regularly scheduled school activities for the time
designated during suspension. Graded work missed during the time of suspension may be made up at a time designated
by school officials. When required, parents must have a conference with the designated school administrator before the child
will be allowed to return to classes. Telephone calls will not be acceptable. Students will complete the assigned
suspension out- of-school in its entirety prior to being permitted to return to class. Upon suspension, student will be provided
Due Process Policy JCAA.
EXPULSION is the total exclusion of the student from participation in or attendance at any school-related activity. Appeals
may be made to the Board of Education. A student who has been expelled from the Biloxi Public Schools must apply in
writing to the Board of Education for possible readmission.
Repeated patterns of misbehavior may require counseling and parental involvement and assistance to the extent that the
parent may be requested to come to school and attend classes with the student in order to identify and correct such
behavioral patterns.
Under the Mississippi School Safety Act of 2001, a student who is deemed habitually disruptive as defined by law shall be
subject to automatic expulsion. (See specific references in district policy manual.)

EXPELLED STUDENTS - STUDENTS NOT ATTENDING SCHOOLS - EXCLUSION FROM SCHOOL PROPERTY

Students who have been expelled from this or other school districts or former students who are not attending school(s) in
this or other school districts shall not be on any campus of the Biloxi Public School District or enter any school property
except on school business which is specifically authorized by the building administrator, with the individual required to report
to the school office for written permission. Such students are specifically prohibited from having any unauthorized contact
with members of the school staff or students attending the Biloxi schools, using abusive, obscene, or profane language,
and/or violating any local and state prohibition in regard to drug or alcohol possession or use, possession of weapons, or
other misbehavior. If these students or former students are found on the campus of any Biloxi school, police will be called
and charges will be filed.

VIDEO SURVEILLANCE

The Board authorizes the use of surveillance cameras on district property, on school buses and in classrooms, and on
district campuses.
Because of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and confidentiality, only authorized school personnel or law
enforcement officials shall be permitted to view surveillance records.
Video cameras may be used in locations as deemed appropriate by the administration.
The school is not responsible for loss of valuables or personal items that students may bring to school. Should a loss occur,
administrative time will not be used to investigate video records.

ASSERTIVE DISCIPLINE PROGRAM

The discipline program which will govern student behavior includes the following list of disruptions of the instructional
program, together with the consequences which will follow. The student who engages in the type of misbehavior listed under
disruptions will be placed on the appropriate step in the discipline ladder, with the consequences clearly listed.

All disruptions/discipline problems and consequences shall be applicable to all students during all periods of time they are
under and subject to the jurisdiction of the Board of Education of this school district as defined by the laws of the State of
Mississippi and/or while they are participating in or going to or from any activity sponsored by this school district and/or
while under the supervision and direction of any teacher, principal, or other authority of this school district.

Secondary (Grades 7-12) School and Bus Discipline Ladder

Discipline/Disruption Consequences

1. Possession of a weapon as defined in student conduct (Reported to Police)
(37-11-18)

1. Step 7
2. Bomb Threat 2. Step 7
3. Terroristic threat (Mississippi Terroristic Threat) 3. Step 7
4. Tampering or opening emergency equipment, devices, or exits 4. Step 6-7
5. Use or possession of fireworks 5. Step 5-7
6. Use or possession of laser items 6.Step 2-6
7. Use, sale, possession, or distribution of drugs including spice, drug paraphernalia,
or being "under the influence" (Reported to Police) (67-1-81)

7. Step 6-7
8. Use, possession, or distribution of medicine 8. Step 3-7
9. Use, sale, possession, or distribution of alcohol or alcohol-related products
(Reported to Police) (67-1-81)

9. Step 6-7

10. Use, sale, possession, or distribution of tobacco or tobacco-related products
including e-cigarettes, vaping and vaping paraphernalia. (May be reported to
Police)

10. Step 4-6 **
City Court
11. Gambling, possession, or distribution of gambling devices 11. Step 3-5
12. Possession of pornography 12. Step 4-7
13. Profanity or vulgarity (to include acts, gestures, or symbols directed at another
person) (97-29-47)

13. Step 4-6
14. Harassment, intimidation, or threatening of other students or staff (97-3-85) 14. Step 4-7
15. Fighting/ (Reported to Police) Group fight (3 or more)/Physical assault 15. Step 6-7
16. Use, possession, or distribution of dangerous objects 16. Step 2-7
17. Gang activity, association 17. Step 3-7
18. Biting 18. Step 4-7
19. Sexual harassment/assault 19. Step 4-7
20. Horse playing on campus or bus 20. Step 1-5
21. Public display of affection 21. Step 2-7
22. Dress code violation 22. Step 1-4
23. Chewing gum on the bus 23. Step 3-4
24. Improper behavior on campus or bus 24. Step 2-5
25. Disrupting instructional time 25. Step 2-7
26. Defacing or otherwise injuring school district owned property (to include writing on
school walls, inside or outside) (to include restitution for damages) (37-11-19)

26. Step 3-6
27. Stealing (to include restitution) 27. Step 4-6
28. School bus or campus disturbance 28. Step 4-6
29. Late to school bus stop 29. Step 2-4
30. Failure to board bus immediately 30. Step 2-4
31. Misbehavior at a school bus stop 31. Step 2-7
32. Getting off the bus at the wrong stop (May be reported to Police) 32. Step 3-6
33. Boarding the wrong bus 33. Step 4-5
34. Failure to serve bus suspension 34. Step 4-6
35. Other misbehavior as determined by the administration on campus or bus (bus-
disregarding bus staff instructions, failure to stay seated, not in assigned seat,
consuming beverages and/or food, throwing objects, loud talking or noises,
littering, etc.)

35. Step 2-7

36. Disrespectful behavior to faculty or staff members 36. Step 2-6
37. Defiance of authority 37. Step 2-6
38. Refusal to identify oneself properly when requested to do so by a faculty or staff
member

38. Step 4-5
39. Lying to authorities 39. Step 4-6
40. Using forged or altered documents (report cards, progress reports, parental notes,
hall or bus passes, other students lunch numbers, etc.) (97-32-9)

40. Step 4-6
41. Failure to serve assigned detention 41. Step 1-4

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42. Failure to report to the office 42. Step 4-6
43. Unauthorized fund raising, including sale of candy and gum 43. Step 1-4
44. Failure to return fundraising items or equivalent money (to include restitution) 44. Step 3-5
45. Tardies 45. Step 2-4
46. Cutting classes/truancy 46. Step 3-5
47. Out of area or misbehavior 47. Step 2-4
48. Leaving campus without authorization (May be reported to the Police Department) 48. Step 3-5
49. Leaving class without permission 49. Step 1-4
50. Trespassing 50. Step 4-6
51. Driving violation or failure to yield to a school bus stop arm (Meeting or overtaking:
MS 63-3-615) (with possible loss of driving privileges) Grades 9-12 only

51. Step 1-3
52. Recording or sharing explicit videos or pictures (includes videos of fights) 52. Step 4-7
*

Numbers in parenthesis refer to laws of MS Code of 1972
** In accordance with Mississippi Code 97-32-29, a citation will be issued and a fine will be assessed by the City Court.
Any discipline problem resulting in the student's placement on Steps 4-7 may be reported to police if appropriate.
Successful completion in an administrative program may be available in Steps 5 and 6.
Cumulative misbehavior, singularly inappropriate misbehavior or misbehavior which occurs after placement on Step 5 or 6
of the Discipline Ladder may result in placement on Step 7 of the Ladder.
SCHOOL DISCIPLINE LADDER, 7-12

(Consequences listed below each step of the discipline ladder are not sequential and will not be followed in order)

Step 1 1. Contact parent or legal guardian (phone or visit).
2. Student conference.
3. Removal from ladder if not referred to office for five (5) school days from entry onto ladder.
Step 2 1. Contact parent or legal guardian (phone or visit).
2. School detention (1 or 2 days).
3. Failure to report to detention will result in the student's being placed on Step 4 of the Discipline Ladder.
4. Any student who is disruptive or uncooperative in school detention will be referred to an administrator for further
discipline.
5. Removal from ladder if not referred to office for ten (10) school days from date of entry onto the ladder.
Step 3 1. Contact parent or legal guardian.
2. Parent and student conference. Detention, in-school reassignment (ISR), or suspension off the bus three (3)
days.
3. Loss of all privileges during time of ISR and a loss of the right to privileges and/or the right to participate in
4.
extracurricular activities.
Removal from ladder if not referred to office for fifteen (15) school days from date of return to school after
consequence.

Step 4 1. Contact parent or legal guardian.
2. In-school reassignment (ISR), one (1) to three (3) days and/or Suspension off the bus three (3) to five (5) days.
3. Loss of all privileges during time of reassignment/suspension and a loss of the right to privileges and/or the right
to participate in extracurricular activities.
4. Parent may be required to attend an in-person meeting and/or classes with student during time to be
determined by administrator.
5. Removal from ladder if not referred to office for twenty (20) school days from date of return to school after
suspension.

Step 5 1. Contact parent or legal guardian.
2. Out-of-school suspension, three (3) to five (5) days or in-school reassignment (ISR) for three (3) to five (5) days,
3.
and Suspension off the Bus five (5) to ten (10) days.
Referral to central office and intervention as determined by administration.
4. Loss of all privileges during time of reassignment/suspension and a loss of the right to privileges and/or the right
to participate in extracurricular activities.
5. Parent may be required to attend an in-person meeting and/or classes with student during time to be
determined by administrator.
6. Removal from ladder if not referred to office for twenty-five (25) school days from date of return to school after

35

suspension.

Step 6 1. Contact parent or legal guardian.
2. Out-of-school suspension for five (5) to ten (10) days and suspension off the bus forty-five (45) days or for the
3.
remainder of the semester/school year.
Referral to and meeting with designated central office administrator.
4. Loss of all privileges during time of suspension and a loss of the right to privileges and/or the right to participate
in extracurricular activities.
5. Parent may be required to attend an in-person meeting and/or classes with student during time to be
determined by administration.
6. Removal from ladder if not referred to office for thirty (30) school days from date of return to school after
suspension.

Step 7 1. Contact parent/legal guardian.
2. Ten (10) days out-of-school suspension. Recommendation for expulsion. A copy of Due Process/Hearing
Procedures Policy JCAA will be given to the student and parent.
3. A student may be recommended for expulsion at any time the administrator feels that the student's actions
4.
warrant such recommendation.
Loss of all privileges during time of suspension and a loss of the right to privileges and/or the right to participate
5.
in extracurricular activities.
If a student returns to school, probation for thirty-five (35) school days; removal from ladder if not referred to
office for thirty-five (35) school days from date of return to school after suspension and/or determination by the
School Board.

A student may be recommended for expulsion at any time if the administration feels that the student's actions warrant such
recommendation.
A. Incentive is provided for the student to improve his/her behavior through provisions of a probationary period that
allows a student to remove himself/herself from the discipline ladder by improved conduct.
B. A parent/guardian conference with an administrator may be required before a student can return to school after a
suspension. (Steps 3, 4, 5, or 6)
C. A student may enter the Discipline Ladder at any step, depending upon the nature of the offense.
D. Failure to complete the punishment as designated may result in escalation to the next step in the ladder.
E. Return to the office during the probationary period prescribed in the Discipline Step may result in escalation to the
next step.
F. Loss of privileges means that during the time stated the student cannot participate in assemblies or any school
function designated as an extra activity, including athletic events, dances, plays, extracurricular programs, field trips,
school-sponsored activities, etc.
G. A student may be suspended from riding to and from school on the school bus as a result of misbehavior on the
bus.
H. In all disciplinary matters, a student will be accorded due process under the district policy JCAA governing student
rights.
I. All disciplinary actions are subject to administrative options as to placement on the disciplinary ladder in keeping
with the severity of the student misbehavior.
J. A student may be placed in Alternative Education either through action by the Board of Trustees or through
Administrative Placement.
K. Refer to Policy JCA.

REQUIRED PARENT CONFERENCES

Any parent, guardian or custodian of a compulsory-school-age child who (a) fails to attend a discipline conference to which
such parent, guardian or custodian has been summoned under the provisions of this section, or (b) refuses or willfully fails
to perform any other duties imposed upon him or her under the provisions of this section, shall be fined not to exceed Two
Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250.00). MS Code Section 37-11-53

SCHOOL SAFETY ACT

In accordance with the Mississippi School Safety Act of 2001 (Section 37-11-53, MS Code of 1972, amended), the
following policies shall be in effect in the Biloxi Public School District:
 (a) A parent, guardian or custodian of a compulsory-school-age child enrolled in the school district shall be

responsible financially for his/her minor child's destructive acts against school property or persons; (b) a parent,
guardian or custodian of a compulsory-school-age child enrolled in the district may be requested to appear at school
by the school attendance officer or an appropriate school official for a conference regarding acts of the child
specified in (a) above or for any other discipline conference regarding the acts of the child; (c) any parent, guardian
or custodian of a compulsory-school-age child enrolled in a school district who refuses or willfully fails to attend
such discipline conference specified in (b) above may be summoned by proper notification by the Superintendent
of Schools or the school attendance officer and be required to attend such discipline conferences.
 Any parent, guardian or custodian of a compulsory-school-age child who (a) fails to attend a discipline conference
to which such parent, guardian or custodian has been summoned under the provisions of this section, or (b) refuses
or willfully fails to perform any other duties imposed upon him or her under the provisions of this section, shall be
guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not to exceed Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250.00).
 The School District shall be entitled to recover damages in an amount not to exceed Twenty Thousand Dollars
($20,000.00), plus necessary court costs, from the parents of any minor under the age of eighteen (18) years and
over the age of six (6) years who maliciously and willfully damages or destroys property belonging to the school
district. The action authorized in this section shall be in addition to all other actions which the school district is
entitled to maintain and nothing in this section shall preclude recovery in a greater amount from the minor or from
a person, including the parents, for damages to which such minor or other person would otherwise be liable
 The School District's discipline plan may provide that as an alternative to suspension, a student may remain in
school by having the parent, guardian or custodian, with the consent of the student's teacher or teachers, attend
class with the student for a period of time specifically agreed upon by the reporting teacher and school principal. If
the parent, guardian or custodian does not agree to attend class with the student or fails to attend class with the
student, the student shall be suspended in accordance with the code of student conduct and discipline policies of
the school district.
The teacher is the authority in classroom matters and his/her decisions which are in compliance with the written discipline
code of conduct shall be supported by the administration. The teacher shall have the right to remove from the classroom
any student who, in the professional judgment of the teacher, is disrupting the learning environment, and send him/her to
the office of the principal or assistant principal.

Children 13 and Older

The school principal, reporting teacher and student's parent/guardian shall create a written behavior modification plan for
any child who for the second time causes a disruption in the classroom which seriously interferes with the teacher's ability
to communicate with the students in a classroom, with students' ability to learn, or with the operation of a school or school-
related activity. The creation of this plan is not required for disruptions which are violations of law or offenses which amount
to a Step 6-7 offense. If the child fails to follow the behavior modification plan, he/she may be deemed "habitually disruptive"
and recommended for expulsion. The superintendent of schools and the principal of a school shall have the power to
suspend a pupil for good cause, including misconduct in the school or on school property, as defined in Section 37-11-29,
on the road to and from school, or at any school-related activity or event, or for conduct occurring on property other than
school property or other than a school-related activity or event when such conduct by a pupil, in the determination of the
superintendent or principal, renders that pupil’s presence in the classroom a disruption to the educational environment of
the school or a detriment to the best interest and welfare of the pupils and teacher of such class as a whole, or for any
reason for which such pupil might be suspended, dismissed or expelled by the school board under state or federal law or
any rule, regulation or policy of the local school district.

SCHOOL BUS DISCIPLINE

The privilege of riding a school bus carries with it some responsibilities on the part of the student. Drivers are expected to
keep order and discipline on the bus, but their major responsibility has to be driving the bus. Therefore, students are
expected to cooperate with the regulations.
School buses and bus stops are assigned to qualifying students. No bus passes are given to permit deviation from the
assigned bus. (Transportation Director, 436-5140)
Any act which places the safety of the students on the bus at risk will be referred to the principal for appropriate action.
Student behavior may be monitored on a random basis through video recording equipment installed on district buses.
Students found to be continually disruptive or threatening to the safety of other students will be immediately removed from
the bus and will be suspended from bus transportation.

INTERFERENCE WITH SCHOOL BUSES

It is unlawful for any individual other than a member of the public-school administration or faculty or a law enforcement
official to interfere in any way with the operation of a school bus. State law prohibits unauthorized boarding of school buses
or interference with passenger boarding or leaving, under penalties of fine and/or imprisonment.

STAFF PROTECTION

A person guilty of simple assault, as defined by statute, upon superintendent, principal, teacher or other instructional
personnel, school attendance officer, school bus driver, or other individuals specified in state law while these individuals are
acting within the scope of their duty, office, or employment shall be punished by a fine of not more than one-thousand dollars
($1,000) or by imprisonment for not more than five (5) years or both. (Section 97-3-7, Mississippi Code, amended)
A person guilty of aggravated assault, as defined by statute, upon an individual named above shall be punished by a fine
of not more than five-thousand dollars ($5,000) or by imprisonment for not more than thirty (30) years or both. (Section 97-
3-7, Mississippi Code, amended)

BACKPACKS/BOOK BAGS 9-12

Bookbags/back packs are permitted.

ITEMS CONFISCATED

Cell phones or any other items recovered during a criminal investigation will be retained as evidence by law enforcement
and held until the appropriate courts render a decision.

POSSESSION OR USE OF CELL PHONES AND/OR ELECTRONIC DEVICES

The Biloxi Public School District recognizes the importance of integrating emerging technologies with the academic learning
process. Our cell phone policy has been crafted to utilize such technology while providing a safe and orderly instructional
environment with minimum distractions. Students may possess cell phones on campus, but they must be used in
accordance with school procedures.
Cell phones and earbuds/headphones may only be used in the classroom when the teacher gives specific instructions for
their use for academic purposes. Classroom disruptions involving any electronic device will result in the student’s
placement on the discipline ladder as in any other classroom disruption.
Electronic devices brought to school are the responsibility of the students. All personal property brought to school is an
understood risk.
Electronic devices used to violate district policy, state regulation, and federal regulations in such ways as sexting, bullying,
sending or receiving inappropriate photographs, dishonest academic practices, or any other illegal uses may be subject to
confiscation. Items that are confiscated as a result of violation of the policy will be secured by the administration until
released to the student’s parent/guardian by a school administrator. Failure to comply will result in the student’s placement
on the discipline ladder in addition to confiscating the device. There shall be no exceptions (Policy JGJ).

POSSESSION OR USE OF TOBACCO

Possession or use of tobacco in any form is prohibited within the school buildings, on the school campus, going to or from
school, at school-sponsored activities, or in the general vicinity of the school campus. Students possessing or using tobacco
in any form including non-tobacco “E-cigarettes” and vaping paraphernalia at school will be issued a citation and assessed
a fine by the City Court system.
State law mandates that no person under eighteen (18) years of age shall purchase any tobacco product. No student of any
high school, junior high school or elementary school shall possess tobacco on any educational property as defined by state
law.

PARKING REGULATIONS (faculty, staff and students, grades 9-12)
There will be NO assigned parking numbers for faculty. All faculty and staff in grades 9-12 must secure a parking decal.
The decal will cost $5.00. Insurance, driver’s license, and registration papers are required to obtain a current decal.
Senior parking will be on the south side of the activities building in the parking lot designated for senior parking.
Underclassmen will park west of senior parking in the parking lot designated student parking. Vehicles parked in other than
designated areas will be towed at the owner's expense.
Students must register their vehicles with the proper school authority and secure a school parking decal to be placed on the
bottom of the driver’s side of the windshield. All students are required to have school parking identification on ANY vehicle
brought to school. A student entering the campus without a parking decal will surrender his/her driver's license to the school
authority. It may be picked up in the office before you leave school.
Junior high school students are not permitted to drive motorized vehicles to school.
No student will loiter about, tamper with or in any way damage any vehicle. A student who does so will be held liable for
damages. Students are not permitted to sit in parked cars. Students may not go to their cars during school hours.
Motorized vehicles that are driven to school must have proper tags, and student drivers must have drivers' licenses and
must purchase school parking decals.

DRESS AND GROOMING CODE - PHILOSOPHY

Dress and grooming codes are based upon certain sound foundations, not just arbitrarily selected and dictatorially enforced
for no cause. Laws surrounding indecent exposure, conditions necessitating safety and personal well-being, health and
sanitation are some of the basic fundamentals. Conditions conducive to learning must not be impaired because of temporary
and individualized fads. In order for students to be able to cope with even larger restrictions and responsibilities, they must
learn while still in school to observe basic regulations set forth for the group as a whole. Keeping this total concept in mind
and realizing a need to satisfy peer group desires for current fashions, the Board will make an effort periodically to restructure
the dress and grooming code according to current conditions.

SCHOOL DRESS CODE – 9-12

Clothing and other items that students wear to school must not disrupt the educational process nor create any
form of school disturbance. In addition, but not limited to the list below, the student must follow these guidelines:
 Students will be required to wear clothing as garments are intended to be worn.
 Length of shorts, skirts and dresses must be school appropriate and non-revealing.
 Leggings/tights may be worn with shorts, skirts, or tops that are school appropriate and non-revealing.
 Safe and appropriate footwear must be worn at all times.
 Appropriate undergarments must be worn and not seen.
 Pants or shorts must be worn at waistline with no exposure of undergarments.
Inappropriate items include:
 Any items symbolic of gang attire.
 Clothing with logos or wording promoting/referring to alcohol, tobacco, or drugs.
 Clothing containing slogans or logos depicting vandalism, bigotry, violence, sexual connotations, suicide,
fraternities, sororities, secret organizations, or those with double meaning.
 Any top that is revealing. Examples are tank tops, cut-off tops, tube tops, halter tops, racer-back tops, bathing
suits, sports bras, or midriffs, muscle shirts, low cut tops, spaghetti straps, etc.
 Spiked accessories and chains are prohibited.
 Clothing with holes, cuts, or tears revealing inappropriate areas of the body.
 Hats, caps, bandannas, do-rags, visors, sunglasses, “hoodies,” or other headwear.
 Pajamas, house slippers, bathrobes, blankets, etc.
In all instances, the appropriateness or inappropriateness of school dress or appearance will be determined by school
administrators, considering the style or manner in which the clothing is worn or its fit.
Students who are dressed inappropriately will be required to call parents to bring a change of clothes that conforms
to the dress code.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

When required, students participating in extra and co-curricular activities must have on file at the school written parent
consent and liability waiver forms. In order to participate in any extra or co-curricular activity, the student must attend school
for at least four class periods on the day of the scheduled activity.
In determining eligibility for tryouts and participation in student activities requiring at least minimum grade averages for
semesters and terms, grades will be weighted in accordance with the formula explained under "Class Rankings."
No student in the Biloxi Public School District shall be retained at any grade level for the purpose of extending eligibility for
participating in athletics or any other school activity.

UNIFORMS

Any student attending the Biloxi Public Schools who shall be required to wear or who shall choose to wear a uniform or
other type of dress because of his/her participation in a school activity, which dress is clearly and readily identifiable with
the Biloxi Public School District, whether the uniform or other type dress is provided to the student by the school system or
whether the student provides the uniform shall be expected to conduct himself/herself while in such uniform, at all times, in
a manner acceptable to the school system.
This behavior is required whether or not the student is under the direct supervision of the school and/or its personnel and
whether or not the student is on school premises or at an official school function.
It is the intent of the administration to inform such student that his/her participation in activities may be denied, terminated,
or restricted as a result of behavior determined to be unbecoming or unacceptable to the school administration and/or Board
of Education while the student is wearing a uniform identifiable with the Biloxi Public School District.
Uniforms provided for school activities shall be maintained in good condition and returned clean and will remain the property
of the school district. Such uniforms which are damaged shall be paid for in full by the student’s parent/guardian.

ACTIVITY SCHEDULE

On designated school days the school will operate an activity period schedule. The activity period will be used for events,
meetings and assemblies. Announcement of meetings at the activity period will be made in advance.

FUNDRAISING

An organization must receive prior approval from the principal and the superintendent before beginning any fundraising
project. No student representing groups outside school will be permitted to conduct fund raising activities in the school.
Students possessing candy or other items at school for sale to other students, other than for school-sponsored and approved
activities, will be subject to placement on the discipline ladder.

PARTIES

In the Biloxi Public School District, 7–12 parties will only be permitted with principal approval. There will be no spontaneous
parties or dances. Plans must be made by the sponsor of each activity and submitted in writing to the principal at least ten (10)
school days before the activity. (Policy JHD)

ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY

ACADEMIC RULES FOR STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN ACTIVITIES

To be eligible for athletics and activities, students must pass the number of courses required by their local district in order
to stay on graduation track. The units will be averaged as a whole, either numerically or by GPA, and must be a 2.0 or
better each semester in order to maintain eligibility.
A student athlete may become eligible for the second semester only once during his/her high school career if he/she fails
the year-end average the previous year, by passing the required number of units with a 2.0 GPA. This will be done in
order to keep the student on track for graduation.
NOTE: Detailed information on eligibility can be found in the MHSAA Sports Information Manual or on the MHSAA
website, www.misshsaa.com , home page under “Eligibility.”
To be eligible for high school activities, the middle/junior high school student must have a 2.0 overall average (computed
numerically or by GPA) for the four core courses (English, Math, Science, and Social Studies) from the preceding semester.
The year-end average for the spring semester will be used to compute averages for the fall semester. Students must be
on track to be promoted to be eligible.
Summer school or extended school year grades will replace the grade for a failed course in the spring semester GPA.
All students participating in athletics will be required to have on file written parent consent, proof of insurance, liability waiver,
concussion information form and medical screening by a licensed physician.
Eligibility for competitive activities is determined by the athletic director according to the rules of the Mississippi High School
Activities Association. Students must meet all requirements established by the MHSAA.

PARTICIPATION IN INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC/EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Tuition students are not eligible for participation in athletic and other interscholastic activities until the student has been
enrolled for one school year.
All students must meet eligibility requirements for inter-school activities governed by regulations of the Mississippi High
School Activities Association.

Children First Act of 2009 (Section 2)

A student who is enrolled in any grade higher than grade 6 in a school district in this state must be suspended from
participation in any extracurricular or athletic activity sponsored or sanctioned by the school district after a semester in which
the student’s cumulative grade point average is below a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. The suspension from participation in
extracurricular or athletic activities may not be removed until the student’s cumulative grade point average in a succeeding
semester is 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. A student with a cumulative grade point average below a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale at the
semester of an academic school year shall be suspended from participation in extracurricular or athletic activities in the
succeeding academic school year until the student’s cumulative grade point average is 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

SPORTS - 9-12

The Biloxi Senior High School athletic program includes the following major sports: football, basketball, track, baseball,
tennis, golf, volleyball, fast-pitch softball, cross-country, swimming, soccer, archery and bowling.
Biloxi High School participates in District, South Mississippi, and State tournaments.
Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA)

Pupils who are bona fide residents of Biloxi who attended a private or parochial school during the preceding school session
are eligible to try out. They may also try out if they are coming into the 7th or 9th grade since they establish their eligibility
at these levels for junior high and high school. In addition, the MHSAA considers individual cases that may fall under a
"hardship rule."

Students should refer to the Athletics Handbook for regulations governing athletics.

INTRODUCTION TO CHEERLEADER, DRUM MAJOR, COLOR GUARD MEMBER, DANCE TEAM TRY-OUTS, SHOW
CHOIR MEMBER, and STUDENT BODY, STUDENT COUNCIL, and CLASS OFFICER ELECTIONS
The selection and participation in the extracurricular activities of cheerleader, drum major, color guard member, dance team
member, show choir member, student body officer, Student Council officer or representative, and class officer are privileges
rather than rights afforded to individual students. It is the administration's intent to apply stringent rules upon those who may
be eligible for try-outs and elections as well as to apply those rules during the period of continued participation of such
students. Privilege comes with responsibility. Those who are selected are representatives of the entire student body and are
expected to conduct themselves, at all times, to reflect favorably upon the Biloxi school system.
The following requirements for try-outs and elections, as well as the standards set for continuation as cheerleader, drum
major, color guard member, dance team member, show choir member, student body officer, Student Council officer and
representative, and class officer, shall apply equally to conduct during participation in school activities as well as all times
outside and beyond the high school activity so long as the student may be identified as a representative of a student body
of the Biloxi Public Schools.
The school principal and/or athletic director shall be the sole authority in determining whether the alleged act or acts of
misconduct reflect adversely upon students of the public-school district to the extent of resulting in disqualification for try-
outs or for election or for continuation of eligibility.
In order to be eligible for try-outs or for election as cheerleader, drum major, color guard member, dance team member,
show choir member, student body officer, Student Council officer or representative, or class officer, the student must meet
all requirements established under policies specifically related to each activity in addition to being subject to the regulatory
principles set forth above.
Students who reside in the Biloxi Public School District are eligible to try out for or participate as cheerleader, drum major,
dance team member, show choir member, or color guard member if they meet the requirements of this policy; and tuition
students are eligible if they meet the requirements of the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA).

REQUIREMENTS FOR CHEERLEADER TRY-OUTS and ELIGIBILITY FOR CONTINUATION AS A CHEERLEADER

Cheerleaders must meet the following requirements to be eligible for try-outs, and all requirements must be maintained to
be eligible for continuation as a cheerleader.
1. Must maintain a cumulative 70 average for the semester preceding the try-outs. Grade averages will be calculated
by the guidance office with data available from cumulative records and carried out four decimal places. Grades will
not be rounded. Grades will be monitored by sponsors. Cheerleaders whose average goes below a 70 will be
subject to probation. Continuation of grade probation will result in dismissal from squad.
2. Must not be or have been placed on Step 5, 6, or 7 of the disciplinary ladder during the previous and current
semesters.
A parent or legal guardian and the prospective cheerleader must sign the “Participation Clearance" form before the try- outs,
complete the application by the deadline, and attend a mandatory parent meeting.
Eighth grade students who reside in the Biloxi Public School District are eligible to try out for high school cheerleader or
dancer provided they meet all other requirements of this policy. Tuition students are eligible if they meet the requirements
of the Mississippi High School Activities Association.
No alternate cheerleaders will be selected.

REQUIREMENTS FOR DANCE TEAM TRYOUTS and ELIGIBILITY FOR CONTINUATION AS A DANCE TEAM MEMBER - 9-12

Dance team members must meet the following requirements to be eligible for try-outs, and all requirements must be
maintained to be eligible for continuation as a dance team member.
1. Must maintain a cumulative 70 average for the semester preceding the try-outs. Grade averages will be calculated
by the guidance office with data available from cumulative records and carried out four decimal places. Grades will
not be rounded. Grades will be monitored by sponsors. Dance team members whose average goes below a 70 will
be subject to probation. Continuation of grade probation will result in dismissal from squad.

2. Must not be or have been placed on Step 5, 6, or 7 of the disciplinary ladder for the current school year for tryouts
and during the time they serve as members of the dance team.
A parent or legal guardian and the prospective dance team member must sign the "Dance Team Qualification and
Responsibilities" form before the try-outs, complete the application by the deadline, and attend a mandatory parent meeting.
Eighth grade students who live in the Biloxi Public School District may try out for the ninth through twelfth grade dance team
provided that they have met all other requirements of this policy. Tuition students are eligible if they meet the requirements
of the Mississippi High School Activities Association.
No alternate dance team members will be selected.

REQUIREMENTS for COLOR GUARD TRY-OUTS and ELIGIBILITY for CONTINUATION AS COLOR GUARD MEMBER

Color guard members must meet the following requirements to be eligible for try-outs, and all requirements must be
maintained to be eligible for continuation as a color guard member.
1. Must be a member of the School Band.
2. Must maintain an over-all 70 average for the semester preceding the try-outs or activity. Grade averages will be
calculated by the guidance office with data available from cumulative records and carried out four decimal places.
Grades will not be rounded.
3. Must not be or have been placed on Step 5, 6, or 7 of the disciplinary ladder for the current school year for tryouts
and during the time they serve as members of the color guard.

REQUIREMENTS for DRUM MAJOR TRY-OUTS and ELIGIBILITY for CONTINUATION AS A DRUM MAJOR

Drum major(s) must meet the following requirements to be eligible for try-outs, and all requirements must be maintained to
be eligible for continuation as a drum major.
1. Must maintain an over-all 70 average for the semester preceding the try-outs or activity. Grade averages will be
calculated by the guidance office with data available from cumulative records and carried out four decimal places.
Grades will not be rounded.
2. Must not be or have been placed on Step 5, 6, or 7 of the disciplinary ladder for the current school year for tryouts
and during the time he/she serves as drum major.

REQUIREMENTS FOR PERFORMANCE-BASED CHOIR AND SHOW CHOIR TRY-OUTS AND ELIGIBILITY FOR CONTINUATION AS A PERFORMANCE-BASED CHOIR AND SHOW CHOIR MEMBER

Performance- Based Choir and Show Choir members must meet the following requirements to be eligible for try-outs, and
all requirements must be maintained to be eligible for continuation as a performance-based or show choir member.
1. Must not have failed the previous year and must maintain an over-all 70 average for the semester preceding the
try-outs. Grade averages will be calculated by the guidance office with data available from cumulative records and
carried out four decimal places. Grades will not be rounded.
2. Must not be or have been placed on step 5, 6, or 7 of the disciplinary ladder for the previous school year for try-
outs and during the time he/she serves as a member of the show choir.
A parent or legal guardian of the prospective Performance-Based choir member and Show Choir member must sign the
"Performance-Based and Show Choir Rules/Student Participation" packet before the try-outs.
Eighth grade students who live in the Biloxi Public School District may try out for the ninth through twelfth grade
Performance-Based and Show Choir provided that they have met all other requirements of this policy.

REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENT CONDUCTOR TRY-OUTS AND ELIGIBILITY FOR CONTINUATION AS A STUDENT CONDUCTOR

Student conductor(s) must meet the following requirements to be eligible for try-outs, and all requirements must be
maintained to be eligible for continuation as a student conductor.
1. Must be a member of the Biloxi High School Concert Choir (Biloxians).
2. Must maintain an overall 70 average for the semester preceding the try-outs or activity. Grade averages will be
calculated by the guidance office with data available from the cumulative records and carried out four decimal
places. Grades will not be rounded.
3. Must not have been placed on Step 5, 6, or 7 of the disciplinary ladder for the previous school year for tryouts and
during the time he/she serves as student conductor.

STUDENT BODY, STUDENT COUNCIL, and CLASS OFFICERS - GRADES 9-12

Student body officers, classified as juniors, elected by the current juniors, sophomores, and freshmen of the student body
at large in the second semester of the current school year, include the president and vice-president, who shall serve in
these capacities on the Student Council.
Current junior, sophomore, freshman and eighth grade classes will each vote during the second semester of the school
year for next year's senior, junior, and sophomore class officers. The four (4) class officers are president, vice-president,
secretary, and treasurer. Class officers serve on the Student Council as class representatives. They may not hold any other
office on the Student Council.
QUALIFICATIONS for ANY CLASS OFFICER or ANY POSITION on the STUDENT COUNCIL and ELIGIBILITY for
CONTINUATION as a CLASS OFFICER or OFFICER of the STUDENT COUNCIL - GRADES 9-12

Students must meet and maintain the following qualifications to be eligible as a candidate to run for any class office or
position on the Student Council, and all requirements must be maintained to be eligible for continuation as a class officer or
for any position on the Student Council.
1. Must maintain an over-all average during the semester preceding elections for the positions as listed below (grade
averages will be calculated by the guidance office with data available from cumulative records and carried out four
decimal places and will not be rounded):
A. Student Body President and Student Body Vice President -- 80
B. Class officers and Student Council Officers -- 80
C. Student Council Representatives -- 75
2. Must not be or have been placed on Step 5, 6, or 7 of the disciplinary ladder for the current school year to run for
office and also during the time they serve as class officer or Student Council officer or representative.
3. Must not have received unsatisfactory citizenship marks from three or more teachers during the current school year.
4. Must not have been declared inactive from Student Council membership the previous year or current year as a
result of lack of attendance at Student Council meetings or activities or as a result of violation(s) of the Student
Council Constitution.

GRADES 9-12 Only

5. Any student running for the office of Student Body President or Student Body Vice President must have served at
least one year in good standing on the Biloxi High School Student Council.
6. A student must meet the requirements and qualifications for any class office, student body office, Student Council
office or position as set forth in the by-laws and constitution of the Biloxi High School Student Council. Copies of
the Student Council constitution and by-laws are available in the office of the principal.
7. No late or incomplete applications will be considered.

PROCEDURES FOR CAMPAIGNING - GRADES 9-12

All candidates eligible for office may use campaign flyers and stickers approved by the principal or his/her designated
representative before dispensing. Students campaigning for any office should make an effort to keep expenses to a
minimum. Campaign signs are permitted in the designated area only, with specific days designated for campaigning. All
political materials of an informative nature, intentions, and campaign materials must be approved by the principal. There
shall be no promotional items given to other students as part of the campaign. Students are responsible for the removal of
all campaign materials from the school building and campus by the end of the campaigning time.

STUDENT BODY PRESIDENT AND VICE-PRESIDENT - GRADES 9-12

The election of the student body officers is held during the third term. In order to become a candidate, a student must be
classified as a junior and have served as a member in good standing for at least one year on the Biloxi High School Student
Council. The student must also turn in to the principal or his/her designated representative a completed application. The
student must also submit an essay with the application, explaining his/her personal attributes as a positive influence on the
student body, his/her leadership experience and goals which he/she hopes to achieve if elected. The application also
includes endorsements from two (2) of his/her current teachers and the Student Council advisor. If the student is currently
a class officer, one of the three endorsements must be from his/her class sponsor. Students failing to submit this
endorsement with the completed application by the designated deadline will not qualify for the office. A candidate's speech
is required to be presented to the student body. A candidate's speech must be in the office and certified by the principal two
(2) days before speeches are given. The speech must be delivered as previously written and approved, with no additional
or ad-lib remarks. Candidates who alter their approved speeches will be declared ineligible and removed from the ballot.

FRESHMAN, SOPHOMORE, JUNIOR AND SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS - GRADES 9-12

The junior, sophomore, and freshman classes of the current year will elect by secret ballot during the second semester the
following officers: president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer. Students must also have endorsements from three of
their current teachers. If currently a class officer, one of the three endorsements must be from his/her class sponsor. If a
current Student Council member, one of the three endorsements must be from the Student Council advisor. Students failing
to submit this endorsement with the completed application by the designated deadline will not qualify for the office. A speech
by a candidate for class president is required and must also be turned in with the completed application.
The candidate will be required to present the speech to the student body. A copy of the speech must be in the principal's
office and certified by the principal two (2) days before speeches are given. The speech must be delivered as previously
written and approved, with no additional or ad-lib remarks. Candidates who alter their approved speeches will be declared
ineligible and removed from the ballot.
In order to be qualified as a candidate, the student must have sufficient credits to be classified as a member of the class
he/she wishes to represent.

STUDENT COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES - GRADES 9-12

Current junior, sophomore, and freshman classes will elect Student Council representatives during the second semester of
the school year for the next year's senior, junior, and sophomore class representatives from a ballot of candidates who have
submitted a completed application. Students must also have endorsements from three (3) of their current teachers. If the
candidate is also currently on the Student Council, one of the three endorsements must be from the Student Council advisor.
Students failing to submit these endorsements and the completed application by the designated deadline will not qualify for
the office.
New freshman class representatives will be elected during the first term of the new school year following the same procedure
as is used with the elections in the second semester, except for the following change: Students must have endorsements
from three of their current teachers. They are not required to get the Student Council advisor's signature.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS - GRADES 9-12

All officers are elected by secret electronic ballot. In case of a tie, the election will be decided by the vote of the Student
Council.

ELECTION OF REPRESENTATIVES - GRADES 9-12

Each class involved in the election will vote by secret ballot for ten (10) of the class representative positions.

COUNTING OF THE VOTES - GRADES 9-12
All voting will be verified by the Student Council advisors and designated faculty member.

STUDENT COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP -- TRANSFER STUDENTS - GRADES 9-12

Any transfer student in Biloxi High School who was a Council member at his/her previous school will receive honorary
membership in the Biloxi High School Student Council upon request.

WHO’S WHO - GRADES 9-12

Students pick up applications for Who's Who Contest in the front office. Student must completely fill in information on
application and follow specific guidelines on application to qualify for Who's Who Contest. Student must not have been
placed on Step 5, 6, or 7 of the discipline ladder. Student must have endorsement of 10% of respective class to qualify for
contest. Only students classified as seniors with a minimum of eighteen (18) credits are eligible for Who's Who titles.
Students must be classified in the grade level for which they are applying. A student may receive only one title; and in case
he/she receives two or more, the student is given his/her choice. Class favorites are elected by freshmen, sophomores and
juniors. All rules and regulations must be followed. Applications will not be accepted after the deadline. Each class votes for
its respective candidates. The female student with the highest number of votes for a specific title will be recognized and the
male student with the highest number of votes for a specific title will be recognized. In the Miss BHS and Mr. BHS category
only, the top four females with the highest number of votes and the top four males with the highest number of votes will be
placed on the ballot to determine Mr. and Miss BHS. Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors vote for Mr. and Miss

BHS only. The female student with the highest number of votes will be Miss BHS. The male student with the highest
number of votes will be Mr. BHS. Voting will take place in designated areas under administrative direction or in the presence
of an assigned staff member.

HOMECOMING ELECTIONS / CLASS MAIDS & ESCORTS – GRADES 9-12

Homecoming application packets will be in the front office. Female students may complete an application for Homecoming
Maid if they meet all of the specific guidelines on the application to qualify for the Homecoming Court contest. Male students
may complete an application to serve as a Homecoming Escort if they meet all of the specific guidelines on the application
to qualify for the Homecoming Escort contest. Students for both contests must not have been placed on Steps 5, 6, or 7 of
the discipline ladder. All rules and regulations must be followed. Applications will not be accepted after the specified
deadline.
The two freshmen with the highest number of votes in both contests will be freshmen homecoming court maids/escorts. The
three sophomores with the highest number of votes in both contests will be the sophomore homecoming court
maids/escorts. The four juniors with the highest number of votes in both contests will be the junior homecoming court
maids/escorts. The seven seniors with the highest number of votes in both contests will be the senior homecoming court
maids/escorts. After senior homecoming court maids/escorts are selected, a separate contest will be held to select the
homecoming queen/king by a vote of the entire student body. The senior female receiving the highest number of votes will
be the homecoming queen and the senior male receiving the most votes will be the homecoming king. The senior female
with the second highest number of votes will be the homecoming maid of honor. Grand Marshal and crown bearers will be
selected by the principal or his/her designee.
Homecoming maids will be presented at the Homecoming football game and will be escorted by their father (or designee).
Homecoming maids will also be presented at the Homecoming Dance and will be escorted by the elected Homecoming
Escorts.

PROM COURT ELECTIONS Grades 9-12

Prom court application packets will be in the front office. Senior female students may complete an application for Prom Court
if they meet all of the specific guidelines on the application to qualify for the Prom Court contest. Senior male students may
complete an application to serve as a Prom Court Escort if they meet all of the specific guidelines on the application to
qualify for the Prom Court Escort contest. Students for both contests must not have been placed on Steps 5, 6, or 7 on the
discipline ladder. All rules and regulations must be followed. Applications will not be accepted after the specified deadline.
Ten senior females and ten senior males with the highest number of votes will be selected as prom court. After the prom
court is selected, a separate contest will be held to select the prom queen and the prom king.

STUDENT PUBLICATIONS - GRADES 9-12
Students of Biloxi High School publish the Indian Echo, school yearbook; and Indian Etchings, literary magazine.
The Board specifically prohibits publication in school papers, magazines, yearbooks, and other school-sponsored
publications of any item which may libel any person, items with anonymous writers or sources, materials which are
considered by teacher advisors/sponsors or by the principal to be obscene or in poor taste, materials which might result in
any possibility of violence, or items which might damage or hurt any person.

CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS - GRADES 9-12

Every student is encouraged to participate in at least one school club.
Charters for school clubs are issued by the Student Council for one year. Application for charter should be addressed to the
principal via the Student Council, should state the purpose of the club, and should contain the sponsor's signature and the
signature of at least ten prospective members who pledge themselves to participate actively in the activities of the club.
School clubs will meet after school in the evening, with the club sponsor.
The secretary of each school club is required to write the minutes of each meeting (signed by the president and faculty
sponsor) in club minutes book and to submit minutes to the principal as requested.
A brief description of school clubs and organizations will be presented to students at the beginning of the year.
A signed parent permission form is required for any student to be a member of a club/organization at Biloxi High School.

HONOR ORGANIZATIONS

Kitty Hawk Air Society – An academic honor society of the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps.
Mu Alpha Theta – Sponsored by the Mathematical Association of America to enable students with mathematical ability to
broaden their knowledge of mathematics.
National Business Honor Society – A club for students who meet high academic standards in business courses.
National Honor Society – A club for students who meet high citizenship standards and a scholastic requirement of 90
average or above; open only to juniors and seniors, by invitation only.
National Technical Honor Society – A club for students enrolled in Career-Technical classes who meet high citizenship
standards and have an overall GPA of 90 or above. Student must also be a member of a career-technical club to
be considered; open to juniors and seniors by invitation only.
Spanish National Honor Society – A club for students who have a 95 average for three semesters of Spanish, are
recommended by a Spanish teacher, have an overall average of 90, and possess the qualities of character,
leadership, seriousness of purpose, and service/commitment to others. The society is open to sophomores, juniors,
and seniors, by invitation only
Tri-M National Music Honor Society – Sponsored by the National Association for music Education, Tri-M is for band, choir,
strings, and piano students by invitation only who maintain a minimum 80 average in each class, display good
citizenship, and are enrolled full-time in a music class with a minimum 90 average.

BAND - GRADES 9-12
Membership in the band is based on the current musical requirements (see band director), and by the recommendation of
the junior high director or previous high school director. Participation is also based on good behavior. Students who fail to
show maturity through a lack of discipline will not be allowed to enroll in the band class. The band program includes a jazz
band.
Band camp is held for two weeks during the summer and is a prerequisite for participation.
Students must attend all scheduled rehearsals and performances. Students are required to meet with the director prior to
enrolling in the class, where they will receive a complete list of obligations for band participation.

DRAMA AND CHOIR - GRADES 9-12

Members of the Biloxi High School Choral and Drama Departments entertain at many school and community activities.
Members of the concert choir and drama competition teams are selected by audition by the director. Choir members are
furnished a choir uniform by the school for the use of each choir member.
There is a costume fee for drama competition team members. Choir and drama competition students will rehearse in class
and after school. Students may be required to pay some or all of competition costs.
Members of the select ensembles, madrigals, and show choir are selected by audition by the director or outside committee
and may be asked to purchase their own uniforms, which will remain in their possession.
Competition drama and choir students must attend all scheduled rehearsals and performances. Students are required to
meet with the director prior to enrolling in the class, where they will receive a complete list of obligations for choir and drama
participation.
Auditioning for choir and drama is a prerequisite to selection as a member of the choir or ensembles.

SENIOR RECOGNITION PROGRAM - GRADE 12

This program will recognize recipients of scholarships and awards, as well as other outstanding accomplishments of the
senior class.

AWARDS PROGRAM - GRADES 9-12

Highest academic achievement in departments and/or courses will be recognized in awards programs for students. The
comprehensive awards program in all grades recognizes outstanding academic work or other student achievement and
includes, but is not limited to, academic letters for classroom excellence.

HALL OF FAME - GRADE 12

Seniors may be selected for membership in the Biloxi High School Hall of Fame, designed to recognize the most outstanding
graduating seniors. Hall of Fame members will be featured in the Indian Echo.

SENIOR CLASS ORATOR - GRADE 12

The class valedictorian and salutatorian will speak at the graduation exercises. Two other graduating seniors with honors
may be selected as senior class orators and may speak at graduation exercises.

HONOR SOCIETY

BILOXI HIGH SCHOOL CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY GRADES 11-12

Selection Procedure

1. All faculty members are asked to nominate students for membership (juniors and seniors only- Exceptions
determined by NHS by-laws). To be eligible for nomination and membership a student must have been enrolled in
Biloxi High School for at least one semester.
2. The grades of the students nominated are reviewed to determine if the students are eligible. (To be eligible, a
student must have a cumulative grade point average of 90, beginning with the ninth grade.)
3. Eligible students are asked to complete a student activity information form to determine leadership and service.
4. A faculty council (five teachers selected by the sponsor and principal) will evaluate the returned forms based on the
four guidelines: scholarship, character, leadership, and service. The candidates are accepted based on the
evaluation made by this committee, by examination of any disciplinary actions taken by the school against the
student, and by examination of the classes taken by the students.
5. Transfer students who are members of NHS at their previous schools will be considered probationary until they
have been evaluated by the Biloxi High School process.
6. In order to wear the NHS stole at graduation, seniors must be in "good standing." This means that all dues have
been paid and that they have met the required number of meetings and service credits. They will be informed of the
required number at the beginning of the year.
7. In order to run for office, a junior must be in "good standing." This is the same as being in good standing for
graduation.
8. NHS members may be placed on probation or dismissed if their grades fall below the required GPA of 90 or if they
break the school rules.
9. All NHS members will be required to turn in a copy of their report card to the sponsor each term.
According to the handbook of the National Honor Society, students are not to apply for this honor. Students are
nominated and selected on the criteria listed above.
Only those service hours and service projects, which have been pre-approved, or assigned by the sponsor(s) will be
accepted for credit.

POLICIES

Any policy changes or updates throughout the school year will be available to view online at www.biloxischools.net and
addendums will be sent home with each student. Policies can be located under the “Students & Parents” tab of the
website.
Important policies to be aware of:
 Policy JC – Code of Conduct
 Policy JCA – Student Grievances
 Policy JCAA – Due Process
 Policy JDDA – Student Bullying
 Policy IHA – Grading / Retesting

GRADUATION PATHWAYS

Graduation Pathways and assessment requirements are available in the counseling center.

Senior Year – In order to have a “Flexible Schedule” students must be enrolled in or have taken a
total of 5 or more Advanced Placement or Dual Credit courses (any combination). page 60a
Biloxi Public School District Diploma Options

Traditional Diploma Option

Academic Endorsement Diploma Option

Requirements
 Students should identify an endorsement area prior to entering 9the grade. Endorsements can be changed at a later date with parental
permission
 For early release during Senior year, students must have met College or Career Readiness Benchmarks on ACT with sub-scores listed below:
o 17 – English
o 19 – Math
o Or earn Silver level on ACT Work Keys
o Or meet all of the following:
□ Overall GPA of 2.5
□ Passed all state assessments required for graduation
□ On track to meet diploma requirements
Enrolled in Essentials for College Math or Essentials for College Literacy

Additional Requirements
(above Traditional Diploma)
 Earn an overall GPA of 2.5
 Courses must meet Mississippi IHL college preparatory curriculum (CPC)
 Earn Mississippi IHL and community college readiness benchmarks with
ACT sub-scores listed below (or SAT equivalent):
o 17 – English
o 19 – Math
 Earn two (2) additional Carnegie Units for a total of 26
 Must successfully complete one (1) of the following:
o One (1) AP course with a C or higher and take the appropriate AP exam
o One (1) academic dual credit course with a C or higher in the course
o One (1) Diploma Program-IB course with a C or higher and take the appropriate IB exams
Recommended:
 Take ACT Prep course
 Take two (2) consecutive foreign language courses

Curriculum Area Carnegie Required Subjects

Units

English 4  English I
 English II
Mathematics 4  Algebra I
Science 3  Biology I

Social Studies 3 ½

 1 World History
 1 U.S. History
 ½ U.S. Government
 ½ Economics
 ½ Mississippi Studies

Physical Education ½
Health ½
Arts 1
College & Career
Readiness 1  Must occur in the student’s
junior or senior year.

Technology or
Computer Science 1
Additional Electives 5 ½
Total: 24

Curriculum Area Carnegie Required Subjects

Units

English 4  English I
 English II

Mathematics 4

 Algebra I + two (2)
additional math courses
above Algebra I

Science 3

 Biology I + two (2)
additional science courses
above Biology I

Social Studies 3 ½

 1 World History
 1 U.S. History
 ½ U.S. Government
 ½ Economics
 ½ Mississippi Studies

Physical Education ½
Health ½
Arts 1
College & Career
Readiness 1  Must occur in the student’s
junior or senior year.

Technology or
Computer Science 1
Additional Electives 7 ½

 Must meet 2 advanced
electives of the CPC
requirements for MS IHL’s

Total: 26

Senior Year – In order to have a “Flexible Schedule” students must be enrolled in or have taken a
total of 5 or more Advanced Placement or Dual Credit courses (any combination). page 60b
Biloxi Public School District Diploma Options

Distinguished Academic Endorsement Diploma Option

Additional Requirements
(above Traditional &
Academic Diploma)
 Earn an overall GPA of 3.0
 Courses must meet Mississippi IHL
college preparatory curriculum (CPC)
 Earn national college readiness
benchmarks with ACT sub-scores
listed below (or SAT equivalent):
o 18 – English
o 22 – Math
 Earn four (4) additional Carnegie
Units for a total of 28
 Must successfully complete three (3)
of the following (any combination):
o AP course with a B or higher
and take the appropriate AP
exam
o Academic dual credit course
with a B or higher in the course
o Diploma Program-IB course
with a B or higher and take the
appropriate IB exams
Recommended:
 Take ACT Prep course
 Take two (2) consecutive foreign
language courses

Career & Technical Endorsement Diploma Option

Additional Requirements
 Earn an overall GPA of 2.5
 Earn Silver level on ACT WorkKeys
 Earn two (2) additional Carnegie
Units for a total of 26
 Must successfully complete one (1)
of the following:
o One (1) CTE dual credit or earn
articulated credit in the high
school CTE course
o Work-Based Learning
experience or Career Pathway
Experience
o Earn a State Board of
Education approved national
credential

Curriculum Area Carnegie Required Subjects

Units

English 4  English I & English II
Mathematics 4

 Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II
 one (1) additional math
course above Algebra II

Science 4

 Biology I + two(2) additional
science courses above Biology I
(one of which must be
Chemistry, Physics, APScience,
or DC science)
 Only (1) Science elective

Social Studies 4

 1 World History
 1 U.S. History
 ½ U.S. Government
 ½ Economics
 ½ Mississippi Studies

Physical Education ½
Health ½
Arts 1
College & Career
Readiness 1  Must occur in the student’s
junior or senior year.

Technology or
Computer Science 1
Additional Electives 8  Must meet 2 advanced
electives of the CPC
requirements for MS IHL’s

Total: 28

Curriculum Area Carnegie
Units

Required Subjects

English 4  English I
 English II
Mathematics 4  Algebra I
Science 3  Biology I
Social Studies 3 ½

 1 World History
 1 U.S. History
 ½ U.S. Government
 ½ Economics
 ½ Mississippi Studies

Physical Education ½
Health ½
Arts 1
College & Career
Readiness 1  Must occur in the student’s
junior or senior year.

Technology or
Computer Science 1
CTE Electives 4  Must complete a four-course
sequential program of study

Additional Electives 3 ½ 
Total: 26

SCHOOL COLORS
The school colors are red and white.

ALMA MATER
Let's sing to our dear alma mater
A song from hearts sincere;
Let voices ring with adoration;
Her name we will revere.
To her we will be ever loyal;
Her fame will never die.

So here's to you, our alma mater, dear Biloxi High.

B.H.S. FIGHT SONG
Here’s to B.H.S. and the football crew.
We are so loyal in our love for you.
Here’s to B.H.S., always true blue,
If you’re for Biloxi High, then here’s to you.

ATTENDANCE
SECONDARY (Grades 9-12)
Consequences of Excessive Absences
(calculated per class period)

Three (3) days --- Parental Contact
Five (5) days --- Reported to State Attendance Officer/Parental Contact
Twelve (12) days --- Administrative Review,
50 (F) in all classes missed/
year, Parent/guardian can be
charged with child neglect
(Please see explanations
below.)

1. The Biloxi Public School District supports the philosophy that the instructional program is the most vital part of formal
education. Experience has shown that a high quality of work is virtually impossible with irregular attendance;
therefore, students are expected to attend school at all times when school is in session.
2. If a compulsory-school-age child has not been enrolled in a school within fifteen (15) calendar days after the first day
of the school year of the school which such child is eligible to attend or if a compulsory-school-age child has
accumulated five (5) absences during the school year, the principal or superintendent is required to report such
absences to the Mississippi Office of Compulsory School Attendance and Enforcement.
3. Parents of a compulsory-school-age child who has not been enrolled in school within thirty (30) calendar days after
the first day of the school year of the public school which such child is eligible to attend are subject to prosecution
under the Mississippi Compulsory School Attendance Law.
4. All absences must have proper documentation turned in to Biloxi High Pupil Accounting Office.
5. The pupil accounting office will send an automated message to the parent on the day of the absence. The student
may bring a note to pupil accounting on the day the student returns to school. Parents may also email the excuse
to pa.bhs@biloxischools.net. The email must be sent from a verified email address given by the parent either during
registration or physically coming to the school and showing proper ID. The parent’s note verifies and excuses the
student’s absence. Each semester, students are allowed three parent notes. One parent note covers one day
missed. Anything beyond that will be unexcused. The parent’s note must be provided within five (5) school days of
the absence and include: student’s name (printed), date of the absence, parent/guardian’s name, phone number,
and parents/guardian’s signature or verified e-mail. IF THE NOTE IS NOT RECEIVED WITHIN FIVE (5) SCHOOL
DAYS OF THE ABSENCE, THE ABSENCE WILL BE CONSIDERED UNEXCUSED.
6. A student shall receive a grade of 50 in any class in which the student’s absences exceed the amount allowed by
law. Administrative review of absences is provided for students with chronic or unexpected, legitimate excused
reasons for absences. It shall be the parent's/guardian's responsibility to provide documentation. A student’s
absences can be monitored through the District’s SIS.
7. When claiming the death of a family member as an excused absence, the family member must be a close family
member. Close family would be father, mother, sister, brother, legal guardian, legal foster parent, grandfather,
grandmother, stepfather, stepmother, sibling of mother, sibling of father.
8. All documentation must be turned in within 5 school days of absence to be excused. The following reasons
for absences are permitted by law: medical appointments, documented legal reason, death or serious illness in the
immediate family, observance of religious event, injury or physical illness, and authorized school activity. Acceptable
documentation by a doctor, school nurse, dentist, court official, or clergy will be required and must be written on that
individual's stationery. An obituary documenting the death of a close family member is acceptable. (See #7 above.)
State statutes identify “excused absences” as “lawful absences” and “unexcused absences” as “unlawful
absences.”
9. When students are sent home by the school nurse, the absence is considered excused for that day.
10. After the third unexcused absence per class period in a semester, a message will be sent to parents/guardians to
inform them of the student’s absences.
11. School districts are required by law to report excessive absences to the State Attendance Officer. On the fifth (5th)
unexcused absence per class period, parents will be informed. Out-of-school suspensions will be reported to the
school attendance officer.
12. Twelve (12) unexcused absences in a school year can result in charges being filed against a parent/guardian for
educational neglect and/or truancy charges against the student. Additionally, students exceeding twelve (12) or
more unexcused absences in a school year may receive a 50/F in applicable classes.
13. A student shall not be allowed more than six (6) unexcused absences per class period during a semester.
14. A student will receive a zero (0) on classroom work, other graded work, or tests not made up. Make-up work must
begin at a time arranged by the teacher.

15. Students that display a pattern of excessive absences and tardiness may be required to provide 2 new proofs of
residency to verify their current residence.
16. Students under the age of seventeen (17) and students who turn seventeen on or after September 1 are required to
attend school on a regular basis under the Mississippi Compulsory Attendance Law.
17. Biloxi Public School District does not recognize or condone “skip days.” Parents of students who are absent during
a skip day may be contacted, and skip-day-related absences will be in violation of School Board policy on attendance.
18. In order to be counted present, a student must be in attendance 63% of his or her instructional day. In order to
participate in any extracurricular function, students must attend school a minimum of four (4) periods on the day of
the activity.
19. Student absences resulting from officially approved school business will not be counted; however, accreditation
standards must be adhered to in regard to student activities.
20. A parent/guardian who fails to attend a conference on absences or provide proof of lawful absences shall be reported
to the Mississippi Office of Compulsory School Attendance and Enforcement.
21. Two (2) college days will be granted for visits to colleges in a student's junior and senior year. A letter from the
college registrar/student admissions will be required to verify the visit. A copy of the invitation to attend will not be
accepted as verification of attendance.
22. An absence is excused when it results from the attendance of a compulsory-school-age child participating in official
organized events approved by the superintendent or his designee. The official organized event must be provided in
writing to the superintendent or his designee prior to the event for approval. Contact school principal with
questions.
23. An “unlawful absence” is an absence for an entire school day or during part of a school day by a compulsory- school-
age child, which absence is not due to a valid excuse for temporary nonattendance. For purposes of reporting
absenteeism, if a compulsory-school-age child has an absence that is more than thirty-seven percent (37%) of his/her
instructional day, as fixed by the School Board for the school at which the compulsory-school-age child is enrolled,
the child must be considered absent the entire school day. Days missed from school due to disciplinary suspension
shall not be considered an “excused” absence under this section.

TARDIES

The practice of being prompt is considered by Biloxi Public Schools to be an acquired habit which enhances students' ability
to succeed in adult life. Students who are not in the classroom and involved in the instructional process cannot achieve at
the same level as the student who is present and involved. In addition, students who are tardy disrupt the instructional
process for all other students in the class. Tardiness, both to school in the morning and to classes, will be considered as
harmful to the instructional process. Each incident (as determined under the cumulative record kept by the attendance office
for each term) will result in a negative consequence as listed below.

Tardy Policy (Per Nine-Week Term)

Excessive absences, tardies, and early check-outs will be reported to the attendance officer for referral to Family Court.

First Tardy - Warning
Second Tardy - Warning
Third Tardy - Time Management Class
Fourth Tardy - Student Conference/Parent Contact (if student attended Time
Management)

- Detention (if student did not attend Time Management)

Fifth Tardy - ISR and/or Loss of driving privilege
All succeeding tardies - ISR and/or possible placement on the discipline ladder

EXEMPTIONS – Grades 9 –12

Exemption is a privilege, not a right. Only students who meet the following requirements may be exempt from semester
tests:
□ The student has no more than four (4) tardies in a term.
□ Exemptions based on Semester I and II data.

Semester 1 Semester 2
Grades based on Semester 1 average Grades based on Semester 2 average
Discipline based on Term 1 and Term 2 Discipline based on Term 3 and Term 4
Attendance based on Term 1 and Term 2 Attendance based on Term 3 and Term 4
Students in grades 7th-12th who meet the following requirements will be exempt from semester exams:
Secondary Classes (7th-12th grades)
o A student with an A average and no more than 5 absences in a class may be exempt from the semester exam for
that class.
o A student with a B average and no more than 4 absences in a class may be exempt from the semester exam for
that class.
o A student with a C average and no more than 3 absences in a class may be exempt from the semester
exam for that class.
o A student with a D average and 0 absences in class may be exempt from the semester exam for that class.
1. Students will be counted absent but will receive an excused absence from classes in which they are exempt.
2. Students who are exempt under this policy will receive grades in progress on report card.
3. Final examinations shall not be given early. A student who withdraws from school prior to taking his/her final
examinations for term or semester shall be given grades in progress.
4. Students are not eligible for exemptions if they have been placed on Steps 4, 5, 6, or 7 of the Discipline Ladder.
5. To be exempt, a student shall not have any outstanding deficiencies, such as textbook or library fines, or fines from
any teacher.
6. Any student not exempt will be required to take the fourth term exam in the course.
7. Any student who cannot provide written documentation regarding his/her absence from a regularly scheduled nine-
week term examination will receive a zero (0) for that exam.
8. Students may be exempt by period.

DISCIPLINE - GENERAL INFORMATION
The basic objectives of discipline within the school may be described as four-fold:
1. To establish conditions under which no student will be permitted to prevent any teacher from teaching or any student
from learning.
2. To establish and maintain study conditions that are conducive to learning.
3. To develop, on the part of each student, the habits and skills that make him/her self-directive and to help him/her
realize that he/she is responsible for his/her own behavior.
4. To guide students in learning how to make better behavioral choices based on decision-making skills that enable
them to become self-disciplined.
Conferences, reprimands, after-school detention, in-school reassignment, out- of-school suspension or expulsion may follow
student failure to conform to accepted standards of behavior in the school. Disciplinary action may also include referral to
social services officials or other appropriate disciplinary measures including a requirement that the parent or legal guardian
attend classes with the child or attend parenting sessions provided by the school district to help parents or guardians develop
the skills necessary to facilitate the child's continuing enrollment in the regular school program and successful participation
in classroom activities.
PRIVACY OF STUDENT INFORMATION Discipline as well as any other private information of a student will NOT be
discussed with anyone other than that child’s legal parent/guardian.

DETENTION is a supervised consequence for handling student misbehavior. When a teacher requires a student to report
before or after school for disciplinary reasons, that student must do so unless arrangements are made with the teacher.
Students will be given a minimum of one day's written notice prior to detention. The written notice will serve as parent
notification.
IN-SCHOOL REASSIGNMENT (ISR) is a supervised consequence for handling student misbehavior. When a student is
assigned to ISR, the student will report to a specified classroom for a prescribed number of days. It is a forfeiture of
participation in regularly scheduled school activities for the time designated. During the time of reassignment, graded work
will be assigned, and all assignments must be completed during this time. Additional time in ISR may be given for failure to
complete assignments in the ISR program. A student who disrupts the ISR program will be referred to the appropriate
building administrator, and the student will advance to the next step of the discipline ladder. When a medical condition is
present, it is the parent’s responsibility to transport needed medications to ISR and notify ISR of any medical needs.
OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS) is a forfeiture of participation in regularly scheduled school activities for the time
designated during suspension. Graded work missed during the time of suspension may be made up at a time designated
by school officials. When required, parents must have a conference with the designated school administrator before the child
will be allowed to return to classes. Telephone calls will not be acceptable. Students will complete the assigned
suspension out- of-school in its entirety prior to being permitted to return to class. Upon suspension, student will be provided
Due Process Policy JCAA.
EXPULSION is the total exclusion of the student from participation in or attendance at any school-related activity. Appeals
may be made to the Board of Education. A student who has been expelled from the Biloxi Public Schools must apply in
writing to the Board of Education for possible readmission.
Repeated patterns of misbehavior may require counseling and parental involvement and assistance to the extent that the
parent may be requested to come to school and attend classes with the student in order to identify and correct such
behavioral patterns.
Under the Mississippi School Safety Act of 2001, a student who is deemed habitually disruptive as defined by law shall be
subject to automatic expulsion. (See specific references in district policy manual.)

EXPELLED STUDENTS - STUDENTS NOT ATTENDING SCHOOLS - EXCLUSION FROM SCHOOL PROPERTY

Students who have been expelled from this or other school districts or former students who are not attending school(s) in
this or other school districts shall not be on any campus of the Biloxi Public School District or enter any school property
except on school business which is specifically authorized by the building administrator, with the individual required to report
to the school office for written permission. Such students are specifically prohibited from having any unauthorized contact
with members of the school staff or students attending the Biloxi schools, using abusive, obscene, or profane language,
and/or violating any local and state prohibition in regard to drug or alcohol possession or use, possession of weapons, or
other misbehavior. If these students or former students are found on the campus of any Biloxi school, police will be called
and charges will be filed.