Placer High School

Home of the Hillmen

Placer High School

Student Handbook

2026-27

24-Hour Attendance Line: (530) 745-5754
Para borrar la asistencia en español: (530) 745-5807
Web page: http://placer.puhsd.k12.ca.us placer
This handbook is also available on our webpage

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Student Handbook

2026-2027

Table of Contents

• Fight Song & Alma Mater
• Vision and Character Pillars
• Academics
• Activities
• Athletics
• Attendance
• Conduct/Discipline
• Aeries Portal
• Parking
• ID and ASB Cards
• Student Rights & Information

Office Hours:
Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

PHS Main Line: 530.885.4581 (Main)
Fax#: 530.823.5770 fax

FIGHT SONG

We're gonna fight, fight for Green and Gold
And raise our voices to the sky!
We're gonna fight, fight for Green and Gold
And raise our banners ever high!
We know that our team will win this game
And it will ring out on the air:
The sons of Placer FIGHT!
Placer FIGHT!
Placer fight, fight, FIGHT!

PLACER ALMA MATER

Hail Placer High School,
loyal sons and bold.
Courageous and dauntless,
hail to green and gold.
Hail Alma Mater,
keep your standards high.
We salute you always singing,
Hail! Hail! Hail!

Placer's performing arts hold a strong role in the Auburn community. The oldest and most rooted in Auburn tradition is the "band program," currently directed by Dave Lawrence. The band program has a long-standing tradition of leading the Placer student body in the Fight Song. The Placer Fight Song is sung as a celebration of excellence and to honor Hillmen of the past, present, and future. We sing the Fight Song at many events, including athletic competitions, school rallies, commencement, and other school functions.

Vision & Character Pillars

Placer High School was founded in 1897, beginning as Auburn High School and housed Sierra Normal College. For over 127 years, our school has served and continues to serve students and remains central to the community. Over the decades, Placer High School has evolved, expanding its facilities and curriculum to meet the changing needs of its students.

Placer High School's vision is to preserve its core values and promote student achievement by meeting the needs of all learners, to prepare them to be successful in college, their careers, and in life after high school. Placer High School's three goals emphasize its core mission to provide high-quality educational access for all learners:

• All students are ready for high school, college, career, and life
• Increase student achievement through quality instruction and accurate grading
• Provide a safe, healthy, and engaging learning environment for all

Placer's five character pillars define who we are, and who we are working to become:

• COMMUNITY
• PERSEVERANCE
• RESPONSIBILITY
• ACHIEVEMENT

Some of the ways we embody these pillars:

• Saying "please" and "thank you"
• Opening doors for each other
• Arriving on time to class, ready to learn
• Representing Placer positively in the community
• Using appropriate language
• Taking responsibility for our academic success and asking for help
• Picking up after ourselves (and picking up after others when needed)
• Displaying extreme sportsmanship
• Showing up at rallies, clubs, events, and games to celebrate one another
• Having fun every day!

Academics

When a student graduates from Placer, it is expected that they will have the ability to think critically, be a lifelong learner, an effective communicator, a healthy individual, and a responsible citizen. These are some of the core values.

Credit/Grad Requirements: All subjects have the same unit value toward graduation. Five or ten units of credit are granted for courses taken and passed. Students will be awarded a diploma from the school where they complete their grad requirements. Students may not attend one high school and be taking additional courses at another high school (concurrent enrollment) unless previously approved. Grad requirements are in compliance with legislative provisions.

Specific Graduation Requirements are outlined on the district website.

For the students of PUHSD, the goal is to ensure all students are College, Career, and Life Ready.

COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS (CCI)

Important Terms and Acronyms:

• A-G: the 16 courses a student needs to pass with a C or better to be eligible for CSU/UC admission after high school
• CTE: meaning Career Technical Education, this is any series of courses that promote skills and knowledge in a particular field or industry. CTE courses are grouped into pathways and require 2-3 courses to complete the pathway
• Dual Enrollment (Now termed College Credit Courses): a college course taken in high school during the high school day that will earn a student credit towards high school graduation and college units. More Info
• Academic Enrichment: approved community college courses taken in addition to comprehensive coursework offered onsite.
• SBAC/CAASPP and CAST: State testing that all students take their junior year in both English Language Arts, Math and Science
• Full Glossary of Terms

College Entrance Requirements

Community Colleges:

• High school graduate or 18 years of age, or possess a Certificate of Proficiency
• No course, test, or grade point average
• Assessments may be required by colleges

CSU/UC:

Students entering the CSU/UC system must have completed the following courses with a "C" or better grade:

• English, 4 years
• Mathematics, 3 years
• Social Science (including 1 year of U.S. History), 2 years
• Science (Life & Physical), 2 years
• Foreign Language, 2 years
• Visual and Performing Arts (Art, Drama/Theater, Music), 1 year
• Electives, 1 year (selected from English, advanced mathematics, social sciences, history, lab science, foreign language, visual and performing arts)

The CSU subject requirements in English, Mathematics, U.S. History, Science, and Foreign Language are the same as those required by the University of California. High school courses in these fields, as listed on "Courses to Meet Requirements for Admission to the University of California," will also meet CSU requirements. Students are no longer required to take aptitude tests—either the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT 1) or the American College Test (ACT). Applying to a UC is a competitive process. We recommend consulting a counselor to discuss your specific requirements.

Scholarships: For information regarding scholarships, please visit the counseling office or refer to the scholarship link on Placer's website.

Additional methods of exceeding the minimum university entrance requirements:

The courses listed above will make a student "university eligible" with a grade of "C" or better. However, taking the minimum requirements with a C average will not guarantee admission or make a student particularly "competitive" for the CSU, UC, and private school systems. To become more competitive, students should maintain very high grades and take additional courses in any available area. For example, taking additional foreign language, math, or English courses would add points to a student's college application. Placer High School also offers honors courses in English, Math, and Science. The Advanced Placement courses being offered are English, European History, US History, Calculus, and Statistics. Advanced Enrichment classes are available to Placer students through Sierra College. When Placer students take courses from Sierra College, they not only earn additional points on their college applications, but they also earn college credit, which can be transferred to their college of choice upon admission. Many of our students leave high school with 3-15 college units. Families find this a great way to save time and money.

Sierra College-Academic Enrichment Program:

Students may enroll in Sierra College by obtaining an application and an Advanced Enrichment Form from the counseling office. The enrichment form should be completed, turned into the counseling office secretary for the required signatures, and picked up the next day. The student then mails the application and enrichment form to Sierra College and makes arrangements to take Sierra's assessment tests. Visit the Sierra website at www.sierra.cc.ca.us and select the "Apply" button for more information.

Chromebooks and Technology

All students in our comprehensive high schools are included in 1:Web* (One-to-Web) and provided with a Chromebook that they will use for their entire time in PUHSD. Here is a link for more information regarding the technology and Chromebooks, including information about filtering and monitoring Internet usage. Please be aware that all PUHSD Chromebooks are monitored by PUHSD, and any use of Chromebooks or technology that violates the tech policy may result in disciplinary action.

Grading and Reporting

Grading Policy:
Students are issued a letter grade for coursework. Students will receive these grades on their progress reports and on end-of-term grade reports, which are visible on the Aeries Portal. Individual teacher expectations and grading policies can be found on each teacher's syllabi.

Grade Reporting:
Grade reporting or progress reports are issued eight times a year through our student information system, Aeries. The progress report cards, at approximately 4 1/2, 9, and 13 1/2 weeks, are intended to provide an indication to you and your parents of your progress in each subject. ONLY end of term grades are recorded on your transcript and are used to determine CSF eligibility and grade point average. Nine-week grades and end-of-term grades are both used to determine CIF eligibility. Progress reports inform students whether they are completing the work satisfactorily, not yet meeting the course's standards, or failing. Progress reports are also used to acknowledge exceptional progress by a student or to encourage one who has improved markedly since the last report. Please contact the school registrar if you experience any difficulties accessing Aeries.

Academic Code of Conduct

Integrity and Honesty:
Placer High School and PUHSD value academic integrity and adhere to a firm commitment to student effort, responsibility, and honesty. Students are expected to demonstrate conduct that exhibits honesty. Acts of cheating (including giving or receiving information during a test), plagiarism, altering official school documents, or other acts as defined by department or instructor course syllabi will not be tolerated. Students may jeopardize credit on an assignment, or class grade, or be transferred out of a class, in addition to disciplinary action.

If a student is found to be in violation of the Academic Code of Conduct, the student may receive disciplinary action along with academic consequences. On the second reported offense, the Assistant Principals' Office will conduct a meeting with the student's parents to discuss appropriate consequences.

Teacher assignments and tests are considered the intellectual property of the teacher and school. Any student who distributes an assignment or test without the consent of the teacher will be subject to discipline and possible suspension.

Academic Recognition

CSF:
Membership in the California Scholarship Federation (CSF) requires that a student earn 10 points during a one-term period. Points for membership are earned on the following basis: 6 points for an A and 2 points for a B in 10 credit academic subjects. Students apply for membership beginning the 2nd term of their sophomore year and must continue to apply each term for membership.

Evening of Excellence:
Placer's Evening of Excellence is held in May to recognize students in grade nine through twelve for their achievements in the areas of academics, athletics, participation, and the school's Character Pillars.

Senior Scholarship Night:
The Senior Scholarship Night (Money Night!) is held in May to recognize and announce academic scholarship recipients and award winners.

Valedictorian Selection:

1. The student must enroll in Placer High School by the beginning of grade 12.
2. The student must achieve all A's in all classes taken during the entire four years of high school.
3. The student must complete a minimum of 60 credits from AP and Honors Courses with a maximum of 30 credits from Honors classes or DE courses from the IGETC transfer list.
4. The student must meet the University of California A-G requirements for admission.
5. The computation of the grade point average will be unweighted.
6. All students who meet the above criteria will be valedictorians.

State Seal of Biliteracy:
This is an award given to high school graduates who demonstrate proficiency in both English and another language. It is marked by a gold seal on the diploma in recognition of high school graduates that have attained a high level of proficiency in speaking, reading and writing one or more languages in addition to English.

Golden State Seal Merit Diploma:
This award provides recognition to high school graduates who have demonstrated a superior level of performance in English, math, science, U.S. History, plus two additional subject areas. Grades as well as qualifying scores on state assessments are used to measure attainment of this award.

State Seal of Civic Engagement:
This seal is awarded to students who demonstrate a commitment to civics education, participation, and understanding of democratic principles by completing set requirements and criteria. This award is marked by having a seal affixed to a student's diploma.

State and Federal Academic Assessments:
Testing is done each year and given in English Language Arts, science, and math. Scoring proficient or above in all subject areas and tests can determine eligibility for academic awards, unscheduled blocks, teacher's aides, and in select subject areas can positively impact a student's grade. The following tests are scheduled to be offered through a program called CAASPP (California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress) but more testing could be added throughout the year by the Department of Education.

The CAASPP assessment system encompasses the following required assessments:

• Smarter Balanced (SBAC) system of assessments for Mathematics and English-Language Arts given to 11th grade in the spring term. The SBAC lets you know if you are ready for college-level work in English and mathematics at the end of your junior year of high school. The early signal gives you the opportunity to improve your skills during your senior year or the summer before attending a CSU or community college.
• California Standards Tests (CST) for Science in grade 10
• California Modified Assessment (CMA) for Science in grade 10
• California Alternate Performance Assessment (CAPA) for Science in grade 10
• Mathematics and English-Language Arts in grades nine through grade 11

Graduation Recognition & Honors

At Placer High School, we work to recognize students' academic, athletic, and character achievement in many ways. The following cords and stoles are the only approved graduation adornments. Students who purchase or receive other adornments (stoles, medals, cords, leis, etc.) are encouraged to wear them for photos after the ceremony but will not be permitted to wear them during the ceremony.

• CSF (California Scholarship Federation) State Honors Society
• FFA (Future Farmers of America) National Honors Society
• Valedictorian (see criteria above)
• Senior ASB Officers
• AVID
• Kiwanis Key Club
• Auburn Rotary Interact Club

Activities

The Placer Union High School District recognizes the importance of extracurricular activities, co-curricular activities, and clubs as integral components of a student's educational development. As such, we believe that all students should have an opportunity to participate in school-sponsored activities and that such participation should encourage positive scholastic and social growth, along with providing valuable experiences. Because these activities and groups represent the school, community, and district, all participants will positively represent the school and community, reflecting the dedication and hard work required to participate and succeed.

Similar to athletics, participation in these activities is a privilege and is earned by positive behavior. The Activities Code of Conduct will adhere to the following:

• ASB Leadership and Activities
• ASB Clubs
• Band
• Cheer
• Choir
• Drama
• FFA

The advisors of individual clubs and activities have the discretion to include codes of conduct or behavioral expectations that align with school board policy. Full Activities Handbook

Clubs:

Clubs are an important part of what we do at Placer High School. For information about our current club options and how to start a new club, please visit the clubs page on our school website.

Athletics

The Placer Union High School District and Placer High School recognize that athletics are an integral part of the overall school setting and significantly contribute to a student's comprehensive educational development. As such, we believe that all students should have the opportunity to participate in some form of interscholastic athletics, within the limitations of each sport, and that such participation should encourage positive scholastic and social growth. Both the student-athlete and the team should be a credit to Placer High School and the Auburn community. The Placer Union High School District recognizes that an effective interscholastic athletic program is a result of reasonable cooperation among its four primary stakeholders: the student-athlete, the coaching staff, the site and district administration, and the parents of the student-athlete.

Athletes should realize that their participation in a sport is contingent upon three factors: their athletic prowess, academic progress, and their conduct representing Placer High School. School rules will be in effect at all athletic events.

Please visit our athletics home page to download the Athletic Handbook.

Attendance

The basics of attendance at Placer High School are explained in this Attendance Presentation.

Our Attendance Guidelines:
Placer High School firmly believes that attendance significantly supports student learning and behavior. It is recommended that all absences (excused and unexcused) not exceed 10 full or partial days for the school year. California law states that absences are excused only for health reasons, family emergencies, and justifiable reasons, as permitted by law. All other absences are unexcused.

Attendance eligibility for extracurricular activities, dances, and senior activities shall be based on the most recent 9-week grading period. Eligibility for participation in the graduation ceremony shall be based on attendance over the entire senior year. 90% attendance is calculated, including both excused and unexcused absences (excluding absences for school activities), as well as period/block absences and full school days. When a student misses more than 30 minutes of a given period, it may be counted as an absence for that period. Every five tardies may also count as a period absence. Four period absences may equal one full-day absence. Read the PUHSD Board Attendance Policy here.

Verified Absences:
On the day of a student's absence, verification of the absence can be made by telephone call to (530) 745-5754 or by email to our attendance desk at placerattendance@puhsd.k12.ca.us. Parents are encouraged to verify the absence as early as possible. The student may report directly to class upon returning to school, provided the parent has called to notify the attendance office. Absences left unverified for 3 days will be considered unexcused. See below for information on which verified absences are excused and which are unexcused.

Excused Absences:
Excused absences can include illness, non-illness-related reasons, medical or dental appointments, court appearances, bereavement, or other justifiable reasons. Our district's procedures allow a parent or guardian to verify up to 10 days of excused absences without requiring verification from a medical professional or an authorized school employee. Once a student reaches 10 days of excused absences, you will be required to verify your student's physician to clear additional absences. After 15 days of absence, each subsequent absence may be considered a cut.

Absence and Truancy Matrix

Confidential Medical Services:
Pupils enrolled in grades 7 through 12 may be excused from school by school authorities for the purpose of obtaining confidential medical services without the consent of the pupil's parent. (BP 5113, EC 46010.1)

Home and Hospital Teaching:
Students who will be unable to attend school due to an illness, accident, or an extended period (a minimum of three weeks) should contact the Assistant Principals' Office to arrange for a home hospital teacher.

Short-Term Independent Study:
Parents and students may request short-term independent study if their child will be out of school for up to 15 days. Independent study requires pre-approval by administration; requests must be made in advance and will not be approved for students who failed to complete a prior independent study.

Non-illness Excused:

1. Attending the funeral services of a member of the pupil's immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in California and not more than three days if the service is performed outside of California. (Ca Ed Code 48205)
2. For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an appearance in court, attendance at an employment conference, and for religious reasons. These absences must be pre-approved by the principal. The approved absences shall be for a period not longer than the actual time required for attendance. (CA Ed Code 48205)

Verifying Absence:
Students who do not have their absence cleared by a parent note, parent email, or phone call, and do not have a note upon return to school, will be notified. Students will have up to 3 days to clear the absence. If it is not cleared, the student will be issued a cut to be handled as outlined below.

Cuts:
A cut is defined as a student absent from school or a class for more than 30 minutes without parent verification or approval of the school (CA Ed Code 48260). Parents will be informed each day by telephone of students who cut. See below for the discipline procedures.

"Cut" is defined as:

• One full day of unverified absences
• Three blocks = one full day
• 30+ minutes out of class = one period cut
• 5 tardies = one period cut

Truancy:
In California, a student is truant if he/she is absent or tardy by more than 30 minutes without a valid excuse on three occasions within a school year.

Cut #1

• Assistant Principal and/or SIS-B meets with the student
• Warning issued to the student

Cut #2

• Assistant Principal and/or SIS-B conference with the student

Cut #3

• Contact parent/guardian
• Work Option/Detention assigned
• Student Attendance Review Board (SARB) #1 Letter sent to parents
• Assistant Principal conference with the student
• Saturday School and/or Work Option/Detention assigned

Cut #4/Truant

• SARB #2 Letter sent to parents
• Parent conference with Assistant Principal and Counselor/MHS arranged to discuss intervention options
• Student is put on a Letter of Agreement
• Loss of privileges (extracurricular activities and/or athletics)

Cut #5/Habitual Truant

• SARB #3 Letter sent to parents
• Student may receive additional discipline/intervention

Cut #6

• Student will be referred to a Student Attendance Meeting (SAM) hearing with the PUHSD Director of Child Welfare and Attendance

Additional Cuts

• Student will be cited and referred to SARB through the Placer County Office of Education

Truancy will be dealt with seriously, depending on the number of incidents that occur. Truancy is accumulated on a yearly basis, UNLESS your student has reached habitual truancy, in which case, your presence will be required at the monthly attendance review meetings until such a time as they are deemed adequate.

Forging a Note/False Phone Verification:
Forging a note or causing a note to be forged to verify an absence will result in disciplinary action. False verification by telephone will be handled the same as forgery.

Eighteen-Year-Olds:
Students wishing to sign their own notes for absences must pick up the Eighteen-Year-Old Sign-Out Form from the attendance secretary. Students must meet specific criteria in academics (including state standardized testing), attendance, and discipline in order to obtain administrative approval. Failure to follow the requirements will result in the loss of privileges.

Sign Out:

When it is necessary for the student to leave after the school day has begun, permission to leave school is granted by a signed request from the parent, email to our attendance office, or a parent phone call. Parent notice is required 30 minutes prior to the student's departure from the campus. The student is expected to show the note to the instructor before leaving class. Before leaving campus, students must sign out in the front office. Failure to do so will result in a cut that cannot be verified by a parent or guardian.

Student Illness and Injuries:
All students are required to have a current Emergency Information Card completed by a parent and on file in the office. If you become ill during the school day, you should report to the office after obtaining a pass from class. Students who do not feel well enough to return to class within 30 minutes will need a parent or designee to pick them up.

Any time a student is injured, the following is to take place:

• Injury to be reported to the teacher
• Teacher is to call the front office
• Depending on the severity of the injury, an adult escort will come and retrieve the student, the student will be sent to the office with a student escort, or call 911. Basic first aid administered as needed
• Accident report is to be completed and turned into the front office by staff members
• Parent contact made

Tardiness:
Being prompt and punctual is a valuable life skill. It is essential to be on time for class and prepared to work when the bell rings. A student is considered tardy when they enter a classroom or after the tardy bell has rung. A student may be marked tardy even if they have a note excusing his/her lateness from a parent or teacher. It is expected that students will be to class on time and prepared to work. Tardies will be dealt with according to individual teachers' policies; however, 5 tardies equate to one cut per site attendance policy. Excessive tardiness and the disruptions they cause will NOT be accepted, and teachers will make referrals when necessary.

When a teacher sends a tardy referral to the office, the following steps will occur:

• Tardy referral #1: student will receive a warning or work option/lunch detention
• Tardy referral #2: work option or lunch detention assigned
• Tardy referral #3-5: work option, lunch detention, or Saturday School assigned, and/or loss of privileges
• Subsequent tardies: consequences to be determined

Conduct & Discipline

District Guidelines for Behavior

The purpose of student discipline is to maintain an educational environment conducive to learning and to protect the order, safety, and health of other pupils. The Governing Board affirms the right of every student to be protected from hate-motivated behavior. It is the intent of the Board to promote harmonious relationships that enable students to gain a true understanding of the civil rights and social responsibilities of people in our society. Behavior or statements that degrade an individual on any basis, such as race, ethnicity, culture, heritage, gender, sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation, physical/mental attributes, religious beliefs or practices, or socio-economic status, shall not be tolerated. Our students are well-behaved, responsible citizens. However, just as in society, some of our students may make some poor choices. We will work with students to problem-solve and make sound decisions. However, it is essential to note that, according to Education Code Section 48900 and/or District/School Policy, the following behaviors will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary action, including suspension, campus clean-up, transfer, or expulsion:

• Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another person
• Willfully used force or violence upon the persons of another, except in self-defense
• Possessed, sold, or otherwise furnished any firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous object (this includes "air-soft" guns) unless, in the case of any such object, the pupil had obtained written permission from a certificated school employee, which is concurred in by the principal or the designee of the principal. *This is an expellable offense that may result in a mandatory recommendation to expel from the Placer Union High School District for up to one year
• Unlawfully possessed, used, sold, or otherwise furnished, or been under the influence of any controlled substance, as defined in Section 11053 of the Health and Safety Code, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind. *This is an expellable offense that may result in a mandatory recommendation to expel from the Placer Union High School District for up to one year
• Any student who furnishes or attempts to furnish a controlled substance or intoxicant (including alcohol) to other students will be suspended and referred to a site-level review meeting and may be recommended for expulsion
• Committed or attempted to commit robbery or extortion
• Harassed, threatened, or intimidated a pupil who is a complaining witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for the purpose of either preventing that pupil from being a witness or retaliating against that pupil for being a witness, or both
• Committed an act of sexual harassment, meaning unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature-Grades 4-12.
• Caused, attempted to cause, threatened to cause, or participated in an act of hate violence punishable under Section 422.6, 422.7, or 422.75 of the Penal Code-Grades 4-12
• Intentionally engaged in harassment, threats, or intimidation, directed against a pupil, resulting in materially disrupting classwork, creating substantial disorder, and invading the rights of that pupil or group of pupils by creating an intimidating or hostile educational environment-Grades 4-12
• Terrorist threats against school officials or school property, or both

• Unlawfully offered or arranged or negotiated to sell any controlled substance, as defined in Section 11053 of the Health and Safety Code, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind, and then sold, delivered, or otherwise furnished to any person another liquid, substance, or material as a controlled substance, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant
• Caused or attempted to cause damage to school property or private property
• Stolen or attempted to steal school property or private property
• Possessed or used tobacco, or any products containing tobacco or nicotine products, including, but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, miniature cigars, clove cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets, and betel. (This section does not prohibit use or possession by a pupil of his or her own prescription products)
• Committed an obscene act or engaged in habitual profanity or vulgarity
• Had unlawful possession of, or unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any drug paraphernalia, as defined in Section 11014.5 of the Health and Safety Code
• Disrupted school activities or otherwise willfully defied the valid authority of supervisors, teachers, administrators, school officials, or other school personnel engaged in the performance of duties
• Knowingly received stolen school property or private property
• In accordance with the Education Code of the State of California, Section 16126, no student or other person in attendance at any public school shall "conspire to haze engage in hazing, or commit any act that injures, degrades or disgraces, or tends to injure, degrade or disgrace any fellow or person attending the institution." Initiation into any organization is illegal. Individuals guilty of hazing will be subject to severe penalties as established by the law
• In accordance with Placer Union High School District policy, harassment on the basis of sex is unlawful. Pupils will not engage in conduct constituting sexual harassment. Board Policy prohibits any act of sexual harassment, where such act is related to any school activity or school attendance. Sexual Harassment will not be condoned or tolerated. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against pupils found to have engaged in sexual harassment. Forms of sexual harassment include but are not limited to the following: a. Verbal harassment such as derogatory comments, jokes or slurs; b. Physical harassment such as unnecessary, unwelcome or offensive touching, or impeding or blocking movement. c. Visual harassment such as derogatory or offensive posters, cards, cartoons, graffiti, drawings, or gestures. d. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests, or demands for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Any pupil wishing to make a complaint of sexual harassment should immediately report it to the Principal or an Assistant Principal
• Displaying Gang-Related Clothing/Paraphernalia PUHSD policy adopted: Any student wearing or displaying articles of clothing or paraphernalia identified by local, county, state, or national law enforcement agencies, or judged by local school officials, as "gang related" may have that article of clothing or paraphernalia removed from his/her possession and kept by the school administration until it is claimed by the parents of the student. At that time, the article or clothing or paraphernalia will be returned to the parents with the following information and admonitions: a. The article of clothing/paraphernalia has been identified as "gang-related." The article of clothing/paraphernalia shall not be worn to school by the student because it may

• provoke an altercation, which could endanger not only their son/daughter but also other students as well
• Discrimination against another person based on race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or handicap is illegal and will not be tolerated

You may access specific PUHSD board policies online
Other resources can be found here.

Students in PUHSD have a right to attend a school that is safe, orderly, and secure. It is the intent of all staff that our school is free from physical and psychological harm. The goals of the policy related to student behavior are to maintain order and decorum in the school, to educate our youth, to observe accepted rules of conduct, and to develop self-discipline while simultaneously protecting the rights of others. A clear understanding of our standards and expectations will assist students in making responsible decisions.

The following expectations, standards, rules, policies, and consequences have been developed and designed with the safety and welfare of the students and staff at PUHSD in mind. Your cooperation is expected and appreciated. This handbook addresses the more common concerns and issues that might arise and should be considered a general guideline. Teachers will also present their own classroom-specific standards, expectations, and consequences. Unique circumstances will be evaluated by the administration as they occur. For more detailed information, please refer to the PUHSD Discipline Matrix.

The following are possible infractions and consequences that may occur:

Alcohol, Drugs, and Other Controlled Substances:
Students who unlawfully possess, use, sell, or are under the influence, or otherwise furnish alcohol or controlled substances, or possess, sell, or furnish any drug paraphernalia will be held accountable. Suspensions may range from 1 to 5 days and may be subject to expulsion, depending on the severity of the offense. Students may also be referred to support programs in lieu of suspension, per the administrator's discretion.

Any selling, exchanging, offering, or distributing of controlled substances will result in an automatic 5-day suspension and a recommendation for expulsion.

Appropriate Display of Affection:
The inappropriate display of affection during the school day and all school activities (including dances) will not be tolerated.

Assemblies/Rallies:
Assemblies and rallies are an important aspect of the school, and students are expected to behave appropriately. Students should be attentive, responsive, and show common courtesy when someone is speaking or performing. Students may be dismissed from assemblies/rallies, assigned school discipline, and prevented from future assemblies/rallies.

Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation:
No person shall illegally discriminate against or engage in harassment/sexual harassment of a pupil because of the pupil's race, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, color, religion, mental or physical disability, national origin, ancestry, or ethnic group identification. The Placer Union High School District recognizes that harassment of any type is unlawful. If students feel they are the subject of harassment, they should immediately report it to the principal or assistant principal. (AR 5145.3 5145.7; Ed Code 234.1; 212.5 CCR 4916 5 CCR 4621)

The Placer Union High School District believes that all students have a right to a safe and healthy school environment. The District, schools, and community have an obligation to promote mutual respect, tolerance, and acceptance. The Placer Union High School District will not tolerate behavior related to school activity or attendance that infringes on the safety of any student. A student shall not intimidate or harass another student through words or actions. Such behavior includes direct physical contact or assault of any form, including hitting or shoving, verbal assaults such as teasing or name-calling, social isolation or manipulation, and cyberbullying. Students who engage in bullying related to school activity or attendance are in violation of this policy and are subject to corrective and/or disciplinary action up to and including expulsion (Ed Code 48900; BP 5131.2)

Classroom Behavior:
Instructional time is extremely important, and class disruptions and inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated. Students are expected to adhere to classroom rules and procedures and be respectful to teachers, classmates, and other school personnel. Students failing to follow classroom rules may receive class and/or school discipline.

Open Campus:
The campus at Placer High School is open during LUNCHTIME ONLY. During all other times, including the Nutrition Break, all students must come directly on campus when arriving at the school and must remain on campus (and out of the parking area) until the last class has ended. Students should be in their own scheduled classes only, and not attend any other classroom without a pass or permission. Students with an unscheduled block may either stay in the Learning Commons or leave campus and may return for their remaining classes. If, for any reason (illness, medical or dental appointment, etc.), a student must leave campus during the school day, the student must first check out through the attendance office.

Loss of Privilege List:
Students who do not maintain appropriate behavior or attendance may not be allowed to participate in some extracurricular activities such as athletic games, dances, and other after school activities. Depending on the severity, this could mean a student is unable to attend a single game/event, or could they may not be able to attend for a longer extent of time. Placement on this list is at the discretion of the administration.

Dance Guidelines:
School policies concerning student behavior will be enforced at dances. Students and parents will review and sign the dance contract. Enforcement of the dress and dance codes is at the discretion of attending staff. The dance dress code is comparable to the school dress code. Any student violating the dress code will be asked to change and/or leave the dance. The following guidelines are intended to promote a social environment in which all students and adults feel safe and comfortable.

• Prior to entry into the dance, students may be required to participate in an alcohol screening. Refusal to participate will prevent the student from entering the dance.
• Students shall remain inside until the dance is over or they decide to leave. Anyone leaving will not be permitted to return.
• Doors will close one hour after a school dance begins unless otherwise indicated by the administration.
• All students must have a picture I.D. card or student body card and show it to the person in charge at the door in order to be admitted to the dance.
• Students are to dance appropriately for a high school setting. Students who are dancing inappropriately will be removed from the dance, their parents will be contacted, they will receive school discipline, and they may not be allowed to attend the next dance. On a second offense, the student will be removed from the dance and will not be allowed to attend school dances for the remainder of the school year.
• Students found under the influence or in possession of illegal substances will be removed from the dance, and parents will be informed. Administration will make a decision about suspension and expulsion based on the circumstances. Law enforcement may be contacted, and citations given to the student.
• Guests will only be allowed at Homecoming, Sadie's, Jr. Prom, & Senior Ball. You must have an approved guest pass before you purchase your bid (admission ticket) to the dance. Any guest must be a current high school student and no older than 20 years of age.
• Dances are a privilege, and students may be denied the opportunity to go to dances based on behaviors, discipline, and attendance. Certain infractions and/or suspensions may prevent students from attending a dance for a whole calendar year.
• If a student is suspended for 48900a, 48900c, or 48900j, they will not be allowed to attend dances for one full calendar year.

Dress Code Policy:
Students are to dress appropriately for school. Shoes must be worn at all times. Wearing clothing that is overly revealing, has gang connotations, promotes drugs/alcohol, or poses a danger to students and staff is strictly forbidden. Students will be asked to change their clothes if they are wearing inappropriate items. Parents may be contacted and asked to bring a change of clothing. Repeat violators will be subject to school discipline.

Placer Union High School District expects that all students will dress in a way that is appropriate for the school day or for any school-sponsored event. Student dress choices should respect PUHSD's intent to

sustain a community that is inclusive of a diverse range of identities. The primary responsibility for a student's attire resides with the student and their parent(s) or guardian(s). We are responsible for seeing that student attire does not interfere with the health or safety of any student, that student attire does not contribute to a hostile or intimidating atmosphere for any student, and that dress code enforcement does not reinforce or increase marginalization or oppression of any group based on race, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, cultural observance, household income, or body type/size. Any restrictions on the way a student dresses are deemed necessary to support the overall educational goals of the school and are explained within our dress code:

Basic Principle: Certain body parts must be covered for all students at all times.
Clothes must be worn in a way such that genitals, buttocks, breasts, and nipples are fully covered with non-see-through fabric. All items listed in the "must wear" and "may wear" categories below must meet this basic principle.

Students "Must Wear"* while following the basic principle of Section 1 above:

• A Shirt/Dress (with fabric in the front, back, and on the sides under the arms), and
• Pants/Skirt or the equivalent (for example, sweatpants, leggings, shorts), and
• Shoes

*Courses that include attire as part of the curriculum (for example: athletics, public speaking, and job readiness) may include assignment-specific dress, but should not focus on covering bodies in a particular way or promoting culturally-specific attire. Activity-specific shoe requirements are also permitted (for example, athletic shoes for PE).

Students "May Wear" as long as these items do not violate the general policy above:

• Hats must allow the face to be visible to staff and not interfere with the line of sight of any student or staff member
• Religious headwear
• Hoodie sweatshirts (wearing the hood overhead is allowed, but the face and ears must be visible to school staff)
• Fitted pants, including opaque leggings, yoga pants, and "skinny jeans"
• Pajamas
• Ripped jeans, as long as the underwear and buttocks are not exposed
• Tank tops, including spaghetti straps; halter tops
• Athletic attire
• Visible waistbands on undergarments or visible straps on undergarments worn under other clothing (as long as this is done in a way that does not violate the general policy and basic principle above).

Students "May Not Wear":

• Violent language or images
• Images or language depicting drugs or alcohol (or any illegal item or activity)

• Hate speech, profanity, pornography
• Images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class or marginalized groups
• Any clothing that reveals visible undergarments (visible waistbands and visible straps are allowed)
• Swimsuits (except as required in class or athletic practice)
• Accessories that could be considered dangerous or could be used as a weapon
• Any item that obscures the face or ears (except as a religious or public health observance)
• The student may not wear any apparel that is considered gang related. Per PUHSD policy, gang related clothing is defined as "any... articles of clothing or paraphernalia identified by local, county, state, or national law enforcement agencies, or judged by local school officials, as 'gang related.'"

Electronic Device/Cell Phone Policy:
In accordance with AB 3216m all cell phones will be placed in a cell phone locker or caddie for the entirety of each instructional block. Chromebooks and other electronic devices are only to be used for academic purposes as determined by the teacher. Electronic devices such as earbuds/AirPods must be taken out at the teacher's request to ensure students are attentive to the presented lesson.

We encourage students to leave tech devices at home. Bringing tech devices including phones, earbuds, etc.. are at personal risk. PHS is not responsible for lost, stolen, or broken devices.

Upon entering the classroom, each student is required to place his/her cell phone into the classroom locker or holder for the entire class period, including when using the restroom, water filling, etc... (Placing an extra phone or simply a phone cover, or any other object instead of the phone, will result in a cell phone violation).

Students are allowed to use their cell phone and headphones in the hallway and common areas before/after school, during passing periods, nutrition, and lunch.

If a student is caught violating the rules above and/or engaging in activities that are obviously inappropriate for cell phone use in designated areas, the following consequences will occur:

• First Offense - Cell phone will be sent to the office and student may pick up their device at the end of the day-Warning
• Second Offense - Cell phone will be sent to the office and a parent must pick up the device from the AP office.
• Third Offense - Cell phone will be sent to the office and parent must pick up the device from the AP office-Detention/Work Option will be assigned.
• Fourth Offense - Additional consequences including the device not being allowed on campus for a period of time.
• Subsequent Offense(s): Will be determined by the administration and students may lose the privilege of bringing cell phones or technology devices, or be placed on the "No Go" list.

Student use of cell phones, or any other recording device, without the prior consent of the teacher and the principal of the school given to promote an educational purpose disrupts and impairs the teaching

process, and such use is prohibited, the student is subject to disciplinary action. Unauthorized recording in restrooms or locker rooms is not allowed and can be subject to school discipline and referral to law enforcement. The sharing of video recordings, audio recordings, or photos of students, teachers, or staff can cause significant disruption to the school. If a student shares video, audio, or photos via social media or texting, the student may receive disciplinary action.

Misuse of School Electronic Devices:
Students will be held accountable for any misuse or damage to school computers and equipment. Students risk academic consequences, disciplinary action, and/or financial restitution. Immediately report any irregularities to your instructor. The misuse of computers and other electronic devices, such as hacking, grade changing, and vandalism, may be both criminal and expellable offenses.

Food, Gifts, and Student Messages:
In order to reduce school and class disruption, non-emergency messages and items will not be sent to students during class and must go through the front office. For security reasons, food delivery services (Door Dash, Uber Eats, etc.) are not permitted.

Hall Passes:
Hall passes (color coded cones) are mandatory for all students, including TAs. Teachers will issue passes. If a student is out of class without a pass, they will be asked to return and obtain one before proceeding. Additionally, students who are out of class without a pass may receive school discipline. Only one student is allowed out of class at a time, unless authorization is given by a school official. Phones are not permitted during instructional time and should remain in the classroom phone locker. Students are not permitted to be out of class the first fifteen and last fifteen minutes of class.

Library (Learning Commons) Guidelines:
The Learning Commons is designed to be used as a means to facilitate academic learning. All students must sign in and are required to show a teacher-signed pass to work in the Learning Commons during instructional time. Students are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior while in the library. A printer is available to students in the library.

Patience & Respect for Others:
Respect is one of Placer's character pillars, and it is important to be aware of others as they go about their daily activities. Please be patient when navigating the campus, waiting in lines, and interacting with each other.

Physical/Verbal Altercations (Fighting):
Students who cause or attempt to cause physical injury to another person will be held accountable for their behavior. Suspensions may range from 1 to 5 days and may be subject to expulsion, depending on the severity of the offense. (Ca Ed Code 48900).

Fighting:
Fighting is defined by the PUHSD as a physical confrontation between two or more students, mutual combat, or contributing to or perpetuating a fight. This may include hitting back regardless of who threw the first punch. Consequences for fighting range from suspension to recommendation for the expulsion process.

Definitions Associated with Fighting:

• Breaking up or Preventing a Fight is characterized by seeking help from the nearest adult, encouraging the students to walk away, or surrounding a friend and moving them away from the argument.
• Defending Oneself is characterized by putting hands up to block or prevent a hit, putting hands out to keep the other student at a distance, repeating over and over the desire to NOT fight, calling for help, turning away, or walking away. Self-defense does not include physical retaliation. Administration will have the final say on determining self-defense.
• Threatening/Initiating Fights may be treated the same as fighting. The following behaviors communicate a willingness to fight: remaining engaged in an argument, stepping towards the other student, clenching fists, throwing down items being held, i.e. backpack, books, etc., removing outer garments, such as a jacket, and planning a fight (time and or place).
• Jumping In (aiding and abetting) is joining in on another student's fight or contributing to/perpetuating the fight. May include promoting a fight to occur, preventing someone from leaving a hostile situation, or preventing others from breaking up the fight. Students can be suspended for up to five days for this behavior.
• Running to or being present to watch a fight (aiding and abetting) or videotaping escalates the potential of a fight occurring and the seriousness of the fight. Students who are caught running, watching, videotaping, and/or sharing a fight video may be suspended for up to five (5) days. This includes uploading a fight on any social media/ electronic communication (including airdropping the video).

Restrooms:
Restrooms are to be used for their intended purposes only. Please notify the office or staff immediately if a restroom has been vandalized or requires attention. To accommodate all students' ability to use the restroom, the following will be strictly enforced:

• Students may not congregate in stalls: one person per stall at a time. Congregating in individual stalls may lead to a search of belongings and/or disciplinary actions
• No loitering in the restrooms: loitering in restrooms may lead to a search of belongings and/or disciplinary action. Backpacks may not be left in the restroom; unattended bags will be brought to the office
• Eating lunch in the restroom is not permitted

• May not exceed the maximum capacity of six students: capacity based on the number of stalls and sinks available for use
• Students may not vandalize bathrooms. Damage or misuse of school property may result in disciplinary consequences and financial restitution

Senior Conduct Policy:
Receiving a diploma and participating in a commencement ceremony are important milestones in one's life. While a student may be granted a diploma based on earned credits and fulfilling requirements in specific academic areas, the privilege to participate in senior activities or the commencement ceremony is contingent upon maintaining acceptable scholastic and citizenship standards. Adherence to the Senior Conduct Policy ensures that seniors will be included in activities planned to honor their achievements. Details of the senior activities and conduct policy will be distributed and reviewed with all seniors in a mandatory meeting in the spring.

Search Policy:
Federal and State law allow school officials to search students under certain circumstances. The school reserves the right to search students, their lockers, cars, and their possessions on campus and or at school events without prior notice. (Board Policy 5145.12)

Theft/Destruction of Property:
Students who steal, attempt to steal, knowingly receive stolen property, or damage school or private property will be held accountable for damages. Suspensions may range for 1-5 days and may be subject to expulsion depending on the severity of the offense. (CA Ed Code 48900)

Threats of Violence:
Any threats made to other students, the school, or staff are taken seriously and reported to local law enforcement. Law enforcement will conduct a threat assessment, which may result in the student being arrested. Students may be suspended and expelled for making threats.

Tobacco/Nicotine:
Please do not bring/use cigarettes or chewing tobacco on the way to and from school or while at school. Prohibited products include: any tobacco, nicotine, cigarettes, cigars, miniature cigars, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew, pouches, clove cigarettes, betel, and electronic/vapor devices.

Products marketed as caffeine, herbal, nicotine-free, or similar alternatives that resemble or are used in the same manner as tobacco, nicotine pouches, or vape devices are prohibited on campus and at school-sponsored activities. This includes, but is not limited to, caffeine pouches, herbal pouches, and nicotine-free vape devices.

Valuables:
Placer Union High School District and Placer High School are not responsible for lost or stolen property. Please keep valuable items with you or leave them at home. This includes cell phones, iPads, tablets, and

laptops. We will not be taking theft reports for stolen phones or electronic devices. If you bring these items to school, do so at your own risk.

Visitors:
All visitors must check in at the office before entering school grounds and gain prior approval. All visitors are required to wear badges while visiting on campus. Visitors must have a specified reason to be on campus and must be approved by the administration. Students from other schools are not allowed to visit or be on campus for any reason during the school day. (BP 1250, AR 1250). Visitors/Guest Speakers need to have prior approval from the administration at least two weeks prior to being on campus.

Weapons:
All weapons (knives, guns, explosives, etc), imitation weapons, or any object that could be used as a weapon are strictly prohibited. (48900b 48900c)

Parent Portal (AERIES)

The Aeries SIS (Student Information System) portal allows parents and students online access to student information, including grades and assignments, in the PUHSD student information system. More than one parent or guardian may access student data, provided each has their own email address. For information on accessing your account, please refer to the parent section on the Placer High School Website.

Portal accounts are created automatically. Check your email account that you supplied to the school when enrolling your student. If you did not receive an email, please contact your school directly. Once the school has verified your email address, a portal account will be set up for you.

Parents of pre-enrolled students, if you have previously attempted to log in to the portal and encountered an issue, please try again. If the password you had in the original email does not work, please enter your email address and click the forgot password button. A new password will be sent to you.

1. Launch your browser
2. In your browser's address bar, type in the link listed below and save it as one of your bookmarks:
   https://puhsd.aeries.net/student/LoginParent.aspx Aeries
3. Enter your email address
4. Hit the "Next" button
5. Enter your password
6. If you forgot your password, click on the "forgot password?" link. An email will be sent to you with a temporary password. If you do not see a message in your inbox, please check your spam.

Helpful Hints:
If you already have a parent portal account but need to add a student, log in and click the menu in the upper-right corner of your portal screen, use the drop-down and select "Add New Student To Your Account."

Have questions? Please email Linda Martin: lmartin@puhsd.k12.ca.us

We thank you for your interest, and we hope our service enhances communication and contributes to your student's achievements.

Parking

All students wishing to park their vehicle on campus must have a valid parking permit. Permits can be obtained through the website or the Assistant Principal's Administrative Assistant. The following guidelines have been established for your safety and the safety of others:

1. Students must have a valid parking permit to park on school grounds.
2. Speed limit in the parking lot is 5 mph. No cruising or loud music on school grounds.
3. Students are to park their cars immediately upon arrival. Once a vehicle is parked, students are to leave the parking lot. LOITERING IN THE PARKING LOT WILL NOT BE PERMITTED!
4. Our campus is closed during instructional time. Students may not leave the parking lot, except during lunch period. Driving off campus during instructional time without permission will result in suspension and loss of parking privileges on campus.
5. The parking lot is off limits, and cars may not be "visited" during the day with the exception of the lunch period. Students must get a pass from the APs office to go to their cars during instructional time.
6. Any driver found to be driving in a negligent or erratic manner on or about school property may be cited by the police department, and/or school driving and parking privileges may be suspended.
7. Students must park in designated parking areas and must display a valid Placer Parking Permit. Parking in non-designated areas, fire lanes, no parking, and handicap areas may result in the loss of PHS parking privileges, suspension, and/or a vehicle citation by APD.
8. The parking permit must be displayed on the driver's side, lower left corner of the front window. Please obtain a one-day temporary permit if, for some reason, your permit is not displayed or you drive any other vehicle.
9. Lost or stolen permits must be reported to the office.
10. Cars must be free of flags, symbols, stickers, and license plates that are inappropriate for a school campus.
11. All cars may be subject to search.
12. Students are obligated to help manage student parking, which would include parking in overflow (stadium parking) when there are no spaces available or the student is not displaying their parking permit.
13. The use of another person's permit without permission will be deemed theft. You may be suspended and cited for this violation.
14. Note: It is essential for students to adhere to all school rules and policies regarding student vehicles and parking. Any violation may result in work option, suspension from school, citation by the Auburn Police Department, or suspension of parking privileges for up to one school year.

Bicycles, Skateboards, & Scooters:
Bicycles are the private property of students, and Placer High School is not responsible for damaged or stolen bikes. Bike racks are provided, and students should keep their bikes locked at all times.

Skateboards/scooters are to be stored away during the school day in a classroom or secured on the student's backpack. Skateboarding and biking on campus grounds and sidewalks at any time is not allowed. Any confiscated skateboards/scooters will be held at the office for parents to pick up. Excessive violations will result in the student being prohibited from bringing skateboards/scooters to campus.

ID and ASB Cards

Students are expected to carry their student ID card at all times and present it upon request. Student IDs may be required for admission to sporting events, ASB-sponsored activities, and when leaving campus at lunch and prior to the end of the school day.

Pictures:
School pictures will be taken within the first month of school. Every student will be photographed for the school's permanent record and for their digital ID card. Students will also have the opportunity to order school picture packets at this time (flyers will be sent home). Digital ID cards are provided free to students and are required for admission to all school dances. Students must have a current ID card to be admitted to all dances.

ASB Cards:
The price of the ASB card is $75.00. ASB cards provide free admission to all home league athletic events, along with reduced cost for dances as well as other discounts. ASB cards may be purchased on the website under Placer High School Webstore. For more information regarding ASB cards and pricing, please visit the Activities tab on the Placer High website.

Student Rights & Information

Nondiscrimination/Uniform Complaint Procedure:
The PUHSD has a policy of nondiscrimination on the basis of a person's actual or perceived ethnicity, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, color, race, ancestry, national origin, physical or mental disability, age or sexual orientation or association with a person or a group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics, in any of its policies, practices or procedures programs or activities. PUHSD's nondiscrimination policies comply with the requirements of Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004, AB 1266, and other related state and federal laws. Pupils or parents or any other individual having questions or concerns regarding these nondiscrimination and harassment policies or who may wish to file a complaint should contact the office of Dr. Steve Caminiti, Deputy Superintendent, Placer Union High School District, 13000 New Airport Road, Auburn, CA 95603 (530-886-4400) (BP 5745.3; AR 5745.3; AR 6145.2)

Title IX:
No person, student, or staff member shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity. The PUHSD has a policy that addresses Title IX and non-discrimination, and it is committed to ensuring a safe and equitable learning and work environment.

Many think Title IX only addresses equal access to athletic opportunities, but Title IX is much more comprehensive as it relates to non-discrimination and equal access. As a societal issue, it has been given heightened media attention during the recent #MeToo and #TimesUp hashtag campaigns about hostile work and learning environments.

Sexual harassment is "unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that is severe, persistent and pervasive and has a negative impact on a student's ability to benefit from the educational environment"

• Flirtations or propositions
• Derogatory comments
• Sexual jokes or gestures
• Spreading sexual rumors
• Unwanted touching
• Comments on a person's body

Title IX Information and Process

Student Title IX Liaison
Dr. Steve Caminiti
13000 New Airport Rd

Auburn CA 95603
scaminiti@puhsd.k12.ca.us
530-886-4406

Staff/Adult Title IX Liaison
Elena Del Favero
13000 New Airport Rd
Auburn CA 95603
edelfavero@puhsd.k12.ca.us
530-886-4401

Access to Educational Programs:
It is the policy of the Placer Union High School District to provide to every person equal opportunity to receive an education as required by federal and/or state law. The District shall not illegally discriminate against a pupil because of the pupil's race, sex, color, creed, handicap, national origin or ancestry. The District is committed to the law of equal educational opportunity. No teacher shall give any instruction nor shall there by any activity, which reflects adversely upon persons because of their race, sex, color, creed, handicap, national origin or ancestry. No textbook or other instructional materials shall be used, which contains any matter reflecting adversely upon persons because of their race, sex, color, creed, disability, national origin, or ancestry. The Superintendent is designated as the Equal Educational Opportunity/Title IX management employee directly responsible for coordinating efforts to ensure compliance with all non-discrimination laws.

The Placer Union High School District offers career-technical education programs in agriculture, business, home economics, industrial and technology education, and health careers. There are no admission requirements for the beginning courses in each program. Prerequisites may be required for advanced courses. The lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to enrollment and participation in career-technical educational programs.

Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. sections 1221e, 1681-1686
Education Code sections 40, 41, 200-214, 220-232, 51004, 51501
BP6178 Revised by the PUHSD Board of Trustees: December 17, 2019

Contact Person:
Steve Caminiti, Ed. D., Deputy Superintendent
Placer Union High School District
13000 New Airport Road
Auburn, CA 95603
(530) 886-4402

Students with Disabilities and Section 504:

If parents/guardians suspect that their child has a physical or mental disability (e.g., learning disabilities, chronic health problems, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, etc.) which may substantially limit a major life activity, such as learning, they may request that their child be evaluated under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This ensures that all individuals, no matter their disability, should live free of discrimination. A qualified educational team will evaluate the child to determine if they qualify as a student with a disability. Qualified students will have an individualized 504 plan developed by an educational team that will include the school site 504 coordinator, the child's teacher(s), other support personnel as needed, the student, if appropriate, and the parent. This plan will be reviewed regularly and will address appropriate interventions and accommodations to assist the child's educational program. For transfer students with current 504 plans, an educational team will review the plan to determine whether to continue it until the next review or to schedule a meeting to recommend revisions to the plan. Parents/guardians should contact their child's teacher, the school site 504 coordinator, or the district 504 coordinator:

Dr. Carrie Warda
Title II Coordinator
13000 New Airport Rd
Auburn CA 95603
530-886-4443
cwarda@puhsd.k12.ca.us

Married/Pregnant/Parenting Students:
The governing board recognizes that responsibilities related to marriage, pregnancy, or parenting and related responsibilities may disrupt a student's education and increase the chance of a student dropping out of school. The board therefore desires to support married, pregnant, and parenting students to continue their education, attain strong academic and parenting skills, and promote the healthy development of their children.

The district shall not discriminate against, exclude, or deny any student from any educational program or activity, including any class or extracurricular activity, solely on the basis of the student's pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, or related recovery. In addition, the district shall not adopt any rule concerning a student's actual or potential parental, family, or marital status that treats students differently on the basis of sex. (Education Code 221.51, 230; 5 ccr 4950; 34 cfr 106.40)

The superintendent or their designee shall annually notify parents/guardians at the beginning of the school year of the rights and options available to pregnant and parenting students under the law. In addition, pregnant and parenting students shall be notified of the rights and options available to them under the law through annual school-year welcome packets and through independent study packets. (Education Code 222.5, 48980)

Education for Students Experiencing Homelessness:
The Governing Board believes that the identification of students experiencing homelessness is critical to improving the educational outcomes of such students and ensuring that students experiencing

homelessness have access to the same free and appropriate public education provided to other students within the district. The district shall provide students experiencing homelessness with access to education and other services necessary for such students, to meet the same challenging academic standards as other students. (BP 6173, AR 6173)

Homeless students or students experiencing homelessness means students who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence and includes: (Education Code 48859; 42 USC 11434a)

1. Students who are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; or are abandoned in hospitals
2. Students who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as regular sleeping accommodations for human beings
3. Students who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings

Resources:

• County resource line (211) for food, transportation, housing and more
• Complete PUHSD Application for Free/Reduced Price Meals
• Notify School Counselor for Additional Site Resources Available

Education for Foster Youth:
The Governing Board recognizes that foster youth may face significant barriers to achieving academic success due to their family circumstances, disruption to their educational program, and their emotional, social, and other health needs that may be addressed with the provision of a safe, positive learning environment that is free from discrimination and harassment and that promotes students' self-esteem and academic achievement. (BP 6173.1, AR 6173.1)

Foster youth, foster child, or student in foster care means any of the following: (Education Code 42238.01, 48853.5)

1. A child who is the subject of a petition filed pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code 300, whether or not the child has been removed from the child's home by the juvenile court pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code 319 or 361
2. A child who is the subject of a petition filed pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code 602, whether or not the child has been removed from the child's home
3. A child who is the subject of a petition filed pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code 602, has been removed from the child's home by the juvenile court pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code 727, and is in foster care as defined by Welfare and Institutions Code 727.4(d)
4. A non-minor who is under the transition jurisdiction of a juvenile court, as described in Welfare and Institutions Code 450, and satisfies the criteria specified in Education Code 42238.01

5. A child who has been removed from the youth's home pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code 309
6. A dependent child of the court of an Indian tribe, consortium of tribes, or tribal organization who is the subject of a petition filed in the tribal court pursuant to the court's jurisdiction in accordance with the tribe's law
7. A child who is the subject of a voluntary placement agreement, as defined in Welfare and Institutions Code 11400(p)

Complaints:
In the event of a concern, issue, question, or violation and/or alleged discrimination please see the following process: Concerns and Complaints