School Policy Guide
The School Policy Guide is a supplement to the District Policy Guide, and is customized by each school. It may include important phone numbers, transportation information, and after-school childcare options.
- Behavior
- Communication
- Key Policies and Guidelines
- Students and Student Achievement
- Extracurricular Activities
Behavior
Harassment
Harassment is repeated verbal, nonverbal or physical contact that is unwanted by the receiver. Staff and students have a responsibility to make La Follette harassment free. A detailed copy of the harassment program can be found in all offices and classrooms.
Reports can be made to a teacher, student services staff member or principal. Forms to file a report are available in neighborhood offices, student services, or on the school website. False reports will be classified as harassment and penalized significantly.
Trespassing
Unauthorized persons in the building or on school grounds will be charged with trespassing per the City Ordinance. Students who are on a partial or limited schedule are required to leave the school grounds at the designated time. If the student remains and loiters in school or on the school grounds, s/he may be charged with trespassing. Students who have out-of-school suspension are expected to remain at home and will be charged with trespassing if they are in school or on the school grounds in violation of their suspension. Should unauthorized persons enter or remain on school premises, the principal or his/her representative may request assistance from the appropriate police department to remove such unauthorized persons. Unauthorized persons in the building or on school grounds may be charged with trespassing under City Ordinance 2346.
Communication
Parent-Teacher Communications
Parents/guardians receive Report Cards four times during the school year via Infinite Campus unless paper copies are requested, approximately one week after the end of each term. Parent-Student-teacher conferences for the parents/guardians of all students are held twice a year. Students should attend conferences with their parents/guardians.
Progress reports are scheduled for distribution in October, December, February and May. The Madison Metropolitan School district recognizes the rights of both biological parents of a student to have equal access to information about their child’s school progress, unless the school has ruled otherwise. Please let the neighborhood secretary know if you need duplicate information.
It is vital that parents/legal guardians and teachers be in frequent and regular communication with each other so that the student understands that everyone is working together. If you have questions about your child’s progress or educational program, do not hesitate to call teachers, the counselor, or the neighborhood principal.
We welcome and encourage parents/guardians to visit La Follette. When you arrive at La Follette, be sure to secure a visitor’s pass from the Welcome Center when you arrive.
Key Policies and Guidelines
- Attendance/Tardiness
- College Entrance Examinations
- Course Selection/Changes and Drops
- Dropping a Course Without an F
- Credit for La Follette Students Studying Abroad
- Credit for Courses Taken Outside the School District
- Fees
- Emergency Situations
- Field Trips
- Financial Responsibility
- Food & Nutrition
- Full-Time Status
- Grades and Grading
- Graduation Requirements
- Identification Cards
- Illness and Medication
- Incompletes
- Infants and Small Children
- Level Changes within content
- Locker Assignments
- Loss of Stolen Electronic Devices
- Lost and Found
- Opt-out of Release of Information to the Military / Institutions of Higher Education
- Parking
- Physical Education and GPA Exclusion
- Retaking a Course
- Safety & Security
- Suspension from School
- Transcripts
- Transfers
- Internal Transfers
- Visitors to La Follette
- Withdrawing a Student from La Follette
- Work Permits
Attendance/Tardiness
There is a powerful link between attendance and academic success in school. To give students the best opportunity to reach their potential both academically and socially, they must attend regularly. When students are tardy or absent, they miss out on valuable learning and social experiences that cannot be replaced. Students are expected to attend school every day unless they are ill. Madison Metropolitan School District’s Board of Education has established a priority goal regarding student attendance. All students will attend school at or above 94% of the days in the school year (i.e., less than 11 missed days).
To make sure students succeed in school and to prevent students from missing learning, MMSD has developed a comprehensive approach to attendance improvement. The process can be initiated by the student, his/her parents/guardians, or the school. Students, and/or their parent(s)/guardian(s), are strongly encouraged to contact the student’s principal or a member of the school’s Student Services Team as soon as attendance becomes a problem, to discuss and work together to find solutions that address the reason for the absences. When a student has excessive absences, contact with the student and family may also be initiated by members of the school staff.
Students are required to attend all of their scheduled classes, class meetings, and study halls. Parents will receive an automatic voice recording when unexcused absences occur. Attendance and participation in classes are factored into grade calculation. Whether absences are excused or unexcused, attendance is an important component of academic achievement.
A. Excused Absences
Listed below are those absences that the school will approve as excused absences. Any other absence may not be approved as an excused absence by the PRINCIPAL. The PRINCIPAL is responsible for confirming and determining, in some cases, whether the reasons for absences are valid. To that end, the PRINCIPAL and/or student services staff may ask for documentation. Except as otherwise provided by law and/or Board policy, if a parent/legal guardian fails to cooperate with school’s request to provide specific information about an absence, and/or if the PRINCIPAL believes the reason for the absence is not valid, the absence may be recorded as unexcused or changed from excused to unexcused. If a request of a parent is denied, the parent should be advised by the PRINCIPAL of the probable penalty for the absence.
The following absences can be excused as per Board of Education Policy:
1. There are five recognized legal reasons for absence:
a. If a pupil is ill to the extent that he/she is not in proper physical or mental condition to attend school;
b. Observance of a religious holiday or participating in not more than 180 minutes of religious instruction per week;
c. Upon a parent’s or guardian’s prior written permission, provided a child may not be absent for more than ten (10) days in a school year under this criteria and a student who is excused under this provision shall complete any course work that is missed during the absence. See B below;
d. If a child is excused in writing by his/her parent/guardian and by the principal of the school that the child attends for the purpose of the student serving as an election official. A principal may not excuse a student under this provision unless the student has at least a 3.0 grade point average or its equivalent;
e. Good cause reasons as set forth below.
2. The following are good reasons for absences from school:
a. A serious illness or medical condition of a member of the immediate family (when the student is definitely needed at home);
b. Bereavement due to death in the immediate family;
c. A student’s dental, doctor, chiropractor, psychologist or other medical appointment which cannot be scheduled at any time other than school time;
d. Inclement weather.
B. Pre-approved Planned Absences
- Although extended absence is highly discouraged, this procedure allows the teacher and student time to arrange for completion of schoolwork in advance or during the absent period. – (Board Policy 4031).
- The student must first present a written parent request for a Pre- approved Planned Absences to their principal’s office FIVE DAYS before the absence. S/he then takes the Pre-approved Planned Absence Form to his/her teachers. The form must be returned to the office three days before the absence. Noncompliance may result in absences being unexcused.
- It is the student’s responsibility to make up all work.
C. Outside Permit/Release from School for Appointments
- An outside permit is issued upon written or verbal request by the parent for doctor or dentist appointments. We encourage the request to be presented to the neighborhood office the day the student has the appointment.
- The student will receive the original copy to show to his/her teachers. When the student returns to school, s/he will present the permit to their neighborhood office and receive the office copy to present to teachers whose classes were missed.
- Leaving the building for illness or appointments without an outside permit is considered an unexcused absence. Parents should call the neighborhood office or write a note to excuse their son or daughter. Even with this parental excuse, students must sign out of the building in their neighborhood office. Talk to a neighborhood principal or nurse before you leave the building if you do not have written permission from parents. An outside permit will be issued to allow the student to leave and be excused. In the event that a student does not sign out before leaving the building, the absence can only be excused by the neighborhood principal upon presentation of a legitimate excuse from the parent of the student involved. The principal will excuse a student who does not sign out in the office only once in the student’s high school career.
D. Make-Up Policy for Absences
- For all absences (including suspensions) students must be allowed to make up work. A student may not be denied the opportunity to make up participation points, assignments, tests, etc. because of an absence. An alternative assignment for equal points or assessment may be provided by the teacher.
E. Reporting of Absence
- Each day a student is absent, the parent/guardian should call the neighborhood office by 10:00 a.m. on the date of the absence.
- Commencing at 5:00 p.m., an automatic telephone system will make calls to the home of students who were absent from, but not excused from, any assignment that day. (An assignment is defined as a class, study hall, or homeroom.) Phone calls to homes will be repeated several times.
F. Habitual Truancy
The school will initiate prevention efforts if a student is at risk for becoming habitually truant. The purpose will be to identify the causes of school absences and the student will meet with a school staff member for assistance in identifying solutions.
Wisconsin Statute 118.16 defines a habitual truant as “a pupil who is absent without an acceptable excuse under sub. (4) and s. 118.15 for part or all of 5 or more days on which school is held during a school semester.”
Students who are habitually truant and their parent/ guardian will be invited to attend a Habitual Truancy Conference (HTC). The purpose of the HTC is to identify the reasons for the absences, develop an appropriate Attendance Improvement Plan with specific steps to help with missed learning and connecting back into school, and identify supports within the school and community that can assist the student and family.
It is important to understand that failure to improve attendance is a violation of Wisconsin law and a student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) may be required to appear in court. The judge has a wide array of penalties that he/she may impose. The law permits the judge to impose sanctions, and require that the parent/guardian cause the child to attend school. The court may also require that a parent/guardian attend school with their student. The consequences for the student may be that his/her work permit be revoked, driving privileges be suspended, and/or he/she be placed under a curfew. Also the court could order that the student receive counseling and perform community-service work. Whether absences are excused or unexcused, attendance is an important component of academic achievement.
Tardiness
Attendance is important to learning. When you attend class on time, you and your classmates are able to learn the most and grow the most together with your teacher. Although content may be learned outside of class, the learning community only exists in class.
In order to learn, we expect all students will be inside of the classroom when the starting bell rings, and stay in class until the teacher dismisses the class.
Students who are tardy due to a medical or dental appointment should bring a note with them when they arrive. If the student has an excuse for tardiness during the day, the student should obtain a pass from the faculty member or neighborhood principal that can best vouch for that excuse.
College Entrance Examinations
Students who plan to enter two-year or four-year colleges and universities after graduating from La Follette need to take the Scholastic Achievement Test 1 (SAT 1), or the American College Test (ACT) during the spring of their junior year. Some institutions require three SAT 2 Subject Tests, specific examinations in mathematics, sciences, world languages, and social studies. Students who plan to apply to colleges, which require SAT 2, Subject Tests for admission may take a given test after the course is completed; they do not need to wait until the spring of their junior year.
Course Selection/Changes and Drops
The vision of the MMSD is that every school will be a thriving school that prepares every student to graduate from high school college, career and community ready. We work with students and families to select and complete courses that prepare students for college, career, and community success. Once courses are selected and in progress, schedule changes are severely restricted, because changes to the schedule impact learning opportunities for all students.
Students selected their courses in January and February for the 2019-20 school year.
Dropping a Course Without an F
Credit for La Follette Students Studying Abroad
It is the policy at La Follette to grant 6 credits to La Follette students who spend one year abroad on a foreign exchange program. It is the responsibility of the returning student to provide La Follette with an official transcript in English of grades and attendance from the foreign school. Credit will also be granted for one semester abroad (3 credits), the equivalent of a semester at La Follette. The grades received for the exchange student will be posted on the student’s transcript as pass or fail instead of letter grades, because the grading systems of the foreign schools do not always translate to the La Follette grading system. When the student applies to college, a La Follette transcript will be sent. The student may also forward a copy of the foreign transcript.
Credit for Courses Taken Outside the School District
In some cases high school credit may be granted for pre-approved courses taken outside the Madison Metropolitan School District. In all cases the student must receive prior approval from both the neighborhood principal and the department chair of the La Follette department to which the non-MMSD course is related. Students who do not receive pre-approval may request to have courses shown on their transcript, but no credit will be granted.
Fees
To encourage all students to participate in all school activities regardless of the student’s financial situation, it is the policy of the Board of Education to waive the payment of part or all of student fees if the student or the student’s parent/guardian demonstrates an inability to pay such fees, and to notify students and parent/ guardian of this fee waiver policy.
Student fees, which may be waived, include fees for school day field trips and fees that are on the yearly student fee schedule, except for library and textbook fines.
The fee waiver form can be obtained during online enrollment and may be completed by the parent/guardian each school year in which a waiver or fee reduction is requested. If a fee waiver or reduction is granted, it shall be for the entire school year unless the student or the student’s parent/guardian subsequently demonstrates the ability to pay such fees.
Emergency Situations
Disaster (e.g. Tornado, etc.) or Disaster Drills
Instructions will be given over the public address system. Students are expected to remain quiet in order to hear instructions. Specific instructions will be posted in all homerooms and covered by all teachers for those occasions when advance notice is provided. No student is to remain outdoors, on second floor areas, gym, auditorium, cafeteria, commons, or music wings.
Bomb Threats and False Fire Alarms
Bomb threats or false fire alarms by students are strictly prohibited. Disciplinary action may include recommendation for expulsion to the Board of Education. A reward is offered to information leading to the apprehension of individuals who make bomb threats or false fire alarms.
Fire Drills
Fire drills will be held each month throughout the year. Their purpose is to give you practice in the most efficient procedure for vacating the building in case of a real fire. Whenever a fire bell rings, it could mean there is an actual fire. For your own safety and the safety of others, follow these procedures:
- End work immediately.
- Move quickly and quietly in an orderly manner out of your classroom. The last person out should close the classroom door.
- Walk in a single file along the right hand side of the hallways to nearest exit from the building (100 feet from building). Directions for fire drills are posted in every room near the door, indicating the use of certain stairways and corridors for each room.
- Remain outside of the building until you are told to return, then walk quietly into the building.
Lock Down
La Follette will conduct a lockdown drill each semester in order to prepare staff and students for an emergency.
Safety Plans
Every classroom has an Emergency Procedures pamphlet, which provides directions on responding to a variety of emergencies that may be encountered.
Weather Emergency
When weather conditions appear dangerous, district staff members review the situation. They talk with the City Streets Department, Police department, bus companies and the National Weather Service to see if buses will be able to travel safely to and from school. Building Services staff advise whether all buildings are adequately heated and accessible for students. The decision to close schools is made by 6:30 a.m., and radio and television stations are given that information. We are moving the school closing guidelines so that we will consider closing schools at negative 25 degrees.
If you have a question about whether schools will be closed, please listen to local media instead of calling the school office.
If a tornado or other storm threatens our area during the school day, students will be kept at school in the safest area of the building until the “all clear” message is sounded by Dane County emergency government officials.
Field Trips
Teachers frequently plan field trips to provide students with educational experiences, which are extensions of the classroom. These trips are essential to the educational program, and all students are expected to participate. Parents’/guardians’ permission is required in order for students to participate in field trips. Parents/guardians will receive written information in advance about field trips and should take care to sign all permission forms and send money to school if requested. In such cases parents/legal guardians should contact their child’s teacher or their office. When riding a school bus as part of a field trip, students are expected to obey all rules governing school bus transportation. Staff will be trained to assist with interventions.
Financial Responsibility
Food & Nutrition
The Eatery serves breakfast from 7:50-8:15 A.M., and lunch daily. Students and staff have a choice of the Eatery Meal Deal, which meets the USDA requirements, or an extensive a la carte menu. The menu is posted weekly around the school, and is published on the District’s website, food.mmsd.org.
At the Eatery students may use cash; or they may use their La Follette ID number to access money PREVIOUSLY DEPOSITED in their lunch accounts. Deposits into student accounts may be made a registration or on any school day. Checks covering weekly or monthly payments are preferred. Students are not allowed to use their accounts until the money has been deposited. The Eatery uses the MEALPAY system, an online and telephone-based system that allows families to make school meal prepayments. Information is available at Registration. Families of students eligible for free/reduced lunches must complete an application online during registration/enrollment or anytime during the school year.
Full-Time Status
A full-time credit load for 9th, 10th, and 11th graders is 7.0 credits. A full-time credit load for 12th graders is 6.0 credits. Students must carry 1.5 credits each term. Teaching assistantships, tutoring, and office assistantships do not count towards this credit total. Athletes must also carry 1.5 credits each term to be eligible.
Grades and Grading
Graduation Requirements
Subject Area | Class of 2021-2023 | Class of 2020 | UW System College Preparatory Course Minimum Requirements http://uwhelp.wisconsin.edu/admissions/freshman/collegeprep.aspx |
---|---|---|---|
English |
4 credits
|
4 credits
|
4 credits |
Math |
3 credits |
3 credits |
3/4 credits |
Social Studies |
3 credits
|
3 credits
|
3 credits |
Science |
3 credits |
3 credits |
3 credits |
Health & Fitness |
2 credits
|
2 credits
|
|
Humanities |
1 credit
|
1 credit
|
At least two years of a single world language are strongly recommended at UW System campuses and required at UW Madison and UW Eau Claire An additional 4 credits may be chosen from English, mathematics, natural science, social science/history, foreign language, fine arts, computer science, and other academic areas. Some UW System campuses may also accept technical and career courses for a portion of these 4 elective credits. |
Civics |
Successfully complete the state- mandated civics exam. Defined as answering at least 60% of the presented questions correctly. Completion is indicated on the official transcript. |
Successfully complete the state- mandated civics exam. Defined as answering at least 60% of the presented questions correctly. Completion is indicated on the official transcript. |
|
Financial Literacy |
.5 credit |
||
Total Credits |
2021 - 24 credits 2022 - 23 credits 2023 - 22 credits |
2019 - 26 credits 2020 - 25 credits |
Identification Cards
A picture ID card is required for each student. ID card presentation is required for checking out LMC materials, admission to athletic and social activities, and some lunch purchases. ID replacements cost $5.00 and are available in the Welcome Center on any school day during the lunch hour. Students must present their ID cards to teachers upon request.
Illness and Medication
It is not always easy to decide if your child is sick enough to stay home or well enough to be in school. Students who come to school are expected, with few exceptions, to participate fully in school activities. Here are some guidelines that might help in a parent’s decision-making:
- A fever of 100 or more signals an illness that is probably going to make a student uncomfortable and unable to function well in class. Your child should stay home until he/she is feeling better.
- Vomiting, diarrhea or severe nausea are symptoms that require a student to remain at home until a normal diet is tolerated the night before and the morning of school.
- Infectious diseases such as impetigo, pink eye with thick drainage, and strep throat require a doctor’s examination and prescription for medication. Contacting the doctor and using the medicine as directed for the full-recommended length of time are necessary. Once medication has been started and the student feels well, he/she may return to school.
- Students with chicken pox may return to school when all the scabs are completely dried and no new lesions are developing (usually 5-7 days).
- Rashes or patches of broken, itchy skin, needs to be examined by a doctor if they appear to be spreading or not improving.
- If a student has an injury that causes continuous discomfort or an inability to move throughout the building, he/she should not attend school until a doctor checks the condition, or it improves. Injuries that interfere with class participation need a medical evaluation. If participation in physical education classes is not recommended, a doctor’s excuse is required. If a student needs medication administered at school during the school day, the following must be in place with the school nurse:
- Written order from the practitioner indicating the name and dosage of the drug and time to be given.
- The Parent/Guardian Medication/Procedure Consent Form
- Container with the medication in it and labeled with the:
- Student’s full name,
- Name and dosage of the drug,
- Time to be given, and
- Practitioner’s name
Students will take the medication at the designated time supervised by authorized school personnel and only limited quantities of any medication should be kept at school. All medication administered at school will be stored in a locked cubicle, drawer, or other safe place. Parents/legal guardians must notify the school when the drug is discontinued and/or the dosage or time is changed. If the medication is changed, a new order must be received from the practitioner. No aspirin or other over-the-counter medication will be administered to students unless the above process has been completed. New written permission from the practitioner and parent/legal guardian must be received each year for pupils who take.
By law, students are able to self-carry rescue inhalers and epinephrine via auto injectors. As parents, you know your student is able to handle the responsibility of self carrying emergency medication. The health office is available to manage the student’s emergency medication, if appropriate. Students are not allowed to self-carry other prescription or non-prescription medications at school due to the risk this presents to all students. Please contact the health office for more information or questions.
Incompletes
Infants and Small Children
Level Changes within content
Locker Assignments
Hall and gym lockers are assigned to students at the beginning of each school year. The assignment of lockers is a responsibility of the principal or the principal’s designee. If a student has an issue with a locker, s/he should report it to the neighborhood office. Students should not occupy a locker other than the one to which they are assigned. Hall lockers come equipped with locks. Locks left on gym lockers in the physical education area beyond the term in which the student is enrolled in PE will be cut off.
The principal and/or his/her designee retain the right to inspect any locker or lockers as may be necessary or appropriate. This right shall be exercised if and when, in the judgment of the principal, there may be reasonable suspicion to believe that a locker may be used to conceal anything illegal or evidence of a violation of school rules or Board policy.
Students are responsible for the security of school materials and personal property stored in their lockers. Students should allow only authorized persons to use their locker. Students must report locker damage to their neighborhood office immediately. Students must report thefts to their neighborhood office immediately. Students must report students tampering with their lock or locker to their neighborhood office immediately.
Loss of Stolen Electronic Devices
Board of Education policies places clear limits of student possession of electronic devices such as cell phones and iPods in school, and provides information regarding students’ responsibility for the safekeeping of such items at school. Board Policy 4403, #3 states, “Pupils who possess a device do so at their own risk to possible loss, damage or liability.”
Lost or stolen electronic items should be reported immediately to the neighborhood office via a “Theft/lost item report”. Principal’s will review the report and will take appropriate follow up actions to assist students. Again, possession of these items at school are at your own risk.
Lost and Found
Opt-out of Release of Information to the Military / Institutions of Higher Education
A federal law mandates the release of the name, address, and telephone number of your child to military recruiters or institutions of higher learning. According to the new law, you may request that your child’s name, address, and telephone number not be released by completing a form available online at the district website. If you have previously filled out the form, you do not need to complete another form, unless you wish to change your prior decision.
Parking
All students who drive to school will be expected to adhere to the following minimum regulations and procedures:
- Parking will be available for juniors and seniors only. A parking permit must be purchased for $40.00 and must be displayed on the windshield. This permit allows you to park but does not guarantee a space, and only one permit will be issued per car. Do not lose, give away, or sell your permit.
- Student vehicles will be parked only in the designated areas. The area adjacent to the Welcome Center entrance is reserved for staff and guest parking. The first 3 rows in the large parking lot are reserved for staff. Students are not permitted to park in the Sennett Middle School parking lot.
- Tickets will be issued for cars illegally parked. Do not park in fire lanes or attempt to use the lawn for parking.
- Safe driving practices must be observed. Speeds in excess of ten (l0) miles per hour on school premises are prohibited.
- The parking lot is off-limits during school hours, except for students leaving school or coming to school in their vehicles.
- Students who do not adhere to the above regulations may be subject to administrative action including revocation of on-campus parking privileges, ticketing, or suspension from school.
Physical Education and GPA Exclusion
All physical education courses are letter graded (A, B, C, D, F) and as such are included in the student’s overall Grade Point Average (GPA). Students/Parents may select to have their grade recorded as Pass/Fail and consequently not influence their GPA. However, to do so, the student/parent must file a “GPA Exclusion Form” in the Guidance Office by 4:00pm on Friday of the second week of the term. Requests for GPA Exclusion under this clause will not be considered beyond this timeline. Be advised that the grading scale for Pass/Fail is modified to: A, B, C=Pass, D, and F=Fail.
Retaking a Course
To increase proficiency/mastery or gain credit, students may retake a course if a grade of F, D, C, or B has been earned. There are two categories of course retakes:
- The identical course (may be with a different teacher) taken during the school year at the next scheduled offering of the course, if space is available, unless the principal grants an exception. Students who are taking a class for the first time have priority over students retaking a class.
- A summer school “equivalent.” High school principals will determine each year those Summer School courses, which are “equivalent,” (e.g. U.S. History Semester 1, Summer School equivalent to U.S. History 9, Semester 1.)
The transcript for students reflects all the courses taken and grades earned. Grades, original and retake, will appear on the transcript. The higher of the two grades, original or retake, becomes the G.P.A. grade and credit is granted. The lower of the two grades is not included in the G.P.A. nor is credit granted. It is the student’s responsibility to check with the counselor to be sure the transcript has the GPA calculated correctly after a course is retaken.
Safety & Security
Families play a key role in school safety. At lafollette.madison.k12.wi.us/families/safety-and-security, you can read about school-specific resources for helping keep students safe. You’ll find more information on district safety and security, including how we communicate with you in an emergency, at madison.k12.wi.us/safety.
Suspension from School
Students who are suspended from school for the day are expected to remain home. A suspended student who appears on the school grounds is legally trespassing and is subject to police citation. Work missed during the period of suspension may be made up through the student’s own initiative. Work includes homework, class work, tests, and times missed in courses such as physical education/health. A readmit conference with a parent is required upon return to school.
Transcripts
When applying for college, scholarships, military branches, and some jobs, an official copy of a high school transcript is required. Transcripts must be requested through the Parchment website: www.parchment.com. A small fee is charged. It’s important for students to request transcripts from Parchment at least 2 weeks prior to their deadline. It is the responsibility of the students and families to be aware of the various deadlines. If an official transcript is not required, students can print their own unofficial copy of their transcript by logging into Infinite Campus.
All application materials requiring counselors or teachers to write recommendations, or fill in information about the student, must be given to counselor in a timely manner. The material should be given to counselors and teachers well in advance of that final deadline.
The Student Services Office can issue official transcripts to current students over 18 for the purpose of applying for scholarships or honors, once they have completed a Transcript Release Form. Students under 18, must have a parent or guardian sign the Transcript Release Form to obtain an official transcript. Former students and graduates must request their transcript from Parchment, www.parchment.com for a small fee.
Transfers
Students entering La Follette must meet La Follette’s credit and course requirements from the point of entry unless they enter with a deficit from their previous school. In evaluating credits from other high schools, a percentage formula will be used. Students will be notified as to their credit status as soon as the records have been received and evaluated. The number of graduation credits required for transfer students will be based on the number of credits required by each school attended and the time spent at each school. This figure will be determined using the following formula: (% of time at school X number of credits required) plus (% of time at La Follette X number of credits required) – Total Graduation Credits Required.
- Official grade placement for incoming transfer students is determined only after official records are received verifying a student’s credit status.
- If a student is behind credits at the school from which s/he came, credit makeup will be required at La Follette.
Internal Transfers
All students currently attending La Follette under an Internal Transfer will be able to continue attending and attend the schools in the normal progression as defined by the previous policy. Students that move out of their current attendance area after February 1st will be allowed to continue at that school for the remainder of this school year and will have to apply for an Internal Transfer for the next school year if they would like to stay at that school or feeder pattern.
- There will be two internal transfer application windows
- Students that move out of your attendance area over the summer prior to the start of the school year, will need to apply for an internal transfer for the 2018-2019 school year.
- Paper applications will not be accepted. Schools and the enrollment office will be available to help families needing assistance in filling out the online application. Over-the-phone applications will be accepted. Parents will receive a confirmation email when application is submitted.
- Applications not approved will go on a wait list.
- Students accepted under the new internal transfer policy, need to reapply when they are transitioning from 5th or 6th grade or 8th to 9th grade.
- Schools that are considered at capacity will not be accepting applications, and families will not have the option to request that location.
- There will be no appeal process and all decisions will be finalized on or before August 26th.
The internal transfer process provides an opportunity for students to attend an MMSD school that is outside of their regular MMSD attendance area. Transportation is not provided to students attending under an internal transfer.
Like most districts, MMSD’s schools are set up in what are called feeder patterns. These patterns group certain elementary schools together and students from those schools go to the same middle school. The same is true for grouping middle schools together for going on to high school. When a student progresses from 5th to 6th grade, they have to reapply if they want to follow along with their school’s feeder pattern, unless they already live in that middle school’s attendance boundary. The same is true for students moving from middle to high school (8th to 9th grade). Please note this only applies to students under the new transfer policy, 2015-2016 or later. Please email or call the enrollment office at (608) 663-4957 if you have any questions regarding an existing or future internal transfer.
Transportation is not provided to students attending under an internal transfer. You can review the revised Board Policy 4023 – Internal Transfers at mmsd.org. If you would like to see how the district decides to approve or deny an internal transfer request, the criteria we use are available on our website: mmsd.org.
Revocation of an Internal Transfer
A principal may revoke an internal transfer for reasons related to absenteeism and tardiness of the student. The revocation becomes effective at the end of the year. If an Assistant Superintendent granted the transfer under specific criteria then that Assistant Superintendent has the discretion to revoke the transfer.
Visitors to La Follette
Withdrawing a Student from La Follette
When a student withdraws from school, he/she must bring notification in writing from the parent/guardian to the neighborhood principal. The student will then be given a Withdrawal Form, which must be taken to his/her counselor and teachers. After securing their signatures, he/she will check with the LMC and the neighborhood office to clear any outstanding obligations. Upon completion of this procedure, the school registrar will close the student’s record. Records will be forwarded to the student’s new school upon that school’s request.
Work Permits
Work permits may be obtained in the Welcome Center before school, during lunch and after school. When required materials are dropped off in the morning, permits are typically available by the end of the day. Please be prepared to allow up to a day for processing. At the time of application, student must be in good standing with the school. Students must bring the following to obtain a permit:
- Birth certificate, baptismal certificate or valid driver’s license/State ID
- Letter from parent approving the student’s accepting the job
- Letter from employer with hours of employment
- Social Security Card (ORIGINAL)
- $10.00 which will be reimbursed by the employer.
Students and Student Achievement
- Academic Recognition
- Advanced Learning
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
- AVID/TOPS
- Course Offerings
- English Language Learners
- Library Media Center (LMC)
- Madison Virtual Campus
- National Honor Society
- Scholarships
- Special Education
- Student Services
- School Store - The Lancer Zone
- Summer School
- Credit Opportunities outside of MMSD
Academic Recognition
LA FOLLETTE HONOR ROLL provides recognition for those students who have achieved academic excellence, and is published each term in school and community newspapers. Qualification for the Honor Roll is based on the following criteria:
- A minimum of 1.5 credits must be maintained each term that count in the GPA.
- A grade point average of 3.2 is required for the Honor Roll.
- A grade point average of 3.6 is required for the High Honor Roll.
- The grade point average is determined by:
- Adding the total grade points (A= 4, B= 3, C= 2, D= 1)
- Dividing by the total number of those credits attempted. Service related classes include class assistant, office assistant, LMC/AV assistant, etc. are graded Pass/Fail and do not count in the GPA. Physical education may count for all students. Independent study courses are graded Pass/Fail and may not count.
- Plus and minus notations are not counted, and there is no rounding of grade point averages.
HONOR CORDS are presented to graduating seniors who have maintained a 3.5 cumulative grade point average at the end of the third term of their senior year.
Advanced Learning
The mission of the Advanced Learning Department is to identify and support students who demonstrate high- performance capability or the potential for high performance within one or more areas.
The goal of the Advanced Learning Division is to provide challenging and continuous curricula and programming for identified students in order that they may achieve the student’s’ full academic, intellectual, and creative potential. Advanced Learning staff works with students, educators, and families to identify the educational needs of and provide a continuum of services for students who show an exceptional level of performance.
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
La Follette offers a range of AP courses. Students who receive scores of 4 or 5 on the national AP examinations given in May may receive college credit at some U.S. colleges and universities. The following courses are available at La Follette:
Biology - AP
Calculus I - AP
Computer Science - AP
English Language & Composition - AP
English Literature & Composition – AP
Environmental Science - AP
Psychology - AP
Statistics - AP
US History - AP
World History - AP
Spanish Language - AP
Spanish Literature - AP
Teachers in some advanced courses, which do not follow the prescribed AP curriculum, are willing to assist students who wish to take the AP examinations in those areas.
AVID/TOPS
The AVID/TOPS class is an elective class for students who have a desire to attend college after high school. Students apply to the program at the end of 8th or at other times throughout high school as spots open up in classes. The AVID elective curriculum focuses on writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization and reading (WICOR) in both teacher and tutor-led activities. While concurrently enrolled in a college-prep courses of study including honors and AP courses, students learn strategies to enhance success. Note-taking, outlining, writing, speaking, reading, research, test-taking strategies, and self-awareness and advocacy are stressed. In addition, the course includes college motivational activities (field trips, guest speakers) and intensive preparation for ACT. Additionally, students are cohorted with the same teacher and class of students for all four years of high school in order to maintain community and systems of support throughout high school. In order to remain in the program, students in the AVID/TOPS program must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA.
Course Offerings
La Follette provides a variety of courses for academically able students, such as advanced courses in languages, math, and science. For those students talented in the visual arts, we offer advanced study in art to provide experiences to enhance their skills. Advanced courses in dance, music, and drama provide opportunities for those excelling in the performing arts. Extra-curricular activities, such as athletics, the school newspaper, forensics, and many clubs provide additional enrichment opportunities.
La Follette also has classes and programs for students who wish to prepare for direct entry into a job, into job training or technical school, or into the military. Vocational programs offer experiences in auto mechanics, business education, marketing, family and consumer education, and design and drafting. A Co-op program is available, which includes many of the vocational disciplines.
English Language Learners
English as a Second Language services are provided to foster both English language development and academic progress for those children not proficient in English. These services are provided through close cooperation between ESL staff and regular education staff and are based on grade-level standards and curriculum and English Language Proficiency Standards. The development of content-based academic knowledge and linguistic skills is fostered through a variety of methods, including the use of a student’s primary language based on the individual student needs and grade level.
Library Media Center (LMC)
The primary function of the LMC is to provide a wide variety of resources to support and enrich the curriculum and meet individual information needs. The LMC staff is available to assist students in learning how to select, evaluate, and use the resources in the LMC. The LMC has audio books, DVDs, databases, print materials, ebooks and Chromebooks. The LMTS also provides student 1:1 Chromebook tech support.
LMC hours are 7:45-3:45 daily. During class hours, students may come to the LMC with a pass from one of their classroom teachers. On arrival, students turn in their passes and sign in on the attendance document located at the main desk. Students are expected to remain in the LMC for the entire block.
Procedures:
- The LMC provides a teaching and learning environment. Students are expected to come with a purpose and to conduct themselves so they do not prevent others from accomplishing their work.
- Library computer use must be appropriate to our school environment. These policies are explained in the acceptable use policy.
Madison Virtual Campus
National Honor Society
While National Honor Society functions like a club...it is not! Membership is accorded as an honor to students who have shown outstanding achievement in the areas of: scholarship, character, leadership, and service. There are minimum requirements to be considered for induction. However, there is no such thing as minimum requirements to be inducted into National Honor Society. The committee looks to induct worthy students who demonstrate excellence in all four pillars mentioned above. One who strives for minimum requirements or excels in fewer than four of these areas would not fit this mold.
The information that follows represents the most recent standards and timetables.
The process of selecting new members is three fold and involves all four pillars:
- Students who have met the standards for scholarship (A minimum GPA of 3.5) are invited to apply for membership through a letter sent home which involves submitting documentation of service hours and filling out an application. There will be a date documented in the mailing that serves as the hard deadline for submitting the required materials. Qualifying juniors will apply during the spring semester of their junior year while qualifying seniors apply in the fall of their senior year.
- Once the deadline has passed, applicants who have submitted all required materials will be evaluated by the staff of La Follette High School. Along with scholarship, these evaluations will be based on the character and leadership demonstrated by the student.
Character Guidelines:
- Displays the qualities of cheerfulness, friendliness, poise, and stability.
- Takes criticism willingly and accepts recommendations graciously.
- Demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability.
- Shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others.
- Shows perseverance in applying himself or herself to studies.
- Follows instructions and rules, is punctual, and shows faithfulness in obligations both in and out of the classroom.
Leadership Guidelines:
- Exercises a positive influence on peers.
- Contributes ideas that improve the civic life of the school.
- Exemplifies positive qualities.
- Inspires positive behavior in others.
- Demonstrates academic initiative.
- Demonstrates leadership in the classroom, at work, and in school activities.
- Demonstrates dependability in any role he or she accepts.
- Service cards submitted during the application process are evaluated. Service is generally considered to be actions taken without compensation to benefit those with a genuine need. The committee looks for service to the school and community that is selfless and does not indirectly or directly benefit the student doing the activity. Raising money for an activity that benefits the student, a sports team for instance, does not fit the description for service. We are most interested in seeing service to the school and community that is selfless and comes from the heart.
- Completed applications will be evaluated. Service descriptions will be considered as well as applicants writing on why they would like to become a National Honor Society members and special circumstances the students has faced that applicants would like the committee to consider.
Service Guidelines:
To be considered for National Honor Society, a student should present:
- At least 30 hours of service which reflect at least 15 hours towards the school and at least 15 hours which benefit the community.
- Service hours which are distributed across the student’s high school career.
- Service must be documented on service cards (available in Guidance) which must be filled out by the student and signed (legibly) by the advisor of each club or activity in which the student participates.
- Cards may not be signed by parents.
- The committee considers the number of different activities in which the student participates as well as the quality of the service completed.
- Examples of school service: Tutoring, food drives, blood drives, Key Club activities, Student Athletic Advisory Council, Student Council, school clean-up, work on beautifying the grounds.
- Examples of service to the community: Working at the Salvation Army, bell ringing, food pantries, soup kitchens, Ronald McDonald house food preparation, volunteering at nursing homes and area hospitals, Habitat for Humanity, Toys for Tots.
Membership:
To clarify, there is no such thing as minimum requirements to be chosen for induction to National Honor Society. The ultimate decision on induction lies in the hands of the committee. Those chosen for induction into National Honor Society are notified and the installation of new members takes place in the spring. Members are expected to attend biweekly meetings and continue to provide service to the school and community. They must maintain a 3.5 grade point average and sign a code of conduct. Failure to live up to these standards could result in their dismissal. Members automatically belong to the national organization. Members are listed in the graduation program and wear gold honor cords on their graduation robes.
Contact Person: Ted Ryan (tryan@madison.k12.wi.us)
Scholarships
To be eligible for Madison Metropolitan School District scholarships, a student must have been a full-time student at La Follette and complete a local scholarship application.
La Follette High School is fortunate that a variety of state and local organizations give annual scholarship monies to graduating seniors. Each agency or organization sets the criteria, which must be met for the money to be awarded. Criteria vary widely, but most often relate to grade point average, service to school or community, leadership, character, participation in extra-curriculars, or some combination of the above.
The Academic Excellence Scholarship: Given by the State of Wisconsin Higher Education Aids Board, this is a four-year award worth $2250 per year, awarded to the top several seniors and payable only if the student attends college in the state of Wisconsin. These seniors are selected as measured by highest cumulative grade point average through semester one of the senior year. If a tie exists for the number one rank it will be broken by the student’s highest composite ACT score (or converted SAT score), from tests taken no later than December of the senior year. If a tie remains after the use of the test score, the tie will be broken as defined by the La Follette Scholarship Committee.
Tie Breaking Procedure for the Academic Excellence Scholarship and the Wisconsin All State Scholars Scholarship: Effective with the 2005-06 school year, top rank for those with 4.0 GPAs will be determined by using the highest composite ACT score (or highest converted SAT score), from a student’s best single test date, (tests taken no later than December of senior year). If after using this test score approach, a tie still exists (i.e., six students all share composite ACT scores of “35”) our committee declares that a deadlock exists. In this event, there exists no further method that would fairly and objectively separate one outstanding candidate from another. At this point the names of the students tied at each test score level would be entered in a random lottery. The lottery would be supervised by one of the high school principals, to yield a final rank ordering.
Special Education
The Madison Metropolitan School District’s Division of Special Education works closely with La Follette in the identification and programming of students with disabilities who require special education and related services. These services are provided in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law reauthorized in 2004 that guarantees that all students with a disability receive a free, appropriate, public education. The special education needs of students are met through a coordinated effort between regular education and special education staff.
Both special education and related services are documented in the student’s individualized educational program (IEP) plan and are based on the student’s individual needs as determined by the IEP Team. The parent and regular education teachers are full participants of the IEP Team in all decision-making.
Student Services
Counselor Assignments
School counselors provide individual academic planning and counseling, help students transitioning to the next grade, provide alternative program information, help with course selection and career exploration and post-high school planning, provide interpretation of test results and information on educational assessments, inform students about scholarships and financial aid and job/employment information, and work cooperatively with teachers and parents to better understand and meet the educational and emotional needs of individual students. Outside referrals are made to agencies and individuals as deemed necessary. Please refer to the following web site for more information: lafollette.madison.k12.wi.us/guidancesocialservices_staff
Jena Acker 204-3665
Judy Christensen 204-3602
Betsy Peterson 204-3664
Amy Schwab 204-3663
Calvin Taylor 204-3662
Emily Valdivia 204-3615
Health Services
La Follette has a nurse and nurse’s assistant on staff who are available to perform a number of health-related services including: administration of medication during the school day, hearing and vision screening, caring for sick or injured students, alcohol and other drug screening or drug concerns, assistance to pregnant and parenting teens, teaching students about healthy lifestyles and disease prevention and assistance with accessing health and dental care. Please contact the Health Office with any concern or question you may have about your or your child’s health. The La Follette Health Office is open from 7:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. In addition to activities listed above, the nurse is also available for health counseling, teaching, and referral towards medical services. Nurses can also assist families whose students lack health insurance enroll in programs providing health resources. Medication can only be administered through the Health Office with a physician’s order and written parental consent. Additional services that are provided only by the nurse practitioner include: diagnosis and treatment of pink eye impetigo, minor skin infections, swimmer’s ear, ear infections, head lice, scabies, strep throat, and ringworm of the body. All of the essential forms are available from the Health Office. All physical education excuses need to be routed through the Health Office. Margaret Corbae, Nurse 204-3621
Minority Services
Special emphasis is given to promoting educational opportunities for minority students at La Follette. Programs such as the AHANA (African American-Hispanic-Native American) Student Leadership Conference are designed to promote academic excellence, earning of the high school diploma, personal growth, and preparing for post high school experiences (college and vocational). Clubs are also established to aid in the growth of each student, such as, Hispanic/Native American Council and Asian Council. The MSC is available to assist all minority students (and parents of minority students) to have successful educational experiences at La Follette. Johnnie Milton, 204-3661
Psychologists
Psychologists are available at all schools. They provide individual and group counseling to help students solve problems, support for students with behavioral, social and academic concerns, crisis interventions, and assistance with and provide information about depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. They are available to students and parents through self-referral or referral from counselors, teachers, peers, and/or principals.
Aaron Dickson 204-3635
Lindsey Bucki 204-3616
Social Workers
Social work support is available at all secondary schools. Social workers help students in crisis or in conflict, aid students if they are in an abusive or violent relationship, give support so students graduate and deal with truancy concerns, help students with dating issues, decision-making skills, protective behaviors and alcohol and other drugs and provide referrals to outside community services. They are available to students and parents through self-referral or referral from a counselor, teacher, peer, and/or principal.
Kyle Bollman 204-3636
Michelle Olson 204-3674
Career Resource Center (CRC) and Student Services Website
The Career Resource Center is located in the Student Services Office. Both internet-based and print information is available on post-high-school employment, education, and financial aid. Information is available from the La Follette Student Services website, at https://www.madison.k12.wi.us/laf/tour-guidance.shtml
School Store - The Lancer Zone
Students participating in the Marketing Education Program as part of their course assignments operate the Lancer Zone. The store provides students with opportunities to gain experiences in marketing/business while offering the following categories of items: Snacks, beverages, apparel (to include letter jackets), school spirit and a limited amount of school supplies.
Generally, the store is open during lunch on Tuesday and Thursdays, but hours may vary according to student work schedules. The Store will also be open for Parent/Teacher Conferences, Go-School Night, Holiday Shopping, and other occasions.
Summer School
- Students that fail courses during the school year are strongly encouraged to make-up the credits during the summer. Course availability during the school year will not be guaranteed for students who have failed a course that is typically offered during summer school.
- Summer School will be offered at East, La Follette, West and Memorial, running for 6 weeks beginning a week after graduation. Classes are offered from 8:00 am to 11:45. A strict attendance policy is enforced.
- Students can take two courses during summer school. Each course is worth .5 credits and is equivalent to a one-term class at La Follette.
- Students may not use summer school credits to work ahead in English, science, social studies, math, or physical education towards graduation.
- Students may only take .5 credits of English per grade level during summer school. For instance, a student could take .5 credit of 11th grade English and .5 credit of 12th grade English. However, a student may not take 1 credit of 12th grade English.
- Summer school applications are typically available in May. Students should work with their counselors to identify which courses to take.
Credit Opportunities outside of MMSD
The Early College Credit Program (ECCP) allows high school students the opportunity to take college courses at Wisconsin public (University of Wisconsin) and private universities. Students looking to take courses in the fall semester or over summer, must turn in the application to their high school representative by March 1 of each year. For spring semester, the deadline for submission to their high school representative is October 1 of each year.
Start College Now (SCN) allows high school students the opportunity to take college courses at Wisconsin Technical Colleges. Students looking to take courses in the fall semester must turn in the application to their high school representative by March 1 of each year. For spring semester courses, the deadline for submission to their high school representative is October 1 of each year.
STEM Academy (STEM)
The Early College STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Academy is a partnership between the Madison Metropolitan School District and Madison College. The Academy is designed to expand access to college courses in science, technology, engineering and math and to increase opportunities for students to earn college credit in high school at no cost to them or their families. Students enrolled in the program will have access to a range of courses at Madison College that include options for transfer to a four-year college or university. Students can choose to focus on one area interest or to explore multiple options, based on their personal goals. For general questions about the program, contact Jabalja Gussine and Lisa Lehman (608-204- 4129/608-204-4132).
Part-Time Open Enrollment (PTOE) allows students to attend public school in a nonresident school district (including online or virtual district options) for the purpose of taking a course offered by the nonresident school district. A pupil may attend no more than two courses at any time in nonresident school districts.
See MMSD website for applications and more detailed information: https://cte.madison.k12.wi.us/youth-options
Extracurricular Activities
Athletics
Athletic Activity Cards
The student activity card is a special form of the student identification card used for all the routine purposes and as admittance to any regular season home athletic contest. Activity Cards are NOT valid at any away games or WIAA Tournament contests.
Athletic Programs
Following is a list of possible activities offered on an annual basis. Contact the Athletic Director at 204-3656 to determine current sport offerings.
Fall: Cheerleading, Boys and Girls Cross Country, Football, Girls Golf, Dance, Boys Soccer, Girls Swimming, Girls Tennis, Boys and Girls Volleyball
Winter: Boys and Girls Basketball, Cheerleading, Girls Gymnastics, Boys and Girls Hockey, Dance, Boys Swimming, Wrestling
Spring: Baseball, Boys Golf, Girls Soccer, Girls Softball, Boys and Girls Track, Boys Tennis
Athletic Fees
Participants are required to remit an athletic participation fee of $115.00 for EACH sport in which they intend to participate when they register each fall. There will be an additional $100.00 surcharge for athletic participation in Gymnastics, and Wrestling.
There will be an additional $118.00 surcharge for Boys and Girls Golf. There will also be an additional surcharge of $800.00 for athletic participation in Hockey. Families will pay a maximum of $500.00 for athletic participation. Surcharge amounts are excluded in the family maximum however, the $115.00 portion of the participation fee will be included in the family maximum.
This fee is nonrefundable unless the athlete is cut from a team for reasons of skill. In accordance with Board of Education policy, athletes who meet certain criteria may apply for athletic fee waivers in the athletic office.
Dances
La Follette’s calendar includes dances throughout the school year. These may include mixers and more formal dances. All dances, except Prom, are held at La Follette and planned by various groups. Prom is for Juniors and Seniors only. Freshman and Sophomores may only attend if invited by an upperclassman. Since the purpose of dances is to provide social activity for La Follette students, they are closed to the general public. A La Follette ID card must be presented at the door. Once students have entered the dance they may not leave and return again. Approval may be granted for guests to come to Prom and Homecoming via prior notice to the appropriate Principal. Conduct and attire, except when dress is determined by the nature of the dance (i.e., formal, costume, etc.) must conform to school regulations and city fire codes. Students depending on a ride should be sure it is at the school immediately after the dance.
Students who wish to bring guests must complete and submit a guest application for approval to the appropriate neighborhood office. Guests must be under 19 years old as of the date of the event. Guest applications are subject to the review and approval of La Follette High School Administration.
Non-Athletic Activities
There are numerous activities to get involved with at La Follette. Please take advantage of as many as you can. The following is a partial list of Clubs/Councils/Groups that are typically offered at La Follette:
Asian Council
Chess Club
DECA
Forensics
French Honor Society
Gardening Club
Gay/Straight Alliance
German Club
Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) Key Club
Lancer PRIDE Guides
Lancer Rugby Club
Latino Association
Literary Club-Round Table
Math Club
National Honor Society (NHS) Recycling Club
Restorative Justice
Stage Crew
Student Athlete Advisory Council Student Council
Tutoring
World Language Honor Society Yearbook
School Song and Alma Mater
LA FOLLETTE PEP SONG
La Follette keep on fighting
We’ve got the best team in the Big Eight
Let out that yell now for our great team
We’re going to shout out loud and clear (U Rah Rah)
La Follette keep on fighting
And take that ball down for the big score
Let out that yell now for our great team
La Follette High will win tonight.
LA FOLLETTE ALMA MATER
La Follette High School we shall love thee
Keep you banners flying high.
Your mem’ries we shall love and cherish,
Strive your name to glorify---
La Follette High School we shall love thee,
The Cardinal and the Gray.
Our alma mater your ideals will guide us every day.
Note that many items in these guides are specific to teaching and learning within school buildings, and we know that adjustments will need to be made as we go. Please use this as a starting point and connect with your school if you have specific questions about how things will be handled in a virtual setting.