Lovington Municipal Schools

MISSION STATEMENT

Lovington Municipal Schools is dedicated to providing opportunities for every Wildcat to create, achieve, transform, and succeed in a safe environment to reach their highest potential. All Lovington Wildcats act with integrity, communicate effectively, adapt to change, think critically, and exert confidence in the pursuit of excellence.

LOVINGTON MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS

NOTICE TO PARENTS AND STUDENTS

The Lovington School Board hereby gives public notice, as required by the Amended Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, to all parents of students under the age of 18 and to students 18 or older that the Lovington Municipal School System maintains the following educational records directly related to students: academic records, personal information, disciplinary records, health records, and standardized testing records.

A student's records will be filed at the building in which he/she attends school. For access to a student's records please contact the building principal. Access to education records is limited to:

Parents of students under 18.
Parents of students over 18 if said student is dependent as such as defined in the Internal Revenue Code.
Students.
Officials of this school district who have a legitimate educational interest.
State and local officials to whom information is required to be reported.
Certain testing organizations.
Accrediting organizations.
Appropriate persons in connection with an emergency.
Subpoena or court order.
A school or schools in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
Any person with the written consent of the parents of students under 18 or the written consent of students 18 or older.

The Lovington Municipal School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its educational programs, activities, and employment. Furthermore, it provides equal access to designated youth groups. The following person is designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:

Kirk Murad
District Activities Director
701 West Avenue K
Lovington, New Mexico 88260

Telephone: (575) 739-2266

GENERAL INFORMATION

The provisions in this Handbook apply:

During regular school hours;
During the transportation of students;
During times and places where school administrators and/or staff have jurisdiction including, but not limited to, school-sponsored events and activities such as dances, field trips, athletic functions, and other school-related activities.

FERPA NOTICE STUDENT RECORD REQUESTS (J-7061)
The Lovington Municipal School District recognizes the rights of parents and guardians to access their student’s educational records in accordance with FERPA. In addition, students who are at least 18 years old may access their own records. In brief, these rights include:
Parents, guardians, or students who are emancipated or at least 18 years old

have the right to inspect and review the student’s education records
have the right to request that a school correct records that they believe to be inaccurate
have a right to a formal hearing if a school decides not to change the record
have a right to place a statement with the record about his/her view of the contested information after the hearing, if the school decides not to change the record.

Parents, guardians, or students who are emancipated or who are at least 18 years old must give written permission for a school to release a student’s educational record to third parties not exempted by FERPA. FERPA also allows schools to disclose a student’s information without consent, to the following parties or under the following circumstances. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended (ESEA) to provide student directory information to the military unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. Parties who may receive student information without parental consent include:

School officials with a legitimate educational interest
Other educational institutions where the student is enrolled or seeks to enroll
Department of Education, state or local education authorities
Appropriate parties connected to financial aid for the student
Certain state or local officials
Accrediting organizations
Organizations conducting studies for or on behalf of the school
Judicial order or subpoena
Appropriate officials in cases of health or safety emergencies

School sites shall direct all questions about fulfilling these requests for student information to the Custodian of Records. LMSD will redact students’ personally identifiable information from responses to requests for records from third parties.

ATTENDANCE
Any parent, guardian, or person having custody and control of a "school-age person" is responsible for the school attendance of that person until that person has reached at least eighteen (18) years of age unless the person has graduated from high school, received a school equivalency credential or withdrawn on a hardship waiver. The school-age person has the right to attend public school within the school district of residence. The school-age person shall attend school for at least the length of time of the school year that is established in the school district in which the child is a resident or enrolled. A "school-age person" means a person is at least five (5) years of age prior to 12:01 a.m. on September 1 of the then-current school year.

Pregnant and parenting students must have the same educational opportunities as their peers. The regular school attendance of a child of school age is required by state law. Regular school attendance is essential for success in school; therefore, absences shall be excused only for necessary and important reasons. Such reasons include, but are not limited to illness, injury, bereavement of a family member, other family emergencies, and observance of major religious holidays of the family's faith or religious instruction and tribal obligations. For religious instruction and tribal obligations written consent of a parent and approval of the principal are required. A student may be excused for authorized reasons and time shall be provided for the student to make up the work.

An unexcused absence means an absence from a class or school day (half of the student's approved program) for which the student does not have an allowable excuse. Absent means not attending a class or school day for any reason, excused or not except for interscholastic extracurricular activities.

In the event of a necessary absence known in advance, the parent is expected to inform the school. If the absence is caused by an emergency, such as illness, or injury the parent is expected to telephone the school office, if possible. When a student returns to school following an absence, a note of explanation from the parent is required, unless the parent notified the school before the absence.

School administrators are authorized to excuse students from school for necessary and justifiable reasons as determined by the circumstances surrounding the cause of the absence.

FOOD AND NUTRITION
Food/drinks are not to be allowed in the building or classrooms without prior approval by the principal. Food deliveries will not be accepted at any school campus at any time.

IMMUNIZATIONS
All students are to meet the requirements as set forth by the Lovington Board of Education and the State of New Mexico. A record of individual immunizations is maintained in the nurse's office. Failure to have up-to-date immunization records is cause for disenrollment.

MEDICATION (J-5350)
Medication may be given at school under Lovington Schools Medication Policy. If you feel that a doctor will prescribe medication that needs to be taken at school, please pick up a "Physician order and Medication" form from the office.

OPEN ENROLLMENT (J-1050)
Students whose parents or legal guardians are not residents in the Lovington School District MAY be admitted for attendance. Continued attendance in the district is expressly conditioned upon compliance with the rules of the Lovington Schools and of the school attended.

Out-of-district students who are currently expelled or suspended from another school district will not be allowed to attend Lovington Schools.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE (I-8250)
State Law, section 22-5-4.5, requires that the "Pledge of Allegiance shall be recited daily in each public school district..

LEAVING SCHOOL DURING SCHOOL HOURS
Students are under the school's jurisdiction during school hours. School personnel will attempt to see that no student leaves the school during school hours, voluntarily or involuntarily in company with anyone that is not authorized by the parent or guardian to take the child. To ensure compliance with this rule, school personnel shall request identification of unfamiliar individuals who request the removal of a child from school property. If said individuals refuse to identify themselves or if they do not have parental/guardian permission to take the child, the child will not be allowed to leave school. A record of who may pick up a child will be kept in the school office.

STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION (J-7061)
If a parent, guardian, or student who is emancipated or who is at least 18 years old does not want to disclose any or all of the types of information designated below as directory information from a student’s education records without their prior written consent, the parent, guardian, or student who is emancipated or who is at least 18 years old must notify the school district in writing.

Lovington Municipal School District recognizes the following types of information as student directory information:

Name
Address
Telephone number
Name of school
Current grade
Graduation year
Eligibility and participation in officially recognized activities
Height and weight of athletic team members
Honors and awards received
Yearbooks
Identification in visual media, including photographs, videotapes, and visual images, depicting school programs or activities
A student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used by the student for purposes of accessing or communicating in electronic systems, but only if the identifier cannot be used to gain access to educational records except when used in conjunction with one or more factors that authenticate the user’s identity, such as a personal identification number (PIN), password, or other factors known or possessed by the authorized user.

A primary purpose of directory information is to allow LMSD to include the type of information from student education records in certain school and district publications. Examples include:

A playbill, showing a student’s role in a drama production
The annual yearbook
Honor roll or other recognition lists
School and district websites and newsletters
Graduation programs and
Sports activity sheets showing team members’ height and weight

Directory information is available to anyone who asks for it; its use is not limited by LMSD, however, LMSD expects that all information be used ethically.

Through the annual registration process, the district shall notify students and parents/legal guardians of the option to withhold directory information. Parents/guardians or students who are at least 18 years old may refuse to allow LMSD to designate any or all of those types of information about their student as directory information, provided the notice of such refusal is given to LMSD upon annual registration. Parents, guardians, or students who are emancipated or who are at least 18 years old may also designate in writing all or any of those items that they do not wish to be designated as directory information. If the parent, guardian, or student who is emancipated or who is at least 18 years old, desires to opt out after the annual registration process, they will need to submit an opt-out through the Student Information System and notify the building administrator.

PARENT OPT-OUT FOR STUDENT DIRECTORY REQUESTS FROM MILITARY RECRUITERS OR RECRUITERS FROM INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION:
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act mandates that, upon request by a military recruiter or recruiter for an institution of higher education, school districts must provide access to all currently enrolled secondary school student’s directory information, specifically names, addresses, and telephone listing, except in instances when the parents have “opted out” of the release of directory information about their student without their consent. A secondary school student who is emancipated or who is at least 18 years old or the parent or legal guardian of the student may request that the student’s directory information not be released to any military or post-secondary recruiter by submitting an online opt-out request. The District shall notify students and parents, legal guardians, and students of this option to withhold directory information. The District shall comply with these “opt-out” requests regarding the release of student directory information.

OPT-OUT FOR THIRD-PARTY REQUESTS
Directory information for students whose parents have blocked the release of their directory information under FERPA will be excluded from any third-party data requests. LMSD will give notice to parents or guardians of the matters considered to be directory information and the time period for opting out at least annually through the registration process or other reasonable forms of parental notification.

When a third party submits a request for student directory information, the Custodian of Records may inform the requester that pursuant to NMSA 22-21-2(A), it is against the law to sell or use student, faculty or staff lists with personal identifying information obtained from a public school or a local school district for the purpose of marketing goods or services directly to students, faculty or staff or their families by means of telephone or mail.

TRANSPORTATION POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND RULES FOR STUDENTS (E-2000)

The School District recognizes that transportation is an essential part of the School District services to students and parents, but the District further recognizes that transportation by school bus is a privilege and not a right for most students. The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance for safe transportation and to educate students, staff, parents, community members and transportation providers on safety issues and the responsibilities of school bus ridership.

All persons who ride school buses to and from school, for extra-class or co-curricular purpose or provide these services are to be aware and practice the established procedures indicated.

VISITORS AND GUESTS ON CAMPUS
The parents/guardians of students should report to the Principal's Office of the school, where arrangements may be made for visits to students, teachers, departments, classes, or activities. Students will not be called out of class for anyone other than persons listed on their sign-out permission form. The legislature of the State of New Mexico has passed a very strict law regarding trespassing on school property. This law makes unwarranted trespassing a criminal offense. Therefore, all visitors must present a photo ID and will be required to have a pass from the Main Office before visiting the school areas. The same courtesy will be extended to other visitors except when the site of the group or the nature of the visit might make it necessary to make special arrangements. If arrangements are properly made in the office, the visitor(s) will have a form properly completed and signed by the principal.

WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL PROCEDURES
A student withdrawing from school for any reason (moving, dropping out, etc.), regardless of age, must have his/her parents notify the office in person, giving the reason and date of leaving. The office will assist the student in completing the check-out procedure.

STUDENT INFORMATION

BULLYING POLICY
Bullying and harassment will not be tolerated as stated in the Lovington Municipal School Board Anti-Bullying Policy. Bullying behavior by any student in the Lovington Schools is strictly prohibited, and such conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension. Students and parents should report bullying or harassment of any kind to school officials.

Bullying means any repeated and pervasive written, verbal, or electronic expression, physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, that is intended to cause distress upon one or more students in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at school activities or sanctioned events. Bullying includes but is not limited to, hazing, harassment, intimidation, or menacing acts of a student which may, but need not be based on the student’s race, color, sex, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, age, or sexual orientation.

BULLYING/STUDENT HARASSMENT/CYBERBULLYING PREVENTION (J-2550)
Cyberbullying, as defined below, is prohibited when such bullying creates or is certain to create a hostile environment on the school campus that is so severe or pervasive as to substantially interfere with the targeted student's educational benefits, opportunities, or performance.

Bullying and harassment is prohibited in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at school activities or sanctioned events. Anti-bullying shall be included as a part of the health education curriculum as set forth in 6.29.6.8 NMAC.

Definitions
"Harassment" means knowingly pursuing a pattern of conduct that is intended to annoy, alarm or terrorize another person.

"Bullying" by another student means any repeated and pervasive written, verbal, or electronic expression, physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, that is intended to cause distress upon one (1) or more students in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at school activities or sanctioned events. Bullying includes but is not limited to, hazing, harassment, intimidation, or menacing acts of a student which may, but need not be based on the student's race, color, sex, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, age, or sexual orientation.

"Cyberbullying" means electronic communication that:
targets a specific student; is published with the intention that the communication be seen by or disclosed to the targeted student;
is in fact seen by or disclosed to the targeted student; and
creates or is certain to create a hostile environment on the school campus that is so severe or pervasive as to substantially interfere with the targeted student's educational benefits, opportunities, or performance.

A licensed school employee who has information about or a reasonable suspicion that a person is being harassed, bullied, or cyberbullied shall report immediately to the school principal, an administrator, the superintendent, or any of these school officers.

Any school administrator who receives a report of harassment, bullying, or cyberbullying shall take immediate steps to ensure a prompt investigation of the report and shall take prompt disciplinary action in response to these acts upon confirmation of the occurrence through such investigation. Such action may include the least restrictive means necessary to address a hostile environment on the school campus resulting from confirmed harassment, bullying, or cyberbullying that includes;

counseling,
mediation,
Discipline up to but not including expulsion, in addition to other civil and criminal prosecution. These punishments may be in addition to any customary discipline that the District presently dispenses.

Where disciplinary action is necessary, District policies and regulations pertaining to permissible penalties and procedures shall be followed as in policy.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE
The Board of Education, in recognition of the necessity of conducting searches and seizures from time to time in order to enforce school policies, adopts the following policy for students regarding searches and seizures.

Definition: As used in this policy "contraband" means any substance, material or object prohibited from school pursuant to school policy or state or federal law, including drugs, alcohol, fireworks, or weapons.
- Rules regarding Searches and Seizures: The District reserves the right to search persons, personal effects, and vehicles as follows:
  - A search of a person may be conducted on the basis of a reasonable, individualized suspicion that such a person is in possession of contraband. Any such search shall be conducted in private by an authorized school official of the same sex as the person to be searched and in the presence of a witness of the same sex. Strip searches are not permitted.
  - Lockers, desks, and similar storage facilities are school property and remain at all times under the control of the school; however, persons using such facilities are expected to assume full responsibility for the security of their lockers and desks and similar facilities. Periodic general inspections of lockers, desks, and similar facilities may be conducted by school officials for any reason, at any time, without notice, and without consent.
  - Persons are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not of right. The district retains the authority to conduct routine patrols of school parking lots and inspections of the exterior of automobiles on school property. Such patrols and inspections may be conducted without notice and without consent. The interiors of vehicles on school property may be inspected whenever a school official has a reasonable suspicion that contraband is within such a vehicle.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

General Information
- All individuals associated with the District, including, but not necessarily limited to, the Board, the administration, the staff, and students, are expected to conduct themselves at all times so as to provide an atmosphere free from sexual harassment.
- Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favor, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when made by a member of the school staff to a student or to another staff member, or when made by a student to another student where:
  - Submission to such conduct is either explicitly or implicitly made a term or condition of an individual’s employment or education; or
  - Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for employment or education decisions affecting such individual; or
  - Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s educational or work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive or educational environment.
Sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to:
- Suggestive or obscene letters, notes, invitations, derogatory comments, slurs, jokes, epithets, assault, touching, impeding or blocking movement, leering, gestures, or display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures, or cartoons.
- Continuing to express sexual interest after being informed that the interest is unwelcome. (Reciprocal attraction between peers is not considered sexual harassment.)
- Implying or withholding support for an appointment, promotion, or change of assignment; suggesting that a poor performance report will be prepared; suggesting that probation will be failed; implying or actually withholding grades earned or deserved; or suggesting that a scholarship recommendation or college application will be denied.
- Coercive sexual behavior used to control, influence, or affect the career, salary, and/or work environment of another employee; or engaging in coercive sexual behavior to control, influence, or affect the educational opportunities, grades, and/or learning environment of a student.
- Offering or granting favors or educational employment benefits, such as grades or promotions, favorable performance evaluations, favorable assignments, favorable duties or shifts, recommendations, reclassification, etc, in exchange for sexual favors.

Anyone who is subject to sexual harassment, or who knows of the occurrence of such conduct, should inform the compliance officer, as provided in Board Policy A-0311.

A substantiated charge against a staff member in the District shall subject such staff member to disciplinary action.

A substantiated charge against a student in the District shall subject that student to disciplinary action, which may include suspension or expulsion.

All matters involving sexual harassment complaints will remain confidential to the extent possible.

STUDENT DRESS CODE (J-2361)
The Lovington Municipal Schools recognize that parents are primarily responsible for students’ dress and general appearance. However, student behavior and academic expectations are influenced by dress and grooming. Therefore, the following requirements for student dress District Wide, Pre-kindergarten through grade twelve [PK-12]) shall be based upon the following principles:

Clothing shall be designed, constructed, and worn in a proper manner and shall not be vulgar, indecent, or suggestive.
Clothing or attire that is vulgar or depicts indecent slogans, pictures/graphics, or phrases that may depict a sexual meaning or illegal substance, including gang affiliation, will not be permitted. This includes but is not limited to bracelets or shirts with phrases that depict “gender-specific anatomy”.
The general appearance of the student and his/her clothing shall not interfere with the instructional program.
Clothing and general appearance of the student shall not constitute a health or safety hazard.
Cleanliness of body and clothing will be expected of all students.
The hair shall be clean and well-groomed.
Make-up and hair shall be worn in a fashion that is not disruptive to the educational process.
Skirts or shorts shall not be higher than 6 inches from the top of the knee (as a student bends his or her knee on a chair). Pants with holes in them higher than the required 6-inch limit shall have leggings underneath. Leggings/tights shall be permitted if the garment over the leggings covers both the front and back of the student’s pelvic girdle.
Appropriate footwear shall be part of regular attire.
Students shall not wear chains which are designed to be worn on wallets, pants, or as dog collars, including collars with spikes.
Body piercing will be allowed, with the exception of gauging or bars, provided they do not create a distraction or safety hazard.
Pants shall be appropriately sized at the waistband and shall be worn above the hip bones. Sagging pants or shorts worn below the waist are prohibited.
Belts must be the appropriate length and shall be contained in belt loops. The tip of the belt may not hang unless it does not reach the next loop.
Pajamas or sleepwear shall not be worn. (No house shoes)
Sunglasses shall not be permitted in the buildings without a medical note filed in the principal’s office.
Sleeveless shirts shall be at least 2” at the top of the shoulder. A bare midriff is prohibited. Tops/shirts shall be of sufficient length to cover the top of the pants, shorts, and skirts, even while sitting. The neck opening on any type of shirt may not exceed the equivalent of the second button below the collar of a dress shirt. Undershirts are required for any see-through, low-cut neck or arm opening, tank top, shirt, or blouse. Basketball jersey-type shirts shall not be worn unless a ¼ sleeve T-shirt is worn underneath.
Hair and facial hair shall be kept neat, clean, and well-groomed. Beards and mustaches shall be kept well-shaped.

There will be certain days during the school year that will allow for dress attire other than what is addressed in the dress code. These dates will be announced.

On certain occasions, a more stringent dress code may be enforced. For example, shorts will not be acceptable at special events such as graduation, awards ceremonies, installations, or other events so determined by the administration and/or activity sponsor. Also, Prom is a semi-formal occasion that requires special dress.

Failure to follow the dress code as written above will cause the student(s) to be assigned disciplinary consequences by an administrator. Items in violation may be confiscated. If students are sent home for dress code violations, unexcused absences will be issued for the school time missed. Repeat violators could face consequences up to expulsion from the Lovington Municipal School system.

TARDIES (J-1561)

Secondary student (6th-12th grade): Arriving to any one (1) of the class periods during the school day after the scheduled tardy bell has rung. Elementary student (K-5th grade): Arriving after the official start time.
Secondary students with NO tardies in any one given class in a nine (9) weeks period will be rewarded with 1.5 points added to his/her 9-weeks grade. A student with only ONE (1) tardy will be rewarded with 1.0 point added to his/her 9-week grade. A student with TWO (2) tardies will be rewarded with 0.5 points added to his/her 9-weeks grade.
A secondary student (6th-12th grade) may be tardy to any one (1) class, two (2) times per nine (9)-week period, and no action will be taken. When a student receives three tardies in any one (1) class, the student will be sent to the office, and the school administrator will take appropriate disciplinary action. Additional tardies will result in further disciplinary action taken by the school administrator. Tardiness of ten (10) minutes or more to a class (6th-12th grade) is considered an unexcused absence. The teacher shall notify the student when such incidents are recorded as absences.

TRUANCY
Truancy is defined as the deliberate absence from school without the prior knowledge or consent of the parents and/or without proper school authorization. Administrative Action may be administered by the Principal/Assistant Principal.

DRUG ALCOHOL AND TOBACCO/NICOTINE FREE SCHOOLS (A-0750)
The use, possession and distribution of commercial tobacco and nicotine products, electronic delivery devices, alcoholic beverages, mood-altering substances and illicit drugs is prohibited on school property and at off-campus school-sponsored events by all persons, including but not limited to following locations:

• School grounds.

• School buildings.

• School parking lots.

• School playing fields.

• School buses and other District vehicles.

• Off-campus school-sponsored events.

The foregoing products or activities are prohibited at all times, including non-school hours. The meaning of the terms included herein shall be as provided in New Mexico Administrative Code 6.12.4.1 through 6.12.4.9.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL BY STUDENTS (J-3050)
The nonmedical use, possession, distribution, delivery or sale of drugs or counterfeit substances on school property or at school events is prohibited. Nonmedical is defined as "a purpose other than the prevention, treatment, or cure of an illness or disabling condition" consistent with accepted practices of the medical profession.

Students in violation of the provisions of the above paragraph shall be subject to removal from school property and shall be subject to prosecution in accordance with the provisions of the law.

Students attending school in the District who are in violation of the provisions of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary actions in accordance with the provisions of school rules and/or regulations.

For purposes of this policy, "drugs" shall include, but not be limited to:

• All dangerous controlled substances prohibited by law.

• All alcoholic beverages.

• Any prescription or over-the-counter drug, except those for which permission to use in school has been granted pursuant to Board policy.

• Hallucinogenic substances.

• Inhalants.

Any student who violates the above may be subject to warning, reprimand, probation, suspension, or expulsion, in addition to other civil and criminal prosecution.

GENERAL DISCIPLINE (J-4611)
The following are prohibited activities: criminal or delinquent acts; gang-related activities; sexual harassment; disruptive conduct; refusal to identify self; and refusal to cooperate with school personnel, harassment, bullying, and/or cyberbullying.

A student may be subject to disciplinary action when the student engages in the above or those below:

Criminal or delinquent acts;
Gang related activity;
Sexual harassment
Disruptive conduct;
Refusal to identify self
Refusal to cooperate with school personnel; and
Harassment, bullying or cyberbullying

A student may be subject to disciplinary action when the student engages in the above or those below:

Engages in conduct that is disorderly, i.e., intentionally causing public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm, or recklessly creating a risk thereof, by:
Fighting or engaging in violent behavior.
Making unreasonable noise.
Using abusive or obscene language or gestures.
Obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
Creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition by any act that serves no legitimate purpose.
Engages in conduct that is insubordinate, i.e., failing to comply with the lawful directions of a teacher, school administrator, or other school employee in charge of the student.
Endangers the safety, morals, health, or welfare of others by any act, including but not limited to:
- Selling, distributing, using, or possessing alcohol, drugs, or other controlled substances or drug paraphernalia.
- Selling, distributing, using, or possessing weapons, fireworks, or other dangerous instruments or contraband.
- Selling, using, or possessing obscene materials.
- Using profane, vulgar, or abusive language (including ethnic slurs).
- Gambling.
- Hazing.
- Engaging in lewd behavior;
- Engaging in harassing, cyberbullying or bullying of another student.
- Engages in any of the following forms of academic misconduct:
- Lateness for, missing, or leaving school or class without permission or excuse.
- Cheating (including but not limited to copying, using unauthorized assistance in any form, illegally obtaining tests in advance, substituting for a test-taker, and other forms of unauthorized collusion).
- Plagiarism.
Engages in conduct violative of the Board's rules and regulations for the maintenance of public order on school property.
Uses electronic communication directed at a student, that is published with the intent that it be seen by or disclosed to that student and that substantially interferes with the student's ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by the public school.
Has a record of excessive absenteeism.
Is believed to have or actually has committed a crime.

USE OF CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES IN SCHOOLS (J-3150)

The Board prohibits the use of wireless communication devices by students during instructional hours and class time.

As used in this policy, "wireless communication device" means a portable electronic device capable of transmitting voice, text or data, including but not limited to a: 1) cellular phone, smartphone, smart glasses, smart devices, and/or smartwatch; 2) tablet computer; 3) laptop computer; or 4) gaming device.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, a school principal may grant approval for possession and use of a wireless communication device by a student during class time or instructional hours.

School principals may also make rules, with the approval of the Superintendent, to restrict student use of wireless communication devices during non-instructional hours within school buildings and programs, on school property, in school vehicles, and/or while students are attending school-sponsored activities. Other than as set forth herein, nothing in this policy prohibits the complete prohibition of student use or possession of wireless communication devices during the school day and/or at times during which the District has supervisory authority over students, or a school requirement that wireless communication devices be stored in a designated storage area inaccessible to students. Rules related to student use of electronic wireless communication devices during non-instructional hours may diﬀer between the schools, locations within schools, times of day, grade level, programs, and activities, and individual students may have device privileges further limited as a consequence for violation of school rules. School principals shall notify students, staﬀ and parents/guardians of applicable rules for the use of wireless communication devices within their buildings and programs.

Violations of this policy or any school rule related to wireless communication devices shall result in disciplinary action and may result in conﬁscation of the wireless communication device. In such event, school oﬃcials may determine whether to withhold and not return the conﬁscated device until a conference has been held with the student’s parent/guardian. School oﬃcials who conﬁscate a wireless communication device for violation of this policy or school rules shall not search the contents of the device without reasonable suspicion that a search will reveal evidence of a violation of school rules or the law, and then only in compliance with the student’s constitutional or other rights and as provided by policy.

The right to use an electronic device for learning during classroom instruction will be permitted to only those who agree to the agreements within this handbook, Board Policy, and the Responsible Use of Technology Agreement and AI in Education Guidelines.

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

GRADING PRACTICES (I-6711)
The subject grade should be based on student mastery of the standard content of the course.

The District will establish a uniform system of grading. Content of the course shall be set up to be measured by numerical percentages which are then transferred to letter equivalents. The following scale will serve as a guide for the distribution of grades but reasonable alternative letter grades may be approved at the District level:

90% - 100% = A
80% - 89% = B
70% - 79% = C
60% - 69% = D
Below 60% = F
The following should be observed in implementing a grading system:

The grading system should be consistent within the class for the entire year.
The student should understand the system thoroughly, such as the content on which the grade for the course depends, the weight attached to various phases of the material, the manner in which the letter grade is devised, and the meaning of the final letter grade which is sent home as a report to the parent.

REPORT CARDS AND RECORDS
At a minimum, an average of two (2) grades per week will be kept in the teacher's grade book for each subject (language arts, mathematics, science-health, social studies) in numerical values. The average for the nine (9) weeks will also be recorded in the grade book in numerical values.

Grade reports to the parents are made on a nine (9) week basis. Report cards include an explanation of the system of marks used. Before cards are sent out each nine (9) week period, the teacher should explain the marking system to the pupils.

Cards are sent home according to a schedule that is developed at the beginning of the school year.

Grades A, B, C, D, or F are given in numerical percentages, in the following subjects for grades three (3) through five (5):
Language Arts
Mathematics
Social Studies
Science-Health

Grades A, B, C, D, or F, in numerical percentages, are given in the following subjects in grades one (1) and two (2):
Language Arts
Math

KINDERGARTEN REPORTING
Kindergarten (K) teachers will not use letter grades but will report progress in a standard-based system using S, U, and N.

First Grade will not use letter grades/numerical percentages A, B, C, D & F in the 1st nine weeks. S, U, and N will be used 1st nine weeks.

Teachers may use additional reporting forms if they so choose, and conferences are encouraged.

EXAMINATIONS FOR SECONDARY STUDENTS
At the end of each semester, a comprehensive semester exam will be given in each class on a schedule that will be announced at least one week in advance.

NINE-WEEKS exams may be given at a time scheduled by the campus administration. Any deviation MUST be approved in advance by the principal. Parents are required to conference with the principal prior to the test schedule if an alternate test date is being requested.
- Nine weeks grades are determined by counting the daily average at 4/5ths and the nine weeks exam as 1/5th. Report cards will be delivered electronically.
Semester examinations will be given only on the day and time as scheduled by the principal. Any deviation MUST be approved in advance by the principal. Parents are required to conference with the principal prior to the test schedule if an alternate test date is being requested.
- Report cards will be issued electronically at the end of each nine-week period. The semester grade is averaged by counting every nine weeks' grade as 2/5ths and the semester exam as 1/5th.
All students are required to take a semester exam. Any student who does not take a semester exam will not receive credit for that course.
Students will not be allowed to repeat a nine-week examination.

LATE WORK
All classwork and homework is due when the teacher calls for it. When students are absent they will have the same number of days to make up assignments as the number of days absent. Students are responsible for getting their makeup work from each of their teachers and turning it in within the required timeframe. A zero will be given for a missing assignment.

WATER SAFETY GUIDANCE

New Mexico House Bill 532 (HB0532), enacted in 2025, requires school districts to provide water safety instruction to students in kindergarten through grade twelve beginning in the 2025-2026 school year. This law intends to ensure that all students acquire fundamental knowledge and skills related to water safety, to reduce preventable injuries and fatalities associated with water-related accidents.

Lovington is a landlocked community with no access to public pools or public access to aquatic training facilities. Due to these limitations, students within our district do not have the opportunity to participate in formal swim lessons. In alignment with HB0532 and considering local resources and conditions, Lovington Municipal Schools will implement the American Red Cross “Water Safety” Units of Study for all students.

Curriculum Details:

The American Red Cross General Water Safety curriculum is a nationally recognized and evidence-based program designed to teach students how to recognize, avoid, and respond to water hazards.
Units of Study:
- K-5
  - Being Water Smart - The Basics
- 6-12
  - General Water Safety
The curriculum does not include in-water instruction, which aligns with the accessibility constraints in our region.

Implementation Plan:

Lessons will take place during regular school hours and be embedded within appropriate health, physical education, homeroom, and/or science instructional time as determined by each campus.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to reinforce water safety practices at home and during family recreational activities. Parents wishing to review the instructional materials may visit the Safety Resources section on the Lovington Municipal Schools website.

SECONDARY (Grades 7-12) INFORMATION

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AGREEMENT
As a student of the Lovington Municipal Schools athletic/activity program, it is extremely important that I maintain a good public image as well as set a good example. I shall contribute my best effort to the success of our programs. I agree to conduct myself according to the Lovington Extra-Curricular Activities Policy. I realize that in case I do not live up to this agreement, I could be removed from the activity in which I am involved, in accordance with the following.

I shall represent the school in a positive manner, promoting good sportsmanship.
I shall be respectful and courteous to opponents and their supporters, as well as any guests.
I shall adhere to the rules in our student handbook, athletic handbook, and school board policy handbook.
I shall not be in the room of the opposite sex.
I shall be on time whenever time is involved.
I shall meet all eligibility standards.
I shall be responsible for all equipment entrusted to my care and return it to the school in the best possible condition. I understand that I am financially liable for lost or damaged equipment.
I shall dress in accordance with the school dress code.
If I am removed from the activity/team for disciplinary reasons, or quit the activity/team, I shall not be allowed to participate in a different activity, until the activity I am removed from has been completed.
I shall notify the coach prior to missing practice. I understand missing practice for unexcused reasons will result in disciplinary actions.
I shall ride in school provided transportation to and from all contests, unless released to parents.
If I am involved in a fight before, during or after an event, I shall be suspended from the next specified event for that activity. If I leave the bench or sideline when a fight occurs, I shall be suspended from the next athletic contest or dismissed from the team.
A student shall be in full attendance on the day of a scheduled event or he/she shall not be allowed to participate. (Exemptions are; with Medical, Professional, or Legal Documentation, as approved by the building administrator)
I shall not possess, distribute, or use tobacco, and/or vape products. Tobacco and Vaping Policy will be enforced.

**The student and parent/guardian waive any right to privacy concerning the use of illegal drugs and alcohol that might be obtained from law enforcement agencies, JPO agencies, or other reliable sources.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ELIGIBILITY
In order for a student to be eligible for all extra-curricular activities, the student must have maintained a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale and not have failed any class from the previous semester's grading period. Eligibility is based on semester grades. No F’s allowed for eligibility.

Eligibility for student participation in extracurricular activities is determined by the New Mexico Activities Association's by-laws that are developed to create a level playing field for all student athletes. Changes to enrollment, home residence, academic standing, and family status are some of the factors that determine student eligibility. Parents/ guardians are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations associated with student eligibility PRIOR to making changes to their student's status. Transferring schools may impact a student’s opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities (New Mexico Activities Association By-Laws: https://www.nmact.org/nmaa-handbook/).

GUIDANCE COUNSELING
The Guidance Office is available to students in grades 7-12 to assist them in making their school careers successful and in making plans for the future. Students are encouraged to use this resource so that their interests and needs may be met. This office is the link between students and administration. The office will handle the scheduling of classes, registration, next-step plans, student records, credit checks, and schedule changes. Counselors are assigned to cohorts at the high school.

IDs
Secondary students must have their school-issued ID on them, visible at all times. A student not having their school-issued ID visible will be subject to consequences.

GANG-RELATED ACTIVITY
For the purpose of District policy, a gang of three (3) or more people who:

Interact together to the exclusion of others;
Claim a territory or area;
Have a name;
Have rivals/enemies; and
Exhibit antisocial behavior – often associated with crime or a threat to the community. The type of dress, apparel, activities, act, behavior or manner, or grooming displayed, reflected, or participated in by the student shall not:
Lead school officials to believe that such behavior, apparel, activities, acts, or other attributes are gang-related or would disrupt or interfere with the school environment or activity and/or educational objectives;
Present a physical safety hazard to self, students, staff members, or other employees.
Create an atmosphere in which the well-being of a student, staff member, or other person is hindered by undue pressure, behavior, intimidation, overt gestures, or threat of violence, or;
Imply gang membership or affiliation by written communication, marks, drawing, painting, design, gang gestures, and emblem upon any school or personal property or on one’s person.

Any student wearing, carrying, or displaying gang paraphernalia and/or exhibiting behavior or gestures that symbolize gang membership, or causing and/or participating in activities that intimidate or adversely affect the educational activities of another student, or the orderly operation of the schools, shall be subject to disciplinary action.

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION
Public displays of affection are prohibited on school property. Students who display affectionate behavior, such as kissing, hugging, and all other affectionate physical contact will be counseled and parents shall be informed. Consequences may be administered.

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CLASSES
LHS offers Advanced Placement AP courses, which are college-level courses. AP exams are scored on a scale of 1-5, with a possibility of receiving college credit and/or scholarships. Any student enrolled in an Advanced Placement class may take the Advanced Placement Exam at the end of the year on the date determined by the College Board. The cost of the exam is the responsibility of the student and must be paid prior to the date the exam order is placed by the district. The cost of the exam is non-refundable. The students and guardians will be required to sign a contract at the beginning of the course.

BILINGUAL SEAL
The Bilingual Seal Pathway will be presented to incoming freshmen. Upon qualifying for the Bilingual Seal Program, their senior year, the student will be provided the District Bilingual Seal Procedural Guide. Once all requirements are obtained through the course, the student will receive the BiLiteracy Seal on their diploma and transcript as well as the Bi-Literacy Stole to wear at Graduation.

CHECK OUT PROCEDURES
If a student must leave campus during the day, the following procedures must be followed: The parent will pick up the student at the front office or send a note requesting the release of the student. The parent may also call the office in the event of an emergency. The student must sign the check-out sheet if leaving during the school day and sign in if returning. Failure to sign out could result in truancy and may be filed as such.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS (I-7350)
To receive a diploma from Lovington Schools, students must:
• Earn the specified minimum number of credits in the required courses.
• Earn the minimum number of credits in elective courses.

For more information regarding graduation requirements review Board Policy (I-7350).

HONOR GRADUATES
A student must complete all of the senior year in Lovington High School to be eligible for "Graduation with Honors". The number of Honor Students is to be computed on a percentage of the total graduates with a ratio of one (1) per twenty-five students and it is computed on the 100th day of school. These Honor Graduates will wear a white gown at Graduation.

LOCKERS
Lockers are provided as a convenience to secondary students. Students are responsible for keeping their lockers clean and orderly. No decorations are allowed outside of the locker. Students are advised not to share their locker combinations with others. Locker assignments, combinations, and changes will be handled through the office. The lockers belong to the school. The Administration has the right to search the lockers and its contents at any time.

LUNCH PROCEDURES
Lovington High School has an open campus for students who are Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors. This means students may leave the campus at lunch. The school cannot be responsible for supervision of the students who leave campus. Freshman students will have a closed campus and therefore will not be allowed to leave campus during lunch.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
National Honor Society (NHS) is a national program recognizing students who display exemplary scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Membership in the NHS is one of the highest honors a high school student can receive.

Charter requirements:
- 3.8 G.P.A.
- At least one semester attendance at LHS.
Students will be notified of eligibility to apply for membership through an application process.
Students must complete one semester of service projects equal to 14 hours before induction. These students will be called probationary members until the service requirement is met.
Upon receiving student's application, the five-member faculty council reviews the applications and decides who is accepted for induction in to the NHS
The five-member faculty council will be determined by the Principal.
Students who have been found to be eligible for NHS, but are not inducted into the Society, are not members unless prior arrangements have been made with the NHS advisor.
Students will pay $2.00 dues prior to the induction ceremony.
If at the end of any grading period the student falls below the standard for membership, he/she will be placed on probation. If the grade or disciplinary situation is not corrected by the end of the following grading period, the student will be removed from the Society. Once a student is dismissed, he/she is never eligible for membership in the National Honor Society again. If a Senior student receives an “F” they will be placed on probation. It will be determined at the end of the fall semester if the student has met the requirements to remain in the NHS and if the Stole of NHS will be worn during Graduation in the spring. If however, a senior student receives an “F” in the spring semester, they will be removed from NHS and will not wear the NHS Stole during the Graduation Ceremony.
Violations of school regulations and policies can result in immediate dismissal as a member of the NHS.

PROM

Students will be required to pay for entrance into the prom.
Prom tickets are non-refundable.
Drinking of alcoholic beverages at the prom by students is not permitted.
Sponsors will consist of faculty, and administrative staff.
The sponsors on duty will remove students that are loitering outside the building.
Lovington Schools juniors and seniors are invited to attend the prom. Juniors and seniors may bring a date provided the following guidelines are met.
Dates may not be younger than a 10th grader currently enrolled in Lovington Schools and cannot be older than 20 years of age. Proof of age must be shown and permission must be approved by the Principal.
Dates who are not Lovington Schools juniors or seniors must be approved by administration prior to the prom. There will be a sign up sheet in the office.

GUIDELINES FOR SCHEDULE CHANGES

During the week of enrollment, you may request schedule changes according to the posted schedule. Once school has begun, changes will only be made if they are considered to be an emergency. However, it is imperative that you choose carefully in your original selection, since changes may only be considered if they meet the following conditions:

Changes are to take place on the scheduled dates according to your classification.
Failure of a prerequisite course or failure to register for a prerequisite course.
Credit needed for graduation and the course cannot be taken in a later semester.
To repeat a previously failed course that will be unavailable in a later semester.
Course needed for a planned college or vocational program, which cannot be taken in a later semester.
Placement in an inappropriate level of a subject according to ability.
Parent permission is required for all schedule changes concerning required classes.

***** While waiting for a schedule change, students must continue to attend the original class or they will be counted absent.

STUDENT PARKING REGULATIONS
All students will be required to park in the WEST parking lot. Students are not allowed to park on Ave. K or in the lot across the street from LHS.

Students are required to park within the designated lines in designated areas only. No parking in fire lanes or handicapped spaces without appropriate permits.

All students must obtain a parking permit, of the current year, which must be placed in the front lower right windshield. All other parking permits shall be removed. All students must park their car and immediately leave the student parking lot. No student will be permitted to sit in the car during the school day.

LHS assumes NO responsibility for your car or its contents. Be sure to lock your car, and do not leave valuables in it.

Updated: 9/2/26

Student Handbooks