Student Handbook

PiM Arts High School takes the position that time spent in class is paramount to learning. To that end, the following expectations related to attendance, grades and behavior must be met in order for students to participate in ALL after school and evening activities:

• Students must be in attendance at school for two consecutive full blocks on the day of the activity (not including Advisory)
• Students who are not passing classes will be placed on an Academic Improvement Plan as a condition to participate in any production and until they are passing. Students must be passing all classes to participate in Clubs (ex., Table Top Games, Anime, etc).
• Students must have no unserved detention hours

PiM’s Activity Participation Policy applies to all rehearsals, performances, gallery showings, Senior Capstone rehearsals and performances, and 5th block clubs and activities.

PiM Arts High School uses block scheduled classes with four 82 minute periods a day. In a block system, missing one class is equivalent to missing two instructional days. Student attendance is a priority at PiM Arts High School. Minn. Stat. §120A.22, the Minnesota Compulsory Instruction Law states that school aged children must attend school every day and on tim eunless prevented by illness, religious observance, family emergency or loss of a family member. Please note that parents/guardians may excuse up to 4 absences per quarter due to illness. If absences due to illness exceed that number, we will request a note from the student’s primary physician or mental health care provider in order to excuse additional illness-related absences. Please note that missing the bus, traffic, oversleeping, babysitting for siblings or transporting siblings to school are not considered “lawful excuses” for arriving late to school or missing school.

When a student accumulates3 unexcused partial or full day absences, they are designated as a “Continuing Truant” under the law and schools are required to notify parents/guardians of this designation. As mandated reporters, PiM staff are required by law to report “Habitual Truancy” to parents and the resident county Attorney’s Office. Minn. Stat. §260C.007, subd. 19 defines “Habitual Truancy” as a child under the age of 17 who is absent from school without a lawful excuse for two or more blocks on 7 school days and who has not lawfully withdrawn from school. This report is reviewed by the resident county and could result in a Juvenile Court truancy hearing.

15-Day Drop Rule

Minn Statute 126C.05, subd 8, part (a) requires that a charter school drop any student from its enrollment when that student has missed 15 consecutive days of school, regardless of the nature of the absences. If a student intends to return to PiM after being dropped from enrollment, they must formally re-enroll by 1) completing a new PiM enrollment form; 2) scheduling a re-enrollment meeting with the School Counselor and/or Director of Teaching & Learning prior to attending classes to discuss schedule/credits, etc; and 3) by attending no less than two full consecutive blocks (not including Advisory) on their first day back.

Re-enrollment for a student dropped for non-attendance will depend on space available.

Parents/guardians will receive an automated call if a student is absent from class unless parents have excused the absence by calling the PiM main office at (952) 224-1340, emailing attendance@pimartshs.org, or by sending a note to school with your student.

PiM Arts High School Policy for Unexcused Absences & Unexcused Tardies

Unexcused Absences: Teachers may refuse to accept work from a student as a result of an unexcused absence which may result in a score of ‘0’ for the class each day the absence is unexcused. The consequences for accumulated unexcused absences are:

• 3rd Unexcused Absence: Director of Student Life will send mandatory notification to parent/guardian designating the student as a “Continuing Truant”.
• 4th Unexcused Absence: Director of Student Life will request a phone or in-person meeting with parent/guardian and student to discuss student attendance concerns and/or to develop an attendance plan.
• 7th Unexcused Absence: Director of Student Life files Educational Neglect/Truancy Report with the resident county truancy office. Director of Student Life will send mandatory letter advising parents of “Habitual Truant” designation.

Students who arrive to any class after 41 minutes (halfway through the block) without a valid excuse will be marked as an unexcused absence. Students who are out of class for excused reasons (e.g., appointment with School Counselor, field trip for another class) must work with their teachers to remain caught up.

Loss of Credit Due to Attendance: Section IIB, part D, subd. (a) of the PiM Arts High School Attendance policy states that students not in class for any reason are considered absent. A student can lose credit in academic and arts area classes when they have accumulated a total of twelve (12) combined excused or unexcused absences (15 combined absences for students with 504 Plans or IEPs when absences are related to their disability). Students will receive a No Grade (NG) or F on transcripts when credit is lost due to attendance issues alone.

When a student is at risk of losing credit due to attendance, parents will be notified and a meeting will be scheduled with the student’s teacher, and the Director of Teaching & Learning. The student and their parents have5 school days after the meeting to submit a letter of appeal which may include additional supporting documents from a physician or mental health provider. Please refer to Appendix A for clarification of how absences are defined and whether or not they count towards Truancy and/or the above mentioned 12 or 15 absences.

Unexcused Tardies: It is imperative for students to be on time to their classes. For every five (5) unexcused tardies, a student will be given one unexcused absence.

Students checking in late (after 7:50am) or leaving early (before 2:30pm) during the school day must sign in and out at the main office. Students leaving early must have a parent sign them out of the building or the parent should contact the main office to give their permission for their student to leave early.

Absences Due to Alternate School/Family Activities

Students must obtain and complete a “Pre-Approved Absence Form”prior to missing school due to absences that MN does not consider “legal”. Some examples of these types of absences are interscholastic competitions and events, auditions/rehearsals/performances, college/university visits, student recognition and award ceremonies, driver’s exams and family travel. Students can obtain this form from the main office. Students are to take the form to each of their teachers to make a plan for work that will be missed while they are absent. Once this form has been returned to the Director of Student Life with the required signatures, and a parent has called the main office to report the absence(s), we can excuse these absences to avoid families reaching truancy.

Please note that if we have concerns about a student’s overall attendance or academic standing, we reserve the right to designate the absences as unexcused.

For clarification of how absences are defined and whether or not they count towards Truancy and/or the aforementioned 12 or 15 absences, please refer to Appendix A for examples of Unexcused, Limited Excused and Excused Absences.

For ALL absences, it is the student’s responsibility to obtain assignments and complete makeup work as specified by the teacher. Parents and students should make every effort to schedule appointments outside of the school day. Each day of absence in our four block schedule represents two lost days of instruction – a significant loss of learning time.

Absences for Volunteer Opportunities

Many of our students participate in volunteer opportunities such as working voter polls, and opportunities for social engagement such as social justice demonstrations. To encourage this, students are allowed up to 2 excused absences per year specifically for community engagement. In order for these absences to be approved, students must complete a Pre-Approved Absence form specifying the activity they are engaging in, and we must receive parent permission. Students may pick up a Pre-Approved Absence form from the front office.

Parents/guardians will be contacted if a student is absent from class unless parents have reported the absence by calling the PiM office at (952) 224-1340, emailing attendance@pimartshs.org, or by sending a note to school with your student.

In order to maintain an environment that is focused on learning, creativity, relationship building and community, PiM Arts High School has a school-wide expectation that upon entering a classroom, all cell phones, texting devices, laptops/notebooks and music players are to be silenced/powered off. Devices must be put away in the student’s bag/backpack or placed in the location designated by their classroom teacher. Only with explicit permission from the classroom teacher may students use their devices for any reason during class time, including checking the time. Students may respectfully use their devices during classroom breaks, arrival/departure times, passing times, and in the cafeteria during meals.

PiM Arts High School staff respectfully request that parents refrain from contacting your students on their cell phones during the school day (texting and calling) as it distracts your student and those around them from their learning. Please contact the main office in the case of an emergency and we will pull your student from class immediately. We ask that you use your discretion as to what constitutes an emergency and what can wait until your child is at home with family.

All students will spend the first week of each new school year reviewing the Cell Phones/Electronic Devices Policy.After the first week of the school year, students are expected to be familiar with this policy and the following consequences. Students will not receive any additional warnings after the first week of school. If students are found to be using cell phones or other electronic devices in violation of this policy, the device will be confiscated and given to the Director of Student Life and returned to the student at the end of the day. Please note that infractions are cumulative, NOT per class. Students who misuse their devices will face the following consequences: 

• 1st time: Device is confiscated for the remainder of the school day. Parent notification and 1 hour of detention.
• 2nd time: Device is confiscated for the remainder of school day and parents are notified. Student must turn the device into the Director of Student Life at the start of the school day and may retrieve it at the end of the school day for 15 school days.
• 3rd time: Device is confiscated for the remainder of the school day and parents are notified. Student must turn the device into the Director of Student Life at the start of the school day and may retrieve it at the end of the school day for 30 school days.

**Students who continue to misuse their devices may be asked to refrain from bringing their device(s) to school for the remainder of the school year.**

Please remember that PiM Arts High School is not responsible for, nor will it investigate any lost, stolen or damaged electronic devices brought onto school grounds, and encourages students to leave them home whenever possible.

Students are required to have a parking permit to park on campus. Student parking is available on the west side of the building in the purple parking spaces. The lot is regularly monitored for safety by the Eden Prairie Police Department and PiM Arts High School staff. All student vehicles must display a PiM Arts High School parking sticker in the windshield or risk being towed at the owner’s expense. Yearly parking permits are sold in the main office at a cost of $200.00 per year or $100.00 per semester.

Students holding a parking permit must abide by the following expectations:

• Must display permits on car.
• Must park in the student designated area (purple parking spaces).
• Must not drive carelessly or with excess speed in school parking lot or other school grounds.
• Must not transport unauthorized students off campus.

PiM Arts High School reserves the right to revoke a yearly permit without a refund based on safety concerns, behavior, attendance and/or academic progress.

Paramount to maintaining a community conducive to artistic expression and academic success is creating an environment where students feel safe and supported, and where they feel heard. When a student is having a conflict with another student, sees behavior that violates school expectations, or becomes aware of any illegal activity involving a PiM student, the concern should be reported immediately to the Director of Student Life, Ms. Montgomery (tania.montgomery@pimartshs.org). An investigation will be initiated to gather information and to attempt to resolve the issue in the best interest of all involved.

If a student has a concern with a teacher around classroom management, curriculum, or grading practices, they should first address it with that teacher. If the situation hasn’t been resolved to your satisfaction, you may escalate it to the Director of Teaching & Learning, Ms. Schauwitzer (cschauwitzer@pimartshs.org).

If you or your student has a concern with administrative staff, please contact PiM’s Executive Director, Matthew McFarlane (mmcfarlane@pimartshs.org).

Reports may also be made anonymously by leaving a message on the PiM Tip Line at 952-807-9535.

18-Year-Old-Students

Students who turn 18 years old while enrolled at PiM are subject to the same expectations as students who are minors. All absences, late arrivals, and early departures must be excused by a parent/guardian and may not be excused by the student. Students living independently or considered homeless under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act should discuss their status with the Director of Student Life or the School Counselor.

Closed Campus

PiM Arts High School is a closed campus. Students may not leave the building during the school day without prior authorization from a parent. Students found outside of the building or off school premises without authorization will be subject to a search of their person and personal belongings, as well as the school discipline policy. A student’s car is also subject to a search when a student is found to be off campus without prior authorization. Because we are a closed campus and for security reasons, students are not allowed to order food to be delivered to the school during the school day. With the exception of food delivered by a parent/legal guardian, any food delivery for a student will be held in the main office until the end of the school day. If students are staying after school they may order food and are expected to give the delivery person their phone number and must be waiting for the delivery.

Conferences

Parent-Teacher Conferences are held four times throughout the school year. Each quarter parents/guardians are provided an email link to sign up for 10-minute sessions with each of their student’s classroom and Advisory teachers. We encourage all families to schedule parent-teacher conferences. Parents may contact individual teachers for a conference at any time during the school year by contacting the teacher directly.

Contacting Your Student During the School Day & Telephone Messages

Although students are expected to have phones silenced/turned off and put away, we respectfully request that parents refrain from calling or texting your student on their cell phone/texting device during the school day as this causes a disruption to their learning process. Please contact the main office at 952-224-1340 if you need to get an urgent message to your student or if you have an emergency. Feel free to text/call your student during passing times and their lunch periods.

Daily Announcements

Announcements are broadcast daily on the intercom system throughout the building during Advisory. They are displayed on the large television in the Alumnae Commons, and are also posted on the school website. Announcements must be submitted to Mr. Leaf no later than the end of block 1 to be added to the next day’s announcements. Student announcements must be approved by a staff member.

Department/Class Field Trips

PiM Arts High School takes several department/class field trips each school year. Field trip days are considered school days and attendance is required. Please note that students who attend a field trip but haven’t paid or requested a scholarship will have a fee applied to their school account.

Detentions

Detentions are assigned for a variety of behavior infractions and violations of school expectations. They are assigned in 1 hour increments. Detention is held Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays after school from 2:30pm to 3:30pm in the designated detention room. If students have scheduled time after school to work with a teacher, they may apply that time to any outstanding detention hours.

Students who have been assigned a detention must serve it within 5 school days or they will be placed on a half-day In-School Suspension. It is the student’s responsibility to schedule and serve their detentions. Students may not participate in after school activities, Clubs or rehearsals until all outstanding detentions have been served. Please note that parents will be advised via email and/or Infinite Campus Messenger of detentions as they are assigned.

During detention, students are prohibited from listening to music or using any electronic devices (i.e., cell phones, laptops). Students can check out a PiM Chromebook if they are in need of a device to do school work.

Dress Code

At PiM Arts High School we encourage students to be creative in their dress and to express themselves artistically through their attire. The dress and grooming of a student becomes the concern of the school if it falls outside of any of the below parameters:

• State law requires that for health reasons, students must wear shoes and dress for existing weather and school conditions. (Please note: Students in dance classes are exempt from the shoe requirement while in the Dance hallway only.)
  Students must have private parts (including chests and buttocks) and undergarments covered completely at all times (underwear, boxer shorts, sport and regular bras). Please note that visible bra straps are acceptable.
• Clothing that includes words or pictures that are obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit, convey sexual innuendo, abuse or discrimination, or which promotes or advertises alcohol, chemicals, tobacco or any other products that are illegal for use by minors will not be allowed.
• Painted faces, disguises or grooming that limits, disguises, or prevents the identification of a student is prohibited. Students are not allowed to wear costume masks during the school day unless it is a prop necessary for an artistic activity or production.
• Sunglasses may not be worn in school (exceptions made for concussions and migraine headaches with permission from the health office).
• Clothing and other items or grooming in a manner that represents and/or promotes threats or hate groups will not be allowed.
• Metal chains and spiked jewelry or accessories that are considered a safety hazard or concern, must be removed when they pose a risk of danger (theatre movement classes or dance classes, for example).
• Clothing or other items that may reference gang affiliation are prohibited.

Students in violation of the dress code will be asked to cover or remove the offensive article of clothing. Further consequences may include parental notification, detention and suspension.

Drug-Free School/Drug-Free Workplace

PiM Arts High School is a drug-free community. Use of controlled substances, toxic substances, and alcohol before, during, or after school hours, including during evening and weekend performances and activities, is strictly prohibited. Students, parents, staff and visitors are asked to refrain from using any of the above substances while on the PiM Arts High School campus.

Emergency Drills for Fire, Tornadoes and Civic Defense

By law, schools must conduct regular safety and security drills. Emergency routes are posted throughout the school building and by every classroom door. Students must follow staff directives and listen carefully to all instructions during emergency procedures.

Emergency Information & Inclement Weather

Should it become necessary for the Executive Director to delay the start of school, close school early or close school for the day, families will be notified via the school website, phone/text, email and on local radio and television stations.

Family Emergency Data

Parents must update emergency data with the main office annually. Students who become ill or injured at school will not be released without parent/guardian authorization, regardless of age.

Fifth Block Activities

There are a variety of activities offered during fifth block (2:30-3:30pm). In addition to tutoring sessions with teachers on specific classroom assignments, clubs, auditions, rehearsals, performances, and gallery showings usually take place during fifth block and during evening hours. These activities will be posted within two weeks of the beginning of each quarter and will be communicated through daily student announcements. With the exception of academic related activities (i.e., tutoring, test make-up, etc.), students must meet the following expectations to be eligible to participate:

• Students must be in attendance in classes for two consecutive full blocks on the day of the activity (not including Advisory)
• Students who are not passing classes will be placed on an Academic Improvement Plan as a condition to participating in any production and until they are passing. Students must be passing all classes to participate in Clubs (ex., Table Top Games, Anime, etc).
• Students must have no outstanding detention hours

Food

Lancer Dining Services which caters our daily food program. Students may bring their own food for breakfast/lunch or eat a meal from the cafeteria. Because we are a closed campus and for security reasons, students are not allowed to order food to be delivered to the building during the school day. With the exception of food delivered by a parent/legal guardian, any food delivery for a student will not be allowed and will be refused at the front office. During 21-22 school year meals are free to all students so it is not necessary to order food to the building during the school day.

For students ordering food after 2:30pm, we ask that you make sure to provide your cell phone number, be available to meet the delivery person, and to consider leaving at least a $2 tip for delivery.

Hall Passes

All students are required to have a written pass from a staff member to be in the hallways, cafeteria, or commons during class time. Students without a pass will be escorted back to their classrooms. Students found in the hallway repeatedly without a pass or abusing a hall pass by being out of class longer than is acceptable, are considered skipping class and will be subject to detention or further consequences according to PiM’s discipline policy regarding skipping class/abuse of hall pass.

Health Expectations

Although consistent attendance at school is key to academic success, we ask that students stay at home when they are not feeling well. Students are required to stay at home if they are experiencing COVID-specific symptoms and are encouraged to get tested immediately. In general, students who have vomited or have a fever of 100 or higher, must stay home until they have been fever and symptom free for 24 hours without the use of medications.

I.D. Cards

Photo I.D. cards will be issued free of charge to all students. Students will need their I.D. card to use the Metro Transit student pass program, to obtain student ticket rates at PiM Arts High School performances, and student rates for outside events. A replacement card can be obtained from the School Office for a $5.00 charge.

Insurance

PiM Arts High School does not offer any insurance for student injury or property loss. Insurance is the responsibility of the parents/guardians.

Lockers

Lockers are school property and students are highly encouraged to use them for safety and security purposes. Students will be assigned an academic locker at the start of each school year without charge. Changing Room lockers will be assigned on an as needed basis prioritizing our Dance Technique classes. Students will be charged a non-refundable fee of $10.00 for lost locks. School officials may open and search lockers for reasonable cause and without student notification or consent. Students who prefer to bring their own locks from home must provide the Director of Student Life with their combination/key.

Meal Program

PiM Arts High School contracts with Lancer Dining Services to provide breakfast and lunch on all days that students are in attendance (breakfast only on Early Release days). Meals are free for all PiM students. Please contact Logan Bitz Daum at 952-224-1346 for questions related to the lunch program..

Students are welcome to bring their own snacks and meals. However, all students should refrain from selling food, beverages, gum, candy and other items (i.e., water bottles) for cash while on school property. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, only the bottle filling portion of building water fountains will be accessible. Students are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle. Reusable PiM water bottles are available for purchase through the PiM Boosters at boosters@pimartshs.org.

Medications (Prescription and Over-the-Counter)

All medication to be taken during the school day must be kept in the health office and must be dispensed by trained staff. Prescription AND over-the-counter medications must be in the original container with the name and contact information of the prescribing physician or nurse practitioner, and the student’s name clearly visible. Parent or guardian written permission is required for all medication administration during the school day. Students are only allowed to carry diabetes supplies, asthma inhalers, and epi-pens on their person during the school day. Contact the main office at 952-224-1340 with additional questions.

Parent Portal

Parents may register to access student information through the Parent Portal of our student database, Infinite Campus. The Parent Portal will provide parents access to attendance, schedules, grades and behavior information. Please contact the main office to set up your Username and Login, as well as to troubleshoot any problems you may have.

Preferred Names & Pronouns

At PiM Arts High School we embrace our students as they embark on their journey towards adulthood. We honor all students and staff who request to be addressed by the name and/or pronouns they identify with. Students who request to have their identity changed in Infinite Campus so that their schedules and diploma reflect their preferred identity are allowed to do so.

Schedule Changes & Add/Drop During the School Year

Changes to student schedules must be submitted no later than the end of the week before a new quarter begins. Students with concerns about their schedules must complete a “Schedule Change Request” form from the main office. This will generate an appointment with the School Counselor or the Director of Teaching & Learning. Not all requests will be honored. See the Course Catalog for more information about schedule changes and adding/dropping classes.

Searches

Searches of a student may be conducted if there is reasonable suspicion to include their person, bag, locker, and vehicle. Should contraband be discovered, PiM Arts High School’s School Resource Officer from the Eden Prairie Police Department will be contacted to issue a citation which may result in the student having to appear in court.

Security Measures

Areas of PiM Arts High School are subject to periodic closed-circuit television monitoring and recording. These include cameras located at each outside access door. All outside doors are locked from the outside during the school day for the protection of the students. Entry during the day must be through the main door via the intercom system. Students are asked NOT to open any doors, regardless of if they know the person or not.

Tobacco-Free Environment

PiM Arts High School is a tobacco and tobacco products-free campus. Use of tobacco, tobacco-related products and devices, and electronic cigarettes before, during, or after school hours, including during evening and weekend performances and activities is strictly prohibited. PiM Arts High School’s School Resource Officer from the Eden Prairie Police Department may be contacted to issue a citation which may result in the student having to appear in court. Students, parents, staff and visitors are asked to refrain from using tobacco, tobacco-related products and electronic cigarettes while on the PiM Arts High School campus.

Transportation

PiM Arts High School contracts with CSTMN for all of its school busing, and participates in Metro Transit’s “Go-To” Card program for schools. PiM Arts High School students riding school and city buses are to follow transportation behavior rules and policies. These are available on the PiM Arts High School website and provided to students who purchase a “Go-To” Card. Students in violation of these rules and expectations are subject to PiM Arts High School’s discipline policy.

PiM Arts High School charges a bus fee of $100/quarter to help cover the costs of transportation. For families where this fee will present a hardship, please contact Executive Director, Matt McFarlane at 952-224-1342. If this is the case for you, we ask you to pay what you are able. This bus fee in no way should keep a student from attending PiM Arts High School. Metro Transit “Go-To” Cards are valid for unlimited rides on hundreds of bus routes and light-rail lines from August through June at a cost of $100/quarter. Passes may be purchased at the main office. Questions regarding transportation should be directed to our Transportation Coordinator, Logan Bitz Daum at (952) 224-1346.

PiM Arts High School provides a platform for parents to explore carpooling options as well. Please check our website or contact the main office if you are interested and we will help you try to connect with families in your geographic area.

Visitors

All visitors to the building must sign in at the main office. Valid identification may be required. For security reasons, PiM Arts High School does not allow students to host visitors in the building.

At PiM Arts High School, we expect all students to strive for academic and arts excellence. Below is information on how students can earn additional academic/arts honors and recognition:

ACADEMICS:

Advanced Placement (AP)

PiM Arts High School students may participate in Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Advanced Placement requires students to work at a high level of achievement and involves extra work outside of class. Students are expected to sign a contract acknowledging that they are aware of and agree to accept responsibility for the increased workload. Students who take the national Advanced Placement examinations associated with these courses may receive college credit. More detailed information can be requested from PiM Arts High School’s Director of Teaching & Learning, Cassy Schauwitzer.

Credit by Assessment (CbA)

Credit by Assessment (CbA) allows students to receive credit for graduation-required academic subjects by satisfactorily completing the assessment for that class. This option is meant to accommodate students who have previously learned the material, not for students who have attempted and failed the course. Often it is used by students who took an advanced course in junior high but did not earn high school credit.

The assessment is determined by the academic department and the student must earn at least 85% to earn credit and a grade of P (Pass). Students may not apply for this option if they are currently in the class.

Students must request an application form from PiM Arts High School’s Director of Teaching & Learning, Cassy Schauwitzer. The completed application must be returned to Ms. Schauwitzer as much in advance of the class start date as possible. Students seeking credit by assessment should not expect tutoring of any kind as this is designed for students with previous knowledge. Contact Ms. Schauwitzer for additional information.

Graduating with Academic Distinction

Seniors graduating from PiM Arts High School whose cumulative GPA is 3.8 or higher at the end of the third term of their senior year will graduate with academic distinction. These seniors will be noted for academic honors in the commencement program and will receive a gold cord to wear at the graduation ceremony.

Graduating with Honors

Seniors graduating from PiM Arts High School whose cumulative GPA is 3.5 or higher at the end of the third term of their senior year, will graduate with academic honors. These seniors will also be noted for academic honors in the commencement program and will receive a silver cord to wear at the graduation ceremony.

Honor Roll & High Honor Roll (Quarterly)

To be eligible for the quarterly Honor Roll, a student must attain a quarterly GPA of 3.5 or higher during the previous quarter. To be eligible for the quarterly High Honor Roll, a student must attain a quarterly GPA of 3.8 or higher for the previous quarter.

Lettering (Academic & Arts)

Letter Awards recognize students for their participation in the PiM Arts High School community. Students can letter in all 7 Arts Areas or Academics by securing 1,000 points in the given discipline. Lettering certificates are awarded after a student has recorded all of his or her points on a lettering form and has a teacher from that discipline sign it verifying the points earned.

Lettering forms are due the Friday prior to each quarter’s parent-teacher conferences. The certificate comes with a cover letter with information on how to order a letter jacket.

Points are also awarded for Speech, Main Stage performances, NO SHAME participation, tech work and other faculty-approved performances and activities. Points awarded for each activity vary according to the number of hours associated with the project. Lettering information for specific activities is available from the advisor/faculty leader.

National Honor Society (NHS)

Selection for this honor occurs during junior year and is based on specific criteria for scholarship, leadership, service and character. A complete description of the selection process is available upon request from the PiM NHS advisor, Cassy Schauwitzer (cschauwitzer@pimartshs.org).

National Spanish Honor Society (Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica)

La Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (The National Spanish Honor Society) is a nation-wide honor society for high school students currently enrolled in Spanish and/or Portuguese classes. The mission of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica is to recognize high school achievement in Spanish and Portuguese and to promote interest in Hispanic and Luso-Brazilian studies. A complete description of the selection process is available upon request from NSHS advisor, Mr. Kvale (aaron.kvale@pimartshs.org).

Self-Directed Study

Self-Directed Study offers a unique learning opportunity for motivated and independent students in an area of special interest not readily available through conventional course offerings. The student works with a chosen faculty member who approves the student’s individualized Plan of Study and supervises the student’s progress. The course of study may be project-oriented, research-oriented, and/or focused on directed readings and writings in the area of interest. A complete description of the Self-Directed Study program and policy are available from PiM’s Director of Teaching & Learning, Cassy Schauwitzer.

ARTS:

Arts Endorsement

Seniors graduating from PiM Arts High School who have completed a rigorous assigned course of study in their area of performing arts will receive an endorsement in Dance, Instrumental Music, Media Arts, Musical Theatre, Theatre, Visual Arts, or Vocal Music. These seniors will be noted for arts honors in the commencement program and will receive a white stole to wear at the graduation ceremony. An Arts Endorsement is an internal recognition made by PiM Arts High School. We encourage each student to choose an arts area to focus on throughout their time at the school. If a student completes all of the required courses, the endorsement will appear on the student’s transcript. Please note that colleges/universities may or may not look at this endorsement in determining eligibility for their programs.

Arts Juries

Juries are a basic art skills assessment where students meet exclusively with an arts instructor to obtain individual feedback on their progression in their art area. This is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability to apply the tools they are learning in their arts classes towards a well prepared, rehearsed and professional quality performance.

Successful completion of an arts jury keeps students eligible for their arts endorsement as well as Block 5 arts activities, such as music ensembles (vocal or instrumental), main stage performances, dance concerts, NO SHAME, Student Ambassadors and other arts activities. Students are strongly encouraged to complete their arts juries each year they are at PiM Arts High School. Some of our arts departments require that students complete juries. Students should check with their arts area advisors.

National Art Honor Society (NAHS)

The National Art Honor Society’s purpose is to assist student members to attain their highest potential in all forms of art, and to raise awareness of art education throughout the school and community. Members are active in volunteering and supporting service projects. Members are expected to maintain an A average in all arts classes and have consistent attendance and participation. Contact NAHS Advisor, Julie Fowler (julie.fowler@pimartshs.org) for more information.

National Honor Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA)

Students will do a variety of community and PiM orientated service projects. Students will curate the National Dance Day Showcase and/or workshops, among other activities. This does not require an audition and is open to all majors. A complete description of the selection process is available upon request from NHSDA advisor, Lara Ciganko (lciganko@pimartshs.org).

Students at PiM Arts High School are expected to be respectful and considerate at all times and to all community members – students, parents, teachers, support staff, administrators and visitors. We are striving for a community that is academically and artistically rigorous, one that is safe, positive, supportive, nurturing, and cooperative. To that end, behavior expectations are very simple: respect each other, respect our school community, make learning fun, and take personal risks!

Disciplinary action for misconduct will range from a parent conference and/or detention, grade reduction or loss when misconduct is academically related, or restitution, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, exclusion and/or expulsion depending on the seriousness of the infraction. PiM administrators and teachers reserve the right to adjust disciplinary actions based on the circumstances of the situation.

This list contains short descriptions of some of the more serious misconduct. Please note that this is not intended to be a comprehensive listing.

**This list illustrates, but is not limited to, the consequences that may need to be addressed should these behaviors or offenses or any others not categorized occur. Multiple incidents of different behaviors or offenses may result in consideration of changing the consequence or offense level due to the total number of offenses that have occurred. PiM Arts High School reserves the right to recommend longer or shorter consequences based on the above guidelines.**

**All behavioral policies and guidelines as previously stated shall be enforced during extra/co-curricular activities.**

Bullying/Offensive Behavior/Harassment

It is the policy of PiM Arts High School to maintain a learning and working environment that is safe and secure, and where students and employees are treated with respect and dignity. PiM Arts High School will strive to ensure that no student or employee will be subject to offensive or degrading remarks or conduct. Such behavior includes inappropriate remarks or conduct related to a student’s or employee’s race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, appearance, marital status, disability, age or status with regard to public assistance.

Offensive behavior that is expressly prohibited by this policy includes religious, racial and sexual harassment and violence.

It is a violation of this policy for any student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel of the PiM Arts High School to harass a student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel through conduct or communication of a sexual nature or because of religion and race as defined by this policy. (For purposes of this policy, school personnel include school board members, school employees, school bus drivers, agents, volunteers, visitors, contractors or persons subject to the supervision and control of the PiM Arts High School.)

It is a violation of this policy for any student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel of the PiM Arts High School to inflict, threaten to inflict, or attempt to inflict religious, racial or sexual violence as defined by this policy, upon any student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel.

PiM Arts High School will respond to all complaints of offensive behavior as defined by this policy, either formal or informal, written or verbal, and will discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel who is found to have violated this policy. For more information about this policy or to file a complaint, contact Executive Director, Matt McFarlane.

Harassment – Sexual

Sexual harassment by word, gesture, or physical contact is illegal. No person will be subjected either directly or indirectly to another’s unwelcome sexual comments, displays or overtures. This includes excessive displays of affection that are inappropriate in a public setting. Students who violate this policy shall be subject to appropriate discipline, up to and including dismissal. Students who feel they are being harassed are encouraged to contact the Director of Student Life or report their concerns to a member of the school’s administration.

Hate Speech Prohibition

Hate speech is defined as discriminatory harassment that includes verbal, written, graphic or physical conduct that directly attacks or condones attacks on any person, or group of persons based on their race, ethnicity, national origin, religious affiliation, sex, gender, or gender identity, sexual orientation, age and disability or disease. Any student that is in violation of this policy will be subject to appropriate behavioral consequences, up to and including dismissal. Students who feel as though they are being discriminated against should contact the Director of Student Life or report their concerns to a member of the school’s administration team.

Hazing Prohibition

The purpose of this policy is to maintain a safe learning environment for students and staff that is free from hazing. Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational goals of PiM Arts High School and are prohibited at all times. “Hazing” means committing an act against a student, or coercing a student into committing an act, that creates a substantial risk of harm to a person, in order for the student to be initiated into or affiliated with a student organization, or for any other school-related purpose. Consequences for students who commit, tolerate, or are a party to prohibited acts of hazing may range from remedial responses or positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension and/or expulsion.

Any person who believes they have been the target or victim of hazing or any person with knowledge or belief of conduct which may constitute hazing shall report the alleged acts immediately to PiM Arts High School Executive Director, Matt McFarlane. Please note that reports of hazing may be made anonymously.

Performance/Gallery Showing Participation Policy

PiM Arts High School takes the position that time spent in class is paramount to learning. Students participating in PiM Arts High School performances and gallery showings agree to the following responsibilities:

• In order to participate in a school activity, students must be in attendance for two consecutive full blocks on the day of (not including Advisory) to be considered eligible to participate in ALL aspects of a performance or gallery showing (including regularly scheduled rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and all scheduled performances and openings). Please note that this also includes Senior Capstone rehearsals and performances.
• PiM Arts High School in accordance with the Minnesota State High School League maintains a strict grade policy. School work is job one. If during the rehearsal process a student’s grades drop below “passing” the student will be placed on an Academic Improvement Plan until they are receiving a passing grade.
• All participants are expected to attend all rehearsals for which they are scheduled, as well as all performances.
• Rehearsals will run on schedule and participants should be dropped off and picked up on time.
• Major conflicts with the rehearsal schedule are not acceptable. While it is our goal to create a positive experience for everyone, major conflicts impact the entire ensemble. As a last resort, it may be necessary to replace a performer.
• Missed rehearsals are only accepted if approved in advance by the Director/Advisor.
• PiM Arts High School staff are not allowed to transport students. A list of participants will be available to help organize carpools.
• Participants are expected to have respect for the facilities in which they rehearse and perform.

Weapons & Zero Tolerance Policy

Zero Tolerance means PiM Arts High School strictly prohibits weapons or look-a-like weapons on school grounds and will take immediate disciplinary action with respect to those who have violated the policy. The PiM Arts High School takes the position of “zero tolerance” on the possession, handling, transmittal, storage, or use of any weapon or object that may be used as a weapon on school grounds, on school buses, or at PiM Arts High School related events. Specifically, when a student shows intent to harm. PiM Arts High School understands that a student may have accidentally brought a weapon to school. In this circumstance, the student is expected to immediately inform their teacher and/or turn the object into the Director of Student Life, who will then notify parents of the incident and request for them to pick up the item.

*Performance/Production Exception: If a student needs to bring a look-a-like weapon to school for use as a prop for a scheduled performance, the student must have this item pre-approved by their Block 5 instructor and the Director of Student Life.

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