Student-Parent Handbook

The Bolles School prepares students for college and life by inspiring excellence, courage, integrity and compassion in an academic community dedicated to nurturing mind, body and soul.

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS: The Bolles School admits students of any race, color, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, or disability/handicap, to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally available to students at the School. It does not discriminate in administering educational policies or other school programs. This School is authorized under Federal law to enroll non-immigrant students.

Honor Code
A core value of the School is integrity. The Bolles Honor System is based upon, but not limited to, our Honor Code that states: “I will maintain my self-respect and respect others. I will not lie, cheat, steal or tolerate anyone who does.” The complete official Honor Code can be found here.


 

To be successful, every independent school needs and expects the cooperation of its parents/guardians, who must understand and embrace the School’s mission, share its core values, and fully support its curriculum, faculty and staff. When joined by a common set of beliefs and purposes, the independent school and its parents/guardians form a powerful team with far-reaching positive effects on children and the entire school community.

Working together, parents/guardians and school professionals exert a strong influence on children to become better educated; they also help them to mature by modeling adult working relationships based on civility, honesty and respect.

In most independent schools, decision-making authority at the highest level resides in a volunteer Board of Trustees whose membership often includes current parents/guardians. The Board focuses on three areas critical to the success of any independent school: it selects, evaluates, and supports the Head of School to whom it delegates authority to manage the School; the Board develops broad institutional policies that guide the Head of School in running the school; and the Board is accountable for the financial well-being of the school. In the conduct of its official business, the Board acts only as a whole; individual trustees, including the Board Chair, have no authority to act unless specifically authorized to do so by the Board acting as a whole.

Trustees often interact with others within the School community but are not involved in the daily operation of the School. As a matter of good practice, parents/guardians should report concerns to the appropriate teacher or administrator and not directly to board members.

Parents/guardians play an essential and positive role in the life of an independent school. Not only are parents/guardians advocates for their children, parents/guardians also support the faculty and administration through extensive volunteer activities and events.

The relationship between parents/guardians and the faculty and administration is formally governed by the School’s written enrollment contract, in which its expectations are spelled out. When parents/guardians choose to enroll their child in an independent school, they agree to subscribe to its mission, follow its rules, and abide by its decisions. Trust and mutual respect are essential to an effective working relationship between parents/guardians and the School.

Parents/guardians best support a school climate of trust and respect by communicating concerns openly and constructively to the teacher or administrator closest to the problem.

The Bolles motto, Pursuing excellence through courage, integrity, and compassion, reflects the importance the School places in creating and maintaining an atmosphere of genuine respect and courtesy between student and student, adult and student and adult and adult. This respect and courtesy is of vital importance.

Therefore, in partnership, we mutually agree to:

1. Promote the School mission as an inclusive, diverse community of learners and educators.
2. Treat all members of the School with respect and civility.
3. Help support a home environment that encourages the development of positive learning attitudes and habits including, among other things, consistent, on-time drop off, regular sleeping routines and disciplined access to electronic media.
4. Create a culture of mutual respect and high social and academic expectations.
5. Resolve conflicts and questions in the spirit of partnership and objectivity and assume there are at least two sides to every disagreement.
6. Respect the School’s responsibilities to do what is best for the entire community and for the promulgation of itself as an educational institution.
7. Respect the confidentiality of all aspects of the children’s experience, including grades, assessments and the experiences of their peers.
8. Communicate effectively, efficiently, and truthfully with each other about all aspects of the child’s experience.
9. Nurture all children towards an evolving and developmentally appropriate independence.

Students honored at the Academic Banquet in the spring are those who are in the top 10% of each grade level based on the weighted grade point average computed at the end of the third quarter. In the senior year, students who have maintained a cumulative top 10% rank are also honored.

The Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) requires student athletes meet specific academic standards at the conclusion of each semester of high school. Failure to meet these standards at the end of any semester of high school results in a student's ineligibility for the subsequent semester. The School will use the FHSAA standards to determine a student's eligibility status twice a year, at the completion of each semester. Students who are ineligible by FHSAA standards following semester review will not be allowed to represent the School in interscholastic athletic competition for the entire subsequent semester. Student athletes who have satisfied FHSAA Academic Eligibility standards must also maintain satisfactory academic progress in order to represent the School in interscholastic competition.

In addition to the FHSAA requirements for eligibility, student-athletes must fulfill the School’s Participation Policy with regard to Participation and Attendance and Participation and Grades (see Participation Policy tab below).

A committee composed of administrators, teachers, advisors and college counselors participates in the selection process for membership of the National Honor Society. In the spring, juniors and seniors who have met the scholarship pillar of the NHS are invited to apply for membership. Applications require students to respond to questions regarding character, leadership and service. Disciplinary records and any appearance before the Disciplinary Committee or Honor Council will be considered in the review process. For more information, see National Honor Society at Bolles.

Participation and Attendance:
Bolles students are involved in a number of activities outside of the school day. The School encourages a healthy balance of activities and stresses that in order for a student to be eligible to participate on an athletic field (practice or competition), in a performance (rehearsal or performance), or in any other activity, they must first satisfy their academic obligations. Therefore, participation in these extracurricular activities requires attendance in at least half of the student's classes on the day of the event with no unexcused absences. Academic obligations (i.e., tests, papers, etc.) must also be fulfilled.

Academic Policies for Religious and Cultural Observances
The Bolles School believes in nurturing students to be the best version of themselves by fostering well-being and joy in an environment that cultivates a diverse, international, and inclusive community. The cultivation of an inclusive community has led us to establish a policy for religious and cultural observances which supports students expressing their whole identity.

The following list is not exhaustive of all holidays or observances, nor active religious communities on campus. However, Bolles School will not assign homework or assessments on the following holidays, nor over Thanksgiving, Winter, or Spring Breaks.

• Christmas
• Diwali
• Eid
• Good Friday/Easter
• Lunar New Year
• Rosh Hashanah
• Yom Kippur

In addition, when students will be absent from school for observances other than those listed above, requests should be submitted to the campus office by parents/guardians by the beginning of the school year (Lower School) or beginning of the semester (Middle/Upper School). The Bolles School is committed to honoring any religious or cultural request by excusing school attendance, games, or practices if it is in conjunction with religious observances or cultural celebrations.

Participation and Grades
At four weeks into each academic quarter, all grades are reviewed. Any student with two Ds or one F is placed on participation warning. Participation in the activity may continue, but warning status alerts the student, the family, the advisor and the coach or sponsor that potential exists for the student to lose the privilege of participation in competitions or performances for a period of four weeks and that a final determination will be made at the end of each quarter. A student who is placed on participation restriction at the end of a quarter remains on that restriction until the student's grades improve appropriately. Participation status for the first four weeks of the second semester is based upon first semester grades.

Participation restriction becomes official seven calendar days after grades are made available. Any student who wishes to make an appeal concerning their participation status must do so within a calendar week of the day grades are distributed or they will remain unable to compete/perform for the remainder of the four-week period. Appeals must be made in writing to the Assistant Upper School Head and include statements from the student, coach or sponsor and the student's advisor and parent(s)/guardian(s). The student may be asked to make a personal appearance before the committee that reviews such appeals and/or produce other supporting material such as weekly progress reports or comments from teachers. Coaches or sponsors may establish their own policies regarding the level of participation of students relative to their academic performance if these are consistent with the above-stated policy.

The purpose of the President's List is to recognize students who have, in the preceding quarter, made significant contributions above and beyond the level of performance expected of the Bolles student to create a positive impact in the community. Students are nominated for this award by teachers, club and class sponsors, or fellow classmates. A committee of administrators and advisors then makes recommendations to the president for his approval. The awards are presented at convocations, and a communication is sent home to announce the student's selection.

There are a number of times during the school day when a student can go to teachers to get general help or clarification on lessons. Zero Hour is available each day and Activities Period or other times during the day may also be used for academic support. Students should contact teachers to see about a time that would be mutually agreeable.

If a student feels that additional help is needed and the family opts to work with a tutor, tutoring should be viewed as a temporary measure designed to address a specific situation, not as a long-term solution. Please keep in mind that Bolles faculty may not tutor their own students for compensation, nor can they offer tutoring during the school day. Non-Bolles tutors may not tutor Bolles students on campus without prior permission from the Campus Head. Once approved by the Campus Head, non-Bolles tutors must be cleared through the Human Resources Office.

Zero Hour, from 8 - 8:30 a.m. each academic day, provides an opportunity for additional help from teachers. It is also a time that parents/guardians may make an appointment to meet with a teacher or advisor to review student progress.

The Bent Student Center Canteen and Verlander Hall are open at 8 a.m. for breakfast and the Swisher Library is open for research and/or study.

The School has an Infirmary with a nurse on duty during school hours. Medical history, records and current medication information must be uploaded to Magnus Health, the Student Medical Record (SMR) system used by the School to collect student health forms and other required paperwork for the school year. Magnus Health SMR is a secure site for submitting health information. You will receive an email from Magnus Health to initiate this process. Please make sure to set up your account and submit all of your child's health information through this system.

A student requiring medical attention should report to their scheduled class first to receive permission to visit the Infirmary, then report back to class as soon as possible. If a student is too sick to attend class, arrangements should be made through the Deans' Office or the Infirmary for the student to go home.

Students must never carry prescribed medication. Any student who requires medication during the school day must take it to the Infirmary to be distributed by the nurse. It is imperative for the School to have correct names and phone numbers for emergency contacts as well as the exact name of the medication(s), the dose, and schedule for administering the medication(s).

Parent(s)/guardian(s) and student agree, as a condition of continued enrollment, to consent to the release of any of the student’s health related information, including information relating to drug treatment, testing, medical and mental health records, to employees or agents of the school, as determined by the Head of School or their designee, to meet the medical or safety needs of the student and the community or the legal responsibilities of the school.

The School will maintain appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect the security of all health-related information within its care or custody. While it is the obligation of the school to safeguard student medical information, we must also balance matters of privacy and confidentiality with safeguarding the interests and well-being of our students and our community. Thus, parents/guardians and students consent to allow employees and agents of the school, who have a need to know, to receive and/or share medical and/or psychological information necessary to serve the best interests of the student and/or community. In the event of a disclosure required by law, every effort will be made to notify the student and/or parents/guardians in advance.

Parents/guardians, family physicians and key staff members will work together to help provide a safe educational environment for students with severe allergies.  The parents/guardians of students with severe allergies are an imperative part of a successful prevention and treatment plan for their child.

It is important for the student to know as much as possible about their allergy. They should be aware of:

• Their allergens and the symptoms of anaphylaxis
• The importance of hand washing before and after eating
• Strategies to avoid allergens (i.e. not sharing food, moving away from people eating the allergen, putting down a barrier at the lunch table etc.)
• How and when to tell an adult that they are having an allergy-related problem

A number of forms will help the School be prepared in the event of need:

• The Magnus emergency health information
• An Allergy Action Plan, created in cooperation with the child’s physician. This needs to be submitted annually before the start of school.
• A complete list of medications and when they need to be administered while the student is on campus
• A list of emergency medications prescribed by your child's health care provider BEFORE the first day of school. For Athletics, the trainers will need them prior to the first practice. The Allergy Action Plan mentioned above must accompany all emergency medications.

In addition:

• If your child participates in any afterschool activities, an additional EpiPen will need to be provided.
• Please be sure to check the expiration of medication before bringing to school and keep up to date.
• Medication provided by parents/guardians will be carried on field trips and available during the school day. Stock EpiPens DO NOT travel on field trips.
• If the student carries their own EpiPen, the student/parent/guardian is responsible for making sure that the student has it for field trips, athletic and after school activities.
• Contact to be made before the start of school:
  • School Nurse: Collaborate with the school nurse, Ms. Kristi Ruzanka, to help implement the emergency plan. 
  • Athletic Trainers: Before first athletic practice.
• During the course of the school year, please communicate any changes in your child's health or medication to the school nurse.

Student will be responsible for:

• Not sharing food.
• Reading posted allergen labels and warning signs.
• Not eating foods with unknown ingredients or known to contain an allergen.
• Being aware of the allergen exposure risks (cafeteria, buses, playground etc.)
• Washing hands before and after eating.
• Advocating for themselves and notifying an adult as soon as exposure and/or symptoms occur.

Representing the School in sports is a privilege and student-athletes must be willing to adhere to certain guidelines:
1. Participation – As indicated in the Participation Policy, a student is required to attend at least half of their academic classes during the day of the event (competition or practice), with no unexcused absences. All academic obligations (i.e., tests, papers, etc.) must also be fulfilled.
2. Conduct – Student-athletes represent the School both on and off the athletic field, and as such are expected to behave in a manner consistent with the mission of the School.
3. Sportsmanship – Bolles student-athletes are expected to live by the motto “Be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.” As such, they are expected to follow the rules, abide by officials' decisions, refrain from profanity and taunting, and treat opponents with fairness.
4. Training habits - Recognizing that the attainment of top physical condition is of primary importance to any athlete:
a. Alcohol, tobacco, and drugs will not be used in any form.
b. Reasonable hours will be maintained away from school.
c. A healthy training diet is encouraged.
5. Loyalty - Recognizing that loyalty to the School is vital to the success of any athletic endeavor, the athlete will:
a. Faithfully cooperate with the coach, the team members, and all School authorities.
b. Ensure eligibility by maintaining high academic standards.
c. Properly care for all School property and equipment issued.
6. Courage - Accepting responsibility as a team member, the athlete will perform duties in a manner that will earn the respect of teammates and opponents alike.

J.V. and Varsity Letters
In awarding J.V. or Varsity letters, the coach of each sport, along with the athletic director, will determine the criteria for receiving a letter. At graduation, lifetime letters are presented to student-athletes who have earned three varsity letters while participating in athletics at Bolles. These letters may be earned in one sport or a combination of sports, and at least one must have been earned during the senior year.

Eligibility
The School must have on file a certified copy of the birth certificate of each student who will compete in interscholastic athletics so that the student-athlete can be registered with the Florida High School Athletic Association. The birth certificate must be certified by the state in which it was issued. Notarized, photocopied, or unofficial copies are not accepted by the High School Athletic Association. The birth certificate must be filed with the School not later than August 1.

Academic eligibility standards are required by the Florida High School Athletic Association and by the School, and are strictly enforced at Bolles.

General
Active participation in class activities is an integral part in the learning experience at The Bolles School. For this reason, class attendance is essential, and students are expected to attend all academic classes and be on time. Convocation and mandatory class meetings are considered classes for this purpose and it is the student’s responsibility to check the announcements and Schoology messages for these meetings on a daily basis.

Absences
Official Absence: Official absences are those resulting from school-sponsored events (athletic competitions, field trips, etc.) and are considered excused absences.

Personal Absences: All absences not resulting from school-sponsored events are considered personal absences, and they may be excused or unexcused. Absences resulting from medical situations, legal responsibilities, family emergencies, etc. and those anticipated absences approved through the Impending Absence Form are excused. (See Anticipated Absences below.) Skipping class, absence from class with no parent/guardian contact, and anticipated absence with no Impending Absence Form are examples of unexcused absences. The Deans' Office reviews all unexcused absences for possible disciplinary action. In addition, students will receive a consequence of a grade two letters below the grade earned on work made up from the unexcused absences.

The Deans' Office contacts the family to confirm the reason for absences as they occur. Parents/guardians are notified at the interim of each quarter when a student has accumulated four (4) or more personal absences from any academic class. Parents/guardians are also notified at the end of each quarter when a student has accumulated seven (7) or more personal absences in any academic class.

At the end of each quarter, the attendance record of a student receiving more than seven (7) personal absences in any academic class or reflecting a pattern of not attending class on test days, are reviewed by an Attendance Review Committee for possible academic penalty. A student with more than seven (7) personal absences risks receiving a failing grade for the quarter, and any student receiving more than (14) personal absences per semester in any class risks not receiving academic credit for that class. Any senior receiving more than seven (7) personal absences in either quarter of the spring semester will be ineligible for consideration of an exam exemption in that course. After seven personal absences, parents/guardians may be asked for further written verification or documentation concerning their child's absences to determine whether an appeal is necessary.

Anticipated Absences
When a student knows in advance that they will miss a class, it is the student's responsibility to notify the teacher(s) before the absence and to make mutually satisfactory arrangements for work to be completed. Failure to do so will lead to the absence being marked ‘unexcused’. When the student returns to school from an anticipated absence (other than medical), they will be expected to be prepared for that day's obligations, including tests and quizzes over previously assigned material. Students will not be required to complete work on new material that was presented on the day(s) missed. The Impending Absence Form is available in the Deans’ Office and must be completed prior to any anticipated absence that is not school-related.

Unanticipated Absences
Absences from school must be reported to the School. On the day of the absence, please call the Deans' Office at 904-256-5040 or email DeansOffice@Bolles.org.

Make-up Privileges
Students who miss class unexpectedly because of illness and whose absences are determined to be excused will normally be given the same number of days they have missed to make up assignments, quizzes, or major tests, unless otherwise specified by a teacher or department. Teachers may exercise discretion in requiring students to submit projects, papers, and long-term assignments as close as possible to the original due date. Extended absences will be dealt with on an individual basis and should include the student's advisor in the discussion in order to coordinate a schedule for make-up work.

Students whose absence is deemed unexcused will receive a two letter-grade penalty on work made up from the unexcused absences.

If a student is absent from an exam, the exam must be made up as soon as possible after the original administration date. All arrangements for make-up exams must be made through the Academic Office. In all cases, an exam must be made up within two weeks of return from Winter Break or two weeks after Graduation or the grade will be calculated as an F.

Likewise, any Incomplete indicated at the end of a quarter must be made up within two weeks, or in the case of an Incomplete at the end of the second quarter, within two weeks of return from Winter Break and for the fourth quarter, two weeks after Graduation. 

Participation Guidelines
Participation in extracurricular or interscholastic art, athletic, and academic performances, practices and competitions requires attendance in at least half of the student's academic classes, with no unexcused absences. Academic obligations (i.e., tests, papers, etc.) must also be fulfilled.

Late Return Policy
There are occasions where a School-sponsored trip will return late on a weeknight. If the school-provided transportation returns to campus

• before midnight, students are required to be in school the entire next day
• between midnight and two a.m., students will be excused from first and second block and should sign in by the beginning of third block.
• between two and four a.m., students will be excused from first, second and third block and should sign in by the beginning of fourth block.

As with other anticipated absences, students should speak to teachers before the event if they foresee a late return in order to make mutually satisfactory arrangements for work to be made up.

Tardies
1. Students late to class will be sent to the Deans' Office to receive a readmit to class.
2. A student's first two tardies carry no penalty. Each additional tardy is one demerit.
3. Students who miss more than twenty minutes of a class will be marked absent and unexcused rather than tardy which will result in an academic and disciplinary penalty.
4. An excused tardy must be verified by a parent, guardian or School representative. Students must check in at the Deans’ Office and receive a readmit before going to class.
5. It is considered an Honor Code violation if a student receives a readmit to a class and does not attend the class.
6. Students needing to go to the infirmary between classes must check in with their next period’s teacher before seeing the nurse.

Early Departure
1. If a student needs to leave the campus during the school day, a parent/guardian must contact the Deans' Office to let the Office know of the time of dismissal, the purpose of the dismissal, and the approximate time of return to campus.  If the absence is anticipated, the student should contact the teacher(s) before missing.
2. Once a request for dismissal has been approved by the Deans' Office, a student must check out in the Deans' Office. Upon return to campus, a student must check in at the Deans' Office in order to receive a readmit to class. A student's failure to check out or in may result in the assignment of a Saturday session.
3. Students in grades 9-11 are not allowed to leave campus during the school day. If a student must leave during the lunch hour, the student's parent/guardian must check them out in the Deans' Office.

Late to School
A student who arrives at school after 8:30 a.m. and misses all or part of any academic classes must check in in person at the Deans' Office before going to class. Failure to do so may result in the assignment of an automatic Saturday session. In addition, there must be verbal or written contact from a parent/guardian explaining the tardy.

Residence Requirement
It is the policy of The Bolles School that, during the academic year and during a summer term when a day student is enrolled in classes or athletic training programs, day students must live with their parent(s), legal guardian(s), or an adult relative that is legally authorized to give consent for the student. If the student is not living with their parent(s)/guardian(s), evidence of compliance with this policy will be required for the School's records.

As a community of learners, The Bolles School commits to creating a welcoming environment that values cultural competency skills supporting an awareness of one's own cultural identity and the ability to learn and build on the varying cultural and community norms of students and their families. Students are expected to demonstrate respect for themselves and others, to show courage, integrity and compassion in order to preserve the safety and well-being of others.

The Bolles School maintains a policy prohibiting harassment of students, faculty, staff and others connected with the school community, for any reason, including but not limited to, that based upon race, color, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, or disability/handicap, by students, faculty or any individuals associated with The Bolles School. Harassment in violation of this policy may have the effect of unreasonably interfering with a student's school environment by creating an intimidating or hostile learning environment.

Harassment may occur through physical actions, through any type of communications method, including face-to-face communications, phone, text, email, manipulation of photos or meme creation or postings on social media. This applies even if the communications are temporary in nature such as Snapchat and Instagram posts. Harassment also includes the displaying of offensive symbols such as swastikas, confederate flags, etc. Symbols such as these are offensive because they reflect historical periods of cultural genocide or are currently affiliated with organizations espousing violence and intolerance.

There are many different types of harassment. Examples of some types of harassment include any conduct or expression that demeans or degrades an individual or group based on that individual’s characteristics, color, race or background. See the next section for more information.

Sexual harassment involves unwelcome or offensive sexual advances, touching another individual’s body in private areas, requests for sexual favors, requests for pictures of a sexual nature and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment can also include spreading rumors about another individual’s sexual activity. Sexual harassment may also come in the form of physical or verbal harassment and may be delivered through teasing, bullying, etc. If you have a question about any behavior, comment, posting, text or other form of communication you should contact one of the individuals listed in the Reporting section for assistance.

Abusive, Degrading or Vulgar Language and Conduct

Any verbal or other conduct, such as visual depictions, harassment, or gesturing, which demeans or degrades others because of their race or ethnicity, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, religion, nationality, cultural heritage, appearance or sexual orientation, is unacceptable behavior and will be considered a serious offense. Language which includes racial terms such as the N-word, references to degrading stereotypes, slurs, explicit or implied violence or other graphic conduct, in any form—verbal or written communication or physical action—reflects the language of hate. Students who use obscene or vulgar language will be subject to the same consequences.

The consequences for committing a violation may include discussion with the offending student, family notification, education in cultural competencies, counseling, appearance before Disciplinary Committee, suspension, and potential expulsion. The consequence for repeated violations is expulsion. A claim by the offending student that harassment or bullying was not the “intent” will not be a defense if a negative impact reasonably resulted from their behavior. Counseling and other pertinent resources will be provided for the victim and family.

Reporting

Our community does not tolerate any activity that fosters or can be interpreted as harassment. Whether harassment is in person or via any kind of communication venue, students and parents/guardians must be aware that reporting such harassment is necessary for cessation, resolution and community restoration. Reporting is essential to the growth of the whole individual.

Students who witness any type of harassment are required to report the incident. You may do this by any of the following methods:

• Contact one of the individuals listed below:
  • Katie Cussen or Lauren Genduso, Counseling Services
  • Allison Denmark or Mannie Wellington, Deans’ Office
  • Twyla Ashman, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
  • Jeff Role, Chief Finance and Operations Officer
  • Mike Drew, Associate Head of School
  • Moya Marks, Head of Upper School
  • Student’s advisor
• Email concern@bolles.org or call 904-256-5311
• Complete an anonymous Safe Reporting Form

Reporting of complaints or concerns should be made promptly so that rapid and constructive action can be taken. While there is no fixed reporting period, early reporting and intervention has proven to be the most effective method of resolving actual or perceived incidents of harassment.

Reported allegations of harassment will be investigated promptly by the campus head or their designee. The investigation may include individual interviews with affected individual, the person accused of harassment and, where necessary, with individuals who may have observed the alleged conduct or may have relevant knowledge. The complaint, investigation, and resolution will be handled with sensitivity, and confidentiality will be maintained to the maximum extent practical and appropriate under the circumstances.

The Bolles School will not tolerate retaliation against an individual for reporting harassment or assisting in providing information relevant to a claim of harassment. Retaliation against the perpetrator in violation of the policy will also not be tolerated. Retaliation shows that the offender has not made any effort to grow in cultural competency from the experience, has not taken the lesson to heart, and/or needs more time for reflection and to practice accountability for their speech/actions. Forms of retaliation may include but are not limited to social media postings and verbal harassment. Retaliation is a serious violation of our code of conduct and will be treated with the same strict discipline as would the act of harassment. Acts of retaliation require immediate reporting in accordance with the reporting procedure and will be promptly investigated.

1. For safety reasons, headphones, earbuds, Air Pods, etc. may not be worn while walking or driving on campus.
2. To limit distractions, students are not permitted to use their device(s) to make or receive calls during the academic day. Seniors may use their phones or watches to make or receive calls in the senior parking lot.
3. For safety reasons, students are not permitted to access their device(s) when walking or driving on campus at any time. In addition, all phones must be securely stored in a backpack, bag or a pocket when the student is walking across campus.
4.  When playing audio, material must be appropriate, and the volume should not be distracting to others.
5. Teachers will determine the level of access to and usage of any device in their class(es).
6. Students may not audio record, video record, or photograph any individual(s) on campus without written permission.
7. School personnel may confiscate a device(s) if there is reason to believe that School policies or regulations have been violated. If a violation has occurred, depending on the gravity of the offense, the device(s) will either be returned to the student or to their parent/guardian at the end of the day or at the end of the school-sponsored event.

School teachers and other personnel are mandatory reporters under the Florida child abuse reporting laws. Please understand that we take our obligations seriously and if we assess that a situation requires it, we will make a report to child abuse authorities of situations that we reasonably suspect constitute abuse, neglect, or abandonment. Depending on the circumstances, we may not be able to communicate with parents/guardians about the report until authorized by child abuse authorities to do so. We appreciate your support to protect the children under our care.

The Bolles School computer network, including all School computer equipment and Internet access through school equipment, and personal network files of Bolles students, faculty, and staff, is provided as a tool for students to do research, deepen learning, and communicate with others. Access to network services is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Access is a privilege, not a right, and access entails responsibility on the part of all network users.

The Bolles School policies regarding computer and device usage are as follows:
1. Unauthorized access, alteration, and/or sharing of others' accounts, digital messages, and files are prohibited.
2. A school network account password is considered to be the personal property of the user and may not be shared with others. It is a violation of the computer-usage policy to allow others to use your login information.
3. Attempting to subvert network security, impair functionality of the network, or bypass restrictions set by the administrators is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Altering the system settings, system files, or programs on a school computer or device in any way without the permission of the network administrator.
• Purposely uploading or downloading viruses
• Downloading or uploading programs that can be used as hacking tools
• Tampering with digital equipment or data infrastructure components.

Assisting others in violating these rules is also considered unacceptable behavior.
4. The unlawful use or distribution of information is prohibited. This includes copyright violations such as software piracy.
5. Using the network for commercial purposes or promoting illegal activities is prohibited.
This includes, but is not limited to:

• Uploading, downloading, or sharing of illegal or pornographic material
• Uploading, downloading, or sharing of copyrighted materials such as music, movies, and books
• Duplicating copyrighted materials with the intention to sell
• Sending threatening or harassing digital messages
• Use of profanity and other similar activities

6. Before downloading files or programs from the Internet to a school computer or device, students should check with the teacher or lab supervisor.

Students understand that the right to use any electronic or mobile devices ("Device") at The Bolles School is a privilege and that in using any Device(s) students are at all times, required to adhere strictly to the Honor Code, the School values, policies and conditions.

The Bolles School policies as regards to allowed or required usage of personal electronic or mobile devices will be based on the following:
1. Students understand that their device(s) is/are intended for academic purposes and that teachers will determine the level of access to and usage of any device(s) in their classes. For the purposes of the School’s BYOD program, student cell phones are not considered a “device” and should not be accessed without permission in any academic settings including the Swisher library testing room.
2. Students understand that any unauthorized recording, the unauthorized taking of pictures or the unauthorized taking of videos will not be tolerated and that if found doing so students will be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion from The Bolles School.
3. Students further understand that the unauthorized distribution or posting of any audio recordings, pictures or videos is prohibited and that if found doing so students will be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion from The Bolles School.
5. Students are solely responsible for protecting and securing their device(s) including, but not limited to, against theft, damage, loss and all the other unforeseeable misfortunes which could occur.
6. Students are responsible for maintaining their device(s), including, but not limited to, maintaining device updates, virus protection and a charged battery throughout the academic day.
7. Since students represent the School at all times, it is the expectation of the School that students choosing to participate in any online activity will be responsible digital citizens and their behavior will reflect the School’s core values of excellence, courage, integrity and compassion.

Email communications from the School will be sent every Tuesday. If you find that you are not receiving these notices or would like to change your email, please contact the Registrar's Office.

The School works very hard to keep parents informed and the lines of communication open. Parent/guardian concerns regarding individual students should be directed first to the advisor or appropriate teacher.

Please note that neither parents/guardians nor outside interests are permitted to distribute any materials on any Bolles campus. This policy is intended to protect our families from receiving unwanted and/or unauthorized materials. The Bolles School Student Directory is offered as a courtesy. Personal information may not be shared or distributed or otherwise used for personal or professional gain.

PDF Version

Students on the San Jose Campus are asked to dress in a way that creates a positive and focused environment for learning and reflects the mission of the School.

The Bolles Dress Code is designed to help increase student awareness of what they choose to wear and how this impacts not only their experience but that of others around them. An important part of preparing our students for college and life is helping them understand that what someone wears reflects not only an expression of personal style, but also an expression of attitude toward the surrounding community. As in life, different on-campus occasions call for different guidelines. While we have a daily dress code at Bolles, we also have more relaxed dress codes for our dress down Friday and spirit days, and a more formal dress code for more serious occasions, such as all-school convocations and days on which we have speakers on campus. Regardless of the code that day, student clothing must promote community at all times.

DAILY DRESS CODE

The School reserves the right to make final decisions regarding attire/clothing choices as it relates to the mission of the School.

BOTTOMS:  Dress pants: with belt if have belt loops; dress skirts must reach or extend beyond the fingertips when at a normal stance.
Not allowed: shorts, yoga pants, cargo pants, leggings, tennis/running skorts, athletic clothing and jeans

TOPS: Dress tops: short-sleeved or long-sleeved button-up Oxford-style shirts, short-sleeved or long-sleeved dress blouses. All shirts with a collar must be tucked in.
Not allowed: Hawaiian-style collars or print; oversized or long-tailed shirts

SHOES: Athletic shoes, dress shoes, boat shoes, sandals with a back strap, rain boots and dress boots.
Not allowed: backless shoes, slippers, slides, flip-flops, Crocs or other plastic/rubber/Foamrunner-style footwear

OUTERWEAR: Sweatshirts, sweaters, jackets or coats that are plain or have a Bolles logo. Outerwear must be worn with a regulation dress shirt underneath. 
Not allowed: outerwear with college, university or team logos or with large-letter brand-name

HAIR: Hair should be neat, well-kept and out of the eyes at all times.
Not permitted: radical hair colors or styles

Also not permitted: 

• Hats, caps or visors worn inside during the School day, unless with permission for religious reasons
• Clothing with holes or frayed edges
• Facial piercings, tattoos that are lewd, offensive or are a representation of illegal activity must be covered or otherwise not visible.
• Facial hair, unless with permission for religious or medical reasons.

SPECIAL DRESS CODES

For each of the special dress codes, as with the daily dress code, the following are not permitted:

• Hats, caps or visors worn inside during the School day, unless with permission for religious reasons
• Clothing with holes or frayed edges
• Facial piercings, tattoos that are lewd, offensive or are a representation of illegal activity must be covered or otherwise not visible.
• Facial hair, unless with permission for religious or medical reasons.

FRIDAY DRESS CODE
Students follow the daily dress code as above, or they can wear:
Tops: Bolles collared shirt
Bottoms: Dress pants: with belt if have belt loops; dress skirts must reach or extend beyond the fingertips when at a normal stance.

DESIGNATED SPIRIT DAY DRESS CODE
Students follow the daily dress code as above, or they can wear:
Tops: Bolles collared shirt or Bolles t-shirt
Bottoms: Students may wear jeans with no holes, rips, or frayed hems or follow the Daily Dress Code: Dress pants: with belt if have belt loops; dress skirts must reach or extend beyond the fingertips when at a normal stance.

FORMAL DRESS CODE
BOTTOMS:  Dress pants: with belt if have belt loops; dress skirts must reach or extend beyond the fingertips when at a normal stance.
Not allowed: shorts, yoga pants, cargo pants, leggings, tennis/running skorts, athletic clothing and jeans

TOPS: Dress tops: short-sleeved or long-sleeved button-up Oxford-style shirts, short-sleeved or long-sleeved dress blouses. All shirts with a collar must be tucked in.
Not allowed: Hawaiian-style collars or print; oversized or long-tailed shirts

TIE: Tie required

DRESSES: Dresses that fit graduation requirements

SHOES: Athletic shoes, dress shoes, boat shoes, sandals with a back strap, rain boots and dress boots.
Not allowed: backless shoes, slippers, slides, flip-flops, Crocs or other plastic/rubber/Foamrunner-style footwear

OUTERWEAR: Sweatshirts, sweaters, jackets or coats that are plain or have a Bolles logo. Outerwear must be worn with a regulation dress shirt underneath. 
Not allowed: outerwear with college, university or team logos or with large-letter brand-name

HAIR: Hair should be neat, well-kept and out of the eyes at all times.
Not permitted: radical hair colors or styles

GRADUATION DRESS CODE
Beginning with the graduation of 1963, when The Bolles School dropped its military affiliation, the graduates wore white pants and blue blazers at graduation to distinguish themselves from the cadets who wore military uniforms in previous years. With the graduation of the first female students in the class of 1972, the School added white dresses as part of the ceremony. To honor these traditions, please adhere to the following requirements for your graduate:

For Females:
The dress should:

• be white, not off-white or cream,
• cover the knees when the wearer is seated,
• have sleeves or straps of a minimum ¾” width,
• have no cutouts,
• have a modest neckline with the back no lower than the bottom of the shoulder blades.

The shoes should:

• be white,
• have a low-heel, as the graduate will be walking on various surfaces including grass.
• Flats or wedges are a safe choice.
• Flip-flops or sneakers are not in keeping with the formal nature of the event.

For Males:
The shirt should:

• be light blue,
• be button-down,
• be designed to wear with a tie.

The jacket should:

• be dark blue.

The pants should:

• be white, not off-white or cream,
• be designed to wear with a belt. The belt should be brown or black.

The shoes should:

• be brown or black,
• be leather dress shoes.

The tie should be a traditional or bow tie with a conservative pattern.  Ties with characters, commercial products, advertising, team logos, etc. are not in keeping with the formal nature of the event.

For all Students:

As during the school day, facial piercings, tattoos that are lewd, offensive or are a representation of illegal activity must be covered or otherwise not visible. Hair should be neat, well-kept and out of the eyes at all times.

Any questions about the above should be addressed prior to Graduation Day with the Deans of Students,
Ms. Allison Denmark or Mr. Mannie Wellington. Any accommodations to the guidelines should be directed
to the Assistant Head of Upper School, Ms. Piper Moyer-Shad.

Students who are not dressed in accordance with the dress code will be referred to the Deans’ Office.  Repeated disregard for the guidelines will result in increasing consequences.

A student’s first dress code infraction carries no penalty, each additional dress code infraction is one demerit. 

• Official Warning: Warning recorded
• 1^st and 2^nd demerit: Activities duty
• 3^rd demerit: Lunch duty
• 4^th demerit: After-school detention
• 5^th demerit: Saturday Workday

Continued violation of the dress code over consecutive months will result in disciplinary warning/probation or referral to the Disciplinary Committee.

In the event of an emergency that may require the closing of School or canceling classes, official news will be broadcast immediately utilizing the global emergency phone system. In addition, as electrical outages allow, global emails will be sent to all parents/guardians, information will be posted to the Bolles website and on the voicemail on the main school line (904-733-9292), as well as through local media outlets. Decisions regarding School closure because of inclement weather will be made by 6 a.m. when possible.

In the event of a weather emergency during the school day, students will be held in their classrooms. If a student is outside during thunder and lightning or other significant weather event, they should seek shelter in the closest building as quickly as possible.

• Food and drink are not permitted in classrooms, Bent Center, McGehee Auditorium or the Swisher Library.
• Cups, plates, utensils, and napkins removed from the Verlander cafeteria or Bent Center Canteen must be returned to those areas. Failure to do so will result in consequences for littering.
• Chewing gum is not allowed on campus.

The School prohibits all forms of hazing. Hazing refers to any activity expected of a student to join or to continue membership or participation in any group where the activity produces or could be expected to produce mental, emotional, or physical discomfort, humiliation, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule to the student, regardless of the student's willingness to participate. Hazing activities include, but are not limited to, acts of personal servitude (i.e., forced labor or service), sleep deprivation, restrictions on personal hygiene, yelling, swearing, insulting or demeaning verbal abuse, being forced to wear embarrassing or humiliating attire, consumption of vile or other non-food substances, consumption of alcohol, smearing of skin with vile substances, brandings, writing or marking on one's skin or clothes, physical beatings, paddling or other physical abuse, performing sexual simulation or sexual acts, stunts or dares that could result in physical injury or harm to a person's mental, emotional or social well-being, any act in violation of the law or School policy, and any other activity that could fall within the definition of hazing. If you think a particular activity could possibly be hazing, then it probably is. If you are not sure, then you need to contact a member of the Deans' Office, the Associate Head of School or the Head of Upper School and ask.

A student or employee of the School violates this policy whenever they engage, assist, allow, or attempt to engage or assist in the planning or committing of any hazing activity, whether on or off School property. Each student or employee is also responsible for immediately reporting any hazing activity or plans for any hazing activity a member of the Deans' Office, the Associate Head of School or the Head of Upper School. The failure to make such a report is also a violation of this policy.

When the School administration becomes aware of any actual or planned hazing activity, the situation will be promptly investigated. Any student or employee found to have violated this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, including dismissal from the School for serious violations. No adverse action will be taken against any person who makes a good faith report of suspected hazing activity.

The Head of School and authorized staff members may search, using any methods determined to be effective and reasonable by the Head of School, a student's pockets, purse, backpack, gym bag, or other personal property, to include phone and electronic devices; student lockers, desks, or other School property; or student vehicles. No student may possess any illegal substance, object, or contraband that constitute a threat to the health, safety, or welfare of any person or persons on School property. Contraband includes any substance or materials prohibited by School policy or state or federal law, including but not limited to controlled substances, drugs, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, guns, knives, weapons, or incendiary devices. All items deemed to be illegal, illicit, disruptive, or a general nuisance to the educational process will be taken by staff. Storage, return, or the destruction of such items shall be at the discretion of the Head of School or the Head's designated agent. The cooperation of all students, parents/guardians, personnel, and guests will help ensure a safe environment for our children.

1. Messages to students during the school day are discouraged because they interrupt classes. If it is absolutely necessary for a parent/guardian to reach a student, please call the Deans' Office at 904-256-5040 and the message will be delivered as soon as possible.
2. Students needing to contact their parent(s)/guardian(s) during the academic day are encouraged to use the courtesy phone located on the second floor of the Bent Student Center. With permission, students can also visit the Deans’ Office to call their parents/guardians on their cell phone.
3. Deliveries of gifts, flowers, and balloon bouquets are strongly discouraged as they can be a distraction from academic work.

Since our students represent the School at all times, both on and off-campus, it should be understood that conduct which brings discredit to the student, their family, or the reputation of the School and its community may result in disciplinary action by the School.

Disciplinary measures are intended to reinforce the community’s expectations and to rectify the behavior. Consequences include:

1. A demerit is a penalty issued by a member of the Deans’ Office staff for an infraction. For each demerit, a student must attend Activities Duty on an assigned date. When assigned to Activities Duty, a student must report to a specified classroom and work on academic assignments throughout the period. Use of electronics is not permitted during Activities Period. More serious offences result in a higher number of demerits.  Every fifth demerit results in a Saturday Session rather than an Activities Duty.
         
Examples of offenses resulting in one demerit:
          Dress code violation
          Tardiness
          Gum chewing
          Cell phone out on campus
          Eating/drinking in class
          Failure to do Activities Duty
 
Examples of offenses resulting in two demerits:
          Unauthorized cell phone use
          Class disruption
          Wrong lunch
          Missing mandatory convocation
          Parking in unauthorized area*
          Inappropriate language
          Littering, to include lunch plates, cups, etc.
          PDA
          Technology misuse

Examples of offenses resulting in five demerits:
          Disrespect of student
          Disrespect of faculty/staff
          Leaving campus without permission
          Skipping class
          Repeated parking in unauthorized area* 
          Transporting underclassmen off-campus during school day
          Defacing school property
          Failure to sign in or out
          Reckless driving

*For parking violations, see Parking and Driving Violations below
** Refer to section on Abusive, Degrading or Vulgar Language and Conduct

2. A Saturday Session may result when a student fails to follow the rules and expectations of the School. The Deans' Office or Disciplinary Committee* can assign this. These sessions are held on designated Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

3. A suspension, whether in-school or at-home, may be assigned to students who fail to follow the rules and expectations of the School and/or accumulate 20 or more demerits. The Deans’ Office or Disciplinary Committee* can assign this consequence. Upon return to the community a student will be placed on probation, the duration and stipulations of which are determined based on the offense. As probation requires a student be free of any serious or severe disciplinary action during the defined duration, any violation will likely result in separation from the School.

Examples of more serious offenses, resulting in suspension or expulsion:
          Bullying**
          Harassment**
          Violation of nicotine, alcohol and drug policy
          Accumulation of 20 demerits

4.  For severe infractions, accumulation of 25 demerits, or repeated unacceptable behavior, a student may be referred to the Disciplinary Committee * and recommendations for action will be made by the committee to the President. The student will be suspended until the time that the Disciplinary Committee is able to convene and recommendations approved by administration.

5. In response to an egregious violation of a School policy, the Disciplinary Committee* or a member of the administration may make a recommendation of separation from the School. The President makes the final decision regarding separation and any appeal must be directed to that office.

It is important for students and families to understand that any consequences resulting from violation of School policies and rules may also affect opportunities in other areas of student life: student leadership in school or community organizations, eligibility to apply for or participate in school programs for current or future school years, membership in honor societies, etc.

*The Disciplinary Committee is a panel of faculty members who provide recommended consequences to the Head of School for review. The President makes the final decision when separation is recommended.

Random Drug Testing Program

As part of the School’s commitment to improving the health and wellness of our students and overall community, Upper School students in grades 9-12 participate in a random drug testing program throughout the academic year.  As a condition of continued enrollment, students and their parents/guardians agree to comply with all testing policies and procedures. In cooperation with our families, it is the School’s desire to assist our students in making good choices and to create a safer and healthier community.

A. Random Drug Testing Participants

1. All Upper School students in grades 9-12 are eligible to be selected for RDT.
2. Approximately 20-25% of the total student population will be tested each academic year.

B. Testing Method

1. The School uses a saliva-based test for random testing. The following are detectable through this test:
   Alcohol
   Amphetamine
   Barbiturates
   Benzodiazepines
   Buprenorphine
   Cocaine
   Fentanyl
   Marijuana
   Methadone
   Methamphetamine
   Nicotine
   Opiates
   Oxycodone
   Phencyclidine
   Synthetic Marijuana
2. Students who have a positive result in the random drug testing protocol with the saliva-based test will be placed in a non-random category, requiring future testing with a urine-based drug test.  The following are detectable through this test:
   Amphetamine
   Barbiturates
   Buprenorphine
   Cocaine
   Methamphetamine
   Ecstasy Opiates
   Methadone
   Oxycodone
   PCP
   Marijuana
3. Pre-test screenings and the administration of the tests are conducted in-house by a trained and certified member of the nursing staff in the Student Health Center.

C. Testing Procedures

1. On the designated testing day, the nursing staff is provided with a computer-generated list of students randomly selected to participate.  Students who have previously tested positive will also be considered for retesting. 
2. Students are notified in a discreet manner of their selection to be tested. Every effort is made to minimize the impact on the academic day and students are provided with the opportunity to make up missed work, if applicable.
3. Students being tested have the opportunity to inform the test administrators confidentially of the following prior to submitting to the test through the completion of a student signed, pre-screening questionnaire:
   a.  I will provide a negative test during this collection.
   b.  I will provide a positive test result because I take prescription medication. If not already on file with the School, I will provide evidence that I have a prescription for that medication.
   1) Students who acknowledge that they take a prescribed medication that could give a positive result will be tested.
   2) Students who test positive for any other illegal substance not prescribed by a physician will have their parents/guardians contacted.  They will also be placed in the appropriate Action Plan, as outlined below.
4. Students refusing to test, deciding to leave the School after being notified of their selection, or attempting to tamper with, alter or invalidate the testing process will face disciplinary consequences up to and including dismissal. 

D. Action Plans for a Positive Drug Test

1. Testing Positive on a Random, Saliva-based Test

1. Parents/guardians will be contacted by the Upper School Head or the Associate Head of School and required to come to campus to pick up their child. 
2. Discussion with the parent/guardian will include:
   1) Recommended contract-based intervention, including a drug and alcohol assessment and sessions with a licensed professional in the mental health field (LMHC, LCSW, Psychologist, Psychiatrist).
   2) Additional resources in the community focused on assisting families with a variety of support options.
3. All expenses related to the optional substance abuse evaluation and counseling sessions will be the responsibility of the student’s parents/guardians.
4. The student will face no disciplinary consequences and no additional search will be performed.
5. The student will be removed from the random pool of the student population and be non-randomly tested in the future, without prior notice, using a urine-based drug test.  This expectation will exist for the duration of the student’s tenure at the school.
6. f) As the goal of the RDT program is improving the health and wellness of our students, a first positive will be considered an opportunity for discussion and early intervention. As such, with a first positive, only the nurse, nurse’s assistant (if applicale) and the Upper School Head will be aware of the test result. Students are encouraged to keep this a personal matter as well and not to discuss with others.

2. Testing Positive on a Non-random, Urine-based Test

1. Parents/guardians will be contacted by the Upper School Head or the Associate Head of School and required to come to campus to pick up their child.
2. A discussion with parents will include:
   1) Mandatory contract-based intervention including a drug and alcohol assessment and sessions with a licensed professional in the mental health field (LMHC, LCSW, Psychologist, Psychiatrist).
   2) Additional resources in the community focused on assisting families with a variety of support options.
3. The parents/guardians must sign a release of information allowing communication between the School’s counselor and the licensed professional in the mental health field.
4. All expenses related to the substance abuse evaluation and counseling sessions will be the responsibility of the student’s parents/guardians.
5. The student will immediately be suspended from all school activities.
6. In accordance with disciplinary action consistent with school policy, the student’s belongings, locker and/or vehicle will be subject to search the day of the test.
7. The student will be placed on probation for a period of one calendar year, after which time, the probationary status will be reevaluated by the School Administration and the Counseling Staff.  The probationary status may require the student/School to report the infraction to colleges/universities/scholarship organizations.
8. The student and their parents/guardians will meet with the Head of Upper School (or a designee) to discuss the student’s health as well as their desire to remain a part of the Bolles community. 
9. The student will continue to be drug tested without prior notice. 

3. Testing Positive a Second Time on a Non-Random, Urine-based Test

1. Parents/guardians will be contacted by the Upper School Head or the Associate Head of School and required to come to campus to pick up their child. 
2. The student will immediately be suspended from all school activities.
3. The student and his/her parents/guardians will meet with the Head of School (or a designee) to discuss the disciplinary options available to the family.

E. Contesting a Positive Result

If a student who tests positive for an illegal substance wishes to challenge the results of a drug test, he/she will have 12 hours after the parents/guardians are notified.  The parent/guardian or student if 18 or older should submit the request in writing to the Head of Upper School. For a challenge, the School will require a urine test at a mutually agreed upon testing location.

F.  Confidentiality and Maintenance of Test Results

1. Students will be assigned a unique identification number created solely for the purpose of the RDT.  Student names, student ID numbers, birthdays, etc. will not be recorded on the testing kit. 
2. With a first positive, only the parents/guardians, the Associate Head of School, Head of Upper School, and the nursing staff will be aware of the results. In the event of a second positive, the School will make every effort to maintain confidentiality of results, with the understanding that additional school personnel will be advised on a need-to-know basis.
3. The School will maintain the confidentiality of all test results and will not share or distribute any information to any outside source without the signed, written consent of the student’s parents/guardians or student if 18 or older, or as otherwise required by law, including a valid subpoena.
4. All used testing materials will be disposed of according to proper medical guidelines.

G.  Consent to Test

1. Students and their parents/guardians understand the purpose and reason for universal, random drug testing and consent to such testing is a part of the enrollment contract.
2. Students and their parents/guardians will release and hold harmless the School, its trustees, employees, agents and representatives, and any individual or entity that the School retains to effectuate this policy, from any and all liability, claims, and damages relating to and/or arising out of the administration of this policy, including, but not limited to, any claims arising out of alleged negligence on the part of such parties.

Any student reasonably suspected of being under the influence of an illegal substance on campus or at a school event is subject to testing. Students demonstrating such behavior will be subject to either the same testing used in the RDT program or a breathalyzer test. If the test is positive, no further testing is necessary. If the test is negative, the School will require urine testing at a mutually agreed upon testing location. Parents/guardians will be contacted by the Upper School Head or the Associate Head of School and required to come to campus to pick up their child. 

In addition, the student’s belongings, locker and/or vehicle will also be subject to search. Students who test positive or are found in possession of an illegal substance will be issued disciplinary action consistent with school policy up to and including dismissal. 

The neatness and cleanliness of the campus, including the Cafeteria and Canteen, classrooms, bathrooms, hallways, patios, and all other areas of the School, are the responsibility of The Bolles School students and staff, and we ask everyone’s help in maintaining the beauty of the campus.

Students and clubs wanting to display posters, flyers, etc. must receive permission from the Assistant Head of Upper School.  No materials are to be attached in any way to a painted surface.

Skates, skateboards, hoverboards, scooters or other such devices are prohibited on any of the Bolles campuses. This policy is in effect year-round, 24-hours a day.

1. The Bolles School is a tobacco-free and alcohol -free environment. Smoking, chewing tobacco, and/or vaping are not permitted anywhere on campus or at School functions.
2. Student possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages of any kind is prohibited.
3. The possession, sale, exchange, or use of illegal drugs and/or paraphernalia is prohibited.
4. The abuse, exchange, or sale of prescribed, legal, over-the-counter medications or herbal remedies is prohibited.
5. Violation of any of the above rules will result in disciplinary action that may include probation, suspension, or expulsion from the School.
6. The faculty, administration, and Board of Trustees recognize that many factors may lead to abuse of the substances mentioned above. When there is reason to believe that a student may be taking risks, the School will reach out to parents about our concern. In those instances where student behavior strongly indicates drug or alcohol use, the administration may refer the student to the suspicion-based protocol and/or require professional intervention and subsequent treatment in order for the student to continue enrollment at the School.

The Department of Safety, Security and Transportation is responsible for all parking on the San Jose Campus and in that capacity issues student parking assignments.  The Department of Safety, Security and Transportation partners with the Deans’ Office Upper School to regulate and enforce parking policy. 
  
 All motor vehicles driven or parked on campus are required to have registered and be assigned a parking permit.  Registration ensures that there is fair and equitable parking for both employees and students.  All drivers must adhere to all traffic directional patterns, regulatory signs and drive at a safe speed, be aware of pedestrians, low speed vehicles and other motorists.

For additional student parking information please reference the “Student Campus Parking 2023-24” on our website.

1. Parking
a. Entry to each parking lot is monitored each morning. To gain entrance to the lot assigned, a student must display a student hanging parking permit tag on the review mirror facing so the permit is clearly visible from the front windshield of the vehicle.

b. The traffic lanes nearest to Schultz Hall are considered fire lanes. No parking is permitted in the fire lanes during the day. These lanes may be barricaded during the academic day.
  
c. No faculty parking areas are available for student parking during the academic day.
  
d. All cars parking on campus must be registered with the Security Office and must park in their assigned lots.
  
e. Unregistered cars or cars improperly parked on campus may result in the forfeiture of any present or future parking privileges by the driver.
  
f. Student cars are not to be used as lockers. Students are not allowed in the parking lots during the school day, with the exception of seniors who have open campus privileges.
  
g. Student cars that have not been assigned to a lot must park off-campus on San Jose Boulevard. Students going to these cars during the day are considered to be off campus illegally.
  
h. Students are not permitted to park on the residential streets next to campus. This could result in the student's forfeiture of any present or future campus parking privileges.

i. For the safety of our lower school students, there should be no student-driven automobiles on the Whitehurst Campus during the school day. This may result in the permanent forfeiture of the student's campus parking privileges.
  
j. Students are discouraged from parking along the east side of San Jose Boulevard, especially in front of the San Jose Episcopal Day School.
  
k. Students should use the designated crosswalks when walking on to or leaving the main campus each day. Students are also reminded to be alert and avoid using their cell phones while walking.  

2. Student Two-Wheel Vehicles
The riders of two-wheel vehicles are expected to enter and leave the campus in an orderly manner, obeying traffic rules.

3. Parking and Driving Violations
a. The Deans' Office in partnership with the Department of Safety, Security and Transportation will handle parking and driving violations.

b.  Violations will be handles as follows: (updated to begin February 5, 2024)
All demerits already incurred during the 2023-24 school year will apply to the following updated consequences:      

1. 2 demerits and loss of on-campus parking for 5 school days
2. 5 demerits and loss of on-campus parking 20 additional school days
3. 5 demerits and loss of on-campus parking for remainder of the current semester and the subsequent semester. If the violation occurs in the second semester of the junior year, the student will be ineligible to apply for a parking pass for the senior year.

4. Parent/Guardian-Driven Cars

a. Student Pick-up/Drop-off
Students who are driven to school should be dropped off and picked up on the west side of the island which runs parallel to Schultz Hall. For safety reasons, please do not drop off passengers in any faculty lot (Lot B), in the student lot (Lot C) or in the area next to the Campus Store (Lot D). Additional traffic in this area can cause teachers to be delayed in going to class and meetings.

b. Visitor/Guest Parking
Because all parking is assigned, parents wishing to visit campus are encouraged to park in the designated diagonal visitor spaces located in Lot C, directly in front of Schultz Hall. If these are unavailable, parents are welcome to park in the Special Events area. All other parking lots are assigned to Bolles faculty, staff, and students.

c. Special Events parking
The Special Events parking lot is located next to Skinner-Barco Stadium and between Cain Gym and the Tarver Pool. This area is reserved for parents and friends attending functions and meetings on campus during the academic day.

4. Bus Transportation
Bolles has established rules for bus conduct. These regulations will be given to each rider at the beginning of the school year. These Student Conduct Guidelines can be found on the Bolles website. They are an extension of our School code of conduct and violations are reported to the Head of Campus. Repeated violations may result in the offender not being permitted to continue riding the bus. When school transportation is provided for any school-sponsored activity, sporting event, field trip, etc., students are required to use the transportation provided by the School. If an extenuating circumstance necessitates that a student be transported to or from an activity where school-sponsored transportation is provided, the student will only be allowed to be transported by his/her parent(s)/guardian(s). In such a case, the parent(s)/guardian(s) must notify the coach or sponsor at least a day in advance, and they must pick the student up in person. Such arrangements should also be pre-approved by the athletic director, activities director, or sponsor. Students are not allowed to ride with other students or parents/guardians other than their own when School transportation is provided.

Visitors
All visitors without a current parking decal must be cleared by the Raptor Technologies at the Welcome Center at the entrance to campus.
Alumni visiting campus must report to the Deans’ Office.

8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, during the academic year. Please check for hours during sporting events and summer break.

Paperbacks, workbooks, and writing supplies (binders, paper, pens, and pencils) are available in the campus store, as are Bolles items.

The mental and physical well-being and safety of our students is of paramount importance to the School. As such, there may be times when concerns might arise about emotional issues, substance abuse, or other matters that may adversely impact the welfare or safety of a student or those around them.

There are two full-time counselors available to meet with students individually or in groups. Students are encouraged to reach out to the counselors for support and during the school day may drop in or contact the counselors by email or Schoology message in advance for an appointment.

If a student or other member of the community is concerned about a student, they are encouraged to contact a counselor directly or through the Concern Line email or phone line +1 904 256-5311.

If a member of the Bolles community has concern about a student’s emotional well-being, the School may require that a student be evaluated by an independent mental health professional approved by the School. This evaluation could include drug and/or alcohol screening. Circumstances may call that an evaluation and report be shared with a Bolles Counselor for review before the student is permitted to return to School.

Our school's library is a shared workspace; it is open to the entire campus for completing coursework, meeting study groups or relaxing and reading. We often welcome visiting families, alumni, and special guests while they tour our campus. 

The library and testing room are open from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m. – 3:10 p.m. on Friday. Visit us online HERE for more information, including expectations for our shared library and workspaces.

1. Items left unattended on the campus are placed in the Deans' Office.
2. Items can be claimed with proper identification of the item.
3. At the end of each semester, unclaimed items are donated or disposed of.

Lockers are assigned to each student. Locks are available in the Campus Store. There are also athletic lockers available in-season, where PE or athletic clothing is to be kept. Athletic gear is to be stored under the canopy outside of Cain Gym. To ensure safekeeping of personal items students are encouraged to use a lock.

New and used textbooks are available for online purchase through the Bolles Virtual Bookstore. Customers access the Bolles Virtual Bookstore here (BNC K-12).

Textbook Returns and Refunds
BNC K-12 allows books/materials (new or used) to be returned within 14 days of the course start date or the date received (whichever is later) for a full refund. Details are available online at the Bolles Virtual Bookstore or by calling BNC K-12.

New course materials must be returned in new condition (without any kind of writing or marking) to receive a full refund. Returned books should be shipped UPS ground or insured mail. Postage on returns is not refundable.

Buyback Procedures
All books having resale value will be bought back as “used.” The buyback deadline is usually in mid-June. Books may be sold online at www.bnck-12.com or by calling BNC K-12 at 1 (800) 325-3252 to obtain a quote by e-mail or mail, along with a prepaid shipping label. If the books have resale value, shipping instructions will be given during the phone call.

1. The School sponsors several major student-planned events each year, including the Winter Dance and Prom. Students may attend as individuals, with a date, and/or in a group. All non-Bolles guests must have a Guest Approval form and copy of an ID on file with Bolles prior to the announced deadline.

2. Off-campus School events must fulfil the following requirements:

a. All events and activities sponsored by Bolles organizations must be approved by the Head of Upper School and Activities Coordinator.  

b. School transportation is required for all School-sponsored off-campus events. Only the Head or Assistant Head of Upper School can grant exceptions to this rule.

c. Students attending away athletic events should conduct themselves as they would for an on-campus athletic event.

1. Student Council
This student group acts as the liaison between the student body and the administration. Student Council representatives are elected by their peers semi-annually with the number varying by grade. There are 4 freshmen representatives, 5 sophomores, 6 juniors and 7 seniors. Class presidents are elected annually.

2. Honor Council

The job of this group is to uphold the Bolles Honor Code and to help students understand their responsibility to maintain the School’s expectations of integrity on campus, in the classroom and with their work. Students apply for a position on the Council.

3. Club Council

All student clubs are annually approved and governed by the Club Council. This group of 12 students are selected through an application process and serve for the duration of their high school experience.
 

Student clubs at Bolles are student derived and student driven. Clubs are chartered at the beginning of the academic year and must meet specific requirements to be considered active. Student clubs cannot discriminate against anyone joining for any reason. Every club has a faculty sponsor to assist when needed, but the responsibility of the running of the organization falls largely on the student leaders.

Student clubs fall into several categories:

a. Community Service Clubs
Through chartered service clubs such as Dreams Come True, Surfriders and ALS Club, and through individual initiatives, service opportunities are made available to every student.

Community Connections is a special organization open to any Bolles student interested in becoming regularly involved with children from a local after-school care center. Activities may include athletics, arts and crafts or music activities, tutoring or recreation activities.

Via a link on the Schoology page of each class/grade, students self-report their service hours. If a student volunteers for more than 20 hours with an agency, contact information for someone within that organization will be needed for verification. That contact information can be entered on the online form.

All freshmen will participate in a service experience called Make a Difference Day. They will be introduced to the practice of volunteering and to numerous local charities.

b. Academic Clubs
French, Spanish, Japanese, Latin, Chinese, and Arabic interest clubs are open to grades 9-12. The aim of each club is to promote further interest in the language and culture. Participation in local and state language meetings, conferences, and competitions is encouraged. Some school service projects are undertaken.  Additionally, there may be math, science and/or English related clubs.

c. Special Interest Clubs
The number and kinds of special interest clubs vary from year to year. Some of the currently chartered include The Video Production, RunLife and American Sign Language clubs.

School organizations: There are a few school organizations that are managed by faculty that may require applications or try-outs. Examples of these from recent years include the Debate Club, Student Council, the Robotics Teams, Junior Mentors, Model UN Team, and Brain Brawl.

Throughout the year, various student committees are created to organize school spirit events such as Homecoming and Spring Week, plan social gatherings like Winter Dance, Prom and Field Days, and develop student run programs. Students are encouraged to join these groups to help develop leadership in themselves, plan some fun and impact the Bolles community.

Through involvement in the above, students are exposed to a wide range of leadership opportunities.

There are additional leadership groups that are run by outside entities that solicit student nominations by the school. These include but are not limited to Youth Leadership Jacksonville, the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Foundation, and Joe Berg Scholars. All nominations are funneled through the Assistant Head of Upper School for these programs.

The school yearbook, Turris, school newspaper, Bugle, and literary magazine, Perspective, are created and produced in elective courses.  See the Curriculum Guide for information.

As a parent/guardian of a student at Bolles, you are automatically a member of the Parent Association.  The Bolles Parent Association offers parents/guardians the opportunity to become involved in the life of the School. Parent/guardian volunteers on our four campuses work together to coordinate school-wide events and projects, and plan and produce events on individual campuses.

The Parent Association sponsors events such as Grandparent Days, Faculty/Staff Appreciation Days, new parent/guardian activities, academic grants, parent/guardian education programs, grounds improvements, etc. on all campuses. In addition, parents/guardians raise funds for the School through the Parent Fund and the Tuition Drawing.

Parent/guardian involvement is essential to the continued success and growth of the School, and parents/guardians are encouraged to actively participate in the Parent Association. For more information about the Parent Association and opportunities to volunteer, under Quicklinks select Parent, or call the Parent Association line at +1 904 256-5045, or fill out the parent volunteer form.

Requests for student records and transcripts must be directed in writing to the Academic Office. The School reserves the right to withhold student transcripts and records for non-payment of tuition or fees.

The School makes reasonable efforts to ensure that both parents/guardians receive the same information (advisor or teacher communication, transcripts, records, etc.). The School must rely upon the accuracy and completeness of parent/guardian contact information when the student is enrolled. To avoid confusion, please limit email contact to one personal and one professional address per parent/guardian. To update new contact information, contact the Registrar.

In situations of divorced or separated parents/guardians, if one parent/guardian believes that the other parent/guardian is not entitled to receive certain information, the parent/guardian wishing to restrict information provided by the School must provide the School with a court order that is still in effect that specifically restricts the other parent/guardian from receiving such information.

As an educational institution, Bolles is bound by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).  As such, when a student reaches the age of 18, they are asked to sign an authorization release waiver so that the School is able to release educational information to the parent(s)/guardian(s). 

As required by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) dated October 30, 1987 (40 CFR Part 763, Subpart E), The Bolles School retained a consultant to perform inspections of our buildings for asbestos-containing building material. Section 763.93 (g)(4) of the AHERA regulations requires us to notify you annually of the availability of our asbestos management plan for your review. The inspection findings and an asbestos management plan are on file, and available for your review, in our Operations Office.

Section 763.92(b) of the AHERA regulations requires us to perform periodic surveillance of the asbestos material every six months. Asbestos inspectors perform these surveillances, and an accredited management planner reviews the results of the surveillances every three years. No significant changes in the asbestos material were noted during the most recent surveillance of our school.

Asbestos presents a health hazard only when fibers become airborne and are inhaled. The mere presence of asbestos material does not present a health hazard. The Bolles School has significantly reduced asbestos material, and where it does exist it is fully encapsulated. The asbestos material meets all AHERA safety standards, and we will continue to manage and or remove the material in place, as recommended by the accredited management planner.