If you have a question about whether an item should be brought to
school, contact school administration.
The school is not responsible for lost, traded, stolen or damaged
items that should not be in school according to this guideline.
Items that pose a nuisance may be confiscated and returned at a
later time. There may be additional discipline as determined by
school administration.
Special notice regarding electronic items: With the growing popu-
larity of mobile phones and other electronic devices, parents and
guardians should be aware that schools are not responsible for
lost, stolen or damaged items – no matter how expensive. Students
who choose to bring these to school do so at their own risk. Keep in
mind that elementary schools do not have lockable lockers, and
that any item causing a disruption may be taken away at the
teacher’s (or other staff member’s) discretion to be returned at a
later time.
Searching lockers and desks
Student lockers and desks are property of the school and school
district and therefore can be searched by school personnel.
Also see search and seizure in the district discipline policy on
page 32.
Canine building and grounds sweeps
at the secondary level
To ensure the safety of all Anoka-Hennepin students and staff,
building administrators often partner with law enforcement to
conduct canine sweeps of parking lots and lockers. These
sweeps occur randomly throughout the year and their intention
is to prevent individuals from bringing chemicals or controlled
substances on school property. We want to do all we can to
ensure a safe and productive learning environment.
Dress code
Schools follow the dress code policy that is spelled out in the
district discipline policy in sections II.B and III.B.12 (pages 27 and
28). In brief, dress and grooming must meet standards of safety,
health and decency. Clothing, attire or personal grooming that dis-
rupts the educational process or that violates common standards
of decency as they apply to a school setting are not permitted.
Upon approval of school administration, head coverings and hats
may be worn for special events, medical or religious reasons.
For physical education, elementary students must wear
white-soled tennis shoes. Because of safety concerns slip-on
tennis shoes are not permitted. Dark-soled tennis shoes are not
allowed. Also, jewelry, accessories and certain other apparel may
be prohibited for reasons of safety during physical education as
well as lab classes.
Elementary students go outside for recess, so in the winter
months it is important to dress your child in warm winter wear,
such as winter coats, hats, scarves, gloves or mittens, and boots.
See “Cold weather questions and answers,” on page 7.
2019-20 School Handbook
ahschools.us/policies
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
Alternative programs for middle and high
school students
The Anoka-Hennepin School District offers alternative programs
for high school and middle school students who do not excel
in traditional school settings. Students are referred to these
programs from their high school or middle school.
The secondary programs offer:
• Academic high school courses using small group,
individualized or computerized instruction.
• Elective courses that meet diploma credit requirements.
• Vocational exploration.
• Independent study curriculum that will work in conjunction
with classes offered in the program.
The school district offers alternative education programs with
high expectations for students:
• COMPASS Programs serve students in grades K through 12,
for more information call 763-506-1560.
• Anoka-Hennepin Regional High School, 1313 Coon Rapids
Blvd. NW, Coon Rapids, 763-506-7400, serves students in
grades 10 through 12. This is a full-day program. Work experi-
ence classes, transportation and lunch are available.
• Anoka-Hennepin Technical High School, 1355 W Highway 10,
Anoka, MN 55303, 763-576-7960, which serves ages 18
through 21. This campus focuses on college and career readi-
ness while completing a diploma. Flexible scheduling includes
full-day, half-day and online courses. Additional programming is
available through work seminar options along with partnerships
at STEP, Anoka-Ramsey Community College, University of
Minnesota and other colleges in the area. Breakfast and lunch
are provided as well as full transportation from each of the
district’s high schools.
Students can self-refer to these alternative schools or be re-
ferred by their principal or counselor. The program is designed
for students who need a smaller class setting, more flexibility or
for those who are not being successful in a traditional school.
For more information on alternative programs in Anoka-Hen-
nepin contact the principal of Anoka-Hennepin Regional High
School, 763-506-7400.
Students who qualify for alternative education should have a
referral from their previous high school or can self-refer for
consideration into the program.
Right to free education until 21 years of age
Students who do not complete academic and course graduation
requirements or meet state standards as measured by course
performance, and/or the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments
(MCA's), are entitled to a free education through 21 years of age.
Options for success in high school or to
return and earn a diploma
The Graduation Incentives program is designed to encourage high
school students who are not succeeding in the traditional school
or who have dropped out of school to choose from a variety of
nontraditional education programs to be successful in school.
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