High School Student Handbook

Integrity is essential to excellence both in education and life. Assessments and other schoolwork are measures of a student's academic performance. Honesty is required to ensure an accurate measurement of a student's academic knowledge.

Student work must be evaluated on what the student knows and can do in order for the student and their family to have a clear and accurate accounting of the student's mastery of the material. When a student chooses to cheat and/or plagiarize on schoolwork, they compromise integrity and project an inaccurate picture of their performance. As such, academic integrity violations will include both academic and disciplinary responses. 

Academic Dishonesty

• All academic dishonesty incidents will be reported and documented in Infinite Campus. A contract must be completed by a student, teacher, parent/guardian and administrator prior to the student being able to make-up any assignment/assessment. 
• An academic dishonesty incident may result in disciplinary responses and/or loss of credit (see Academic Integrity policy).  

Examples of Academic Dishonesty

• Copying vs. Collaboration -  At times, students will work together on assignments. Understanding the distinction between copying another’s work and collaborating on an assignment is important. SHS teachers are responsible for informing their respective students as to the appropriate protocol regarding collaboration.

Disclaimer: If a teacher does not clearly state that an assignment is collaborative, all work that the student completes should be independently created and not obtained from any other source including, but not limited to, classmates.

• Cheating - Cheating is when a student is unauthorized to use information, materials, devices, sources or practices in completing academic activities. Examples might include:
  • Copying any portion of another student’s homework with or without their permission.
  • Viewing and/or copying answers from another student’s test or quiz.
  • Being responsible for, or partaking in, the transference of confidential information. (i.e., test answers or test/quiz copies).
  • Utilizing written or electronically stored information that is pertinent to a test, quiz or class activity, without consent from a teacher.
  • Allowing one’s work to be copied by another student.
  • Having someone else do an assignment that was meant to be done alone.
• Plagiarism - This is when a student submits work for credit that includes the product, words, ideas or data of others and the source is not acknowledged by the use of complete, accurate and specific references. By placing one’s name on work submitted for credit, the student certifies the originality of all work not otherwise identified by appropriate acknowledgements. On written assignments, if verbatim statements are included, the statements must be enclosed by quotation marks or set off from regular text as indented extracts. A student will avoid being charged with plagiarism if there is an acknowledgement of sources of information whenever one:
  • Quotes another person’s actual words or replicates all or part of another’s product.
  • Cuts and pastes another person’s actual words.
  • Uses another person’s ideas, opinions, work, data, or theories, even if they are completely paraphrased in one’s own words.
  • Borrows facts, statistics, or other illustrative materials - unless the information is common knowledge.
  • Submits their own work that was created for a different class/assignment.

• Artificial Intelligence Usage Expectations - The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in academic work must adhere to the same standards of integrity as traditional methods. Students are expected to:

  • Acknowledge the use of AI tools in their work, clearly indicating how these tools were utilized.
  • Ensure that any AI-generated content used in assignments is integrated appropriately and not presented as original work unless explicitly permitted.
  • Avoid submitting AI-generated material as their own without proper attribution.

Violations of these expectations regarding AI use will be treated as academic dishonesty and will result in the same consequences as other forms of cheating or plagiarism.

Prior to registration, students will have an opportunity to express their preference for Academy placement through 9th Grade Seminar.  All students will be placed in an Academy based on the following procedure:

• Students will complete a survey and rank their level of preference for an Academy. 
• Students and parents/guardians will be notified of their placement.
• Sophomores may request a change of Academy assignment prior to the registration process for 11th grade.  A student may request a change of their Academy assignment during the registration process for 12th grade, but requests will only be granted in the case of unusual or extenuating circumstances.  

Below are the different high school awards that recognize student academic achievements. GPAs are not rounded when determining awards. The weighted GPA is used to determine the awards.

Academic Lettering

Students in grades 9-12 who meet the grade point and course criteria listed below will be awarded an Academic Letter.

• Grade Point: For grades 9-11, a student must have a weighted GPA of 3.80 or higher for the previous academic year (awarded in the fall).
  • For grade 12, the student must have a weighted GPA of 3.80 or higher for quarters 1 & 2 in the current academic year (awarded in the spring). Students with only semester-long courses for first semester must have a weighted GPA of 3.8 or higher for quarter 2. 

• Course Criteria
  • Must have taken 2 courses with a weighted GPA, through completion, in the previous school year. For seniors, students must have two courses with a weighted GPA in their schedule for the year.
  • First time academic-letter winners receive a chenille letter S and chenille academic bar.  Students who have previously lettered in athletics or activities receive an academic chenille bar the first time they letter in academics. Once students have received a chenille academic bar, they will each receive a gold bar in the succeeding year(s).

Advanced Placement Scholar Awards

The Advanced Placement (AP) Program offers four levels of AP Scholar Awards to recognize outstanding student performance on AP Exams.  The AP Scholar Awards are based on the number of AP exams taken and the scores earned on those exams. The College Board uses the following criteria:

• AP Scholar qualifies by scoring 3 or higher on 3 or more AP exams.
• AP Scholar with Honors averages 3.25 or higher on 4 or more exams.
• AP Scholar with Distinction averages 3.5 or higher on 5 or more exams.
• National AP Scholar scores 4 or more on 8 or more exams.

Graduation Awards

Graduating seniors may be recognized as honor graduates by attaining one of three standards at the end of quarter three in their senior year.   All three groups of students receive honor cords.

• Cumulative GPA between 3.3 and 3.59 are Commended Graduates.
• Cumulative GPA between 3.6 and 3.79 are Honor Graduates.
• Cumulative GPA above 3.8 are High Honors Graduates.

Honor Roll

Shakopee High School’s “A” honor roll is for students with a quarter grade average of 3.70 weighted. The “B” honor roll is based on a quarter grade average of 2.70 weighted.

National Honor Society

National Honor Society (NHS) is a nationally recognized student recognition program. Students selected for NHS demonstrate achievement in scholarship, character, leadership, and service.

At Shakopee, juniors and seniors with a 3.3 GPA are eligible for NHS upon completion of an application form and selection into the organization. Eligible students are rated by the teachers on character, leadership and service. A faculty committee uses the teacher ratings to make the final decisions on membership. Students who meet the criteria are invited to join NHS.

National Merit Scholarship Program

High school juniors enter the National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®).  50,000 students with the highest PSAT/NMSQT® Selection Index scores (calculated by doubling the sum of the Reading, Writing and Language, and Math Test scores) qualify for recognition in the National Merit® Scholarship Program. 

Students are notified starting in September if they qualify for recognition and the opportunity to continue in the National Merit Scholarship Competition.

• National Commended Student: The top 50,000 high scores on the PSAT/NMSQT.  These students do not continue in the competition to be a National Merit Scholar.
• National Merit Semifinalists: One of the top 16,000 scores in the nation on the PSAT/NMSQT.  Semifinalists are designated on a state representational basis.
• National Merit Finalist: One of 15,000 students selected.  Of these students, approximately half will qualify for one of three different types of merit scholarships. 
• National Merit Scholar: A student who wins one of the merit scholarships.  All winners are chosen based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments through an application process after being chosen as a National Merit Semi-finalist.

Presidential Award (awarded in the spring of 12^th grade)

Students will be awarded the Presidential Award if the 12^th grade student has demonstrated:

• 3.5 or greater cumulative GPA through the fall of 12^th grade.
• 90^th percentile or greater on at least one state or national test taken during high school.

Canvas is the online learning management system (LMS) used by students in grades 6-12.  Every teacher has their own Canvas page for their specific course content.  It can be accessed either through an app or the internet.  

Below are the main purposes for which students will utilize Canvas:

• Find assignment materials, resources and directions.These will be organized into modules by unit so students can focus on the materials in the current unit of study.
• Check the calendar with due dates for all courses.
• Turn in/Upload assignments and quizzes.
• View current grade for each course.

All students have their own Canvas accounts and are able to show their parents/guardians content through their own student account.  Parents/guardians are encouraged to set up their own account as well.  Access is available to every parent/guardian of a currently enrolled student.

Parent/guardian access is provided as a means to further promote educational excellence and to enhance communication with parents.  Every parent /guardian is expected to act in a responsible, ethical and legal manner. 

Users are required to adhere to the following guidelines:

• Do not share their passwords with anyone or set browsers to auto-login.
• Do not attempt to harm or destroy data on any district network.
• Do not use Infinite Campus or Canvas for any illegal activity, including violation of Data Privacy laws. 
• Do not access data or any account owned by another parent or user.

Users who identify a security problem with Infinite Campus or Canvas must notify the office immediately.  Please do not demonstrate this problem to anyone else.

Users who are identified as a security risk to Infinite Campus, Canvas or any other ISD 720 computers or networks, will be denied access.

Conferences are structured to provide parents/guardians with an opportunity to meet and start a dialogue with teachers. Conferences will be held quarterly. Due to the number of families attending, each conference session will have a maximum time allowed.

An extended discussion is not possible, as we have asked parents and teachers to observe a five-minute time limit. If parents/guardians would like to talk more in depth, it is always possible to schedule an appointment with the teacher for a different date. Parents are encouraged to bring students to conferences.

The conference schedule (in-person or virtual) can be found on the website and are listed below. 

• September 29, 4:00-6:00PM, virtual
• October 1, 4:00-8:00PM, in-person
• December 10, 4:00-7:00PM, virtual
• February 23, 4:00-6:00PM, virtual
• February 25, 4:00-8:00PM, in-person
• May 6, 4:00-7:00PM, in-person

All students are expected to complete the total number of required minimum credits (see Graduation Requirements in Registration Guide) to graduate. 

Students completing all the requirements of the district for graduation will be awarded a diploma. In order to participate in the graduation ceremony, students must be within 2 credits of meeting all graduation standards on the last day of attendance for seniors (Board Policy 613).  Students are responsible for keeping track of their credits and monitoring their status for graduation. In our block schedule, any quarter-long course that is successfully completed will generally yield one semester credit.

If a student does not follow this Shakopee High School credit plan, the student must be on track to graduate with their cohort. Please refer to the latest registration guide for additional details on classes, graduation requirements, credits, etc.

Credit for Prior Learning

In order to satisfy the academic standards for the Credit for Prior Learning, students must be enrolled in Shakopee Public Schools and be able to demonstrate that they have met all of the standards associated with the course in which they believe they are proficient. In addition, students must adhere to the following procedures:

• Meet with their assigned counselor.
• Complete an “Application for Credit for Prior Learning.”
• Submit the application to their counselor by the appropriate deadline for proper placement: August 15 for Quarter One AND December 1st for Quarter Three.

Extra Credit
Extra credit will not be factored into grade.

Repeating Credits

In order to graduate, students must pass all required classes. Students who fail a course and want to re-take it may do so as a full re-take or as part of the credit recovery program.

Students who receive a D+ or lower in a course may retake the exact course during the school day. The original grade will remain on the transcript, but only the most recent retaken course grade will count toward the student’s grade point average.

Additional Information: For Tokata Learning Center (TLC), SW Metro or any co-op or intermediate district in partnership with Shakopee High School, students must complete the SHS local graduation requirements, including the Academies of Shakopee Program of Study, to be eligible for a Shakopee High School diploma.

Volunteers are important partners in the education of students and there are many times that we need parent volunteers. Please consider sharing your time with the students and staff.

The team realizes that volunteering takes a different form at the high school level because of the unique characteristics of adolescent students. Be assured, though, that participation is needed and benefits everyone - students, school, community and those who volunteer. 

For more information about volunteer opportunities, contact the High School Main Office. Screening and safety guidelines apply for all volunteers.

Opportunities:

• Community Resource Speaker: Add your name to our file of community members willing to speak to classes about your occupation, hobby, ethnic heritage or travel experience. Share first-hand knowledge with students and enrich their learning.
• Tutor: Work with individual students, under the supervision of a teacher, to reinforce math, spelling, reading or writing skills.
• Learning Commons Support: Shelve books or assist students with research projects.
• Career Center: Help students access career, college and scholarship information.
• Special Projects: Assist office staff with bulk mailings or special events.
• Athletics Events Volunteer: Help at three athletic events and receive an activity pass.
• Band Boosters: Provide support for the band program and assist with band fundraising efforts.
• Dollars for Scholars: Assist with coordinating the annual community drive for scholarship funds.
• Senior Class Party: Help plan and coordinate the all-night graduation party which is planned and staffed entirely by parents and community members.
• Lunchroom Helper: Assist staff with lunchroom procedures.

Final exams may be added into the summative category OR separated into its own category. However, the % must not be over 10% of the total grade.

Grading policies are established to reflect Shakopee High School’s philosophy that grades are a reflection of learning and our commitment to EACH student’s learning.

The purpose of grading is to communicate to parents/guardians, students and the community the extent to which the student has met the objectives of a course. Letter grades are determined in each class as follows, unless agreed upon by the teacher and administration.

Grading Scale

• A: 93-100%
• A-: 90-92%
• B+: 87-89%
• B: 83-86%
• B-: 80-82%
• C+: 77-79%
• C: 73-76%
• C-: 70-72%
• D+: 67-69%
• D: 63-66%
• D-: 60-62%
• F: 0-59%
• Pass/No Credit system:  P = 60% or higher

A student’s academic grade in any course will be based on:

• A minimum of 80% Summative Assessment (Academic Performance) and the remaining percentage Formative Assessment (Academic Practice).*

Students must demonstrate proficiency of essential course standards to receive a passing grade.

Pass/fail grading may be assigned to a student by administration and/or counselors. These circumstances would include medical issues, hospitalizations and other situations deemed appropriate by the administration.

The guidelines for the pass/no credit option are:

• The student must continue to meet all classroom expectations after choosing the P/NC option or the option will be revoked and the student will be graded on an A - F scale. This includes completion of daily work, projects, and quizzes/tests. Class attendance is mandatory.

• The passing grade for all departments will be a “D-” (60%) of the accumulated points or grades for the term.

Weighted Grade

Grades will be weighted for nationally recognized programs such as College in the Schools and Advanced Placement Courses, Project Lead the Way and for comparable classes taken through the PSEO program.

Present courses include Advanced Placement classes and CIS classes. Grades will be weighted in the following way:

• Any “A” Grade, add 0.6 (A= 4 + 0.6= 4.6)
• Any “B” Grade, add 0.4
• Any “C” Grade, add 0.2
• No additions for D and F grades

*Note: Many colleges and universities request courses be taken for the grade.

*The Formative category (no more than 20% of the grade) deals with the practice work students do as they are going through the learning process.  This is the time the teacher introduces new material, conducts lessons, monitors learning, and adjusts instruction as needed based upon the results of Formative Assessments that the teacher has given the students.  A good analogy is to think of the Formative category as the practice/rehearsal leading up to the game/performance at the end of the week.

*The Summative category (no less than 80% of the grade) deals with the major assessments that the students perform that will demonstrate what they know and what they can do.  This would include chapter and unit tests, major essays, presentations, projects, labs, etc. A good analogy is to think of the Summative category as the game/performance at the end of the week after all the drill work, practice, rehearsal, instruction and re-teaching have taken place.

Grade Replacement/Course Retakes

Students who fail a course and want to retake it may do so as a full retake or as part of the credit recovery program. 

Option 1:  Students who receive a D+ or lower in a course may retake the exact same course [e.g. internal (SHS class) or external (Eden Prairie Online)]. 

Students who elect to retake the full course will earn a letter grade on the A-F grading scale. The original grade(s) will be changed to NC on the transcript, and only the most recent retaken course grade will count toward the student's grade point average.

For the situation above, decisions on whether a student can reuse work from the first attempt will be left to teacher discretion.

Option 2: Students who elect to take part in the credit recovery program will earn the credit on a pass/fail grading system. The original failing grade and the pass/fail grade will both appear on the transcript. The original failing grade will apply to the student's grade point average.

In either case, students must fill out the “Grade Replacement Form” to have the grade replaced.

Incompletes can be given to students who did not complete coursework due to extenuating circumstances that are beyond their control.

If students are missing Essential Learnings and Skills in the Summative Assessment (Academic Performance) category at the end of a term, the student grade may be reported as incomplete until the student completes those items. When a student earns a grade of “I” incomplete, it will be reflected in the computation of their new GPA as a zero. This zero remains until the grade is changed.

In order to resolve an incomplete, the student must make arrangements and sign a contract with the teacher to complete the missing work. 

If a student contracts with a teacher, the teacher stipulates what must be done and a deadline (a minimum of 2 weeks after the end of the term) for completion of the work. If the student contracts with the teacher and does not complete requirements by the contracted deadline, the student’s grade for the semester will be determined upon the work submitted up to that point. A failing grade may result. 

Late Work

Students will not have points deducted from formative or summative assessments when turning work in late.

For a College in the Schools (CIS) or Project Lead the Way (PLTW) course, grading requirements will follow the sponsoring institution’s expectations for submission.

Students may only take an independent study option for courses that are already designed and developed for credit in the Shakopee High School registration guide.

As a general rule, students will not be allowed to substitute an independent study class for a course that is offered and available to a student in their schedule.

Availability of independent study will depend on teacher availability and the student’s ability to be successful in an independent environment.

Students must make the independent study request and complete the necessary steps for approval within five days of the start of a quarter.

Students will receive Pass/Fail grades on courses taken through independent study. The credit will count as an elective credit and the student’s GPA will not be affected.

For more information about independent study options, students should see their counselor.

Developed with the Academies of Shakopee Steering Committee, this shared vision brings together the perspectives of education and industry to define what it means to be truly college and career ready. 

At Shakopee High School, students are resilient, responsible, resourceful and respectful.

Students are seen as communicators, creative problem-solvers, collaborative and culturally responsive.

My Place. My Path. My Future.

• Student-Centered & Engaged Learning Communities 
  • Connected to caring and diverse mentors 
  • Learning within a safe and secure learning environments and a personalized experience 
• Personalized, Real-World Learning 
  • Focused programs of study 
  • Emphasis on student agency, discovery and growth 
• Life & Career Pathway Ready 
  • Learning skills that last a lifetime 
  • Empowering solutions-focused, critical thinkers and professional communicators 

Report cards will be available online in Infinite Campus at the end of each quarter.  Credits are earned at the end of each 9 week quarter/grading period.

Retakes/redos apply to course-identified Essential Learnings and Skills assessed through a student’s Summative Assessment (Academic Performance).

Any Final Exam/Assessment for a course will not be subject to the retake/redo policy.   Procedures regarding retakes/redos will be consistent within a course and communicated by the teacher at the beginning of each term. 

When a student completes a redo/retake, a student will have the opportunity to receive up to 100% of the value for the summative assessment.  No points or percentages will be deducted from the value of the assessment. All late work, retakes/redos must be completed/submitted to one’s teacher by 3:00pm on the Friday prior to the end of each quarter.

Students who attend Saber Online and/or Eden Prairie Online courses will be assigned a space within the high school to engage in online class time, complete coursework, etc. All students will be expected to be on time to all online classes, regardless of location. 

If a student has two or more online courses via Saber Online or another online school, the student must work from home for online courses unless the student has permission from a school administrator to be in the building.

During their senior year, students who have at least 40 credits entering the first quarter and 46 credits entering the third quarter are eligible to participate in senior option. If a student meets the criteria they may, with parent/guardian permission, be excused from the first OR fourth block during the school day. Senior Option placement will be based on the master schedule availability.  

Senior students must have:

• Demonstrated to be on track for graduation with their grade-level cohort (within 12 credits of graduation for seniors).
• No behavior referrals.
• No attendance concerns with unexcused absences and fewer than 5 unexcused tardies.
• Continued progress towards graduation, including passing all current classes. Failing a class will result in the loss of senior option for the remainder of the year.

*Senior option may begin upon completion of paperwork and Academy Principal or Counselor approval, and the privilege can be revoked for disciplinary and/or attendance issues. 

Teachers are available to meet with students before and after school.  Students should communicate with their teachers to set up time to ask for help and get any questions answered related to assignments, quizzes or getting assessments made up.  

Students will be charged the replacement cost of any book lost or will be charged a fee for damage.  According to Minnesota Statutes 120.101:  “The school will charge an appropriate replacement fee for textbooks, workbooks or library books lost or destroyed by students.”

If a student moves out of the district and will be attending a different school, the school office should be informed as early as possible. Prior to withdrawing, students are required to return books, technology and materials to their teachers and counselors, pay accumulated fees, clean out their lockers and complete the withdrawal form provided by their counselor. 

For more information, please contact the High School Registrar.

The ARC is a space designed to support any and all students who need one-to-one or small group, independent learning, and small group testing.  It is located in C210 in the Learning Commons and students may access the ARC Monday through Friday (hours will vary throughout the year). To contact the ARC staff, please email: HS_ARC@shakopee.k12.mn.us.

There are a variety of athletic and non-athletic opportunities during the school year. It shall be the policy of Independent School District No. 720 to encourage its students to participate in co-curricular activities in order to enhance their total education. Keeping in mind, however, that their academic progress toward graduation is of the prime interest, any student of Shakopee Public Schools desiring to participate in a co-curricular activity must be making satisfactory progress toward graduation in order to be eligible for such participation.

All athletics and activities offered are listed on ShakopeeSabers.com.

Click here for an interactive brochure that includes a list of activities and athletics by season and grade.

Most athletic seasons consist of a seven-week season with 8-10 competitions. Competitions will be both home and away with bussing provided to all away contests.

At the beginning of each season:

• To participate in sports, clubs or activities, students need to be on track to graduate through the earning of credits.  
• Students who are academically ineligible for the season will be notified by the activities office.

During each semester:

• Shakopee teachers update grades bi-weekly.
• The Activities Office/Coaches/Advisors are to review this information weekly, and students who have a failing grade(s) become temporarily ineligible to participate in contests until all grades are passing or they demonstrate commitment to improving their grades through an eligibility “ticket” available online or in the Activities Office.  
• Students are expected to continue to participate in practice/rehearsal while improving their grades. 

Classes such as Art, PLTW and Band may collect a fee if a student wishes to keep a project that is done in class.  The individual teachers will give each student such information, if applicable.  

When field trips are taken, each school collects ticket fees, entrance fees, bus fees and/or permission slips from each student.  If a family needs financial assistance, support will be provided.

After-school sports and some clubs that meet after school may require a fee.  This fee may be waived in the case of financial need.  If a student is in need of financial assistance, please contact the Assistant Principal, Athletic Director at the High School or the Principal.

If attendance is impacting a student's academic performance, the student will meet with their academy principal and dean to discuss an attendance plan.

At Shakopee High School, we demonstrate the values and beliefs of Saber PRIDE: Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Enthusiasm:

Perseverance - We do not give up.

Respect - We care about ourselves and others.

Integrity - We are honest and truthful in our actions.

Diversity - We accept others' differences and uniqueness.

Enthusiasm - We show energy and excitement.

Saber PRIDE/Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports

Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is an approach to supporting students to be successful in school, as well as laying the foundation for building a positive school culture.  As a result, Shakopee High School has implemented a school-wide positive behavior interventions and support system that focuses on teaching and promoting expected positive behaviors amongst students as well as recognizing students who are engaging in behaviors that improve school culture.

Shakopee High School Students will:

• Participate fully in the learning experience, including curricular, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, from the moment they are on the bus until they return home and at all district activities and events.
• Participate actively in the learning experience by being fully engaged, being fully prepared, raising engaging questions and communicating effectively and positively with all students and staff.
• Participate actively in the learning experience by sharing information about themselves including strengths, weakness, and culture, to create common bonds in curricular, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities.
• Participate actively in the learning experience by respecting differences while asserting perhaps a divergent viewpoint, doing so without harm to the other students, staff, team, other leaders, and property.
• Demonstrate empathy (knowing others) to build fruitful relationships that create a cohesive learning opportunity for all and, through self-control, behave in an ethical manner from the moment they are on the bus until they are returned home.

If there is a concern with a teacher, reach out to a trusted adult in the building to help support. 

If a student demonstrates a lack of responsibility, respect, empathy or self control and disrupts the learning for other students, adults will:

• Redirect, work with, and ensure that the student fully understands the expectations.
• Create an accountability system with the student and parent/guardian with clear consequences or processes for resolution for additional violations.
• Work in partnership with family, students, staff and other significant adults to determine additional strategies and/or consequences.
• Determine if there are extenuating physical, emotional or mental challenges.
• Submit referral as required.
• Move to remove from class, suspension, or expulsion, as needed.

Shakopee High School Staff will create a culture of learning that includes:

• Opportunities for students to explore and construct their learning through choice, practice, trial, error and reworking.
• Knowing the students culturally and individually, by being fully cognizant of their strengths and interests.
• Co-creating classroom rituals that maximize learning bell-to-bell.
• Creating a climate that respects difference and allows for multiple perspectives without hurting others.
• Fostering opportunities for students to determine responsibility in meeting academic, social, and emotional expectations and in monitoring their self control.

If students demonstrate inappropriate behavior at school, an adult will seek to understand what happened, support the child in reflecting on their behavior and provide opportunities for restoring relationships, as applicable. 

In addition, specific consequences may be applied; parents/guardians may be contacted, depending on the nature of the behavior, frequency of the behavior and severity of the specific incident.            

Please refer to the  500 Student Policy series for additional discipline and bullying prohibition elements.

Before School 

All students will not be allowed in the building (other than for sanctioned events) more than 20 minutes prior to the start of the school day, which is 8:00 am at Shakopee High School.

After School

For safety and supervision purposes, students are expected to leave the building and campus by 3:30 p.m. unless they are participating in a school-sponsored activity, meeting with a staff member, or are in another designated supervised area.

Students who remain on campus without authorization will be asked to leave and may be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with school policies.

School dances held at Shakopee High School and sponsored by a class or organization of the high school shall be for 9th-12th grade students of Shakopee High School and guests (when permitted). Middle school students will not be admitted to high school dances. The following rules will apply to all dances:

• A Shakopee High School student may invite a guest (from another high school) to the dance. All guests must be in high school and under the age of 21. Guest forms must be submitted the Friday prior to the scheduled dance.
• Students must present a school ID, and guests must present a photo ID to be admitted to dances.

• School dance hours will be determined prior to the dance and posted publicly.

• Once a student leaves a dance, they will not be readmitted.

• The supervisor(s) of the dance reserves the right to refuse admittance to any Shakopee High School student.

• Students asked to leave the dance due to their actions will be referred to an administrator and may lose the privilege to attend future dances for up to one calendar year.

• Students under the influence of mood altering chemicals or alcohol will be detained, and parents/guardians and police will be called. Students will face regular school disciplinary action and will lose privileges to attend dances for one calendar year.

• Groups sponsoring dances must complete a dance request form. 

Students may only sell items for school-approved fundraisers. Students may not sell items during class.  The school cannot be responsible for any money students may have collected. Fundraising money should be kept with the faculty advisor. 

Any school-approved items must be sold prior to 8:15AM or after 3:05PM in the school building.

All visitors are required to report to the Main Office and provide picture identification.

Students may request a locker at one of the Academy Hub Offices.

Combinations should be carefully guarded and not shared with other students to minimize the possibility of property loss.

Student-assigned lockers and physical education and athletic lockers are to be locked at all times. It is strongly recommended students not leave large amounts of money or valuables in lockers. If a student is found to be responsible for damage to a locker, the cost of repairing damage to lockers may be charged to the student. Locker problems should be reported to the Student Support Hub.

The district cannot reimburse for stolen personal property, AND items left in lockers at the end of the school year will be donated to charity.

Under Minnesota law, school lockers are school district property. At no time does the school district relinquish its exclusive control of lockers provided for students’ convenience. School officials may inspect the interior of lockers for any reason at any time, without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant. 

Students’ personal possessions within a school locker may be searched only when school officials have a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover evidence of a violation of law or school rules. As soon as practicable after the search of a student’s personal possessions, the school officials will provide notice of the search to students whose lockers were searched, unless disclosure would impede an ongoing investigation by police or school officials.

In the event that a student has misplaced a personal item, there are several places to check. If the item is an electronic device such as a cell phone, iPod or calculator, students should check in the Main Office or with the School Resource Officer.

If the item is of lesser value, such as an article of clothing or book, students should check the lost and found.

Shakopee High School is part of a neighborhood. Such neighbors have every right to expect that their property (house, yard, cars, business, etc.) will be treated with respect. Therefore, SHS students are not to trespass on neighborhood businesses or private property.

Personal Items

Shakopee High School is committed to providing an environment free from distraction and focused on learning.  Often, items such as spinners, slime or other trendy toys become significant distractions, get stolen or become the primary focus of students over the intended attention to learning.  Such items are better suited for home use.  When improperly used in school, these items may be confiscated to be picked up later by a parent/guardian.  This is not to be confused with fidgets identified as accommodations for students as approved by case managers.  

Additionally, the personal possessions of students and/or a student’s person may be searched when school officials have reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover a violation of law or school rules. The search will be reasonable in its scope and intrusiveness. 

Electronics

Information is readily available and accessible through many different forms of technology. During class time, teachers may ask the students to take out a school-provided electronic device to enhance and/or aid in the lesson.

Electronic devices cannot be used in the bathrooms or locker rooms at any time.

Students may use personal electronic devices during passing times and while at lunch.

Personal electronic devices include, but are not limited to: Smart watches, iPads, iPods, laptops, cell phones, Kindles, e-books, tablets. 

If an electronic device becomes a distraction in any school environment, it may be confiscated and school policies will be enforced. Failure to comply will result in further action. 

Unauthorized Recording: Students who take pictures or videos of others without permission in any school setting, including the bus, will face disciplinary actions.

Recording and Posting: Students may not use a device to record, transmit or post photos or videos of a person or persons on school grounds or the bus without express permission of an administrator in addition to the individual or individuals that are the subjects of the recording.

Device Inspection: The school reserves the right to inspect a student’s electronic device, through proper legal channels, if there is reason to believe the student has violated school policies or engaged in misconduct while using the device.

Phone Calls: Students are not to use their phones to call or text individuals during class time. A telephone located in the office is available for student use if needed. 

Lost, Stolen or Damaged Devices: The school is not responsible for, nor is it required to investigate, any lost, stolen or damaged electronic devices brought onto school grounds or the bus.

Shakopee High School (SHS) students must have a valid parking permit to park their vehicle on campus during the school day. By receiving a permit, students agree to follow all parking rules set by the state, the City of Shakopee and Shakopee School District #720.   Parking on school grounds is a privilege — and can be revoked.  Violations of parking policy could result in a written ticket warning, fines and towing.  

Parking Permit Application   

To apply for a parking permit at SHS, the student must have a valid driver’s license, complete and submit an online parking application and pay the required permit fee.  Applications are only accepted online for the 2026-27 school year.

Students must register all vehicles they may park on school grounds when filling out an application.  Once submitted, the application will be reviewed by school staff and administration.  If approved, the student’s information will be entered into the SHS Parking Permit database, and a permit will be issued.

Independent School District #720 requires students to pay $100 for a full-year parking permit or $25 per quarter.

To purchase your parking permit:

1. Submit an application for your parking permit (online only) 2026-27 SHS Parking Application
2. Pay for your permit: Log into Infinite Campus/Parent Portal,  click on the “School Store” tab AND submit your payment.
3. Get your permit: Bring a copy of your submission (via phone or printed) to Schedule Pick-Up, Open House or the Main Office with a valid driver’s license to pick up your permit.

These fees help cover the costs of parking lot monitoring, maintenance, and other related expenses.  Students who choose to purchase a parking permit after November 9th, 2026, will be eligible for a prorated price based on the remaining length of the school year. Parking permit fees are non-refundable and students may not purchase, sell or transfer permits on behalf of another student.

Daily Parking Permits - Daily parking permits are available and are sold on a first-come, first-served basis for $2.00 each in the main office.  To note, these passes are good for one day only and must be displayed hanging from the rearview mirror. To purchase a daily permit, please visit the Main Office (do NOT complete an online form). Students must have a valid driver’s license and provide complete vehicle information—permits will not be issued without both.  Students with daily parking permits are expected to follow the same rules and guidelines as those with full-year permits. 

Parking Permit Replacements - If a parking permit is lost or damaged, students must request a replacement through the Main Office. Replacement permits may require an additional fee.

Parking Protocols, Rules, and Expectations: The parking lot is a part of the Shakopee High School premises and all Shakopee School District #720 policies and school rules apply. The District reserves the right to adjust the parking regulations and fees to ensure the safety, health and welfare of the students, staff and general public. Shakopee School District buildings and grounds are tobacco-free, alcohol-free and drug-free zones. 

Designated Parking - Student-driven vehicles must be parked in the designated student parking lot as soon as they arrive on campus. Vehicles parked in unauthorized areas—such as fire lanes, visitor spots, staff spaces or police-reserved sections—will result in parking lot violations.

Handicapped Parking - Designated handicapped parking spaces are available in the student lot for students who require special accommodations. A valid handicapped placard or license plate must be clearly visible at all times when parked in these spots.

Parking Lot Conduct - Students are expected to help maintain the safety and cleanliness of the parking lot. Littering, loitering, speeding, unsupervised time in parked cars during the school day, or driving recklessly may result in the loss of parking privileges. If a permit is revoked, the student is no longer allowed to park on school property. 

Permit Display - Parking permits must be clearly displayed by hanging the permit from the rearview mirror, facing outward so it is easily visible through the windshield while on campus.  To note, this ensures that school staff can quickly verify that the vehicle is authorized to park on campus. As the student leaves the campus, the permit should be removed from the rearview mirror.  Failure to properly display the permit may result in a violation or loss of parking privileges. 

Search of Vehicle - School officials may search student vehicles pursuant to Minnesota State Law when there is reasonable cause to believe that tobacco, drugs, weapons, stolen property or any other illegal items that could interfere with school purposes may be present. Failure to cooperate with authorities during such searches will result in consequences applicable to the greatest suspected offense.

Vehicle Display - Vehicles that display references to alcohol, tobacco, drugs or anything offensive to others including but not limited to swastikas, confederate flags (southern cross), obscene bumper/window stickers, or other slogans or decorations not appropriate for school, will be banned from campus.

Vehicle Safety and Security - Students are strongly encouraged to lock their vehicles at all times and avoid leaving valuables inside. Shakopee High School is not responsible for any theft, damage, or vandalism to vehicles or their contents. 

Parking Violations- Parking at Shakopee High School is a privilege that comes with responsibilities. To maintain safety and order on campus, all students are expected to follow school parking regulations. Failure to follow these rules may result in consequences, including warnings, fines, towing or loss of parking privileges. 

1st Parking Lot Violation - Written Ticket Warning + Fine 

1. A warning notice will be placed on the vehicle, indicating the specific parking violation. A $2 fine will be issued and recorded in the student’s account. The notice should be clearly visible—typically placed on the windshield—and will include instructions for how and when the fine must be paid.
2. The school will send an email notifying a student (and their parent/guardian) that the vehicle has received a warning notice.

2nd Parking Lot Violation - Written Ticket Warning + Fine 

1. A warning notice will be placed on the vehicle, indicating the specific parking violation. A $2 fine will be issued and recorded in the student’s account. The notice should be clearly visible—typically placed on the windshield—and will include instructions for how and when the fine must be paid.
2. The school will send an email notifying a student (and their parent/guardian) that the vehicle has received a warning notice.

3rd Parking Lot Violation - Written Ticket Warning + Fine 

1. A warning notice will be placed on the vehicle, indicating the specific parking violation. A $2 fine will be issued and recorded in the student’s account. The notice should be clearly visible—typically placed on the windshield—and will include instructions for how and when the fine must be paid.
2. The school will send an email notifying a student (and their parent/guardian) that the vehicle has received a warning notice.

4th Parking Lot Violation - Towing 

1. For chronic violations or specific situations (e.g., parking in fire lanes, blocking access, or repeated violations despite warnings) - vehicles may be towed.
2. The school will send an email notifying a student (and their parent/guardian) that the vehicle will be towed or has been towed.

Examples of Parking Violations (including, but not limited to):

• Parking without a valid parking permit
• Parking in visitor/reserved spaces and authorized parking spaces
• Blocking driveways, fire lanes, or other vehicles
• Parking in non-designated areas (e.g., grass, sidewalks, curbs)
• Lending, sharing, or using someone else’s parking permit
• Failing to display the permit properly
• Reckless driving or unsafe behavior in the parking lot
• Tampering with or falsifying a parking permit

Fire Lane and Handicapped Parking Enforcement -  Students who park in a fire lane or in a handicapped parking space without proper authorization may be subject to tickets issued by law enforcement, in addition to school consequences.

Written Ticket - A written ticket warning is an official notice placed on a vehicle to inform the driver that they have violated a parking regulation, but no serious penalty (like towing) is being issued.  The written ticket warning will include - date/time of the violation, location, type of violation and warning message.

The purpose of the written ticket warning is to document the incident in a formal but low-stakes way, give the driver a chance to comply with parking lot expectations, establish a record of violation for repeated offenses and to support fairness and consistency in enforcement.

Violation Fine Payment - To pay a parking fine, students are expected to bring their written parking ticket warning to the main office and submit payment via IC School Store.  The ticket must be presented at the time of payment to ensure accurate recordkeeping and proper documentation of the violation. Office staff will record the payment, mark the violation as resolved in the Parking Lot Violation Spreadsheet, and provide the student with a receipt for their records.  Students are encouraged to pay their fines promptly to avoid additional fines or towing.

Fine Forgiveness with Permit Purchase - If a student accumulates parking fines, those fines can be applied toward the cost of a parking permit. Once a student pays $25 in fines during a quarter, they will automatically receive a parking permit for that quarter. In other words, fines paid count toward the permit fee, and no separate payment is required.

During class time, students are expected to communicate with their teacher/staff member if they need to leave the classroom (e.g. bathroom, meet with a staff member, nurse visits). The teacher or staff member will utilize a pass system to create accountability in the hallways and wings. Students are expected to remain in their assigned area of the school and/or go directly to their appointment and return directly to their classroom when finished.

When leaving the classroom, students are expected to be considerate of others who are studying and in class by passing quietly.

Student Passes

Students may be issued passes to meet with their Academy Principal, Dean of Students/Student Support Specialist, school counselor, equity specialist or special services staff member (social workers, school psychologist, evaluation teacher, county therapists, etc,.), as well as to go to the main office, counselor, student support hub, student health office, Learning Commons, and/or Athletic/Activities office.

Shakopee Public Schools provides a protective case for iPads.

• iPads should ALWAYS be in the protective case. No part of the case should be removed.  

• The device should be charged using the charger provided and brought to school ready to use each day.  

• Do NOT place your device in a book bag that contains food, liquids, heavy or sharp objects.

Digital Learning Device Screen & Cleaning

• The screens are sensitive to pressure and therefore can be damaged; they are scratch resistant, not scratch proof.

• The screens are made of glass and can either break or shatter.

• Do NOT use liquids to clean the device.  This includes, but is not limited to: window cleaners, household cleaners, aerosol sprays, solvents, alcohol, ammonia, or abrasives.  

• PLEASE USE: A soft, dry cloth or anti-static cloth.

• The digital learning device is Shakopee Public Schools’ property.

• The digital learning device must remain free of any writing, drawing, stickers, or labels that are not issued and placed onto the device by Shakopee Public Schools staff.  

• Cords and cables must be inserted carefully into the device to prevent damage.

• Never expose a device to extreme cold or heat, direct sunlight, or prolonged periods of time in places that are not at a normal room temperature.

• Digital learning devices must be kept in a secure location at all times. It is the student’s responsibility to know where their device is. During classes or lunch periods when the device is not needed, place the device in your locker or in a locked classroom.  Do NOT place your device on the BOTTOM of your locker, but rather on top of all other materials. 

• The use of or access to the digital learning device in any unauthorized area (such as locker rooms, restrooms) is prohibited.

• If the digital learning device is either lost or stolen, students should report that information to the front office or technology staff as soon as possible.  The digital learning devices contain software that can be activated to track and possibly recover missing devices. The district will coordinate with law enforcement to track missing or lost devices in partnership with the student/family. 

Shakopee Public Schools does not provide earphones. If a student uses his/her own earphones then:

• Earphones shall not be used within or on school property unless a teacher specifically requests or allows students to do so.  

• If allowed to use earphones, the appropriate level is when only the person wearing the earphones can hear the sound.  Sound must be muted at all times unless permission is obtained from the teacher for instructional purposes.

Our goal in Shakopee Public Schools is to help students demonstrate digital responsibility, situational awareness and the ability to use technology to create, research, communicate and produce content in the academic and professional setting.  Our digital initiative is intended to foster engaging curriculum, dynamic learning environments and students who are better prepared for the world beyond our school doors.  We believe that it is not about the device, but rather how to use the device in education.  

Shakopee Public Schools Expectations for Digital Learning:

1. Use technology to access and produce information

2. Use technology to collaborate and communicate with others

3. Use technology to craft, refine and publish content to a wider audience

4. Use technology to create and innovate

Expectations for Digital Citizenship:

Being a responsible citizen in our schools, communities and the digital world requires responsibilities adapted for a changing world.  We embrace the following conditions of being a digital citizen:

• Respect yourself. I will select names that are appropriate. I will carefully consider the information and images I post online. I will not post personal information about my life, experiences, experimentation, or relationships. I will not be obscene.  

• Protect yourself. I will ensure that the information I post online will not put me at risk. I will not publish details about myself, my contact information, or a schedule of my activities. I will report any attacks or inappropriate behavior directed at me. I will protect passwords, accounts, and resources.  

• Respect others. I will show respect to others. I will not use technology to bully, harass, tease, or stalk other people.  I will show respect for others through my choice of websites. I will not visit sites or display images that are inappropriate or disrespectful. I will not abuse my rights of access.

• Protect others. I will protect others by reporting abuse and not forwarding inappropriate or hurtful materials or communications and not visiting sites that are inappropriate or disrespectful.

• Respect & protect intellectual property. I will suitably use and cite any and all content (websites, books, media, etc.) according to copyright or creative commons licensing. I will request to use the software and media that others produce.  

• Do NOT attempt to try to repair any digital learning device yourself.  

• If the device is not working, take it to the Media Center/Learning Commons or designated technology repair area as soon as possible and have technology department staff examine it.  If the device needs to be worked on for an extended period of time, you will be issued a temporary or replacement device.  For cases of hardware failure or other damage, a replacement device will be provided. 

• Each digital learning device has identifying labels which must not be removed or altered in any fashion.

As of the 2022-2023 school year, we are no longer offering device insurance. The district will maintain devices through a combination of capital projects levy funding and warranty agreements with the manufacturer.  

The district is not liable for any loss, damage (including incidental, consequential or punitive damages) or expenses caused directly or indirectly by the equipment. Cosmetic damage that does not affect the functionality of the device will generally not be repaired; this includes but is not limited to scratches, dents, or any normal wear and tear.

Access to Shakopee Public Schools’ owned technology is a privilege and not a right. At any point access to devices, Internet and other technology resources can be revoked.

Student Digital Responsibility includes, but is not limited to:

Accessing/Posting Inappropriate Material

Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, forwarding, downloading, scanning or displaying materials (including photos of students and staff) that are defamatory, abusive, obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit, sexually suggestive, threatening, discriminatory, harassing and/or illegal is a violation of this agreement.

Personal Safety

Do not send any message that includes your personal information such as: home address, personal phone numbers and/or last name for yourself or any other person.  Do not send information regarding your schedule (where you are/will be, times, dates, etc.).

Privacy

Students and families need to know that files stored on school-owned computers are not private.  Network and Internet access is provided as a tool for educational purposes only.  Shakopee Public Schools has the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review, and store at any time, without prior notice, any and all usage of the computer network and Internet access including transmitted and received information.  All files are the property of Shakopee Public Schools and no user shall have any expectations of privacy regarding such files.  Students may be selected, at any time, to provide their digital learning device for inspection. 

Password Protection

The student or family may secure the digital learning device with a passcode and it is the responsibility of the student and family to remember the passcode. Never share your passcode, steal or use another person’s passcode. 

Online Etiquette

Follow the guidelines of accepted behaviors within each school’s handbook.  Do not use technology to bully anyone, or pass along obscene material or material which is based on slurs or stereotypes relating to race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, or personal beliefs. 

Blogging and/or Podcasting

Use of blogs, podcasts, emails, texting, social media or other tools are considered an extension of the classroom. Expectations for behavior and online etiquette will apply regardless of the tools being used or the setting in which speech takes place.  

Plagiarism/Copyright/Licensing

Plagiarism is the act of representing or using someone else’s words or ideas as your own.  Students are required to give proper credit to all Internet sources used in academic assignments, whether quoted, paraphrased, or summarized.  This includes all forms of media on the Internet, such as graphics, movies, music and text. Students must adhere to copyright law regarding software, authorship and copying information.  All students should also adhere to the Creative Commons licenses where the author/artist denotes what media may be shared, remixed or reused.

Photos and Video

Students should only take pictures or videos of staff or students with staff permission.  Any student use of cameras in Shakopee Schools should be part of a class or club activity.

Malicious Use/Vandalism

Any malicious use, disruption or harm to the district’s technology, networks and Internet services, including but not limited to hacking activities and creation/uploading of computer viruses, is a violation of this agreement.  No student shall obtain or try to obtain other students’ accounts, files, and/or data.  Students are NOT to manipulate the operating system or remove or attempt to remove or circumvent the management system installed on each digital learning device.  Using or possessing hacking software is a violation of this agreement.  Students who attempt to hack or “jailbreak” any Shakopee Public Schools digital learning device will be in violation of this agreement.  The use of anonymous proxies, Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections, or similar software to circumvent content filtering is strictly prohibited.

Classroom Expectations

Failure to follow teacher direction in regards to the use of devices/tools/websites during class is a violation of this agreement.  If students leave their digital learning device at home they are responsible for completing coursework as if they had their digital learning device present.

Storing Documents

There will be limited storage on the device and academic files take priority over personal. Students should backup their files to Google Drive. The district is not responsible for saving, restoring or backing up documents, music, or photos that students may be storing on the digital learning device.  

Applications and Content

Students may install apps made available to them through Shakopee Public Schools’ Self Service app store.  Students may load music and photos on their district-owned digital learning device as long as all content complies with the Acceptable Use Policy. Applications or content that does not have an educational purpose, is not in compliance with the Acceptable Use Policy, or is disruptive to the educational process or at home may be removed from the device. If technology department staff need to restore a digital learning device for any reason, the district is not responsible for any content put on the device by the student.

Use of Online Educational Applications

The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) requires that parents and guardians of children under the age of 13 provide written consent for the access and use of many online services, including academic applications that will be used at school. The district reviews the use of online services to ensure that student data is maintained in a secure manner, that personally identifiable student data is not shared with third parties, and that our use is compliant with district policies related to student privacy and records. A compiled list of online services is available for review on the district website or by request from the school office.

If technical difficulties arise with a digital learning device, or inappropriate content is discovered, the device may be restored by district technology department staff.  If staff needs to restore the digital learning device, the district is not responsible for the loss of content stored on the device by the student. It is strongly encouraged that all important data is regularly backed up to Google Drive.

Student digital learning devices and accessories will be checked in at the end of each school year at a date and time determined by school administration. Exceptions to the requirement for turning in a device may be available at the district’s discretion. Students who graduate early, transfer, withdraw or are expelled will return the device and accessories at the time of withdrawal. Failure to return the property in a timely fashion may result in the involvement of law enforcement.