School Information

2024 - 2025 SCHOOL YEAR

May 21, 2025	May 27, 2025	June 2, 2025
April 21. 2025	April 28, 2025	May 5, 2025	May 12, 2025
March 25, 2025	April 1, 2025	April 7, 2025	April 14. 2025
February 10, 2025	February 18, 2025	February 24, 2025	March 3, 2025
December 9, 2024	December 16, 2024	January 27, 2025	February 3, 2025
November 4, 2024	November 11, 2024	November 18, 2024	December 2, 2024
October 7, 2024	October 14, 2024	October 22, 2024	October 28. 2024
September 10, 2024	September 16, 2024	September 23, 2024	September 30, 2024
August 6, 2024	August 12, 2024	August 20, 2024	August 27, 2024

2023 - 2024 SCHOOL YEAR

June 25, 2024
May 20, 2024	May 28, 2024	June 3, 2024	June 10, 2024
April 22, 2024	April 29. 2024	May 6, 2024	May 13, 2024
March 26, 2024	April 1, 2024	April 8, 2024	April 15, 2024
February 20, 2024	February 26, 2024	March 4, 2024	March 19, 2024
January 8, 2024	January 22, 2024	January 30, 2024	February 12, 2024
November 27, 2023	December 6, 2023	December 11, 2023	December 18, 2023
October 17, 2023	October 23, 2023	November 6, 2023	November 13, 2023
September 19, 2023	September 26, 2023	October 2, 2023	October 9, 2023
August 14, 2023	August 28, 2023	September 5. 2023	September 11, 2023

2022 - 2023 SCHOOL YEAR

May 15, 2023	May 22, 2023	May 26, 2023
April 17. 2023	April 24, 2023	May 1, 2023	May 8, 2023
March 20, 2023	March 27, 2023	April 3, 2023	April 10. 2023
February 13, 2023	February 21, 2023	February 27, 2023	March 6, 2023
January 17, 2023	January 23, 2023	January 30, 2023	February 6, 2023
December 5, 2022	December 12, 2022	December 19. 2022	January 9, 2023
October 31, 2022	November 8, 2022	November 14, 2022	November 30, 2022
October 3, 2022	October 10, 2022	October 17, 2022	October 24, 2022
September 6, 2022	September 9, 2022	September 19, 2022	September 26, 2022
August 8, 2022	August 17, 2022	August 23, 2022	August 29, 2022

Helpful Numbers

STUDENT ABSENCES

If absent, students must bring a note from a parent/guardian to the Attendance Office (A119) explaining the absence. Students should NOT give the note to a teacher, dean, coach, bus driver, friend or anyone else. Upon returning to school, students have 3 days to turn in the note to the Attendance Office.

 The note needs to include:

• the student’s first and last name, grade, and ID number
• date(s) of absence and reason for absence
• a parent/guardian signature and date of signature
• phone number for verification

The Attendance Office will maintain a sign-in sheet when students drop off notes.  

Reminder: Signing the sign-in sheet is proof that a student turns in a note, so please be sure to sign every time.

Once a student returns to school, he/she will be allowed 3 days to make up the missed work.

Word to the Wise!

Just a reminder that if a student leaves early to go to an appointment, they must bring proof of that appointment (ie, Doctor appointment needs a Doctor's note) to turn in to the Attendance Office.

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EXCUSED ABSENCES

Absences are excused for personal illness, sickness or death in the family, quarantine, weather or road conditions making travel dangerous as publicized by HISD, participation in school activities (maximum 5 per course, per semester) with permission of the principal, juvenile court proceeding documented by a probation officer, pre-approved college visitation, HISD-recognized religious holy days, and doctor or therapy appointments (a doctor’s note is required).

Any personal illness absence that lasts 3 or more days requires a doctor’s note to be considered excused. 

All other absences are unexcused.

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COMMON UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

Car trouble, oversleeping, traffic, metro bus issues, being out of town, and trips not sponsored by HISD/Westside are all examples of unexcused absences. 

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TARDY POLICY

A student is marked as TARDY if they arrive to class after the bell rings but within the first 20 minutes of class time. A student is marked as ABSENT if they arrive after 20 minutes of class time.

Tardy Passes

Students require a Tardy Pass to be admitted to class:

• Students report to House Secretary to obtain a Tardy Pass
• From 8:05-9:15 AM —Students report to the Student Support Center to obtain a Tardy Pass

Note: Tardy students may not bring food/drinks to class.

Consequences for Tardies
• 3rd Tardy = 1 Lunch Detention
• 7th Tardy = 1 Saturday Work Force + Behavior Contract + Referral to Campus Truancy Officer
• 12th Tardy = In School Suspension (ISS) + Face-to-Face Administrative Conference

Detention

• Lunch Detention in S-100 Monday, Tuesday, Friday 11:39-12:09 in S-100 Wednesday & Thursday 11:13-11:43 in S-100
• After-School Detention in S-100 3:20-3:50 PM Saturday Work Force Report to S-100 9:00 AM-12 Noon

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OTHER LATE ARRIVALS

• When HISD buses arrive late to campus, students should go to the Attendance Office (A119) and show their Westside ID that has their current bus number to obtain an excused pass to class and MUST sign the sheet to have absences fixed.
• Students arriving late on Metro buses are not treated the same as an HISD bus and are considered unexcused. Students who arrive within the first 10 minutes of class will report to the Student Support Center for a tardy pass. (ALL STUDENTS MUST HAVE AN ID TO RECEIVE A PASS).
• Students arriving late from a doctor’s/dentist’s appointment must submit a medical note to the Attendance Office and will receive a pass to class. If the student doesn’t have a note, they will sign in at the Attendance Office and then go to the Student Support Center if during the first or second period of instruction for the day. For the remainder of the day (third instructional period and forward) students will go to their House Office for a tardy pass.

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LEAVING SCHOOL EARLY

Students with an appointment should have their parent/guardian come to school to sign them out. Please allow sufficient time for the attendance office staff to get the student out of class.

If the parent/guardian is unable to pick the student up or if the student drives themselves to school they may follow the below procedure:

• Submit a note to the Attendance Office before 1st period on the day of the request. The note needs to include: the student’s first and last name, grade, ID number, date of the early dismissal request, time the student is to be released, reason for the dismissal, parent/guardian signature, and parent phone number.
• The Attendance Office will:
  • Call to verify the note before the student is released.
  • Deliver a hall pass to the student, which enables them to leave class at the designated time to go to the Attendance Office to sign out.
  • Provide the student with a permit to leave campus. Students may only leave campus early after they receive approval from the Attendance office. This applies to all students – those who drive and those who are being picked up.

Or

• Parents may fax a note with the information indicated above to 713-556-5268 or by email to dtolopka@houstonisd.org at least one hour prior to requested dismissal time, if the student has no note and needs to be released without a parent. In accordance with school policy, we will not release any student unless their parent/guardian signs them out or we have verified the written request. 

• Students who feel ill during school should ask the teacher for a permit and report to the Nurse’s Clinic (A121). The nurse will determine if the student should be released and will contact the parent or guardian. A parent may authorize a relative to pick up a student.  The person must be listed on school records or written authorization must be provided. Written authorization and a copy of the parent's ID can be faxed to 713-556-5268. 

No student, including those 18 and older, may leave school without parental consent and without signing out at the Attendance Office.  Students who go off campus without consent are subject to disciplinary action, according to the HISD Code of Student Conduct.   

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ATTENDANCE APPEAL POLICY

If absent too many times, students risk losing course credit, regardless of the academic grade they hold.

Attendance Appeal Process

• Obtain the Attendance Appeals Contract a from either the main office or house office.

• Complete the Attendance Appeals Contract requirements. 

• Submit the Attendance Appeals Contract (signed by the student and parent), the score report, and the report card by the deadline indicated on the Appeals Contract to the North 2 House Secretary.

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COLLEGE CAMPUS VISITS

Students who need to leave school early or will be absent because they are visiting a college or university must complete a College Campus Visit Release Form (available in A205 or Attendance Office). Several signatures are required on this form so plan ahead. Forms must be completed and submitted to the Attendance Office 48 hours in advance of the absence. 

HISD allows students to be absent from school two days during a student's junior year and two days during a student's senior year. An official letter from the college (printed on a college's letterhead) that verifies the campus visits must be submitted to the Attendance Office within 3 days of returning to school.

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VERIFICATION OF ENROLLMENT (VOE)

Students need a VOE to acquire a driver’s permit or license. Students may request a VOE form in the Attendance Office (A119).  Please allow 24 hours for approved requests to be filled.

Students will NOT be approved if they have missed more than 10% of classes in the previous semester. 
 

Word to the Wise!
The state mandates the requirements for issuing a VOE. Unlike our credit appeal policy, the school does not have flexibility or discretion where the VOE is concerned.  A student will have to wait until the next semester to demonstrate an attendance record that meets the requirements for the issuance of a VOE.

We have high expectations for Westside students and are committed to creating an environment in which they can succeed. Disciplinary consequences are designed to deter the student from making errors in judgment or engaging in misconduct that interferes with the student’s (or other students’) ability to be academically successful. 

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CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT

Developed by HISD and distributed to all parents and students, this booklet describes disciplinary offenses and how the district handles them. Parents are responsible for ensuring that their children adhere to the rules and conventions of proper behavior while at school. HISD has “zero tolerance” for student behavior that could disrupt instruction or pose safety hazards on HISD property or while at school-related events. The Code of Student Conduct booklet includes a form that requires both the student’s and parent’s signatures and must be returned along with other forms in first day or registration packet. 

Misconduct is categorized into five levels: 

• Level I: Violation of classroom rules; generally corrected by the teacher and/or parent contact.
• Level II: Administrative/teacher intervention; generally more serious in nature or a repeated violation under Level I.
• Level III: Misconduct that disrupts the instructional process in class, at school, or during school-related activities; repeated violation of Level I and II offenses; considered to be a serious offense.
• Level IV: Criminal offenses; any felony, whether school-related or not, are included here unless it is categorized as a Level V. Such an offense requires removal of the student to a Disciplinary Alternative Educational Program (DAEP).
• Level V: Acts of misconduct that may result in expulsion include, but are not limited to assault, possession of weapons, drug distribution, and other criminal offenses.  

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DISCIPLINARY MEASURES AND TERMINOLOGY

Listed below is a brief explanation of the most commonly used disciplinary measures at Westside. 

• Verbal Warning/Conference: One-on-one conference with student; directive may be given in writing.
• Administrative Directive: Written directive signed by dean and student.
• Sparkle Duty: Check in with dean on duty; clean tables for last 25 minutes of lunch.
• Detention: Thirty-minute time period during lunch or after school; study materials are required; sustained silence.
• Westside Work Force: Two hour Thursday morning or Saturday detention requires students to clean up and beautify the exterior of the campus.
• In School Suspension (ISS): Student attends school in one classroom for all periods; scheduled breaks; heightened structure; coursework provided by regular teacher; sustained silence; extra curricular participation is suspended for the duration of the assignment. Placement can be from 1 to 10 days.
• Off Campus Suspension: Student is prohibited from being on Westside campus and is prohibited from attending any HISD school related activities/events.
• Off Campus DAEP: Level III/IV offenses ranging from 30-180 day placement. Student is required to withdraw from WHS to attend a DAEP.  

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WESTSIDE HONOR CODE 

The Westside High School community believes that integrity is the foundation of all learning.  Academic honesty positively affects student character, as well as family and community pride.  It is the right, privilege, and responsibility of all members in the community to contribute to and work in an environment of trust. Faculty, students, and parents are expected to take steps to stop any and all violations of the honor code.  Excellence exists only if learning takes place within a climate of trust, respect, responsibility, and honesty.

Student Responsibilities:

• To maintain and support the academic integrity of the school community by completing all assigned work, activities and tests in an honorable process according to the stated policies without engaging in cheating, fraud, or plagiarism.
• To understand the schoolwide Honor Code policy and individual teacher assignment guidelines.
• To clarify with the instructor any ambiguities about violations of the Honor Code on an assignment.
• To ensure that students do not make inappropriate use of their work. 

Cheating is…

Participating in a dishonest act or using the works, words, or ideas of another and claiming them as your own.

Examples include (but are not limited to):

• Using any form of a “cheat-sheet”
• Viewing unauthorized notes on a test or quiz
• Looking at another student’s test or paper
• Accepting credit for group or lab work in which you did not contribute
• Taking a picture or making a copy of a test or answer sheet
• Passing test or quiz information from one class to another
• Sharing or stealing test answers
• Having your parents or friends complete your assignments
• Using a previous student’s work as your own
• Buying a paper or project
• Changing or reporting a false grade for yourself or another student
• Allowing someone to use your answers as their own 

Plagiarism is…

Using someone else’s ideas or words as your own without proper acknowledgement.

Examples include:

• Copying documents or images from books, magazines, the Internet or other sources without proper documentation
• Submitting a paper or other work as your own when it was created by another
• Paraphrasing or restating another’s work without proper citations
• Making up a citation or attributing a work to a non-existent source
• “Fudging” data for an assignment            
• Forging a signature          

Fraud is…

A deception deliberately practiced in order to secure unfair or unlawful gain.

Examples include but are not limited to:

• Attempting to pass off someone else’s work, imagery or technology as your own or purchasing or selling an assignment from another person or from a technological resource
• Falsifying scientific or other data submitted for academic credit
• Forgery of signatures or tampering with official records

Penalties for Violating the WHS Honor Code

If a student violates the Honor Code, he/she will receive a “0” for the school work, a “U” in conduct, and disciplinary action (including loss of Off Campus and Extracurricular Activity privileges). In addition, this conduct is considered a Level II violation of the Code of Student Conduct. Please consult the appropriate department policy for more information whether any possibility of a retake exists.

In cases where theft of material or use of a computer has been used in the cheating incident, a disciplinary hearing will be held to determine if an alternative educational placement is warranted.

A student is not eligible for a final exam exemption in a course where he or she has a documented instance of cheating.

Many college applications request information on any instances of student cheating.  The school must be factual and honest when completing the school report on any individual student. 

Disciplinary Procedures for WHS Honor Code Violations

• Teacher will clearly state facts regarding the violation on the referral.
• Teacher will notify parents about the incident.
• Administrator will immediately assign penalties based on established guidelines.
• Administrator will inform teacher of disciplinary action.

College advising is an important process for all students at Westside. Students should start by meeting with their dean for a college readiness meeting. Once this meeting is completed, students then have the opportunity to meet with Westside’s College Access Coordinator (CAC) in The College Center (A205). The CAC helps students navigate the college application process. Students and parents are encouraged to set an appointment with the CAC. All students and parents are encouraged to attend College Night, which typically occurs in the fall, at Westside. A multitude of colleges and university representatives from across the country will be here to provide information and answer questions.

Naviance is an exceptional web-based tool which allows the College Center to communicate information on upcoming events, college planning, scholarships, summer programs, and financial aid. HISD regularly downloads student data, allowing both the student and their parents to view individual demographic information, GPA/Rank, test information including PSAT, SAT, ACT scores, courses and grades. Students will be able to monitor college applications, create resumes, track community service hours, complete surveys, and view an interactive 4 year planner. Students will register for Naviance at school. We also recommend that the parent registers as a user connected to the child’s account so that the parent will also receive important notifications.

Information on college entrance exams (including testing dates, fees and deadlines) can be found at www.collegeboard.com for the SAT and at www.act.org for the ACT. Students are also encouraged to sign up on MyRoad, the collegeboard.com college and career planning website.

Word to the Wise!
Registering for the SAT or ACT is the student’s responsibility. While WHS is one of many testing centers, we have no active role in registering students for college entrance exams.

What are the Main office hours?

Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Where are students dropped off and picked up?

Please drop off and pick up your child in the student parking lot located in the southeast corner of the school off Briar Home Drive. Do NOT use the circle drive (except for students with disabilities) or stop along Briar Forest.

Where should students park?

Students may park in the Student Lot in assigned spaces with a permit or on the street where allowed by city ordinance. Students with off-campus privileges must park in the Student Lot if they intend to exercise those privileges during the school day. Students may not park in any other campus parking lot. Students parked in unauthorized spaces will be towed at the owner’s expense! Information on parking permits, including the application, is available on our Parking web page.

Where do visitors park?

Visitors to the Westside Campus should park in the Circle Drive off Briar Forest in the spaces designated for that purpose. Please do not park in reserved spaces or the fire lane! If the Circle Drive lot is full, you may park in the adjacent lot in front of the school EXCEPT during the hours of 7:30-8:30 am and 2:30-4:00 pm on school days when the lot is reserved for school buses only. If you are attending a school event after 4:00 pm, you may park in any Westside lot, but please be aware that the gates on both the Student Lot and Faculty Lot at the rear of the school will be locked at 9:00 pm.

Why the block schedule on Wednesday and Thursday?

One of the measures of an exceptional school is academic excellence. In order to achieve this, professional learning must be ongoing. Research has indicated that the only effective method is to enable staff planning during the contract day. The block schedule permits us to incorporate professional learning on Thursday morning without significantly lengthening the school day. (With fewer periods, less time is needed to pass between classes.)

Who is eligible for bus transportation?

Students who are zoned to Westside High School and live more than 2 miles from the school are eligible for HISD bus transportation. Non-zoned students in our Magnet Program are also eligible. Students with other types of transfers may be eligible for transportation if space is available.  Additional information can be found on our Bus Transportation web page.

How do I know which small I school I belong to and who my dean is?

Your small school is indicated on your ID badge by location. Dean lists will be posted at the entrance to each small school (also known as houses) with students listed alphabetically.

My child’s schedule is wrong. What do we do?

Getting every student the courses he or she needs and wants is a formidable job and most will have to request a change (either as a correction or as a change of heart) sometime in the student’s four years at Westside. Students complete a Schedule Change Request Form available from their small school secretary and must turn it in by the due date. The deans will make the changes (or call the student in) and issue a new schedule. Please allow your child to handle this and give us time to make changes at the beginning of each semester.

Who do I call if my child is having a problem?

Concerns are best resolved by going directly to the source. Most issues are related to the classroom so please contact the teacher by email or phone. The Important Contacts page includes a list of other faculty members as well as troubleshooting tips.

How will I know if school has been cancelled due to weather?

HISD maintains an inclement weather hotline at 713-267-1704 and typically will post school closings on houstonisd.org, HISD's Twitter account, and HISD's Facebook account. The district usually inclement weather messages to all students and parents via the School Messenger system (phone/email/text). You can also check local television/radio stations as HISD releases this information immediately to the press.

Can I pay with a check?

Unfortunately, Westside is unable to accept checks. We accept money orders and cash.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES 

Clubs/Organizations

There are numerous reasons to get involved in one or more clubs or organizations on campus.  Colleges consider strongly a student’s well-roundedness and contributions to his/her school for admission and scholarship consideration.  In addition, it helps students feel connected to school and friends, and it fosters positive socialization.  With more than 40 clubs and organizations, Westside has numerous opportunities for students to get involved.  

Athletic-Oriented Programs

Baseball	Basketball	Cheerleading	Cross Country
Dance	Drill Team	Football	Golf
Soccer	Softball	Swimming	Tennis
Track	Volleyball	Water Polo	Wrestling

 

View more information on our athletic programs.  

Performing and Visual Art Programs

Band	Ceramics	Choir	Computer Animation
Dance	Digital Photo Art	Drawing	Jazz Band
Orchestra	JROTC Rifle Team	Sculpture	Thespians

 

Student Council

Student Council is centralized with the exception of the Senior Class. There are five officer positions which will act as the leadership body for the Student Government organization as well as both standing and event-related committees. While still part of Student Council, the Senior Class will act largely as a separate entity with its own President and officers.

Attention! 
Please keep in mind that Westside High School is unable to accept checks. When paying for club items, dues, etc. please use a money order or cash.

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PARENT OPPORTUNITIES

Westside High School Parent Teacher Organization

Welcome! A new year is here, and we invite you to stay involved. The objective of the PTO is to enhance the overall educational experience of all Westside students. The PTO assists with volunteer time and financial resources. We help in some of the following areas: staff appreciation, scholarships, enhanced teaching materials/supplies, and campus beautification. We provide volunteers to help wherever needed including UIL competitions, in the bookroom and library, Homecoming and more. We also sponsor the Back-to-School Bash and the Westside Wire (in-home newsletter). We also award ten $1000 scholarships to graduating seniors each year. Join by November 1 to be eligible for the current year.

Ready to support your student through PTO involvement?  Here is how:

• Join the PTO - See the membership form in the First Day Packet or on the PTO website.
• Attend PTO Meetings -- Generally the first Tuesday of the month, 7:00 p.m. in the Library.  Reminders will appear in the school e-newsletter.  See you there!
• Participate in the PTO's Dollars for Scholars campaign. Even if you cannot give of your time,  lend your monetary support through our "write a check" program. It's easy. You will find the form at our website or again, in the First Day Packet.
• We look forward to meeting you and working as partners in the success of all students at Westside High School. 

Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS)

There are a host of volunteer needs at Westside, and we welcome all interested individuals and business partners to participate in our VIPS (Volunteers in Public Schools) program.  Volunteering is a great way to be an active participant in your child’s educational experience.  It is a known fact that schools with an active volunteer base are more successful than those without this support.  We encourage you to give of your time and expertise to help contribute to the success of all Westside students.

To begin volunteering, please complete the Volunteer Interest Form found in the forms packet along with the HISD background check form.  This will help us match your interests with the needs of the school.  As our main method of communication is by e-mail, it is very important that we have an accurate e-mail address.  Return these forms to the Main Office at the school.  When you come to the school to volunteer, please check in at the welcome desk or Main Office and wear an ID badge.  If you will be a recurring volunteer, you may have an ID badge made in the attendance office after the first two weeks of school.

Here is a sampling of areas where Westside needs your help:  Library, Book Room, Tutoring, Food and Baked Goods, Landscaping, Homecoming, Attendance Office and Football Ticket Sales.  Many other areas are listed on the Volunteer Interest Form.   For further information, contact our VIPS Coordinator. 

Athletic Booster Club (ABC)

The Westside High School Athletic Booster Club (ABC) looks forward to another year of outstanding athletics.  During the school’s first 10 years, Westside teams have won numerous district championships, many post-season games, have had several individual state champions and one team state champion.  We wish each of the teams continued success this year and look forward to watching each of the over 1000 Westside student-athletes grow in their ability, their sportsmanship, and their character. 

The ABC has two main goals. The first is to raise funds to supplement those provided by the school district so that our student-athletes have the facilities, coaching, and equipment needed to participate in a wide variety of sports in a safe and competitive manner. The ABC will also award scholarships to the Outstanding Student-Athletes named by the administration at the end of the school year. Our second goal is to help promote community awareness and involvement in Westside athletics. Once again, the ABC will publish the Westside Wolves Football programs and sponsor the Community Fun Run. We also maintain an ABC website, hold monthly meetings, and advance our organization at a variety of school events. 

All profits from ABC fundraising events are shared with the sports participating in the fundraiser. This is a great way to help support your child’s team.  We encourage every parent to join the booster club and every team to get involved in selling both retail and spirit ads for our sports programs.

We invite everyone to attend our monthly meetings held on the second Monday of every month at Westside High School and to visit our website at www.westsidehighsports.org. Make a commitment to your student, your school, and your community as we continue to promote a positive winning attitude in athletics.  

Other Parent Groups

There are other organized parent groups at WHS (Music Booster Club, Pride, etc.) who meet regularly to support extracurricular activities. Sponsors, coaches and teachers can always use help; please don’t hesitate to ask even if the organization does not have a formal parent group. 

Shared Decision Making Committee

The purpose of the Shared Decision Making Committee (SDMC) is to advise the principal on school issues, including the budget and staff development.  It is comprised of eight teachers, four non-instructional certified professionals, one non-instructional staff member, parents (selected by the PTO), community members (selected by the principal), students (selected by students), and the principal. Meetings are held the third Wednesday of the month, and are open to the public; however, only committee members may vote. If you would like an item added to the agenda, please email the school principal at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. 

GRADING POLICY

The Westside Grading Policy is as follows:

*Updated Grade averaging for the 2023-2024 School Year:

COURSES	CYCLE	FINAL EXAM
All high school courses, including those taken in middle school.	Each six-week cycle of the semester counts as 30%	10%*

 

• The division between major and minor grades for all curriculum teams is 70%-30%.  Core-content freshman-level courses (Algebra 1, English 1, biology, and world geography) have a 60%-40% major-minor split. 
• All Curriculum Teams will have the same major grades (quantity, weights, and content). Minor grades will be similar but are not required to be uniform.
• Teachers must post at least one grade to PowerSchool every week.
• Teachers must have a minimum of three major grades each grading cycle unless otherwise notified by the principal.

Parents!
The two most important things you can do to ensure success in high school are (1) making sure your child attends school every day on time and (2) monitoring your child’s grades through PowerSchool, progress reports, and report cards.

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RETAKE POLICY 

HISD School Guidelines explain that “a student may be allowed a reasonable opportunity to make up or redo a class assignment or examination for which the student received a failing grade.”

At Westside, a retake is an assessment that matches the rigor and objectives of an original exam. Retakes often increase a student’s grade, but they may not. The primary purpose is a second opportunity to demonstrate mastery of course material.

Pre-AP retake replacement grades are capped at 75 while Prep retakes are capped at 80.

Student Retake Eligibility 

• Only major grades are eligible for a retake.
• At the teacher’s discretion, students may be required to complete a remediation task prior to retesting. Potential tasks may include:
  • Attend tutorials
  • Complete alternative assignment
  • Complete prerequisite homework
  • Complete test corrections
• Retake must be completed within one week of original test grade being posted in PowerSchool.
• Retakes are for grades 70 and below only.
• Students with absences still have the opportunity to have a retake once they make-up exam.
• Retakes are not allowed for final exams.
• Alternative major grades (projects, labs, essays, other long term assignments, etc.) are subject to teacher discretion for retake approval. Teachers will share retake eligibility on these grades. 

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DEPARTMENT TEST DAYS

Test and major quiz (a quiz that is 25 or more minutes) dates are coordinated to minimize the number of tests a student has to take in one day. The days are as follows: 

• Monday, Wednesday/Thursday: English Language Arts and Science
• Wednesday/Thursday: World Languages and CTE
• Tuesday and Friday: Math, Social Studies and other electives

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REPORT CARDS AND PROGRESS REPORTS

Report cards go home every 6 weeks and progress reports are generated halfway through each grading period.  

A passing grade is 70 and above. An acceptable conduct grade is “S” (satisfactory) and above. Student and parents have 5 opportunities (3 progress reports and 2 interim report cards) to identify and address any problem before semester grades.

Parents!
If a student does not bring his/her report card or progress report home, CALL THE SCHOOL or HOUSE SECRETARY! Many times, students are anxious about their grades and simply don’t want to share them with their parent.

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FINAL EXAM EXEMPTIONS 

A senior may exempt a spring semester final exam if the following conditions are true: senior classification in PowerSchool, 85 or higher in that course, E or S in conduct in that course, no more than three total absences, no documented cheating or plagiarism incidents in that course, no documented level III or IV offenses.

A student (in any grade level) who completes the AP exam for an AP course may be exempt from the spring final exam. To be exempt, the student must have an 85 or higher in that course, E or S in conduct in that course, no more than three total absences, no documented cheating or plagiarism incidents in that course, no documented level III or IV offenses.

It is important to note that students who are exempt from the final and do not report to school will receive an excused absence on the day of the final.  

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COMPOSITE GRADING (WHOLE COURSE CREDIT)

Whole course credit is a policy that allows for the averaging of semester grades in an A/B sequential course to enable a student to receive credit for the year-long course, in spite of having failed one semester.

For a yearlong course, the first semester (A portion) grade and second semester (B portion) grade must average 70 or higher (140 points or more when combined).

This policy is designed to encourage students who are struggling in a course make academic improvements and to afford them the opportunity to earn full credit. The registrar will award the credit to all that qualify; there is no application necessary.

If a student must do a credit appeal for the second semester course in order to receive credit due to excessive unexcused absences, he or she must complete the credit appeal hours before the composite grading will be awarded. Students who transfer to school mid-year (from another Houston ISD school) with a failing grade in one of the approved classes will be eligible for whole course credit. 

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PARENT STUDENT CONNECT

PowerSchool is an HISD service that allows registered users (i.e., parents and students) to log in to view a student's grades as the data is inputted into the teacher’s PowerSchool Teacher Pro. program. PowerSchool also allows the user to view assignments, progress reports, attendance records, achievement test scores, report cards, and more. Users can also set up "triggers" that send an e-mail or text message if a child's grades drop below a selected average or if a student is absent or tardy to class.  Information on how to register and use the program can be found on our PowerSchool webpage. 

Parents!
PowerSchool is the best tool to regularly monitor your student’s grades. 

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COURSE FAILURE

Course failure will result if a student has received a grade of 69 or lower.  It is important for students and parents to know that once a course failure has occurred (even if it was a high school credit course taken in middle school), it can never be replaced with another passing grade.  The student can retake the course, and the new grade will be averaged in with the student’s cumulative GPA, but it doesn’t replace the failing grade.

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CREDIT RECOVERY/SUMMER SCHOOL

Credit recovery refers to re-taking a course in which a student received a failing grade of 69 or lower. It is essential that the student meet with his/her dean to discuss the variety of options available in order to stay on track for graduation. (This may involve summer school.)

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TUTORIALS

During the School Week:

Tutorials are offered before school, during lunch and/or after school in every subject. Students may attend tutorials with their assigned teacher or any other teacher for the same course. Students should NOT wait until they are failing to attend tutorials. Take the initiative and get help early. Ask your teacher when tutorials are available, look for signs in the hallway, or speak with your dean. 

Saturday Tutorials:

Saturday tutorials are available in many subjects throughout the school year. Information about Saturday tutorials can be found on the school calendar. In addition, callouts and emails to parents are sent throughout the year.

While we’ve addressed Credit Recovery and Composite Grading, it is obviously best not to need them in the first place. The first step is attendance; teachers can’t teach you if you’re not here to learn. The second step is getting help. Every faculty member wants every student to pass his/her class. Tutorials are offered before school, during lunch and/or after school in every subject. Even if your teacher doesn’t have tutorials when you can attend, someone in that department does. Whether you’ve missed school or simply don’t understand the subject matter, it doesn’t take much to fall behind and start a downward spiral. Do NOT wait until you are failing to attend tutorials. Take the initiative and get help early; you’ll be surprised how one or two sessions can put you back on track! Ask your teacher when tutorials are available or speak with your dean.

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INTERVENTION

Westside High School Social Workers provide intervention for students who are facing severe challenges at school.  School Social Workers offer assistance in various ways: counseling, goal setting, coping and social skills, conflict resolution, etc. If you feel that your child needs assistance, please contact your child’s dean for a referral.

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Also view the Graduation Plans & Requirements and UIL Eligibility information.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Graduation requirements for a student are those requirements in effect the year that a student enters high school as a freshman. They also vary by degree plan with different degree plans being offered to students based on the year they entered ninth grade. The State of Texas has changed high school graduation requirements and plans several times since 2007. However, the current degree plans apply to all students who entered high school in 2014-15 and after.  Click here to view the current graduation plans.

If you have questions about prior degree plans, please contact the office of Inactive Student Records at Houston ISD (713) 556-6744.

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Texas Administrative Code requires that “every child in the state shall be immunized against vaccine preventable diseases caused by infectious agents.” (TAC RULE §97.63) A list of required vaccinations is available from our school nurse. If a student fails to comply, they will NOT be allowed to attend school (TAC RULE §97.66). Westside High School will notify the student in writing if they are out of compliance and will follow-up with a phone call to the parent or guardian. It is your responsibility to be sure the school has your current address and phone number on file. Please do NOT disregard this notice from our school nurse. 

The following immunizations are required:

• DPT/DT - 3 doses required with last dose after age 4 and 1 Tdap/Td booster within the last 10 years.
• Tdap – 1 dose is required when 10 years has passed since last dose of tetanus-containing vaccine.
• Polio (oral) - 4 doses required, with last dose after age 4
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) - 2 doses required, 1st dose after age 1
• Hepatitis B - 3 doses required.
• Varicella (chickenpox) - 2 doses are required, the 1^st dose must be given on or after the 1^st birthday, or history of illness.
• Meningococcal (meningitis vaccine) For 7th - 12th grade - 1 dose required on or after student's 11th birthday. The meningitis vaccine will need to be current within 5 years of entering any educational endeavor past high school.

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TEMPORARY OR ONGOING MEDICAL CONDITIONS

A student with a temporary or ongoing medical condition that could (a) require medical attention at school, and/or (b) impact his/her ability to thrive in the school environment, needs to be reported to the school nurse. Parents should ensure that both the school nurse and the student’s dean are made aware of the situation, so the school can respond appropriately to the child’s needs. If a student is hospitalized at any time during the school year, the school nurse and the dean should be notified. In addition, HISD has resources available that may be of assistance.

Personal medical information will always be kept confidential.

School Nurse:

713-556-5256

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ADMINISTERING MEDICATIONS AT SCHOOL

School Board Policy (in accordance with TEC §22.052) prevents nurses, teachers, administrators or coaches from administering medications of any kind at school without proper consent.  A student may NOT carry any type of medication with him/her except for students with asthma or life threatening allergies requiring an Epi pen who have paperwork on file with the nurse in the school clinic. Medications are required to be kept locked in the Clinic. A written medication permission form with the original signatures of both a parent and the prescribing physician must accompany all medication including self-administration prescriptions for asthma or Epi pens. Each medication must be in its original container with an affixed prescription label listing the patient for whom the drug was prescribed, the drug name, and the proper dosage and administration route information. Medication and Treatment Forms are available in the Nurse’s Clinic.

Word to the Wise!

These guidelines apply to ALL medications — both prescription and over-the-counter.

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COUNSELING SERVICES

Westside High School has a Licensed Clinical Social Worker on staff to assist students, families, and school personnel. As a member of the Westside High School team, the School Social Worker promotes well-being and intervenes to address barriers to student success. Our Social Worker, Ciera McIntosh, LMSW provides supportive counseling, offers crisis intervention, manages support programs, assists with behavior intervention, and provides consultation to parents, teachers, and administrators. Ms. McIntosh's office is located in S241, and she can be reached at 281-920-8000.

Westside High School also offers the Choices program.  The program aims to reduce high-risk behavior through a comprehensive education and counseling program.  Choices is a partnership between Westside High School and the Council on Recovery. Choices is located in N144 and can be reached by phone at 281-920-8000.

If you do not want your child to receive counseling services, please notify Ms. McIntosh or call the Choices office.

E-NEWS: WESTSIDE'S WEEKLY ELECTRONIC NEWSLETTER

During the school year, The E-News is sent out via email every Monday to keep the community abreast of what’s going on at Westside: calendar events, policy changes, reminders, and student and staff achievements. Parents can subscribe to the E-News.

Word to the Wise! 
Westside's E-News is the best way to stay informed, so we strongly recommend you subscribe!

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CALL OUT SYSTEM: SCHOOL MESSENGER

When there is important information to relay to parents, we will utilize the HISD call out system called SchoolMessenger. Parents may receive a pre-recorded message, an email, and/or a text message from the school. This is extremely effective, but only when we have correct phone numbers and email addresses on file.  Update contact information with the Attendance Office.

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THE HOWLER

The Howler is the online Westside student newspaper. It is published by and for students and is currently distributed online. The newspaper is edited by the Westside teacher sponsor.  A newspaper class (elective credit) is offered during the school day for interested students. Journalism I (and a dean/staff recommendation) is a pre-requisite.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Two venues for public announcements are utilized within the school; a television broadcast is made daily, and scrolling announcements are also visually posted on the TVs around campus. Important information can also be found on this website.

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SOCIAL MEDIA

Westside updates our social media pages regularly. Follow Westside on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay connected. 

Facebook:	facebook.com/westsidehs facebook.com/HoustonISD
Twitter:	@westsidehigh @HoustonISD
Instagram:	gowestsidewolves

There are three off-campus privileges, all are subject to eligibility and require contracts: 

• Off-Campus Lunch (Home Lunch Period) enables juniors or seniors to go home during the lunch period 
• Senior 7^th Period Off-Campus allows seniors to leave school during 7th period. (There is NO off campus period on Thursdays.)
• Senior 6^th & 7^th Period Off-Campus allows seniors to leave school during 6th and 7th periods.

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OFF-CAMPUS LUNCH

The privilege of obtaining Home-Lunch Privilege with parent consent is reserved for students who have demonstrated personal responsibility in all aspects of their academic and financial obligations. 

Qualifications for Participation in the Home-Lunch Program

• Classified in PowerSchool (student database) as a Junior or Senior.
• Passing grades in all classes on previous Report Car
• Acceptable Attendance - no “NG” (No Grade) or loss of credit due to excessive unexcused absences on the prior year’s report card
• Met passing standards on all portions of the STAAR commensurate with grade level. (Exception:  Admin recommendation accompanied by history of mandatory tutorial attendance)
• Clear of all fees/fines/lost equipment (Textbooks/Library Books/Laptop, etc.)
• Submit a signed and notarized Home-Lunch Parent Consent Form.
• Pay $10 for the Off-Campus Lunch ID; lost ID is $10.
• Demonstrate safe driving at all times and adhere to parking policies/procedures.

Removal/Suspension of Privileges will occur under the following circumstance(s):

• A failing grade on any report card or loss of credit (*NG) on any report card.
• Excessive absences or appearance on excessive tardiness report as determined by the administrator
• Excessive absences or tardies in Homeroom or Guidance.
• Arriving after the tardy bell following the off-campus lunch period.
• Failure to attend detention or ISS relating to tardies.
• Failure to abide by the HISD Code of Conduct.
• The following violations will result in immediate removal of off-campus privileges for at least six weeks, up to the remainder of the school year:
  • Transporting unauthorized students
  • Unauthorized use or possession of another’s ID
  • Reckless driving, speeding, or endangering others
  • Serious misconduct unrelated to off-campus privileges
• The administration reserves the right to revoke the Home-lunch privilege due to any violations of the Student Code of Conduct.

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SENIOR 7TH PERIOD OFF-CAMPUS

The privilege of obtaining 7^th Period Off Campus with parent consent is reserved for students who have demonstrated personal responsibility in all aspects of their academic and financial obligations.

Requirements to Participate in the 7^th Period Off-Campus Program

• Classified in PowerSchool (student database) as a Senior.
• ­­Class schedule must reflect 7^th period Off-Campus
• Acceptable Attendance - no “NG” (No Grade) or loss of credit due to excessive unexcused absences on the prior year’s report card
• Met passing standards on all portions of the STAAR commensurate with grade level. (Exception:  Admin recommendation accompanied by history of mandatory tutorial attendance)
• Clear of all fees/fines/lost equipment (Textbooks/Library Books/Laptop, etc.)
• Submit a signed and notarized 7^th Period Off-Campus Parent Consent Form.
• Pay $10 for the Off-Campus ID; lost ID is $10. The ID must be presented to leave campus.
• Must have transportation to leave campus daily; leaving campus is defined as being at least 300 feet from campus.
• Must leave campus before the tardy bell for 7^th period

Removal/Suspension of Privileges will occur under the following circumstance(s):

• A failing grade on any report card or loss of credit (*NG) on any report card.
• Excessive absences or appearances of excessive tardies report as determined by the administration
• Excessive absences or tardies in Homeroom or Guidance.
• Failure to attend detention or ISS relating to tardies.
• Failure to abide by the HISD Code of Conduct.
• The following violations will result in immediate removal of off-campus privileges for at least six weeks, up to the remainder of the school year:
  • Transporting unauthorized students
  • Unauthorized use or possession of another’s ID
  • Reckless driving, speeding, or endangering others
  • Serious misconduct unrelated to off-campus privileges
• The administration reserves the right to revoke the Home-lunch privilege due to any violations of the Student Code of Conduct.

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SENIOR 6th & 7th PERIOD OFF-CAMPUS

The privilege of obtaining 6^th & 7^th Period Off Campus with parent consent is reserved for students who have demonstrated personal responsibility in all aspects of their academic and financial obligations.

Requirements to Participate in the 6^th & 7^th Period Off-Campus Program

• Classified in PowerSchool (student database) as a Senior.
• ­­Class schedule must reflect 6^th & 7^th period Off-Campus
• Acceptable Attendance - no “NG” (No Grade) or loss of credit due to excessive unexcused absences on the prior year’s report card
• Met passing standards on all portions of the STAAR commensurate with grade level. (Exception:  Admin recommendation accompanied by history of mandatory tutorial attendance)
• Clear of all fees/fines/lost equipment (Textbooks/Library Books/Laptop, etc.)
• Submit a signed and notarized 6^th & 7^th Period Off-Campus Parent Consent Form.
• Pay $10 for the Off-Campus ID; lost ID is $10.  The ID must be presented to leave campus.
• Must have transportation to leave campus daily; leaving campus is defined as being at least 300 feet from campus.
• Must leave campus before the tardy bell for granted off period

Removal/Suspension of Privileges will occur under the following circumstance(s):

• A failing grade on any report card or loss of credit (*NG) on any report card.
• Excessive absences or excessive tardies.
• Failure to attend detention or ISS relating to tardies.
• Failure to abide by the HISD Code of Conduct.
• The following violations will result in immediate removal of off-campus privileges for at least six weeks, up to the remainder of the school year:
  • Transporting unauthorized stud

Public displays of affection are not allowed at Westside. This issue is dealt with at the discretion of the teacher/administrator based on the severity of the incident; however, students should be aware that inappropriate displays of affection are a typically considered a Level II or III misconduct in accordance with the HISD Code of Student Conduct.

IDENTIFICATION

All students must have their Westside ID visible at all times. IDs must be worn on the school-issued lanyard outside one’s clothing. Identification badges are issued at the beginning of the year for no charge, and lanyards can be obtained from any dean’s office.

If a student does not have his/her official Westside ID, he/she must obtain a temporary one (valid for the day) from a dean’s office; the fee is $1 or the student can serve detention. Students with a temporary ID are not allowed off campus. Students who lose their IDs may purchase replacement badges for $5 in the Attendance Office before school, after school, and during lunch.

Students who get lunch from the Cafeteria and Vendoland must continue to wear their ID or will be sent to the end of line.

Off-Campus ID Badges cost $10 cash with appropriate documentation. Students who lose their Off-Campus ID must pay $10 for the replacement badge. There will be no replacements issued for a 2nd loss. 

ATTENTION!Students who deface their ID will be responsible for purchasing a new ID and may face disciplinary consequences. IDs must be able to be scanned at all times. Students are NOT allowed to wear or carry another student’s ID at any time or more than one ID at a time; disciplinary action will result. WHS Student IDs are the property of Houston ISD and must be relinquished upon request of a staff member.

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WALKING THE HALLS (TRUANCY)

Students must be in class for every period, every day. No student should be in the hallways or in unauthorized areas without a house hall pass color and an ID. Bathroom breaks should occur between classes. Students will only be allowed to leave in cases of emergency and will be required to show a house hall pass if they are found in the hallway during class periods. Students caught in an unauthorized area will receive a disciplinary consequence. Having a substitute teacher does not warrant any change in the above policies.

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SUPERVISION

Our staff monitors the halls and common areas in between class periods and during lunch. Staff is on duty outside the building immediately preceding and following the school day. In addition, Westside employs H.I.S.D. Police Officers. If a student has a concern regarding his/her safety, he/she should immediately speak with his/her dean.

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VENDOR LUNCH DELIVERIES 

For the safety of our campus, we do not allow vendors to deliver lunch to students. They will not be allowed to enter the campus, and students will not be allowed to exit the building to meet the delivery vehicle.

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CANINE UNIT 

As a means to ensure a safe campus at all times, a canine unit is routinely dispersed to secondary schools in HISD, including Westside High School.  The canine unit is trained to detect illegal items such as weapons and illegal substances.  The canine unit will typically search classrooms and parking areas on campus.  The canines are authorized to search parking areas within 300 feet of the campus. There will be no interference from individuals during this process, and in some circumstances, electronic devices will be confiscated to ensure an orderly and safe search by the canine unit. Parents should contact the Westside administrations for questions.

PARENT MEETINGS

Parent meetings are held periodically to provide important information. These meetings will be publicized in our WHS Weekly E-News (click here to subscribe) or on this website, The Westside administration may also use our call out system to notify parents of upcoming meetings.

CLASS MEETINGS

Class meetings are held periodically during the school year. Traditionally, freshmen and seniors have more frequent meetings; freshmen must get oriented to high school, and seniors must prepare for graduation and college. Sophomores and juniors meet to discuss the PSAT and provide guidance to ensure they are staying on track. 

BUS TRANSPORTATION

Students who are zoned to Westside High School and live more than 2 miles from the school are eligible for HISD bus transportation. Non-zoned students in our Magnet Program are also eligible. Students with other types of transfers may be eligible for transportation if space is available.  Additional information can be found on our Bus Transportation web page.

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CAR DROP OFF/PICK UP

Please drop off and pick up your child in the student parking lot located in the southeast corner of the school off Briar Home Drive. Do NOT use the circle drive (except for students with disabilities) or stop along Briar Forest.

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STUDENT PARKING

Students may park in the Student Lot in assigned spaces with a permit or on the street where allowed by city ordinance. Students with off-campus privileges must park in the Student Lot if they intend to exercise those privileges during the school day. Students may not park in any other campus parking lot. Students parked in unauthorized spaces will be towed at the owner’s expense! Information on parking permits, including the application, is available on our Parking web page.

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VISITOR PARKING

Visitors to the Westside Campus should park in the Circle Drive off Briar Forest in the spaces designated for that purpose. Please do not park in reserved spaces or the fire lane! If the Circle Drive lot is full, you may park in the adjacent lot in front of the school EXCEPT during the hours of 7:30-8:30 a.m. and 2-4 p.m. on school days when the lot is reserved for school buses only. If you are attending a school event after 4:00 p.m., you may park in any Westside lot, but please be aware that the gates on both the Student Lot and Faculty Lot at the rear of the school will be locked at 9 p.m.

Students are not allowed to participate in any UIL activities if they have any six week grade of a designated course fall below 70 or an “I” Incomplete in designated courses.

These are the eligibility rules for all extracurricular participant after the first six weeks of the schoolyear:

• A student who has a grade average lower than 70 in any designated courses or has an incomplete grade shall be suspended from participation in any UIL/extracurricular activity.
• A no pass/no play suspension period is three school weeks. 19 TAC '76.1001 (b) defines a school week as beginning at 12:01 a.m. or the first instructional day of the calendar week and ending at the close of instruction on the last instructional day of the calendar week, excluding holidays.
• A 3-week period is defined as 15 class days. In the event 2 or 3 of the 3 weeks in a 3-week. period are shortened, one of the shortened weeks may be counted as five days with ten other actual days to make the fifteen total class days.
• The student must be passing all courses other than the identified honors/advanced classes at the end of the three-week evaluation period in order to regain eligibility. Suspended students must wait seven (7) calendar days after they meet eligibility requirements to regain eligibility.
• Students who were eligible shall not lose eligibility until seven (7) calendar days after the end of grading period. (Example: Grading period ends of Friday at 3:30 p.m. Students shall not regain or loose their eligibility until the following Friday at 3:31 p.m.)
• The semester average has no bearing on eligibility. Grades for the last grading period of the semester determine eligibility.
• A student’s attendance record has no bearing on eligibility. If a student has a grade average of 70 or above in all courses, he is eligible to participate in all UIL/extracurricular activities even though he may have exceeded the district’s absence limit.
• Students with an “Incomplete” grade are ineligible until the “I” is replaced with a passing grade. Blank grades or those other than numeric grades also result in student ineligibility.
• Students who pass all courses for the grading period remain eligible throughout the next grading period.
• Students who are ineligible due to no pass/no play may practice or rehearse with other students.

Review the details of the Grading Policy in addition to the UIL Eligibility requirements.