College and Career Center I 790-8011

The College and Career Center provides students and parents with comprehensive information and resources to help plan for careers and education after high school. These plans can be in the area of four year colleges, two year colleges, certificate programs, vocational programs, foreign study or travel, military careers, volunteer positions and employment. The center also provides information on testing and test preparation; scholarships and financial aid; NCAA eligibility requirements; gap-year options and high school distance learning options. The CCC holds numerous events throughout the year. Please see the school calendar and website for those dates and information. Students can contact Lori Sauter at sauter_l@4j.lane.edu regarding College and Career Center resources.

School to Career Program I 790-8012 

The School to Career program gives students a chance to make the connection between academic instruction and work by gaining “real world” experience in a structured work environment. The School to Career program offers classes in which students can explore careers, apply specific knowledge and skills in the workplace, or gain work experience through part-time employment.  Students can contact Leann Hollenbeak at hollenbeak_l@4j.lan.edu for more information.

Friends of South 

The Friends of South Eugene High School is an independent non-profit booster club supporting all of South Eugene High School Students. FOS  supports academics, arts and athletics alike by building long term relationships with South Eugene parents, alumni, and businesses throughout the community.  Friends of South sponsors several fundraisers throughout the year to support students at South, highlighted by the marquee South Eugene Hall of Fame Induction and Fundraiser Auction each Fall

Information for Parents and Family                                            

Parent Council

All parents are automatically members of Parent Council and welcome to attend regular monthly meetings at South. This group acts as the liaison between the staff and the parent body, provides representation to the school’s Site Council, raises funds for additional staffing, and sponsors forums on topics of parental interest. To obtain more information on Parent Council, or find out about a meeting, please contact Carey Killen at  killen_c@4j.lane.edu  Parent Council convenes monthly, and is anticipated to meet the third Monday, at 6:00p.m. in the library and is open to all parents and guardians.

Arriving to School

Students and staff are encouraged to choose safe environmentally-friendly means of transportation when traveling to school. For information about Safe Routes to School, visit the regional Safe Routes to School website or contact: Sarah Mazze, SRTS Program Manager, email: mazze_s@4j.lane.edu, office: 541-790-7492, cell: 541-516-0887

LTD Bus

During the 2022-23 school year, LTD is allowing students to ride at no cost by obtaining a free LTD student bus pass.  Eugene School District 4J does not dictate LTD bus routes or schedules. Students can obtain a free LTD student bus pass from their school by contacting the main office.

Parking and Driving 

Students may park in the East and West lots ONLY.  Students may purchase a parking permit through the SEHS Finance Office. Drivers without parking permits may find parking on the streets near the school. As with most school-related costs, if a family qualifies for Free & Reduced meals some financial assistance may be available and can be addressed by connecting with South’s finance clerk Katie Wold in the main office.

Drive slowly and with caution. (Speed limit is 5 MPH.) Students may have their parking permit revoked for violating driving and parking rules.

It is very important that you do not park in ANY reserved parking space or area from 6:30 am to 3:30 pm on school days. This includes the south Staff lot at the back of the school and visitor parking spaces at the front of the school. Your car may be stickered, ticketed, or towed at your expense. Fire lanes (marked by red curbs) should be kept clear at all times.

Bikes do not require permits but should be locked in designated areas. Bike racks are located near the cafeteria and adjacent to the IHS and main entrances to the building. A bike cage is located in the science courtyard behind the school. Students who use the bike cage must lock bikes to the installed racks.  The cage is locked approximately 15 min. after the first class begins and opened 15 min. prior to the end of the last class. Park bikes at your own risk.  Bike theft does occur at times in this region.

Students who use skateboards or scooters as transportation to school must lock them on a skateboard rack or store them in a classroom during the school day.  Skateboards and scooters should be ridden in a way that is safe for both the rider and any nearby pedestrians, and may not be ridden inside the building for any reason.  Students are expected to walk on campus. Even outside of school hours, students should not use skateboards on campus.

Students may use the restroom during passing time. Single-stall restrooms are for one-at-a-time use only. If students need to use the restroom during class time, teachers will release them one at a time.  Students should wash hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds and avoid touching faucets and other surfaces with their hands. Period products are available at school in restrooms at no cost to all students who need them.

Students may use any student restroom that corresponds with the gender they consistently identify with. Gender inclusive single-stall restrooms are located at the east and west end of the main hall of the building, in the 200 hall, and in the Performing Arts hall. 

It’s not unusual once in a while for any staff member or student to have to wait a few minutes to use the restroom. Please be thoughtful of others and do not linger unnecessarily in the restroom.

Food and Beverages

Water fountains are available for use this year. Students are encouraged to bring a water bottle and can fill their bottle at various water-fill stations. Teachers will let students know their classroom expectations regarding food in class.

Some classrooms such as Science classrooms, labs, and computer labs may not permit eating of any kind.  Students should not eat in the hallways. Students can eat in the cafeteria and outdoor areas, but should not eat breakfast or lunch on the turf.

Meals

Breakfast, snack, lunch, and after school snacks are available to all students in 2024-25 at no cost. Students are still encouraged to complete the Free and Reduced Meals form because families who qualify may benefit from lower costs for certain standardized tests, yearbook purchase, and other supports at school. In addition, when families complete the eligibility form, it can help ensure that South receives funds to provide supports for students. 

All South Eugene students are encouraged to demonstrate positive and respectful behavior at all times, both in school and during school-related activities. Upholding responsible and mature conduct contributes to a supportive and enjoyable school environment for everyone. Teachers will provide specific guidelines for their classrooms to help maintain this positive atmosphere.

4J School District policies related to student conduct are detailed in the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook, available on the district website at [link].

The following guidelines support:

• The safety and well-being of all students and staff.
• A positive and productive learning environment for all students.

This list is designed to help you understand our expectations and foster a welcoming atmosphere. While not exhaustive, it provides key pointers for creating a respectful and effective school community:

• Academic integrity is a core value, and we appreciate your commitment to honesty.
• Respectful interactions are vital both inside and outside the classroom.
• Please turn off and store cellular phones during class to maintain focus.
• Dispose of trash properly and use recycling bins where appropriate.
• Skateboards and bicycles should be walked on campus and locked outside. A bike rack and skateboard lock are provided; please bring your own lock.
• Leave campus after your last class unless you are participating in a scheduled activity.
• To maintain a productive environment, avoid sitting in hallways or on stairs during class periods, and please walk in hallways and common areas.
• Tobacco products, vaporizers, and e-cigarettes are not permitted on or near campus.
• Respect private property and avoid trespassing.
• Clothing must be free from references to illegal substances, alcohol, tobacco, or inappropriate content.
• Possession, use, or distribution of drugs or alcohol on or near campus is prohibited.
• Metal spikes exceeding 1/4 inch are not allowed for safety reasons.

Behavior Guidelines                                        

Please remember that our behavioral expectations extend to all school-related events, whether on-campus or off-campus. Students participating in school-sponsored activities are guided by our district’s rules and benefit from the support of school personnel.

Following these guidelines helps ensure that all activities run smoothly and are enjoyable for everyone. Adhering to school rules and responding positively to instructions from school staff helps maintain your eligibility for activities and ensures a positive experience at school-sponsored events.

By engaging in a respectful and cooperative manner, you contribute to a supportive environment and help avoid any potential disruptions to your participation or attendance. Our goal is to foster a positive and productive experience for all students.

Academic Integrity

Genuine learning and academic success thrive on hard work and honest effort. At South Eugene High School, we value and encourage each student’s commitment to their own learning journey. We believe that integrity is key to achieving your academic goals, and we trust that all students will uphold this principle by avoiding any form of dishonesty.

We encourage you to take pride in your individual efforts and seek help or collaboration only when it is explicitly permitted by your instructor. Here are some examples of practices to avoid, as they do not align with our values of academic integrity:

• Copying or allowing others to copy assignments or test responses.
• Sharing or receiving information related to tests or assessments.
• Collaborating on individual assignments without teacher authorization.
• Presenting someone else’s work or ideas as your own without proper citation.
• Using someone else’s Canvas or academic account to alter or submit work or answers as if they were your own, or allowing others to use your account inappropriately.

If there are concerns about academic integrity, they will first be addressed at the class or department level. If needed, further review or action will be handled with support from an administrator.

Our goal is to support each student's growth and success by fostering a respectful and honest academic environment.

Cell Phones

To support an effective learning environment, cell phones and personal electronic devices should be put away and turned off during class unless your teacher has given specific permission for their use. Keeping devices stored helps maintain focus and respect for instructional time. If a device is used without permission, it may be temporarily held by the teacher until the end of the period. Repeated issues may lead to further discussions with your teacher or administrator to find a solution.

We encourage you to manage personal communications between classes, before school, or after school to ensure you get the most out of your academic experience. Remember, cell phones are not essential for success in class. For urgent family communication, the school office (541-790-8000) can assist in relaying important messages.

Thank you for helping us create a focused and respectful learning environment.

We invite all spectators to follow the guidance provided by 4J, OSAA (Oregon School Activities Association), and South Eugene High School to foster a positive and supportive atmosphere at all events, including sporting events, musical performances, and assemblies. Maintaining a sportsmanlike attitude is essential for creating a respectful environment, and we appreciate your cooperation in upholding these standards. The following is taken from the 2024/25 OSAA Handbook:

“All cheers, comments and actions shall be in direct support of one’s team. No cheers, comments or actions shall be directed at one’s opponent or at contest officials. Some examples of unacceptable conduct include but are not limited to disrespecting players by name, number, or position; negative cheers or chants; throwing objects on the playing surface; use of derogatory or racially explicit language; discriminatory harassment or conduct that creates a hostile environment that is disruptive to the educational environment.  Spectators shall not be permitted to use vulgar/offensive or racially/culturally insensitive language or engage in any racially/culturally insensitive action.”

Spectators in violation of OSAA sportsmanship expectations may be asked to leave the event and may face additional school and OSAA sanctioned consequences.

(excerpted from the 4J Student Rights & Responsibilities Handbook)

The responsibility for dress and grooming of a student rests primarily with the student and parents or guardians. A student’s dress or grooming should not affect participation in the educational program or school-related activities. Students may be directed to change dress or grooming when in violation of the rules below. 

Student dress and grooming may not interfere with or disrupt the educational environment of the student or others. Examples of clothing likely to disrupt the educational environment include clothing with language or symbols that are vulgar and plainly offensive, obscene or sexually explicit, racially divisive, drug-, alcohol- or tobacco-related, or indicative of gang activity or affiliation. 

Student dress and grooming may not threaten the health or safety of the student or others. For example, students must wear shoes while on school property or during school-sponsored activities. 

Schools may impose additional dress code requirements. Provisions for dress and grooming for special activities should arise directly out of the needs of the activity. 

Students have the right to dress in accordance with their gender identity. District schools are also committed to accommodating students who need an exception to the dress code for religious reasons. 

Questions regarding rights and responsibilities related to dress and grooming should be directed to the building principal. If an issue is not resolved at the building level, the parent or guardian may contact the secondary education director, assistant superintendent or superintendent. 

District 4J’s Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook explains student conduct policies and can be used to provide additional information for the following violations. Serious misconduct, can lead to significantly restrictive consequences, up to and including expulsion from the school district. Law enforcement intervention may be necessary in some cases if there is a violation of city, county, state or federal laws. Serious misconduct includes:

• Drugs, Narcotics, Alcohol Use/Possession/Distribution
• Damage or Destruction of School/Private Properties
• Weapons, Dangerous Instruments
• Assault or Threats of Harm
• Persistent Defiance of Authority
• Harassment or Discrimination
• Use of Obscene Language
• Theft and Stolen Property

Drug and Alcohol Use/Possession/Distribution: At South Eugene High School, our aim is to create a supportive environment free from substance abuse. We believe in the power of preventative education, starting at home and continuing through our school programs. Using drugs or alcohol not only breaks community laws and school rules but can also impact your health and future success.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, talking to a trusted adult can be very helpful. Our school counselors, nurse, or other supportive staff are available to explore positive alternatives and provide guidance. We also offer drug and alcohol counseling services on campus throughout the week to support our students.

We take the use, distribution, or sale of substances on campus or at school events very seriously. To maintain a safe and healthy environment, responses to such behavior may include loss of privileges, exclusion from activities, restorative practices, or disciplinary actions such as suspension or expulsion.

Thank you for working with us to ensure a positive and healthy school community.

Weapons: No student will possess, handle, or transmit any object that can reasonably be considered a dangerous weapon on school grounds or off the school grounds at any school-sponsored activity, function, or event, including in a student’s motor vehicle. A dangerous weapon is defined as any weapon, device, instrument, material, or substance, animate or inanimate, which under the circumstances in which it is used, attempted to be used, or threatened to be used is readily capable of causing death or serious physical injury, or is possessed in a manner in which another person could reasonably consider it to be a dangerous weapon. Dangerous weapons include, but are not limited to, guns and other firearms, knives, metal knuckles, straight razors, explosives, noxious and irritating gases or chemicals, poisons, drugs, or any other items determined by the building principal or designee to be fashioned with the intent to use or sell, to harm, threaten or harass students, staff members, parents, or patrons. 

School response and consequences will include: District 4J must initiate an expulsion hearing for any student who brings a dangerous weapon to school or uses an implement in school as a weapon.

Theft: It is important that all students honor both school and personal property, and work together to maintain a supportive environment.

We encourage students to approach situations with integrity and to seek help or guidance when needed. Taking or keeping property without permission is considered a serious issue, and includes actions such as theft or deception.

To address any concerns, our school may involve restorative practices, hold a parent conference, or take other appropriate actions such as suspension or expulsion. Additionally, any instance of theft may be reported to the Eugene Police for further support.

Discrimination and Harassment: To help students thrive and embrace new challenges, it's essential that our school remains a safe and welcoming space. At South Eugene High School, we are committed to creating an environment free from bullying, harassment, sexual assault, and discrimination. We believe in a supportive community where everyone is treated with respect.

We encourage students and parents to actively discuss and address these important issues. If a student’s behavior does not align with our values, it may result in disciplinary actions, including restorative practices, suspension, or expulsion, according to district policy.

If you witness or experience any form of bullying, harassment, intimidation, cyberbullying, hazing, sexual assault, teen dating violence, or discrimination, please:

• Report the Incident: Reach out to a staff member, the school principal, assistant principal, or visit this 4J page to make a report. You can also use SafeOregon. If you believe the principal is involved, contact the district Superintendent’s office instead.

• Work Towards a Resolution: Collaborate with assigned staff to address the issue. Our aim is to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, address any necessary consequences, and equip everyone with the skills to contribute to a positive school environment.

• File a Formal Complaint if Needed: If resolution efforts with school staff are not effective, you can file a formal complaint. The Complaint of Discrimination or Harassment form is available in South’s main office and at the 4J Education Center, 200 North Monroe Street, Eugene, 97402. For more information, contact South administrators at 541-790-8000 or the Superintendent's office at 541-790-7707.

It is our desire to teach and to shape appropriate behaviors. School responses and consequences will be progressive in nature and restorative where possible. School response for student behaviors may include: 

Restorative Discipline: Restorative practice is a strategy that seeks to repair relationships that have been damaged. This is a whole school relational approach to building school climate and addressing student behavior that fosters belonging over exclusion, social engagement over control, and meaningful accountability and skill-building over punishment.

In-School Suspension: Time spent in a designated supervised location before or after school or during lunch.

Restitution: Students will be held accountable for the destruction of property by fixing, replacing or paying for any damage.

Suspension: Suspensions may be assigned for up to ten days. Suspended students may not be on any school district property or attend any district school or school- related activity for the duration of the suspension. Students will have the right to make up comparable missed work in a reasonable time frame to be determined by the individual teacher.

Expulsion: Students may be expelled for up to one calendar year for serious or repeated offenses. Expelled students may not be on any school district property or attend any district school or school-related activity for the duration of the expulsion.

Students must be in good standing to be eligible to participate in many 4j sponsored activities.  Good standing: Passing 3 out of 5 classes. No disciplinary infractions within one calendar year.  Please note that OSAA sports have specific guidelines published by OSAA regarding academic eligibility.

Students are discouraged from bringing large sums of money and valuable items including personal electronic devices. The district is not responsible for personal property loss. Classrooms are NOT secure storage areas. To increase student safety at extracurricular events, student bags may be checked for inappropriate items upon entry. Lockers are the property of the district and may be searched in specific situations (4J Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook).

South Eugene has a number of Affinity Groups that foster student unity, student voice, student leadership, student and community awareness of current and historic issues, and the co-creation of positive climate and culture within school and beyond. Each year, students can see a list of Affinity Groups along with Advisors and meeting times & locations under the Activities tab on our SEHS website. We encourage students to get involved!

Asian and Pacific Islander Student Union (APISU)

Black Student Union (BSU)

Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA)

Jewish Student Union (JSU)

Latinx Student Union (LSU) 

Native American Student Union (NASU)

Clubs

School organizations and clubs provide opportunities for students to meet people and get involved in school and community activities. South has a number of excellent clubs that hold meetings and activities during the school year. Each year to activate or initiate a club interested students must find an advisor and have the advisor complete a Club application form.  Watch for the dates and deadlines in September. Don’t hesitate…GET INVOLVED.  Students are encouraged to attend club meetings at any time during the year even if they determine they would like to participate midyear.  We encourage you to get connected! 

The student class schedule is based on the courses requested during forecasting last spring and on the availability of elective courses.  Students’ schedules are final unless one of the following circumstances applies:

1. Academic misplacement, as determined and indicated by the teacher.
2. A necessary graduation requirement is missing.
3. Failure in a prerequisite class.
4. A technical error or an obvious mistake.
5. A health issue, requiring documentation by a physician.
6. An open period is required to access an off-campus class.

If there is a needed schedule correction as defined by one of the six criteria listed above, corrections will be made during a schedule correction period via use of a Schedule Change form or in-person schedule change opportunity.  To initiate a change, students should complete a Schedule Correction Form available on the SEHS website.

Changes during the First Week of School

We have a limited ability to add courses or change courses once the school year has begun and class size limits have been met.  When possible, changes may be made if the requests meet one of the six criteria above. 

Course Changes after the First Week of a New Trimester

The criteria to change a class are the same throughout the school year.  To ensure stability for students, staff, and classroom, any course change requests must be made within the first five days of the new trimester.  Classes dropped after the first 15 days of the trimester will appear on a student’s transcript with a WD (withdrawal).

Grades 9 & 10

All 9^th and 10^th grade students are required to have a full schedule of courses that provide an opportunity for 8 credits for the school year.  For that reason, some 9^th and 10^th grade students may automatically be assigned to courses that they may not have originally requested in order to fill their schedule.  Schedules for 9^th grade students are determined primarily through Middle School recommendations.  For that reason, very few scheduling change requests will be considered for freshmen.  In 2022-23, all ninth-grade students participate in a 9th grade Humanities block that includes ELA, SS, AXE class and Health.

Please visit our school website for links to more scheduling information including schedule change deadlines and processes for adding and dropping a class at the beginning of each trimester.

Staying Safe in Lane County

We include the following information because we care about everyone’s well being. Taking steps to avoid risks that are present across the nation and within our own county is an important part of being well and staying safe.

Transportation Safety:

• Never use a handheld device while driving. It’s illegal, and distraction can be deadly,.
• Observe the speed limit. The speed limit is 5 mph in our SEHS parking lot.
• Adhere to graduated license rules that limit young drivers from having passengers. 
• Always wear a seatbelt and ensure passengers are wearing theirs
• Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Always wear a helmet when biking, skateboarding, roller blading, etc.

Fentanyl Poisoning:  Fentanyl is a synthetic drug that has become a significant concern nationally, including right here in Lane County. 

• Never take any prescription drug that has not been specifically prescribed to you by a medical practitioner.
• Realize that pills that look like prescription drugs may be fake and contain lethal doses of other substances. It is sometimes not possible to tell if they contain lethal amounts of fentanyl even if someone tests them.

Human-Trafficking Prevention:

• Recognize that human-trafficking/sex-trafficking is not an issue that affects communities near and far. It is an issue in Lane County, particularly the I-5 corridor.
• Do not share your personal information with people online or arrange to meet alone with strangers you have met online. 
• If you are concerned that someone may be subjected to human trafficking/sex trafficking, report it. 

Mental Health Support

• Mental Health is just as important as physical health. Know that supports are available if you want to talk with someone or are concerned about a friend.  
• Students may speak with an SEHS Counselor in the Counseling Center.

South counselors can assist students in connecting with mental health support.

• HOOTS (Helping Out Our Teens in Schools) is available 
• Families can get assistance locating a mental health professional through Care Solace at caresolace.org