CONSTITUTION OF THE LAKE TRAVIS CHEERLEADERS

Transcription

1 CONSTITUTION OF THE LAKE TRAVIS CHEERLEADERS Mission Statement It is the mission of the Lake Travis High School Cheerleaders to uphold the pride and tradition of the school. We will strive to consistently work hard, to practice and perform with heart, to dedicate ourselves to this program, and above all to have fun. We recognize that the Lake Travis High School Cheerleading program is not built on one person, but on our team as a whole. As coaches, we will strive to instill tradition, honor, commitment and pride in our team and in each other to reach our goals. We will work to be organized, consistent and supportive to make this an exemplary program. Each member of the Lake Travis ISD Cheerleader squads must adhere to the following articles. It must be understood that as a member of this organization, the student becomes a representative of the Lake Travis Independent School District and Lake Travis High School, and each member must maintain high moral and ethical standards. ARTICLE I PURPOSE The purpose of the Lake Travis High School Cheerleader is to promote loyal school spirit, encourage quality performance, and high academic standards. Through the development of cheerleading skills, leadership, cooperation, self-discipline, sportsmanship in each individual member, the Lake Travis High School Cheerleaders will fulfill his/her purpose for the benefit of the Lake Travis High School Independent School District and the community of the Lake Travis Independent School District. We, the Lake Travis High School Cheerleaders, hereby pledge our time, our ability, our minds, and hearts to the purpose. We agree to abide by the rules and regulations as set forth in this constitution. ARTICLE II MEMBERSHIP AND ELIGIBILITY. General Criteria A. Anyone who meets the set qualifications will not be discriminated against because of sex, race, religion, color, national origin, or disability. B. Prospective members must reside with a parent/guardian within the attendance zone of their school within the Lake Travis Independent School District or show proof of future LTISD residence within the appropriate attendance zone. C. Prospective members shall be entering grades nine (9) through twelve (12). D. Varsity cheerleaders must be entering grades 10 through 12. Junior Varsity Cheerleaders may be entering grades LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 1

2 E. Varsity Limited members must be entering the 12 th grade and have been a member of the Lake Travis Cheer Team the prior year in good standing. F. Must be in compliance with State Compulsory Attendance laws. (Must be counted present for 90% of school days in all courses. G. Each candidate must pass a discipline check made by the principal and assistant principals from the middle and high schools. H. Prospective members must have a parent/guardian attend a tryout orientation meeting or contact the coaches for an appointment prior to the actual audition. Failure to attend or meet with the coaches will result in the candidate s loss of ability to tryout. I. All financial obligations to any LTISD affiliated programs must be cleared. J. Prospective members must have a signed contract by students, parents, and coach if previously resigned or dismissed from the team. Section 2. Section 3. Section 4. Section 5 Transfer Students Students new to the district may be granted a tryout only if she/he has qualified to become a member of the team of the accredited school which she/he previously attended, has met all of the general criteria listed and has the approval of the coaches, and the on-site administrator. The student will try out in front of the coaching staff, designated administrator, and one judge. The decision will be based on the tryout criteria and decision is final. Prior to the tryout the student must provide the following: 1. Documentation from former coach stating that she/he was in good standing upon leaving the district. 2. Noted documentation of GPA from former registrar or report card. 3. A Student will not be allowed to schedule a tryout after the first day of school. Early Graduation Candidates or returning members who plan to graduate at midterm may not tryout for the Lake Travis Cheerleaders. Required Forms All forms must be on file prior to or on the designated date in order for a candidate to qualify for tryouts. Tryout Process The tryout process will be detailed in the tryout packet prior to tryouts each spring. Section 6 Viewing the Score Sheet A candidate that does not make a team at all or does not make Varsity may elect to view his/her individual judge tryout score sheets following the tryout. An appointment must be made with the on-site administrator in charge of the tryout. The candidate may only view his/her personal score LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 2

3 sheets. These sheets may not be removed from the administrator s office and the scores cannot be written down. Candidate has 5 (in-school) days following the tryout to view scores. Section 7 Appealing Tryout Decisions Appeals must be scheduled within 5 (in-school) days following the audition date. 1. The candidate must file a formal appeal with the LTISD administration of Lake Travis HS. 2. A notice will be issued to students, parents, coaches and administrator, detailing the appeal. 3. The appeal will be investigated 4. The appropriate administrator will make a decision regarding the candidate s participation based upon information gathered through the investigation and will notify the student, coaches and student s parents on the decision. This decision will be final. Section 2 Section 3 ARTICLE III PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS Term of Service The term of service will be from tryout to tryout and members who will not be returning the following school year will continue until school is dismissed for the year. Participation Members must participate in all activities, including but not limited to, practices, cheer camp, clinics, sporting events and games, and special events in which the organization is involved, pending eligibility status. Members unwilling to adhere to this rule or unable to perform required tasks due to an injury will appear at the event or practice in full uniform and sit in the designated area. The coaches reserve the right to place any member on sanctions. Attendance Members must attend at least 51% of the school day prior to a performance. Field trips and school-sponsored activities are the only exceptions. Any absence from required activities, including but not limited to, class and afterschool practices and performances must follow the absence procedure in the Handbook Section 4 Health and Fitness Members must maintain a level of physical fitness and health that will allow them to participate fully in all cheer activities and performances. A current UIL physical is required to be on file throughout the year. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 3

4 ARTICLE IV UIL Side by Side Eligibility for Performance Academic Eligibility The coaching staff will conduct grade checks at the times designated by the official LTISD Eligibility Calendar and Guidelines as set forth by the University Interscholastic League. Any member whose recorded grade average in any course at the time of an eligibility grade check is less than a 70 will become ineligible to participate in any cheer event as set forth by the UIL eligibility calendar. Ineligible students must continue to fulfill fundraising, practice, and any other designated requirements. However, the ineligible cheerleader will not be permitted to wear the uniform, travel with or be on the sidelines with the team. Ineligible cheerleaders must continue to practice with their squads. ARTICLE V PRACTICES & CLASS REQUIREMENTS Section 2 Section 3 Practice Sessions Before and after school, summer and student holiday practice/meetings may be required. Time specifications will be established as camp dates, competition dates, and other school schedules become available. All practices are mandatory for all members. Saturday and extra practices may be held throughout the year. Members are accountable for all planned events. The coaches will attempt to provide prior notice for all events. However, cheerleaders will be required to attend sporting events such as playoff games in which little prior notice is available and rare impromptu practices when needed. Practices are closed to the general public. Parents/guardians are to wait outside of the practice facility. Outside of School Practice Limitations (U.I.L. Side by Side) Students will practice, in organized practice, a maximum of 8 hours outside of the school day each week. The school week begins at 12:01 a.m. Monday and ends after the last class on Friday. Punctuality Members must arrive on time to practice sessions and performances, wear specific practice attire and stay until dismissed by the coaches. Section 4 Attire Clothing within the dress code regulation must be worn coming and leaving practice/performance. Assigned team wear for rehearsals can be required. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 4

5 Section 5 Section 6 Rules Gum, food, cell phones, and jewelry are not allowed in practice sessions. Hair should be in a ponytail at all times during practice. All tutorials, make-up tests, etc. shall not be scheduled during practice session. Inability to practice or perform A. The member who is absent from practice due to illness will be excused from workouts/performance only by receipt of a written note from the parent/guardian. The note is due immediately upon return to practice. B. Any member suffering from injury must present written documentation of the injury from a school trainer or physician. The injured member will continue to dress out, assume all normal responsibilities and attend all practices. The member may be released to the school trainer for therapy at the coaches discretion. However, the member must check in with the coaches and be dismissed by the coaches. A written statement from the school trainer or attending physician will be required to return to practicing and performing. C. Any member placed on sanctions, ineligible, ill or suspended due to disciplinary or academic reasons will dress in appropriate workout attire during the designated class period or practice and assume all responsibilities related to practice during that time period. The coaches reserve the right to place any member who is unable to practice or perform on sanctions for performance routines, including competition routines. Students will be placed back into the performance only at the discretion of the coaches. Article VI PERFORMANCE AUDITIONS A. Cheerleaders must treat every appearance (i.e., pep rallies, games, competitions, charity events) as a performance. Inability or refusal to perform a certain routine task due to memory mistakes, required jumps, tumbling, or stunts will result in the cheerleader being removed from that performance. B. Varsity members may be required to audition for all football games, pep rallies, and performances (to include camp), if deemed necessary by the coaches. C. Periodic auditions may be held for the JV Squad in front of the coaching staff. Coaches will have the final say as to whether or not the member will be able to perform in that week s events. D. All members are required to participate in the scheduled audition unless injured (must have a doctor s note) or ineligible. E. If a member is absent the day of auditions, she/he must reschedule the audition with the head coach within one day of the original or lose LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 5

6 her eligibility to audition. F. If a member does not make the cut, she/he will still attend the performance in uniform and sit with the coach. ARTICLE VII UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT Section 2 Section 3 Provided Equipment Each member will be supplied with several school owned uniforms. The member is responsible for the upkeep of each item issued and will be held financially responsible for the item if damaged or lost. All issued equipment will remain property of the Lake Travis Cheerleaders. Purchased Uniforms Members are responsible for purchasing practice uniforms and other necessary clothing and accessories required. A list of expected expenses will be included in the tryout packet each year. All personal items must be labeled with the member s name. The coaching staff is not liable for lost team wear. Uniform Rules A. Members will appear at designated activities with proper or designated uniforms and must wear all parts of the uniform while at event/performance. B. Practice Attire/Uniforms are to be clean, kept in good condition and fit properly before each practice and/or performance and must conform to standards set by the coaches and the administration. C. Uniforms will not be worn in anywhere other than scheduled events. The use of any part of the cheerleading uniform, clothing and supplies other than at scheduled events must be approved by the coaches. D. All cheerleading clothing, uniforms, jackets, etc. are to be worn by current HS cheerleaders only. Members may not loan out any LTHS cheerleading uniforms to any non-cheerleader. Students who have been dismissed or voluntarily removed from the squad may not wear any cheerleading apparel in public under any circumstances. E. While in/out of uniform or wearing any LTHS cheerleading attire, members must conduct themselves appropriately and abide by all cheerleading regulations and school rules. Any misconduct by a cheerleader in/out of uniform or any school related attire at any location may result in severe disciplinary action or dismissal. See FO Local Policy and the LTISD Extra-Curricular Code of Conduct. F. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 6

7 Section 4 Equipment A. Poms will be issued before football season and are the responsibility of each individual cheerleader. B. All equipment should be taken care of properly. C. Items will be used only for school events. D. All items provided by the school must be returned at the end of the year. Anything not returned must be paid for and is the responsibility of the student. E. Cheerleading equipment will not be loaned to anyone. ARTICLE VIII PERFORMANCES, ACTIVITIES, and ATTENDANCE Required Performances A. Spring Football Game B. Cheer Camp C. Pep Rally performances throughout the year D. Football Games E. Volleyball Games F. Play-Off Games for all sports as assigned G. Basketball games H. Various other designated athletic events I. Other Performances as designated by the coaches Section 2 Performance/Activity Rules A. Members will arrive to an event dressed in full uniform (females: hair as assigned, make-up on and ready to perform) unless told otherwise by the coaches. B. Members will meet at a designated place and a designated time for all events. C. Members will enter an event together as one group. D. Members will follow the officer s instructions and stay alert/ready for the next set of instructions or for a change in their normal activity. E. Members will remain in the designated area at all times unless given permission to leave by the coaches. F. Members will cheer as a group. There will be no visitors on the sidelines or at the rail. If a parent or guardian needs to relay a message they may speak with the coaches to either give the student the message or to speak with the student. G. Gum chewing is not allowed and the consumption of food is not allowed except during designated breaks, unless specified by a medical note. H. Members should exhibit polite, reserved and respectful behaviors at all times. No profanity, gestures, derogatory sounds or remarks will be tolerated. I. Members should not change/adjust any part of their uniforms in the public view. J. During the national anthem and school songs members must stand at attention with NO TALKING. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 7

8 K. At sporting events, members should follow/pay attention to the game. L. Cell phones or electronic devices may not be seen or heard. Permission must be granted by the coaches to use them. In the event that the coaches determine that the presence of a cell phone or electronic device prohibits a member from completing his/her responsibilities, cell phones or electronic devises will not be allowed at an event and future events and the member is subject to disciplinary action. M. Members should wait for the coaches to release cheerleaders for water/restroom breaks. N. Members must support the Cavalettes and the band by being attentive to their performances. O. Non-drivers must arrange for transportation to arrive immediately after games/performances. P. In the event of an emergency or injury, members should follow the set emergency plan: 1. All members should remain calm. 2. The officers will continue to lead the squads in practice/performance or in moving away from the scene, as necessary. 3. All members will follow all emergency directives. Section 3. Section 4 Section 5 Excused Absences Absence or tardiness from any cheerleading activity or event will be unexcused except for the circumstances listed below: A. Personal illness or accident (with a doctor s note) B. Death in the family C. Special school activities with advanced approval from the coach Unexpected Absence Procedures In the event of an illness, accident, or death in the family, the member must inform the coaches of the absence and the reason for the absence prior to the class/performance. The parent/guardian of the member is required to call the coach and speak to her directly, leave a message, or send an . Leaving a message with a captain or a senior is not sufficient. A parent note and/or doctor s note must be submitted to the coach upon the member s return to school or practice. Two consecutive absences will require a doctor s note. If a cheerleader is absent from school on a performance day, the cheerleader or parent must follow these procedures. Unexcused Absences Absences for reasons other than those listed above will be unexcused. Work, doctor or dental appointments, or other outside activities must not interfere with practices or performances and will be considered unexcused. Any unexcused absence may affect performance eligibility and/or result in probation or dismissal. Unexcused absences must be submitted in the Absence Request Form at which time coaches will deem whether the absence will be approved or unapproved. Extenuating circumstances will be considered in making this decision. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 8

9 Section 6 Section 7. Section 8. Section All (Excused and Unexcused) Absence Procedures At least two weeks prior to an event and/or practice, a member may submit an Absence Request Form and set up an appointment with the head coach to discuss personal conflicts with the cheer schedule. At this time, the head coach will determine whether the absence will be excused, approved unexcused, or unapproved unexcused. Unreported Unexcused Absences Unreported unexcused absences will not be tolerated at any function. Chronic Excused Absences Chronic excused absences, failure to comply with absence policies, and/or falsifying reasons for absences will result in forfeiture of a performance, or result in sanctions or possible dismissal. Absence Responsibilities A member is responsible for obtaining information that was given on the day of the absence. Any cheerleader who misses material learned in class or practice may be subject to removal from that performance. Absence from Fundraisers Unexcused absences from a team fundraiser will result in demerits and any other consequence deemed necessary by the coach. Absences During Summer Practice Summer events are mandatory for each member. This includes practices, cheer camp and other activities prior to the first day of school. 2 Permanent Demerits will be assigned for each day missed that is unexcused. Participation in Cheerleading Outside of LTHS High school cheerleading obligations supersede club or all-star events and practices. ARTICLE IX TRANSPORTATION AND TRAVEL Provided Transportation When possible, bus transportation will be provided for activities which cheerleaders attend. Students will not be allowed to drive unless the parent, coaches, and/or administration grant prior approval. Each member will conduct him/herself appropriately and abide by all bus transportation regulations and school rules. Section 2 Arranged Transportation All members are required to ride to and from all activities by bus unless extenuating circumstances occur, which require approval from the coaches. In this case, a parental permission slip must be submitted to the coaches at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled event. If a member has requested an early release from an activity, departure may not occur until all performance events LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 9

10 have been concluded unless extenuating circumstances occur. The coaches must be contacted prior to departure. Section 3 Transportation Waiver At coaches specified events, cheerleaders will be provided the opportunity to leave from the event with parent/guardian upon dismissal from the coaches. Members must turn in a waiver at least by the established due date prior to the event. All members MUST have parent/guardian sign out with coaches upon dismissal. ARTICLE X GENERAL CONDUCT Section 2 Section 3 Section 4 Standard of Conduct Certain standards are necessary for the integrity and reputation of any organization. Each member should be a leader within the school and should set a good example at all times. Members are expected to have and maintain a character above reproach. Personal appearance, habits, and actions of which there can be no criticism, are required, as each cheerleader represents the Lake Travis Independent School District before the public at all times. Handbook and Constitution All cheerleaders will abide by the Lake Travis ISD Student Handbook, this constitution, and the LTISD Extra-Curricular Code of Conduct. Students must also follow the written and oral directives of all LTISD employees. LTISD Rules LTISD rules will be strictly applied whenever the team is officially representing LTISD, while attending a school-sponsored activity, while in uniform, or while on a school sponsored trip. Each member must be aware that her/his conduct off-campus or on the Internet (Public Domain) reflects on the team image and that any member who is guilty of engaging in any illegal activity will be subject to dismissal. If an incident occurs that violates the Lake Travis ISD Student Handbook, a member will be given disciplinary action from the school, as well as from the cheerleading organization. Communication Issues appropriate for discussion with the coach and/or school administrator: - Mental and physical treatment of a student - Student plan for success - Student behavior - Student safety Issues not appropriate for discussion with a coach: - Squad selection of cheers, chants, stunts, or elements of a performance - Any situation that deals with the other students/cheer members Communication parents should expect from a coach: LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 10

11 - Requirements the coach has for his/her student and the squad - Locations, dates, and times of practices, games and events - Squad requirements of special equipment, uniform, squad rules/regulations, travel arrangements, and off-season expectations If at any time a cheer member or parent feels he/she needs to discuss a problem or complaint, please follow the following procedures: 1. Call and set up an appointment with the cheer coach. 2. Outline and define objectives for the meeting and stick to discussing the facts only. 3. Do not confront the coach before, during or after a practice, game or event. Section 4 Inappropriate Behavior Members must display appropriate behavior both in and while out of school. Suspension or dismissal can result from any of the following reasons or by reasonable belief of participation of the infraction. Suspension or dismissal is at the discretion of the coaches and/or administration: A. Smoking B. Use of alcohol and/or illegal drugs C. Improper language or obscenities D. Public nudity or promiscuous behavior E. Poor sportsmanship F. Failure to follow school rules and policies G. Improper conduct/attitude H. Lack of respect toward coaches, other team members, faculty, school personnel or school property I. Inappropriate use of social media (members must be careful that postings do not portray the cheerleading organization or any of its members negatively. For safety reasons postings should not give out personal information or cheerleading schedules). J. Stealing/shoplifting K. Chronic misconduct L. Chronic absences M. Hazing N. Truancy O. Forgery P. Honor Code Violation/Cheating Q. In School Suspension R. Assignment to AEP/DAEP S. Suspension from school T. Harassment of anyone in person or through any electronic means. U. Disciplinary action involving any law enforcement agency and/or security guards, on or off campus. V. Functions in which alcohol and/or drugs are served and consumed, whether or not parental consent is given. W. Any offense deemed severe by the coaches and/or administration. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 11

12 ARTICLE XI SANCTIONS, DISMISSAL, RESIGNATION AND THE APPEAL PROCESS Sanctions A. Sanctions are a designated period of time in which the member may participate in limited organizational activities as determined by the coaches. A sanctions contract will be written for the member and the member will be notified of his/her sanction regulations. B. Should it become necessary for a member to be placed on sanctions a second time, dismissal may occur. C. Reasons for sanctions: 1. Conduct/Attitude 2. Trying out for the cheerleading organization after regaining eligibility due to dismissal or resignation. The sanction period will be determined at that time. Additional requirements may be determined by the coaches. 3. Accumulating five demerits in a grading period 4 Unexcused Unapproved Absence 5. Office Referral resulting in Disciplinary Action. D. Sanctions prohibit the member from participation at mandatory functions, performances, and special events. However, the member is required to participate in practice sessions. If the member on sanctions attends a designated activity, he/she is not allowed to wear any part of the team uniform to school or activities during the sanction period. Section 3 Dismissal A. Dismissal involves the loss of membership from the LTHS Cheerleading organization. All equipment and uniforms must be returned and all financial obligations must be cleared within one week of dismissal. Once a member has been dismissed, he/she loses all privileges of the organization. Students may not wear any part of any cheerleading uniforms or additional clothing, jackets, etc. in public. The former cheerleader will be held financially responsible for any and all items ordered. No refunds will be made. B. In cases of dismissal, the coaches will confer with the principal/administrator in charge. C. Reasons for dismissal: 1. A second time that the member is sanctioned for any reason. Sanctions do not have to occur consecutively. 2. The second time that the member is declared academically ineligible for a grading period. Ineligibility does not have to occur consecutively. 3. In or out of school Suspension. 4. Failure to meet necessary requirements to be removed from sanctions. 5. Failure to comply with absence policies. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 12

13 6. Assignment to AEP/DAEP 7. Receipt of 10th demerit regardless of number of merits. 8. Second assignment to Saturday School for non-attendance issues. 9. Excessive severe disciplinary problems as deemed by the coaches and Administrators. Section 4 Section 5 Section 6 Appeal Process The order in which a parent/guardian or team member should follow concerning the appeal of a discipline decision should be: A. Reference to the Cheerleader Handbook and constitution. B. Contact or conference with the coaches. C. Contact or conference with the Associate/ Assistant principal or principal. D. The principal will advise to the next procedure according to district policy. E. Time limitations involving the appeal of a decision will be followed as established in LTISD Board Policy FNG (Local). Resignation or Electing Not To Return Resignation shall be defined as a choice made by the individual member that he/she no longer desires participation in the cheerleading organization. Resignation procedures involve a conference with the coaches and a letter of resignation from the resigning member, signed and dated with the parent/guardian signature. Resignations are permanent decisions and the member will not be reinstated under any circumstance. All uniforms, clothing, and equipment must be turned in and financial obligations must be cleared within one week of resignation. Students may not wear any part of the cheerleading uniform or additional clothing, jackets, etc. in public. The member will be held financially responsible for any and all items already ordered. No refunds will be made. After Resignation Once resignation, election not to return or dismissal for reasons other than academic, from the cheerleading organization has occurred, reinstatement will not be allowed during the current year. Upon resignation or dismissal, the former member loses all privileges of cheerleading membership and may not be a guest at cheerleading functions. The cheerleader is also ineligible for re-audition the following year. He/she may try-out the year after under strict guidelines and acceptance of possible sanctions. ARTICLE XII MERIT/DEMERIT SYSTEM General Rules A. Merits may be given to members for participation above and beyond required cheerleading activities. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 13

14 B. Merit activities will be announced by the coaches throughout the year. C. A special patch will be awarded to members who accumulate twenty merits by the cheerleading banquet each year. D. Demerits may be given to members, as necessary, by the coaches and/or officer(s) at any practice, performance or event. E. Members are responsible for checking their demerits/merit status. Section 2 Section 3 Section 4 Section 5 Calculating Period for Sanctions A. The calculating period will be determined by the following: 1. Immediately following tryouts to the beginning of school. 2. First grading period 3. Second grading period 4. The beginning of the second semester until tryouts. B. A total of 5 demerits during a calculating period will result in sanctions. C. A total of 3 demerits in a calculating period will result in the loss of leadership position on the team. The leader will return to team member status. D. Permanent Demerits are automatically carried over each calculating period after the infraction until the next tryout. Calculating Period for Dismissal A cumulative total of demerits will be kept from tryout to tryout. A total of 10 demerits during this time (tryout to tryout) will result in dismissal. Demerits regarding attendance of practice, performance, or scheduled activities: A. Failure to report to the coaches any absence from any class or afterschool practice, performance or meeting prior to the event. (1) B. Tardy to a practice, event, or meeting. (1) C. Inappropriate attire for a practice, performance, or event. (1) D. Reporting to a scheduled activity without necessary supplies/equipment. (1) E. Leaving practice, performance, or an event early without permission. (3) F. Unexcused Absence from any required activity, performance or practice. (2 Permanent Demerits and possible sanctions.) Demerits regarding practice sessions/performances : All one demerit each A. Chewing gum. B. Wearing any form of jewelry. C. Messy hair, hair in eyes, or hair worn incorrectly at practice, event or performance. D. Wearing colored nail polish while performing in uniform. Section 6 Demerits regarding attendance of practice, performance, or scheduled activities: A. Leaving practice, performance, or an activity early without permission. a. 1st occurrence 3 demerits LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 14

15 b. 2nd occurrence 1 permanent demerit with possible sanctions c. 3rd occurrence 2 permanent demerits with sanctions B. Approved absence from mandatory rehearsal not including death, illness, or school related absence a. 1 st occurrence 2 demerits b. 2 nd occurrence 3 demerits possible sanctions c. 3 rd occurrence 1 permanent with sanctions C. Approved absence from mandatory rehearsal not including death, illness, or school related absence with one week or more advance notice a. 1 st occurrence 1 demerits b. 2 nd occurrence 2 demerits possible sanctions c. 3 rd occurrence 3 demerits with sanctions D. Approved absence from Performance activity not including death, illness, or school related absence a. 1 st occurrence 2 Permanent demerits b. 2 nd occurrence 3 Permanent demerits with sanctions c. 3 rd occurrence 4 permanent demerits with sanctions E. Unexcused unapproved absence from performance or mandatory rehearsal activity a. 1 st occurrence 2 permanent demerits with sanctions b. 2 nd occurrence 4 permanent demerits with sanctions c. 3 rd occurrence - 5 permanent demerits; Possible dismissal Section 7 Demerits regarding uniforms and/or equipment: A. Not being in complete uniform, having soiled uniform, or a uniform in poor condition upon inspection. (1) B. Eating food or drinking beverages while wearing any part of a designated uniform without permission. (1) C. Losing or leaving equipment, clothing parts, uniform parts/personal items at practice or other events. (1) D. Failure to label all personal equipment. (1) E. Dirty or ripped cheer shoes. (1) F. Missing parts of the uniform or wearing the wrong clothing. (1) G. Failure to return uniforms by the designated date. (1) H. Failure to wear uniform (or other required attire) to school on designated days.(1) Section 8 Demerits regarding lack of discipline/insubordination (number determined by the coach) A. Showing disrespect toward other team members, the coaches, school facilities, or school personnel B. Using obscenities, derogatory sounds, or remarks at any function C. Talking during practice after one specific warning. D. Unnecessary talking from the time the team leaves an area, as a group, to the time of return. E. Using obscenities at any time. F. Display of poor sportsmanship. G. In appropriate public display of affection at school, at school related events, or in uniform. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 15

16 H. Not participating or refusing spirit yells or spirit activities. I. Disobeying a Captain s command. J. Not standing in position and/or talking before the game/performance begins. K. Not standing at attention during the National Anthem or the opposing school song. L. Not following a Captain s instructions. Failure to stay alert/ready for the next command. M. Not remaining in the designated performance area at all times unless given permission to leave by the coaches. N. Failure to return to cheering following a scheduled break. O. Talking to people in the stands, during a performance or on the field without Coach s permission, parent included. If a parent or guardian needs to relay a message, they may wait until half time or write a note and give it to the coaches. P. Not exhibiting polite, reserved, and respectful behavior at all times. Q. Adjusting/removing any part of their uniform in public. This will be allowed only on restroom breaks. R. Not following/paying attention to the game at sporting events. S. Not exhibiting an enthusiastic, motivated spirit/attitude. T. Using cell phones or electronic devices. U. Anything, in the opinion of the coaches, which is deemed severe by the coaches and/or administration. Section 9. Grading System for the Cheerleading Class A. Grades in the cheerleading class will be based upon demerits and merits points will be deducted for each demerit merits will erase the deduction for 1 demerit ARTICLE XIII OFFICERS/LEADERSHIP POSITIONS Officer Tryout Process The tryout process will be detailed in the tryout packet prior to leadership tryouts each spring. ARTICLE XIV Competition Squad Eligibility: Any Lake Travis Cheerleader in good standing may try out for the competition squad. Tryouts will be held after cheer team tryouts. Section 2 Requirements: A list of required skills will be available prior to tryouts. Selection will be made by the Coaching Staff with input from other cheerleading professionals. The cheerleader must be able to enroll in the LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 16

17 Competition Class held during the school day, and to attend extra practices as scheduled. The number of competition members will be determined by the coaching staff. Alternates may be selected at tryouts. Alternates will learn all routines, and attend all classes and practices. Alternates will move into the routine through a tryout process as needed by injury or academic ineligibility. Section 3 Section 4 Section 5 Commitment: The Competition Squad will require more time in addition to regular cheerleading duties. Competition Cheerleaders will be attending all games, performances, about three competitions, and many hours of practice. The financial obligations of competition squad members will be detailed prior to competition tryouts. Resignation from Competition Squad: any member who resigns from the competition squad is also choosing to resign from the Lake Travis High School Cheerleading Program. ARTICLE XV FINANCES AND FUNDRAISING. Section 2. Section 3. Section 4. Financial Expectations: A. Under the supervision of the coaches, financial policies and expectations shall be made known at the mandatory orientation meeting. Payment plans may be arranged with the coaches.. B. If a member is dismissed or resigns, she/he will be financially responsible for any and all items ordered. No refund will be issued. Clothing and Equipment Orders for Members All financial obligations must be met prior to the distribution of each member s clothing and/or equipment. Payment dates will be distributed prior to orders. Fundraising: A. Fundraising responsibilities will be outlined by the booster club each year. B. The coach and the Cheerleader Booster Club will organize fundraisers to help defray team expenses. Members of the Cheerleading organization will be required (and their parents strongly encouraged) to participate in team fundraisers. Personal Account Personal accounts will not exist. Members are responsible for the financial expectations set and agreed upon at the tryout meeting (camp, clothing, miscellaneous, etc.). Section 5. Turning Money In A. All money shall be turned into the coach before/after practice each day. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 17

18 B. Money/checks shall be placed in an envelope with the name of the member and the purpose of the money written on the outside of the envelope. C. Checks should be made out to Lake Travis High School Cheer unless otherwise instructed. D. Each check should have the member s name and reason for payment listed. E. The Cheerleader organization will not assume the responsibility of unattended money. Section 6. Section 7 Insufficient Funds A. If a check is returned insufficient, it will be the team member s responsibility to pay any necessary bank charges and pay by cash or money order. B. Returned checks will be handled in one of two ways: 1. Only a cashier s check will be accepted for future payments after the receipt of a returned check. 2. If it is a fundraising activity it is the responsibility of the member who collected the check to collect the funds. C. Receipt of a second insufficient check will require that all payments be made by cash or money order, thereafter. Financial Aid To qualify for financial aid, a member must meet the eligibility guidelines for the National Free and Reduced Lunch Program, as verified by the LTHS administration. Any member wishing to apply for financial aid should contact the head coach. ARTICLE XVI PARENTAL/GUARDIANS RESPONSIBILITIES Section 2 Section 3 The parent/guardian must give permission for the member to fulfill all responsibilities of being a member of the Cheerleading organization before she/he is officially accepted. The parent/guardian must be willing to meet all financial obligations involved in having his /her child as a member of the Cheerleading organization. The parent/guardian is responsible for arranging transportation to and from all activities, except when transportation is provided by the school district and the coach. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 18

19 Section 4 Section 5 Section 6 Section 7 The parent/guardian must be willing to participate in the various Cheerleader fundraisers and activities. These fundraisers help provide the support to run our program and support our athletes. The parent/guardian must be willing to cooperate with the coaching staff and keep them informed of illness/injury. Each parent/guardian of a team member is required to attend mandatory meetings and should attend monthly Booster Club meetings throughout the year. The parent/guardian should be supportive of his/her child and the Cheerleader organization. ARTICLE XVII CHEERLEADER BOOSTER CLUB The costs of running a successful program are extensive. The school district provides uniforms, and a budget for supplies. All other costs must be covered through the Cheerleader Booster Club. These costs include, but are not limited to, additional uniforms, warm-ups, additional supplies, practice food, and the banquet. Section 2 Section 3 Section 4 The Lake Travis ISD administration, Lake Travis High School principal, and the head coach determines the policies of the Cheerleader Booster Club. The Cheerleader Booster Club must recognize this authority and work within a framework as prescribed by the school administration. The head coach will serve as a member of the executive board and will be consulted and notified to all meetings held by the executive board or committee chairpersons. All projects and fundraisers planned by the Cheerleader Booster Club must meet with the approval of the head coach and/or principal of Lake Travis High School. All money expenditures by the Cheerleader Booster Club must meet with the approval of the head coach and/or principal of Lake Travis High School. Article XVIII Miscellaneous Information. The constitution is subject to change at any time, due to policy changes by the Texas Education Agency, Lake Travis ISD School Board, and the principal or with approval from the coaches and the principal. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 19

20 Section 2. At any time, additions may be made to the constitution with the approval of the coaches and the Lake Travis High School Administration. As per: FO Local EXTRACURRICULAR STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR With the approval of the principal and Superintendent, sponsors and coaches of extracurricular activities, including interscholastic athletics and marching band, may develop and enforce standards of behavior that are higher than the District-developed Student Code of Conduct and may condition membership or participation in the activity on adherence to those standards. Extracurricular standards of behavior may take into consideration conduct that occurs at any time, on or off school property. No provision of an extracurricular behavioral standard shall have the effect of discriminating on any basis. Students shall be informed of any extracurricular behavior standards at the beginning of each school year or, in the case of interscholastic athletics and marching band, at the time the students report for workouts or practices that occur prior to the actual beginning of classes. Students and their parents shall sign and return to the sponsor or coach a statement that they have read the extracurricular behavior standards and consent to them as a condition of participation in the activity. Organizational standards of behavior of an extracurricular activity are independent of the Student Code of Conduct. Violations of these standards of behavior that are also violations of the Student Code of Conduct may result in independent disciplinary actions. A student may be removed from participation in extracurricular activities or may be excluded from school honors for violation of organizational standards of behavior of an extracurricular activity or for violation of the Student Code of Conduct. LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 20

21 LAKE TRAVIS HIGH SCHOOL Cheerleader Constitution Contract I have read the Cheerleader Constitution and agree to abide by all of the rules, policies, and procedures set forth in the document. I understand the discipline system used and I also understand that the term of service for a Cheerleader is tryout to tryout. Student Name (Print): Student Signature: Date: LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 21

22 Parent Name (Print): Parent Signature: Date: LTHS Cheer Revised 1/15 Page 22