Richland Jr/Sr High School Student Handbook 101 Main Ave Colfax, ND 58018 Phone: 701 372-3713 Fax: 701 372-3718 Website: www.richland.k12.nd.us
Message to Students Welcome to Richland Jr/Sr High School. Our hope is that this handbook will be used by you daily as you plan your educational and social activities. This student handbook provides Richland students with the written policies and regulations under which we will operate during the school year.
Mission Statement Students will be taught the skills and gain the knowledge to experience success, positive self-worth, and to become a responsible citizen in society.
Educational Objectives
Learn to be a good citizen and practice democratic ideas and ideals.
Develop communication, computational, and other skills to each individual’s
ability.
Develop good character, self-respect, and a feeling of self-worth.
Form satisfying and responsible relationships with other people including
those with characteristics different from his/her own.
Gain information needed to make job selections and develop skills to
become productive individuals.
Understand and practice the skills of family and community living.
Learn the techniques of managing money, property, and resources.
Develop a desire for learning now and in the future.
To learn how to appreciate and effectively use leisure time.
Understand and practice good health and safety habits.
Acquire an awareness and appreciation of culture and beauty in the world.
Student Rights All students attending Richland Jr/Sr High School have the right to : • A free and appropriate education as defined by state and federal statutes. • Equal educational opportunity and freedom from discrimination. • Due process including the right to appeal. • Freedom of inquiry and expression. • Data privacy. • Be informed of school rules and regulations.
Student Responsibilities All students at Richland High School are expected to: • Attend school daily, except when excused, and to be on time to all classes and other school-day functions. • Pursue and attempt to complete the course of study prescribed by the state and local school authorities. • Adhere to the highest standards of academic honesty and responsibility. • Make necessary arrangements for making up work when absent from school. • Assist the school staff in maintaining a safe school for all students enrolled. • Be aware of all school rules and regulations and conduct themselves in accordance with them. • Treat all adults with respect and recognize that all adults have the right to implement consequences for infractions of school rules. • Be aware of and comply with both North Dakota High School Activities Association rules and regulations and School Board Policies when participating in extracurricular activities. • Be aware of and comply with state and local laws. • Display proper conduct to and from school, and on trips. • Abstain from gambling, immorality, profanity, using tobacco or intoxicating liquors or drugs on the school grounds and on the way to and from school activities wherever held. • Dress and groom to meet fair standards of safety, health, and common standards of decency. • Avoid inaccuracies in student newspapers or publications and indecent or obscene language, both written and verbal. • Express ideas in a manner that will not demean or slander others. • Protect and take care of the school’s property and the property of others. • Respect and care for fellow students.
Items are arranged in alphabetical order. Absences The 2017-2018 school year is 182 days long. School is in session for 175 days with 5 legal holidays and 2 teacher inservice days. If a student wakes up sick or is unable to attend school in the morning, his/her parent/guardian should call between 7:30 and 9:00 a.m. giving reason for the absence. Once a student has arrived at school for the day, the student should remain in school unless the student has prior permission to depart. If a student arrives at school after period 1 has begun, the student must pick up an admit form in the principal’s office. The form must be shown to teachers to show that the office knows of the absence and to receive make-up work. To be counted present in a class, a student must be in attendance for a minimum of 40 minutes. Absences will be classified as excused, unexcused, or truant.
Acceptable Use All computers at Richland High School are to be used responsibly, efficiently, ethically, and in a legal manner. All students are required to sign an acceptable use policy at the beginning of the school year. Accidents and Insurance The laws of North Dakota do not permit the school to assume responsibility for any injury to a student while engaged in athletics or any other activity in school. Every step will be taken to insure safety and to avoid accidents.
Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs It is against school policy for any student: • To sell, deliver, give, or attempt to sell, deliver, or give to any person any of the substances listed above. • To possess, procure, purchase, or receive, or attempt to possess, procure, purchase, or receive any of the substances listed above. • To be under the influence of the substances listed above (legal intoxication not required). This policy applies to any student who is on school property or who is in attendance at a school sponsored activity.
Announcements School announcements will be made available in each classroom after the 1st hour classes have begun. They will also be posted daily on the school website.
Assemblies Assemblies are a regular scheduled part of the curriculum and as such, are designed to be educational as well as entertaining experiences. They provide one of the few opportunities in school to learn formal audience behavior. Regardless of the type of program, courtesy demands that the student body be respectful and appreciative.
Attendance The School Board recognizes that class attendance and participation are important parts of the educational development of a student. The course in which a student is enrolled must be attended a sufficient number of times to insure class participation. This allows the student to exhibit knowledge of the subject matter to earn credit for the course. Attendance Policy: 1. A student shall be allowed no more than 10 absences per semester. The student beginning on the 11th absence will be required to make up hour per hour missed. The following procedures will be followed when implementing the attendance policy: • After 5 absences the student will be notified by the principal. • After 10 absences the student will be notified by the principal. • After 11 absences the student will be notified by the principal. Absences that do not count toward the 10 days maximum: • school activities • in-school suspension • hospital stay for the student • absences due to a death in the family • college visits (2 allowed for seniors only) • extended sickness (after the 2nd continuous day without a doctor’s note) • The first three days of a family vacation. • other absences as approved by the principal
Backpacks Students are not allowed to bring backpacks to their classrooms due to safety concerns.
Bills Final grades will not be released until all student expenses are paid
Bullying Policy Definition Any physical act or gesture or any verbal, written or electronically communicated expression that: 1. Physically or emotionally harms another student. 2. Damages another student's property. 3. Damages another student's reputation. 4. Places another student in reasonable fear of physical harm or damage to his/her property. 5. Substantially disrupts the instructional program or the orderly operations of the school. 6. Is so severe or persistent that it creates an intimidating or hostile educational environment for the student who is bullied.
This policy is designed to protect students in all of the areas listed below: 1. In the school building 2. On school property 3. In school vehicles 4. At any school sponsored event
Types of Bullying 1. Verbal bullying including derogatory comments and bad names. 2. Physical bullying such as hitting, kicking, shoving, and spitting. 3. Bullying through lies and false rumors. 4. Having money or other things taken through force. 5. Being forced to do things by other students. (Hazing) 6. Racial bullying 7. Sexual bullying 8. Cyber bullying (cell phones or internet) 9. Any other behaviors that are deemed bullying by the principal.
Reporting Procedures Forms are available in the principal's office and on the school website. Reports can be made: 1. By the victim of the bullying 1. By a witness to an act of bullying 2. By a staff member 3. By parents/guardians 4. Anonymously (Anyone that makes a false accusation will be subject to one hour of detention.)
Retaliation Retaliation by the bully against any of the following individuals will result in a one-day suspension from school (level 3 on our discipline policy). 1. The victim of bullying 2. An individual who witnesses an act of bullying 3. An individual who reports and act of bullying 4. An individual who provides information about an act of bullying
Investigating Acts of Bullying ο The high school principal will be responsible for investigating any alleged acts of bullying or retaliation. ο This investigation will be done in a reasonable amount of time based on the allegations being made. ο All documentation created during an investigation will remain in a students file until they graduate or leave the school district. ο If the parties involved are not satisfied with the results of the investigation, they may appeal the decision to the superintendent.
Disciplinary Procedures Violations of this policy will be cumulative during the school year. Parents will be notified at all levels of discipline. The principal reserves the right to begin at any level below based on the severity of the offense. First offense - Conference with student (Parents will be notified.) Second offense- Level 1 of school discipline policy - (_ hour of detention) Third offense- Level 2 of school discipline policy - (1 hour of detention) Fourth offense - Level 3 of school discipline policy - (1 day of in-school suspension) Fifth offense or more - Level 4 of school discipline policy - (2 days of in-school suspension). Retaliation against someone who reports bullying - (1 day of in-school suspension) Law enforcement will be notified if there is reasonable suspicion that a crime has occurred.
Professional Development The Richland School district will provide professional development for the staff regarding the prevention of bullying. This training will be included in the yearly professional development plan for the district's employees. Bullying Prevention Programs The Richland School District will provide bullying prevention programs to all students in grades K-12.
Richland Jr/Sr High School Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation Reporting Form Directions: Fill out this form with all of the information you know about the incident. If you wish to remain anonymous, leave your name off of it (Keep in mind that students who falsely accuse another student of bullying will be subject to disciplinary measures). Give filled out form to principal. Complainant Name ________________________ Victim Name _____________________________ Accused Name ____________________________ Date that bullying occurred _________________ Person reporting incident: (Put an X on the appropriate line) Student being bullied ____ Student witness ___ Parent/Guardian ____ School Staff ____ Where did the bullying happen? _____________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ Were there any other witnesses? _____________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ Describe what happened in detail. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _________ What did you do after being bullied? _____________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge. Signature _________________________________ Date_____________ Action Taken (to be filled out by office):__________________________
Bus Rules • Stay in your seat. • What you bring on the bus you carry off. • Use inside voice only. • Keep feet off seats and out of aisle. • No pop on route buses.
Campus Policy (Open/Closed) Richland Jr/Sr High School operates under a closed campus policy. This means that students may not leave the building during the day unless they have notified the office of the reason for leaving (appointments, illness) The exception to this policy is for those students who have earned senior privileges.
Care of School Property Students are responsible for the care of all books, supplies, and furniture supplied by the school. Students who do damage to school property or equipment will be required to pay for the damage done or replace the item.
Change of Schedule Students will be given 3 school days after the start of each semester to make any schedule changes deemed necessary and approved by the counselor or principal.
Cell Phones Cell phones may not be used in classrooms unless the teacher is having students use them for class activities. Students who are caught using their phones in the classroom will have their phone taken away from them. Teachers will bring them to the office. Parents are required to come to the school to pick up any phones taken away by a staff member.
Computers Students are not allowed to bring their personal computers for use in the school due to the risk of sharing a virus. Students are encouraged to use a jump/flash drive to move school work between home and school.
Counseling Services Counseling services are provided for all students. The school counselor will help plan educational programs and will assist with problems which may or may not be directly related to school. The counselor also administers a testing program to aid students in selecting vocations.
Course Load All students in grades 7-12 are required to be enrolled in a minimum of 6 classes per semester. Students attending the votech center for classes are required to take 5 classes. Students in grades 9-12 should refer to the graduation requirements to make sure you are taking the necessary courses for you to graduate.
Detention • Detention is to be served after school. • Students must report to principal for detention by 3:30. • Bus students may have an overnight delay in order to arrange transportation. Detention must be served the next day. • Parents will be notified when a detention is given. • Failure to report for detention may result in additional detention time or suspension. • Rules for detention room. 1. Be quiet 2. Bring work to do. 3. No sleeping 4. No electronic devices 5. Obey the rules and directions of monitor.
Discipline Policy The stepladder program for discipline is a program of ascending consequences. It it the discipline program used at Richland High School. In order for a student to learn and a teacher to instruct there must be an atmosphere in the school that is conducive to learning. Behavior that interrupts this environment must be dealt with promptly, firmly, and consistently. The step system approach to school discipline is based on the belief that students must be responsible for all of their actions while in attendance at school. When students are referred to the administration for a violation of school rules, the administration bases the resulting consequences on how many times and for what reasons the student has been sent to the office during the current school year. For example, a student that consistently disrupts the learning environment needs to receive a more severe consequence than the first time offender. Infractions Penalties Level 1 1. 3rd tardy 1st offense-1/2 hour det. 2. Not working in class 2nd offense-contact parent 3. Class disruption and (2) 1/2 hour det. 4. Inappropriate physical contact 5. Inappropriate hall behavior 6. Cheating - daily work 7. Bullying Level 2 1. Leaving class without permission 1st offense- 1 hour det. 2. Use of profane language in school 2nd offense - 2 hour det. 3. Not using proper procedure when checking out of school. 4. Third offense of Level 1 5. Minor vandalism of school property 6. Bullying Level 3 1. Fighting 1 day in school suspension 2. Stealing and conference with parents 3. Cheating - Tests, Quizzes, Reports 4. Plagiarism 5. Talking to teacher in disrespectful manner. 6. Possession of tobacco 7. Truancy 8. Openly defying a teacher's authority 9. 3rd offense of level 2 10. Bullying Level 4 1. Being under influence of alcohol or drugs 2 day suspension, 2. Major vandalism of school property notify parents and 3. Profanity directed at any faculty or staff authorities Level 5 1. Physically assaulting a staff member School Board 2. Causing major physical harm to another student suspension or 3. Endangering the life, health or safety of students expulsion 4. Possession of weapon on school grounds
Dress Code The purpose of this policy is to enhance the education of students by establishing expectations of dress and grooming that are related to educational goals and community standards. *Appropriate clothing includes, but is not limited to, the following: 1. Clothing appropriate for the weather. 2. Clothing that does not create a health or safety hazard. 3. Clothing appropriate for the activity (PE or classroom). *Inappropriate clothing includes, but is not limited to the following:
1. Clothing which bears a message which is lewd, vulgar, or obscene. 2. Apparel promoting products or activities that are illegal for minors. 3. Objectionable emblems, signs, words, objects, or pictures on clothing communicating a message that is racist, sexist, or otherwise derogatory to a minority group or which connotes gang membership. *Hats are not allowed to be worn in the building during school hours.
Dual Credit Juniors and Seniors have the opportunity to take courses offered by an approved post secondary institution for both high school credit and post secondary school credit.
Due Process In all cases of student discipline, the student has the right to due process. This generally means that the student has the right to an explanation of the charges against them and a chance to be heard.
Eligibility A student must be registered for 6 credits, or credits as stated in the I.E.P. Students must be passing in all subjects to be eligible to participate in extra-curricular activities. Students taking classes through the Center for Distance Education will become ineligible if they fall more than 7 assignments behind. Assessments will be made after 3 weeks of the 1st quarter. Assessments for quarters 2-4 will be made after 2 weeks. Students are ineligible for a period of one week. Grades will be checked on a weekly basis. Extra-curricular activities include all sports and music activities, all clubs and organizations, and any other area of activity which is not a part of the normal class work.
Extra-Curricular Suspensions (Updated 5-18-16)
Extra-Curricular activities are defined as activities that students may participate in, but are not part of the daily curriculum in their classes. These include, but are not limited to: sports, music, drama, speech, debate, prom, and homecoming. School groups such as FFA, FCCLA, Close-Up, and student council will draft their own guidelines regarding suspensions. Section 1. Offenses Any Richland student will be subjected to an extracurricular suspension for the following: 1.1 The use or possession of tobacco, alcohol, or any controlled substance as defined by North Dakota Law. 1.2 Involvement in an act which, if done by an adult, would be designated a crime under the laws of North Dakota, another state, or the US. A violation of the laws governing the operation of a motor vehicle does not fall under this paragraph. Section 2. Suspensions 2.1 Any student will be suspended for a period of 6 consecutive school weeks from participation in any extra curricular activities in Richland schools for the first offense as described in paragraph 1.1 and 1.2 above. 2.2 Any student will be suspended for a period of 18 consecutive school weeks from participation in any extra curricular activities in Richland schools for the second offense as described in paragraph 1.1 and 1.2 above. 2.3Any student will be suspended for a period of 36 consecutive school weeks from participation in any extra curricular activities in Richland schools for the third offense as described in paragraph 1.1 and 1.2 above. 2.4 Any student who has not completed their suspension during the activity they are currently in will continue their suspension starting with their next school sponsored extra curricular activity. No Credit will be given during the summer months. 2.5 Any student who is not currently participating in a school sponsored extra-curricular activity will begin their suspension the first day of practice of the next activity they are in. This includes violations during the summer months. Section 3. Procedures 3.0 The school administrator (Superintendent or Principal) shall immediately investigate any alleged violation of the alcohol, tobacco and controlled substance rule of the NDHSAA. 3.1 If the administrator finds probable cause to believe that this rule has been violated he shall give the student immediate notice of suspension in writing.
A student must be present in school for a full day on the day of an extra-curricular event in which he/she wishes to participate. For early morning departures, a student must have been in school on the previous day. Exceptions may be granted for emergencies with approval of the activity advisor and principal. A student participating in school sponsored trips or events may be sent home early from the trip or event at his expense for reasons of poor conduct, or possession or use of alcohol, tobacco, or other harmful substances. Additional rules concerning different events and sports may be implemented by a coach or advisor.
Fire and Tornado Drills We will conduct fire and tornado drills periodically throughout the year. The fire alarm signal is a continuous ring of the fire alarm. When the fire alarm goes off: • Leave your seat immediately when the alarm sounds. • Walk to the nearest exit. • Close doors and windows • Remain outside until told it is safe to reenter the building. The tornado alert signal will be given through the PA system. • Walk to your designated safe area. • Remain in a kneeling position, covering the back of your neck until told it is safe.
Food and Drink Students are not allowed to bring any food or drink into any classrooms or the computer lab.
Grading Scale A+ 97-100 A 93-96 A- 90-92 B+ 87-89 B 83-86 B- 80-82 C+ 77-79 C 73-76 C- 70-72 D+ 67-69 D 63-66 D- 60-62 F <60 Graduation Requirements Required Courses Credit 4 english required English I 1 English II 1 English III 1 English IV 1 Physical Science-9th 1 3 science required Biology-10th 1 Science Elective 1 General Math or Algebra 1 3 math required General Math II or Geometry 1 Math Elective 1 World History- 10th 1 3 social studies required US History- 11th 1 Senior Social Studies (POD) 1 3 credits of (foreign language, fine arts, career and tech) Typing I, Computer Application-9th 1/2 Health Education(FCS) -9th 1/2 Ag-9th 1/2 Independent Living-12th 1/2 Electives 1 Physical Education-9th and 10th 1 Speech-9th 1/2 Health-9th 1/2 Total Required Credits 18 Elective Credits 4 Total Credits Required for Graduation 22
Grievance Procedure The Grievance Policy for Richland High School can be found in the School Board Policy book. It is titled board policy AAC. The Board Policy Book can be found on the Richland Public Schools website at www.richland.k12.nd.us
Tim Godfrey Superintendent 504 Coordinator Title IX Coordinator 701-372-3713 101 Main Ave. Colfax, ND 58104 [email protected]
Harmful Articles The possession or use of articles that are illegal or that may cause harm to persons or property is prohibited at school, school sponsored activities, or on school grounds.
Hazing Hazing means committing an act against a student or coercing a student into committing an act that creates a risk or harm to a person in order for the student to be initiated into or affiliated with a student organization or for any other purpose. No student, district employee, volunteer, or contractor shall plan, direct, encourage, aid, or engage in hazing. Students found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary consequences which may include suspension or expulsion.
Homecoming Royalty Only seniors are eligible to be homecoming King or Queen. Foreign exchange students are not eligible. Any students who have engaged in activities or behaviors that do not show a good example are not eligible (these include, but are not limited to: alcohol related offenses, theft, assault, etc.).
Honor Roll At the end of each 9-week period an honor roll is published. The standards for the honor roll are: “A” Honor Roll 3.66 gpa-4.0 gpa “B” Honor Roll 3.0 gpa-3.65gpa
In-School Suspension Rules for in-school suspension room: 1. Students must work on school work. 2. Pleasure reading is not allowed. 3. Students under suspension may not participate in extra-curricular activities that day. 4. Any property broken or defaced while in the in-school suspension room will be repaired and the cost will fall on the student. 5. Students not following the in-school suspension rules will face out-of-school suspension. 6. Students on in-school suspension will be allowed minimal sign-outs. No sign-outs will given during class break or noon break. 7. Students will not be allowed to sleep or sit with their feet on chairs or desks. Students must sit in desk provided. 8. No food, candy, pop, or gum is allowed. 9. Students will eat separately from other students.
Library Rules for the library are as follows: 1. During the class periods, 16 students may use the library at one time for 15 minutes each. (Eight students from each study hall if there’s more than one study hall). 2. Students should always sign into the library and leave the passes on the desk. When students leave the library for any reason they must have a signed pass. 3. A student may use the library for research as long as necessary with a pass from the teacher who gives the research assignment. 4. Borrowing time for most materials is 2 weeks. 5. The library will not open until after Labor Day and will close two weeks before the end of school with all materials due at that time. 6. Books that have been put on reserve may not be checked out by students checking out reference materials. 7. No students will be allowed in the periodical room without authorization from the librarian. 8. Any student who violated library rules or behaves in an unsuitable manner in the library, may lose their privileges.
Lock Down Procedures The purpose of a lock-down is to ensure one means of securing the school in a time of need. Lock down drills will be conducted 2 times per year as required by the state of ND. Lock-down procedures may be used in many situations involving dangerous intruders or other incidents that may result in any type of harm to a person or persons in the school building. The building administrator will issue lock-down procedures by announcing a warning over the PA system or any other designated system. The announcement will be a verbal alert -- CODE RED. Once this alert is given the following steps will be taken: 1. All students, staff, and visitors not in rooms will be directed into a classroom. 2. Classroom teachers will lock door. 3. Classroom teacher will cover windows in the classroom. 4. Move all students away from windows and doors. 5. Allow no one outside of the classroom until the building administrator has given an allclear signal. 6. The office will contact each of the rooms to get a check of all students, teachers, and staff in the building. 7. ITV students go to computer room. 8. Phy Ed students go to locker room. CODE RED = LOCK DOWN ALL CLEAR = UNLOCK DOORS
Lockers Lockers are assigned to all students. Students are expected to use their assigned lockers and not switch without authorization form the office. Students are not allowed to put locks on their hallway lockers. The administration reserves the right to search any locker if they have a reasonable suspicion that something illegal may be inside.
Lost and Found Students should check for lost items in the principal’s office or the custodian’s office. Any stolen items should be reported to the principal’s office.
Make-Up Work Students are allowed 2 days for each day absent to make up daily work. Long term assignments and tests will remain on schedule if the student was in class the day they were announced. Students who leave early for a school sponsored event are required to get their homework before they leave that day.
Medication All medication must be administered through the office. All parents/students are required to fill out a medication permission slip before they will be given over the counter medicines. The school does not provide the medications. Parents must send them to the school. They will be kept in a locked room and dispensed according to directions given.
Music Devices Music devices may be used before and after school and at noon break. Music devices may be used in the classrooms at the discretion of each individual teacher.
Nondiscrimination Clause The Richland School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities.
Passes When a student is absent they must get a make-up/admit slip from the secretary before they are allowed back in class. If a student knows ahead of time they will be absent they should get a make-up/admit slip from the secretary.
Physical Contact No area of the school or school grounds is an appropriate place for intimate physical contact between students. Such physical contact such as embracing, kissing, or fondling is a breach of social propriety and will be deemed a form of sexual harassment. Violators will be dealt with according to the discipline and sexual harassment policies.
Physical Education All students must participate in physical education to receive credit. In view of this, it is strongly urged that the student visit his/her family doctor for a complete physical examination before entering school. If any limitation is to be placed on participation in PE, a written statement should be presented which clearly sets forth the limitations and is signed by the family doctor. The statement will be made a part of the student’s record. Students who are excused on a permanent or semi-permanent basis from PE for medical reasons may use correspondence to gain PE credit.
Plagiarism Plagiarism is not tolerated. You must do your own work and when citing the work of others, give credit where credit is due. Anyone who plagiarizes or cheats will receive a zero on the assignment and will be given one day of In-School-Suspension.
Progress Reports Progress reports for all 7th and 8th grade students will be mailed home at mid-term of the 1srt quarter Parents are encouraged to sign up for Powerschool updates to monitor their child’s progress. Teachers have the flexibility of sending progress reports to other students if they should so desire.
Prohibited Substances Prohibit substances include, but are not limited to: • Alcohol or tobacco products. • Any controlled substance or dangerous drug as defined by NDCC Sections 19-03.1-05 through 19-03.1-13 and 19-03.1-26 (marijuana, narcotics, hallucinogens, stimulants, and depressants). • Any abusable glue, aerosol paint, or other substance used as an inhalant. Disciplinary action may include confiscation of product, detention, parent conference, suspension, and or expulsion. For alcohol and drug violations, referral to the counseling department and legal authorities will be imposed.
Removal From Class If a teacher removes a student from class, the student will report directly to the principal’s office it the teacher has not directed otherwise. Consequences will be determined by the principal.
School Closing Messages Emergency school closing will be announced over the following stations: Radio - KBMW, KFGO, KVOX TV - WDAY, KXJB, KVLY School closing announcements are also available by signing up for the emergency notification system.
School Parties and Dances All school parties and special dances may be held on Friday or Saturday nights. Such parties may continue until 11:00 p.m. Special events, such as Prom or Homecoming may continue until 12:00 a.m.
School Records The school has on file your grades, attendance, standardized test scores, and discipline record that have resulted from your work since you began school. If you have attended several different schools, these records have all followed you to this school and are on file here. You and your parent/guardian may see the contents of these records by making an appointment to do so with the principal or counselor. You may have copies made of anything in the school record, at a cost to you of 20 cents per sheet, but you are not allowed to take the original out of the office. Your records, or any part thereof, cannot be transferred in writing or orally to any other place without the written consent of you and your parent or guardian. This means that your school will not and cannot by law, without first receiving written consent from you and your parent or guardian: • Send a transcript of your school record to a college, vocational school, or university. • Give information from your record to a prospective employer.
Section 504 Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination against persons with a disability in any program receiving federal financial assistance. Section 504 defines a person with a disability as anyone who: has a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities such as caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working. Under Section 504/ADA, the school has the responsibility to identify, evaluate, and if the student is determined to be eligible under Section 504/ADA, to provide access to appropriate educational services.
Security Students are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money, cameras, and other valuables to school, and if they wear glasses, watches, and jewelry, to keep track of them at all times. Students, not the school, are responsible for their personal property and school property assigned to them.
Semester Exams All students must take semester exams when they are given by the instructor. The exception to this policy is seniors who meet the following criteria: • Absent 5 days or less during the semester. • Must be receiving a 90% or greater in the class.
Senior Privileges Senior priviliges are a privilege and not a right. To be eligible for senior privileges a student must be: • Passing in all subjects. • Following the discipline policy adopted by the school. • Getting homework in on time. Senior privileges begin at mid-term of the 1st nine week period. They may be revoked at any time at the discretion of the administration. Seniors are allowed to: • Leave after 6th hour if they have a 7th period study hall. • Arrive in time for 2nd hour if they have a 1st hour study hall. • Buy food from the cafe and convenience store over the noon hour. Seniors must sign out on the sheet located by the principal’s office.
Student Classification Freshman - students with less than 3 credits Sophomore - students with less than 8 credits Junior - students with less than 14 credits Senior - students with 14 or more credits
Suspension (In School) Loss of privilege to attend class and activities. Student reports to the principal’s office and teachers provide class work that needs to be completed. 80% credit is given for work completed during in-school suspension.
Suspension (Out-of-School) Loss of privilege to attend class and activities. Student is not allowed on school property for the duration of the suspension. No credit is given for work missed while on out-ofschool suspension.
Tardy Tardy is defined as arriving for class after the final bell has sounded and before 10 minutes has elapsed. Students are allowed 3 tardies each quarter without penalty. One detention assignment will be given for each tardy beyond 3.
Telephone Students are permitted with permission to use the telephone in the office. Students are permitted to use classroom phones at the discretion of the teacher. Teachers are not to share the code for using classroom phones.
Title IX and 504 Coordinator The title IX and 504 coordinator for Richland High School is Superintendent Tim Godfrey. His contact information is 701 372-3713.
Truancy Truancy is being absent from school or class without the prior knowledge and approval of the school or parent. Examples of Truancy: • Leaving school grounds without prior permission. • Absent from school without parents knowing of the absence. • Absent from class without permission, but did not leave property. • Getting a pass to go somewhere and not showing up or not going directly back to class.
Use of School Building Students may enter the building 30 minutes before classes and may remain for 15 minutes after classes have ended. Students that are in the building beyond these times must be under the supervision of a staff member. Groups, classes, organizations, or individuals who by their negligence, carelessness, or who willfully destroy property on school related events, shall pay for damages and cost of repair.
Vehicles Students may park in those areas that are designated for students. Park in an orderly manner. Drive with care when entering or leaving the school parking lot. Student vehicles are not to be driven during school hours unless given permission from the office.
Visitors Students wishing to bring a guest to school must obtain prior approval from the office. Guests and visitors must register in the office with the principal.
Weapons The Richland 44 school board determines that possession and/or use of a weapon by a student is detrimental to the welfare and safety of the students and school personnel within the district. The possession or use of articles that are illegal or may cause harm to a person or property is prohibited at school, school sponsored activities, or on school grounds. Such weapons include but are not limited to any knife, razor, archery equipment, ice pick, explosive bomb, incendiary device, gun, slingshot, bludgeon, brass knuckles, or artificial knuckles of any kind, or any object that could be used as a weapon. This policy includes hunting weapons which may be stored in your trunk. Violation of this policy could result in suspension or expulsion.
Withdrawals and Transfers Lockers must be emptied and all bills paid before credits are transferred to another school. Permission must be given before the school may send student’s records to another school.