Jr./Sr. High School Student Handbook
2004-05
January 18, 2005
Randolph Jr./Sr. High School Student Handbook
2004-2005
Ted Hillman Steven A. Rinehart
Superintendent Principal
207 North Pierce Street
P.O. Box 755
http://www.randolphpublic.org
MissionStatement
The mission of the Randolph Public School is to be the cornerstone in our community for providing a safe, flexible and stimulating environment for learning with a goal of developing productive and responsible persons.
The purpose of this handbook is to aid the students and parents in the orientation of the operation and expectations of the RandolphSecondary School. Each individual is responsible for knowing the information contained herein. Included are statements of rights and responsibilities of students as well as general information. A student who practices RESPONSIBILITY, SELF-DISCIPLINE, and RESPECT will find success at RandolphSecondary School. The administration reserves the right to make deviations in these policies when it is necessary to best serve the interest of the school, a group of students or an individual student.
Academic Rules & Regulations for Activity Eligibility
These academic rules and regulations are in effect for all students in grades seven through twelve who are enrolled as students in the Randolph Public Schools. The guidelines are as follows:
1. Students will be checked to see if failing every three weeks. The names of any students failing are to be turned into the office no later than noon on Monday. Students who are on the list to lose academic eligibility will be informed as soon as possible. Students losing eligibility will then be checked weekly to see if they are again eligible.
2. To lose academic eligibility a student needs to have an average below 70% in two subjects.
3. Rules effect all events or activities but does not affect practices. When a student loses academic eligibility they may not miss school for any activity, may not suit up for any activity, may not participate in an activity.
4. Areas covered by the policy will include:
1. Plays
2. Speech Contest
3. Athletics/Cheerleading
4. Extra Curricular Music Groups
5. FFA & FHA (Contest, Field Trips, Conventions)
6. Class and Organizational Field Trips
7. Class and Organizational Contest
8. Drill Team
9. O.M.
10. History Day
11. Fan Bus
12. Attendance at home activities (games, dances, class parties, etc.)
13. Checking out of study halls during school
14. Any other similar activity inadvertently left off the list and/or organized after policy implementation that is similar in nature to the above list.
5. Students must also meet all NSAA interscholastic eligibility guidelines or participation in events or activities under the jurisdiction of the NSAA.
Activity Accounts and Minutes
Minutes of Meetings: There shall be accurate minutes kept of all organized meetings. The minutes shall include a record of all motions and important actions of the organizations. Minutes for each meeting must be approved and signed by the sponsor. A book will be provided for this purpose.
Treasurer’s Record: The treasurers of all organizations shall keep an accurate account of all financial transactions. This record shall have the source, date, and amount of all expenditures. These records shall be balanced with the school treasurer’s record and filed at the close of the year.
Money: All money collected by school organizations for any purpose shall be finalized with the issuance of a receipt to the pupil from the organization treasurer accepting fellow students’ payments, and shall be deposited with the school secretary. All payments shall be made by check drawn on the activities fund and signed by the superintendent and principal. No payment will be made in cash from collections that have not been deposited. A receipt must be given for all money received by the school secretary.
Purchases: All purchases by school organizations or sponsors with monies raised by classes or under auspices of school groups, must be made at the local level, unless local vendors do not handle the goods or product, or the price is demonstrably not competitive with non-Randolph vendors.
Charge Accounts: No purchases may be charged to any school activity unless the purchase is approved by the activity sponsor on the proper form. The sponsor is responsible for and must exercise complete control over the money for the organization of which he is a sponsor. He should see that all bills are settled as soon as possible after purchases are made.
Activity Points
A student shall not hold more than eight “point-rated” offices. No student may hold more than three offices in one school year, totaling no more than seven points, nor shall a student be secretary-treasurer of more than one class organization.
A. Five-Point Positions:
President of Student Council
President of Senior Class
President of Junior Class
B. Two-Point Positions:
Student Council;
Vice-president, secretary-treasurer.
President of class other than Jr. or Sr.
President of a club or organization
Secretary-treasurer of any group not mentioned previously.
Announcements
The superintendent or principal will make daily announcements concerning activities. Announcements from other sources pertaining to outside activities will not be made unless approved by the principal or superintendent.
Activity/Athletic Code & Regulations
The Board of Education of the Randolph Public Schools recognizes a certain value in the privilege of participating in extracurricular activities in the overall scope of a student’s education. The participation in these activities is voluntary and considered a privilege granted by the school district. In order to participate in extracurricular activities, the involved students will be subject to, and expected to comply with, certain guidelines as developed by the Nebraska School Activities Association and/or the school district.
The following rules and standards concerning student conduct for all school activities are established to assist the Randolph Public Schools in carrying out the function of the activity. They will govern all students engaged in school activities for all six years of their secondary schooling. If a student is guilty of a violation of these rules, he/she is subject to consequences as prescribed in this policy. This policy affects all non-graded school related activities. The activity code and regulations, even those students who participate only as spectators will govern every student in our school. The application of these guidelines shall begin with the first day of school, or the first day of practice, if such practices start before the first day of school and will continue through the academic year and/or the last activity event of that academic year.
I. Attendance
A. In order to participate in any school activity (music concert, athletic event, plays, practices, meetings, etc), the student must be in attendance for ½ day immediately prior to the event or practice in which the student is participating.
B. If any activity occurs on a weekend, the student must be in attendance on the Friday before the event. If the student did not attend school on Friday, special permission to allow the student to participate is needed from the principal.
C. Attendance at practice is required if the student is in attendance at school, unless excused by the coach or sponsor.
D. Any student who leaves school during the day because of illness is automatically ineligible to participate in any school activity that day or evening.
E. Any exception to the above guidelines will need previous approval from the Principal.
II. One Way Door for Activities
A. The one-way door rule applies to all activities involving Randolph Public Schools. If a student leaves the activity, they will not be allowed to return. Example: A student goes outside during a dance or volleyball game; they are then not allowed back into the activity. Special permission to leave and return may be given by the sponsor, or principal.
III. Travel
A. The district will provide or approve the means of transportation to all school activities. All participants will ride to and from the activity in the school sponsored vehicle unless prior arrangements have been made with the activity sponsor. Students may not be transported by any other means without prior approval of the principal.
B. Parents wishing to have their own child return from an event shall present (in person) the event sponsor with a written request. Any violation of this rule will result in a one-week activity suspension.
IV. Behavioral Conduct
A. The following actions and/or conduct are deemed inappropriate for any student who wishes to represent Randolph Public Schools:
1. Possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages or in the presence of alcoholic beverages.
2. Possession and/or consumption of a controlled substance or in the presence of controlled substance.
3. Possession and/or use of tobacco in any form.
4. Stealing or damaging the property of our school, school employees, another student, or other schools or businesses while being a representative of Randolph Public Schools, or upon criminal conviction of theft.
5. Refusing to abide by a coach’s or sponsor’s request concerning actions, appearance, and/or general conduct as a representative of Randolph Public Schools.
6. Causing or attempting to cause physical injury to another student. Physical injury caused by accident, self-defense, or other action undertaken on a reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect some other person shall not constitute a violation of this subdivision.
7. Engaging in behavior that would bring discredit to the participant and/or the activity members or the district.
8. Engaging in any other conduct which may not be described above but which constitutes a substantial interference with the activities of the school or is a danger to the student.
V Investigative Process/Due Process
A. The student may be found in violation of the aforementioned rules:
1. Upon the receipt of information from a school employee.
2. The student may self-report a violation.
3. Conviction of the student by a court of an offense, which constitutes a violation of this policy, shall be considered as sufficient evidence for recommending an exclusion from participation in school activities in accordance with these rules.
4. Parents may report a violation by their student.
B. The activity director and/or principal must make an investigation. This process will include giving the student involved oral or written notice of the charges and an explanation of the evidence against him or her. The student will be given an opportunity to present his or her version.
C. After investigating, the Principal shall make a determination as to whether this policy has been violated, and if so, whether an exclusion from participation in activities is necessary.
D. The student shall be notified immediately of the action taken. Parents will be notified by mail of the findings.
E. The student or student’s parents will have five (5) calendar days to request a hearing with the superintendent if after receiving a copy of the written notice of the violation and action taken the parent or guardian does not accept the decision of the principal.
1. The student will be provided with an opportunity to testify, question, and present other evidence on his or her behalf at the hearing.
2. The decision will be put in writing, and a copy of this decision will be mailed to the student and his/her parents.
F. If the parent or guardian does not accept the decision made by the superintendent, they may file a written appeal within five (5) calendar days of receipt of the superintendent’s written decision to the Randolph school’s Board of Education.
1. The Board of Education shall review the incident and the disciplinary action imposed by the superintendent. Within ten (10) calendar days from the date that the written appeal is received the Board of Education shall inform the parent or guardian of their decision. If the Board of Education votes to support such student’s exclusion the school days of exclusion previously served prior to receipt of the parent’s written appeal by the superintendent shall be deducted from the 10 school day exclusion period.
VI. Restrictions’/Exclusions
A. Exclusions from activities are to take place in the activity the student is currently engaged in and/or the next activity in which the student will participate. To prevent a student from working off an exclusion in one activity so participation would be available in another, the student under restriction must obtain the permission of the sponsor to enter a new activity.
B. If the participant is in two (2) activities at the time of an infraction, the participant will be excluded from both activities.
C. For the purpose of administration of this policy, records of violations will be kept. It will be considered a second offense if another violation occurs within one year of recording a first violation. After one year from the first violation, a participant’s record will show NO violations.
D. Should the activity restriction not be concluded by the last day of school, it will be carried over to the beginning of the following school year.
E. The restriction period will begin on notification from the principal and will run with consecutive meetings or contests. All suspensions for violations of this policy shall run concurrently.
F. If a violation of IV – A 1,2, & 3 is established:
1. The first violation of this policy will result in a fourteen (14)-calendar day suspension from activities. If a student self-reports the violation, the suspension will be for seven (7) calendar days. To be considered self-reported, the student must report the infraction to the high school principal (or in his absence, the superintendent) before noon of the next school day or within 24 hours if the violation occurs on a weekend or when school is not in session.
2. For the second violation of this policy the student has 3 options. If the violation is unreported, the student will be suspended from activities for 8 weeks. If the student self-reports the violation, the suspension shall be for 4 weeks. A third option is available to the student, but this is a one time only option and only for the second violation. The student may participate in a diversion program and complete an 8-week education/counseling program (at the student’s expense) approved by the administration. Proof of completion of this program must be provided to the administration. Students must attend all education/counseling program or they immediately revert back to one of the other two options.
3. For a third violation of this policy the student shall be suspended from activities for one year. A student who self-reports will have the restriction reduced to 6 months. In addition, in order to be allowed to return to participation the student will be required to complete an education/counseling program at his or her own expense. A student who does not complete the education/counseling program will not be allowed to return to activity participation.
G. Students who are not participating and are found in violation of this policy may be restricted from attendance at activities.
H. A student placed on restriction will be allowed to participate in the following activities for the duration of the restriction period:
1. Attendance at regularly scheduled class periods.
2. Participation on any class trip that is developed and supervised by the classroom teacher and is expected to be attended by all members of the class is considered a part of the learning curriculum for that particular class, and takes place within the confines of one calendar day.
3. Participation in any regularly scheduled practices, as developed and supervised by the sponsor of the activity that the restricted student was participating in at the time of the restriction, or will be able to participate in when the restriction period is over.
4. Attendance at any convocations or assemblies as scheduled by the administration designed for the attendance of all or part of the student body.
VII. Other Guidelines
A. These rules and guidelines are distributed to students and parents as part of the Student Handbook at the beginning of each school year or at the time of enrollment. The student and parents must sign and return the form at the end of this handbook to the school stating that they have received and read the handbook, which includes the activity participation policy. The student will not be able to participate until this requirement is met.
B. Students will be neat, clean and well groomed and will display personal conduct of good sportsmanship in situations where they are representing the school.
C. REQUIREMENTS OF NSAA:
1. Physical examination - satisfactory medical finding must be met (Cost of physical examination for the athletic program will be paid by the student.
2. Parent/Guardian permission
3. Insurance statement – insurance requirements must be fulfilled.
4. Eligibility requirements – scholastic standards of association.
5. In order to represent a high school in interscholastic athletic competition, a student must abide by eligibility rules of the Nebraska School Activities Association.
Attendance Policy
Parents cannot excuse students from school. They can only give the reason for the absence. The authority to determine whether an absence is excused or unexcused rests with school officials.
A. CATEGORIES OF ABSENCE
1. EXCUSED: Illness (3 consecutive days or less parent’s excuse), illness (more than 3 consecutive days with verification from a medical doctor), doctor or dental appointment, special religious observances, demonstration or exhibits at the Nebraska State Fair, family emergencies, court appearances, driver’s license issuance, school activities that the student participates in, bereavement in the immediate family, and college visits when arranged by the guidance counselor.
2. LIMITED EXCUSED: (limited to 5 days per semester): Any absence not listed in No. 1 that is approved by the parents. The parent must inform the school of absence and the exact reason for the absence prior to the absence or the absence will be considered unexcused. Illness in excess of 3 days that is not verified also a doctor excuses considered limited. It is strongly encouraged that all appointments etc. not covered via excused absences be done outside of school hours. However the Randolph Public will excuse other absences at the request of the parent when the following criteria is met:
1. The school is informed of the absences prior to the absence.
2. The school is informed of the reason for the requested absence.
3. The school is informed of the reason the requested absence must be during school hours.
4. The student has completed assignments as requested by staff.
3. UNEXCUSED: Truancy, forging passes or excuses, leaving the school without permission, skipping a class or study hall, limited excuse absence without prior contact by a parent, statement of the incorrect reason for the absence by parent or student.
B. MAKE-UP WORK
1. Limited excused: Students will not be allowed to make-up work for time absent and the student will receive the grade of 0% for each class missed.
2. Unexcused: Same as limited excused with additional appropriate disciplinary action by the principal.
3. Excused or limited excused of less than 5 per semester: The student shall be allowed 2 days for the first day of absence and one additional day for each additional day of absence to make-up work. If the make-up work is not completed in the previously stipulated amount of time, the student shall receive the grade of 0% for all incomplete work. The administration, and only the administration, may grant additional time for a student to complete make-up work. This additional time is to be granted only for good cause and will be given to both the student and any involved instructors in writing.
C. EXCESSIVE ABSENTEEISM
If student exceeds five (5) days absence during any quarter, ten (10) days absence during any semester, or twenty (20) days absence during any school year said student absences will be considered excessive. Absences counted in this policy shall include the following categories: excused, limited excused and unexcused. When a student’s absences become excessive the parent shall be notified of such in writing sent by restricted delivery certified mail with a return receipt. This letter shall notify the parent or guardian that the school is compelling attendance and shall outline the definition of such for the parent. This letter shall also inform the parents or guardian that if the compulsory attendance guidelines are not followed the county attorney shall be notified of the habitual truancy.
D. LEAVING SCHOOL DURING THE SCHOOL DAY
Students may not leave school during the school day without a blue slip from the office. Blue slips will be given to a student only after the parent calls the office and requests the student to be excused. Students will be excused to go downtown or run errands during their study hall only. Teachers may not give students permission to leave during the school day.
E. METHOD OF NOTIFICATION OF ABSENCE
Parents are to call the school prior to 10:00 a.m. the day of the student absence and notify the school of the reason for the student’s absence. If the parents are aware of a future student absence they are to call the school and excuse the student prior to the time of the absence. All parents are requested to give the school an appropriate phone number to call in the event their son/daughter is absent without a phone call from the parents.
Automobiles
Students who have a blue pass to leave the building are to walk unless the errand they are running is in excess of six blocks from the school or they are picking something up for a class that is too large to reasonably carry. It is requested that students who drive to school park their vehicles in designated area.
Before School Locations
Students are not to congregate in the hallways before school. Prior to the 8:00 a.m. bell, students are to be either in the commons area or in a classroom under the supervision of a teacher.
Book Fines
TEXTBOOKS: Teachers are asked to record the condition of books at the time they are checked out. If, at the close of the school year when the books are returned, they show more than average wear, the teacher is instructed to assess a fine in proportion to the excess wear. If the teacher does not collect the fine, the book and report card shall be turned into the superintendent’s office. The student must also pay for any damage or breakage done either intentionally or unintentionally.
LIBRARY BOOKS: A fine of 5 cents per day is charged for overdue library books in the high school library.
Bulletin Boards
Bulletin boards are maintained throughout the building for the posting of general information material and school announcements. All posting placed on the bulletin boards must be approved by the office. Persons or groups posting notices should remove them as soon as the purpose of the notice is served. Make a habit to read the bulletin board notices. They may concern you.
Bullying
Bullying is a form of harassment. It is defined as, “The repeated intimidation of others by the real or threatened infliction of physical, verbal, written, electronically transmitted, or emotional abuses, or through attacks on the property of another. It may include, but is not limited to, actions such as verbal taunts, name-calling, put downs, including ethically based or gender based verbal put downs, extortion of money or possessions and exclusion from peer groups within school or its functions.” Such conduct is disruptive of the educational process and, therefore, bullying is not acceptable behavior, will not be tolerated, is prohibited and subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension, expulsion, and report to law enforcement if circumstances warrant.
Caps and Gowns
It is customary for the seniors to Purchase caps and gowns at commencement. In order to retain uniformity, there are to be no corsages or other decorations, other than ones chosen by the class as a group. Randolph cap and gown colors are red, white, or black. Cap & gown colors other than red, white, and black must be approved by the administration.
Classroom Discipline (PIPSS)
Classroom discipline policy is primarily aimed at maintaining a quality-learning environment. Classroom discipline is conducted by classroom teachers with assistance of the Student Assistance Team (SAT), administrators, guidance counselors, school psychologists, and outside agencies when necessary. To maintain a quality-learning environment, students are expected to perform the following goals:
- Arrive to class prepared
- Use work time appropriately
- Complete assigned tasks on-time
- Demonstrate respect for people and property
- Respond appropriately to staff directives
It is expected that all students at Randolph Public Schools will behave according to the five “Student Performance Goals”. If a student chooses to perform according to these goals, he/she will retain the freedom to interact with teachers and students with minimal supervision. However, if a student chooses not to perform according to these basic expectations, he/she can be assured that teachers, parent(s)/guardian(s), and administration will systematically increase home-school support until student performance is improved or an appropriate educational environment has been identified. Under these conditions, a student will experience a methodical removal of freedoms until satisfactory performance is achieved. Student consequences for unacceptable behavior choices can be summarized in table form and described in narrative format as follows:
|
Level |
Grade 7-12 |
|
I. Classroom (classroom teacher, parent, and student)
|
1- 10 minute session with a teacher during valued time 2- 15 minute session with a teacher during valued time 3- 20 minute session with a teacher during valued time, a student telephone call to a parent, and a mandated parent meeting |
|
II. SAT (classroom teacher, parent, student, Student Assistance Team Coordinator, and administrator when requested) |
1- 30 minute session with a teacher during valued time or consequences stated in IEP/PIP 2- Session with a 1 day ISS or consequences stated in IEP/PIP 3- Session with a 1 day OSS or consequences stated in IEP/PIP, a student telephone call to a parent and a mandated parent meeting |
|
III. MDT/IDT (classroom teacher, parent, student, administration, resource teacher, support staff, and community support staff when needed) |
1- Session with a 2 day ISS or consequences stated in IEP/PIP 2- Session with a 3 day OSS or consequences stated in IEP/PIP 3- Session with a 5 day OSS or consequences stated in IEP/PIP
*Mandated parent meeting with each Session given at this level |
1. Sessions will be conducted within one day of being issued and will be used as a time for the classroom teacher and student to complete a problem solving form. Refusal to complete a problem solving form will result in a one-day in-school suspension.
2. Suspensions will be served the following day of being issued.
3. Students failing to attend a session without making prior arrangements with the classroom teacher will receive a double consequence the next day after school or at a time designated by the teacher. Students failing to attend this second re-scheduled Session will receive a 1 day in-school suspension and will be required to develop a re-entry plan with parents before returning to regular classes.
4. Students receiving three sessions in a particular at a given level will result in a mandated meeting with designated staff. The Performance Improvement Planning (PIP) meeting must to occur within five school days. If a parent/guardian is unable to meet at the scheduled time, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to reschedule the meeting within the five school days. Failure to meet will result in the student being placed in ISS (elementary) until a meeting is conducted or being removed (junior high/high school) from school until a meeting is conducted.
5. Students suspended must complete assigned tasks on time to receive partial or full credit. Failure to complete assigned tasks on time will result in 0% credit.
Class Dismissal
Classes are in session from the ringing of the tardy bell until dismissed by the teacher in charge. The bell at the end of the period is a warning bell and not a dismissal bell.
Class Membership
No student shall be eligible to class membership who does not have sufficient credits at the beginning of the fall term to make it probable that he/she will graduate with that class. At the beginning of the fall term, a student must have 25% of the hours required for graduation to be considered a sophomore, 50% of the hours required for graduation to be considered a junior, and 75% of the hours required for graduation to be considered a senior.
College Visitations
1. The student is encouraged to visit with the guidance counselor at least one week prior to the visit date.
2. Details of the visit are worked out such as time, date, program of study, interests, financial aid, etc.
3. The student will bring a parental permission note from home in order to visit and pick up an admit slip from the school office schoolwork needs to be made up before going on the visit.
4. The guidance counselor will call the college and arrange the visit.
5. The School office will be informed of the date and time of the visit.
6. A record of visitations will be kept in the guidance office.
Commencement
Commencement exercises are held the last weeks of school. The principal will appoint all personnel and duties. The Junior Class is responsible for all decorations, ushering, and other duties as assigned by the class sponsor or principal. Commencement, and all student activities of a non-academic nature, would be open only to students enrolled full time at the time of the event.
Computer Guidelines
1. E-Mail, Internet and General Rules
(a) The e-mail and Internet networks are provided to staff and students to conduct research and for educational communication with others. Access to network services is given to staff and students who have agreed to act in a responsible manner. Parental permission is required for student use. Access to e-mail and the Internet is a privilege, not a right.
(b) Individual users of the District computer networks are responsible for their behavior and communications over those networks. Users will comply with District standards and will honor the agreements they have signed. Beyond clarification of such standards, the District is not responsible for restricting, monitoring, or controlling the communications of individuals utilizing the network.
(c) Network storage areas shall be treated like school lockers. Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and insure that users are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files or any information stored or otherwise retained on District servers or in computers will be private.
(d) Users should not expect, and the District does not warrant, that files stored on District servers will always be private.
(e) The District will not be liable for purchases made by any user over the network. Users shall not make purchases of goods and/or services via the District's network.
2. Policy for Acceptable Use of Computers and Networks
The following policy for acceptable use of computers and networks, including Internet, shall apply to all district administrators, faculty, staff and students. All technology equipment shall be used under the supervision of the site administrator.
(a) Users shall not erase, remake, or make unusable anyone else's computer, information, files, programs or disks. In addition to any other disciplinary action or legal action that may occur, any user violating this rule shall be liable for any and all damages for the replacement of any damage to the computer, information, files, programs or disks.
(b) Users shall not let other persons use their name, log-on, password, or files for any reason (except for authorized staff members.)
(c) Users shall not use or try to discover another user's password.
(d) Users shall not use Randolph Public Schools computers or networks for non-instructional or non-administrative purposes (e.g., games or activities for personal profit).
(e) Users shall not use the computer for unlawful purposes, such as illegal copying or installation of unauthorized software.
(f) Users shall not copy, change, or transfer any software or documentation provided by the Randolph Public Schools District, teachers, or other students without permission from the network administrators.
(g) Users shall not write, produce, generate, copy, propagate, or attempt to introduce any computer code designed to self-replicate, damage, or otherwise hinder the performance of any computer's memory, file system, or software. Such software is often called a bug, virus, worm, Trojan horse, or similar name.
(h) Users shall not use the computer to annoy or harass others with language, images, or threats. Users shall not access or create any obscene or objectionable information, language, or images.
(i) Users shall not tamper with computers, networks, printers, or other associated equipment except as directed by the teacher or network administrator.
(j) Hacking - alternating software or hardware or manipulating or circumventing security systems to gain unauthorized access or direct use of the operating system software.
(k) Harassment/Nuisance - Interference with another user's ability to make effective use of computing privileges.
(l) Mere access to resources not specifically granted to the user, whether damage is done or not, constitutes electronic trespassing, and will not be tolerated. Damages incurred will be considered to constitute electronic vandalism.
3. Etiquette for Use of the Internet
All users of the Randolph Public Schools computers and networks are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. Informal rules of behavior have evolved for the use of and communication with the Internet and other on-line services. Breaches can result in harsh criticism by others on the net or restricted access to some resources on the Internet. These rules of behavior include, but are not limited to, the following:
(a) Be polite. Do not become abusive in your messages to others.
(b) Use appropriate language. Do not swear, use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language.
(c) Do not reveal your personal address or phone numbers, or that of other colleagues.
(d) Note that electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. People who operate the system do have access to mail. Messages relating to and/or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.
(e) All communications and information accessible via the network should be assumed to be private property.
(f) Do not place unlawful information on any network system.
(g) Keep paragraphs and messages short and to the point. Focus on one subject per message.
(h) Include your signature at the bottom of e-mail messages. Your signature footer should include your name, position, affiliation, and Internet address.
(i) Other rules established by the network administrators or teachers from time to time.
4. Penalties for Violation of Rules.
All of the policies and procedures for acceptable use of computers and networks are intended to make the computers and networks more reliable for users. They are also intended to minimize the burden of administrating the network so that more time can be spent enhancing services.
Use of the computer to access telecommunications resources is a privilege and not a right. Violation of the policies and procedures of the Randolph Public Schools concerning the use of computers and networks may result in disciplinary action up to, and including, suspension and/or expulsion of students and suspension, termination, non-renewal, or cancellation of the contract of an administrator, teacher or other school employee.
5. Use of Computer Access to Telecommunications Resources is a Privilege and Not a Right.
Violations of the policies and procedures of the Randolph Public Schools concerning the use of computers and networks will result in disciplinary actions being taken against individual administrators, faculty, staff and/or students who are in violation of said rules. Disciplinary action may include loss of access, in addition to other disciplinary or legal action.
Course Offerings and Course Credit Value at RHS
Courses in Mathematics, Science, Social Science, Foreign Language and English will be awarded 12 credit hours per year (6 credit hours per semester). Band and Chorus will be awarded 5 credit hours per year (2.5 credit hours per semester). All other courses offered at RandolphHigh School will be awarded 10 credit hours per year (5 credit hours per semester). All students must take a minimum of seven courses a semester. A three-hour college course will be awarded one semester of RHS credit. A student may substitute a maximum of two college courses for the required seven high school courses per semester. Graduation from Randolph Public Schools requires 225 credit hours along with required classes for later in this handbook.
|
College Prep Needs |
Vocational and General Needs |
|
10-20 credit hours for computer science |
24 credit hours of science (physical science and biology) |
|
36-48 credit hours of mathematics |
24 credit hours of mathematics |
|
36 credit hours of science |
48 credit hours of English |
|
48 credit hours of English |
24 credit hours of social science |
|
24 credit hours of foreign language |
Electives in vocational areas |
Damage to School Property
Except in cases of unavoidable accidents, pupils are liable and will be required to pay for damage that they may cause to school equipment and property. Refusal to do so may be deemed cause for disciplinary action.
Dances Banquets – Parties
It is to be clearly understood that school dances and banquets are for the students and faculty members of the school. They are not to be considered public dances. All school dances will have at least three sponsors. Parties, picnics, farewells, showers, social hours, etc. effecting students shall not be planned or held by any student organization for students or faculty members without prior approval of the administration and placement on the School master calendar. Typically high school organizations will not use school time for parties and picnics.
Detentions
A detention is a period of time either before or after school, the student is required to attend. Detentions may be given to students for rule infractions, insubordination, refusal to follow a teacher’s directions, or for tardiness. Bus riders will be given the opportunity to serve the detention the day following the infraction. Refusal to stay for detention after notification may be grounds for further discipline.
Dress/Appearance
As a health factor, it is expected that all students will wear shoes. Students are not allowed to wear caps or bandannas in the school building. No profanity or obscenities are allowed on clothing. No clothing will be worn that condones or advertises drugs or alcohol. Administrative prerogative is reserved for judgment in cases of student dress, which seems to be immoral, immodest or in any way distracting to students or teachers, so that the educational process is impaired. It is also asked that student clothing be clean and free from excessive order.
Dropping Classes
Dropping a class must be done before the beginning of the second week of classes each semester. To initiate a drop the student must first pick up a drop/add slip from the guidance office. This slip must be filled out and signed by the parent prior to any further action on the drop. A student is not permitted to drop a class until he/she has obtained the permission of the class teacher, guidance counselor, parent and principal. The counselor will notify the teacher when the student may be dropped from the class roll. The student must attend class until the notice has gone out, even though it is known that he/she will be permitted to drop.
Enrollment Option Policy
The school district participates in the Enrollment Option Program. The Enrollment Option Program is established to enable any student to attend a school in a school district in which the student does not reside subject to certain limitations. The option shall be available only once to each student prior to graduation unless the student relocates in a different resident school district. The program does not apply to any student in the 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grade that resides in a Class I School District that is not part of a Class IV School District.
For purposes of all duties, entitlements and rights established by law, including special education but excepting transportation, the district shall treat option students as resident students.
For a student to participate in the option program, the student’s parents or legal guardian must submit an application to the Board of Education with their resident school district and to the State Department of Education by January 1, for enrollment during the following and subsequent school years. The application must set forth, in detail, the substantial educational opportunity available to the option student and the option school district that is unavailable in their resident school district. If the student is accepted in the option program, the student shall attend the school district until graduation or relocation in a different resident school district unless the student chooses to return to the resident school district: in which case, the student’s parents or legal guardian must submit a cancellation form to the Board of Education, the resident school district and the State Department of Education by January 1, for automatic approval for the following year. No student shall attend school on an option basis for less than one full year unless the student relocates to a different resident school district or completes requirements for graduation prior to the end of their senior year.
Each year the Board of Education by resolution, shall adopt specific standards for acceptance and rejection of applications as provided by law. After applications are submitted by January 1, the Board of Education shall, on or before April 1, notify the parent or legal guardian of the student, the resident school district, and the state Department of Education, in writing as to whether or not the application is accepted or rejected. If an application is rejected, the Board Of Education shall state in the notification the reason for such rejection. The parent or legal guardian has the right to appeal the rejection to the State Department of Education within thirty days of the date of notification of rejection. Upon agreement of the Board of Education of the resident school district and the option school district, the January 1 and April 1 deadlines for application and approval or rejection may be waived or extended. The parent or legal guardian of an option student accepted into the district shall be responsible for required transportation. The Board of Education may, and upon mutual agreement with the parent or legal guardian, make arrangements for providing transportation to the option student
The school district shall accept all credits toward graduation, which were awarded by a resident school district. The school district shall award a diploma to an option student if the student meets graduation requirements. The school district shall make information about the district its schools, programs, policies, and procedures available to all interested parties. The school district reserves the right to contract with other school districts, education, service units, or other state approved entities for the provision of services. (Legal Reference: 79-328 and 79-3401 through 79-3416).
It shall be the policy of this district to approve all applications submitted by residents of this district who apply for option provided they are filed according to law and can be considered by the Board of Education in a timely manner. It shall be the policy of this district to accept enrollment option students from the other districts as provided by law and as long as this district is reimbursed according to law.
Fan Bus
The number of busses sent to away football and basketball games will be determined by the following formula: Fewer than 20 student – No bus; 20-40 students – 1 bus; 41 or more students – 2 buses
Students will be charged a fee for the privilege of riding the fan bus.
Fire Drills
Fire drills are held throughout the year without advanced notice. Students are to pass from their respective rooms, walking rapidly but not running, in single file. Only two single files are to go through a hall, up or down a stairway, or out a door at the same time. The actual routes will be discussed shortly after school starts. As soon as the building is deemed safe, the alarm will discontinue and students may return to their classrooms.
Food & Drink
There is to be no food or drinks in any area of the school building except the commons area under any circumstances. If a class is having an activity that involves food or drink they may move the class to the commons area for that activity. This type of activity requires prior approval of the principal.
Foreign Exchange Students
1. The Randolph Public Schools recognizes the potential value of a Foreign Exchange Program and will accept up to two foreign exchange students under the following conditions. Any student wishing to enroll as a Foreign Exchange Student, must submit, to the principal a written request for enrollment, a personal profile of background and interest, a transcript of all class work and grades for the last completed year of education in their home country.
2. Students will be accepted only after a review of the above-mentioned material by the principal, superintendent, and guidance counselor. Students will be notified as soon as possible concerning acceptance.
3. Any Foreign Exchange Student wishing to be considered for graduation and the receipt of a diploma must request such consideration on the day they enroll in school.
A. At the time, the student will be informed of all requirements that must be met.
B. The student will be asked to supply a full transcript of all past schoolwork from his or her own country.
C. The student will be enrolled in, and must receive a passing grade in whatever classes are necessary to meet full graduation requirements.
D. The student will be notified as soon as possible if graduation cannot or will not be achieved.
4. Only those Foreign Exchange Students who apply for and meet all requirements of graduation will take part in the regular graduation ceremony.
5. The Randolph Public Schools suggest that all Foreign Exchange Students arrive in the community at least 10 days before the start of the school year and enroll in class before school starts.
Fund Drives
MONEY RAISING ACTIVITIES: All activities of this kind must have the approval of the administration and plans for the activity must be submitted for final approval.
General School Conduct
Conduct of students on school grounds or in the school building shall at all times be such as in characteristic of any orderly group of ladies and gentleman. Due to the work involved to maintain the building, we ask every students to please observe common courtesy in keeping shoes clean of mud and dirt. This courtesy will be greatly appreciated by the custodians.
Permission to remain in class is based on good behavior. Attendance ends as soon as the pupil shows unwillingness to observe the regulations of the particular class and shows lack of cooperation. All staff are expected to be alert for any student behavior, which is in violation to the following regulations. Such violations are to be reported to the administration when appropriate. All students are expected to comply with the listed regulations. Students are to refrain from the following:
1. Smoking or possession of tobacco in any form in the building or on school grounds.
2. Fighting on or near school property.
3. Disrespect for any staff member.
4. Dress that is in violation of school dress code.
5. Destruction, defacing, or vandalism of school property.
6. Rowdy behavior or excessive running in the building.
7. Dropping waste paper, candy wrappers etc. in the building.
8. Snowball throwing at any time under any circumstance.
9. Locker misuse.
10. Unauthorized absence from school, class, study hall, or leaving school grounds without permission.
11. Gambling or games involving coins.
12. Direct insubordination concerning penalties by the principal or teacher for minor violations or refusing to report to the principal when asked to do so by a teacher.
13. Unauthorized use or possession of school property, or that of other students or school personnel.
14. Intimidation, harassing or verbal abuse of another student.
15. Use of profanity, explicit sexual language, or other inappropriate language.
16. All students shall conduct themselves in an orderly sportsmanlike fashion, being polite and acting as ladies and gentleman at all times including school-sponsored activities.
A list of major violations for a long-term suspension (more than five days) or expulsion may be given and the procedures to follow are outlined in the Student Discipline Policy section of the Handbook.
Grading System
All grades will be posted in percentage. Class rank shall be figured on a four point system using the following grading scale.
98% - 100 – 4.0
95% - 97 – 3.75
91% - 94 – 3.5
87% - 90 – 3.0
85% - 86 – 2.75
83% - 84 – 2.5
79% - 82 – 2.0
77% - 78 – 1.75
75% - 76 – 1.5
70% - 74 – 1.0