2009 - 2010 Rock Port R-II

JH / HS Student / Parent Handbook

Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year!  We hope that this will be a profitable and rewarding year for you.  Much time has been spent to assure that you have the best educational opportunities that the District can provide.  We would remind you that this is your school and that it is with your cooperation and effort that we can make it a source of individual and community pride.  Remember the degree to which you succeed will be in direct proportion to the degree of your commitment and effort.  We expect to make this the best year that you have spent at Rock Port High School.

Alan Kerr, Superintendent, Jamie Evans, Elementary Principal, Jeff Blackford JH/HS Principal

 

Intent of Handbook

This handbook is intended to be used by students, parents, and staff as a guide to the rules, regulations, and general information about the Rock Port R-II Jr/Sr High School.  Each student and staff member is responsible for becoming familiar with the handbook and knowing the information contained in it.  Parents are encouraged to use this handbook as a resource and to assist their child in following the rules contained in this handbook.

 

Although information found in this handbook is detailed and specific on many topics, the handbook is not intended to be all encompassing so as to cover every situation and circumstance that may arise during any school day, or school year.  The administration reserves the right to make decisions and make rule revisions at any time to implement the educational program and to assure the well being of all students.  The administration will be responsible for interpreting the rules contained in the handbook.  Should a situation or circumstance arise that is not specifically covered in this handbook, the administration will make a decision based upon all applicable school district policies, and state and federal statutes and regulations.

 

Mutual Respect

The Rock Port R-II Jr/Sr High School expects every student and staff member to be treated with respect and dignity.

 

Board of Education Educational Philosophy

As the social order becomes more complex, participation becomes more difficult and the agencies of our educational system which contribute to the social well-being of our youth must endeavor to direct their efforts toward teaching our young people to assume individual responsibilities, respect the rights of others, and develop a sense of loyalty to classmates, home, church, school, community, and nation.

Education, to be important, must bring about desirable developments in the physical, intellectual, aesthetic, and spiritual life of the individual.  We are concerned with the understanding of the whole child so that we may, in guiding him through real-life experiences based on his needs, interests and abilities, help him to adapt himself to his social group through his school life to become a thinking, creative, and active member.

The education of children should be a continuous, year-round community enterprise.

Keeping the teacher and the education of American youth abreast of social change and research is a task which is dependent upon a sound, meaningful philosophy of education.  The educational philosophy, which lies at the foundation of education, has the task of meeting the child’s needs to enable him to live better and adjust to the environment around him.

 

VISION STATEMENT:

To be a source of inspiration and knowledge for all.

 

MISSION STATEMENT:

Through leadership, dedication, innovation, and community partnership, we will provide opportunities for all students to maximize their potential, and become caring, moral, productive, and self-reliant citizens.

 

SCHOOL PLEDGE

For God, country, and school,

I pledge my loyalty, leadership, and cooperation

To Rock Port School

And to the high ideals for which it stands.

 

Under the Blue and White

May we go forth

To lift the standards of youth

Higher every day.

SCHOOL SONG

                On oh Rock Port,

                On oh Rock Port,

                On to victory.

                Proud are we of all the glory,

                Here’s our health to thee

                Rah!  Rah!  Rah!

 

 

                On oh Rock Port,

                On oh Rock Port,

                Dear old white and blue,

                Our hearts are ever thine,

                We’ll all be true.

 

                You may travel,

                Cross the prairie,

                Over hill and dale,

                Searching for a school more loyal,

                Tis of no avail.

 

                For no matter how she calls us,

                Be it work or play,

                We stand with ready hands,

                Her will to obey.  Hey!

 

ACADEMIC LETTER REQUIREMENTS

The Academic Committee established the following criteria for students to be eligible for an academic letter and to attend the Academic Banquet.

1.             A grade point average of 3.67 (A-) or higher.

                                *Accumulated over three semesters for sophomores.

                *Accumulated over five semesters for juniors.

                *Accumulated over seven semesters for seniors.

2.             All students meeting the above mentioned criteria will receive an academic letter. Students with an 4.00 grade point average will receive special recognition.

 

ACCEPTANCE OF CREDITS FROM OTHER SCHOOLS

Before students may formally enroll in Rock Port R-II Schools, they must first furnish the principal an official transcript of credits.  It will be the duty of the principal to evaluate all such credits in terms of the standards required in the school.

 

ADMISSION OF NON-RESIDENT PUPILS

Students living outside the district shall be required to make arrangements with the Superintendent of Schools relative to their attendance in this school.  The admission of such students must be approved by the Board of Education.

The Superintendent of Schools requires that all non-resident pupils provide a transcript of grades earned previously and a character report from the head of the school district from which they come. This shall be turned in to the Superintendent’s office.  The admission of such students must be approved by the Board of Education.

In cases involving students from another school district, the Board shall require payments of the tuition charge then in force.  The Board of Education shall direct the Superintendent to contract with the sending district for all non-resident pupils residing outside the school district.

Any persons of school age who shall have taken temporary residence within the district for the purpose of attending school shall be considered a non-resident.

 

ASSEMBLIES

The planning of school assemblies shall be left in the main to the principal, student council, and faculty members. All assemblies of the student body shall be opened by the Student Body President unless opened by the principal or his representative. Students will sit in their assigned class seating area. Only appropriate behavior will be permitted during any assemblies.  The student body’s general behavior in the assembly hall reflects upon the character of the school.

 

ATTENDANCE POLICY

The Rock Port R-II School Board finds that regular school and class attendance is crucial to satisfactory achievement within the school’s curriculum, and that attendance has an independent academic value which examinations or other evaluations do not fully measure. Attendance also benefits a student academically. Consistent attendance by all students also has a profound positive effect on the district’s resources which in turn affects the quality of instruction and student achievement district wide.

 

Attendance and participation are part of a successful learning experience, so students with more than eight (8) excused absences or any unexcused absences in any class in a semester will be issued an academic penalty in the form of grade reductions as follows:

 

Semester Excused Absences

Semester Grade Reduction

Semester Unexcused Absences

Semester Grade Reduction

9

2%

2

4%

10

4%

3

8%

11

8%

4

16%

12

16%

5

32%

13

32%

6+

50%

14+

50%

 

 

 

This academic penalty represents the participation portion of the student’s grade in the class he/she is absent and is intended as a deterrent to excessive absences. Academic consequences accumulate more quickly for unexcused absences, since they are completely avoidable. Penalties are cumulative so that a student with ten (10) excused absences and two (2) unexcused absence would be penalized eight (8) percent. Unexcused absences will not count in the excused total, so a student with six (6) excused absences and one (2) unexcused absence would only receive a 4% penalty.

 

Any consequence may be waived by the building principal if the absences were caused by a specific event or long-term illness. In cases where the district is aware that a student must be absent for an extended period of time, the district will arrange for the student to receive instruction by other appropriate means.

 

The following steps should be followed when a student is absent.

1. Parents or guardians are to call the school the morning of the absence or prior to the absence. Parents can send a note to school with a related student giving name, date, and days of absence, and reason for absence on the morning of the absence or the school day immediately following the absence.

2. Parents or guardians need to notify the office by 9:00am if they would like the student’s makeup work collected. It can be picked up after 3:00pm that same day.

3. The office will inform the staff if the student’s absence is excused or unexcused.

4. Upon returning to school, students are to report to the office to receive an admit slip and then are to make immediate contact with the teacher to make up work missed due to an absence. If the absence is excused, the student may receive full credit for the assignment.

5. Students must not sign their parent’s name even with parents' permission. This is forgery and will result in discipline administered by the Principal.

 

Any student may reduce accrued absences by attending makeup study.  Make up study consist of  attending three (3) after school detentions scheduled by the building principal during non-instructional hours. The student must notify the building principal that he or she wishes to makeup attendance days, and the building principal will provide the student information on the next available session. Makeup sessions do not match the educational value of actual class attendance, so no student will be allowed to make up more than five (5) absences by attending makeup sessions.

 

The district will contact the Children’s Division of the Department of Social Services or the local prosecutor in cases where the district has a reasonable suspicion that a student’s lack of attendance constitutes educational neglect on the part of the parents or that parents are in violation of the compulsory attendance law. No such action will be taken unless other strategies and interventions have been implemented and proven ineffective.

 

Excused Absences are classified as follows:

  • Personal illness or injury of the student or serious illness, injury, or death of a family member; Any such absence must be reported to the office prior to the absence (if applicable), with a phone call on the morning of the absence, or by note from the parent/guardian on the day of or the next day following the absence.
  • Medical appointments, with written appointment confirmation by medical provider.
  • Religious observances, with written excuse from parent and verified by administration.
  • Court or legal appointments that cannot be scheduled outside attendance hours verified with official paperwork from the courts or appropriate legal representatives.
  • College Visits (2 for Seniors, 1 for Juniors) per semester and prearranged through guidance office.
  • Out of school suspension.
  • Absences approved in advance with documentation requested by the principal.

 

Excused Absences: Students will be given one day to make up work for each day they are absent. Example: If you are excused on Monday, your work is due on Wednesday, unless other arrangements were made with the teacher. When an assignment was given prior to an absence, it is due when the teacher has assigned it on the original due date. Example: If a teacher assigned homework that was due the next day, and the student was absent, it is due upon return. An extra day will not be given. If this procedure is not followed, a zero will be given for all class work due the day of the abasence.

 

Unexcused Absences: An unexcused absence will result in zero credit granted for all daily assignments due or completed during the absence.  Tests that are missed during an unexcused absence may not be made up and counted as a zero.

 

Pre-planned Absences: Out of town trips (family or school) should be approved in advance to eliminate any misunderstandings. A student will have all academic work completed on the second day she/he returns from the absence (unless prior arrangements have been made in advance or by teacher discretion).

 

Out of School Suspension (OSS): If a student is assigned OSS all academic work assigned during this time will be counted as zero and no credit will be given.

 

Truancy: Zero credit will be granted for daily assignments and/or tests for the time of the truancy.

 

School Activity Participation: If a student is absent from school they are not eligible to participate in or attend school activities that day.  A student may miss only 4 periods or have an excused arrangement with the administration in order to be able to participate in an activity.  Only students pre-approved by the principal as official participants may be absent from school to participate in an activity. All students who participate in or attend late activities are expected to be in school on time the next day. 

 

 

BELL SCHEDULE

The following bells will ring throughout the day:

8:05                                        Warning Bell (Students are to pick up items from the office, including admit slips, before this bell rings).

                8:10-9:00                              1st Period

                9:03-9:48                              2nd Period

                9:51-10:36                            3rd Period

                10:39-11:24                         4th Period (Lunch Bells by Floors)

                11:24-11:57                         Lunch Period

                11:57-12:42                         5th Period

                12:45-1:30                            6th Period

                1:33-2:18                              7th Period

                2:21-3:07                              8th Period (JH Activity Period)

                3:07-4:00                              SUCCESS

 

 

 

 

BREAKFAST/LUNCH PROGRAM

Rock Port R-II Schools have both a breakfast and lunch program for students and staff.  Junior High and High School students may purchase breakfast for $1.20 per meal, and $1.60 per lunch meal.  Extra/only milk or Juice is .25 cents.  Students who meet federal guidelines may qualify for free or reduced price breakfasts and lunches.  The federal guidelines may be picked up at the principal’s office.  Reduced price breakfast is .30 cents and reduced price lunch is .40 cents.

 

For payments, please place the money or check in an envelope and have the student’s name and the amount enclosed written on the outside.  Bring the envelope to the High School Principals office and place in drop box.  The number of lunches to be purchased may be varied, but the school requests that a sufficient number of lunches be paid for in advance.

 

Letters will be sent home weekly to students having negative balance in a meal account. Students who owe more than $8.00 in lunch charges will be asked to go to the back of the lunch line until his/her account has a positive balance.  Students with a negative balance will not be allowed to charge an extra milk or meal to their account.  Please read the information below concerning the school lunch program, and understand that we are willing to assist you in seeing that this practice is managed in the most respectful way possible. Students are to clean their area of all napkins, milk cartons, spills, trays, silverware, lunch sacks, etc., prior to leaving their table.  Pushing, shoving, and horseplay in the lunchroom or lunch line will not be tolerated.

No students 7-12 will be permitted to leave the school grounds for the purpose of eating lunch away from the facility. Students will not be allowed to have deliveries made to the school for lunch purposes unless it is class / activity initiated.  

 

·          When a student reaches a balance of less than $ 2.50 in his or her account, the cashier will remind the student to deposit money.

·          When a student reaches $0.00 or below in his or her account, the student will not be permitted to purchase items in addition to the regular breakfast or lunch.

·          When a student reaches a negative balance in his or her account, a pink slip will be sent home notifying parents of the account balance.

 

Parents are welcome to come and eat lunch with their child.  Please contact the office prior to 9:00 a.m. on the day you would like to eat lunch with your child so enough food will be prepared.

 

 

BUILDING REGULATIONS

The following is a list of building regulations for Rock Port R-II School.  Please remember that not all situations may be covered in these regulations.  Any and all situations will be handled on an individual basis by the administration.

1.           For everyone’s safety, running in the hall will not be tolerated.

2.           To provide for smooth flow of traffic, the stairs have been assigned as “up” or “down” stairs during class changes.  The north stairs will be used to ascend in the building and the south stairs are to descend.

3.                 No students are permitted to be in the halls during a class period without a pass from a teacher or the office.

4.           Smoking is not permitted in the school building or on school grounds at any time.  This includes night activities that are held as a school function such as dances, games (home or away games), and parties.

5.           Absolutely no pop or drinks (with the exception of bottled water) can be brought into the building. Beverages must be purchased from the available vending machine. Teacher classroom rules will prevail concerning the above-mentioned items. Administrative rulings may be made to allow this rule to be forgiven for a predetermined length of time for school celebrations (i.e. Homecomings, FCCLA / FFA week, Valentine’s Day, etc.).

6.           Junior and senior high school students are not to be in the elementary area any time without a pass or permission from the office, except when they are directly going to or directly coming from lunch or going to a classroom for purposes of being a teacher’s aide.

 7.            Students are not to be in the building prior to 7:40 a.m.

 8.            Junior high students are not to be in Blue Jay Hall before school or during the noon hour.  High school students are not to be in areas assigned to junior high students before school hours or during the noon hour.

9.           Each student is to keep his/her desk and the floor around it in a neat and orderly condition. Book bags are not allowed in the classroom.

10.          With classes being crowded, we cannot afford to have visitors in classes. Please do not bring guests to school.

11.          Students are expected to respect the rights and feelings of their fellow students.  Hazing,  bullying, and harassment of fellow students will not be tolerated.

12.          Students are expected to be respectful and courteous to all teachers, custodians, cooks, bus drivers, secretaries, and other school personnel.

13.          Records are kept of students sent to the office for disciplinary action.  Parents of students whose visits become too frequent will be notified of those visits with the possibility of suspension if the problem is not corrected.

 

BULLETIN BOARDS

General information and special announcements will be posted on the bulletin boards.  Students are urged to check the bulletin boards regularly.  Information concerning scholarships, jobs, college entrance exams, the daily bulletin, and other valuable information will be found there.

 

BUS RULES AND SAFETY REGULATIONS

The following is a list of bus rules and safety regulations for Rock Port R-II Schools.  Please remember that not all situations may be covered in these regulations.  Any and all situations will be handled on an individual basis by the administration.

1.             The school furnishes transportation for those pupils who live one mile or more from the school building.

2.             The bus driver is in charge of all pupils and the bus.  Pupils must obey the bus driver promptly and cheerfully or forfeit the privilege of riding the bus.

3.             Pupils must be on time.  The bus cannot wait beyond its regular schedule for those pupils who are tardy.

4.             Pupils should never stand in the roadway while waiting for the bus.

5.             Unnecessary conversation on the bus and with the bus driver is prohibited.

6.             Except for ordinary conversation, classroom conduct is to be observed by pupils while riding the bus.  Unnecessary noise and loud talking is prohibited.

7.                   All pupils must remain seated in their regular seat at all times.

8.                   The use of any form of tobacco is not permitted on the bus.

9.                   Foods, gum, candy, or pop on the bus is left to the discretion of the bus driver.

10.          Pupils must not, at any time, extend arms or their head out of the bus window.

11.          Pupils must not throw waste paper or other rubbish on the floor of the bus or out of the bus windows.

12.          Pupils must not try to get on or off the bus, or move about within the bus, while it is in motion.

13.          Pupils must observe directions of the driver when boarding or leaving the bus.

14.          Any damage to the bus should be reported immediately to the bus driver.

15.          Pupils are not permitted to leave the bus until they arrive at their destination, except upon written instructions from the student’s parents or the principal.

16.          All bus routes are carefully laid out and approximate time schedules are established.  Routes are approved by the Board of Education and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.  No deviations are to be made from these routes and schedules.

17.          No one is to touch the emergency door except in case of an emergency.

18.          A pupil receiving a bus violation slip in the morning must have it signed by the principal in order to ride the bus home in the evening.  A pupil receiving a slip in the evening must have it signed by her/his parents before boarding the bus in the morning.  An evening slip must also be turned in to the principal’s office the following day.

19.                The first violation of any of these rules and regulations is only a warning that the infraction has taken place.  The second violation report will bring disciplinary action and possible suspension.  The third violation report will resort in a suspension of bus privileges of one day or more.

20.                Pupils who refuse to cooperate and to observe these rules and regulations will be denied the privilege of riding the bus.  Cooperation is urgently requested so that we may have a safe and satisfactory transportation program.

Cell Phones/Portable Electronic Devices

Students are not permitted to use cell phones/portable electronic devices during class time, passing periods or breaks without the permission and presence of a Rock Port staff member or administrator. If a student receives permission by school staff to use an electronic signaling device, it shall not disrupt the educational program. If disruption occurs, the school staff shall direct the student to turn off the device and/or confiscate it. Students may use electronic devices prior to the first bell of the school day and after the last bell of the school day.  Students will be allowed to use ‘IPODS’ during lunch period, but no cell phones. Students are to make arrangements with their parent(s) or guardian(s) to contact the school office when attempting to reach them during the school day. Rock Port School District will follow MSHSAA standards that state at NO time can cell phones be present in any locker room and can be given to a Rock Port staff member for safekeeping when student activity requires time in a locker room. Any student who chooses to bring an electronic device to school shall do so at his or her own risk. School personnel shall not be responsible for loss or theft of the electronic devices.

The following are inappropriate uses of electronic signaling devices: harassment, threats, intimidation, electronic forgery, cyberbullying/cyberthreats, invasion of personal rights, cheating on tests/exams, or other forms of illegal or unethical behavior during the instructional and non- instructional day. Students are not to use material or text message to invade personal privacy or harass another person, or disrupt the instructional day, or engage in dishonest acts.

EXCEPTION: When electronic devices support the educational goals of the class, teachers have the right to allow electronic devices, with the exception of cell phones, within the classroom only. Cell phones are never appropriate. The electronic devices must be turned off and out of sight before exiting the permitting teacher’s classroom.

If a student is caught using an electronic device improperly the following progressive consequences will apply:

1st Offense: The electronic device will be confiscated, secured in a safe location, and returned at the end of the day.

 

2nd Offense: The electronic device will be will be confiscated, secured in a safe location and a parent/student conference will be held with the principal before the electronic device is returned.

3rd Offense and hereafter – The electronic device will be confiscated and secured in a safe location.  The student will be subject to ISS and lose cell phones/portable electronic device privileges for 30 days. The parent/guardian may pick up the cell phone at the end of the 30 days.

These consequences will apply regardless if the electronic device is theit own or not and further consequences can apply.

 

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Each family must contact the school if they change their residence during the school year.  This applies to both transported and non-transported students.

 

CHAPERONE GUIDELINES FOR FIELD TRIPS

 

  • The field trip supervisor must be a faculty member of the institution taking the trip.
  • All chaperones must be at least 18 years of age and a member of the school faculty/staff or a district registered volunteer.
  • Overnight chaperones must assume a 24-hour day responsibility for students from the time they leave until the time they return.
  • The level of student supervision of students while on a field trip is no less than the level of supervision of students required when students are on campus, participating in class, or participating in other school or school board activities.
  • Chaperones are expected to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct and Discipline, and shall report all suspected violations to the field trip supervisor immediately.
  • Chaperones may not discipline a student, staff member, or another chaperone.
  • Rock Port R-II School District is a smoke and drug-free school. Drinking of alcoholic beverages or drug use by a chaperone at any time during a field trip is prohibited.
  • Chaperones must actively supervise and keep an accurate check on members assigned to them.
  • Overnight chaperones may not retire until all students are in their rooms, all visiting between rooms has stopped, and the chaperones are sure the students are secure.
  • Gender of the group members shall be considered when assigning chaperones and floor assignments.
  • Chaperones will not be permitted to bring siblings of participating students or other persons on a field trip.
  • Chaperones will not be permitted to join a field trip at its destination unless the chaperone application is completed ahead of time.
  • Chaperones must wear appropriate clothing at all times.
  • Medical release waivers for each student shall be carried on all filed trips.  In case of an accident, the medical release waivers shall be presented to the treating physician.  A student’s permission slip shall be attached to the student injury incident report which is required with an accident.
  • Chaperones are required to report any illness of students to the field trip supervisor/sponsor immediately.

 

 

CLASS/ORGANIZATIONAL MEETINGS

Classes or other regular student organizations desiring meetings should plan to talk to their sponsor and /or sponsors one week in advance of the meeting in order for clearance to be received from the principal’s office and the meeting be included in the daily bulletin. 

Normally no class meetings or other meetings will be approved during the last five days of each semester since many tests are normally scheduled during this time.  All meetings will be held during eighth period, unless otherwise approved by the administration. Academic make-up work by a student will take precedence over attending meetings.  A student on the D/F list will need to stay in study hall instead of attending meetings.

 

CODE-A-PHONE (ACTIVITY HOTLINE)

Information concerning activities and other school events will be recorded on the Code-A-Phone, and can be reached at 744-5518.

 

DAILY BULLETINS

Daily bulletins are issued and posted on each floor of our building each morning. Pertinent information will be read in the first hour classes.  Students should listen to the bulletins as it often has information students need. All announcements for the daily bulletin need to be turned in to the office by 2:00 p.m. the day before they are to appear in the bulletin.

 

DIRECTORY INFORMATION

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a federal law, requires that Rock Port, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records.  However, Rock Port may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures.  The primary purpose of directory information is to allow Rock Port Schools to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications.  Examples include:

·         the annual or yearbook

·         honor roll or other recognition lists

·         graduation programs

·         sports activity sheets

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent.  Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks.  In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories – names, addresses, and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.

If you do not want Rock Port to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing within thirty days of enrollment in Rock Port R-II School District.  Rock Port has designated the following information as directory information:

1.             Student’s name, address, telephone listing

2.             Date and place of birth

3.             Pictures

4.             Participation in officially recognized activities

5.             Weight and height of members of athletic teams

6.             Dates of attendance

7.             Honors and awards achieved

8.             Electronic mail address

9.                   Grade level, major field of study

 

 

 

 

DRESS CODE

 

Any apparel worn by students must be neat and in no way distracting or disruptive to the academic process.

Removal of hats, hoods, and caps when entering a building is a sign of good manners and respect.  Students will remove head apparel as they enter our school during the school day.

School policy prohibits the wearing of apparel that is backless, has a low neckline, or exposes the midriff or cleavage. No spaghetti straps, strapless shirts and cutaway tops or sides will be allowed. All undergarments must be covered by both boys and girls.  No distressed or ripped jeans/pants with holes above the knee will be allowed.

Shorts and skirts must not expose any part of your personal anatomy or be too short or too tight.   Both shorts and pants must be worn in a way that the belt line of the apparel is at or above the waistline of the wearer.  Skirts/dresses shall not be revealing or distractive to the school environment.

Other prohibited clothing includes biker shorts, clothing that is revealing, and see-through garments.  Jackets or coats are not to be worn in the classroom without teacher and/or administrative approval.  Students will not wear head apparel in the building during the school day.  In addition, clothing that refers to alcohol, any form of tobacco, has improper designs or language that is vulgar, abusive, distracting, and/or suggestive or has a double meaning is prohibited.  The dress code applies to clothing worn during the school day as well as to school activities. The above descriptions are in no way definitive. The administration and staff have the responsibility and reserve the right to determine apparel that is unacceptable and/or disruptive.

Students will be asked to change unacceptable items, which may mean that the student may have to return home to change the inappropriate clothing.  Students that continually wear unacceptable clothing may receive disciplinary measures.

Continuous violation of the dress code will result in further disciplinary action.

 

DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY

The Board of Education recognizes its share of the responsibility for the health, welfare, and safety of the students who attend Rock Port R-II School District. The use, sale, transfer, possession, or under the influence of intoxicants, alcohol, and/or physical or mind altering chemicals (drugs) are prohibited on or in school property including school parking lots, at school sponsored activities or events, or in any vehicle while such vehicle is being used to transport students for the school district.

While it is not the intention of the Board of Education, faculty or administration to restrict the education of any eligible person in the school district, it is recognized that good school discipline and school citizenship are necessary for the proper learning environment to take place.  It is not fair to those students desiring to make the most of their educational activity opportunities to be exposed to unnecessary distractions as caused by fellow students under the influence of drugs or alcohol or in possession of these substances.

1. For the purpose of this policy a drug shall be defined as any substance capable of altering the body’s chemistry or behavior patterns internally and/or externally for a brief or extended amount of time.  The substance may be taken into the body by inhalation through the respiratory system, absorption through the skin or body openings, ingestion through the digestive system, or injection into any of the body’s fluid systems.

2.  Any student of the Rock Port R-II School District, while in possession of or under the influence of drugs without prior notification of the school nurse or respective school principal or superintendent, shall be in violation of this policy.  Moreover, any student in possession of or under the influence of alcohol is also in violation of this policy.  Any quantity of drugs/paraphernalia in the student’s possession not previously cleared by Section 3 below shall be in violation.

3.             The student body shall be informed that the Board of Education and the school’s staff consider drug and alcohol enforcement to be a continuing duty.  Therefore, all “over-the-counter” drugs will also need to be cleared with the nurse or respective principal or superintendent before being taken.  While this action may seem overly harsh, it is the only way this policy may be fairly enforced to put all students on an equal basis.  Students will need to daily notify one of the above people of their need for medication as long as the medication is taken.

4.             The school administration or teachers shall have the right to search the person, clothing, lockers, books, vehicles, or any other personal belongings of any student under their supervision that they suspect to be in violation of this policy and as often as they deem necessary, whether during school hours, at or away from the school buildings, or at any school event, formal or spontaneous, whether at the school or at some alternate location.

5.             Any student found by the administration and/or staff to be in violation of this policy shall be automatically suspended from all activities for a minimum of forty-five days.  The student shall also receive a five to thirty day unexcused suspension from school and will not be re-admitted without being accompanied by a parent      or guardian at the time of readmittance.  Because this student does not exhibit qualities befitting special honors or privileges, all honors, earned letters, offices, special trips, etc., shall be forfeited by the students for any school activity of record during the suspension.

                A.            The forty-five day period is counting only days school is actually in session or days when a school activity is held.  The forty-five day period may span actual semesters or school calendar years.

                B.            An activity shall be defined as any school event outside of the academic class time necessary for units of credit.  Examples of activities would include athletic events and contests, field trips, club meetings, student government activities, cheerleading activities, and any other qualified by the above definition.

6.             All substances confiscated shall be routinely analyzed by a state approved lab as to their content.  Substances in violation of current state law shall cause the school to notify proper law enforcement authorities and file any appropriate charges deemed necessary.

7.             A second violation of this policy shall result in expulsion from school for one calendar semester with loss of credit units for the semester.  This section shall apply to any calendar semester regardless of what time in the semester the violation occurs (e.g., a violation occurring in the last week of the calendar semester shall carry the same penalty as a violation occurring in the first week of the semester).  A student must have approval before being re-admitted to school classes and events.

8.             A third violation of this policy shall result in permanent expulsion from the Rock Port R-II School District.

 

PHILOSOPHY FOR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITY

The extracurricular activity program is provided to supplement the student's education. It is an important part of total school program and contributes to the scope of the learning experience. A variety of activities are offered to appeal to as many students as possible. Those who choose to participate are provided opportunities to:

1.  Compete and associate with students from other schools.

2.  Develop social skills difficult to duplicate in the classroom.

3.  Gain recognition, satisfaction, and a more positive self-concept.

4.  Develop behaviors that foster good citizenship and sportsmanship.

5.  Learn to contribute as a group member and become part of a team.

The opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities may benefit individuals in many ways other than listed. Emphasis is placed on the word opportunity; Only the student can change this to a reality. The school can make a program available, but the students must provide the desire, enthusiasm, and effort, which make them valuable.

While encouraging participation, students must understand that extracurricular activities are a privilege, not a right; and therefore the school expects that certain standards of conduct and behavior will be observed. Students should realize that they represent themselves, their community, their peers, and the school; that is, a student must meet the expectations of all concerned and has broad obligations to meet as an individual preparing to be an adult. It is expected that students make arrangements to make up work before participating in the activity.

 

ELIGIBILITY FOR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

In addition to MSHSAA requirements, the Rock Port School District requires students to meet the following eligibility standards.

 

1.) Students in grades 7-12 receiving a failing grade at the district’s first scheduled grade check of the year will be placed on probation and parent(s)/guardian(s) will be notified. Probationary students will be allowed to participate in extracurricular activities. Students may be removed from probation when grades meet the standards and necessary steps are completed with the teachers and the principal’s office on a week to week basis (Monday thru Saturday). Students who transfer into the district after the first grade check forfeit probationary status.

 

2.) At any grade check other than the first check a student receiving a Failing grade will be ineligible for any extracurricular activities on a week to week basis (Monday thru Saturday). Students may participate in practice, but not in any scheduled competitions.  Ineligible students will be required to attend the SUCCESS tutoring program.  Students may be eligible when grades meet the standards and necessary steps are completed with the teachers and the principal’s office. The coach may require a greater performance standard than that of eligibility. This policy/regulation affects any student in grades 7-12, involved in an activity other than the regular school day or other than activities that are graded or classroom requirements. The exception would be the Jr/Sr Prom.

 

Grade Checks: Grades will be checked after the second week of the new school year, at the midterm of each quarter, and at the end of each quarter. At the beginning of a new school year all students will be eligible for the first two weeks, provided they meet the eligibility guidelines established by the MSHSAA. 

 

Special education students must be making satisfactory progress in the special education program in order to maintain their activity eligibility.

 

These eligibility guidelines apply for the following junior high (where offered) and high school activities:  Football, Volleyball, Wrestling, G/B Golf, G/B Cross Country, G/B Basketball, G/B Track, Cheerleading, Student Council, National Honor Society, Family Community Career Leaders of America Officers, Future Farmers of America Officers, Quiz Bowl, Forensics, Drama Club, G/B “R” Club, Twirlers, Flag Corp, Dance Team, Royalty Candidates and/or Attendants, and Class Officers.

 

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION

Any public display of affection that offends other students, teachers, support staff, or administration is considered inappropriate. Young adults should control their emotions and learn the proper time and place to show their affection.  Failure to comply with this policy will result in the following: verbal warning to offenders, parents notified of unacceptable behavior, and possible suspension.

 

 

 

GRADING SCALE

The following is the grading scale that will be used in the Rock Port R-II School District.

                                Percent                                   Grade                     Honor Points

 

95-100

A

4

90-94

A-

3.67

87-89

B+

3.33

84-86

B

3

80-83

B-

2.67

77-79

C+

2.33

74-76

C

2

70-73

C-

1.67

67-69

D+

1.33

64-66

D

1

60-63

D-

0.67

Below 60

F

0

 

All grades will be weighted according to difficulty.  The classes are weighted as follows:

 

Incomplete grades – Any student who is assigned an incomplete at the end of a semester will have two weeks from the end of the semester to make up the missing work.

 

Pass/Fail

Body Conditioning, Cadet Teaching

Level 1.0

Agriculture Science I, Agriculture Science II, Agriculture Construction, Agriculture Landscaping, Agriculture Power, Agriculture Structures, Algebra ½ (9), American Government, American History, Architectural Engineering, Band, Building Construction, C.A.D., Child Development, Chorus, Consumer Math I, Consumer Math II, Creative Clothing, Dance, Family Living, Flags, General Art, Housing, Introduction to Business, Introduction to Technology Language Arts I, Language Arts II, Learning Disability/EMH, Mechanical Drafting, Mechanical Engineering, Nutrition & Wellness, Physical Education, Physical Science, SAE, Twirling, Woods I, Woods II, World History, Vocational Technical Classes, which include the following:  Auto Tech, Building Trades, Child Care, Collision Repair, Culinary Arts, Health Services, Mechanical Industrial Tech, Welding & Machine Shop

Level 1.1

Accounting I, Art II, Advanced Biology, Applied Communication, Algebra I, Band 3, Biology, Business Tech I, Desk Top Publishing, High School Health, Integrated Chemistry, Language Arts III, Multi Media I, Personal Finance, Speech I, Video Production

Level 1.2

Accounting II, Agriculture Management, Agriculture Marketing/Sales, Algebra II, Band 4, Business Law, Business Tech I & II, Mass Media I, Multi Media II, Spanish I, Speech II

Level 1.3

Algebra III/ Advanced Chemistry, Anatomy/Physiology, Business Economics, Geometry, Mass Media II, Multi Media  III Spanish II, Themes.

Level 1.4

All college credit courses are 1.4. Dual credit college courses are the following; Business Tech I & II, College Algebra,  Calculus, Environmental Geology, Issues in Environment, Physical Geography, Spanish III,  Spanish IV, Statistics, and Understanding the Earth, Online College Dual Credit Courses are the following: American History to 1865, American History 1865 to the present, Psychology, and Sociology.   Other 1.4 classes are the following: Physics and Research.

 

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

The following are the state and local requirements for graduation from Rock Port R-II High School.  

 

                                                                                 

Language Arts                                                      4 credits                                

Social Science                                                      3 credits                                

Math                                                                      3 credits                                

Science                                                                  3 credits                                

Practical Arts                                                        1 credit                                  

Fine Arts                                                                1 credit                                  

P.E. & Health                                                       1.5 credits                             

Speech I                                                                                .5 credits                               

Personal Finance                                                 .5 credits                               

Electives                                                                8.5 credits

Total                                                                      26 credits                              

 

The selection of elective subjects must have the approval of the principal.  Where any subject has been discontinued before it is completed, no partial credit shall be given.  A fourth year of Language Arts will be waived for any student who is enrolled in the Vo-Tech program at Maryville.  Speech I is a state requirement and does not count towards the four years of Language Arts credit.

 

CLASS RANK

Class rank is figured by averaging grades for all full time students.  Teachers use the school’s grade point system, and assign grades for students in each class they teach.  The students’ grades are added and then divided by the number of classes taken.

 

Grade point average is figured each semester by multiplying the given grade by the weight of the class.  If a student gets an A in a 1.00 point weighted class, he/she will receive 3.67 points. (See weighted classes).  Generally a student will have 7 or 8 classes per semester.

 

Cumulative grade point average is figured from first semester 9th grade through last semester 12th grade.  To be eligible for valedictorian and salutatorian students must be enrolled full time in the last two semesters in high school at Rock Port High School.

 

To receive a high school diploma from Rock Port R-II and to be included in class rank and honor roll, transfer public school students and transfer home-school students must meet the following requirements.  They must become full time students and have an official public school or an official home schooled transcript.  School administration and or their designee will evaluate those transcripts for class placement, class rank, and honor roll.  Transfer students must meet all of Rock Port High School’s graduation requirements.  Exceptions – refer to “Graduation Requirements for Students in Missouri’s Public Schools”, “Variances and Substitutions for the State Minimum Graduation Requirements”, which is a publication of the Elementary and Secondary Department of Education.

 

To become a full time student at Rock Port High School, a student must attend eight periods a day. 

 

Any exceptions to the above criteria will need to be approved by the Board of Education.

 

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING

Guidance services are varied and include the following:

1.             Orientation:  Preparing students to meet the changes in their environment from elementary to junior high school or from junior high school to senior high school.

2.             Information Services:  Collecting, organizing, and distributing vocational and education information. Students interested in a particular career are invited to check with the counselor for information that he/she may have,

3.             Counseling:  A student-counselor relationship is one in which a student has the freedom to express his ideas and feelings.  The student is encouraged to seek information and to examine the alternatives before making decisions.  Counseling seeks to help students assume responsibility for their behavior and for making plans and decisions.  It is one of the major guidance functions.

The counselor is prepared to give vocational information and to assist in long-range planning.  Failures in school may be discussed with the counselor.  The student with a complex personal problem should probably go directly to the counselor.

However, problems often overlap and no hard and fast rule prevails as to whom a student should consult about a question - he should go to the person who he thinks can help him most.  This may be his parents, his classroom teacher, his counselor, peer counselors, or the principal.

Peer counselors are trained and available to help students with their problems.  Students may talk to a peer counselor during school time if schedules permit.  A time and place will be provided by the peer counselors or high school counselor.  The high school counselor has a list of this year’s peer counselors available to the students.

Students wishing to talk with the counselor may set up an appointment with her themselves, or ask the principal to make an appointment for them.

 

HEALTH STANDARDS AND NURSING SERVICES

Communicable Diseases

The prevention and control of communicable diseases in the school requires the combined efforts of local physicians, parents, and the school. If a student is ill or has a fever, he should be kept home, quiet, and in bed.  Illnesses are most contagious in the early stages during the fever. If a student becomes ill at school or has an accident, parents will be notified regarding his physical status after her/his condition has been evaluated.  Parents will also be advised of the student’s need to be home, or the need to be further evaluated by their physician.

Nursing Services

The school health service seeks to assist the physical, emotional, and social health of pupils through such means as health histories, teacher observation, and nurse appraisal.

Screening procedures consist of visual, auditory, measurements of height and weight, blood pressure, dental, and scoliosis.  Screening programs are not diagnostic, but may indicate a health need which should be referred for further evaluation by a doctor in that particular field of medicine.

Administering Medication at School

The student’s authorized prescriber shall provide a written request that the student be given prescription or over-the-counter medication during school hours.  The request shall state the name of the student, name of drug, dosage, frequency of administration, route of administration, and the prescriber’s name.  The diagnosis/indication for use of the medicine shall be provided.  When possible, the prescriber should state potential adverse effects and applicable emergency instructions. 

In lieu of the prescriber’s written request, the District will accept a prescription label properly affixed to the medication in question.  Said label must contain the name of the student, name of the drug, dosage, frequency of administration, route of administration, diagnosis and the prescriber’s name.

A parent/guardian or other responsible party designated by the parent/guardian will deliver all medication to be administered at school to the school nurse or designee.  All medication, prescription or over-the-counter, must be in a pharmacy or manufacturer-labeled container.  The District shall provide secure, locked storage for medication to prevent diversion, misuse, or ingestion by another individual.

Cleanliness

Students are expected to come to school clean and well groomed. When a student has not been responsible for their own cleanliness, then it may be necessary for the administration to inform her/him and their parents of the immediate need to correct the situation.

Immunization Requirements

Students shall not be permitted to attend school unless she/he has been immunized as required under the rules and regulations of the Missouri Department of Health. The following immunizations are required:

Disease                                                  Grades                                                   Doses

DTP/DT/Td                                           K-10                                                       4

11-12                                                     3

Polio                                                       K-12                                                       4

Measles                                                 K-12                                                       2

Mumps                                                  K-6                                                         2

                                                                7-12                                                        1

Rubella                                                  K-6                                                         2

7-12                                                        1

Hepatitis B                                            K-12                                                       3

Varicella                                                K-4                                                         1 or proof of disease (chickenpox)

 

HONOR ROLL

An Honor Roll will be published at the end of each quarter to formally recognize the scholastic achievement of the students.  To qualify for the High Honor Roll, the student must maintain at least an A- average, with no grade lower than a B.  To qualify for the Honor Roll, the student must have at least a B average, with no grade lower than a C.

 

INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

 

The purpose of the Internet in the Rock Port R‑II School District is to support research and education in and among academic institutions in the U.S. by providing access to unique resources. Internet usage must be in support of education and research and consistent with the educational objectives of the Rock Port R‑II School District. Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, threatening, obscene, or pornographic materials.

 

Along with access to computers and people all over the world comes the availability of material that may not be considered of educational value in a school setting. We have taken precautions to restrict access to controversial materials by teaching students responsible use by using software to block student access to inappropriate materials.

 

The use of District technology and electronic resources is a privilege, which may be revoked at any time.  Students are only allowed to conduct electronic network-based activities that are classroom related.  Access to electronic mail (E-mail) is a privilege and designed to assist students in the acquisition of knowledge and in efficiently communicating with others.  The District E-mail system is designed solely for educational purposed. E-mail files are subject to review of District and school personnel. 

 

Students who engage in “hacking” are subject to loss of privileges and District discipline, as well as the enforcement of any District policy, state and/or federal laws that may have been violated.  Hacking may be described as the unauthorized review, duplication, dissemination, removal, damage, or alteration of files, passwords, computer systems or programs, or other property of the District, a business, or any other governmental agency obtained through unauthorized means.

 

To the maximum extent permitted by law, students are not permitted to obtain, download, view or otherwise gain access to “inappropriate matter,” which includes materials that may be deemed inappropriate to minors, unlawful, abusive, obscene, pornographic, descriptive or destructive devices, or otherwise objectionable under current District policy or legal definitions.

 

Vandalism will result in cancellation of computer privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of the Internet or the district's computer equipment. This includes, but is not limited to, uploading or creation of computer viruses.

 

The following activities associated with the district's computer equipment and the Internet are not permitted:

1.                    Using someone else’s Internet access or password or sharing your Internet access or password with anyone.

2.                    Displaying offensive messages or pictures especially those without an educational purpose or opening or sending offensive messages or pictures from school computers.

 

 

3.                    Harassing, insulting, or attacking others via the computer equipment especially using email. 

4.                    Employing the network for non-educational or commercial purposes including printing non-school items or intentionally wasting limited resources. 

 

5.                    Trespassing in others' folders, work, or files ‑ including network tiles or authorized files on individual hard drives.

 

6.                    Visiting chat room or bulletin board sites on the Internet without prior approval of the instructor/administrator.

 

7.                    Damaging, or attempting to damage computers, computer systems/software or computer networks.

8.                    Violating copyright laws.  Loading software on any computer, the network or networked equipment without legal license and permission.

9.                    Bringing diskettes from home to use on the network without approval of the instructor/administration.

 

All terms and conditions as stated in this document are applicable to the students and employees of the Rock Port R‑11 School District. These terms and conditions shall be governed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Missouri and the United States of America. Any student or staff member may apply for Internet usage. To do so you must complete the designated application. Students should return the contract to the school official from whom they received the application. The application will be kept by the network administrator. The student or staff member may keep a copy of the policy for their files.

 

Consequences for Violating the Acceptable Use Policy include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following:

 

1.       Suspension of District Network privileges;

2.       Revocation of Network privileges;

3.       Suspension of Internet access;

4.       Revocation of Internet access;

5.       Suspension of computer access;

6.       Revocation of computer access;

7.       School suspension;

8.       Expulsion.

 

 

 

LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS

* Students who become ill during the school day should report to the office.  The principal or his representative will call parents before any student is allowed to leave. 

* Students whose parents request early dismissal from school should bring a note from home indicating the time of dismissal and the reason for needing to be dismissed early.  Such notes should be turned in to the principal’s office before 8:05.  A special excuse will be issued and the student is to present the special excuse to his teacher.

·         Students are not to leave the school grounds during the school day without prior permission from the principal. All students who leave the building during the school day must have parental permission and need to sign out in the office. Leaving without permission or signing out will be considered truancy.

 

LIBRARY RULES

A set of rules for the library has been established in order to keep the library in good order and to provide each student with good access to books, reference materials, and computers.

The rules are:  Books may be checked out for three weeks.  A fine of 5 cents per day per book will be charged for overdue books.  Reference books may be used in the library only; they may not be checked out.  Magazines and newspapers are available to students to read in the library, or may be taken to 8th hour study halls and returned to the library before the conclusion of the day. Students must have a written pass to be in the library unless accompanied by a faculty member. Computers are to be used for the purpose of completing assignments or doing research work. Students playing computer games will be asked to give up computers and will be sent back to classrooms. The library is to be used for research purposes, whether that is with print materials or computers. Disruptive students will be sent back to classrooms and may lose the privilege of using the library. If a student has an overdue book, she/he loses library privileges until the overdue book is returned and fines paid.

Library hours are from 7:50 to 3:30 Monday-Thursday and 7:50-3:15 on Friday. Students may make special arrangements with library personnel if additional library time is needed.

 

LOCKERS

Lockers have been provided in the halls and the gymnasium dressing rooms.  Students must not abuse their lockers by over-crowding them and they should be kept clean so that paper and other materials cannot be seen when the locker is shut, or so that books do not fall out when the locker door is opened.  If lockers are not kept in order, they may be taken away from the student.

Locks are not required on lockers; however, it may be to the advantage of each student to place a lock on their lockers.  This will help prevent the loss of items.  Locks are available, for a deposit, from the office.  Schools issued locks are the only locks that will be allowed for use on the lockers.  The office requires access to all lockers.  For your own benefit, always lock your locker.  The school will not accept responsibility for stolen items.

 

LOST AND FOUND

A lost and found department is maintained in the principal’s office.  If you have anything of value, turn it in to the office, and likewise, if you should lose something inquire at the office.  All losses should be reported to the principal.  Do not leave money or other valuables in the lockers, lockers rooms, or unattended.  The school will not accept responsibility for lost or stolen items.

 

 

 

NEW STUDENTS

Students transferring into Rock Port will have their grades from their previous school averaged in with their scores while at Rock Port.   Students who have transferred in without having previously been enrolled in school that semester will be given the grades that they earned here at Rock Port.   However, since there are no transfer grades, the individual teachers will decide what work needs to be made up for the student in question to receive full credit.

 

NORTHWEST VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL SCHOOL

At the end of their sophomore year a student in good standing with academics, attendance and behavior can apply to attend the NW Vo-Tech School.  The application process is done by the 7-12 counselor in preparation for a student’s junior year.  Students selected to attend NW Vo-Tech school must arrive at RPHS at 6:30 a.m. to get on a commuter bus from Tarkio that takes the students to Maryville.  The commuter bus then returns students to Highway 59 and Highway 136 intersection where the RPHS bus will transport them back to Rock Port.  Students typically return about 11:45 a.m.   Courses offered include:  Auto Tech, Building Trades, Child Care, Collision Repair, Culinary Arts, Health Services, Mechanical Industrial Tech, and Welding/Machine Shop.  Rock Port students are required to ride the Vo Tech bus unless they present written documentation to the HS Principal to drive to and from the Vo Tech School.  Excellent attendance at Vo Tech is paramount, instruction is mostly hands on and the experience missed when absent is extremely difficult to make up.  Excessive absenteeism could result in a student returning to RPHS for the 8 period day for classes.  Tuition to the Vo Tech School is paid for by the Rock Port Board of Education; so good attendance is necessary to get value for the tuition dollar.   If students do not have Vo-Tech classes on a particular day, they will still be expected to attend their classes at Rock Port High School.

 

 

PERMISSION TO DROP COURSES

Students are to be permitted to drop courses and enroll in other courses no later than the first five days of both the first and second semesters.

Permission to drop a course must be obtained from the principal after consulting with the classroom teacher and the guidance counselor.  The Drop/Add slip must also be signed by a parent or guardian for the class change to take place.

 

RETENTION OF STUDENTS

Junior High Retention

To be retained, the student must have failed two or more core classes.  The individual may be passed conditionally if they fail only two or fewer core classes.  However, failing three or more core classes is an automatic retention.

Failing the course is determined by the following criteria:

1.             Receiving failing grades both semesters.

2.             Receiving a yearly average grade below 60% for any class.

Conditional advancement will be determined by the faculty and administration in conjunction with the parent / guardian.  The conditions will be put in writing and if not fully complied with will result in retention the next school year.

 

 

 

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are handed to the students or mailed home at the end of each nine-week period.  Report cards will not be withheld, however permanent records will not be transferred and graduation program participation may be suspended until all debts, such as lost books, lunch charges, etc. are cleared with the school.

 

SCHOOL CALENDAR

The following is the Rock Port School District calendar for the 2009-2010 school year.

                Aug. 11-13            HS / JH Class Registration

                Aug. 14,17,18     Staff Workshop & Teacher Work Day

                Aug. 19                  First Day of School – 12:00 Dismissal

                Sept. 7                    Labor Day - No School

                Sept. 16                 Staff Development – No School

                Oct. 16                   First Quarter Ends

                Oct. 19                   Second Quarter Begins

                Oct. 21                   12:00 Dismissal – Parent Teacher Conferences 12:15-4:00 p.m.

                Oct. 22                   Parent Teacher Conferences 3:30-7:00 p.m.

                Oct. 23                   No School

Nov. 11                  12:00 Dismissal  Staff Development

                Nov. 25-27            Thanksgiving Vacation - No School

Dec. 18                  Winter Break Starts – 12:00 Dismissal/End of Second Quarter, First Semester

                Dec. 22-Jan. 1      Winter Break – No School

                Jan. 4                     School Resumes – Third Quarter Begins

                Jan 18                    Martin Luther King Day – No School  (first inclement weather make up day)

                Feb. 10                   Dismiss 12:00  – Staff Development

Feb. 15                   President’s Day – No School  (second inclement weather make up day)

Mar. 12                  Third Quarter Ends

                Mar. 15                  Fourth Quarter Begins

                Mar. 19                  12:00 p.m. Dismissal Parent/Teacher Conferences 12:30-4:00 p.m.

                April 2-5                Spring Break – No School

                April 13                  Blue Jay Relays – 12:00 Dismissal

May 18                  Last Student Day 12:00 Dismissal, 4th Quarter Ends

                May 19,29,21      Staff Workdays

                (Jan. 18, Feb. 15, April 2, May 19, 20 will be the order that snow days will be made up)

 

SCHOOL CLOSING PROCEDURES

The decision to close school because of inclement weather is normally reached between 5:30 to 6:00 a.m. after a survey of pertinent conditions has been made.  If the administration or employees designated by them judge school should be closed that day, notices will be given as soon as possible to channel 60 and radio stations KFEQ (680 AM), KMA (960 AM), KSJQ (92.7 FM) and KMBZ (99.3 FM).

If school is dismissed early in the afternoon because of inclement weather, notice will be given to the above stations as soon as the decision has been made to close school.  Administrators will make every effort possible to contact the parents of grade school children that school is dismissing early so that proper supervision of the children will be secured when they reach home.

On days when school is not in session, there will be no activities in the school building.  No scheduled inter-school contests will be held at the school or traveled to at other schools on days when school is not in session because of weather-related problems with the following exception:  If the event is part of a regularly scheduled tournament, consideration will be made to travel to the event by the administration.  No consideration will be made to travel to the event, however, if the area is included under a weather warning by the National Weather Service.  Sessions of tournament being held at our school will also require the approval of the administration during inclement weather before they may be held.

 

SCHOOL PROPERTY

Students that have school property issued to them for their use will be held responsible for such property.  This will include any and all books, materials, athletic uniforms and equipment, etc.  Any such items, if lost, stolen, or damaged in any manner, will be the responsibility of the student who has the items issued to them to see that they are paid for or replaced.  If any student does not wish to accept this responsibility, they should not receive such school property.

Lockers are considered school property and may be searched without the presence of the student.  Reasonable suspicion allows for the search of book bags and students should the need arise.

 

 

SCHOOL PURCHASES

Students and faculty of Rock Port cannot purchase items, on credit, for the school without a signed requisition or purchase order from the office.

 

 

SOCIAL EVENTS

Dances, parties, and other school-sponsored events are primarily for students enrolled in Rock Port R-II School, 7-12, and their dates only.    Exceptions to this must be cleared through the principal’s office prior to the event. 

All dances must be scheduled through the principal. Dances will be held for junior high and high school students.  High school dances will be for 9-12 students and Rock Port Alumni.  Junior High dances will be for 7-8 students.  Junior high students will not attend high school dances.   Prom is for students in the Senior and Junior classes and their dates. No Jr. High students will be allowed to attend prom.

No student after entering the dance may leave the building and return.  Once someone goes outside they may not re-enter the building.  The doors will be open for forty-five minutes after the scheduled start of the dance.  No one will be admitted after the doors close unless special arrangements are made with the principal in advance.

 

STUDENT CONDUCT

The Student Code of Conduct is designed to foster student responsibility, respect for the rights of others, and to insure the orderly operation of the district schools.  No code can be expected to list each and every offense which may result in the use of disciplinary action.  It is the purpose of this Code to list certain offenses, which, if committed by a student, will result in the imposition of a specific penalty.  Students will be assured due process and the right to tell their side of the situation. School officials are required to report certain acts of violence to Atchison County Juvenile Office.  However, in each case of misconduct, the age and past behavior record of the student shall be considered before disciplinary action is taken.  Students who are under suspension are prohibited from attending or participating in any school related function during the span of the suspension.  Typical consequences for violating the Student Conduct Code are after school or before school detentions, In School Suspension, or Out of School Suspension.  Most general problems are handled with detentions, which are typically 45 minutes in length and can be issued by the Principal or a classroom teacher.  More severe items are handled primarily with In School Suspension.  ISS is a consequence given by the Principal; a student is isolated from the other students for the whole school day (either with the Guidance Counselor or in the Principal’s office).  Students are given their classroom work and they may work on it throughout the day on their own.  Students are responsible for turning their work in to their teacher the next day.  Students in ISS are not allowed to participate in or attend school activities the day of the ISS.   Students may participate in practices, where they may face additional consequences for their behavior. Tests can be taken during ISS or may be made up at the discretion of the teacher.  Most severe items may be dealt with through Out of School Suspension.  Students are not allowed to participate in any school activities/practices at home or away during Out of School Suspension.  Students are responsible for contacting the school to request homework and having someone pick it up for them.  Assignments are due the day the student returns to school and tests are made up at the discretion of the teacher.

 

DUE PROCESS

When dealing with discipline issues all students are entitled to due process.  Suspensions longer than ten school days are entitled to formal due process.  Students have the right to know the infraction they are being accused of and they have the right to explain their side of the issue.  Final decisions as to consequences will be left to principal.  Consequences will be fair and consistent throughout the student body.  Formal due process is required for suspension longer than ten days.  Written notification will be made to the student and to their parent/guardian.  If there are witnesses there will be written notice of witnesses to testify against the student and to what they will testify.  The student will have the opportunity to appeal.  The student will have the right to have legal counsel.  Appeals are made to the school superintendent for a final decision.

 

DISCIPLINE POLICY

The discipline code set out in this regulation is intended to be illustrative but not an exclusive listing of acts of misconduct and the consequences for each. Misconduct, which is not specifically listed in this regulation, may be deemed to warrant discipline up to and including expulsion following provision of all due process procedures. In addition, the disciplinary consequence listed for each offense may be increased or decreased by the Administration or the Board of Education due to mitigating or aggravating circumstances.

 

All students attending school in District schools will be expected to accept the obligation and responsibility to attend school on a regular basis and to comply with the District’s discipline code set forth below.  Those students who choose not to fulfill their responsibilities at school will be held accountable for their conduct.  Consequences for individual acts of misconduct are calculated to discipline the student, to deter future misconduct, and to provide a safe and positive environment in which students can maximize their learning potential.  Students who engage in significant acts of misconduct off campus, which materially and adversely impact the education of district students, will be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion.

 

 

 

1.             ALCOHOL--Possession of or presence under the influence of alcohol

               

First Offense:      1-180 days in-school or out-of-school suspension, notification to law enforcement officials and documentation in student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense:          Expulsion, notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in student's discipline record.

 

2.             ARSON -- Intentionally causing or attempting to cause a fire or explosion

                First Offense:      1-180 days in-school or out-of-school suspension, notification to law

enforcement officials and documentation in student's discipline record.

                Subsequent Offense:          Expulsion, notification to law enforcement officials, and

                                                                documentation in student's discipline record

 

3.             ASSAULT- (Refer to Policy and Regulation 2673 - Reporting of Violent Behavior)

Assault of a Student or Staff Member --Use of physical force with the intent to do bodily harm.

 

First Offense:      In-School suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, possible notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in the student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense: 11-180 Days out-of-school suspension or expulsion, possible notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in student's discipline record.

 

                Fighting--Physically striking another in a mutual contact as differentiated from an assault.

 

First Offense:      Principal/Student Conference, in-school suspension, or 1 - 180 days out-of-school

suspension, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense:          In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, and

possible documentation in student's discipline record.

 

 

4.             BULLYING- Intentional intimidation or infliction of physical, emotional, or mental harm (see Policy 2655)

 

First Offense: 1-30 Days in-school or out-of-school suspension

Subsequent Offenses: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion

 

4.                 BUS MISCONDUCT – conduct that interrupts the safe and orderly operation of the school transportation system.

First Offense: Conference with principal and official warning.

Subsequent Offenses: suspension of bus riding privileges, usually 1-2 days. 

 

Excessive dangerous behavior will result in immediate action.

 

5.             CARELESS DRIVING - Driving on school property carelessly or without due caution so as to endanger person or property.

               

First Offense: 3-day suspension, loss of parking privileges for 30 days.

Subsequent Offense: 10-day suspension, loss of parking privileges for one semester.

 

5.                 DEFIANCE OF AUTHORITY-- Refusal to obey directions or defiance of staff authority.   Disrespectful language to a staff member.  Failing to attend teacher imposed detention.

 

First Offense:      Principal/Student conference, in-school suspension, 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

Subsequent Offense:          In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, and

                                                                possible documentation in student's discipline record.

 

               

6.             DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR-- Conduct which has the intentional effect of disturbing education or the safe transportation of a student.               

 

                First Offense:      Principal/Student conference, in-school suspension,    or 1-10 days

out-of-school suspension.

                Subsequent Offense:          In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or

expulsion, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

 

7.             DRUGS/CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

Possession or presence under the influence of a controlled substances or substances represented to be a controlled substance while at school, on the school playground, on the school parking lot, on a school bus or at a school activity, whether on or off of school property.

 

First Offense:      1-180 days out-of-school suspension, notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in student's discipline record.

                Subsequent Offense:          Expulsion, notification to law enforcement officials, and

documentation in student's discipline record.

 

Sale of a controlled substance or substance represented to be a controlled substance while at school or at any of the locations described above.

 

First Offense:      1-180 days out-of-school suspension, expulsion, notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense:          Expulsion, notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in student's discipline record.

 

8.             EXTORTION -- Verbal threats or physical conduct designed to obtain money or anything of value.

 

                First Offense:      Principal/Student conference, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

Subsequent Offense:          In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, and possible   documentation in student's discipline record.

 

9.             FALSE ALARM 

                First Offense: 10 days suspension.

                Subsequent Offense: Expulsion      

 

 

9.             FIREARMS and WEAPONS (Refer to Policy and Regulation 2620-Firearmes and Weapons in School

                Possession of a firearm or weapon

               

                First Offense:      Minimum of one-year suspension, referral to appropriate legal authorities

 

10.          HARASSMENT  -Use of words or actions, verbal written or symbolic meant to harass or injure another person; i.e., threats of violence or defamation of a person's race, religion, gender or ethnic origin.  Constitutionally protected speech will not be punished.  (Refer to Policy and Regulation 2130 - Harassment)

               

First Offense:      Principal/Student conference, in-school suspension,    or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

Subsequent Offense:          In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

 

11.          IMPROPER DISPLAY OF AFFECTION -- Consensual kissing, fondling, or embracing

 

First Offense: Principal/Student conference, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

 

 

 

12.          IMPROPER LANGUAGE

Bomb Threats – Bomb threats or any threats of terrorism, made in nay form (oral, written, or otherwise) toward the students, staff, or school in general

 

 

 

Threatening Language- Use of verbal, physical or written threats to do bodily harm to person or personal property.  

First Offense:      Principal/Student conference, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

 

Subsequent Offense:          In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

 

Use of Obscene or Vulgar Language- Language which depicts sexual acts, human waste, and blasphemous language

 

First Offense:      Principal/Student conference, in-school suspension,    or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense:          In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

 

Disruptive or Demeaning Language or Conduct- Use of hate language to demean other persons due to the race, gender, disability, natural origin, or religious beliefs.  This provision also includes conduct, verbal, written, or symbolic speech that materially and substantially disrupts class, school activities, transportation, or school functions.

 

First Offense:      Principal/Student conference, in-school suspension,    or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense:          In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

 

13.          INAPPROPRIATE SEXUAL CONDUCT- (Refer to Policy and Regulation 2130 - Harassment)

 

                Physical touching of another student in the area of the breast, buttocks, or genitals

 

First Offense:      Principal/Student conference, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense:          In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

 

                Use of sexually intimidating language, objects, or pictures.

               

First Offense:      In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or                expulsion, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense:          11-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion, and documentation in student's discipline record.

 

Indecent Exposure- Includes display of breast, buttocks and genitals in a public location

 

First Offense:      In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense:          11-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion, and documentation in student's discipline record.

 

 

 

14.          THEFT -- Theft, attempted theft or willful possession of stolen property.

 

First Offense:      In-school suspension or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, restitution, possible notification to law enforcement officials, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense:          11-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion, notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in student's discipline record.

 

14.          MISBEHAVIOR AT EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES --.

 

First Offense: Two-week suspension from attending or participating in any extra-curricular activities          

Subsequent Offense: Suspension from all extra-curricular activities for the year 

                      

Students who are ejected from an event as a spectator will be subject to further discipline, up to and including suspension.

                                     

15.          TOBACCO- Possession or use of tobacco or tobacco products on school property or at school functions.

                 

                First Offense: 1 to 3 day suspension

                Subsequent Offense: 5-Day In-school suspension or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

                               

16.          TRUANCY - Absence from school without authorization (See also Policy and Regulation 2340 - Truancy and Educational Neglect.)

 

First Offense:      Principal/Student conference and/or 1-3 days in-school suspension.

                Subsequent Offense: 3-10 days in-school suspension.

 

17.          VANDALISM  - Intentional damage or attempt to damage property belonging to the staff, students, or District.

               

First Offense:      In-school suspension, restitution, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, possible notification to law enforcement officials, and possible documentation in student's discipline record.

Subsequent Offense:          11-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion, notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in student's discipline record.

 

VI.          After-School Detention

                Teacher may assign students to an after school detention when the students school behavior warrants.  This detention may be served on the day it is issued but no later than the next day.  It is the student’s responsibility to notify his/her parents concerning any transportation or after school plans.

                A detention study hall will be held each Wednesday from 3:15 to 4:00 for any students in violation of the tardy guidelines.  Students will bring homework to work on or will have work provided for them. Students receiving detention will be notified by Tuesday noon of the current week.  Parent will also be notified either by telephone or letter.

                Students not staying for detention unless excused by the principal will have an additional detention. If detention is missed twice, it will result in a 1-day suspension.

 

VII.         Law Enforcement Authorities will be Notified When Warranted-contact will be made by the building principal in writing to appropriate authorities.  If a juvenile is involved the matter will be forwarded to the Atchison County juvenile officer

 

VIII.       Discipline Records

                All students will begin each year with a clean record except for the following:

A.            An in or out of school suspension which cannot be served completely due to the dismissal of school for the summer may be carried over into the new school year.

B.            Students do not begin each year with a clean record for failure to comply with the prohibition against all alcoholic beverages, unauthorized drugs, and narcotics.

 

STUDENT PARKING LOT

The student parking lot is provided as a convenience item for students that need to drive to school.  Vehicles are to be parked in a north/south direction only.   Vehicles are not to be parked on the street where the buses unload at any time during the school day.  Vehicles parked in an orderly manner allow more room for vehicles and makes it easier for individuals to leave early when necessary.  Those individuals that do not park properly in the parking lot will have their parking privileges on school property removed.

There are many young children that walk to and from school each day.  This requires that drivers exercise utmost caution when driving to and from school each day.  Those individuals that do not exercise this caution will be turned in to the authorities.  When driving on or off school property extreme caution is also a necessity and those that cannot practice this caution may be prohibited from driving on any school property.

Again these items are provided by the school and your parents as a convenience for you.  It is suggested that students who do not wish to accept these responsibilities walk or ride to school.  Do not cause others to suffer due to your lack of proper judgment or lack of acceptance of responsibility.

 

STUDY HALL RULES

The following are rules established for study halls.  Individual teachers may have additional rules for the study hall that they supervise.

1.             Everyone leaving must have a pass and sign out on the sign-out sheet.  Each pass must show the teacher’s name, the student’s name, destination, and time that the student left the room.  Traffic in and out of study hall is to be held to a minimum.

2.             No more than one student may be gone at a time for a restroom pass.

3.             Students should have a pass to go to the office.

4.             Students should be quiet.  They should have work to do.  If they don’t have work to do, it is important that they not be allowed to bother students who do.

5.             Students who don’t return on time or who can’t abide by study hall rules should be restricted to study hall.

6.             Students that are on the D/F list at grade check will need to stay in their study hall and work on the subject or subjects that are on the D/F list.  The study hall teacher will supervise and make sure students are working on the subjects they are having trouble with

 

SUCCESS PROGRAM

The SUCCESS Program is designed to help students achieve academically.  Students are identified for the SUCCESS Program at each grade check.  When students have D’s and F’s and are struggling to pass courses, they are given a weekly schedule for SUCCESS attendance.  This usually includes twice weekly attendance in the Program, if a student raises their grades to passing then they are released from the Program and do not need to attend.  SUCCESS is held Monday through Thursday, from 3:06-4:00 p.m.  A variety of teachers/aides are used as tutors in the Program depending on the needs of students.  Transportation home from the SUCCESS Program is provided if a student needs a ride.   A parent or guardian can choose for their student to not attend the Program if they come to the 7-12 Principal’s office and sign a release.  Consequences are levied for students that choose to miss their assigned tutorial time.

 

TARDINESS

Students are expected to get to school on time and to class before the bell rings. A student who does not bring required materials to class may receive a blue tardy (unexcused).  Any student late to school or class must obtain a tardy slip from the office.  Either an excused or unexcused slip will be issued.  The only excuse for being late is if a faculty member is responsible for making you late to class.  There are three minutes between classes.  This is sufficient time to travel from one class to another.  There is no need to go to lockers or the restroom every hour.  Plan your time wisely to avoid tardies. 

 

The following are the disciplinary actions taken for excessive tardies:

First Offense:                        If the student has been late for school or to any class three times, it will result in a 30 minute after school detention arranged with the teacher for that period.

Second Offense:                  If the student has been late for school or to any class an additional three times (six times total), it will result in a One hour after school detention arranged with the teacher for that period.

Third Offense:                      If the student has been late for school or to any class an additional three times (nine times total), it will result in a one hour service detention arranged with the building Principal.

 

Continuous violation of the tardy policy will result in further disciplinary actions as deemed appropriate by the building

Principal.

 

TELEPHONE CALLS

In case of emergency, parents may contact their children by calling the principal’s office.  It is requested that these be kept to a minimum, due to the fact that this practice can become a stumbling block in the process of the educational program.  Telephone messages will be given to students after 4th period or during study hall.

Students may be allowed to use the phone in the principal’s office during class changes or from study hall, not from a classroom. 

 

TRANSFER STUDENTS

Students who transfer to Rock Port R-II Schools during or after their sophomore year (10th grade) will be permitted to graduate upon satisfactory completion of a program of studies that would have met the graduation requirements at the school they formerly attended. Such students would have to meet the requirements in Section 170.011, RSMo (See Appendix C & D) of the Graduation Requirements for Students in Missouri Public Schools (January 2007). This publication states that all graduating seniors must have at least 24 credits, including American History and at least 1 semester of American Government. Graduates must also pass the Missouri and United States Constitution tests.

 

 

ACTIVITY PASSES

Activity passes are available in the office for students, parents, and community members to purchase. This pass entitles free admission to all home sporting events. Student passes - $25.00, Adult pass - $40.00.

 

 

 

ACTIVITY GUIDELINES

Rock Port High School offers many different activities and organizations for its students to be involved with, both non-athletically and athletically. As with our classroom performance, we take these activities seriously and continuously strive for excellence.  Because of our students desire to achieve high expectations and maintain high standards, the Blue Jay activities program is very successful.

Rock Port High School offers many co-curricular and extra-curricular activities/organizations.  These include National Honor Society, Peer Counselors, Student Council, Family Community Career Leaders of America, Future Farmers of America, Band (marching band and concert band), Marching Band Auxiliaries (Twirlers and Flag Corp), Drama Club, Forensics, Dance Team, Cheerleading, FBLA, Art Club, and Academic Quiz Bowl.  Our experienced staff leads these organizations in different activities and experiences.  Our students also participate in numerous academic contests (e.g., math, business).

At the beginning of the school year, our local chapter of the National Honor Society invites all juniors and seniors who have achieved an A- GPA to consider membership in NHS. Other criteria for selection are their records of character, leadership, and service. The information provided by each interested student plus Faculty Evaluations are used to determine readiness for NHS. Once selected by final vote of our Faculty Council, all members are to maintain the high standards used for their selection at all times. Should they fail to do so, warnings may be issued which could possibly lead to dismissal. If a student flagrantly breaks a school or civil law, no warning need be issued, but due process will be followed. Juniors not selected have a full year to further improve their service, character, and leadership records so they could be seriously considered for membership at the beginning of their senior year.

Blue Jay athletics has a long and rich tradition that our students work toward maintaining each year.  Varsity athletic offerings for the girls include volleyball, cross country, golf, basketball, and track / field.  Junior Varsity action is available in volleyball and basketball.  There is also a freshman team in volleyball.  For the boys, varsity athletics are in football, cross country, basketball, wrestling, track / field, and golf.  Junior varsity boys’ sports include football, basketball, and wrestling.  Our athletes are committed to excellence and consistently perform at peak levels.

Junior high athletics include volleyball, football, G/B basketball, wrestling, G/B track / field.  Proper fundamentals and opportunities to play are emphasized in our junior high program, which provides rich experiences for the students and greatly enhances their high school careers.

Supplementing the Blue Jay athletic teams are our cheerleading programs, which include varsity cheerleaders for football, basketball, and wrestling, as well as junior varsity cheerleaders for football and basketball.  Junior high football and basketball have cheerleaders.  In addition, those students who letter in athletics can join the boys or girls “R” Club.

Rock Port looks at its activities program as an extension of its curricular offerings.  They allow the students to engage skills such as decision-making and critical thinking learned in the classroom to be applied in the activities arena.  Providing as many activities as is feasible, while maintaining quality is the goal of the Rock Port R-II School District.

 

ACTIVITY TRANSPORTATION

No team or other group of pupils shall leave the school for any interscholastic activity unless accompanied by a coach, sponsor, director, or someone delegated by the principal, who shall remain with the team or group until it returns to the school.  The team or group shall at all times be subject to authority of the person accompanying them.

When the school provides transportation to or from an activity, any student representing Rock Port High School must ride the bus or vehicle provided by the school.  Personal, written contact from the parents to the coach/sponsor in charge must be made for the student ride home with a designated adult.  Student/athletes are not permitted to sign out and ride home or drive with other students or friends.

 

ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS

No pupil shall be allowed to participate in practices or contests connected with interscholastic athletics in the Rock Port R-II School District unless one or both of the pupil’s parents or guardians sign a waiver releasing the Board of Education of all responsibility and absolving it from claims for injuries.

No pupil shall be allowed to participate in practices or contests connected with interscholastic athletics unless the pupil presents a written statement from a physician indicating that the pupil is physically qualified for such participation.   Students must have a MSHSAA activity form fully filled out and signed by their parents/guardians and a doctor to practice.

 

CITIZENSHIP GUIDELINES FOR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION

Any student who represents Rock Port School District in activities must be a credible citizen and judges so by the Rock Port High School administration certifying the list of students for participation in MSHSAA sponsored activities.  Students should remember to conduct themselves in such a manner as to reflect positively upon themselves, their family, their school, and their community.  The student’s conduct shall be satisfactory in accordance with good discipline.  In addition to the possibility of losing eligibility for inappropriate behavior as per MSHSAA guidelines, the student involved in RPHS activities is also subject to the disciplinary consequences listed in the Rock Port Parent/Student Handbook.  Questions regarding citizenship eligibility cases will be handled on an individual basis although system-wide guidelines are used in attempting a uniform handling of these cases.

 

 

 

The standards listed below for an activity student shall be enforced during the school year while the student is listed on the eligibility roster for a sport or on the membership list of an extracurricular group or organization.  The standards shall also be in force at any time during the summer months when the student is representing RPHS as a member of a team or organization of the school district.

 

Once it has been determined that either by admission, relevant evidence, or court conviction a student has used, possessed, or distributed alcohol, drugs, tobacco products or if a student has been convicted/or is under suspicion of committing any other criminal felony offense the following disciplinary actions will occur:

                FIRST OFFENSE – student will be suspended from participation for the next contest if the activity has ten or less contests, the next two contests if the activity has eleven or more contests.  The student will be expected to practice and may attend activities but will not travel with the team.

                SECOND OFFENSE – student will be suspended from participation for three contests if the activity has ten or less contests, six contests if the activity has eleven or more contests.  The student will be expected to practice and may attend activities but will not travel with the team.

                THIRD OFFENSE – student will be suspended from participation for a period of 365 days.

                EXCEPTIONS – There could be exceptions to this policy based on time or administrative ruling.  A student who commits an offense in the fall and only participates in a spring activity would not be held to the consequences listed above, provided they have been to court and restitution has been made.  

 

CONFERENCE AFFILIATION

All teams representing Rock Port High School, except, football and wrestling, participate in the 275 Conference.   Wrestling competes in the Grand River Conference.  Football has an independent status.

 

OUTSTANDING ATHLETE SELECTION PROCEDURE

The following point system has been developed to help in the selection of the Rock Port High School Outstanding Boy and Outstanding Girl Athlete.  The boys and girl with the highest total number of points will be the winner.  If two individuals tie, then both individuals will be awarded the honor.

1.             10 points for going out for a sport and completing that sport unless injured.  Points awarded for only one sport per season.

2.             10 points for lettering in each sport (not a provisional letter).

3.             10 points for being all-conference first team in football, volleyball, or basketball.  In wrestling or track, finishing first in an individual event or being a part of a 1st place relay (.25 of points will count) at the conference wrestling or track meet.

4.             5 points for being second team all-conference or honorable mention in football, volleyball, or basketball. In wrestling or track, a second or third place finish in an individual event or being part of a second or third place relay (.25 of points will count) at the conference wrestling or track meet.

3.                   15 points for being All-District First Team in football, volleyball, or basketball.  In wrestling, finishing first or second in normal weight class at the district meet.  In track, finishing first or second in an individual event or being part of a first or second place relay (.25 of points will count) at the district track meet.  In golf, finishing first or second as an individual at the district meet.  In cross country, finishing first or second as an individual at the district meet.

4.                   10 points for being Second Team or Honorable Mention All-District in football, volleyball, or              basketball. In wrestling, finishing third or fourth in normal weight class at the district meet.  In track, finishing third or fourth in an individual event or being part of a third or fourth place relay (.25 of points will count) at the district track meet.  In golf, finishing third or fourth as an individual at the district meet.  In cross country, finishing third or fourth as an individual at the district meet.

5.                   20 points for being All-State in football, volleyball, or basketball. In wrestling, finishing first, second, or third in normal weight class at the state meet.  In track, finishing first, second, or third in an individual event or being part of a first, second, or third place relay (.25 of points will count) at the state track meet.  In golf, finishing first, second, or third as an individual at the state meet.

6.                   15 points for being Second Team or Honorable Mention All State in football, volleyball, or basketball.  In wrestling, finishing fourth, fifth, or sixth in normal weight class at the state meet.  In track, finishing fourth, fifth, or sixth in an individual event or being part of a fourth, fifth, or sixth relay (.25 of points will count) at the state track meet.  In golf, finishing fourth, fifth, or sixth as an individual at the state meet.  In cross country, finishing fourth, fifth, or sixth as an individual at the state meet.

 

 

 

 

REQUIREMENTS TO LETTER

The following is a list of requirements to qualify for a letter in those activities at Rock Port High School that offer varsity letters.  Factors of earning a letter is as follows:

1.             Behavior patterns and injury are factors considered by the administration and coaches on percentage of points previously earned.

2.             One letter per year will be given by the school.

3.             One emblem will be awarded for each sport.

All Sports

1.             Student must be a member of the team and in good standing at the end of the season.

2.             Good school citizen.

3.             Maintain MSHSAA eligibility rating and local standards as prescribed by the coaches and administration.

4.             Letters, bars, symbols, etc., will not be presented until the appropriate awards ceremony.

Academic Team

30 points needed to letter

7 points-participation in Conference Tournament

5 points-participation in all day competition such as Peru State College

5 points-participation in each tri-meet

5 points-named to All Conference Quiz Bowl team

3 points-actively helping to set up and work whenever Rock Port hosts a competition

3 points-High Honor Roll (2nd and 3rd quarter)

2 points-“B” Honor Roll (2nd and 3rd quarter

2 points-year of successful participation

2 points-working at fundraisers

1-3 points-coaches discretion

 

Football

1.             One-half plus one of scheduled quarters in varsity contests.

2.             In case of injury, if a player has played one-half of the quarters possible previous to the injury, he is entitled to one-half of the remaining quarters.

3.             Seniors without the quarter requirements may letter if the coach feels he has earned it and if he has participated in the sport all fours years in high school.

Volleyball

1.             One-half plus one of scheduled games in varsity contests.

2.             One-half plus one of scheduled games in varsity tournaments.

3.             In case of injury, if a player has played one-half of the games possible previous to the injury, she is entitled to one-half of the remaining games.

 

Girls and Boys Cross Country

1.             Compete in, and finish, six 3.1 mile, or equivalent distance, meet races.

2.             Automatic letter for:

A.            Sub-19:00 minute meet performance for boys and sub-23:00 minute meet performance for girls.

                B.            Qualifying for state level competition.

Girls and Boys Basketball

1.             One-half plus one of scheduled quarters in varsity contests.

2.             In case of injury, if a player has played one-half of the quarters possible previous to the injury, he is entitled to one-half of the remaining quarters.

3.             Junior varsity quarters may be used toward earning a varsity letter.  Junior varsity quarters will be halved when used toward a varsity letter.  The player must also have a varsity uniform.

4.             Seniors without the quarter requirements may letter if the coach feels he has earned it and if he has participated in the sport all fours years in high school.

Girls and Boys Golf

  1. One-half plus one of the scheduled varsity matches/tournaments.
  2. Meet district and MSHSAA good citizenship standards during the entire season. Athlete must be a creditable citizen. Creditable citizens are those students whose conduct - both in school and out of school - will not reflect discredit upon themselves or their school.
  3. Seniors without the match requirements may letter if the coach feels the golfer has earned it and if he/she has participated in the sport all four years.
  4. In case of injury, if a golfer has played one-half of the varsity matches possible previous to the injury, he/she is entitled to one-half of the remaining matches and may letter.

 

Wrestling

To earn a varsity letter, participants must earn one hundred points.  Points may be earned in the following manner:

1.             Five points - match participation and forfeits

2.             Fifteen points - decision

3.             Twenty points - superior decision (8 to 11 points of margin in winning)

4.             Twenty-five points - superior decision (12 or more points margin of victory)

5.             Thirty points - fall

6.             Fifty points - for placing in the top four at an eight or more team tournament

7.             Automatic letter for placing in the top four finishers at the district meet.

All junior varsity participants can also earn letter points to be applied to a varsity letter when they become varsity wrestlers.  The above point system will be used for the junior varsity; only the scale will be halved for all junior varsity participants.  Wrestlers cannot combine points from two junior varsity seasons.  When a junior varsity team member becomes varsity, only the previous year’s points apply toward a varsity letter.

Girls and Boys Track

1.             Fifteen points in dual or triangular meets.

2.             Any fraction of a point in any major meet.

 

Rock Port High School Forensic Team Lettering Requirements

Revised Spring 2009

I.                    Any student (9th, 10th, 11th, 12th grades) may compete on the Rock Port Forensic Team.

II. A student is not required to be in a Speech/Drama class to compete.

III. The team enters an average of 8 to 10 open or invitational tournaments a season.  In addition, the team competes at NFL District and MSHSAA District and State tournaments.  Because of entry limitations for NFL and MSHSAA District/State tournaments, students are not required to compete in these tournaments for lettering.  However, a student’s competition in these tournaments may count toward lettering.

To earn a letter in forensics a student must:

        1.  Compete at half plus one of the tournaments the team enters                                                                                     (ex.         10/2=5+1=6) (ex.    8/2=4+1=5)                                                                                                               

        2. Double enter (compete in two events) at minimum of two (2) tournaments

        3. Attend all team meetings (unless excused by coach in advance)

        4. Participate in at least one fund-raising event per season

IV. The letter shall be chenille NFL patch for the first year with a bar added each year the student letters.

V. Level of Competition / Preparation and Performance

                A. Because of the various levels of competition, a student might have seriously practiced with the coach before the tournament and might do his/her best at the tournament, but might not advance to semi-final or final rounds; this will not negatively affect his/her lettering.

                B. However, if the coach believes that the student is not prepared or is not taking the competition seriously in preliminary or final rounds, the coach reserves the right not to count the entry toward lettering.  This can be based on the observations of the coach both at practice and at the tournament and on the judges’ comments on the tournament ballots and in person to the coach.

                C. If a competition is not accepted toward lettering, a student may appeal the coach’s decision within one week after posting.

                D. No later than one week before each tournament, the coach will post all competitions that count toward lettering.  The students must check the list on their own time.

                E. No later than one week before each tournament, students must sign the list to attend the tournament.  Failure to attend a tournament to which a student has committed will result in that student being required to reimburse the school for his/her tournament fees.  Each incident will be reviewed by the coach to determine if the student will be disqualified for lettering at the end of the season.  The only exception will be any verifiable and documented emergency.  (ex. illness, death in family). 

VI. Since criteria for lettering and National Forensic League membership differ, a student’s lettering will not affect his/her NFL membership and a student’s NFL membership will not affect his/her lettering.

VII. Students must maintain academic eligibility to qualify for a letter in forensics.

VIII. All letters will be awarded in May at the end of the season.

 

Drama

Upon successful completion of the play production, the student must earn a total of 500 points in any combination to earn a letter.  The points are awarded as follows:

1.             Twenty points for each rehearsal attended.

2.             Thirty bonus points for perfect rehearsal attendance.

3.             Forty points for a speaking part of fewer than twenty lines in a play.

4.             Ten points for every ten lines over twenty for any speaking parts in a play.

5.             Forty points for having a non-speaking part or being a member of the stage crew for a play.

6.             Twenty points for participating in a speech or drama contest.

7.             Thirty points for attending a speech or drama camp, seminar, etc.

8.             Twenty points for seeing a live stage play (outside of school), with a limit of five plays.

9.             Five points for each session of work for extra production work (i.e., painting, building, publicity).

Cheerleading

1.                   Active participation in practices and games.

2.                   Meet performance evaluation standards will be outlined at the start of the season.

Wearing of a Letter

A letter will be worn on an official jacket on the left side, or on a coat type sweater on the left side, or in the middle front of a pullover.  Services bars will be worn on the left sleeve for the years lettered.  The numerals for the year of graduation will be worn on the right sleeve.  Only individuals who have earned a letter may wear the letter.

 

SPORTSMANSHIP

In the past, Rock Port High School has had strong athletic teams and we feel it is important to support our teams, win or lose.  We want winning teams, but we also feel that it is just as important for each of the participants to reap the benefits of sports, making wise decisions and building better character.

Students are to be reminded that all guidelines that are in place during the school day are also in effect while at school activities.  We want our students and fans to have fun at athletic contests, but cheers are positive in nature for our team and not derogatory toward the opponent.  Failure to follow school guidelines while at school activities will result in the appropriate disciplinary action.

The spectator should remember that they play an important part in every athletic event.  Many a tightly fought game has been won, or an upset of a favorite caused by the kind of support given by fans.  Support your team, but remember, whether spectator or player - BE A GOOD SPORT!

 

STATE COMPETITION EXPENSES

The Rock Port High School Activities Department is on a limited budget and must conserve its finances.  Therefore, only participants approved in advance by the principal will be allowed to travel and/or stay overnight at state activities.  These participants will have most of their expenses paid, when possible, by the school.

 

PUBLIC NOTICE

 

All responsible public agencies are required to locate, evaluate, and identify children with disabilities who are under the jurisdiction of the agency, regardless of the severity of the disability, including children attending private schools, highly mobile children, such as migrant and homeless children, and children who are suspected of having a disability and in need of special education even though they are advancing from grade to grade.  The Rock Port R-II School District assures that it will provide a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) to all eligible children with disabilities between the ages of 3 and 21 under its jurisdiction.  Disabilities include autism, deaf/blindness, emotional disorders, hearing impairment and deafness, mental retardation, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairment, other health impairments, specific learning disabilities, speech or language impairment, traumatic brain injury, visual impairment/blindness and young child with a developmental delay.

 

The Rock Port R-II School District assures that it will provide information and referral services necessary to assist the State in the implementation of early intervention services for infants and toddlers eligible for the Missouri First Steps program.

 

The Rock Port R-II School District assures that personally identifiable information collected, used, or maintained by the agency for the purposes of identification, evaluation, placement or provision of FAPE of children with disabilities may be inspected and/or reviewed by their parents/guardians.  Parents/guardians may request amendment to the educational record if the parent/guardian believes the record is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the privacy or other rights of their child.  Parents have the right to file complaints with the U.S. Department of Education or the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education concerning alleged failures by the district to meet the requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

 

The Rock Port R-II School District has developed a Local Compliance Plan for the implementation of State Regulations for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).  This plan contains the agency’s policies and procedures regarding storage, disclosure to third parties, retention and destruction of personally identifiable information and the agency’s assurances that services are provided in compliance with the General Education Provision Act (GEPA).  This plan may be reviewed in the Superintendent’s Office during school hours.

 

Local school districts in the State of Missouri are required to conduct an annual census of all children with disabilities or suspected disabilities from birth to age twenty-one (21) that reside in the district.  This census must be compiled by December 1 of each year.  This information is treated as confidential and must include:  name of the child; parent/legal guardian’s name/address; birth date and age of the child; the child’s disability; and the services provided to the child.  If you have a child with a disability or know of a child with a disability who is not attending the public school, please contact Jamie Evans, Special Ed Director at 744-6294.

 

This notice will be provided in native languages as appropriate.

 

Rock Port R-II Schools

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acknowledgment of Receipt/Access of Student Handbook

 

 

By signing this document, you are acknowledging that you have access to or have received the Rock Port R-II School District’s Student Handbook which includes the School Attendance, Drug-Free Schools Policy, Immunization Requirements, and Eligibility Standards for Extra Curricular Activities, Reporting Practices and all other information printed in the Student Handbook.

 

Please note the method by which you have access to or can receive the Student Handbook.

1.  Access by home computer or other computer using the Rock Port R-II website.

2. And/or receive the Student Handbook in person.

 

Acknowledgement

As the parent/guardian of the student listed below and as the student listed below, we hereby confirm that we have access to or have been given a copy of the Rock Port R-II School District’s Student Handbook.

 

We understand the responsibilities expected of parents and students in the Rock Port R-II School District.

 

We understand the policies, procedures, rules, regulations, and practices as stated in this document.

 

We understand that all students will be held accountable for their behavior and will be subject to the disciplinary consequences.

 

 

 

Print name of student:________________________________ Grade:___________________

 

 

Signature of student:_________________________________ Date:____________________

 

 

Signature of parent/guardian:__________________________ Date_____________________