Rock River
Longhorns
Secondary
Parent/Student Handbook
2016-2017
Rock River School
PO Box 128
Rock River, WY 82083
Table of Contents
Administrator
Rock River School Song
School Colors
School Mascot
School Pride
Absence Policies
Pupil Attendance
Excused Absences
Unexcused Absences
Pre-Arranged Absences
Education Code 46012
Absence Procedures
Appointments and Leaving Early
Accidents
Accident Insurance
Activities
Alcohol/Drug Procedures
Arrivals and Departures
At Risk Students
Bicycles
Bus Conduct
Bus Disciplinary Procedures
Cellular Telephones
Change of Schedule
Scheduling
Daily Schedule
Cheating Policy
Class/Organization and Meetings
Closed Campus Policy
Dances
Detention
Lunch Detention
Discipline Codes
Due Process
Wyoming Education Code
Conduct
Disciplinary Consequences
Minor Discipline Problems
Minor Discipline Procedures
Nuisance Items
Major Discipline Problems
Major Discipline Procedures
Fighting
Positive Behavior Rewards
Physical and Verbal Abuse
Possession of Weapons
Dress and Appearance
Electronics in the classroom
Extra Curricular Activities
Family Rights and Privacy Acts
Field Trips
Fines
Fire Drills
Food and Drink Rules
Soft Drink Guidelines
Grading and Honor Roll
RRS Graduation Requirements
Hall Passes
Hands-Off Policy
Hathaway Scholarship
Homebound Instruction
Homework
Illness/Injury
Inclement Weather/School Closures
Incompletes
Internet Access
Lockers and Locks
Lost and Found
Lunchtime
Medications
Parent Contact
Plagiarism
Planners
Promotion Standards 7-8 Grades
Report Cards
Safe Schools
Sexual Harassment and Discrimination
of Students
Smoking/Tobacco Use
Student Parking
Students-18 Years Old
Student Transportation
Suspension/Expulsion
Tardy Policy
Telephone
Transfer to Other Schools
Valedictorian, Salutatorian, and Senior
Address
Vandalism
Visitors
Special Note to Parents
Site Base
Activities Handbook
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Addendums:
 Sample Request to attend Rock River
School
 Internet Acceptable Use Agreement
 Age of Majority Form
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ROCK RIVER SCHOOL
ADMINISTRATOR
School spirit is each of us supporting our school
and doing our best to keep our standards high.
Wade Fiscus - Principal
Our faculty and staff are dedicated to students
and will help you in any possible way. They are
here school days from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and
4:15 by appointment with teacher.
ROCK RIVER SCHOOL SONG
When those Rock River Longhorns fall in line.
You know we’ll sock it to them every time.
We’re gonna yell and yell and yell and yell, oh,
for the R-O-C-K-R-I-V-E-R.
We’re gonna fight, fight, fight for victory. We’re
gonna circle round and hit them hard. We’re
gonna roll our opponents on the floor, out the
door, fight, fight, fight.
Rock River has always taken pride in its
academic achievements, athletic teams, music
and extracurricular activities. This success can be
directly related to the teaching and training here
at RRS.
RRS strives for excellence from our
administrators, faculty, staff, and STUDENTS.
We expect every student to take advantage of the
opportunities provided. You are expected to get
involved and participate in as many activities,
clubs, and athletics as are of interest to you.
SCHOOL COLORS
Royal Blue and White
SCHOOL MASCOT
Students are responsible for information in this
handbook and should take this handbook home
and read it over with their parents. Parents
should discuss this handbook with their child so
that everyone understands the rules of the school.
Longhorns
ROCK RIVER SCHOOL (RRS) STUDENTS
SHOW PRIDE IN THEMSELVES AND IN
ROCK RIVER SCHOOL
We, the administration, faculty, and staff take
great pride and pleasure in welcoming you to the
school. You have the distinct honor of being a
member of an excellent student body and
attending one of the finest schools in the state of
Wyoming, Rock River School. We have
dedicated much time and energy preparing for
the coming school year so that you can have the
best possible learning environment. For that
reason, an outstanding faculty and staff is here to
inspire and guide you through a rigorous and
challenging education. We know, as you step
through the doors, you will feel at home and
sense an overwhelming feeling of pride. You are
here to share that pride and take on the
responsibility that comes with being the best.
Welcome to the excitement and school spirit of
Rock River School. School spirit is made of
those things that make RRS a great place for
each of us to be. School spirit can be divided into
these categories:
ABSENCE POLICIES
Pupil Attendance: Promptness and regularity
are essential characteristics for success in life as
well as in school. Pupils should make a habit of
prompt and regular attendance and avoid all
unnecessary absences. Absenteeism creates a
loss to the student even when such absence is
excused and work is made up. In many cases this
loss is irretrievable.
There are two categories of absences – excused
and unexcused.
Excused absences include approved absences
for school-sponsored activities, and approved
absences for illness, medical and dental
appointments that cannot be held after school. A
doctor’s verification may be required in cases of
illness. Family emergencies, court appearances,
and pre-arranged absences must be approved by
the administration.
P – Pride
O – Optimism
W – Working Hard
E – Esteem
R - Respect
Unexcused absences include appointments other
than medical, such as business appointments,
hair appointments, job interviews, shopping,
recreational activities, needed at home for chores
and baby-sitting, oversleeping, missing the bus,
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car trouble, and staying home to study or prepare
school lessons. The 5th unexcused absence will
result in truancy.
Absences not cleared within that time will be
recorded as unexcused. Students shall be
encouraged to make up any work missed during
any absence; however, at Rock River School
credit will be given for excused absences only.
Note: Please follow these procedures for your
child’s safety.
Rock River School encourages good student
attendance to be in compliance with Wyoming
Compulsory School Attendance Law, encourage
a good work ethic, and to promote student
success. When a student has more than ten (10)
absences during a school year, they must have
one of the following excuses for the absence to
be considered excused; 1) Medical excuse, either
from a doctor or dentist, 2) Administration
approved excuse for family emergencies or
extraordinary circumstances. Otherwise, the
absence will count as unexcused and a truancy.
All situations will be considered on a case-bycase basis.
Anytime a student arrives late to school, (s)he
must check in at the office. The tardy will be
determined either excused or unexcused.
Unexcused tardies will be handled according to
the tardy policy. (See Tardy Policy pg. 20)
Pre-Arranged absences: If you know in
advance, that your child will be absent, please
call or send a note to inform the school of the
absence and the days they will be gone. Please
have your child get their assignments a few days
in advance, this will allow your child to get the
necessary homework for those days they will be
missing school. Students should consult with the
teachers to determine when homework will be
due.
EDUCATION CODE 46012
APPOINTMENTS & LEAVING SCHOOL
EARLY
Verification of absences – students 18 years of
age and over: For purposes of any procedure for
verification of absences from school, a student
18 years of age or over, with respect to his own
absences from school, shall have all the
responsibilities and powers which, in the case of
a minor would be charged to the parents,
guardian, or other person having charge or
control of the minor.
Rock River School is a closed campus school.
Students may leave only with parent permission.
These absences will be determined to be excused
or unexcused. Students must check out with the
office when they leave for any reason, and they
must check in when they return to school the
same day.
If arrangements have been made by a
parent/guardian in advance, a student may be
dismissed during his/her lunch period to go off
campus with the parent/guardian. Any class time
missed due to the student leaving early or
returning late will be considered unexcused
and/or truant. At no time are students allowed to
leave school with anyone other than parents or
legal guardians without parent permission.
The office requires a note of approval from the
parent/guardian to allow their 18-year-old
student to be responsible for their own
verification of absences.
ABSENCE PROCEDURE
NOTICE! On the day a student is absent or
tardy, a call is required to the school office by
8:30 a.m. A written note or phone call to the
office secretary from a parent/guardian at the
time of the absence stating the nature of the
absence may excuse the absence. If we do not
receive the written note or phone call by 8:30
a.m. stating the reason for the absence and
asking the absence to be excused, the secretary
will call the parent/guardian to see why the
student is absent. If no contact is made the
absence will be recorded as unexcused. The
student has three school days in which to provide
parental documentation of an excused absence.
ACCIDENTS
Students must report any accident that they have
at school to their teacher. The teacher will send
the student to the office for evaluation and
referral as needed. The teacher will fill out an
Accident Injury Report and give it to the
office. The office will finish the report with their
findings and give it to the principal.
If students get hurt when there is not a teacher
available, they should go directly to the office for
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evaluation. The office will fill out the Accident
Injury Report.
student for counseling. (School or
outside agency)
b. Second offense – use the
following steps in sequence:
1. Notify office and school nurse.
2. Notify parents (tell them detectives
will be contacted)
3. Notify police (prosecution at police
option)
4. Five (5) day out of school suspension.
5. A chemical assessment strongly
recommended.
6. Recommendation to parents to refer
student for counseling. (School or
outside agency)
c. Third offense – use the following steps in
sequence:
1. Notify office and school nurse.
2. Notify parents (tell them detectives
will be contacted)
3. Notify police (prosecution at police
option)
4. Nine (9) days out of school
suspension.
5. A new chemical assessment is
mandatory.
6. Referral to the school board with a
possible recommendation for
expulsion for up to one year or
student participation in a chemical
rehabilitation program at the
expense of the student or his/her
parents.
ACCIDENT INSURANCE
The school district attempts to provide safe
conditions in the schools in order to protect
students from injury. The district, however, does
not carry insurance to cover medical or hospital
cost in case of accidents to students. If parents
wish to do so they may secure student accident
insurance, which is available. Contact the office
for more information.
ACTIVITIES
There are many activities for the students to
participate in athletic and non-athletic. There are
activities, such as drama, school dances, afterschool tutoring, spelling bees, science fairs, and
music concerts. All of these activities play a big
part in RRS extra-curricular activities. (See
Activity handbook pg. 25)
ALCOHOL/DRUG PROCEDURES
Possession, sale and/or use of alcohol or other
drugs anywhere on school property at any time is
absolutely forbidden, both by school policy and
by law.
Possessing alcohol or any illicit (illegal),
controlled substance, as defined by the Wyoming
state law, by any student while attending school,
while on campus, or at any school activity, is
prohibited.
Students who participate in activities associated
with the school are required to sign the activity
conduct code contract (Please refer to the
contract at the back of the handbook.) If a
student is found to have violated the contract,
steps of ineligibility will be set into motion. The
code of conduct will be enforced along with the
school policy listed above.
If a student is involved with alcohol or drugs at
any school function, home or away, using or in
possession, (s)he will be suspended from that
activity and/or school according to the following
policy:
a.
First offense – use the following steps
in sequence:
1. Notify office and school nurse.
2. Notify parents (tell them detectives
will be contacted)
3. Notify police (prosecution at police
option)
4. Three (3) day out of school
suspension
5. A chemical assessment strongly
recommended.
6. Recommendation to parents to refer
Any student who, in the judgment of school
personnel, has consumed alcohol or any illicit
(illegal), controlled substance as defined by
Wyoming state law, recently enough to display
signs of consumption, such as unusual behavior
or the odor of the breath, is in violation and will
be punished as outlined above.
If the residue of a controlled substance is found
in any apparatus such as a pipe or other
container, the policy regarding possession of a
controlled substance will apply. Regardless of
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residue, possession of any form of drug
paraphernalia (such as roach clips, papers, pipes,
etc.) will be cause for concern and notification of
parents.
Students who distribute or give away drugs or
alcohol or prescription medication will be
punished as outlined above.
the At-Risk Committee will work together as
needed to improve the grade. That student will
be given opportunities to improve the grade. If
the “F” remains, parents will be provided written
notification of the grades. Steps will continue to
be taken to assist the student with improving
grades.
Any student who voluntarily approaches a staff
member, in a counseling situation, concerning
his involvement with alcohol or other drugs and
who expresses a desire to remove himself from
their use will in no way be subject to reprimand
by the school.
BICYCLES
Students bringing bicycles to school are
encouraged to provide a means by which the
bicycle may be secured. (Padlocks, locking
chain, etc.) Bicycles must be parked in the
provided bicycle racks. Bicycles will not be
ridden on the school grounds during school
instructional time.
ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES
Classes begin at 8:00 a.m. After school, students
must be out of the building by 3:30 p.m. unless
they are under direct supervision of a teacher or
coach. Students are not allowed in the
building before 7:40 a.m., unless prior
arrangements have been made with a teacher or
coach.
The school is not responsible for any loss or
damage to bicycles that are brought to school.
BUS CONDUCT
A student being transported by District
contracted buses or vehicles, shall conduct
himself/herself in a lawful and orderly manner at
all times while being transported.
AT RISK STUDENTS
Per the By-laws and Policies of the Board of
Education for ACSD #1, a student is considered
to be “At-Risk” of academic failure if the student
is not:
1. Achieving proficiency on local
performance standard, or
2. Making satisfactory progress toward
high school graduation.
“At-risk” students are likely to experience
academic failure because of social, family, or
health/medical conditions, home language,
disabilities, or at-risk behavior. The term “At –
Risk” behaviors include, but are not limited to:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Prohibited acts or conduct on buses:
1.
Being disobedient or using imprudent
conduct toward the driver of the bus.
2. Moving around while the vehicle is in
motion.
3. Sticking head or hands or any portion of
the body out the windows.
4. Throwing objects out of windows.
5. Tampering with the vehicle or with
some of its equipment.
6. Unusual loud talking or undo noise.
7. Smoking on the bus or vehicle.
8. Scuffling or engaging in fighting on the
bus or vehicle.
9. Littering on the bus.
10. Using obscene language.
11. Disturbing fellow passengers.
12. Any other form of conduct, which will
tend to prohibit or adversely affect the
orderly and efficient transportation of
students.
Earning a proficiency level of novice on
the Language Arts benchmark
Reading one or more grade-levels
below grade placement
Retained one or more years
Poor attendance (less than 95%)
One or more failing grades
In line with the Rock River School Mission and
Goals, the administrative and educational staff
takes several steps to ensure that these
opportunities are available for all students.
Teachers monitor grades. A student that is
receiving an “F” average in a class will be
notified. The student, classroom teacher(s) and
Riding a bus is a privilege and it can be taken
away! Laramie students are expected to ride the
bus. (See Student transportation on pg. 20)
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Also, students cannot choose to take more than
one study hall even if they have met the 25 credit
graduation requirement. To maintain good
programs, students need to take other classes;
otherwise we jeopardize losing quality teachers
and programs. More important, this would result
in programs that might not meet the needs of the
students.
BUS DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE
The routine bus discipline actions are as follows:
1. The first incident will be a warning and
probation.
2. The second incident may be removal
from the bus for one (1) week.
3. The third incident may be removal from
the bus for (2) two weeks.
3. The fourth incident may be removal
from the bus for the rest of the year.
Problems confronting scheduling:
a. We have only one section of each class so it
is difficult when a student fails a course.
Unlike at a larger school where the student
can retake the class the next semester, our
students need to take it the following year
(unless they attend summer school if the
course is offered.)
b. Students that transfer in to Rock River
School from other districts often have a hard
time with scheduling because certain classes
we offer in 9th and 10th grade are offered in
different years at their previous schools,
such as Civics. It is sometimes difficult to
get the students back on line with taking
classes with other students in their same
grade.
c. Since we only offer one section of each
major class, if a student puts off taking a
required class one year and hopes to take it
later, they risk that class being offered at the
same time as another class they need for
graduation.
If students are suspended from the bus, it is
expected that they will find alternate means of
transportation, i.e. parents. Failure to be in
school will result in an unexcused absence or
truancy.
CELLULAR TELEPHONES
Students may possess cellular telephones at Rock
River School. Cellular telephones may not be
used during any class period without teacher
permission. Calculators, cameras and other
cellular telephone features may not be used
during class time. Cellular telephones may be
used in the building before school, between
classes, during lunchtime and after school.
Students who abuse their telephones during class
time will have them confiscated by the teacher
for the remainder of the day. A parent may be
called to retrieve their child’s telephone from an
administrator at school for repeated offenses.
Daily Schedule:
CHANGE OF SCHEDULE
Time
8:05-8:50
8:53-9:37
9:40-10:24
10:27-11:11
11:14-11:58
11:58-12:38
12:41-1:25
1:28-2:12
2:15-3:00
The guidance counselor or principal at the
request of the classroom teacher or the
administrator makes changes in class schedules.
Changing of schedules after the start of school
will be considered on a case by case basis. No
scheduled changes will be made after two school
days. Questions about class schedules should be
taken to the guidance counselor.
SCHEDULING: In order to keep our programs
as full as possible, it is necessary that students
not be allowed to TA for a teacher or take more
than one study hall. Many schools in the state
only allow a study hall if the student is not
performing as expected or is not progressing
toward meeting their graduation requirements.
Therefore, some students are required to attend a
mandatory study hall where they must study.
Period
1
2
3
4
5
Lunch
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7
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CHEATING POLICY
At Rock River School we emphasize the
cooperative effort of all students. We want
students to help each other. Teachers are
available for help – we want students to make
use of them if they are having trouble with
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schoolwork; however, certain assignments must
be done individually.
It will be considered cheating if a student copies
work on an assignment or test, which should be
done individually. Both the person doing the
copying and the person who willingly and
knowingly cooperates in letting his/her work be
copied will be considered cheating.
4.
Offending students will be confronted directly,
and the teacher will inform parents. Students will
receive zeroes for the work in question.
5.
Any staff that observes copying or possible
cheating in any area will confront students, write
what they observe on the top of each paper, and
inform the student’s teacher of their observation.
Teachers will decide what, if any, action needs to
be taken.
6.
7.
the parents will be notified. Further penalties
may be imposed according to school policy
and procedure.
Any student creating a disturbance will have
his/her parents notified and then are asked to
leave the dance, the building and the
grounds. Any student asked to leave an
activity WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO
ATTEND ANY FUTURE DANCES FOR
THE REST OF THE SCHOOL YEAR.
Students must sign in and sign out of school
dances. Once a student leaves, he/she will
not be allowed to return. Exceptions must be
cleared through a faculty chaperone.
A voucher system may be approved by the
principal, which would allow out-of-school
students to attend a Rock River dance.
Dances for Rock River School will be for
grades 7-12 unless indicated.
DETENTION
CLASS/ORGANIZATION AND MEETINGS
Due to inappropriate behavior any teacher may
assign any student to that teacher’s detention.
The teacher will determine where and how long
the detention will be.
1. Class and organization meetings must be held
at lunch, before school, or after school, unless
cleared in advance by the principal.
2. Each class or organization may have a
representative to represent the class/organization
in Student Council.
All detention time assigned by teachers must be
made up the day of the problem or the following
day. The student has the responsibility of
informing the parent of this detention and
arranging for transportation. Detention time can
be made up before or after school. If a student
fails to make up assigned detention for a teacher,
the teacher will call the parent and schedule a
time with the parent for the student to serve that
detention. The teacher will also assign the
student lunch detention. If the student fails to
make-up teacher-detention after the first
disciplinary, the second disciplinary will result in
two detentions.
CLOSED CAMPUS POLICY
RRS is a closed campus. Any student who
arrives on campus and leaves school property
without administrative permission will be
considered in violation of the Closed Campus
Policy. Also, any student who leaves school
grounds and returns without administrative
approval will be considered in violation of the
Closed Campus Policy. Students in violation of
the Closed Campus Policy will be verbally
warned, and notification will be sent to their
parents. The next violation will be handled as a
major disciplinary problem.
Lunch Detention:
1.
DANCES
2.
1.
Every dance should have at least two
sponsors, one of which must be a
teacher/Principal, or staff member.
2. The dance should be scheduled two weeks
in advance and approved by the principal.
3. If a student appears to have been drinking or
using drugs, the police will be called, and
3.
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Any student may be assigned to lunch
detention by the principal or teacher as a
consequence of unacceptable behavior.
The student will be assigned to the lunch
detention room under the supervision of an
adult.
No excuse will be accepted for not being
present. This detention will take precedence
over such activities as student council, grade
level meetings, and other club meetings.
4.
5.
6.
If a student reaches three detentions, a
parent conference will be requested and the
student may receive in school suspension
until the conference is held.
Students are to bring homework to lunch
detention.
If a student misses or is late to an assigned
lunch detention without the principal’s
permission or refuses to cooperate while in
lunch detention (s)he will be assigned two
days In-school-suspension.
(ii) Willful destruction or defacing of
school property;
(iii) Any behavior which in the judgment of
the local board of trustees is clearly
detrimental to the education, welfare,
safety, or morals of other pupil;
(iv) Torturing, tormenting, or abusing a
pupil or in any way maltreating a pupil
or a teacher with physical violence.”
Based on the above legal foundation, students
are advised that:
1) If a student is a) willfully disobedient or
openly defiant; b) willfully destroys or
defaces school property; c) acts in a
manner which is clearly detrimental to
the education, welfare, safety, or morals
of other pupils; d) tortures, torments,
abuses, or maltreats another student
with physical violence, that student may
be suspended for ten (10) days and
recommended for expulsion.
2) If, in the opinion of the administration,
a student engages in the behaviors
described in #1, but the administration
does not believe the behavior warrants
either ten (10) days suspension and/or
possible expulsion, the student may be
subjected to other less serious
consequences as described in this
handbook.
3) If a student engages in behavior, which
is in violation of school rules but does
not rise to the level required by state
statute for suspension or expulsion, the
student may be subjected to other less
serious consequences as described in
this handbook.
4) The disciplinary consequences
described in this handbook provide
student, faculty, and administrators with
guidelines for the application of the
disciplinary consequences. Alternative
strategies including less severe
consequences than listed may be
utilized at the administrator’s discretion.
The administrator also has the authority
to impose more serious consequences
than those listed under Minor/Major
Discipline Procedures should the
circumstances be deemed to warrant
such action.
DISCIPLINE CODES
The purpose of the Rock River School Discipline
Code is to recognize, preserve, and protect the
individual rights of students with the necessary
conditions of a safe and orderly environment.
This environment must be guaranteed against
disruption by an individual or group of
individuals.
In accordance with the Wyoming and United
States Constitutions, procedural and substantial
due process will be afforded all students. The
procedure to be followed for disciplinary actions
including suspension and expulsion will be
governed by the Wyoming Educational Code of
1969. Students are advised that they are subject
to the By-Laws and Policies of the Board of
Education as well as this Handbook. Copies of
the Board Policy are available online through the
District web site and the school office.
The Discipline Code will be in effect during
school hours, on school district property, and at
all school district sponsored functions and
activities.
The Due Process procedure used is as follows:
1. The student will be informed of the
charges against him/her.
2. The evidence against the student will be
explained to him/her.
3. The student will be given an opportunity
to explain the situation and/or his/her
behavior.
The Wyoming Education Code of 1969 (as
amended 2001) states in Section 21-4-306 that
“the following shall be grounds for suspension or
expulsion of a child from a public school during
the school year:
(i) Continued willful disobedience or open
defiance of the school authority or
school personnel;
Conduct
Any conduct of a student, which endangers the
property, health, safety, or comfort of others,
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and/or impedes the opportunity for him/herself
and others to learn will not be tolerated. Students
may be removed from the class for the semester
or year should the infraction violate classroom
rules or be detrimental to the education or safety
of others in the classroom.
The types of consequences for inappropriate
behavior are usually based on inconvenience to
the student, and the degree of consequence is
usually based on the needs of the student. An
attempt is made to show students that it is more
convenient to behave appropriately, and that
inappropriate behavior will certainly result in an
inconvenient consequence. Also, different
situations require different degrees of
consequences. Awareness of logical consequence
is a mature reason for appropriate behavior and
is one goal of the school.
Examples of unacceptable types of conduct in
each category are as follows:
A. Endangering property, health, safety, or
comfort of others.
1. Fighting
2. Physical harassment
3. Verbal harassment
4. Running
5. Possession of weapons, fireworks,
etc.
6. Vandalism
7. Throwing or propelling objects
B. Impending the opportunities of him/herself
and others to learn:
1. Loud talking
2. Class disruption
3. Unacceptable language
C. Unlawful:
1. Possession of drugs, alcohol, etc.
2. Stealing
3. Extortion
4. Smoking
D. Disobedience:
1. Willfully disregarding a reasonable
request of a school adult
2. Disrespectful behavior
E. Violating School Rules:
1. Tardiness
2. Loitering
Disciplinary Consequences
The “Disciplinary Consequences” described in
the following section provide students, faculty,
and administrators with guidelines for the
application of the Disciplinary Consequences.
Alternative strategies may be utilized in the best
interest of an individual or at the building level
administrator’s discretion. The administrator has
the authority to impose more serious
consequences as allowed by Wyoming State Law
and School Board Policy should the
circumstance be deemed to warrant such action.
1.
2.
3.
4.
The above list is not meant to be all-inclusive.
The consequences for unacceptable behavior will
be as follows:
5.
School rules are written under the “reasonable
person” concept – that is, any reasonable person
would understand the purpose for the rule. In all
discipline cases, teachers and/or administrators
will make every attempt to notify and involve the
legal guardian with the discipline process.
Except in the situation where there is a risk of
personal injury or an alleged felony,
administrators will notify parents prior to police
involvement which may be in addition to school
consequences concerning a particular incident.
Teacher Detention – time assigned before or
after school by teacher for some classroom
violation
Lunch Detention – see pg. 6
IN SCHOOL SUSPENSION – Days
assigned by the administrators to in-school
suspension area. Number of days assigned
according to step student is on at time of
problem.
OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION – Days
assigned by the administrators out of school
due to advancing disciplinary problems.
Number of days suspended assigned
according to step student is on at time of
problem.
Expulsion – School board action to exclude
a student from school for a period longer
than 10 days up to one full year.
MINOR DISCIPLINE PROBLEMS
Offenses
Class disruption, loud talking, running, throwing
or propelling objects, disrespectful behavior,
unacceptable language, and loitering are
examples of minor discipline problems. The
above list is not meant to be all – inclusive.
9
by students under eighteen (18) years of age is
illegal according to Wyoming State Law.
Violators will be reported to Law enforcement.)
(See page 19 for discipline action.)
MINOR DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES
Step #1 Student is isolated by teacher and a
private conference is held with the student in an
effort to resolve the problem.
--- Lying to a school official
Step #2 Teacher calls parent and informs them
of the situation. Depending on individual
situations, student may be assigned to teacher
detention. Teacher documents results of parent
contact and writes up a discipline notice.
--- Fireworks, vandalism, possession of
pornographic materials, weapons, possession of ,
distribution of or making of any items in a
school class that are illegal or dangerous such as
weapons, drug paraphernalia, any activities
deemed to be gang related, etc.
Step #3 Student is referred to the administration.
Student may have conference with the teacher
and administrator. Parent notified. Lunch
Detention may be assigned. Failure to make up
detention time will result in a 2 days in-school
suspension. Disciplinary referral is filed by
teacher, including documentation of Steps 1 & 2.
--- Vandalism includes having items, such as
shaving cream, eggs, etc., on the premises! In all
vandalism cases, restitution for actual damages
and restorative labor will be assessed and paid
prior to the student’s return to regular classes. In
all discipline cases the school reserves the option
of involving law enforcement as needed.
Step #4 Student is referred to the administration.
Conference is held with student. The discipline
problem has now become excessive, and all
future incidents may be handled under
provisions of major Discipline Problems.
--- Throwing of food and other items.
--- Any behavior which would clearly be
detrimental to the education, welfare, safety or
morals of others or (s)he poses an imminent
danger to his/herself or other students,
Nuisance Items
Many times students will be in possession of
items such as rubber bands, sunflower seeds,
candy, etc. Although these items themselves are
not a major problem, sometimes students will
use them in an inappropriate activity such as
shooting spit wads with rubber bands, spitting
sunflower seeds on the floors, etc. In the event
any item becomes a nuisance that item will be
confiscated and the student assigned lunch
detention.
--- Three or more disciplinary referrals involving
substitute teacher.
--- Truancy or 4 unexcused absences.
--- Plagiarism
Major Discipline Procedures
In all cases, consequences are at the discretion
of the administration.
Major Discipline Problems
Step #1 A minimum of a 1-day in-school
suspension or 1 day out-of-school suspension.
Parent contact before student can return to
regular classes.
Offenses
--- Physical harassment and verbal harassment,
including any encouraging of others to do the
same. This may include verbal put-downs.
Step #2 A minimum of a 3-days in-schoolsuspension or 3 days out-of –school suspension.
Parent contact before student can return to
classes.
--- Stealing and extortion
--- Willful disobedience, this includes any
interference with a school adult performing
his/her duty or insubordination.
--- Possession or use of tobacco or tobacco-like
products (Note: Possession and use of tobacco
NOTE At this point the student’s inappropriate
behavior is excessive and suspensions will be out
of school. By using the Positive Behavior
10
Rewards listed below, a student can reverse
where they are in this procedure.
Step #3 A minimum 3- days out-of-school
suspension. Parent contact before student can
return to regular classes.
* This does not include alcohol, drug or tobacco
use.
Step #4 A minimum 5- days out-of-school
suspension. Parent contact before student can
return to regular classes.
In the event a student demonstrates any physical
or verbal abuse toward any school adult, (s)he
will be suspended and a parent conference held
to review the individual situation. Any additional
consequences will be at the discretion of the
administration.
Physical and Verbal Abuse Toward a School
Adult
Step #5 A minimum 10day out of school
suspension with a possible recommendation for
expulsion. A probation contract may be offered
at the discretion of the administration.
Possession of Weapons
No knives, guns, or other weapons are to be
brought into school or worn or displayed in
school, unless approved for academic purposes.
Any weapons possession warrants an immediate
out of school suspension. Students who wish to
use antique or other historical weapons in a
classroom presentation must have prior
permission of the teacher and the principal to
bring them into the school. Any classroom
presentation involving weapons must have the
weapon(s) rendered as safe as possible.
Fighting
Fighting is not acceptable behavior at Rock
River School. The following steps will be taken
for students involved in a fight.
1st OFFENSE: 5-day suspension.
2ND OFFENSE: 10-day suspension.
3rd OFFENSE: 10-day suspension with a
recommendation for expulsion. Any student
exhibiting dangerous assaultive or fighting
behaviors will be suspended for 10 days with an
expulsion recommendation exclusive of the
above-mentioned steps.
DRESS AND APPEARANCE
We take pride in the appearance of our students.
We believe that the way you dress has an effect
on your behavior, the quality of schoolwork, and
reflects on the Rock River School.
Positive Behavior Rewards
Because we want you to gain the most that is
possible from your school experience, you will
not be permitted to wear styles that are disruptive
or detrimental to the purpose of our school.
Specifically, hats or head scarves are not to be
worn in the building; shirts which advertise
alcohol, tobacco or drugs are not permitted, nor
are those that are see-through or have obscene or
questionable language or graphics printed on
them; halters, spaghetti string tops, bare midriffs,
and pajamas are not allowed. Pajamas will only
be permitted for special events, if authorized by
the principal. Wyoming State Law requires
students to wear appropriate shoes at all times.
No slippers will be allowed. Clothing must be
worn in the manner for which it is designed.
Students whose clothing is judged to be
inappropriate will be asked to change. If you
choose to violate the dress code, you will need to
change clothes. Excessive incidents will result in
If throughout the school year, a student has some
discipline problems and is placed on the major
disciplinary steps but then demonstrates positive
behavior to the school administrators, the
following action will take place:
1. If the student maintains a six-week period
beyond his/her last disciplinary problem
without any further disciplinary problems,
his/her position on the step schedule will be
reduced one step.
2. For each additional six-week period, free of
disciplinary problems, the student’s position
on the step schedule will be reduced one
additional step.
3. If the student maintains three consecutive
six-week periods free of disciplinary
problems, (s)he will be completely removed
from the major disciplinary steps as if no
disciplinary problems have ever occurred.
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consequences. All students are expected to meet
the above dress and appearance regulations.
FIELD TRIPS
All field trips must be cleared through the
administrator. Adequate adult supervision and
parent permission forms must be arranged before
plans are finalized. If the field trip is part of
the student’s classroom grade, the student will
be expected to attend. If the field trip is an
extracurricular activity/field trip, the student
must meet all requirements and expectations
under the Athletic/Extracurricular Policy.
For after school activities, students will be
expected to dress appropriately in accordance
with the nature of the activity.
Students participating in inter-school activities
and/or school sponsored or public appearances
may be required to meet more stringent dress and
appearance regulations. Certain instructors may
require safety clothing.
The principal and/or teacher shall define
appropriateness of dress and appearance.
FINES
Fines may be assessed to students for lost
combination locks, lost or damaged books,
damage to school property, vandalism, etc.
ELECTRONICS IN CLASSROOM
There will be no MP3’s, IPods, etc. unless
requested or permitted by the instructor during
class.
All students are expected to pay all their fines
on or before the last day of school. As outlined
by the Wyoming Education Code: “No credit for
a course which has been completed successfully
shall be denied a student who has earned it,
provided such credit shall not be deemed
earned until payment has been made for all
indebtedness due to the school district.” Thus,
access to grades will not be allowed until the
fines are paid. If you have questions please call
the school at 378-2271.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES --DANCES, GAMES, ETC.
Students must be in school all class periods prior
to the function if he/she wishes to attend the
function. Requests for exceptions should be
brought to the office for the principal’s
consideration.
Students, who wish to stay for an event at
school, will be riding a different bus, or will be
going to someone else’s home need to bring a
note from their parents/guardians letting the
office or sponsor know. If a student wishes to
stay at the school until the school event, they
need to prearrange an adult sponsor that will stay
at the school and is willing to be responsible for
them. Approval must be provided in writing
prior to staying.
FIRE DRILLS
It is required by the State that a fire drill be held
once a month. These drills could include
preparation for such things as fire, natural
disasters, bomb threats, intruder on grounds, or
almost anything identified as a need to prepare
for. When the alarm sounds, students are to
walk in a quiet and orderly manner to the
appointed exit. The class should go a safe
distance from the building until the all-clear bell
rings. After exiting the building, teachers must
take attendance and report any missing child to
the principal or office staff. ALL STUDENTS
AND PERSONNEL MUST LEAVE THE
BUILDING.
FAMILY RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACTS
The parent of a minor may look at a child’s
school records until the child is 18. A student
may look at his/her records when he/she reaches
the age of 18.
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impacted soft drink vending machines will
continue to offer various carbonated drinks
until the expiration of the contract at which
time this policy will be implemented.
FOOD AND DRINK RULES
1.
2.
3.
4.
Food and drink may only be purchased
before and after school and during
lunchtime. Food and drink may be
consumed in the cafeteria and lobby.
NO FOOD AND ONLY WATER ARE
ALLOWED IN THE HALLWAYS.
Food & beverages may be allowed in
the classroom at the teacher’s
discretion.
Carbonated energy and energy shots
(example: 5 Hour Energy, Monster,
Rockstar, Red Bull and any other
brands not mentioned) are NOT
ALLOWED at any time in the school
building.
If a student violates this rule they will
be written up on a disciplinary by the
faculty or staff member who witnessed
the violation. The principal will call the
students to the office for disciplinary
action.
Exception: meetings called by teachers
during lunch may have school allowed
beverages.
GRADING AND HONOR ROLL FOR
STUDENTS 7 – 12
Every nine weeks students will be evaluated in
each course they have taken during that period
and a mid-term report will be mailed home.
Report cards will be mailed home at semester.
The form of evaluation is a letter grade, which
could be an A, B, C, D, F. This grade is based
on the quality and quantity of work that the
student has done in the class during that
particular grading period.
Teachers will establish the low mark for failure
at the beginning of the term for students. Failure
usually represents a student’s inability to do the
work required for a subject or his/her
unwillingness to try to do the work assigned.
The Honor Roll will be computed each semester.
Any student having a 3.0 grade point average
and having no “F” grade is eligible for the Honor
Roll.
Soft Drink Guidelines
December 18, 2002
Principal’s Honor Roll will be computed each
semester. Any student having a 4.0 grade point
average is eligible for the Principal’s Honor Roll.
Because of the apparent detrimental effects of
carbonated drinks on good dental health the Soft
Drink Committee is submitting the following as
a recommended policy for Albany County
School District #1:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
ROCK RIVER SCHOOL GRADUATION
REQUIREMENTS
These guidelines are applicable only to
beverages sold to students before, during,
and up to one half-hour after regular school
day on school district property.
Approved beverages that may be sold during
the regular school day are drinks that are
non-carbonated and meet the Federal rules
on foods of minimal nutritional value.
Soft drinks may still be sold for fund-raising
activities or at school events at least one-half
hour after the end of the regular school day.
Soft drinks, in approved containers, may be
bought from outside school sources in
accordance with the school site guidelines.
This policy will be effective immediately
upon final adoption by the Albany County
Board of Education except where it would
be in conflict with existing vendor contracts.
In the event of existing vendor contracts, the
Students desiring to graduate from RRS must
meet requirements in the following four areas.
1.
Eight semesters of attendance for graduates.
Attendance: Students are required to be in
attendance for eight periods at RRS. Eight
semesters of attendance, grade 9 through 12,
are required for graduation for all graduates.
Alternatives to this procedure are limited to
the following and must have administrative
approval. Within the scope of the
alternatives listed, no student will be
allowed to take less than four classes and a
study hall to receive credit for attendance.
Exceptions to Board Policy as implemented
in this procedure must be approved by the
Board of Education.
13





f. Vocational or Fine Arts
Requirements Students must earn 1 credit to meet
graduation requirements (One year of
Vocational or Fine Arts or one semester
in each subject area). Departments with
courses meeting graduation
requirements include: Any Vocation
(V) or Fine Arts (FA) classes:
Agriculture, Art, Auto, Business,
Marketing, Family and Consumer
Science, Health Occupations,
Mechanical Drawing, Music –
Instrumental or Vocal, Woodworking,
and Welding.
Work Release---Requires parent
and employer written approval--seniors only.
Returning seniors---The attendance
requirement must have been met.
Psychiatric/medical
recommendation---Written
recommendations will be included
in student’s file
Teenage mothers---Temporary
basis only
Students on Homebound
Instruction---To be on homebound
instruction a student must be
confined to home or hospital and a
doctor’s written recommendation
will be required.
2.
Earn a minimum of 25 credits
3.
Pass required courses with a D or better
as follows:
5.
a. English – 8 semesters of English
must include: English 9, English 10, a
literature course, a composition
course, and two additional English
courses. Students who do not earn
credit in English 9 and who never-the
–less advance to the high school need
to take a class with a significant
writing component for each semester
of English 9 for which no credit was
earned.
b. Science – Students must earn 3
credits to satisfy their Science
requirement.
c. Mathematics – 3 credits of Math
Math courses are sequential and any
math course, which is at a higher
level than the one previously passed
in the junior high, will meet this
requirement. Underclassman are
encouraged to continue a math
program if there is any possibility that
they will attend college.
d. Social Studies - 3 credits of Social
Studies. Students must pass one year of
a Civics/Social Studies elective, one
year of U.S. History (of which a
semester must be Cold War to the
Present, and one year of additional
Social Studies elective).
e. Physical Education -2 credits of
P.E./Health including 9th and 10th grade
P.E.
In addition to the traditional 25 credits
required for graduation, all students must be
provided an opportunity to demonstrate
proficiency on content and performance
standards in nine core content areas
identified by the Wyoming Department of
Education.
Demonstration of proficient performance
must be demonstrated through a Body of
Evidence identified by the District and
approved by the Board of Trustees.
A student may earn a diploma with one of
the following three endorsements to be
stated on the student transcript:
1. General transcript endorsement
Student proficient in 5 of 9 content areas.
2. Comprehensive transcript endorsement
Student proficient in all 9 content areas.
3. Advanced transcript endorsement
Student advanced proficient in at least 5
content areas and proficient in all other
areas.
Three Tiered Endorsement
Frequently Asked Questions
a. How will I know the progress of my
student towards graduation?
The first criterion for graduation from
Rock River High School remains the
earning of 25 credits in the nine core
content areas. Without the necessary
course credits, students cannot earn a
high school diploma. If your student is
at risk for not meeting course credit
requirements you will be notified by the
Rock River School counseling office to
discuss your options.
14
b. How does the three-tiered endorsement
required by the state of Wyoming affect my
children and their future?
extended day programs, as well as in
summer school programs.
Mathematics: Once the credit
requirements are satisfied, proficiency
levels can be determined through the
examination of the same indicators as
listed above. Students will be provided
multiple opportunities to demonstrate
proficiency.
A Wyoming High School diploma is the
recognized completion of the high
school experience. This diploma is
earned by completion of course credits.
There are three endorsements available
for the transcript only, not reflected on
the actual diploma itself. The effect of
this leveled endorsement is unknown at
this point, as UW to date does not
recognize the tiered endorsement only
the diploma.
Science: Once credit requirements are
met, student proficiency will be
determined through teacher judgment,
district, state and national assessments.
c. How is a student deemed advanced in any
one content area?
Social Studies: Once credit
requirements are met, student
proficiency will be determined through
teacher judgment, district, state and
national assessments. There is no
standardized test or state assessment at
this time.
Remember that the successful
completion of the required courses is
the first requisite.
English: 4 credits, 4 years (9-12)
Science: 3 credits, 3 years (9-12)
Math: 3 credits, 3 years (9-12)
Social Studies: 3 credits, 3 years (9-12)
Physical Education; 2 credits 1 PE, 1
Health, 2 years (9-12)
Vocational and Fine Arts: 1 credit; 1
year of either one or one semester of
each
Physical Education: Credit
requirements, district assessments,
course performance, and other
additional indicators. There is no
standardized test or state assessment at
this time.
After the student satisfies the credit
requirements, proficiency levels can be
determined according to the district
body of evidence system. In ACSD, the
proficiency levels are determined at the
content level not at the course or
standard level. A variety of indicators
are examined to see if a student is
proficient according to state adopted
descriptors.
Health: Based on Credit requirements
and teacher judgment.
Career and Vocational Education:
Proficiency levels can be met in a
variety of areas: Business, Family and
Consumer Science, Agriculture, and
Industrial Arts. Proficiency will be
determined by participation in course
work and performance on district level
assessments in each of the areas.
d. How are proficiency levels determined in
each of the 9 content areas?
Fine and Performing Arts: Once
credit requirements are met, proficiency
levels can be satisfied by coursework,
district assessments, and participation in
performances. Proficiency in this area
may be met as early as grade 7, but
advanced performance is determined by
coursework and participation in grades
10-12.
Language Arts: After the credit
requirements are satisfied, proficiency
levels can be determined using a
number of indicators outlined in ACSD
body of evidence. These include
district, state, and national assessments
in the area of reading and writing.
Opportunities for demonstration of
proficiency will be available to students
within the coursework of the school, in
15
Foreign Language: There is no credit
requirement for foreign language.
According to the Wyoming State
Standards for foreign language, minimal
conversational competence and taking a
semester of foreign language in grades
9-12 can satisfy the proficiency level.
If a student successfully completes a
high school foreign language class, they
may be deemed advanced in this
content area.
HATHAWAY SCHOLARSHIP
The State of Wyoming provides Hathaway Merit
and Need Scholarships for Wyoming students
attending the University of Wyoming and
Wyoming community colleges. Every Wyoming
student who meets the merit requirements can
earn a Hathaway Merit Scholarship. Contact
your school counselor for more information.
HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION
Any student enrolled at Rock River School who
is injured or is ill and is required by his/her
physician to be confined at home or in the
hospital for more than five school days is upon
written recommendation of the physician,
eligible for the district’s Homebound Instruction
Program. Parents must contact the school to
obtain a Homebound Application Form, which
must be completed by the parent and physician
and returned to the school for consideration by
the Director of Special Services. Upon
completion of the form and approved by the
district officials, a homebound teacher will be
assigned.
HALL PASSES
In order to protect and facilitate the schoollearning climate, ALL students must have a pass
in their possession in order to be in the halls
while classes are in session. A student must
check in with his/her assigned teacher for that
period before being allowed to go anywhere on a
pass. Students must also check in with the office
when returning from an appointment so that they
may get an admit pass back to class. Students
who use the Library must have a pass or be
accompanied by their classroom teacher.
Students moving about the building without a
pass may be subject to disciplinary action. The
student’s planner is their hallway pass.
HOMEWORK
During each class period a portion of the time
may be devoted to supervised study. However,
all preparation cannot be completed during the
class period. Part of the school training should
be development of ability to work independently
from the teacher. Homework, recreation and
home duties should be coordinated so that all
three may receive their proper allocation of time.
Choose a quiet, well-lighted place for study and
plan to devote time to study on a regular basis.
A reasonable length of time for a student to
prepare and hand in make-up work is allowed.
One day to make up work is allowed for each
excused day of absence. Work that was assigned
prior to and due during an absence must be
turned in upon return. If a student’s illness is
such that he/she will be absent for more than two
days, homework may be requested through the
office. Please allow 24 hours for requests to be
sent out and returned by teachers. Parents
should make arrangements to have the
assignments picked up. Parents must notify the
office prior to their child’s prearranged absence
in order for that absence to be excused.
HANDS-OFF POLICY
A “Hands-Off” policy for students will be
enforced at RRS. “Hands-Off “includes any
display of affection that goes beyond
handholding. To ensure a positive school
atmosphere, students are not to embrace, hug,
kiss, or exhibit any other form of inappropriate
behavior on school grounds.
Inappropriate display of affection such as
embracing and similar conduct may be offensive
to other people and is, therefore not acceptable at
school. All students are expected to refrain from
any display of affection beyond holding hands.
Parents will be notified if students do not comply
with this expectation.
Students will be warned on the first offense. A
second offense will result in a disciplinary and
notification to parents.
16
Late Work: will be graded according to
individual teacher policies.
the acceptable use agreement provided in the
back of this book is signed and returned.
Without this opportunity, your child will miss
out on a valuable resource not only for his/her
acquisition of knowledge, but also for personal
growth in the 21st century.
In the fall of 1998, the school board, the
superintendent, and the technology director
implemented a content-based Internet filter
throughout the school district. This “firewall”
attempts to protect the district’s computers and
users from unwanted intrusions from outside the
district. It also blocks most materials that might
be objectionable; for example, material that is
considered to be pornographic, illegal, socially
unacceptable, or violent in nature.
ILLNESS/INJURY
A teacher may send an injured or ill student to
the office or may send another student to notify
the office when the injured or ill student is
unable to get to the office by himself/herself. In
no case shall a student leave the school for either
of these reasons without the office being
notified.
INCLEMENT WEATHER/SCHOOL
CLOSURES
Internet Curriculum may include:
-E-mail procedures
-Netiquette (which deals with proper
behavior on the Internet)
-Browsing and searching the internet
-Evaluating search engines
-Using critical thinking skills to interpret
documents found on the Internet
-Knowledge of bibliographic format to
cite resources
-Understanding of safe practices and
procedures to follow when using the
internet
-Proficiency in developing projects using
Internet resources for content area classes
SCHOOL CLOSURES: In the event of a
serious storm, listen to our local radio stations
for the announcement of school closure. The
decision to close schools comes from our
superintendent, in cooperation with contacts
throughout the county.
In case of inclement weather, the district will
monitor road conditions and make transportation
arrangements for students prior to road closures.
Arrangements will be made to notify parents in
case of early departures from school.
INCOMPLETES
The assignments for grades that have been
designated as an incomplete on a report card
must be made up within two weeks of the end of
a grading period and the teacher must submit a
grade change form within this time limit. If
there are extenuating circumstances, the teacher
may file an extension form with the office
designating the date when the incomplete grade
will be changed. With administrative approval,
the extension can be granted for an additional
few days.
For complete information regarding the
conditions, rules and agreement your child will
be required to follow, please access the school
district’s web page at: http://acsd1.org
Student Consequences for Misuse of
Access Privileges
First Offense
Loss of access to computers for one
week and conference with parent,
teacher, student and Administrator
Second Offense
Loss of access to computers for
remainder of semester or four months,
whichever is longer and out-of-school
suspension for two days and conference
with parent, teacher, student, and
administrator
Third Offense
INTERNET ACCESS
The internet is quickly becoming an integral part
of our world. It is important that ALL students
in Albany County School District #1 learn how
to access the Internet. With your permission, we
will guide your child into the information age by
giving him/her the skills to use this source in a
responsible manner.
As a part of the curriculum, your child will learn
the proper and safe use of the Internet, unless
17
Loss of access to computers for the
remainder of the school year or six
months, whichever is longer and out-ofschool suspension for up to ten days
with possible recommendation for
expulsion
*Note: Breaking of any state or federal law
will automatically be punished as a third
offense, (i.e., the student will lose privileges to
computers for the remainder of the school
year and out-of-school suspension for up to
ten days with recommendation for expulsion.)
Initial offenses that are deemed serious may
be punished as a second or third offense.
6.
LOST AND FOUND
Lost or found textbooks are put in the office.
Other items or clothing etc. are kept in the office
for two weeks. After two weeks, unclaimed
personal items will be disposed of. No students
are allowed to take items from lost and found
without identifying it belongs to them.
LOCKERS AND LOCKS
Lockers are provided for safekeeping of books
and other property needed at school. Each
student will obtain locker and lock combinations
from the office. The sharing of lockers, unless
assigned by the school, is discouraged. These
practices often result in loss of books and
personal property. Students are not permitted to
move into an empty locker. Any material or
locks they put in an unassigned locker may be
confiscated.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
books and other school property, or for other
reasons deemed appropriate by the building
administration.
If a personal lock is placed on a school
locker, the administrator has the right to
use any method necessary to remove the
lock in order to gain access to the school’s
locker.
LUNCHTIME
All Rock River students must remain on campus
during the school day, including lunchtime.
Secondary students are not to be in the
elementary playground on or in the elementary
wings or other unsupervised areas. Students are
allowed in the gym, cafeteria or in the lobby.
Use only the locker assigned to you and
keep it locked at all times.
Do not give your combination to another
person, take another’s combination or
tamper with any other locker.
Do not store valuable items in your locker.
It is not safe. STOLEN PROPERTY
IS THE STUDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY
AND LOSS!
Do not write or mark in or on the lockers.
Any damage to the locker and/or lock
should be immediately reported to the
office. Students who have damaged
lockers will be charged for repair and/or
cleaning.
Lockers are the property of Albany County
School District #1 and students are further
advised that lockers may be inspected at any
time by the administration.
A student’s locker may be opened for
inspection when the administration has
a reasonable suspicion that it may contain
prohibited articles. Prohibited items will be
confiscated and illegal items will be turned
over to the police. Also, locker checks may
be conducted as determined by the
administration in order to recover missing
MEDICATIONS
Parents have the ultimate responsibility for
maintaining their child’s health and well being.
In certain circumstances; however, it will be
necessary for the school to assist the parent in
that responsibility through supervision of selfadministration of medication within the school
setting. When your child must have medication
of any type, including over-the-counter
medicine, during school hours, you have the
following choices:
1. You may discuss with your doctor an
alternative schedule of medication so it can
be given outside of school hours.
2. You may come to school and give it to the
child at the appropriate time.
3. You may get a medication form from the
school and have your physician fill out and
sign the form and then return it to school
with the medication. Forms for over-thecounter medications need only be signed by
the parents, but all medications must be
approved by the principal and/or school
nurse prior to the student being allowed to
self-administer the medication.
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Each medicine to be self-administered by the
student shall only occur under the supervision of
designated school personnel. Designated district
personnel may include school nurse, school
secretaries, school monitors, teachers, substitute
teachers, and the principal.
supplied to the proper school personnel in the
proper container.
PARENT CONTACT
Conferences with parents will be scheduled
periodically during the school year. Teachers are
to contact parents by telephone or request
personal conferences when academic behavior
problems develop.
Neither the District, nor any of its personnel,
shall be responsible for medication selfadministered by a student or administered by the
parent or legal guardian without supervision by
district staff. Likewise, the district and its
personnel will not be responsible for the drug
itself. Supervising personnel will only ensure
that medication is taken in specified dosages at
specified times.
PLAGIARISM
If a teacher suspects a student of plagiarism, the
following procedure will be followed:
1. Upon first concern, the student presents
proof of the work’s originality to the
teacher. If the teacher is not satisfied with
the proof presented, then a review board will
be invoked.
2. A review board consisting of three
secondary teachers and/or administrators
will examine the charge of plagiarism. One
board member will be selected by the
teacher involved; another will be selected by
the student and a third board member will be
selected by the other two board members.
Upon presentation of information from the
teacher, student, and the student’s parents (if
the student desires), the board will make a
ruling as to the question of whether an act of
plagiarism has been committed by the
student.
3. If the board determines that the student’s
work is plagiarized material, consequences
will follow the procedure outlined in the
Discipline Code. In addition, the student
will receive no credit for the plagiarized
work and will forfeit the right to make-up or
redo the work.
The “Request for Supervision of SelfAdministration of Medication at School” form
must be completed and maintained on file with
the school office prior to students being allowed
to take any medication.
Medication, which is to be student-administered
under the supervision of school personnel, will
be in its original pharmaceutical container. If not
in the original container, it shall not be taken.
Medications must remain in the designated
secured area of the school (school office or
nursing office). Students are not permitted to
keep their medicine while at school.
EXCEPTION: Inhalers may be carried by a
student if the “EXCEPTION” has been signed on
the “Request for Supervision of SelfAdministration of Medication” form by the
parent/legal guardian and the physician and is on
file in the school nurse’s office.
A record shall be maintained of each time the
medication is taken, including the child’s name,
medication name and dosage, time, date, and
signature if the person who supervised the selfadministration.
PLANNERS
In fairness to those supervising the selfadministration of medications and for the safety
of your child, this policy must be followed
strictly. We ask this, not to make things difficult
for you, but to insure the health and well being
of all students.
All students will be required to utilize planners
to assist with organizational skills. Rock River
School will provide one planner to each student.
If the student misplaces the planner, (s)he must
take the responsibility to replace it. Students
must utilize the planner as her/his classroom hall
pass in conjunction with the teachers’ classroom
management plan, and they will be evaluated
periodically.
Remember, the only way medication can be
taken at school is with the school medication
form filled out and signed by the parents/legal
guardian and/or physician, and the medication
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Note any disturbing behaviors in your child. For
example, frequent angry outbursts, excessive
fighting and bullying of other children, cruelty to
animals, fire setting, frequent behavior problems
at school and in the neighborhood, lack of
friends, and alcohol or drug use can be signs of
serious problems. Get help for your child. Talk
with a trusted professional in your child’s school
or in the community.
Keep lines of communication open with your
child--even when it is tough. Encourage your
child always to let you know where and with
whom he or she will be. Get to know your
child’s friends.
Listen to your child if he or she shares concerns
about friends who may be exhibiting troubling
behaviors. Share this information with a trusted
professional, such as the school psychologist,
principal, or teacher.
Be involved in your child’s school life by
supporting and reviewing homework, talking
with his or her teacher(s), and attending school
functions such as parent conferences, class
programs, open houses, and PTA meetings.
Work with your child’s school to make it more
responsive to all students and to all families.
Share your ideas about how the school can
encourage family involvement, welcome all
families, and include them in meaningful ways in
their children’s education.
Find out if there is a violence prevention group
in your community. Offer to participate in the
group’s activities.
Talk with the parents of your child’s friends.
Discuss how you can form a team to ensure your
children’s safety.
Find out if your employer offers provisions for
parents to participate in school activities.
PROMOTION STANDARDS 7 - 8 GRADES
Students who are in Grade 7 and 8 shall be
promoted to the next grade when they have met,
or exceeded the following grade standards for a
year’s work. The yearly grade will be the
average of both semester grades.
1.
The student shall have passed three of the
four academic areas of English, Social
Studies, Math and Science.
2. The student shall have passed two of the
three remaining courses of Vocational
Survey, Art/Music, and P.E.
3. The student who has a special education,
Individualized Education Plan (I.E.P.) for a
class(es) shall meet or exceed the goal(s) of
the I.E.P. for each special education class
(s)he is taking. Special education class(es)
will be counted alongside the regular
education classes as stipulated in numbers
one and two above.
REPORT CARDS
Report cards are mailed out every semester. If a
student has unpaid fines, (s)he will not be
allowed to have the report card until those fines
are paid.
SAFE SCHOOLS
Tips for Parents: Parents can help create safe
schools. Here are some ideas that parents in
other communities have tried:
Discuss the school’s discipline policy with your
child. Show your support for the rules, and help
your child understand the reasons for them.
Involve your child in setting rules for appropriate
behavior at home.
Talk with your child about the violence he or she
sees--on television, in video games, and possibly
in the neighborhood. Help your child understand
the consequences of violence.
Teach your child how to solve problems. Praise
your child when he or she follows through.
Help your child find ways to show anger that do
not involve verbally or physically hurting others.
When you get angry, use it as an opportunity to
model these appropriate responses for your
child--and talk about it.
Help your child understand the value of
accepting individual differences.
Action Steps for Students: There is much
students can do to help create safe schools. Talk
to your teachers, parents, and counselor to find
out how you can get involved and do your part to
make your school safe. Here are some ideas that
students in other schools have tried:
 Listen to your friends if they share troubling
feelings or thoughts. Encourage them to get
help from a trusted adult--such as a school
psychologist, counselor, social worker,
leader from the religious community, or
other professional. If you are very
concerned, seek help for them. Share your
concerns with your parents.
 Work with local businesses and community
groups to organize youth-oriented activities
that help your people think of ways to
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ALBANY COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT #1 DOES
NOT CONDONE NOR TOLERATE SEXUAL
HARASSMENT OR DISCRIMINATION BY
EMPLOYEES, STUDENTS, OR NON-EMPLOYEES.
ANY EMPLOYEE OR STUDENT WHO ENGAGES IN
SEXUAL HARASSMENT WILL BE INVESTIGATED
IN A MANNER, WHICH PROTECTS THE
COMPLAINANT AND MAINTAINS
CONFIDENTIALITY TO THE GREATEST EXTENT
POSSIBLE. The district’s complete policy can be
accessed on the district’s website at www.acsd1.org.
prevent school and community violence.
Share your ideas for how these community
groups and businesses can support your
efforts.
Organize an assembly and invite your school
psychologist, school social worker, and
counselor--in addition to student panelists-to share ideas about how to deal with
violence, intimidation, and bullying.
Get involved in planning, implementing, and
evaluating your school’s violence prevention
and response plan.
Participate in violence prevention programs
such as peer mediation and conflict
resolution.
Employ your new skills in other settings,
such as the home, neighborhood, and
community.
Create, join, or support student
organizations that combat violence.
Work with your teachers and administrators
to create a safe process for reporting threats,
intimidation, weapon possession, drug
selling, gang activity, graffiti, and
vandalism. Use the process.
Ask for permission to invite a law
enforcement officer to your school to
conduct a safety audit and share safety tips,
such as traveling in groups and avoiding
areas known to be unsafe. Share your ideas
with the officer.
Help to develop and participate in activities
that promote student understanding of
differences and that respect the rights of all.
Volunteer to be a mentor for younger
students and/or provide tutoring to your
peers.
Know your school’s code of conduct and
model responsible behavior. Avoid being
part of a crowd when fights break out.
Refrain from teasing, bullying, and
intimidating peers.
Be a role model--take personal
responsibility by reacting to anger without
physically or verbally harming others.
Seek help from your parents or a trusted
adult--such as a school psychologist, social
worker, counselor, teacher--if you are
experiencing intense feelings of anger, fear,
anxiety, or depression.
a.
b.
Any student who is subjected to sexual
harassment should report the incident
immediately to the principal of the school, a
teacher, school counselor, or any staff
member. If the complaint is made to a staff
member, the staff member should report it to
the principal, Director of Personnel, or
Superintendent of Schools. All complaints
of sexual harassment will be investigated in
a manner, which protects the complainant
and maintains the student’s confidentiality
to the greatest extent possible.
The principal, the Director of Personnel, or
Superintendent of Schools will investigate
the complaint and recommend immediate
and appropriate corrective action be taken.
Information about the investigation and the
results will be shared with the complainant.
A report will be filed with the
Superintendent of Schools summarizing the
complaint and the action taken.
SMOKING/TOBACCO USE
On December 12, 1990 the Albany County
School Board passed the following tobacco
policy:
“The use and/or possession of tobacco products
by students is prohibited in buildings, in
vehicles, or on property owned or operated by
Albany County School District #1 at any time.
The use of tobacco products by employees,
patrons, and other non-students in buildings, in
vehicles, or on property owned or operated by
District One is also prohibited at any time.”
Punishments for tobacco rule violation in a given
school year are as follows:
First Offense:
Immediate parent notification
Immediate police notification
Possible suspension minimum of 1 day
SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND
DISCRIMINATION OF STUDENTS
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Second Offense:
Immediate parent notification
Immediate police notification
Possible suspension minimum of 4 days.
Third Offense:
Immediate parent notification
Immediate police notification
Possible suspension minimum of 6 days.
Possible referral to School Board with
recommendation for expulsion from the
regular school day for the remainder
of the school year.
SUSPENSION/EXPULSION
School Board policy as follows:
The following shall be grounds for suspension or
expulsion of a child from a public school during
the school year:
a. Continued willful disobedience or open
defiance of the authority of school
personnel.
b. Willful destruction or defacing of school
property.
c. Any behavior which in the judgment of the
Board is clearly detrimental to the
education, welfare, safety, or morals of other
pupils.
d. Torturing, tormenting, or abusing a pupil in
any way; maltreating a pupil or a teacher
with physical violence.
STUDENT PARKING
Students are required to park their vehicles in the
north parking lot. Laramie students are required
to ride the bus, unless given written permission
by the parent to bring a vehicle or ride with
another student. Students that leave their
vehicles at Laramie High School or park at RRS
need to give a vehicle description and license
plate number to the office so that a parking
permit will be sent out for them.
In cases where suspension is imposed, the
following procedure shall be used:
a. Student is suspended; parents are notified
orally immediately if possible.
b. Letter is delivered or mailed to parents.
c. Building administrator may require a
conference with parents before student
returns to school.
STUDENTS – 18 YEARS OLD
Students 18 years old must have an “Age of
Majority” form on file in the office to be allowed
to excuse themselves for absences.
Students are only allowed to excuse themselves
four (4) times a semester. After that you need a
medical excuse from the doctor or a written
excuse from a parent/guardian.
TARDY POLICY
Students are expected to be in the classroom and
seated before the bell rings. Any student
considered tardy by the classroom teacher will be
subject to detention.
In the event of a discipline and/or tardy
infraction, each teacher shall keep track of the
number of instances per student for their
respective classroom. After that number reaches
three for a semester the student shall be issued a
detention notice that is to be served the next
school day. Each additional tardy is another
detention. If the student fails to serve the
detention the student shall serve two detentions.
If the student fails to serve the two detentions,
the student shall be written up for the principal’s
attention. As soon as a particular student reaches
a tally of three detentions for any one class or
any combination of three infractions in various
classes, the student shall be written up for the
disciplinary action. The teacher shall keep an
accurate tally of dates of infractions, detentions
and discipline ISS days served.
STUDENT TRANSPORTAION
Laramie students are expected to ride their
assigned bus. In order for a student to drive to
Rock River School, the school must have a
signed, written parental consent form on file in
the office. No student is allowed to ride either to
or from RRS without parental consent. This
includes driving and/or riding with other students
or adults. We understand that at times Rock
River students will need to ride the bus into
Laramie.
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1.
TELEPHONE
A phone is available before school, after school,
and lunch hour. NOT DURING CLASS TIME!
Exceptions will be made in emergency
situations. Unless it is an emergency, students
will be given a message and allowed to call back
during lunch or study hall.
2.
TRANSFER TO OTHER SCHOOLS
Students who move during the school year
should tell the Office at least two weeks before
they leave. They will receive a check out sheet to
be signed by all their teachers and receive a
grade in each class. They must make sure that all
books, fees/fines, and school materials are
returned and paid in full.
Minor Vandalism shall include such things
as marking desks, books and writing on
walls. For behavior of this type the student
shall be required to make restitution or
repairs as deemed appropriate by the
principal.
Major vandalism such as breaking
windows, doors, causing damage to school
lawn and lands shall be dealt with in the
following manner: any student found to be
taking part in an act of major vandalism to
school property shall be immediately
suspended from school and a parent
conference arranged to discuss the situation.
VISITORS
Requests to have student visitors will be handled
on an individual basis. Students must get
permission from all teachers, and the principal.
Parents are encouraged to stop in and visit with
us any time. Please check in at the office when
you come.
VALEDICTORIAN, SALUTATORIAN AND
SENIOR ADDRESS
Only those students earning a cumulative grade
point average of 3.0 or above may be considered
for the positions of class valedictorian and
salutatorian. If only one student in the
graduating class has a GPA above a 3.0, they
will be valedictorian and salutatorian, respective
of their ranking. If three or more students have
GPA’s above 3.0, the top two students will be
valedictorian and salutatorian. If the top two
students have the same GPA the student with the
highest ACT score will be valedictorian. If no
student in the graduating class has a GPA of 3.0
or above, no valedictorian or salutatorian will be
named. Rather, the senior class, with the class
sponsor and principal’s approval, will elect a
student to give a senior address. The senior
address speech will have to be approved by the
principal two weeks prior to graduation.
SPECIAL NOTE TO THE PARENTS
If you have any questions concerning the Rock
River School handbook, please submit them in
writing to Rock River School, PO Box 128,
Rock River, Wyoming 82083. We appreciate
your comments.
SITE BASE
Mission:
Rock River Schools are committed to
providing quality, holistic instruction that
meets the needs, interests, goals and abilities
of each student.
VANDALISM
Vision:
Providing a rigorous curriculum using
effective teaching skills by empowering
students to communicate effectively, to apply
knowledge, and to be independent in order to
achieve academic, personal and career
success.
The overall condition of our school rests with
each and everyone concerned with Rock River
School, and it will require a 100% team effort to
keep it up. The following are RRS vandalism
regulations:
Vandalism is defined as the wanton, willful
defacing or destruction of any property
belonging to the school, material, building or
grounds. Vandalism shall be categorized into
two major categories:
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