2022-2023
Rush City High School
Student / Parent
Handbook
Please click on the link below to acknowledge receipt of the 2022-2023 Student/Parent handbook.
HIGH SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION’S OFFICE STAFF 5
EXTRA CURRICULAR COACHES/ADVISORS 7
2 HOUR LATE START DAILY SCHEDULE 8
ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY PROCEDURE 8
ASSESSMENT OF STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT 9
ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES/STUDENT ATTENDANCE- 9
EXCUSE FROM PHYSICAL EDUCATION 11
BUSING TRANSPORTATION CHANGES 11
CAP, GOWN, & TASSEL PURCHASE RELATING TO GRADUATION CEREMONY 11
CELL PHONES/ELECTRONIC DEVICES/CHROMEBOOKS 12
CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR INFORMATION 12
CLASS LOAD FOR SENIOR HIGH STUDENTS 12
REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION FROM RUSH CITY HIGH SCHOOL 13
DIRECTORY INFORMATION DECLARED 13
FIRE DRILL/WEATHER PROCEDURES 14
FOOD AND BEVERAGE CONSUMPTION IN THE BUILDING 14
FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM (Teachers might want to mention that not all school lunches are free anymore unless on Free and Reduced school lunch.) 14
LEAVING THE BUILDING DURING SCHOOL HOURS 15
LOCKERS(School and PE Lockers) 15
AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS 17
IS MY CHILD WELL ENOUGH TO GO TO SCHOOL? 17
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION RECOMMENDATIONS 18
NOTICE CONCERNING USE OF PEST CONTROL MATERIALS: 18
PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION 19
REPORT CARDS/PROGRESS REPORTS 19
SCHOOL WITHDRAWALS, TRANSFERS 19
LETTERING RULES AND REQUIREMENTS 20
DANCE AND PARTY REGULATIONS 20
STUDENT DISCIPLINE POLICY 506 20
DETENTION RULES AND PROCEDURES 32
IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION OBJECTIVES AND PROCEDURES 32
STUDENT DRESS AND APPEARANCE 33
STUDENT USE AND PARKING OF MOTOR VEHICLES; PATROLS, INSPECTIONS AND SEARCHES 34
SCHOOL PARKING LOT, DRIVER CONTRACTS AND PASSES 36
GUIDELINES FOR DRIVING SNOWMOBILE TO SCHOOL 36
This handbook is published so that parents, students, and teachers may have information concerning the numerous activities, procedures, and expectations established at Rush City High School. It is our hope that careful reading of this handbook will give you a better understanding of your school, its traditions and regulations. We hope that you will make the greatest possible use of the opportunities available at District #139. Please note that current school board policy will supersede handbook information. All policies are located on our school website.
Welcome students to the 2022-2023 school year! We hope that your summer has been productive and enjoyable and that you are ready to make the most of the academic and extracurricular opportunities available here at Rush City High School. We also hope that you will continue to take pride in this building and help in any way you can to keep it looking as neat and clean as you find it now.
Please take time to read the information in this handbook and share it with your parents. It is your responsibility as a student to understand and follow the guidelines presented here. Everything you find in this handbook is based on the premise of respect for each individual, for property, and for the right of all students to get an education which is our primary purpose.
Have a great school year.
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS
Mrs. Stefanie Folkema Chairperson
Mrs. Teri Umbreit Vice Chairperson
Mrs. Kristin Papke Clerk
Mr. Matt Meissner Treasurer
Mr. Kenneth Lind Director
Mr. Will Schmidt Director
Mr. Brent Stavig, Superintendent of Schools (320) 358-4855
Mrs. Janet Wagener, High School Principal (320) 358-4795
Mrs. Alicia Nelson, Elementary Principal (320) 358-4724
Mr. Lee Rood, Activities & Community Ed Director (320) 358-1265
Mrs. Cathy Monster
Ms. Elisa Vacinek
Mrs. Melissa Wiener
Mrs. Renee Mussetter
Mrs. Kerstin Quigley
Mr. Nathan Sorgert
Ms. Jennifer Spanier
Mrs. Beth Sybrant
Mr. Dirk Anderson Special Education
Mr. Nick Basta ADSIS Behavior Coordinator
Mr. Mark Bingham Mathematics
Ms. Juli Bombalier Physical Education & Health
Mrs. Bernadette Campbell FACS
Mrs. Elizabeth Carpenter English
Ms. Clancy Carey Paraprofessional
Ms. Candi Crippen Paraprofessional
Mr. David Crowell English
Ms. Shelby Cummings Paraprofessional
Mrs. Kristi Davis MTSS Coord./Instructional Coach
Mr. Adam Engel Social Studies
Ms. Cynthia Fiedler Special Education Teacher
Mrs. Ashley Fitcher Spanish
Ms. Jessica Gage School Resource Officer Mr. James Hatz Technology Coordinator
Ms. Sarah Hawn School Psychologist
Mrs. Karissa Hill Nurse Assistance
Mrs. Jaime Holmstrom Instrumental Music
Mr. Jeffrey Jennings Science
Mrs. Kayla Jeska Physical Education,DAPE & Health
Mrs. Maureen Jordan Paraprofessional
Mrs. Carrie Kirchberg Counselor Assistant/Due Process
Mrs. Tami Knudson Science
Mr. Daniel Kuchenbecker Art
Mrs. Holly Leibel ADSIS Reading & ADSIS Behavior
Mrs. Hannah Lindstrom Business
Ms. Alexis Meskill Special Education Teacher
Mr. James Monson Mathematics
Mrs. Cathy Monster Admin. Assistant for AD
Mr. Ben Montzka Vocal Music
Mr. Matthew Morgan Paraprofessional
Ms. Bobbi Jo Muschik Paraprofessional
Mr. Eric Olson Agriculture, Industrial Tech
Mrs. Cassie Peterson Student Support Provider
Ms. Cecelia Peterson Paraprofessional
Mrs. Amy Ramstad Study Hall Coordinator
Mrs. Alicia Reynolds Paraprofessional
Mr. Eric Risland Mathematics/Physical Education
Mrs. Julie Risland Media Paraprofessional
Ms. Mary Rosa Paraprofessional
Ms. Stacey Schultz Nurse
Mrs. Sheila Shykes English
Mrs. Erika Matzke Stoltz Social Studies
Mrs. Darcey Stransky Paraprofessional
Mrs. Annie Sundin Special Education
Ms. Brenda Taylor EBD Paraprofessional
Mr. Eric Telander Science
Mrs. Charlotte Thill Mathematics
Mr. Michael Vaughan Social Studies
Mrs. Elisa Vacinek Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Kari Weileder School Counselor
Mrs. Melissa Wiener Admin Assistant for Principal
Mrs. Kate Wirtz Paraprofessional
CUSTODIANS: Joel Folkema, Bryan Hendricks, Chris Nelson, Michael Ramstad
FOOD SERVICE PERSONNEL: Supervisor - Molly Gotwald, Kara Ffrench, Jayme Reichitzer
BUS DRIVERS: Dawn Nelson, Jeff Titus, Marvin Monster, Karen Barton, Kara Ffrench, Nicole Morales
VAN DRIVERS: Sandy Holmberg
1ST PERIOD 8:10 - 8:59
ADVISORY 9:02 - 9:22
2ND PERIOD 9:26 - 10:15
3RD PERIOD 10:19 - 11:08
JR. HIGH LUNCH 11:08 - 11:33
JR. HIGH 4TH PERIOD 11:37 - 12:26
SR. HIGH 4TH PERIOD 11:12 - 12:01
SR. HIGH LUNCH 12:01 - 12:26
5TH PERIOD 12:30 - 1:19
6TH PERIOD 1:23 - 2:12
7TH PERIOD 2:16 - 3:05
August 29-September 1 Staff Development
August 31 7th Grade/New Student Orientation
September 5 Labor Day - No Classes
September 6 School Opens
October 3 Staff Development
October 20-21 Professional Conventions - No Classes
October 24 Staff Development/PM Conferences
October 27 Evening Conferences
November 10 Quarter 1 Ends
November 11 Staff Development
November 24-25 Thanksgiving Break - No Classes
December 23- January 2 Winter Break - No Classes
January 3 Staff Development
January 16 Martin Luther King Jr. Day - No Classes
January 20 Qtr. 2/Sem. 1 Ends
January 23 Staff Development - No Classes
February 20 President’s Day - No Classes
February 28 Staff Development/PM Conferences
March 2 Evening Conferences
March 13-17 No School / Spring Break
March 30 Quarter 3 Ends
March 31 Staff Development
April 7 No School
May 29 Memorial Day - No Classes
June 4 Commencement/Graduation
June 6 Last Day of School
June 7 Staff Development
November 10, 2022 1st Quarter Ends
January 20, 2023 2nd Quarter/First Semester Ends
March 30, 2023 3rd Quarter Ends
June 4, 2023 Commencement/Graduation
June 6, 2022 4th Quarter/Second Semester Ends
1st Quarter – October 7, 2022
2nd Quarter – December 16, 2022
3rd Quarter – February 17, 2023
4th Quarter – May 5, 2023
First Quarter September 6 - November 10 44 days
Second Quarter November 14 - January 20 39 days
Third Quarter January 24 - March 30 41 days
Fourth Quarter April 3 - June 6 45 days
2022-2023 CLASS OFFICERS(Will update after fall voting)
7th Grade 8th Grade
President: President:
Vice President: Vice President:
Secretary/Treasurer: Secretary/Treasurer:
Student Council: Student Council:
9th Grade 10th Grade
President: President:
Vice President: Vice President:
Secretary/Treasurer: Secretary/Treasurer:
Student Council: Student Council:
11th Grade 12th Grade
President: President:
Vice President: Vice President:
Secretary/Treasurer: Secretary/Treasurer:
Historian: Historian:
Student Council: Student Council:
Seniors Mrs. Matzke Stoltz, Mrs. Weileder, Mrs. Holmstrom
Juniors: Mr. Rood, Ms. Plante, Mrs. Sundin
Sophomores: Mr. Olson, Mrs. Knudson, Mr. Monson, Mr. Engel, Mrs. Lindstrom
Freshmen: Mrs. Fitcher, Mr. Kuchenbecker, Mrs. Campbell, Mr. Risland, Mr. Jennings
8th Grade: Mr. Telander, Mrs. Thill, Mrs. Carpenter, Mr. Bombailer
7th Grade: Mr. Bingham, Mr. Montzka, Mr. Vaughan, Mrs. Shykes, Mrs. Larson
Activities Director Lee Rood
All School Play Rachel Bigelow
Bands Jaime Holmstrom
Baseball Coach Matthew Morgan
Boys Basketball Coach Trygve Thompson
Choirs Ben Montzka
Cross Country Coach Mike Vaughan
Diversity/Inclusion Club Nick Basta
Dungeons & Dragons Club Adam Engel
FFA Eric Olson
Football Coach Mike O’Donnell
GSA Club Nick Basta & Adam Engel
Girls Basketball Coach
Golf Coach Eric Telander
Gymnastics Sam Isackson
Knowledge Bowl Mike Vaughan
Math League Charlotte Thill
Minnesota Honor Society Ashley Fitcher
One Act Play Rachel Bigelow
Softball Coach
Speech Nick Basta
Student Council Erika Matzke Stoltz
Track Coach Mike Vaughan
Volleyball Coach Eric Telander
Wrestling Coach Matthew Morgan
Yearbook
10:10-10:40 2nd hour
10:44-11:14 3rd hour
11:14-11:39 JH Lunch
11:43-12:23 JH 4th hour
11:18-11:58 SH 4th hour
11:58-12:23 SH Lunch
12:27-12:57 5th hour
1:01-1:31 6th hour
1:35-2:05 7th hour
2:09-2:39 1st hour
2:43-3:05 Advisory
The purpose of this procedure is to ensure all students who participate in extracurricular activities are on track to graduate, they are successfully progressing through all of their classes or receiving support, and they are actively working toward academic success in all classes. This procedure is intended to motivate students, promote school connectedness, school spirit, academics, and a positive building climate.
In accordance with Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) rule, any student who is not on track to graduate is ineligible. Students with an individualized education plan (IEP) or 504 plan are eligible if they are making progress toward the goals outlined in their plan.
On a weekly basis student grades will be reviewed by school personnel. If a student has a failing grade in the same course over two consecutive grade checks or their final course grade is an incomplete or an F, they become ineligible. Students may remain eligible by attending at least one Directed Study session every school day until they are passing.
Students who are ineligible will remain ineligible until they satisfy one of the following conditions: A weekly grade check indicates a passing grade for the course. (or) The student provides Mrs. Wiener with a grade report indicating they are passing/passed. (or) Upon completing five consecutive days of directed study upon receiving an incomplete or failing end of term grade.
The expectation for teachers is that grades are updated online weekly. Students are to be patient with teachers regarding grading of assignments. It is acceptable for the grading and online reporting of a grade to take up to five school days.
Directed study sessions will be from 7:15 AM to 8:05 AM and from 3:10 PM to 4:00 PM. Students must be on time, well behaved, and on task the entire period for the session to be considered completed.
Weekly grade reports will be run on Wednesday mornings, ineligible students and their coaches or advisors will be notified throughout the day. Directed study will be required beginning the following day (Thursday) in order for a student to remain eligible. Failure to complete at least one directed study session every school day will result in the student being ineligible until they are passing the class or they complete five consecutive days of directed study; after which they are eligible to participate as long as they complete at least one directed study session per day. Additionally, students who are eligible because they are attending directed studies on a daily basis, must make progress towards passing at each weekly grade check or they become ineligible until progress is made.
ITV, and PSEO courses are subject to this procedure. It is the student’s responsibility to provide the counseling office with weekly grade reports.
For the purpose of this procedure extracurricular activities include: all athletic teams, jazz band, speech, drama, show choir, and knowledge bowl. This procedure does not include vocal and instrumental music performances that are a graded portion of a RCHS course.
Participants in extracurricular activities may be held to additional standards by the coaches or advisers of an activity in addition to this procedure.
If a student is hurt in an accident during school time, she or he must tell her/his teacher right away.
Our high school is a very busy place after school due to the many activities offered. Students are expected to report to their activities at the scheduled time. All students remaining after school should be in the location of the activity scheduled, media center, or in the commons area. Students are allowed to remain at school in the commons areas for access to wifi, collaborative homework projects or activities. At all times students are expected to follow school expectations and behave in a respectful and responsible way. Parents need to know that direct supervision is not provided for students choosing to remain after school that are not in an organized activity. Students violating expectations will be asked to leave school on that day and may lose future privileges of staying after school.
Policy #618, per statute 120B301 (a) & (c), the commissioner with publish a form that will explain the following:
The school board believes that regular school attendance is directly related to success in academic work, benefits students socially, provides opportunities for important communications between teachers and students and establishes regular habits of dependability important to the future of the student. The purpose of this policy is to encourage regular school attendance. It is intended to be positive and not punitive.
Students who miss class to participate in a school sponsored activity, including extracurricular, are not considered absent. If a student misses a regularly scheduled class due to a school sponsored activity, they will be allowed one extra school day to submit assignments, take quizzes, or tests.
Student’s Responsibility
It is the student’s right to be in school. It is also the student’s responsibility to attend all assigned classes and study halls every day that school is in session and to be aware of and follow the correct procedures when absent from an assigned class or study hall. Finally, it is the student’s responsibility to request any missed assignments due to an absence.
Parent or Guardian’s Responsibility
It is the responsibility of the student’s parent or guardian to ensure the student is attending school, to inform the school in the event of a student absence, and to work cooperatively with the school and the student to solve any attendance problems that may arise.
Excused Absences–It is requested that a parent call the high school office to report the absence of a student. Such calls should be made between 7:30 a.m. and 8:10 a.m. At (320) 358-4795. Parents are reminded to notify the school on the mornings when you will be absent. Otherwise, a call will be made to determine if you are absent for a valid reason. A student must be in school no later than 11 a.m. in order to participate in extracurricular and evening activities. These are examples of excusable absences: family emergency, personal illness, immediate support of family, and death in the family.
Upon returning to school after an absence, the student shall report directly to the office with a written excuse signed by a parent or guardian or a parent must call to excuse. This excuse must state the length and reason for the absence. This procedure applies to all students who are enrolled regardless of age. The school will not accept student-written excuses.
Verification of Absences–At irregular intervals the school will verify with parents, doctors, colleges, etc. that the absences are correct as reported by the student.
Unexcused Absences– An unexcused absence is one in which an excuse is provided, but is not acceptable to the county & school administration. Students may receive no credit for any work in classes they have missed during an unexcused absence. A written excuse from the parent does not automatically mean an excused absence. Examples of excuses for absences which will be considered unexcused include; “personal reasons” without additional written or verbal explanation; “working”, “shopping”, “driver’s test or behind the wheel” “hair appointment”; or similar activities which can be scheduled outside of school hours, etc. The final decision in accepting or not accepting an excuse rests with the building principal.
Truancy–A truancy occurs when a student is absent without authority of parents or school. The consequences for truancy include: (1) Make up time missed in detention and (2) Loss of credit for work in classes skipped. Additional truancies will carry increased consequences which may lead to referral to the County Attorney’s Office.
TRUANCY INTERVENTION GUIDELINES
The Chisago County Attorney’s Office is working collaboratively with social services, schools and law enforcement to intervene early in the truancy cycle. Avoiding court by getting help before truancy becomes a problem is the preferred way of handling these issues. However, to ensure compliance with Minnesota law, the Chisago County Attorney’s Office has implemented a countywide Truancy Protocol. It is our goal to keep children in school and build a more educated populace.
DEFINITION OF TRUANT
A child between the ages of 12 and 17 is considered truant if he or she is absent without legal excuse for three or more class periods on three days. Children ages 17 and 18 will be considered truant if they have not lawfully withdrawn from school with their parent’s permission. When a child has three unexcused absences, the school will begin the initial intervention and will notify the parent or guardian that the child is a “continuing truant” under the law. When the child has seven unexcused absences, he/she will be considered “habitual truant” and the student will be referred to the Chisago County Attorney’s Office for referral to Court.
3 Unexcused Absences *School sends a warning letter to families letting them know the student is close to reaching the county definition of truancy which is 5 unexcused absences.
5 Unexcused Absences *School sends another letter notifying families that information was sent to the county and they will be inviting families to a county meeting.
7+ Unexcused Absences *School has to file truancy with the county.
7 - 10 Excused Absences: *School to send a warning regarding excessive absences
*Request for doctor’s notes or nurses assessment for any future absences due to illness
10+ Excused Absences: *School to impose Mandatory Doctor’s Note or Nurse’s Assessment requirement
*Failure to produce a Doctor’s note or Nurse’s Assessment will result in an unexcused
absence
*If absences reach threshold number, referral to the county.
Pre-Excuses – To obtain advance permission for legitimate absence, the student must bring a written request from either a parent/guardian or parent/guardian phone call. Makeup work is the responsibility of the student and must be submitted immediately after the absence.
Family Trips – Per board policy, family trips will be considered an unexcused absence. However, students will be granted limited Excused Absences.(1) To be considered a limited excused absence, the student’s parent or legal guardian may be asked to verify, in writing, the reason for the student's absence from school. (2) A maximum of (5) limited excused days may be used during the school year. Subsequent absences will be unexcused. Families are encouraged to utilize spring break to take family trips.
Makeup Work – Students who have been absent are permitted and expected to make up their work. Arrangements for makeup work must be made with each teacher immediately upon returning to school. A reasonable amount of time is given to the student to make up the work that is missed. A period of two days for each day missed will generally be the rule, unless mutual agreement is made between the student and the teachers. For example, if a student is absent Monday and returns Tuesday, he/she would have Tuesday and Wednesday to make up the work. Please note that the makeup work guidelines do not apply to longer-term activities/projects assigned earlier with a specific due date. It is the student's responsibility to work with his/her instructor to see that the work is completed and submitted in accordance with the instructor’s expectations.
Tardiness – High school gives students the chance to develop habits of punctuality for the working world in which lateness
can mean a reduction in wages or possibly loss of a job. If an instructor detains a student so that he/she may be late for his/her next class, it is the student’s responsibility to secure an E-Hall Pass from his/her previous teacher. Four minutes passing time is allowed between classes. Tardiness is determined by the teacher, except at the beginning of the school day. If you are not in school by 8:10 a.m. or do not get to your first class in time, report immediately to the office for an admit slip. Students who are late to school because of car problems will be given an unexcused absence. Because the district provides bus transportation, students who choose to use alternate means of transportation do so at their own risk.
Unexcused Tardiness – Students who have two or more unexcused tardies in a quarter will be assigned to one hour detention. Excessive tardies will be referred to administration and additional consequences will be given. Students who are late to school because of oversleeping are permitted one excused tardy for this reason during the school year. The excused tardy can be used only for first period. Tardiness beyond the first period will be unexcused. Any further “oversleeps” will also be unexcused.
An excuse from physical education shall be granted only after the instructor has received a certificate signed by a licensed doctor of medicine stating that the pupil is physically unable to take such training. This certificate will be presented to the instructor and to the office. From time to time an individual will be excused for a period or two if a parent's requests in a note.
If a student is detained by a teacher and is late to class, an electronic pass must be submitted from the teacher that has detained him/her. No student will be allowed to leave a class without an electronic pass. If a teacher and the student are unable to use an electronic device, all paper passes must be completely filled out with the exact time, date, and teacher’s signature clearly shown.
The District Office may change transportation routes due to weather, road conditions, etc. If you have questions about transportation, please reach out to Bob Carlson.
Electronic devices may be brought to school. Students must take personal responsibility for all devices brought to school. RCHS is NOT responsible for lost or stolen items.
Rush City High School (RCHS) values a continued commitment to teaching and learning. To that end, the staff of RCHS continually strives to minimize disruptions that may occur during class time. While we support technology and the use of technology, we also recognize the need to take the opportunity to maintain order through the regulation of all electronic devices including cell phones.
First and foremost, the student should always ask permission to use an electronic device prior to actually using it. Students should turn off all electronic devices upon entering the classroom.
Responsible use – Students may have and use electronic devices before and after school, during passing time or lunch, and when the instructor allows the use in their room and/or during their class.
No videotaping or audio recording will be allowed at any time without staff permission and/or written permission if someone else is being recorded.
Consequences will be issued when devices are used inappropriately, cause a disruption to class, or when the teacher did not give permission for the student to use the device. Disruptions or distractions caused by the electronic device may result in the student or phone being sent to the office where the following action will take place:
All consequences are subject to administrative discretion.
Electronic devices may not be returned during class time, on weekends, on holidays and may not be returned prior to the scheduled pickup times. Exceptions may be made for extended breaks and holidays.
School staff will not look through the contents of the electronic device unless there is reasonable suspicion (as determined by high school administration) the device is used in the commission of a crime or to cause disruption to the educational environment.
Refusal to comply with these procedures may result in individual students losing their privilege to bring electronics to school and/or other disciplinary actions as determined necessary by the administration.
Students who have a change of address or telephone number during the school year should have their parents report this change immediately to the office so this information is available in order to have accurate contact information especially in case of an accident or emergency.
Grade 9: Freshman course requirements include: English, Civics, Economics, Science, Math and Physical Education and select courses to fill seven periods. Three math credits are required in senior high.
Grade 10: Sophomores course requirements include: English, American History, Biology, and Health (one semester), and select courses to fill seven full periods. Three math credits are required in senior high. To be considered a Grade 10 student (Sophomore), you must have earned a minimum of four (4) credits in Grade 9.
Grade 11: Juniors course requirements include: English, World History, Chemistry or Physics, and select additional courses totaling at least 4 credits or filling seven periods. Three math credits are required in senior high. To be considered a Grade 11 student (Junior), you must have earned a minimum of 8 credits in Grades 9 & 10.
Grade 12: Seniors course requirements include: English and Social Science and select additional courses totaling either 5 credits or filling seven periods. To be considered a Grade 12 student (Senior), you must have earned a minimum of 14.5 credits in Grades 9-12.
English = 4 credits
Mathematics = 3 credits
Science = 3 credits (Science 9-1 credit; Biology-1 credit; Chemistry or Physics-1 credit)
Social Studies = 4 credits (American History - 1 credit; World History - 1 credit; Economics - 1/2 credit; Civics 1/2 credit; Government/Citizenship - 1/2 credit; Social Problems- 1/2 credit)
Arts= 1 credit
Physical Education = 1 credit TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED TO GRADUATE = 21.5
Health = ½ credit
Electives = to total 21.5 credits
CHROMEBOOKS (School owned - 1:1 Initiative)
In addition to the Electronic Device guidelines above, the school owned Chromebooks and their use are subject to the rules outlined in the Technology Device Loan Agreement and Protection Plan Agreement, both of which must be completed annually prior to receiving a Chromebook.
Any damage or loss of a school issued device must be immediately reported to Mrs. Risland in the Media Center.
No student may leave the building or campus at any time without permission. Student drivers need to bring in everything they need for school. Violations will be treated as truancy.
In compliance with School Board Policy #515, Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records, Rush City Public Schools declare the following information relating to students to be “directory information”: Student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, height and weight, participation in school activities, dates of attendance status, name(s) address, telephone number of student’s parent(s) and other similar information. Height and weight information may be printed in athletic activity programs. Additionally, the school will release upon request the above information regarding students to military recruiters, tech schools, Congressmen, etc., and will include this information in programs, press releases, and other similar information made available to the public. Students and parents have the right to refuse to permit the designation of any or all of the above categories of personally identifiable information as directory information with respect to that student. Students or parents wishing to do so should contact Mrs. Janet Wagener, High School Principal, by September 25, 2021 Students who do not contact the school will automatically be included in the directory information list.
If parents cannot be reached, IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, OR ANY ACCIDENT DEEMED SERIOUS IN NATURE, school personnel will make arrangements to transport the child to an appropriate medical facility. In the best interests of students, it is absolutely vital for parents to complete and sign an EMERGENCY FORM during the first week of school, containing all pertinent names and telephone numbers. Unlisted phone numbers will be kept strictly confidential. Please list persons who will care for the child in case the parents cannot be reached. These are people who are available to get a child in case of emergency or illness and can provide transportation for your child.
You may always seek additional help from your teachers. Arrange a conference with your teacher before or after school or at a time convenient to both of you. A teacher may request a student to stay after school on occasion if it is apparent that the student is having difficulties with his/her work. This is not to be thought of as a punishment, but rather a desire of the teacher to help the student progress academically. Special education services are available to students. For more information, contact the principal, school psychologist or school counselor. A Peer Tutor program has been established and tutors are available to help any student. Requests for tutors may be made through the school counselor or to the Peer Tutor Coordinator(Mr. Basta). Directed studies is available before and after school. See below.
Directed Study is an opportunity for students to receive help with their coursework. Each day, directed study sessions will run from 7:15 AM to 8:05 AM and from 3:10 PM to 4:00 PM in the Media Center. Mrs. Ramstad is available for the morning and Mr. Basta for the afternoon. Directed study is open to all students who would like help regardless of their current performance. We hope students take pride in their academic achievement and use this as a tool to help them excel.
Students who are attending to satisfy the requirements of the academic eligibility procedure must be on time, well behaved, and on task for the entire session in order for their attendance to satisfy the requirements.
SEVERE WEATHER SITUATIONS
School closings will be announced through WCCO Radio (830 AM), WCMP radio (1350 AM & 100.9 FM), WCCO TV (Channel 4), the District Facebook Page, the District website (www.rushcity.k12.mn.us) and School Messenger.
To prevent stains to the carpeting caused by spilled beverages, eating and drinking of beverages will not be permitted in the hallway and classrooms. Water is allowed but for everything else the students should use the commons area for eating and drinking. We hope that the students will take pride in their building and will cooperate in keeping it looking as clean as possible.
School breakfast and lunch will be served each day that school is in session. School breakfast and lunch programs are offered as a service. Students who are lactose intolerant will be offered lactose-reduced milk as a substitute. The Rush City Food Service Program uses a computerized meal accountability system.
How does the computerized system work? - Each student will be issued a PIN (personal identification number) for the breakfast/lunch program. Each student is responsible for memorizing his/her own PIN. Their PIN will be entered into the computer as students pass through the breakfast/lunch line with their menu selection. This system may not be used for ala carte items. Ala carte is a cash basis operation only. This system is based on prepayment. Students must have money in their account PRIOR to purchasing a meal. One breakfast and one lunch per day will be allowed for each student. Students receiving reduced meal benefits also need to prepay into their account. Students cannot charge meals. Students receiving free meals are eligible to receive one breakfast/one lunch per day. Application forms for the Free/Reduced meal program are available in the office.
How do you pay for breakfast/lunch under this system? - You may pay with cash, check or the electronic online option. If you pay by check, do not include any other fees for other school activities - The total amount of the check will be deposited in the student’s account. NO CHANGE will be given back to the students. If you have more than one child in the school system, your deposit will be split among your children’s accounts unless you provide specific instructions on how you want it split. Regardless of how you pay, we will need the following information: Student’s name and parent’s last name, if different from the student’s. Lunch deposits can be made by placing money in the drop box located by the student services window near the office. It's the responsibility of the student and parent/guardian to ensure that there's a positive balance in the lunch account. Students may ask about their balance in the lunch line. Students with a negative account balance may be denied breakfast/lunch until the account is paid or arrangements have been agreed upon with the Food Service Supervisor.
How do we get a refund? - If you move from the school district during the school year, refunds from student meal accounts are available by obtaining a Refund Form from the Student Services Window. Forms must be filled out and signed by the parent/guardian. The District Office, via a check sent to your home, will issue refunds.This system provides our school district with a more accurate account of breakfasts/lunches served and provides families a convenient and protective avenue of breakfast/lunch service. It also eliminates room for thievery and borrowing of lunch tickets. If you have any questions regarding the breakfast/lunch system, please call Molly Gotwald..
What are the breakfast and lunch prices? - Breakfast and lunch prices are outlined below.
Breakfast: Full Price $.90
Lunch: Full Price $2.80
Milk: Full Price $.50
All visitors/non-students that are purchasing a meal will be charged $2.65 per breakfast or $4.65 per lunch.
Unpaid Meal Charges: Please refer to school board policy #534
What if the student does not remember their PIN? - If the student cannot remember his or her PIN, they can ask either at the Student Service Window or the food service staff.
Any gift deliveries, such as flowers, candy, cookies, etc. will be made only during the last half of 7th hour
The 4-point system will be used to determine the high school honor roll. The system is as follows:
Students will be permitted to leave the building during the school day only upon the request of the parent or guardian and upon the approval of office staff. When and if the student returns, he/she must check in with office personnel and receive an electronic pass to class. If a student becomes ill and wishes to go home, the student must: (1) Report to the office and (2) Parent/Guardian must be notified for approval to leave. If a student leaves without notifying the office, it will be considered skipping. Students will not be allowed to go to their vehicles throughout the school day. Students please make sure to grab everything you need from your vehicles and place in your lockers.
Each student will be assigned a locker for his or her own personal use during the school year. All backpacks, purses, blankets, etc. need to be stored in the students locker. Each locker has its own combination lock. Combinations will be provided to students at the beginning of the school year. It is the student’s responsibility to keep the locker combination confidential for security purposes. These lockers are furnished primarily to provide space in which books and outer clothing may safely be kept. The provision of lockers will not automatically ensure the safety of student’s belongings. Carelessness may result in the loss of desirable articles such as clothing or money.
Students will be assigned lockers for multiple school years. Students will be assigned the same locker during their junior or senior high years. Since the students will have the same locker for a longer period of time, it is important he/she keeps the locker in good condition; fines for any damage detected will be the student’s responsibility. Students may anticipate periodic locker checks. Any damage occurring to the combination due to intentional misuse of the locking mechanism will be charged to the student assigned that locker. Students must keep lockers assigned to them unless they obtain permission from the principal’s office to change lockers.
Students are reminded that school lockers are the property of the school district and can be searched at any time, without notice, without student consent and without a search warrant. Personal possessions of the student may be searched as long as reasonable suspicion exists that the search will uncover evidence of a violation of the law or school rules. If a student’s possessions are searched on the basis of reasonable suspicion, notice will be provided to the student unless disclosure would impede an ongoing investigation by police or school authorities. Additionally, students will be asked to remove any items or pictures which are considered inappropriate to the school environment.
Student use of an assigned locker acknowledges awareness and understanding of this policy. Students will be assessed a fine at the end of each school year if they do not get their locker cleaned out and checked or if the lock is missing or broken.
The complete text of policy #502 (Search of student lockers, desks, personal possessions and student’s person) may be found in the Board of Education Policy Manual located in all District Offices.
The Minnesota Association of Honor Societies (MAHS) is affiliated with the nation's premier organization, National Honor Society. It was established to recognize outstanding high school students. More than just an honor roll, MAHS serves to recognize those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. These characteristics have been associated with membership in the organization since its beginning in 1921.
The advisor will request a list of scholastically eligible grade 11 and 12 students before the end of the first quarter of the school year. These students will be informed about the Minnesota Honor Society and selection procedures by the advisor. Scholastically eligible students will be given data sheets for information regarding activities both in and out of school to complete and return to the advisor. The faculty will be given a list of scholastically eligible students and copies of their data sheets. They will rate these students in the areas of leadership, service, and character. This ranking will be from 0 to 4, 4 being the highest. The recommendations of the faculty are then given to the Faculty Council. The Faculty Council shall consist of five voting members, appointed annually by the principal. The chapter advisor is a non-voting member of the Council. Based on the faculty recommendations, the Faculty Council will decide upon the new members. Selection for membership to the chapter is always to be by a majority vote of the Faculty Council. An active member of the Minnesota Honor Society who transfers from this school will be given a letter indicating the status of his/her membership and signed by the principal. An active member of the Minnesota Honor Society who transfers to this school will be automatically accepted for membership in this chapter.The advisor will notify both selected and non-selected candidates by letter.
A letter is awarded only on earning one for the first time. After that, pins or other suitable awards are used. Letter winners must qualify for the award by following the rules established by the State High School League and Rush City High School.
Lost items will be kept in the Principal’s Office or the lost and found table. Those who find such items should turn them in at once. Students may claim lost articles upon proper identification. Unclaimed items will be donated at the end of each school year.
The purpose of administering medications in school is to assist students who require medication to be taken during school hours to maintain an optimal state of health and, therefore, enhance their education program.
All medication will be stored in the health office following state law procedure and will be given under the direction of the school nurse. A parent/guardian must bring the required daily medication to the health office. No medications can be stored in student desks, backpacks or lockers except by arrangement with the school nurse with a medical provider's order. Rescue inhalers, epipens and over-the-counter pain medications may be kept in the student’s locker or on his/her person as indicated by the parent, guardian, medical provider, or school nurse.
Parents/Guardians are required to supply the medicine in the original container labeled by the physician or pharmacy. The container will be labeled with the student’s name, name of medication, dose to be given, frequency or time it is to be given, the name of the prescribing physician and the date of the medication.
LONG TERM MEDICATIONS
Medications prescribed for more than two (2) weeks require a written statement from the physician, who will indicate:
1) The child’s legal name.
2) The name of the medication.
3) The dose (frequency and time of day medication is to be taken).
4) The date (starting and ending) the medication is to be given.
5) The reason the medication needs to be taken (diagnosis).
6) The possible side effects.
This information can be provided using a school medication authorization form (available upon request), or on a form provided by the medical clinic/provider. Information must be updated before the start of each school year. Parents must also sign an authorization for school staff to administer the medication at the appropriate time during the school day, either on the form provided by the medical provider, or on the school's medication authorization form.
SHORT TERM MEDICATIONS
Over-the-counter or prescribed for less than two (2) weeks require a written statement from the parent/guardian giving permission to give the medication in school. The statement must include:
1. The child’s legal name.
2. The name of the medication.
3. The reason for the medication.
4. The dosage (if dosage is greater than manufacturer's recommendation, then a prescription form signed by
your healthcare provider is requested.)
5. The start and ending date the medication is to be given.
6. The time of day the medication is to be given.
7. Parent’s legible signature.
Hearing/Vision: Each school year vision and hearing screening tests are given to children in certain grades. Scores are recorded on health records, and referrals for necessary follow-up for some children are given to parents. Parents are encouraged to watch school newsletters for the dates of these screening tests, and report to the teacher any pre-existing health conditions that may affect the outcome of these tests on that particular day.
CONTAGIOUS ILLNESS
The Minnesota Department of Health has regulations for communicable diseases. If your child contracts any contagious illness such as chicken pox, fifth disease, impetigo, head lice, mononucleosis, conjunctivitis (pink eye), pinworms, Reye’s Syndrome, ringworm, scabies, COVID-19, or strep, please report this to the health office.
Automatic External Defibrillators (AED’s) are located in two areas: in a cabinet next to the principal’s office and near the custodian’s room/food service area in the high school building.
Many parents have questions about when to keep children home or send them to school. The following information is intended to help parents with this decision.
Generally, a student should remain at home if he or she:
1. has a fever of 100° or higher within the past 24 hours.
2. is vomiting or has diarrhea.
3. has any rash that may be communicable (check with a medical provider if unsure).
4. has an uncontrollable cough.
Please call the high school office to inform staff and your student's absence as soon as possible.If you have any questions regarding the above information or your child’s illness, please call the school nurse or your family physician.
Minnesota Statute 1980, Section 123.70 requires that all children who are enrolled in a Minnesota school will be immunized according to current standards.
Proof of immunizations by parents is acceptable. Physician's records will not be required but will be accepted. All parents should keep accurate records of their child’s immunizations.Records of immunizations and/or notarized copy of medical or conscientious objection must be in the health office by the first day of school. Students not current or exempt will be sent home.
Continuous health supervision of children from birth through high school is the aim of those concerned with the health of the school child. It is recommended, not required, that children entering Kindergarten and 7th Grade have a complete medical examination. A physical is required before entering sports in 7th grade and every 3 years thereafter.
HEALTH CONCERNS
If your child has any health concerns, update the school nurse on a yearly basis using the emergency form or by phone call or email. Please notify the health office of any changes during the school year.
Our district utilizes a licensed, professional pest control service firm for the prevention and control of rodents, insects and other pests in and around the district’s buildings.
Their program consists of:
1. Inspection and monitoring to determine whether pests are present, and whether any treatment is needed.
2. Recommendations for maintenance and sanitation to help eliminate pests without the need for pest control
materials.
3. Utilization of non-chemical measures such as traps, caulking and screening.
4. Application of EPA registered pest control materials when needed.
Pests can sting, bite, cause contamination, damage property, and spread disease; therefore, we must prevent and control them. The long-term health effects on children from the application of such pest control materials, or the class of materials to which they belong, may not be fully understood. All pest control materials are chosen and applied according to label directions per Federal law.
An estimated schedule of interior pest control inspections and possible treatments are available for review or copying at each school office. A similar estimated schedule is available for application or herbicides and other materials to school grounds. Parents of students may request to receive, at their expense, prior notification of any application of a pest control material, should such an application be deemed necessary on a day different from the days specified in the schedule. If you have any questions regarding our Pest Management Program or would like a copy of the inspection/treatment schedule, please contact Nathan Sorgert at (320) 358-1393.
The telephone in the office can be used by the students with proper permission. Except in the case of an emergency, telephone usage will be restricted to passing time, lunch, and before/after school. Emergencies include such things as sickness, doctor appointments, etc. Telephones in the classrooms are intended for instructor use only.
All parents of high school students will be invited to the school conferences with the teachers in the Fall and Spring. The purpose of these conferences will be to go over the student’s records, grades, and overall progress. . In addition, parents are encouraged to schedule conferences any time during the year if they have questions, concerns or receive correspondence from the school they would like to discuss in greater detail (letters, discipline reports, report cards, mid-term progress reports, etc.). Teachers may also request an additional conference with parents based on specific concerns.
Students should check the monitor screen in the commons area regularly for items of interest and other pertinent notices. Students must receive permission from the office prior to posting any notices or signs in the building. Posting advertising for non-school functions, those sponsored by out-of-school organizations, is allowed only if prior permission is received from the principal’s office and the poster(s) have been stamped. After an event is over, it is the responsibility of the same students or groups to remove the poster. Posters may be brought in, approved and stamped by office staff after receiving approval from the principal. Any poster or message around the building that does not carry the OK stamp from the principal’s office will be removed. See Policy #505 relating to placing of posters and/or distribution of non school-sponsored materials.
Students are expected to refrain from inappropriate displays of affection in the building, at school activities or on school property. Failure to follow this directive may result in a parent conference and/or school consequences.
Electronic report cards will be available on StudentVue and ParentsVue at the close of the grading period each quarter. Bi-Weekly progress reports will be emailed to parents for each class.
Blue recycling bins are in the hallways and each classroom. These bins are to be used for paper, clean cardboard, and empty bottles and cans. Soiled items being placed in these bins result in all items in the bin being turned to garbage.
Rush City School District is governed by policy. We encourage you to click on the link provided to view our up to date district policies. School Board Policies
The purpose of the school counseling program is to aid the student in the areas of academic, personal/social and career development and make a positive impact on student achievement, attendance and behavior. All students should feel free to contact the counselor for information and assistance.
Students in Grades 7-11 complete class registration in the spring. Their request for classes must be approved by parents and counselors. Students do not select teachers-only classes. Any students desiring a schedule change must contact the counseling office. Course change requests must be made within 4 days at the beginning of each semester. No student will be permitted to drop a year long course unless extreme circumstances, as determined by the counselor, teacher and parent, necessitate a change. Course changes are not guaranteed and will be considered for the following reasons only:
1. Prerequisite has not been met.
2. Student has already received credit for this class(es).
3. Student needs to replace an elective with a required class.
4. Schedule Error: Student has too many classes, not enough classes, or 2 classes during the same hour.
A student who is transferring to another school, must bring a written request signed by his/her parent to the principal’s office. The student must obtain a withdrawal form, have the form filled out by the teachers, return all school books and property, and make sure all fees and financial obligations are paid. The form should then be returned to the Principal’s Office. A student’s records must show withdrawal in accordance with regulations before transcripts will be sent. The school the student is transferring to will send RCHS a records request when the parent enrolls them in another school district.
SKATES/SKATEBOARDS, ETC.
Students are not permitted to bring, to wear and/or use any type of skating device, skateboard or shoes with wheel inserts on inside school property at any time(inside). The reason for this measure is for the safety of students and adults on school grounds.
Student accident insurance is available to purchase. The form is located at the bottom of the Activities/Athletics page on our website.
Daily student announcements will be read each day in first hour. A copy of the daily announcements will also be posted on the school website and shared with all students via shared google docs. There are also important announcements posted on our bulletin screen in the cafeteria.
I. PURPOSE The purpose of this policy is to impart to students, employees and the community the school district’s policy related to the student activity program. Students in extracurricular activities, governed by the Minnesota State High School League, must follow the rules of eligibility as outlined by the League and the local Board of Education.
II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY School activities provide additional opportunities for students to pursue special interests that contribute to their physical, mental and emotional well-being. They are of secondary importance in relationship to the formal instructional program; however, they complement the instructional program in providing students with additional opportunities for growth and development. The addendum, Student Activities: Philosophy and Goals, is included to further clarify policy in this area.
III. RESPONSIBILITY
A. The school board expects all students who participate in school sponsored activities to represent the school
and community in a responsible manner. All rules pertaining to student conduct and student discipline extend to school activities.
B. The school board expects all spectators at school sponsored activities, including parents, employees, and
other members of the public, to behave in an appropriate manner at those activities. Students and employees may be subject to discipline and parents and other spectators may be subject to sanctions for engaging in misbehavior or inappropriate, illegal or unsportsmanlike behavior at these activities or events.
C. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to disseminate information needed to inform students,
parents, staff and the community of the opportunities available within the school activity program and the rules of participation.
D. Those students who participate in Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) activities must also abide by
the league rules. It shall be the responsibility of those employees who conduct MSHSL activities to familiarize students and parents with all applicable rules, penalties, and opportunities. E. The superintendent shall be responsible for conducting an annual evaluation of 510-2 school activity programs and presenting the results and any recommendations to the school board.
1. The student-athlete must meet the requirements for that individual sport.
2. The student-athlete must attend all practices and meets/games unless excused by the coach. Legitimate
absence from school is considered excused.
3. Student-athletes who are injured may letter at the coach’s discretion with the approval of the athletic director.
This applies to those who have not already met their sports requirements.
4. The student-athlete’s contribution to their team may be taken into consideration.
5. The student-athlete must be recommended by the head coach of their sport to the activities director.
Click on the following links for more information:
Athletic/Student Parent Handbook
All after school activities or evening meetings, practices, trips, or social gatherings that involve students and are a school sponsored or supervised activity, must be scheduled and cleared with the building principal.
High school parties may be sponsored by organizations in the school but approval from Mr. Rood and Mrs. Wagener is required. Attendance at parties will be limited to students at Rush City High School, unless guests have been pre-registered in the office (one guest per student). Guests may be invited to the Homecoming Dance and/or the Junior-Senior Prom. Students in grades 7 & 8 are NOT Eligible to attend the Homecoming Dance or the Junior-Senior Prom. Students in Grade 9 may attend the Homecoming Dance and may be invited to the Junior-Senior Prom.
Please note: Any student dancing in a manner which is determined to be inappropriate by chaperones may be asked to leave.
The high school student council is composed of students selected by the student body to represent it in working with the faculty and administration in developing the best school possible. The council will meet regularly under the leadership of the president and advisor. Because the student council represents all students, members of the student body should keep informed regarding its program and make their wishes known through its elected representatives.
I. PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that students are aware of and comply with the school district’s expectations for student conduct. Such compliance will enhance the school district’s ability to maintain discipline and ensure that there is no interference with the educational process. The school district will take appropriate disciplinary action when students fail to adhere to the Code of Student Conduct established by this policy.
II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY
The school board recognizes that individual responsibility and mutual respect are essential components of the educational process. The school board further recognizes that nurturing the maturity of each student is of primary importance and is closely linked with the balance that must be maintained between authority and self-discipline as the individual progresses from a child’s dependence on authority to the more mature behavior of self-control.
All students are entitled to learn and develop in a setting which promotes respect for self, others, and property. Proper positive discipline can only result from an environment which provides options and stresses student self-direction, decision-making, and responsibility. Schools can function effectively only with internal discipline based on mutual understanding of rights and responsibilities.
Students must conduct themselves in an appropriate manner that maintains a climate in which learning can take place. Overall decorum affects student attitudes and influences student behavior. Proper student conduct is necessary to facilitate the education process and to create an atmosphere conducive to high student achievement.
Although this policy emphasizes the development of self-discipline, it is recognized that there are instances when it will be necessary to administer disciplinary measures. The position of the school district is that a fair and equitable district-wide student discipline policy will contribute to the quality of the student’s educational experience. This discipline policy is adopted in accordance with and subject to the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56.
In view of the foregoing and in accordance with Minn. Stat. § 121A.55, the school board, with the participation of school district administrators, teachers, employees, students, parents, community members, and such other individuals and organizations as appropriate, 506-2 has developed this policy which governs student conduct and applies to all students of the school district.
III. AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
A. The School Board. The school board holds all school personnel responsible for the maintenance of order
within the school district and supports all personnel acting within the framework of this discipline policy.
B. Superintendent. The superintendent shall establish guidelines and directives to carry out this policy, hold all
school personnel, students, and parents responsible for conforming to this policy, and support all school
personnel performing their duties within the framework of this policy. The superintendent shall also establish
guidelines and directives for using the services of appropriate agencies for assisting students and parents. Any guidelines or directives established to implement this policy shall be submitted to the school board for approval and shall be attached as an addendum to this policy.
C. Principal. The school principal is given the responsibility and authority to formulate building rules and
regulations necessary to enforce this policy, subject to final school board approval. The principal shall give
direction and support to all school personnel performing their duties within the framework of this policy. The
principal shall consult with parents of students conducting themselves in a manner contrary to the policy. The
principal shall also involve other professional employees in the disposition of behavior referrals and shall
make use of those agencies appropriate for assisting students and parents. A principal, in exercising his or her
lawful authority, may use reasonable force when it is necessary under the circumstances to correct or restrain
a student or prevent bodily harm or death to another.
D. Teachers. All teachers shall be responsible for providing a well-planned teaching/learning environment and
shall have primary responsibility for student conduct, with appropriate assistance from the administration. All teachers shall enforce the Code of Student Conduct. In exercising the teacher’s lawful authority, a teacher may use reasonable force when it is necessary under the circumstances to correct or restrain a student or prevent bodily harm or death to another.
E. Other School District Personnel. All school district personnel shall be responsible for contributing to the
atmosphere of mutual respect within the school. Their responsibilities relating to student behavior shall be as
authorized and directed by the superintendent. A school employee, school bus driver, or other agent of a school district, in exercising his or her lawful authority, may use reasonable force when it is necessary under the circumstances to restrain a student or prevent bodily harm or death to another.
F. Parents or Legal Guardians. Parents and guardians shall be held responsible for the behavior of their children
as determined by law and community practice. They are expected to cooperate with school authorities and to
participate regarding the 506-3 behavior of their children.
G. Students. All students shall be held individually responsible for their behavior and for knowing and obeying
the Code of Student Conduct and this policy.
H. Community Members. Members of the community are expected to contribute to the establishment of an
atmosphere in which rights and duties are effectively acknowledged and fulfilled.
IV. STUDENT RIGHTS
All students have the right to an education and the right to learn.
V. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
All students have the responsibility:
A. For their behavior and for knowing and obeying all school rules, regulations, policies, and procedures;
B. To attend school daily, except when excused, and to be on time to all classes and other school functions;
C. To pursue and attempt to complete the courses of study prescribed by the state and local school authorities;
D. To make necessary arrangements for making up work when absent from school;
E. To assist the school staff in maintaining a safe school for all students;
F. To be aware of all school rules, regulations, policies, and procedures, including those in this policy, and to
conduct themselves in accord with them;
G. To assume that until a rule or policy is waived, altered, or repealed, it is in full force and effect;
H. To be aware of and comply with federal, state, and local laws;
I. To volunteer information in disciplinary cases should they have any knowledge relating to such cases and to
cooperate with school staff as appropriate;
J. To respect and maintain the school’s property and the property of others;
K. To dress and groom in a manner which meets standards of safety and health and common standards of
decency and which is consistent with applicable school district policy;
L. To avoid inaccuracies in student newspapers or publications and refrain from 506-4 indecent or obscene
language;
M. To conduct themselves in an appropriate physical or verbal manner; and
N. To recognize and respect the rights of others.
VI. CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT
A. The following are examples of unacceptable behavior subject to disciplinary action by the school district.
These examples are not intended to be an exclusive list. Any student who engages in any of these activities
shall be disciplined in accordance with this policy. This policy applies to all school buildings, school grounds,
and school property or property immediately adjacent to school grounds; school sponsored activities or trips;
school bus stops; school buses, school vehicles, school contracted vehicles, or any other vehicles approved for
school district purposes; the area of entrance or departure from school premises or events; and all
student’s walking route to or from school for purposes of attending school or school-related functions,
activities, or events. While prohibiting unacceptable behavior subject to disciplinary action at these locations
and events, the school district does not represent that it will provide supervision or assume liability at these
locations and events. This policy also applies to any student whose conduct at any time or in any place
interferes with or obstructs the mission or operations of the school district or the safety or welfare of
students, other students, or employees.
1. Violations against property including, but not limited to, damage to or destruction of school
property or the property of others, failure to compensate for damage or destruction of such property, arson, breaking and entering, theft, robbery, possession of stolen property, extortion, trespassing, unauthorized usage, or vandalism;
2. The use of profanity or obscene language, or the possession of obscene materials;
3. Gambling, including, but not limited to, playing a game of chance for stakes;
4. Violation of the school district’s Hazing Prohibition Policy;
5. Attendance problems including, but not limited to, truancy, absenteeism, tardiness, skipping
classes, or leaving school grounds without permission;
6. Violation of the school district’s Student Attendance Policy;
7. Opposition to authority using physical force or violence;
8. Using, possessing, or distributing tobacco, tobacco-related devices, 506-5 electronic
cigarettes, or tobacco paraphernalia in violation of the school district’s Tobacco-Free Environment Policy;
9. Using, possessing, distributing, intending to distribute, making a request to another person
for (solicitation), or being under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances or look-alike substances;
10. Using, possessing, distributing, intending to distribute, making a request to another person
for (solicitation), or being under the influence of narcotics, drugs, or other controlled substances (except as prescribed by a physician), or look-alike substances (these prohibitions include medical marijuana or medical cannabis, even when prescribed by a physician, and one student sharing prescription medication with another student);
11. Using, possessing, or distributing items or articles that are illegal or harmful to persons or
property including, but not limited to, drug paraphernalia;
12. Using, possessing, or distributing weapons, or look-alike weapons or other dangerous
objects;
13. Violation of the school district’s Weapons Policy;
14. Violation of the school district’s Violence Prevention Policy;
15. Possession of ammunition including, but not limited to, bullets or other projectiles designed
to be used in or as a weapon;
16. Possession, use, or distribution of explosives or any compound or mixture, the primary or
common purpose or intended use of which is to function as an explosive;
17. Possession, use, or distribution of fireworks or any substance or combination of substances
or article prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or an audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration or detonation;
18. Using an ignition device, including a butane or disposable lighter or matches, inside an
educational building and under circumstances where there is a risk of fire, except where the device is used in a manner authorized by the school;
19. Violation of any local, state, or federal law as appropriate;
20. Acts disruptive of the educational process, including, but not limited to, disobedience,
disruptive or disrespectful behavior, defiance of authority, cheating, insolence, insubordination, failure to identify oneself, improper activation of fire alarms, or bomb threats; 506-6
21. Violation of the school district’s Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy;
22. Possession of nuisance devices or objects which cause distractions and may facilitate
cheating including, but not limited to, pagers, radios, and phones, including picture phones;
23. Violation of school bus or transportation rules or the school district’s Student Transportation
Safety Policy;
24. Violation of parking or school traffic rules and regulations, including, but not limited to,
driving on school property in such a manner as to endanger persons or property;
25. Violation of directives or guidelines relating to lockers or improperly gaining access to a
school locker;
26. Violation of the school district’s Search of Student Lockers, Desks, Personal Possessions, and
Student’s Person Policy;
27. Violation of the school district’s Student Use and Parking of Motor Vehicles; Patrols,
Inspections, and Searches Policy;
28. Possession or distribution of slanderous, libelous, or pornographic materials;
29. Violation of the school district’ Bullying Prohibition Policy;
30. Student attire or personal grooming which creates a danger to health or safety or creates a
disruption to the educational process, including clothing which bears a message which is lewd, vulgar, or obscene, apparel promoting products or activities that are illegal for use by minors, or clothing containing objectionable emblems, signs, words, objects, or pictures communicating a message that is racist, sexist, or otherwise derogatory to a protected minority group or which connotes gang membership;
31. Criminal activity;
32. Falsification of any records, documents, notes, or signatures;
33. Tampering with, changing, or altering records or documents of the school district by any
method including, but not limited to, computer access or other electronic means;
34. Scholastic dishonesty which includes, but is not limited to, cheating on a school assignment
or test, plagiarism, or collusion, including the use of picture phones or other technology to accomplish this end;
35. Impertinent or disrespectful words, symbols, acronyms, or language, 506-7 whether oral or
written, related to teachers or other school district personnel;
36. Violation of the school district’s Harassment and Violence Policy;
37. Actions, including fighting or any other assaultive behavior, which causes or could cause
injury to the student or other persons or which otherwise endangers the health, safety, or welfare of teachers, students, other school district personnel, or other persons;
38. Committing an act which inflicts great bodily harm upon another person, even though
accidental or a result of poor judgment;
39. Violations against persons, including, but not limited to, assault or threatened assault,
fighting, harassment, interference or obstruction, attack with a weapon, or look-alike weapon, sexual assault, illegal or inappropriate sexual conduct, or indecent exposure;
40. Verbal assaults or verbally abusive behavior including, but not limited to, use of words,
symbols, acronyms, or language, whether oral or written, that are discriminatory, abusive, obscene, threatening, intimidating, degrading to other people, or threatening to school property;
41. Physical or verbal threats including, but not limited to, the staging or reporting of dangerous
or hazardous situations that do not exist;
42. Inappropriate, abusive, threatening, or demeaning actions based on race, color, creed,
religion, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, national origin, or sexual orientation;
43. Violation of the school district’s Distribution of Non School-Sponsored Materials on School
Premises by Students and Employees Policy;
44. Violation of the school district’s one-to-one device rules and regulations;
45. Violation of school rules, regulations, policies, or procedures, including, but not limited to,
those policies specifically enumerated in this policy;
46. Other acts, as determined by the school district, which are disruptive of the educational
process or dangerous or detrimental to the student or other students, school district personnel or surrounding persons, or which violate the rights of others or which damage or endanger the property of the school, or which otherwise interferes with or obstruct the mission or operations of the school district or the safety or welfare of students or employees.
VII. DISCIPLINARY ACTION OPTIONS
The general policy of the school district is to utilize progressive discipline to the extent reasonable and appropriate based upon the specific facts and circumstances of student 506-8 misconduct. The specific form of discipline chosen in a particular case is solely within the discretion of the school district. At a minimum, violation of school district rules, regulations, policies, or procedures will result in discussion of the violation and a verbal warning. The school district shall, however, impose more severe disciplinary sanctions for any violation, including exclusion or expulsion, if warranted by the student’s misconduct, as determined by the school district. Disciplinary action may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following:
A. Student conference with the teacher, principal, counselor, or other school district personnel, and verbal
warning;
B. Confiscation by school district personnel and/or by law enforcement of any item, article, object, or thing,
prohibited by, or used in violation of, any school district policy, rule, regulation, procedure, or state or federal law. If confiscated by the school district, the confiscated item, article, object, or thing will be released only to the parent/guardian following the completion of any investigation or disciplinary action instituted or taken related to the violation.
C. Parent contact;
D. Parent conference;
E. Restorative Practice to assist with the correction of behavior: Project, mentoring, shadowing, etc.
F. Removal from class;
G. In-school suspension;
H. Suspension from extracurricular activities;
I. Detention or restriction of privileges;
J. Loss of school privileges;
K. In-school monitoring or revised class schedule;
L. Referral to in-school support services;
M.. Referral to community resources or outside agency services;
N. Financial restitution;
O. Referral to police, other law enforcement agencies, or other appropriate authorities;
P. A request for a petition to be filed in district court for juvenile delinquency adjudication;
Q. Out-of-school suspension under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act;
R. Preparation of an admission or readmission plan; 506-9
S. Saturday school;
T. Expulsion under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act;
U. Exclusion under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act; and/or
V.. Other disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the school district.
DISCIPLINARY GUIDELINES
For each misbehavior in the following matrix there are specific consequences listed for first, second, third, and fourth offenses. Suspensions or expulsions may result in consequences that carry over into the following year.
The disciplinary matrix is intended to be used as a guideline for consequences. Administration may, at their discretion, deviate from the consequences outlined. The following represent the majority of violations that occur in schools. The list, however, does not necessarily include all violations which may occur. Other behaviors will be handled in an appropriate manner. Significant disruptive behaviors that interfere with the educational process or the operation of the school may result in suspension, expulsion, or exclusion. The following guidelines pertain to students in school, on district property, in a district vehicle, or while at school activities, on or off site. The MSHSL rules and consequences are in addition to these rules and consequences. Illegal activities will be reported to the proper authorities.
Two major suspensions (5-10 days) will warrant consideration for expulsion.
Consequences shown as * will have disciplinary action to include student conference and parent notification, and may include, but are not limited to parent conference, restitution, detention, assignment of community service, loss of privileges, exclusion from extracurricular activities, and/or up to one day of in school or out of school suspension.
Consequences shown as ** will have disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.
VIOLATION | 1st OFFENSE | 2nd OFFENSE | 3rd OFFENSE | 4th OFFENSE |
Academic Dishonesty – Obtaining, giving, using, information that distorts or can distort the true evaluation of what a student knows or has achieved. | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | ** |
Aggravated Assault-Committing an assault which inflicts great bodily harm upon another person. | 5-10 day susp. | ** | ** | ** |
Alcohol-Possession,use,or being under the influence of any alcoholic product while on school grounds/time or at school sponsored activities. | 5-10 day susp. | ** | ** | ** |
Assault (Verbal/Physical)-Doing an act with intent to cause fear in another, immediate bodily harm, death or intentionally inflicting or attempting to inflict bodily harm upon another person. | 1-10 day susp. | 5-10 day susp. | ** | ** |
Bomb Threat – Intentionally giving false alarm of a bomb. | **
| ** | ** | ** |
Bullying/Harassment-Participating in, or conspiring for others to engage in harassing or bullying acts that injure, degrade, or disgrace other individuals. Includes racial and sexual harassment. | 1-10 day susp.
| 5-10 day susp.
| **
| **
|
Dangerous, Harmful, Nuisance Substances-Possession, sale(or intent to sell), distribution or use on or off school premises/time of any controlled substances as defined in Minnesota Statute 152.02. | 5-10 day susp.
| **
| **
| **
|
Chronic Violation of School Rules & Regulations- Continuous refusal to follow established school rules, regulations, and/or procedures. | ** | **
| **
| **
|
Defiance of Authority-Willful refusal to follow legal direction/order given by a staff member . | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | ** | ** |
Disorderly Conduct – Engaging in offensive, obscene, or abusive language or in boisterous and noisy conduct tending to arouse alarm, anger, or resentment in others, or is disruptive to the school climate. | 1-5 day susp.
| 1-10 day susp.
| **
| **
|
Disrespectful Language/Conduct-Comments and/or conduct directed toward any school employee which demonstrates a lack of respect. The use of profanity. | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | 5-10 day susp. |
Disruptive Behavior-Actions which interfere with effective operations of the school. | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | 5-10 day susp. |
Dress and Grooming – Clothing must meet the guidelines of the dress code and be free of obscene, offensive, discriminatory, drugs, alcohol, chemical or gang symbols. | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | ** |
Driving, Careless or Reckless – Driving on school property in such a manner as to endanger persons or property. | * | 1-10 day susp. | ** | ** |
Fighting-Any form of combat where blows are exchanged is prohibited, regardless of who initiated the fight. This prohibition includes hitting, slapping, pulling hair, biting, kicking, scratching or any other acts in which a student inflicts or attempts to inflict bodily harm on another person. | 1-10 day susp.
| **
| **
| **
|
Fires and False Fire Alarms-Arson-The intentional destruction or damage to any school building or property by means of fire or explosives. | 1-10 day susp. | ** | ** | ** |
Forgery/Signature Falsification-Falsifying signature or date and/or refusal to give proper identification when requested to do so by a staff member. | * | 1-5 day susp.
| 1-10 day susp. | ** |
Gambling-The playing of a game of chance for stakes. | * | 1-5 day susp. | 5-10 day susp. | ** |
Leaving School Grounds-Leaving school grounds during school hours without proper clearance. | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | 5-10 day susp. |
Photography–Taking videos or photos of students /staff at school without their written permission is prohibited unless it is part of an official school assignment. | 1-10 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | ** | ** |
Pornography – Possessing or distributing pornographic material. | 1-10 day susp. | ** | ** | ** |
Possession/Use/Distribution of Weapons on School Property-Students may not bring, possess, or store a gun or any other dangerous weapon or facsimile (look-alike) in school, in a school vehicle, or on school property including vehicles parked in the school parking lot. Weapons also include knives, chains, as well as other devices which could cause bodily harm or injury. Pocket knives should not be carried to school. | ** | ** | ** | ** |
Retaliation – Any negative actions directed towards a student or staff member because they reported or discouraged inappropriate behavior. | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | ** |
Robbery/Extortion-The obtaining of property from another where his/her consent was induced by use of force or a threat of force. | ** | ** | ** | **
|
Skipping Class- Absent from class but not leaving school grounds. Not in assigned class and no permissions given. | * | 1-5 days susp | 1-10 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. |
Symbolic Expressions of intolerance or those that may be interpreted as such including but not limited to the swastika, confederate flag and/or gang representations (bandanas, colors, etc.) are not allowed. | *. | 1-10 day susp. | ** | ** |
Tardiness, Excessive | * | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-5 day susp. |
Terroristic Threat – Threatening, directly or indirectly, to commit any crime of violence with the intent of terrorizing another person. | 5-10 day susp. | ** | ** | ** |
Theft-The unauthorized taking of the property of another. | 1-10 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | ** | ** |
Tobacco/E-Cigs - Possession or use of any tobacco, electronic cigarette, or a look-alike product by a student while on school grounds/time or at school sponsored activities. | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. |
Trespassing/Unauthorized Use of School Property-The unauthorized/illegal use of school property for non-school sponsored activities. | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | ** |
Unauthorized Distribution-Distribution or possession of literature on or near school property or inflammatory, libelous, slanderous, or otherwise unauthorized material. | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | ** |
Verbal Abuse/Gestures-Threatening language, vulgar/profane language, inappropriate gestures/remarks | * | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. |
Willful Damage of School Property- Any student who willfully cuts, defaces, or otherwise injures in any way any property, real or personal belonging to the school district is liable to suspension or expulsion and the parent or guardian shall be liable for all damages caused by their child. | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | ** |
Willful Damage to Property of Staff Members and Others-Any student who willfully cuts, defaces, or otherwise injures in any way any property, real or personal belonging of a staff member is liable to suspension or expulsion and the parent or guardian shall be liable for all damages caused by their child. | *
| 1-5 day susp.
| 1-10 day susp.
| **
|
Willful Disobedience-Refusal to follow school rules, regulations and procedures. | * | 1-5 day susp. | 1-10 day susp. | **
|
CHEMICAL USE/MOOD-ALTERING CHEMICALS: - Whether you are in sports or not, there are school consequences for chemical use.
A. PHILOSOPHY AND PURPOSE - The Minnesota State High School League recognizes the use of
mood-altering chemicals as a significant health problem for many adolescents, resulting in negative
effects on behavior, learning and total development of each individual. The misuse and abuse of
mood-altering chemicals for some adolescents affects extracurricular participation and development of related skills. Others are affected by the misuse and abuse by family, team members or other
significant persons in their lives.The close contact in MSHSL activities of advisors and coaches provides them with a unique opportunity to observe, confront and assist young people. The MSHSL, therefore, supports education and awareness training in adolescent chemical use problems including the symptomatology of chemical dependency and special issues affecting League activities for administrators, athletic directors, coaches, advisors, participants and their families.
B. RULE - During the calendar year, regardless of the quantity, a student shall not: (1) use or possess a
beverage containing alcohol; (2) use or possess tobacco including e-cigarettes ; (3) use or consume, have in possession, buy, sell, or give away any controlled substance; or (4) use or consume, have in possession, buy, sell or give away products containing or products used to deliver nicotine, tobacco products and other chemicals.
• The rule applies to the entire calendar year.
• It is not a violation for a student to be in possession of a controlled substance specifically
prescribed for the student’s own use by his/her doctor.
C. CATEGORIES AND PENALTIES, MSHSL ACTIVITIES - School activities are divided into two
categories by the Minnesota State High School League. Category l activities are athletics, speech, and one act play activities that have a regularly scheduled season of interscholastic contests. Category II. activities are all other school-sponsored activities including fine arts activities, such as, all school play and music activities. A student who participates in both Category I and Category II activities shall serve the penalty prescribed for that Rule 3 violation in both Category I and Category II activities in which the student participates.
Each advisor and/or coach of these activities and clubs will provide the administration with a list of those activities where students are making a public appearance representing Rush City High School. This list of activities will be the basis for withholding students from participation while they are serving their suspension penalty (i.e., events not eligible to participate in). Just as students will be withheld from interscholastic competition, students who are suspended because of use of chemicals will also be restricted from other school sponsored activities, such as school dances and parties.
In addition to fine art activities, Rush City High School expands Category II (loss of eligibility to participate) to include all school activities and clubs where students represent the high school including homecoming , prom and graduation ceremony.
VIOLATION OF RULE 3 - PENALTIES FOR CATEGORY l ACTIVITIES
A. First Violation
1. Penalty: After confirmation of the first violation, the student shall lose eligibility for the next two (2) consecutive interscholastic events or two (2) weeks of a season in which the student is a participant, whichever is greater. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a participant in a treatment program.
2. Assistance:
a. The school will provide the information about the effects of misuse or abuse of
mood-altering chemicals to the student.
b. When appropriate, the school will refer the student to a community agency or a
professional individual outside the school for assessment of potential chemical
abuse or misuse.
B. Second Violation
1. Penalty: After confirmation of the second violation, the student shall lose eligibility for the
next six (6) consecutive interscholastic events in which the student is a participant or three
(3) weeks, whichever is greater. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a
participant in a treatment program.
2. Assistance:
a. The school will provide the information about the effects of misuse or abuse of mood-altering chemicals to the student.
b. When appropriate, the school will refer the student to a community agency or a
professional individual outside the school for assessment of potential chemical
abuse or misuse.
C. Third Violation
1. Penalty: After confirmation of the third or subsequent violations, the student shall lose
eligibility for the next twelve (12) consecutive interscholastic events in which the
student is a participant or four (4) weeks, whichever is greater.
2. A student who chooses to become a participant in a treatment program may become eligible for
participation after a minimum period of six weeks after entering treatment if all of the following conditions are met:
a) The student is assessed as chemically dependent,
b) enters treatment voluntarily, and
c) the director of the treatment center certifies that the student has successfully completed the
treatment program.
d) The treatment option cannot be used for the first or second violation. Successful completion of a chemical dependency treatment program will satisfy only the most recent violation. Any other violations for which the penalty has not been satisfied must still be served in full.
D. Cumulative Penalties:
Penalties shall be cumulative beginning with the student’s first participation in a school activity and
continuing through the student’s high school(7-12) career.
E. Denial Disqualification:
A student shall be disqualified from all interscholastic athletics for nine (9) additional weeks beyond the student’s original period of ineligibility when the student denies violation of the rule, is allowed to participate and then is subsequently found guilty of the violation.
VIOLATION OF RULE 3 - PENALTIES FOR CATEGORY II ACTIVITIES:
A. First Violation
1. Penalty: After confirmation of the first violation, the student shall lose eligibility for the next two (2) school- sponsored Category II. events or four (4) weeks whichever is reached first. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a participant in a treatment program.
a. The school will provide information about the effects of misuse or abuse of
mood-altering chemicals to the student.
b. When appropriate, the school will refer the student to a community agency or
Professional individual outside the school for assessment of potential chemical
abuse or misuse.
B. Second Violation
1. Penalty: After confirmation of the second violation, the student shall lose eligibility for the
next six (6) school-sponsored events in which the student is a participant or twelve (12)
weeks whichever is reached first.
a. The school will provide information about the effects of misuse or abuse of
mood-altering chemicals to the student.
b. When appropriate, the school will refer the student to a community agency or
Professional individual outside the school for assessment of potential chemical
abuse or misuse.
SEXUAL/RACIAL/RELIGIOUS HARASSMENT/VIOLENCE AND HAZING:
A student shall not engage in sexual, racial or religious harassment or sexual, racial, religious violence or hazing during the school year or any portion of an activity season which occurs prior to the start of the school year or after the close of the school year.
Sexual, Racial, Religious Harassment and Hazing Violations: Penalty for Category I Activities: Sexual, Racial, Religious Harassment and or Hazing Violations.
PENALTIES FOR CATEGORY I ACTIVITIES
A. First Violation:
1. Penalty: The student shall lose eligibility for the next two(2) consecutive interscholastic
contests or two(2) weeks, 14 calendar days, of a season in which the student is a participant, whichever is greater.
B. Second Violation:
1. Penalty: The student shall lose eligibility for the next six(6) consecutive interscholastic contests
or three(3) weeks, 21 calendar days, whichever is greater, in which the student is a participant.
C. Third or Subsequent Violations:
1. The student shall lose eligibility for the next twelve(12) consecutive interscholastic contests or
four(4) weeks, 28 calendar days, whichever is greater, in which the student is a participant.
D. Progressive Penalties: Penalties for sexual harassment violations shall be progressive beginning with the
first violation and continuing throughout the student’s high school career. Penalties shall be served consecutively.
PENALTIES FOR CATEGORY II ACTIVITIES:
A. First Violation
1. Penalty: After confirmation of the first violation, the student shall lose eligibility for the next two (2) school- sponsored Category II. events or four (4) weeks whichever is reached first. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a participant in a treatment program.
B. Second Violation
1. Penalty: After confirmation of the second violation, the student shall lose eligibility for the
next six (6) school-sponsored events in which the student is a participant or twelve (12)
weeks whichever is reached first.
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY/CHEATING
Definition: The act of willfully obtaining, giving, or using information on a test or assignment that distorts the true evaluation of what a student knows or has achieved. This includes but is not limited to: copying, allowing someone to copy your work, sharing assessment questions or answers in writing, verbally, or electronically, or plagiarism (submitting another person’s work as your own).
Violation: Students found to be cheating will be subject to all appropriate discipline procedures of the Rush City School District, including, but not limited to, reduction in grades, removal from class, suspension, exclusion and expulsion. An 0/F grade may be assigned for the test or work in question. Students who are permanently removed from class will receive an F for that term of the course. Academic dishonesty is also a MSHSL rule violation.
Student Responsibilities:
Riding a school bus is a privilege. In order to maintain this privilege, students must follow all bus rules, respect the driver and other passengers, and maintain a safe environment at all times.
No bus passes are allowed. Please understand that it is critical that we have consistent and accurate information on the location of all riders at any given time. This is why all students are required to ride the bus they are assigned to, as well as get on and off at their designated stop location. For the safety of all, we do not allow students (families) to alter these plans. Thank you for understanding that we cannot honor requests for bus passes.
A. SCHOOL BUS RULES
The following rules are in place on each bus for the student’s safety.
1. Immediately follow the directions of the driver.
2. Sit in your seat facing forward.
3. Talk quietly and use appropriate language.
4. Keep all parts of your body inside the bus.
5. Keep your arms, legs and belongings to yourself.
6. No fighting, harassment, intimidation or horseplay.
7. Do not throw any object.
8. No eating, drinking or use of tobacco, drugs, or look alike devices.
9. Do not bring any weapons or dangerous objects or look alikes on the school bus.
10. Do not damage the school bus.
B. RULES AT THE BUS STOP
1. Get to your bus stop five minutes before your scheduled pickup time. The school bus driver will not wait for late students.
2. Respect the property of others while waiting at your bus stop.
3. Keep your arms, legs and belongings to yourself.
4. Use appropriate language.
5. Stay away from the street, road or highway when waiting for the bus.
6. Wait until the bus stops before approaching the bus.
7. After getting off the bus, move away from the bus.
8. If you must cross the street, always cross in front of the bus where the driver can see you. Wait for the driver to signal you before crossing the street.
9. No fighting, harassment, intimidation or horseplay.
10. No use of alcohol, tobacco, drugs or look alike devices.
C. DISCIPLINARY ACTION
1st offense - warning from the bus driver
2nd offense - driver sends a referral to HS principal. Depending on behavior, meeting with the principal but may result in a 5 day suspension from riding the bus
3rd offense -Detention but may result in a 10 day suspension from riding the bus
4th offense -School Suspension may result in a 20 day suspension from riding the bus
5th offense - may result in a suspension from riding the bus for the remainder of the school year.
D. OTHER DISCIPLINE
Based on the severity of a student’s conduct, more serious consequences may be imposed at any time.
Depending on the nature of the offense, consequences such as suspension or expulsion from school may also
result from school bus/bus stop misconduct.
E. VANDALISM/BUS DAMAGE
Students damaging school buses will be responsible for the damages. Failure to pay such damages (or make
arrangements to pay) within two weeks may result in the loss of bus privileges until damages are paid.
Any student with unserved detention period(s) may not participate in extracurricular activities until ALL detentions have been served.
a. Each detention must be served within two days of its assignment (counting the day
detention is assigned as the first day). Detention periods must be served consecutively.
b. Any variation from this time schedule must be requested from and approved IN ADVANCE
by the principal.
5. The following consequences will occur if a student shows up late or forgets/refuses to report for detention:
a. One period of detention is added for the first day in which the student does not report. No
participation in extracurricular activities will be allowed.
b. Another period of detention will be added on the second day of no-show. No participation in extracurricular activities will be allowed.
c. After the third day of not reporting, the student will be placed on suspension the following
school day, unless an alternative plan is set up with the high school principal. Parents will be notified. The same consequences will apply if the student does not report the fifth day. No participation in extracurricular activities will be allowed. Assigned detention periods will not be satisfied by the suspension and still must be served.
d. Any student who continues to refuse to serve detention after five days will be placed on
suspension with parental conference.
e. Students having unserved detention periods and/or assigned detention after regular
after-school detention has ended for the school year must serve remaining time at a
make-up day scheduled after school ends. Those students who do not report on that day
must make arrangements with the office to serve during the summer before the next school
year begins. Unserved detention time at the start of the next school year can be basis for
Suspension.
6. Students must bring work in sufficient quantity to keep them occupied the entire period. Students not
bringing work will not be admitted or an alternative task could be assigned. This will be up to the supervisor or principal.
7. No listening to headphones will be allowed. Talking to another student, sleeping and leaving the room during
the period is also not allowed.
8. Students violating any of the detention rules will be asked to leave and no credit will be given for the period
regardless of the amount of time already passed.
9. A parental conference will be scheduled to consider alternative measures for any student who accumulates
an excessive number of detention periods.
Students can be suspended from the regular school program only through the procedures outlined in the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act of 1974 as amended. Rather than “out-of-school suspension” in some cases, the principal will assign an “in-school suspension”. Suspended students are to report to the main office or with Mrs. Risland to receive work and be assigned a location to serve their day (s) of suspension.
While suspended, in “in-school suspension” the student will work on class work assigned by the classroom teachers. The student’s physical movement would be restricted to the “in-school suspension” area and all social contacts provided by the normal school would be taken away. Students in “in-school suspension” will eat lunch in the location they were assigned to serve the suspension or in the main office.
INSTRUCTION:
Prior to the student beginning to serve the time assigned in “in-school suspension,” all of the student’s classroom teachers will be notified of the suspension and are requested to provide the office with the student’s assigned course work for duration of the suspension. Instructors are urged to make every effort to directly relate all assignments to the unit of study in progress in the regular classroom during the student’s suspension.
OBJECTIVES:
1. To reduce the number of suspensions.
2. To diminish the number of students repeating certain offenses.
3. To eliminate student satisfaction with being sent home; students suspended because of attendance problems
often consider an “out-of-school suspension” a reward rather than a punishment.
4. To provide direct supervision while being suspended.
5. To provide an opportunity for keeping up with class work while being suspended.
6. To provide an opportunity to learn skills that can help improve behavior.
Whenever it is necessary for students to travel for school events, including extracurricular, or on school time, all students must be transported via the school arranged transportation . Students transporting other students to participate in a school activity will not be approved, with the exception of off campus practice sites if school transportation is not provided. In the event of this exception, students must seek prior administrative approval and written parental permission submitted (forms may be obtained in the HS office). This approval includes any students riding with other students to practice. Students riding home from a school-sponsored event with their parents or another relative must bring a signed note from their parent/guardian prior to departure for the event.
I. PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to enhance the education of students by establishing expectations of dress and grooming that are related to educational goals and schools standards.
II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY
A. The policy of the school district is to encourage students to be dressed appropriately for school activities and
in keeping with community standards. This is a joint responsibility of the student and the student’s parent(s)
or guardian(s).
B. Appropriate clothing includes, but is not limited to, the following:
1. Clothing appropriate for the weather.
2. Clothing that does not create a health or safety hazard.
3. Clothing appropriate for the activity (i.e., physical education or the classroom).
4. Face Masks worn under COVID guidance and following the school policy
C. Inappropriate clothing includes, but is not limited to, the following:
1. “Short shorts,” skimpy tank tops, tops that expose the midriff or private body areas, and other
clothing that is not in keeping with community standards.
2. Clothing bearing a message that is lewd, vulgar, or obscene.
3. Apparel promoting products or activities that are illegal for use by minors.
4. Objectionable emblems, badges, symbols, signs, words, objects or pictures on clothing or jewelry
communicating a message that is racist, sexist, or otherwise derogatory to a protected minority
group, evidences gang membership or affiliation, or approves, advances, or provokes any form of religious, racial, or sexual harassment and/or violence against other individuals as defined in ISD #139 Policy 413.
5. Any apparel or footwear that would damage school property. 504-2
6. Wearing items that aren’t considered apparel:Flags
D. Appropriate hats and hoods can be worn in the school building but it is left up to each classroom teacher on if they allow it in their classrooms.
E. The intention of this policy is not to abridge the rights of students to express political, religious, philosophical,
or similar opinions by wearing apparel on which such messages are stated. Such messages are acceptable as
long as they are not lewd, vulgar, obscene, defamatory, profane, or do not advocate violence or harassment
against others.
F. “Gang,” as defined in this policy, means any ongoing organization, association, or group of three or more
persons, whether formal or informal, having as one of its primary activities the commission of one or more
criminal acts, which has an identifiable name or identifying sign or symbol, and whose members individually
or collectively engage in or whose members engaged in a pattern of criminal gang activity. “Pattern of gang
activity” means the commission, attempt to commit, conspiring to commit, or solicitation of two or more
criminal acts, provided the criminal acts were committed on separate dates or by two or more persons who
are members of or belong to the same criminal street gang.
G. Apparel depicting current or former students is not allowed
III. PROCEDURES
A. When, in the judgment of the administration, a student’s appearance, grooming, or mode of dress interferes
with or disrupts the educational process or school activities, or poses a threat to the health or safety of the
student or others, the student will be directed to make modifications or will be sent home for the day.
Parents/guardians will be notified.
B. The administration may recommend a form of dress considered appropriate for a specific event and
communicate the recommendation to students and parents/guardians. C. Likewise, an organized student
group may recommend a form of dress for students considered appropriate for a specific event and make such
recommendation to the administration for approval.
I. PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines for use and parking of motor vehicles by students in school district locations, to maintain order and discipline in the schools, and to protect the health, safety, and welfare of students and school personnel.
II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY
The policy of this school district is to allow the limited use and parking of motor vehicles by students in school district locations. The position of the school district is that a fair and equitable district-wide student motor vehicle policy will contribute to the quality of the student’s educational experience, will maintain order and discipline in the schools, and will protect the health, safety, and welfare of students and school personnel. This policy applies to all students in the school district.
III. DEFINITIONS
A. “Contraband” means any unauthorized item possession of which is prohibited by school district policy
and/or law. It includes, but is not limited to, weapons and “look-alikes,” alcoholic beverages, controlled
substances and “look-alikes,” and other materials belonging to the school district, and stolen property.
B. “Reasonable suspicion” means that a school official has grounds to believe that the search will result in
evidence of a violation of school district policy, rules, and/or law. Reasonable suspicion may be based on a school official’s personal observation, a report from a student, parent, or staff member, a student’s suspicious behavior, a student’s age and past history or record of conduct both in and out of the school context, or other reliable sources of information.
C. “Reasonable scope” means that the scope and/or intrusiveness of the search is reasonably related to the
objectives of the search. Factors to consider in determining what is reasonable include the seriousness of the suspected infraction, the reliability of the information, the necessity of acting without delay, the existence of exigent circumstances necessitating an immediate search and further investigation (e.g., to prevent violence, serious and immediate risk of harm, or destruction of evidence), and the age of the student.
D. “School district location” means property that is owned, rented, leased, or borrowed by the school district for school purposes, as well as property immediately adjacent to such property that may be used for parking or gaining access to such property. A school district location also shall include off school property at any school-sponsored or school-approved activity, event, or function, such as a field trip or athletic event, where students are under the jurisdiction of the school district.
E. “Inappropriate displays” includes objectionable emblems, symbols, signs, words, objects or pictures in or on a vehicle located on school property communicating a message that is racist, sexist, or otherwise derogatory to a protected minority group, evidences gang membership or affiliation, or approves, advances or provokes any form of religious, racial or sexual harassment and / or violence against other individuals as defined in ISD #139 Policy 413.
IV. STUDENT USE OF MOTOR VEHICLES IN SCHOOL DISTRICT LOCATIONS
Students may use motor vehicles on the high school campus during the school day only if permission has been granted to the student by the High School Principal or the principal’s designee.
V. STUDENT PARKING OF MOTOR VEHICLES IN SCHOOL DISTRICT LOCATIONS
A. Students are permitted to park in a school district location as a matter of privilege, not of right. Students
driving a motor vehicle to a high school campus may park a motor vehicle in the parking lot designated for
student parking only. Students will not park vehicles in driveways, in staff parking, on private property, or in other designated no parking areas.
B. When there are unauthorized vehicles parked on school district property, school officials may:
1. Move the vehicle or require the driver or other person in charge of the vehicle to move it off school
district property; or
2. If unattended, provide for the removal of the vehicle, at the expense of the owner or operator, to the
nearest convenient garage or other place of safety off of school district property.
VI. PATROLS, INSPECTIONS, AND SEARCHES School officials may conduct routine patrols of school district locations and routine inspections of the exterior of the motor vehicles of students. In addition, the interiors of motor vehicles of students in school district locations may be searched when school officials have a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover a violation of law and/or school policy or rule.
A. Patrols and Inspections School officials may conduct routine patrols of student parking lots and other school
district locations and routine inspections of the exterior of the motor vehicles of students. Such patrols and inspections may be conducted without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant.
B. Search of Interior of Student Motor Vehicle The interiors of motor vehicles of students in school district
locations, including glove or trunk compartments, may be searched when school officials have a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover a violation of law and/or school policy or rule. The search will be reasonable in its scope and intrusiveness. Such searches may be conducted without notice, without consent, and without a search warrant. A student will be subject to withdrawal of parking privileges and to discipline if the student refuses to open a locked motor vehicle under the student’s control or its compartments upon the request of a school official.
C. Prohibition of Contraband, Inappropriate Displays and Interference with Patrols, Inspections, Searches,
and/or Seizures A violation of this policy occurs when students display inappropriate emblems, symbols, signs, words, objects or pictures, and / or store or carry contraband in motor vehicles in a school district location or interfere with patrols, inspections, searches, and/or seizures as provided by this policy.
D. Seizure of Contraband If a search yields contraband, school officials will seize the item and may turn it over to legal officials for ultimate disposition when appropriate.
E. Dissemination of Policy A copy of this policy will be printed in the student handbook or disseminated in any
other ways which school officials deem appropriate. The intention of this policy is not to abridge the rights of students to express political, religious, philosophical, or similar opinions through displays on which such messages are stated. Such messages are acceptable as long as they are not lewd, vulgar, obscene, defamatory, profane, derogatory or do not advocate violence or harassment against others.
All texts are furnished by the school district. A charge will be made by the individual teachers for any loss of books or for wear beyond normal use. It is recommended that all textbooks are covered. Students will be required to pay the full cost of replacement of any lost book or book damaged beyond use.
All visitors to the building, (including parents), must report to the office, sign in and wear a visitor’s badge while in the building. Students are not permitted to bring visitors (friends/relatives) to school to attend classes during the day, including lunch time. The complete text of Policy #903 (Visitors to School District Buildings and Sites) may be found in the Board of Education Policy Manual located in all District offices.