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Jr/Sr High Student-Parent Handbook

 

Introduction:

This handbook has been prepared so that students and their parents/guardians/guardians may become familiar with the rules, regulations, and procedures of River Valley Junior and Senior High School.  Each of you is responsible for knowing the contents of this manual.  Our school is similar to many other groups and organizations that we encounter during the lifetime in that we have rules and regulations to help guide us so that we may progress in an orderly fashion.  As a citizen of this school, students are expected to follow the rules that are established for the welfare of the entire student body.  Be proud of your school.  Take care of it, and feel free to make suggestions for improving it.  We ask that you and your parents/guardians/guardians read this handbook carefully and keep it on hand for future reference. The school reserves and retains the right if necessary to modify the rules or regulations contained within this handbook. If you have any questions regarding any of the information in this handbook or any other part of our school programs, please contact us.  Best wishes for the coming year.

 

Lines of Communication:

When you have questions about your child or an issue you wish to discuss, the following is an appropriate line of communication:

1.  The Teacher – If your concern involves a teacher or your child’s progress in school, request a meeting with the teacher.

2.  The Principal – If you feel the teacher was unable to help you, talk to your school principal.

3.  The Superintendent – If your problem is not handled to your satisfaction by the above persons, you may call and request a conference with the Superintendent.

4.  The Board of Directors – Parents/guardians/guardians may request to address the Board in open or closed session by submitting a written request to the Superintendent stating the problem and details.

 

Student Rights and Expectations:

Each student has the right and shall have the opportunity to use school as a means for self-improvement and individual growth.  In doing so the student is expected to conduct one's affairs in such a manner as to assure other students the same opportunities without restricting or otherwise inhibiting their individual and collective rights.  River Valley believes all students can learn and to afford the greatest opportunity for all students, each student must accept and abide by the following responsibilities:

 

A) To observe the constitutional rights of other individuals.   

B) To respect the inherent human dignity and worth of every individual.

C) To be informed of and adhere to school policies, rules, and regulations.

D) To dress, appear, and behave in a manner conducive to the educational environment and that meets reasonable standards of health, neatness, cleanliness and safety

E) To maintain the best possible level of academic achievement with reasonable effort.

F) To refrain from libel, slanderous remarks and obscenity in verbal and written expressions and gestures.

G) To dissent regarding school rules and policies only within the framework of channels established for such action, and listed in this booklet.

H) To bring matters of student activities, curriculum, discipline, and instruction to the attention of the teacher or sponsor, then to the principal.

 

HOMELESS CHILDREN AND YOUTH

A homeless child is defined as a child or youth between the ages of 5 and 21 who lacks a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence and includes a child or youth who is living on the street, in a car, tent, or abandoned building or some other form of shelter not designed as a permanent home; who is living in a community shelter facility; or who is living with non-nuclear family members or with friends, who may or may not have legal guardianship over the child or youth of school age.  For any help concerning homeless issues, please contact the River Valley homeless coordinator at the high school at 372-4656 and at the elementary at 447-6318.

 

MULTICULTURAL AND NONSEXIST EDUCATION  (Board Policy 603.4)

The education program is free of discrimination and provides equal opportunity for the students.  The education program will foster knowledge of and respect and appreciation for the historical and contemporary contributions of diverse cultural groups, as well as men and women, to society.  Special emphasis is placed on Asian Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans and persons with disabilities.  It will also reflect the wide variety of roles open to both men and women and provide equal opportunity to both sexes.

SCHOOL OFFICES

 

River Valley CSD Superintendent              . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        Correctionville               372-4420

RV Jr.-Sr. High School (Gr. 7 - 12)           . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        Correctionville               372-4656

      High School Principal                          . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                                            372-4656

      Guidance Office                                 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                                            372-4656

      Activities Director                              . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                                            372-4656

      Kitchen                                              . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                                            372-4656

River Valley Elem. (Gr. K -6)                  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        Washta                         447-6318

Bus Barn                                                . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            Washta                     447-6243

 

Office Hours:         8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

 

Messages for Students:

1.  Emergency—to the person immediately

2.  Non-emergency—between classes

 

SCHOOL HOURS:

1.  Students shall only be in the building from 7:40 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. unless under the supervision of a faculty member.  Doors may be locked until 7:40 a.m.

2.  Teachers—8:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

3.  Offices—8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

 

BELL SCHEDULE:

                                                Period 1          8:30 - 9:10          

                                    Period 2          9:13 - 9:53          

                                    Period 3          9:56 - 10:36         

                                    Period 4          10:39 - 11:19

                                    Period 5          11:22 -12:02

                                               Period 6              12:05 - 1:10

                                                                               12:02 - 12:27  Lunch 12:30 - 1:10 Class

                                                            12:05 - 12:45  Class 12:45 -1:10  Lunch

                                    Period 7          1:13 - 1:53

                                    Period 8          1:56 - 2:36

                                               Advisory                  2:39 - 3:00

                                               Period 9            3:00 - 3:30

 

CLOSING OF SCHOOL:

Decisions will be made prior to 7:00 a.m. in most cases and announced over the following radio and television stations:

KCHE Radio - 1440 AM                                      KMEG-TV – Channel 14                    

KCHE Radio – 92.1 FM                                       KCAU-TV- Channel 9                        

KTIV-TV - Channel 4                                           SNOWCAP notifies Area Media

 

Closing of school due to road conditions cancels all school activities for that day, including practice sessions, scheduled games and events.  An exception might be scheduled tournament games to be played at out of district sites.

 

 

 

Section II:  DAILY OPERATION

GENERAL BUILDING WIDE RULES:

 

1. Students are to enter and exit the school by way of the front doors.  All other exits are for emergency use only.
2. Student conduct rules pertain to all school events, athletic events, fine arts events, and school sponsored events, on or away from campus.  All school personnel have supervisory authority over students.
3. Students are not allowed to leave the school during lunch periods, without the prior approval of the principal.  Students not wishing to participate in the hot lunch program may bring a sack lunch.
4. Students may go to vehicles or the parking lot during school hours—only with permission from office.
5. Students may only use school issued padlocks on gym and hallway lockers. 
6. Students will not be allowed to have visitors with them during the regular school day.

7)    School computers are not to be used for student/personal e-mail during the school day.  Students must have staff supervision to use e-mail before and after school for personal use. Students are not to establish personal Internet accounts on school computers.  Students will not download anything (programs/games/instant messaging, etc.) onto school computers without permission of the instructor.

8)   Students may only access the Internet only under the supervision of a faculty member.

9)   The weight room may only be used under the direct supervision of a faculty member.

10) Street shoes are not allowed on the gym floor, including sneakers that are worn outside as casual shoes. Physical Education students and athletic team members will need to supply a pair of appropriate shoes reserved for gym use only.

11) Study halls:

       Students are responsible for bringing enough work each day to remain constructively engaged the entire period.   Students who do not do so may lose various privileges at the discretion of the study hall teacher.  Privileges that      may be withheld include, but are not limited to; media center access, computer access, and study hall speaking.

12)  The sidewalk approaching to the school doors must remain clear before, during and after school.  Students are not to loiter in this area.  

 

LOCKERS:  (Board Policy 502.5 and 502.8)

 

Student lockers are the property of the school district.  Students shall use the lockers assigned to them by the school district for storing their school materials and personal belongings necessary for attendance at school.  It shall be the responsibility of each student to keep their assigned lockers clean and undamaged.

 

School district property is held in public trust by the board.  School district authorities may, without a search warrant, search a student, student lockers, personal effects, desks, work areas or student vehicles based on a reasonable suspicion that a board policy, school rule or law has been broken.  The search shall be in a manner reasonable in scope to maintain order and discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the safety and welfare of students, employees and visitors to the school district facilities.

 

Students should not bring personal items of value to school.  Valuable personal items needed for a class shall be kept in the office.  Lasers are not allowed in school or on the busses.  Paint balls, paint ball projectiles or launchers, and toys are not allowed.  Students are responsible for their own items while at school. 

 

ELECTRONIC DEVICES:

Students will not be able to use any electronic devices that could detract from or interfere with the learning atmosphere of the school (pagers, radios, cassette/CD/Mp3 players, electronic games, laser pointers, ipods, etc.). The use of personal laptop computers and hand held organizers must be approved by building administration and are subject to the same rules as all school computer users. 

                Cell phones may not be used without permission.  

                The following rules will apply:

                1^st offense – Student’s phone will be delivered to the office and held till the end of day.

                2^nd offense - Student’s phone will be delivered to the office and student will have a lunch                 detention.

 

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES: 

 

Students are required to be in good health, as certified by their physician, prior to admission into school.  Thereafter, the board retains the authority to deny continued enrollment if the student has not complied with the minimum immunization requirements as stated by the State Department of Health and to require at any time a certification of good health for any student.

Students at risk for anaphylactic shock must contact the school nurse for the health plan and procedure.

 

STUDENT INJURY OR ILLNESS AT SCHOOL:

 

• When a student has been ill with a fever, vomiting, and/or diarrhea, we recommend that the parents/guardians keep the child home for another 24 hours.  Sending a child to school too soon could risk a relapse or infect others.
• When a student becomes ill or is injured at school, the student’s parents/guardians shall be notified by the school nurse or the principal’s office right away after these individuals are aware of the incident.
• The school district will not be responsible for medical treatment of an ill or injured student, but may have authorized school personnel present administer emergency or minor first aid if possible.  An ill or injured child will be turned over to the care of the parents/guardians, the parents/guardians’ designee, or qualified medical personnel as quickly as possible.        
• It shall be the responsibility of the principal or the school nurse to file an accident report with the   superintendent within 48 hours after the student is injured at school.
• Parents/guardians shall be required to complete a medical emergency authorization form indicating the procedures to be followed, if possible, in an emergency involving their child.  It shall be the responsibility of the parents/guardians to provide the school district with updated information on the medical authorization form.

 

CHILD ABUSE:  (Board Policy 402.2)

All teachers and administrators of the district are by law considered mandatory reporters of alleged child abuse that occurs in the home environment.  The definitions of child abuse are namely:  physical abuse, sexual abuse and neglect, and are directed at the “person responsible for the care of the child.”  For alleged abuse by school personnel, the school nurse should be notified.

 

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION TO STUDENTS: 

• Students may be required to take medication during the school day.  Medication shall be administered only by the school nurse or a qualified designee.  A qualified designee is a person who has been trained under the State Department of Health guidelines.
• No medication will be administered without written authorization from the parent and the child’s physician. A written record of the administrative procedure must be kept for each child receiving medication.
• Medication on school premises shall be kept in a locked container in a limited access storage space.  Only appropriate personnel shall have access to the locked container.

 

PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS:

Parents/guardians and guardians requesting PRESCRIPTION medication to be given to their student during school time must comply with the following:

1.     A WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION BY A LICENSED MEDICAL PROVIDER.

2.     A SIGNED AUTHORIZATION FROM THE PARENTS/GUARDIANS OR GUARDIAN.

3.     ANY AND ALL MEDICATION MUST BE IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER.

4.     ADEQUATE INSTRUCTIONS MUST BE WRITTEN AND FILED WITH THE BUILDING PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE.

5.  MEDICATION WILL BE ADMINISTERED ONLY BY A DESIGNATED           EMPLOYEE IN EACH BUILDING WHO HAS BEEN TRAINED FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF SAID MEDICATION.

Students taking NON-PRESCRIPTION medication during school hours must do the following:

1.  Signed authorization from parents/guardians or guardian.

1. Adequate instructions must be written or filed with the school office.

TELEPHONE:

• To eliminate class interruptions, we ask that parents/guardians call the principal’s office and leave a message for the student.  Students may be called to the phone at the discretion of the office.
• Students are NOT to use the school phones without permission. 

 

EMERGENCY DRILLS:

Periodically, the school will hold fire, tornado, and other emergency drills.  At the beginning of each semester, teachers will notify students of the procedures to follow in the event of a drill.  Emergency procedures and proper exits will be posted in each room.  Students are to respond quickly, quietly, and calmly during drills or emergencies.  Students are to remain with their class so attendance may be taken.  Students are required to cooperate with and participate in all drills.

 

HOT LUNCH:

River Valley Junior and Senior High School operates a split lunch hour with half of the students eating lunch and half of the students still in class.  To eliminate distractions and disruption to the students still in classes, all students eating lunch will remain in the commons.  If a student needs to see a teacher during this period, they are to have a pass signed by the teacher. Hours for breakfast at the high school shall be from 7:40 a.m. until 8:20 a.m. on all full days of school.  Breakfast is available to high school students at both building sites.  Students are reminded that a clean lunchroom is not only necessary for health reasons, but it is also a reflection on the school and you as an individual.  No food items are to be taken from the lunchroom. The parents/guardians can send any amount of money with the student and it will be deposited in their lunch account.  The system will notify the student when their account is down to the amount necessary for two lunches.  This will give the student a couple of days to bring a check from home to place in their account.  For the students’ protection, the ticket can only be used once for breakfast and once for lunch unless approved by the student to the person running the system. 

 

CLOSED CAMPUS:

The lunch periods are considered portions of the school day and within school hours.  This means students will need to obtain permission from the high school principal prior to leaving campus during the lunch period.  Students are not required to participate in the school lunch program.  Students may bring a sack lunch.  During semester testing, students who meet certain requirements may have open campus privileges.

 

OPEN NIGHT: 

                Wednesdays have been designated as open night by the school district.  No group activities will be held      after school on Wednesdays, on Sundays, or on holidays at the school without the permission of the        superintendent.  A student may stay after school on Wednesday with a teacher upon written or oral       notification by a parent/guardian.

 

FUND RAISERS:

Sponsors of groups that wish to run fundraisers must request and get building administration approval. Fundraisers must be for educational purposes. 

 

RENAISSANCE:

                All high school students are eligible for the incentive of Renaissance if certain criteria are earned and maintained.  Attendance, discipline, and academic progress will be determining factors in qualifying for Renaissance.  Additional information may be obtained from the Renaissance sponsor(s) and/or the office.

 

JUICE MACHINE: (NOTE: Violation of the provisions below) may result in the juice machine being turned off.)

The student council juice machine will be in operation under the following rules:

1.     The office will not be responsible to make change or return lost money.

2.     Student areas of consumption: Morning – Commons/After School - Commons

3.     Students are expected to return refundables to depository.

4.     Proper care and use of the juice machine will be expected.

5. NO SNACKS OR  BEVERAGES IN LOCKERS OR OTHER BUILDING AREAS.

6.     Other areas and times may be designated by the Principal.

7.     Students may NOT purchase juice in between classes.

VEHICLES/PARKING:

Students may not drive motor vehicles during school hours except by permission of the principal.  The high school principal has authority to establish reasonable parking regulations.  Students parking in violation of regulations may have their cars towed away at their expense.  Students may not go to vehicles or parking lot during school hours without permission from the office.

 

BUS POLICY:

Rules Governing Pupils Riding School Buses- Students are under the authority of the bus driver at all times and shall respond to his/her directive in a courteous manner.  While on the bus students should observe the same conduct as in the classroom.  Do not eat or drink on the bus.  Do not be destructive.  Stay seated in your seat.  Keep head, hands, and feet inside the bus.

 

All students will be required to have a note signed by parents/guardians/office to ride a bus that is not their regular assigned bus.

 

                Please remember the following basic rules for riding River Valley School Buses:

1. Get on the bus quietly                                            C. Sit in your assigned seat
2. Keep your hands and comments to yourself       D.Keep the bus clean

 

Consequences Regarding Violation of Rules While on the Bus. The rules are published above and are set forth primarily for the safety of all riding the school buses.  If a student is found in violation of the rules governing conduct while riding a River Valley school bus and a complaint is filled by the bus driver, the following action will be taken.  In case of a serious violation, steps 1 and/or 2 may be waived.

 

Step I:  Bus driver will turn in a discipline form to the principal.  The student will meet with the principal.  The parent/guardian will be notified by a letter and/or a phone call.  The student will be given an assigned seat on the bus and will practice proper bus behavior.

 

Step II:  The student will not be allowed to ride the bus for a period of up to three days and must be transported to their attendance center by their parents/guardians/guardians at their expense during the period of suspension.  Parents/guardians/guardians will be notified by a letter and phone call.

 

Step III:  Student will not be allowed to ride the bus for the remainder of the school term and must be transported by the parent/guardian to school.  Punishment of the third offense, the loss of riding privileges, may be appealed to the Board of Education.  Parents/guardians/guardians will be notified by a letter and phone call.

 

                

               PORNOGRAPHY: 

A student may not bring pornography into the school nor may they access pornography on the Internet.  Students who do so will be placed on the discipline code ladder and have technology privileges removed for a period of time to be determined by the principal.

 

COMPUTER USE POLICIES:

River Valley High School provides numerous computers in classrooms, labs, and the media center.  These computers are available for a variety of offline (word processing) and online (Internet) student uses, but are primarily intended for academic research.

 

Teachers will provide clarification of computer use standards and will guide students toward appropriate materials.  Although students will be under teacher supervision most of the time they are using district computers, it is not possible to constantly monitor individual students and their use of the computers.

 

Computer files may be treated like school lockers.  Administrators may review files and communications to insure that students are using computers responsibly.  Within reason, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored.

 

The following are not permitted on district computers during school hours:

Instant messaging, Facebook, Myspace, Chat, E-mail, Games and other activities at the discretion of the principal

 

The following are not permitted on district computers at any time:

            Accessing, sending, or displaying offensive or sexually explicit messages or images

            Using obscene language

            Harassing, insulting, or attacking others

            Damaging computers or peripheral devices

            Employing computers for commercial purposes

            Using another’s password

            Changing computer settings (e.g. screen saver, renaming icons)

            Trespassing in, or disrupting another’s folders, work or files

            Intentionally wasting resources (e.g. ink, paper)

            Using material obtained online without proper citation

            Downloading or uploading of files to the Internet without instructor permission

            Other activities at the discretion of the principal

 

In addition, if a student gains access to any service via the Internet that has a cost involved, the River Valley School District will not be responsible for these costs; rather, the student or student’s parents/guardians/guardian will be responsible for these costs.

 

Consequences for violation of the above rules may fall in a range from detention to suspension, at the discretion of the Principal.

               

ADVISORY/TARGET:

The main goal of the Advisory Program/Target (during a designated period) is to create a setting in which each student has time to meet with an assigned faculty member. 

 

MEDIA CENTER:

The following rules will apply:

1.     Students may do textbook study, written assignments, leisure reading, or research.

2.     Students are to report to study hall first - all students will return to study hall 5 minutes before the end of the period.

3.     Students may sign out from the media center to go to the restroom with permission.

Checkout Periods—Books:  one week/three weeks; FINES:  $.05 per school day.   All media center fines or lost item charges must be paid by the end of the quarterly grading period or media center privileges will be suspended.  Loss of a book or magazine will result in charges equal to its replacement cost.

 

STUDY HALL POLICIES:

1.     Students should report to assigned seats for attendance.  All passes will be honored one at a time after attendance has been taken.  All students should sign out and in when entering or exiting the study hall.

2.     Students are expected to bring all materials with them to study hall.  If all homework is completed, bring a book, magazine, or other materials.

3.     Bring all passes with you and place on teacher’s desk at the beginning of the period.  You are not permitted to sign-out of study hall to get a pass…it is your responsibility to obtain a pass (i.e. to the computer lab) from a teacher before you go to study hall.

4.     No sign-outs are allowed during the first or last 3 minutes of study hall (attendance is taken & when all students with passes return to study hall).  Everyone needs to sign out and in on the study hall sheet as well as listing departure and arrival times.

5.     Study halls are to be QUIET. 

6.     Games (including card games), inappropriate conduct, etc. are not allowed.

7.     Sign-outs during study hall are limited to one female and/or one male at a time with a five minute limit. Passes may be issued to restrooms. 

8.     Those sent back from the media center for disciplinary reasons will lose the privilege to go there for one week.

Section III:  STUDENT ATTENDANCE 

 

COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE/TRUANCY: (Board Policy 501.3 & 501.10; Ia Law Code 299.1A)

A child who has reached the age of six and is under sixteen years of age by September 15th is of compulsory attendance age.  Each child of compulsory attendance age is required to attend school for at least 173 days each school year.  Any child who fails to attend school for at least 173 days, without reasonable excuse for the absence, shall be defined as truant.  The school principal is required by law to report truant students of compulsory age and their parents/guardians or legal guardians to the County Attorney when the student is in attendance less than 173 days without reasonable excuse.  A person who does not attend a public school, an accredited nonpublic school, competent private instruction in accordance with the provisions of Ia Law Code chapter 299A, an alternative school, adult education classes, or who is not employed at least twenty hours per week shall not receive a motor vehicle operator’s license until age eighteen.  A person under age eighteen who has been issued a motor vehicle operator’s license who does not attend a public school, an accredited non-public school, competent private instruction in accordance with the provisions of IA Law Code chapter 299A, an alternative school, or adult education classes, shall surrender the license and be issued a temporary restricted license under section 321.215.

 

The appropriate steps for dealing with student absences are as follows:

1.     Parents/guardians are to call the school to report their child will be absent prior to 9:15 a.m. on the morning of the absence, explaining the reason and length of time the child will be absent, if known.

2.     If no phone call is received, the building secretary will phone parents/guardians/guardians and document appropriate information. An absence will be permanently recorded as unexcused unless the parent contacts the school by phone or a signed parental note (indicating the date(s) and reasons for absence) is provided to the office within 48 hours of the absence. 

3.     At 4 unexcused absences (9 periods = 1 day), parents/guardians/guardians will receive notification from the principal.

4.     At 6 unexcused absences (9 periods = 1 day), the principal will notify parent/guardianss.  School officials may request a doctor’s excuse to be furnished in reference to the student’s illness (a home visit by the school nurse to evaluate the student may also take place).

5.     At 8 unexcused absences (total periods), administrative actions may be taken as needed such as contacting the county attorney, loss of class credit, pursuing expulsion proceedings, or other actions as deemed appropriate.

6.     If the student is of compulsory age, the county attorney will notify a mediator.

7.     If the student is of compulsory age, the mediator will contact the parents/guardians/guardians of the truant student and schedule a meeting to develop a contract to resolve the issue of truancy.

8.     If the student is of compulsory age and the contract is not followed, prosecution follows.

Students absent from school without the permission of parents/guardians and school authorities, or having an excuse not acceptable to school administration are considered truant. ANY STUDENT WHO LEAVES SCHOOL WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM THE OFFICE AND WITHOUT SIGNING OUT OF THE BUILDING WILL BE TRUANT FOR THAT PORTION OF THE DAY MISSED (this includes skipping individual classes). In all cases, parents/guardians or guardians and the school counselors will be notified of all truancies occurring during the school day.  Students who fail to use proper sign out procedures will be considered truant.  Students who are truant will serve a one day in-school suspension.  Habitual truancies (more than one) may be considered discipline code violations and appropriate consequences will apply.

 

EXCUSED ABSENCES:     (Board policy 501.9)              

Examples of excused absences are as follows:

1.     Illness (doctor’s excuse at principal’s request)

2.     Recognized religious observances

3.     Funerals

4.     Medical or dental appointments (doctor’s excuse)

5.     School field trips are not considered absences.

Absences that do not fall within the categories listed above will be considered unexcused unless approved by the principal.  While parents/guardians/guardians have the rights to determine whether or not a student will miss school, SCHOOL OFFICIALS HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF DETERMINING IF THE ABSENCE WILL BE EXCUSED OR UNEXCUSED.  Absences which are unexcused are those which have not been properly excused by the parent/guardian AND school officials. 

MAKE-UP WORK:

Schoolwork missed because of absences must be made up within two times the number of days absent (not to exceed 10 days) beginning the day the student returns to school.  Time allowed for make-up work may be extended at the discretion of the classroom teacher.  It is the responsibility of the student to initiate a procedure with the teacher to complete missed work.

 

TARDY TO CLASS:

Students are expected to transfer between classes during the passing times.  Tardy is defined as not being present in the classroom by the end of the second bell.  If a student is more than 10 minutes late to a class, it shall be recorded as an absence.  An accumulation of three (3) unexcused tardies to an individual class will result in an unexcused absence being recorded for the individual class.  Classroom teachers will record dates students are tardy and may impose additional class consequences. 

 

TARDY TO SCHOOL:

Students are expected to be a school at the beginning of first period class.  Students who are tardy to school will serve a lunch time detention.  Students will need to furnish the classroom teacher an admit slip from the office when tardy to school.  Habitual tardies may result in additional disciplinary action as determined by the principal.

 

INCOMPLETES:

Incompletes are extended only to those students showing extenuating circumstances or prolonged excused absences.   Extensions may be granted by the teacher with permission of the principal.  Failure to finish an incomplete within 2 weeks may result in a failing grade and loss of credit.

 

COLLEGE VISITATION:

College visits are an important part of choosing a post-secondary institution.  College visits will be limited to 2 per semester during their junior and senior year.  If a student makes additional college visits, it will be treated as an absence.  For attendance purposes, college visits (2 per semester) will be treated the same as school field trips provided the student furnishes the school with proof of the college visit such as a signed letter or business card from the admissions office.  Students are expected to obtain make-up slips from the office prior to visit.

 

NCAA Division I & II Requirements:

 

Students planning on competing athletically at NCAA Division I or Division II colleges and universities, must meet academic eligibility and core-course requirements while in high school.  In addition, students must register with the NCAA Athletic Clearinghouse during their senior year in high school.  For more information got to www.ncaa.org  or see the high school guidance counselor.  It is the responsibility of the student to make sure they are eligible.

 

Iowa’s Regents Universities Admission Requirements:

 

The Regents Universities in Iowa (Iowa State University, The University of Iowa, and University of Northern Iowa) have minimum high school course requirements for admission to their universities.  See the charts on the last pages of this book. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure they meet those requirements.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section IV:  GRADING AND CLASS INFORMATION 

 

JUNIOR HIGH GPA The Grade Point Average will be calculated by our computer grading program using the following scale: A (97-100%) = 4.0                 B+ (91-93%) = 3.33             C+ (83-85%) = 2.33           D+ (74-76%) = 1.33           F (Below 70%) = 0 A-   (94-96%) = 3.67             B   (88-90%) = 3.00             C    (80-82%) = 2.00          D    (72-73%) = 1.00                                                                            B-  (86-87%) = 2.67             C-  (77-79%) = 1.67           D-   (70-71%) = 0.67 Band, choir, and PE will be assigned a letter grade.  Exploratories will be pass/fail due to the design and nature of the class.   Grading Frequency Student grades will be calculated every three weeks of each quarter.  At that time, students will receive a written copy of their grades.   Homework Parents/guardians/guardians are encouraged to check assignment notebooks each night for completed homework, student progress, and notes from teachers.  Teachers will verify that the assignment is correct during the class period through initializing or stamping the assignment box in the assignment notebook.   Late Work Policy The following policy will be followed in terms of late assignments:   A.    A late assignment shall be considered work not totally completed at the beginning of the class period of due date.  Assignments turned in after the class meets but on the same day as the assignment is due will be considered late. B.   Late assignments will have the grade adjusted by the classroom teacher.                  C.    Parents/guardians/guardians will be notified via telephone call or letter.   Honor Roll The honor roll is based on overall GPA in the five core subject areas of language arts I, language arts II, math, science, and social studies, as well as band, chorus, and physical education.  Students will be on the B Honor Roll when their GPA is from 3.00 to 3.66 and on the A Honor Roll when their GPA is from 3.67 to 4.00.  The five core subjects will have a weighting of 1.0 in calculating honor roll.  Band, chorus, and P.E. will have a weighting of 0.5, representing the proportional time spent in those classes per week.   Music Students may not drop a fine arts class during the semester unless the principal has given permission due to special circumstances.  A student may drop a fine arts class at the end of the semester if there is study hall space available and they have the principal’s permission.   Promotion Requirements A student must pass eight out of ten semesters of the five core subject areas (math, science, language arts I, language arts II, and social studies) to be promoted to the next grade.    1.  A student who only passes 7 of the 10 semesters will need to attend summer school and pass one of the failed classes in order to move on to the next grade. 2.  A student who only passes 6 of the 10 semesters of core classes will need to attend summer school and pass two of the failed classes in order to move on to the next grade. 3.  A student who only passes 5 or fewer of the 10 semesters of core classes will need to repeat the grade.   Students must attend the summer school offered by the River Valley School District.  Students who only pass 6 or 7 of the 10 core semesters who choose not to attend summer school will need to repeat the grade.   A letter will be sent to the parents/guardians/guardians of the students receiving a failing grade for the first semester, reminding them of the promotion policy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

River Valley High School -- Grade point system

 

                        Pct.         Letter      Points                                                    Pct.         Letter      Points                                   

                                100-97       A           4.00                                                         82-80         C           2.00        

                                96-94         A-         3.67                                                         79-77         C-          1.67                                        

                                93-91         B+         3.33                                                         76-74         D+         1.33                                        

                                90-88         B           3.00                                                         73-72         D           1.00                                        

                                87-86         B-          2.67                                                         71-70         D-          0.67                                        

                                85-83         C+         2.33                                                         69              F            0.00

 

REQUIRED CLASSES TO IMPROVE PROFICIENCY

The River Valley High School requires students who have scored below the proficiency level of 40% in specific areas of their ITBS/ITED testing to be enrolled in classes to improve their performance.  Freshman students that are found to be deficient in Mathematics will be required to enroll in Mathematics Foundations.  Freshman or Sophomore students found to be deficient in Reading will be required to enroll in English 9 Foundations or English 10 Foundations, respectively.

 

GRADE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

The River Valley High School will be initiating a program to help students to earn passing grades.  Advisory will be held each day from 2:39 to 3:00.  There will be a help session held from 3:00-3:30.  This help session will be held with the advisory instructor and in the same room where advisory is held.  All students will be required to attend the help session the initial three weeks of school.  Students will be required to attend the help sessions when a three week grade of an F is earned.  All students will be required to bring class work to these sessions and to work during the allotted time.

 

SEMESTER TESTS REQUIREMENTS:

All students must take a semester exam in each class.

1.     Semester tests will count 20% of the semester grade.

2.     Honor roll requirements:

             “A” HONOR ROLL:   GPA of 3.67 – 4.00 with no grade lower than 77%

             “B” HONOR ROLL:   GPA of 3.00 – 3.66 with no grade lower than 77%

3.     Scholarship recognition is based on the academic performance for tenth through twelfth graders.  Students must have a GPA of 3.00 for each of the previous two semesters. 

 

ADDING/DROPPING COURSES:

Students will not be allowed to add or drop a course after the first 3 days of the 1^st semester (and first 3 days of the 2^nd semester for second semester courses).  Exceptions can be made by the principal.

 

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS:  (Board Policy 505.5)

Students must successfully complete all the required courses of study prior to graduation as determined by the State Department of Education and the Board of Education. 

 

General:

1. Students need forty-six credits for graduation.
2. One credit equals a minimum of 200 minutes per week for one semester.
3. All students must take a minimum of 6 academic courses per semester.  Band and vocal are considered academic courses.
4. If a student needs travel time to participate in an extended learning opportunity their academic course requirement will be defined as 5 academic classes.
5. Exceptions may be granted by the principal.
6. Early graduation is permissible when graduation requirements are met.  Early graduates may be excused from commencement exercises.  Students should see the guidance counselor for early graduation procedures.  Students graduating early forfeit participation in all second semester activities. (See early graduation form)
7. Students must be in a minimum of 4 academic classes that count towards River Valley graduation requirements to be eligible for extra-curricular activities.

 

*Physical Education - every semester - all grades. 

               Students in grades nine through twelve shall be required to participate in physical education courses unless they are excused by the principal.

              

Students may be excused from physical education courses:

1. If the student presents a written statement from a doctor stating that such activities could be injurious to the health of the student or
2. The student has been exempted because of a conflict with the student's religious beliefs.

c.     The principal approves for academic reasons       

d.     The student has obtained a physical education waiver for a semester because they are actively involved in an athletic program.  If a student fails to participate in the athletic activity, they may be required to make up the physical education credit.

 

PROGRESS TOWARD GRADUATION: 

Students must have the minimum credits on record for grade classification:

      Minimum Credits on Record                  Grade Classification

                                11                                            end of 9^th grade                                                    

                                23                                            end of 10^th grade

                B             35                                            end of 11^th grade

 

PARTICIPATION Y STUDENTS IN GRADUATION EXERCISES: 

High school students and parents/guardians/guardians will be notified by the high school principal if it appears the student will not complete the necessary graduation requirements.  The student will not be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony if they do not meet graduation requirements.

 

Students who are non-participants and who have ordered cap and gown, announcements, name cards, etc. will still be responsible for the fees associated with these orders.

 

COMMENCEMENT: 

1.    Senior Class is responsible for decoration and flowers.

1. Graduation fees may be assessed individual graduates to cover graduation costs.
2. Seniors are required to attend graduation practice.
3. Honor grads - those with a Cum GPA of 3.50 – 3.79 or higher (end of 3^rd 9 weeks for Seniors).
4. Highest honor grads - those with a Cum GPA of 3.80 – 4.00 (end of 3^rd 9 weeks for Seniors).

 

TRANSFERRED CREDITS:

High School credits not earned at River Valley must be approved by the Superintendent and the High School Principal as to course name and number earned.

 

REPORT CARDS AND PROGRESS REPORTS:

Report cards are issued following each 9-week period.  Progress reports may be mailed home during each nine-week period.  The purpose of these and all reports is to inform students and their parents/guardians/guardians of progress being made.  Teachers will inform high school students of their grades at 3 week intervals.  

 

ONLINE GRADE ACCESS

Grades will be available to parents online beginning the 2010-2011 school year.  This feature will be an effective way for teachers and parents to share information on student performance. Information concerning online access will be made available at www.river-valley.k12.ia.us  

 

Section V:  EXTENDED LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES (Board Policy 604.6)

 

Students in grades nine through twelve may receive academic or vocational-technical credits that count toward the graduation requirements set out by the board for courses successfully completed in post-secondary educational institutions.  The student may receive academic or vocational-technical credits through an agreement between a post-secondary educational institution or with the board’s approval on a case-by-case basis.

 

2008 LEGISLATIVE SESSION  created a new Iowa Code Chapter  261E

Students who do not have a 41 or above for the NPR (national percentile rank) on the ITBS/ITED in each of the following areas:  reading, math, and science (must be 41 or above in ALL three.) cannot take classes currently offered at RV would be:  AP Calculus; and other AP classes; Psychology; Sociology; Intro to Health Occupations; Medical Terminology; CAN; any PSEO class; welding.

 

We can adopt an alternative assessment if students do not meet these criteria.  The River Valley School

Board will be considering a proposal to allow students to take the CPT test at Western Iowa Tech and meet their cut score for the particular class that the student wants to sign up for.

PROCEDURE TO TAKE CPT AT W.I.T.:

1. Contact the testing center at WIT and schedule an appointment to take the test.  The test takes about

      90 minutes.  The general phone number at WIT is 1-800-352-4649, when the operator answers ask for the testing center (or enter ext. 6443) and schedule an appointment.

1. Take your social security number with you to take the test.
2. Please inform them at the testing center that as a high school student you need to take the science test
3. When you take the test, inform them that you need a copy of the report to take back to school with you.
4. If the school does not have proof that you took the test, you will not be able to take one of the affected classes.  This would need to be done in time to switch classes.

 

TO RECEIVE RIVER VALLEY CREDIT FOR A POST SECONDARY CLASS:

 

The following factors are considered in the board’s determination of whether a student will receive River

Valley credit toward the graduation requirements set out by the board for a course at a post-secondary educational institution:

 

1. The course is taken from a public or accredited private post-secondary educational institution.
2. A comparable course is not offered in the school district.  A comparable course is one in which the subject matter or the purposes and objectives of the course are similar, in the judgment of the board, to a course offered in the school district.
3. The course is in the discipline areas of mathematics, science, social sciences, humanities, vocational-technical education, or a course offered in the community college career options program.
4. The course is a credit-bearing course that leads to a degree.
5. The course is not religious or sectarian; and
6. The course meets any other requirements set out by the board.

 

If a student wants to take a non River Valley class on their own at a Post Secondary institution during the school day that doesn’t qualify in the above categories, they must have board approval.  The student is responsible for enrollment procedures, cost and transportation.  River Valley credit may be awarded at the discretion of the school board.  If a River Valley student wishes to take a class other than during the school day for high school credit, Board approval must be obtained prior to enrolling in the class.

 

 

POSTSECONDARY ENROLLMENT OPTIONS (PSEO):

High school juniors and seniors, or ninth or tenth grade students identified as gifted and talented may enroll part time in courses at postsecondary institutions through PSEO.

• The student must take the class for college credit and meet all of the requirements of the course.
• Students may not enroll in a course at postsecondary institutions if a comparable course is available at the high school. 
• High schools may require pre-requisite courses offered at the high school prior to a PSEO course.
• The students will receive high school credit for PSEO classes.
• Transportation to these courses is the responsibility of the student.
• If a student fails to complete the course or receive credit they and their parents/guardians are responsible for reimbursing the school district the cost of the course.

Maximum cost to school district is $250.00 per student per course, which includes tuition, fees, and books.  If a student fails to complete the course or receive credit, they and their parents/guardians/guardians are responsible for reimbursing the school district the cost of the course.

Students wishing to take PSEO classes need to check with the Guidance Counselor to complete the necessary paperwork by November 1^st for spring semester and May 1 for fall semester.

 

CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT: (formerly dual credit: receiving both college & high school credit)

River Valley and WIT have an agreement to provide credit from both institutions for specific approved classes.  The student would receive credit on a WIT transcript and on their River Valley transcript.  Concurrent enrollment students must pay for textbooks. 

 

LEAGUE OF SCHOOLS: League of School courses are college courses offered in partnership with secondary school districts utilizing a qualified college instructor.  Many of these college credit courses are offered at the high school.  The high school may choose to provide high school credit, making these concurrent enrollments.  League courses are required to use the college textbook and follow the course outline, as well as develop a course syllabus and submit the syllabus to the college.  These courses are considered shared courses.  Their intent is to expand opportunities to high school students.  These courses will not displace programs, but enrich program offerings. 

• The student must take the class for college credit and meet all of the requirements of the course, which are required of postsecondary students
• Transportation to these courses is the responsibility of the student/family.

River Valley Community School, WIT and other schools in our area are offering student shared classes.  A River Valley student may take a class from the River Valley roster of League Classes if approved by the guidance counselor and principal.

 

ARTICULATION: Articulation is the process of mutually agreeing upon core competencies and performance levels transferable between the secondary and post secondary institutions.  Students are awarded advanced placement and standing in the courses, having completed all competencies at a minimum of the 90^th percentile at no cost to the high school student.  Articulation allows students enrolled in vocational/ technical and/or applied academic high school courses to transfer to WITCC and receive college credit for having successfully achieved the core competencies as listed on the WITCC course outlines.

• Instructors must teach all of the competencies of the Western Iowa Tech course and validate the level of competency achieved by each student.  The instructor and the principal of the school district sign agreements and validation forms.
• Articulation must be achieved by the student at the 11^th or 12^th grade and requested within one year of graduation from high school.
• Credits for articulated high school courses will be recorded on the college transcript by the WITCC equivalent course title, catalog number, and credit hours with a grade designation of “L”, which designated credit for prior learning.
• Students wishing to articulate a course must take a minimum of 12 credit hours at WITCC.

It is the student’s responsibility to provide WITCC with the signed agreements and valid forms.

Section VI:  STUDENT BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE

Each student’s behavior should be governed by respect for the authority vested in all school employees, regard for public property, and consideration of the rights and welfare of all students.  Emphasis is placed upon the growth of the student’s ability to practice self-discipline.

All staff members have jurisdiction over all students on school property, school transportation, and at all school activities (whether or not the activities are on school property). 

 

CORRECTING IRRESPONSIBLE BEHAVIOR:Students will practice responsible behavior (a) while on school premises; (b) while engaged in any school sponsored activity; (c) while on school-owned transportation or chartered transportation; and (d) while away from school grounds if such conduct directly affects the good order, efficiency, management, or welfare of the school.  River Valley uses the ladder approach to discipline.  The administration has the right to modify the consequence depending on the situation.

 

There are four types of discipline that are instituted in the junior and senior high school.  They are Staff Issued Consequences, Administrative Detentions, Discipline Code Violations, and Office Referrals.  The following are the definitions of each.

River Valley uses the Discipline ladder.  The administration has the right to modify the consequence depending upon the situation.

Staff Issued Consequence (detention) - When a student violates a rule or misbehaves, they will receive an appropriate consequence administered by the staff member who witnessed the incident.  Failure to serve the detention will result in more severe consequences.  Students will serve the detention with the teacher who assigned the detention.

Administrative Detentions - When a student violates a rule that is not defined in the discipline code, the principal may issue a detention.

Discipline Code Violation - When a student violates the discipline code, which is defined on the following pages of the handbook, they receive the appropriate consequence on the discipline ladder.  Every time a student violates the discipline code they move up the discipline code ladder.

Office Referrals – The removal of a student from a classroom due to behavior which substantially interrupts the educational process.  The office staff is unable to accept referrals for minor problems.  Office referrals will be used only for severe and recurring problems.

1. First referral:  The student's parents/guardians or guardians will be contacted by the instructor before the student will be re-admitted to the class.  Consequences may be given by the instructor.
2. Second referral:  The student’s parents/guardians or guardians will be contacted by the principal before the student will be readmitted.  Consequences will be given by the principal.
3. Third referral:  Student will be dismissed from class for the remainder of the semester with loss of credit.

Referrals do not accumulate from one semester to another.

 

DETENTION:

If students are to be detained before or after school, they will be given time to make arrangements with their parents/guardians/ guardians.  If students do not report to the teacher on the day and at the time assigned for making up time, the amount of detention will be doubled and further penalties may be attached.  In certain cases, students may be isolated during lunch to make up detention time. 

 

DISCIPLINE CODE:

This policy applies to students (a) while on school premises; (b) while engaged in any school sponsored activity; (c) while on school-owned transportation or chartered transportation; and (d) while away from school grounds if such conduct directly affects the good order, efficiency, management, or welfare of the school.

 

• The following list contains examples of conduct that are not permitted.  However, the list does not include every imaginable type of misconduct.  Those cases in which misconduct is not defined in the following list, the building principal will make the final decision as to the appropriate step of consequence.  The following list refers to the minimal consequence that the student could receive on the discipline ladder for choosing to display the following conduct.  Severe cases may result in addition ladder steps.

 

One Step Offenses: (generally handled by observing teacher)

• Any verbal threat against another student;
• Making noise in the vicinity of the school, classrooms, or school sponsored activities that disrupts the orderly, efficient and disciplined atmosphere of the school or activity;
• The use of any grossly inappropriate language (swearing). 
• Any disrespect directed towards a student including, but not limited to, language and/or gestures;
• The tampering with or the abuse of electronic equipment including, but not limited to, sending inappropriate messages via the computer network, sabotaging student or teacher work-tampering and abusing electronic equipment or any violation of the Internet use policy.  Severe cases may result in additional discipline ladder steps at the principal’s discretion and/or loss privilege.
• Public displays of affection of a sexual nature;
• Severe insubordination;
• Habitual truancy to school or classes
• Any disrespect directed towards a staff member including, but not limited to, language and/or gestures. 

Two Step Offenses

• Extortion of a student, that is obtaining money, property or services of any sort by reason of threat or intimidation;
• Stealing, theft, or robbery.
• Vandalism that will require restitution;
• Violation of federal or state law or local ordinance at school such as drinking or smoking,
• Fighting with another student(s)
• By words or action initiating or circulating a report or warning of fire, epidemic, or other catastrophic event knowing such a report to be false or such warning to be baseless;
• Obstructing school premises, access to school premises, or premises where a school activity is
  • • being held;
• Any harassment based upon race, gender, ethnic background, creed, religion, or the display in school or disability against another student, teacher, or school employee.  Harassment includes, but is not limited to, annoying, tormenting, or using derogatory words, statements, or gestures;
• Sexual harassment which includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual flirtations, verbal abuse of a sexual nature, graphic verbal comments about an individual's body parts, sexually degrading words used to describe an individual, on school grounds or school transportation of sexually suggestive objects or pictures, and any other unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

Three Step Offenses

• Any verbal or physical threat against any staff member or visitor;
• Extortion of a teacher, that is obtaining money, property or services of any sort by reason of threat or intimidation;
• Threatening to place any incendiary or explosive device or material, or any destructive substance or device, in or near any school premises or premises where a school- sponsored activity will be held;
• Faculty Harassment (See reference 507.9); Any student(s) while in or out of school, who tampers with, defaces, marks, vandalizes, or harasses a faculty member or other school employee, their name, or their property, may be suspended for at least two days (could be step 2 or step 3 offense).  Appropriate restitution for property damage or financial expenses incurred shall be made.

Four Step Offenses

• None listed (principal's discretion)

 

Five Step Offenses

• Any physical attack against any staff member;
• Possession of a weapon or look-alike weapon (state law);
• Causing or attempting to cause a fire or explosion, or placing any burning or combustible material or any incendiary or explosive device or material, in or near any school property, whether or not any such property is actually damaged or destroyed.

 

Every time a student violates the discipline code during the school year they move up the discipline ladder to the next appropriate step.

 

Depending on the severity of the misconduct, steps may be skipped as the principal deems necessary.   If the student does not get another discipline code violation during the next four weeks from the time of the incident, steps may be reduced by the administration and the student’s teachers (applies only 1 time per semester).

 

In addition to the discipline ladder, the principal shall have available to him an entire range of options including, but not limited to, conferences with the students and parents/guardians, loss of free time, loss of privileges, detention, assignment of additional work, restitution, intervention plan, in-school suspension of up to ten days and out-of-school suspension of up to ten days.

 

Staff members shall refer students to the principal for any violation of the discipline code.  Staff members will provide the principal with appropriate documentation. Staff members shall have the power to remove the student from the classroom for violations of the discipline code. 

 

DISCIPLINE CODE LADDER:

One Step Consequence:  

One (1) day of in-school or out-of-school suspension will be served.  The student’s parents/guardians/guardians will receive a phone call and/or a letter from the principal’s office notifying them of the incident.  The student may be referred to the guidance counselor.

Two Step Consequence: 

Two (2) days of in-school or out-of-school suspension will be served.  The student’s parents/guardians/guardians will receive a phone call and a letter from the principal’s office                 notifying them of the incident.  The student may be referred to the guidance counselor.

Three Step Consequence: 

Three (3) days of in-school or out-of-school suspension will be served. A conference will be held with the parents/guardians/guardians.

Four Step Consequence:  

Five (5) days of in-school or out-of-school suspension will be served.  A conference will be held with the student and parents/guardians/guardians.

Five Step Consequence:  

Alternate education placement and/or expulsion hearing with the Board of Education as determined by administration.  Students may be suspended until a possible expulsion hearing can be held.  The parent/guardian and student will be notified, verbally and in writing, of the reasons for the hearing, and the date and time of the hearing. 

 

SUSPENSION:  (Board Policy 503.1)

Suspension means either an in-school suspension, an out-of-school suspension, a restriction from activities, or a Saturday suspension.  An in-school suspension means the student will attend school but will be temporarily isolated from one or more classes while under supervision.  The student may not attend school activities or may not participate in a contest of extracurricular activities.  An in-school suspension will not exceed ten days.  An out-of-school suspension means the student is removed from the school environment, which includes school classes and activities.  An out-of-school suspension will not exceed ten days.  Suspensions will not be considered as absences.

When students are on suspensions, they must get their assignments from teachers, and have them completed by the time they return to their classes.  Credit will be given for work turned in.

 

INITIATIONS, HAZING, BULLYING, OR HARASSMENT:  (Board Policy 403.5E1)

Hazing, harassment, bullying and abuse are violations of school district policies, rules and regulations and, in some cases, may also be a violation of criminal or other laws.  The school district has the authority to report students violating this rule to law enforcement officials.

 

Harassment, bullying, hazing, or any other victimization, of students, based on any of the following actual or perceived traits or characteristics, is prohibited:  age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or familial status.  Students who feel that they have been harassed or bullied should:

• Communicate to the alleged harasser or bully that the student expects the behavior to stop, if the student is comfortable doing so.  If the student needs assistance communicating with the harasser or bully, the student should ask a teacher, counselor or principal to help.
• If the harassment or bullying does not stop, or the student does not feel comfortable confronting the harasser or bully, the student should:
  • tell a teacher, counselor or principal: and
  • write down exactly what happened, keep a copy and give another copy to the teacher, counselor or principal including
  • what, when and where it happened;
  • who was involved;
  • exactly what was said or what the harasser or bully did;
  • witnesses to the harassment or bullying;
  • what the student said or did, either at the time or later;
  • how the student felt; and
  • how the harasser or bullying responded.

Sexual harassment is prohibited and may include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.  Harassment/bullying on the basis of age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status or familial status includes conduct of a verbal or physical nature that is designed to embarrass, distress, agitate, disturb or trouble persons:

• when places the student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or property;
• when has a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s physical or mental health;
• when has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s academic performance; or
• when has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.

Sexual Harassment includes, but is not limited to:

• verbal, physical or written harassment or abuse;
• pressure for sexual activity;
• repeated remarks to a person with sexual or demeaning implications; and
• suggesting or demanding sexual involvement, accompanied by implied or explicit threats.

Harassment or bullying based upon factors other than sex includes, but is not limited to:

• verbal, physical, or written harassment or abuse;
• repeated remarks of a demeaning nature;
• implied or explicit threats concerning one’s grades, job, etc; and
• demeaning jokes, stories or activities.

All forms of harassment are prohibited by the school district.  Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to the investigation procedure which may result in discipline, up to and including, suspension and expulsion.

 

POSSESSION OF A WEAPON: (Board Policy 502.6)

The board believes weapons and other dangerous objects in school district facilities cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district.

 

School district facilities are not an appropriate place for weapons, dangerous objects and look-a-likes.  Weapons and other dangerous objects and look-a-likes will be taken from students and others who bring them onto the school district property or onto property within the jurisdiction of the school district or from students who are within the control of the school district.

 

Parents/guardians of students found to possess weapons, dangerous objects or look-a-likes on school property are notified of the incident.  Possession or confiscation of weapons or dangerous objects will be reported to law enforcement officials, and students will be subject to disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.

 

Students bring firearms to school or knowingly possessing firearms at school will be expelled for not less than one year.  The superintendent has the authority to recommend this expulsion requirement be modified for students on a case-by-case basis.  For purposes of this portion of this policy, the term “firearm” includes, but is not limited to, any weapon which is designed to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver of any such weapon, a muffler or silencer for such a weapon, or any explosive, incendiary or poison gas.

 

Students shall be expelled for not less than twelve months and referred to law enforcement authorities.

 

Weapons under the control of law enforcement officials are exempt from this policy.  The principal may allow authorized persons to display weapons, other dangerous objects or look-a-likes for educational purposes.  Such a display will also be exempt from this policy.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

POSSESSION OF A LOOK-ALIKE WEAPONS: 

Any student who possesses or uses any look-alike weapon on any school grounds (including school grounds of other districts) or while engaged in school sponsored activities or while on school-owned or operated transportation or on chartered transportation, shall be subject to disciplinary action. “Look-alike weapon” means any item which resembles or appears to be a weapon, including but not limited to squirt guns, water rifles or pistols, slingshots, toy guns, toy grenades, chains and other similar items. The state has classified laser pointers as weapons.  LASER POINTERS ARE STRICTLY PROHIBITED.  Laser pointers and laser projection devices can not be used or possessed by students on school grounds or at school events on or off campus.                         

 

First Offense: The principal shall have the authority to determine the extent and nature of the disciplinary action based upon the student’s age, the actions of the student in possessing and using the look-alike weapon, student’s intent and the nature of the look-alike weapon and proximate resemblance to a real weapon. The disciplinary action which may be imposed includes, but is not limited to: conferences with the student and parent; detention; suspension for up to ten (10) days; and referral to a Hearing Panel of the Board of Education for disciplinary action including long-term suspension and expulsion.

 

Second Offense and all subsequent offenses: Referral to the Hearing Panel of the Board of Education for disciplinary action.

DUE PROCESS:

Suspension - One to five days - the River Valley School due process procedure for student suspension from school/school activities/school facilities:

 

1.     Hold a hearing with the student.

2.     Give the nature of the charges either orally or in written form.

3.     If the student denies the charges, the administrator will explain the evidence and give the student a chance to explain their side of the story.

4.     The student may then be suspended. If the student’s presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process, they may be immediately removed from school. In such cases, the necessary notice and hearing may be waived.

5.     Parents/guardians or guardians, school principal, school counselor, and superintendent will receive a written notification of the suspension and the nature of the charges causing suspension.

 

APPEAL PROCEDURE FOR ALL DISCIPLINARY ACTION AT RIVER VALLEY: 

All disciplinary appeals shall first be taken to the appropriate people involved, then the building principal, superintendent, then the school board.  The only exception shall be in those rare instances where the superintendent is directly involved in the initial disciplinary action, and then this step shall be eliminated.  Refer to school board policies.

 

EXPULSION PROCEDURE: (Board Policy 503.1 & 503.2)

Expulsion means an action by the board to remove a student from the school environment, which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities, for a period of time set by the board.

 

Students may be expelled for violations of board policy, school rules or the law.  It shall be within the discretion of the board to discipline a student by using an expulsion for a single offense or for a series of offenses depending on the nature of the offense and the circumstances surrounding the offense. 

 

It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to recommend to the board the expulsion of a student for disciplinary purposes.  Only the board may take action to expel a student and to readmit the student.  The principal shall keep records of expulsions in addition to the board's records. 

 

When a student is recommended for expulsion by the board, the student shall be provided with:

1.    Notice of the reasons for the proposed expulsion;

2.   The names of the witnesses and an oral or written report on the facts to which each witness testifies unless the witnesses are students whose names may be released at the discretion of the superintendent;

3.  An opportunity to present a defense against the charges and provide either oral testimony or written      affidavits of witnesses on the student's behalf;

4.    The right to be represented by counsel; and,

5.    The results and finding of the board in writing open to the student's inspection.

 

SMOKING, DRINKING, DRUGS:   (Board Policy 502.7)

The board prohibits the distribution, dispensing, manufacture, possession, use, or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol, tobacco, other controlled substances, or "look alike" substances that appear to be tobacco, beer, wine, alcohol or controlled substances by students while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.

 

Violations of this policy by students will result in disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.  Use, purchase or being in possession of cigarettes, tobacco or tobacco products for those under the age of eighteen, may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.  Possession, use or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol and/or of a controlled substance may also be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.

 

Students who violate the terms of this policy may be required to satisfactorily complete a substance abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved by the school board.  If such student fails to satisfactorily complete such a program, the student may be subject to discipline including suspension or expulsion.

APPEARANCE: (Board Policy 502.1)

-The board believes inappropriate student appearance causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors.

-Students are not to wear any type of clothing, which in any way emphasizes or suggests alcohol, drugs, sex, tobacco, racism, body parts, or undesirable language.  The board expects students to be clean and well-groomed and wear clothes in good repair and appropriate for the time, place and occasion.  While the primary responsibility for appearance lies with the students and their parents/guardians, appearance disruptive to the education program will not be tolerated.  When, in the judgment of a principal, a student’s appearance or mode of dress disrupts the educational process or constitutes a threat to health or safety, the student may be required to make modifications.

-For reasons of both physical and mental health, students shall be clean in body and clothing.  Hairstyles shall be keeping with ideals of neatness and cleanliness.  Dresses, shorts, skirts which are worn to school must not cause undue attention or cause disruptions in the instructional process.  The school day is a student work day and attire should be suitable.  If a student’s appearance causes undue attention or disruptions in the instructional process, there will be suggestions and recommendations made as to change of attire (turning a shirt inside out, etc.) The RV faculty will be involved in determining what attire is acceptable or unacceptable and the enforcement of the guidelines.

-Other rules following appearance include:

1. Headgear (hat, bandanna, hoods, etc.) is not to be worn in  the building in the morning until 4:00 p.m.
2. The area from shoulders to mid-thigh should be covered.
3. Clothing which exposes a bare midriff or shows cleavage is unsuitable.
4. Spaghetti strap tops should not be worn unless a sleeved t-shirt is worn underneath.
5. Halter style tops are not to be worn.
6. Shorts/dresses/skirts must extend to mid-thigh when standing.
7. Wallet chains and/or other “link type chains” will not be allowed if, in the opinion of the administration, it could be considered a weapon or look-alike weapon.
8. No garments, tattoos, accessories or other items will be allowed that advertise or promote drugs, alcohol, tobacco, violence, or illegal activity.  There will be no sexually suggestive, lewd, profane, or obscene language or images on garments, tattoos, accessories or other items.
9. Footwear should be worn at all times & appropriate to classroom activity.  Slippers are not acceptable.
10. All parts of undergarments are to be covered at all times.  Npo ajamas and/or lounge pants.
11. No coats shall be worn in the classroom (except for travel time to the shop or portable buildings)
12. No sunglasses shall be worn in the school.
13. Dress policies may be waived by the administration during special events.

Students may be sent home to change into appropriate clothing. If the student does not have alternative clothing to wear, he/she may be asked to put on suitable clothing which may be provided by the office.  A student may also be asked to turn an offensive shirt inside out.  Class time missed due to violations may be considered unexcused.

 

RESPONSIBILITY IN COMMON AREAS: A school’s common areas include such places as assemblies, bleachers, main office, commons, entrance of the building, hallways, parking lots, and restrooms. 

Assemblies Expectations: 

• Students will be dismissed by office announcement
• During joint Jr.- Sr. High assemblies, Jr. High will occupy seating in the front
• Be respectful of presenters by being quiet and attentive
• Remain seated until there is an appropriate break in the program or until dismissal

Bleachers (Indoor & Outdoor Activities)

“The ideals of good sportsmanship, ethical behavior, and integrity permeate our culture.  The values of good citizenship and high behavioral standards apply equally to all activity disciplines.  In perception and practice, good sportsmanship shall be defined as those qualities of behavior, which are characterized by generosity and genuine concern for others.  Further, awareness is expected of the impact of an individual’s influence on the behavior of others.  Good sportsmanship is viewed by the Iowa High School Athletic Association as a concrete measure of the understanding and commitment of fair play, ethical behavior, and integrity.”

• Iowa High School Athletic Association Mission Statement 

Expectations:       

• Students will demonstrate the ideals of sportsmanship as set forth by the IHSAA.
• School personnel will be regarded as serving in the context of the regular school day and will be shown the appropriate respect.
• All people present will demonstrate proper respect by standing still, being quiet, and removing any headgear during The National Anthem.
• Only performers or athletes are to use the east doors of the gym.

Commons Expectations:    

• Unless eating breakfast in the commons in the morning
• All junior high students should be in the gym
• Stay in commons until the bell rings or until dismissed.

Entering the Building Expectations:              

• When entering the building, use designated doors.
• All headgear should be removed upon entering the building.  (prohibited from morning entrance until 4:00 p.m.)

Hallways Expectations:      

• Keep hands to yourself.
• Language should be appropriate according to school guidelines.
• Demonstrate courtesy to all.
• Refrain from inappropriate public displays of affection.
• Follow staff directions.
• Students should always have their planner (as a pass) visible when in the hall during classes.
• Keep voices lowered when passing between and especially during classes.
• Students may not be in the hallway before 8:25 without permission.

Parking Lots Expectations:

• Students may park in assigned areas with the exception of the spaces that face the West side of the building.
• Follow all posted parking regulations.
• Students must receive permission through central office to go to vehicles during the school day.
• Drive safely, slowly, and respectfully toward others.
• Allow other vehicles enough room to leave parking lot.
• Report accidents immediately.
• Use appropriate language.
• Trash should be placed in proper receptacles.
• Maintain low noise levels in the parking lot.

Restrooms Expectations:

• Respect school property by not damaging or defacing any part of the room.
• Respect the privacy and personal space of others.
• Students must sign out before going to the restroom.

 

Section VII: STUDENT ACTIVITIES HANDBOOK

JUNIOR HIGH ACTIVITIES

 

Eligibility

                 

Athletic Eligibility  - Any 7^th or 8^th grade student wishing to participate in athletics and all other extracurricular activities (including band/choir events) must meet the following criteria:

 

1. Student academic eligibility is reviewed at three, six, and nine weeks of the quarter.  If a student is failing one or more of their classes (this includes all classes figured into the GPA), they will be considered ineligible to participate in events.
2. An ineligible student will be required to miss a minimum of one event for each extra-curricular activity in which they are involved during the next three week grading period following the three week grading period in which the failing grade(s) occurred.
3. Once the student has raised their failing grade(s) to a passing level and after missing the minimum of one event per extra-curricular activity during the three week grading period, they will again be eligible for all extra-curricular activities.
4. During a three week grading period, a student receiving three staff issued consequences, an administrative consequence, or a discipline code violation; the student will be ineligible for the entire next three week grading period.

              

NOTE:  Eligible students can expect to participate in all scheduled activities. In  athletics, the amount of playing time will be determined by the coach based on attitude, ability, effort, knowledge of the game, practices attended, and sportsmanship.

         

Athletic and Extra-Curricular Good Conduct Policy - The junior high school extra-curricular eligibility extends beyond athletics to include other out-of-school activities such as Math Bee, History Day, Young Scientist Competition, and others.

 

In the event a student who is in athletics or extra-curricular activities admits to or is given a citation for the possession of alcoholic beverages, drugs, or tobacco in or out of school, OR is witnessed using or possessing alcohol, drugs, or tobacco by a school employee (and reported) an investigation will be conducted by the principal.  If a student is determined to be guilty the following consequences may apply:

 

1st Offense: The participant will be ineligible for the next three consecutive extra-curricular events held from the date of the declaration of ineligibility that they would have been involved in.

2nd Offense:  The participant will be ineligible for the next six consecutive extra-curricular events held from the date of the declaration of ineligibility that they would have been involved in.

3rd and all Subsequent Offenses: The participant will be ineligible for one calendar year from the date of the declaration of ineligibility.

 

Consequences of ineligibility will carry over from activity to activity until the ineligibility is served

 

HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

 

Activities offered to River Valley High School Students include:  Interscholastic Athletics (Football, Basketball,  Baseball, Softball, Volleyball, Track, Golf, Cross Country, Drill Team, Cheerleading), Jazz Band, Swing Choir, Pep Band, Drama, Individual Speech, Large Group Speech, Strength Training, Student Council, FCCLA, FCA, National Honor Society, Quiz Bowl, Spanish Club, Mock Trial, and Art Club.

 

ALL STUDENTS WISHING TO PARTICIPATE IN ACTIVITIES MUST ATTEND (ALONG WITH A PARENT OR GUARDIAN) A FALL, SPRING, OR MAKE-UP ACTIVITIES MEETING IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE.  DATES/TIMES & DETAILS OF THESE MEETINGS WILL BE ANNOUNCED.

 

The following policy statements are intended as broad, general guidelines and are to be used as an aid to efficient and orderly operation of the extra-curricular department.  These policy statements pertain to student in grades 9-12 who are participating in activities during the 12-month period of (August 1- July 31) each year.  Any deviation from written policy is to be cleared with the superintendent.

 

High School Administrative Team will consist of the High School Principal and Activities Director.  The Team will administer the policies, if conflict arises, the superintendent will intercede.

 

1. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

1. 1. All contestants must be under 20 years of age.
   2. Special education students should not be denied eligibility on the basis of scholarship if student is making adequate progress as determined by school officials.
   3. A student is eligible to participate for a maximum of eight (8) consecutive semesters, upon entering the ninth grade for the first time.  Eighth (8^th) grade students are eligible for summer softball and baseball on the first competition date.
   4. A student is academically eligible upon entering the ninth grade.
   5. No student shall be eligible to participate in a sport if the student has engaged in that sport professionally or who has been a member of a college squad or who has trained with a college squad, or participated in a college contest.
   6. All contestants must be enrolled and in good standing (this includes course work taken under the provisions of post-secondary enrollment options for which a school or accredited nonpublic school grants academic credit toward high school graduation):    If at the end of a semester grading period, a contestant/student receives a failing grade in any course for which credit is awarded, the contestant/student is ineligible to dress for and compete in the next occurring interscholastic athletic contest and competitions in which the contestant/student is a contestant for 30 consecutive calendar days.  Specifics to the above (underlined) Iowa “Scholarship Rule” 36.15(2) and River Valley policy are explained at the mandatory activities meeting.
   7. Students are expected to be in school all day of a school sponsored activity or practice session in order to participate.  Exceptions must be cleared with the principal for the following:
      1. Appointments for dental, eyeglasses, or funerals
      2. A student may be seen by a medical provider, and if permitted to participate, could return and do so with written permission from the attending medical provider.
      3. If the student misses part of a day, students will be required to attend practice but not allowed to participate.  The exceptions above will apply to this rule.
      4. At Principal’s discretion.

   h.    Every student wishing to participate in school sponsored interscholastic will be required to have a physical examination by a licensed medical practitioner prior to participation/practice.   Each person wishing to participate in an athletic program at River Valley must go to the physician of their choice for a physical examination.  Each physical examination will be good for one calendar year form the date of the examination.  A dated copy of the physical examination form must be on file at the school prior to participation by the student in any interscholastic athletic contest or practice.  The cost of the physical examination will be the responsibility of the participant.

    

    

2. GENERAL TRANSFER RULE

A student who transfers from one school district to another school district, except upon a contemporaneous change in parental residence, shall be ineligible for a period of 90 school days.

       

Exceptions:

• A student who has attended high school in a district other than where the student’s parent(s) resides and who subsequently returns to live with the student’s parents/guardians become immediately eligible in the resident district.
• A student who residence changes due to any of the following circumstances is immediately eligible, providing the student meets all other eligibility requirements:

• Adoption
• Placement in foster or shelter-care
• Participation in a foreign exchange program, recognized by the school of attendance
• Placement in juvenile correction facility
• Participation in substance abuse program
• Participation in a mental health program
• Court decree that the student is a ward of the state or court
• Student is living with one of the parents/guardians as a result of a divorce decree, separation, death, or other change in the student’s parents/guardians’ marital relationship.
• Students who have been emancipated by marriage or by reaching the age of majority, the Executive Board is empowered to consider all circumstances with regards to the transfer.
  • Students who attend in a school district that is a party to a cooperation participation agreement with the student’s resident district and the new school district of attendance, the student is immediately eligible.
  • Any student whose parents/guardians change district of residence but who remains in the original district without interruption in attendance is eligible in the school district of attendance.
  • A special education student whose attendance center changes due to a change in placement agreed to by the district of residence is eligible in either the resident district or the district of attendance, but not both.

•  

  1. OPEN ENROLLMENT TRANSFERS:

  Students in grades 10-12 whose transfer was due to open enrollment are ineligible for 90 school days.  The 90-school day’s period of ineligibility does not apply if the student:

  1. Participates in an athletic activity in receiving district that is not available in the resident district.
  2. Participates in an athletic activity for which the resident and receiving districts have a cooperation student participation agreement.
  3. Has paid tuition for one or more years to the receiving district prior to making application for and being granted open enrollment.
  4. Has attended in the receiving district for one or more years prior to making application and being granted open enrollment under a sharing or mutual agreement between the resident and receiving districts.
  5. Has been participating in open enrollment and whose parents/guardians/guardians move out of their district of residence, but exercise either the option of remaining in the original open enrollment district or enrolling in the new district of residence.  If athletic eligibility had been established under open enrollment, it is continued despite the parents/guardians/guardians change in residence.
  6. Has not been participating in open enrollment but utilizes open enrollment to remaining the original district of residence following a change of residence of the parents/guardians.  If the student has established athletic eligibility, it continues despite the parents/guardians/guardians change in residence.
  7. Obtains open enrollment due to the district of residence entering into a whole grade sharing agreement.
  8. Participates in open enrollment and the parent/guardian is an active member of the armed forces and resides in permanent housing on government property, provided by a branch of the armed services.

   

   

  IV.   NONSCHOOL TEAM PARTICIPATION RULE (Board Policy 504.6)

  A high school student who participates in school sponsored athletics may participate in a non-school sponsored sport during the same season.  Such outside participation will not conflict with the school sponsored athletic activity.

   

   

  V.    CODE OF CONDUCT

  This “Extra-Curricular/Co-Curricular Code of Conduct” is designed to provide a consistent, positive, and safe environment for all students at all secondary schools in the River Valley School District.  The terms of this code apply to students who represent their school in an activity that is sponsored by the school.   Students that have the opportunity to represent our district are expected to act in an appropriate manner.  This code applies to all participants at all times on or off of campus.  This conduct code is considered to be a 24/7 policy.  Students are required to follow this policy 24 hours per day and 7 days every week each and every day of the year. This code applies to all students participating in athletics, music ensembles, speech, drill team, cheerleading, national honor society, student council, school plays/musicals, or any other extra-curricular or co-curricular activity.  No student is obligated to participate in these activities.  Participation is not required for advancement or for graduation.  Students participating in these activities are expected to conduct themselves to meet the highest of expectations.

   

  Violations of this Code of Conduct must be reported to the Principal or his designee.  It is the policy of the River Valley Community Schools not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, disability, national origin, or ancestry.  Students who participate in extra-curricular/co-curricular activities must agree to the following:

   

  I will not knowingly sell, distribute, use, possess, purchase, or attempt to purchase any mood-altering chemicals, drugs, or alcohol while I am a student of River Valley High School.  Any student found to have engaged in the inhalation of chemicals that will have a mood altering affect shall be in violation of this policy.  Any purchase, possession or use of any such substances that are obtained and taken pursuant to a valid prescription or order of a medical provider shall not be a violation of this policy.  I understand that the possession or use of tobacco of any kind (smoking or chewing) is not permitted.

   

  I will not engage in any act that would be grounds for arrest or citation in the criminal or juvenile court system, excluding minor traffic offenses or adjudication.

   

  Periods of ineligibility under the terms of this policy will be effective immediately by decision of  the administration upon either receipt of notification from law enforcement officials of either the issuance of a juvenile citation or warrant of arrest, or upon self-admission by a student to conduct that violates this code of conduct.

   

  • FIRST VIOLATION WITHIN THE STUDENT’S HIGH SCHOOL CAREER:  The student will be ineligible for 3 weeks in a previously scheduled extracurricular/co-curricular activity where the student would otherwise have represented the school (district), beginning the first date after either receipt of notification from law enforcement officials, or the first date after self-admission by a student. The period of ineligibility will take place only during the school year or summer months when extra curricular/co-curricular activities are in session.  (Students who have fulfilled the requirements following their first violation, and thereafter remain violation free for twelve (12) consecutive months, start over with a clear record.  This opportunity may be applied only once during a student’s school career.)
  • SECOND VIOLATION WITHIN THE STUDENT’S HIGH SCHOOL CAREER:  The student shall be ineligible for the next six (6) weeks of previously scheduled extra-curricular/co-curricular activities where the student would otherwise have represented the school (district).  The first date of ineligibility shall be the first date after either receipt of notification from law enforcement officials or the first date after self-admission by a student.
  • THIRD AND ALL SUBSEQUENT VIOLATIONS WITH THE STUDENT’S HIGH SCHOOL CAREER:  The student shall be ineligible for participation in any extra-curricular/co-curricular activity for twelve (12) months.

   

  VI. DUE PROCESS

   

  1. 1. Administrative Team shall conduct an informal investigation of the charges being brought against the student.
     2. An informal hearing shall be held by the Administrative Team and they shall give the student oral and/or written notice of the allegations.  The student shall be advised of the basis in fact for the charges and the student will be afforded the opportunity to respond to the charges. 
     3. The Administrative Team will document the basis and procedure used for each and every declaration of ineligibility.
     4. Notice of the ineligibility will be mailed no later than the end of the following school day to the student’s parent/guardian, superintendents, and the president of the Board of Education.  The written notice should include circumstances involving the student which led to the ineligibility.  Also stated will be the duration of the ineligibility and the date on which the student shall again be eligible.
     5. APPEAL.  The student shall be afforded the opportunity to appeal any action of ineligibility to the Board of Education within five (5) school days of receipt of notification of ineligibility.  Upon receipt of the written notice of ineligibility, the student and/or parent/guardian shall present oral and/or written notice to the Superintendent requesting an appeal.

      

     VII. PRACTICE SESSIONS

  2. All practice sessions must be scheduled through the principal via the activities director.  Practice sessions shall not extend beyond two and one-half hours.  No Sunday practices will take place without permission from the superintendent.  Athletes shall not be subject to any form of reprimand and/or punishment for not attending Sunday practices. Practices and schedules of practices shall be handled by the head coaches.  All practices will be supervised by coaches.
  3. At no time shall any elementary, middle school, or non-high school students be allowed to practice or scrimmage with all or any part of a high school squad during an organized practice session.
  4. Students will not be allowed in the weight room without the direct supervision of staff members.
  5. Wednesday nights have been designated as open night.  Practices will not extend beyond 5:45 p.m. on open night.
  6. No group activities will be held on Sunday, holidays, or Wednesday nights without permission from the Superintendent.

  Exceptions:   

  1. 1. Commencement exercises held on Sunday afternoon.
        1. Activities scheduled by the state, conference, or other schools.

     2.  

        VIII.   MULTIPLE AND DUAL SPORTS PARTICIPATION

     3. Multiple participation:  This is a year round situation.  Examples would be summer leagues or camps for all sports during the BB & SB seasons, club BKB and VB during track & golf, or BB & SB pitchers practicing during the BKB season.  As long as all of these types of activities are under state guidelines, we encourage them.  Students and coaches involved should cooperate and communicate to avoid problems and/or conflicts.  The school activity takes priority during game conflicts.
     4. Dual sports:  Track and golf, football and cross country, volleyball and cross country.  Students are allowed to participate in more than one sport at a time.  In order for this to work, the student and coaches involved must meet with the activities director to work out a practice and meet/game/match plan.
     5. Seasons running over:  This occurs in the spring when softball and baseball practice begins before the track and golf seasons have been completed.  In all cases, students should complete golf and track before beginning softball or baseball.  The only exception would be an agreement with the golf/track coaches and the activities director.
     6. Any further problems or conflicts should be brought to the attention of the HS administrative team.
     7. Dual sports (quitting one sport and starting the other):  Once the meets/games/matches have started, a student cannot quit one sport and start the other.  Any exceptions to this rule would be handled by the HS administrative team.

      

     IX.  ATHLETIC EQUIPMENT/UNIFORMS

  2. Athletes are expected to wear only the equipment issued from the equipment room.  Exceptions shall be cleared through the coach.
  3. Equipment must be turned in at the end of each season.  A student may not participate in interscholastic competition or practice of a new season until all equipment from the past sport has been checked in. 
  4. Uniforms are to be worn only while actually participating in an event or with permission from the head coach or sponsor.

   

  X.  ACTIVITY TRIPS

   River Valley Community Schools will provide transportation to and from school-sponsored activities for students involved.  Students are expected to be on the player buses to and from contests.

  EXCEPTIONS:

          1.   Parent/Guardians may:

                a. On the day before the event, call or leave a written message with the principal stating that they or another designated adult (name) will provide transportation.  The principal will give the coach a written confirmation of this message.

  b. Personally give the sponsor/chaperone at the activity site a note stating that they will be responsible for their child’s transportation home.

  2.   Any time a student is transported home by parent or designated adult, that adult will be required to sign for said student.

          3.   For special circumstances, the principal may allow exceptions to this policy.

   

  XI. LEAVING EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES

   

  Students who leave games, dances, or other school activities may not re-enter.  Chaperones may make adjustments for special circumstances.

   

  XII. TRIPS

   

  River Valley High School will not sponsor activity trips for students to events in which the students are not competing or participating. Any team that qualifies for state or all-state competition shall be allowed to attend that event. The administration, coach, and activities director will establish the departure time for student and coach.  Individual students are not to travel as part of the participating team’s entourage.

   

  If a team competes at the state level River Valley High School may sponsor an activity bus on the day of the event. A minimum of thirty students must sign-up 48 hours prior to ETD. All expenses are to be borne by those riding the bus.

   

  XIII. OTHER ACTIVITIES

  a.   Homecoming 

  1. Student Council sponsors all related activities.

  2. Dance - only school-sponsored dance open to public, 12:00 a.m. ending - open to grades 9-12 and adults.

  b.   Junior-Senior Banquet and Prom:

  1.   Juniors, seniors, and their guests attend with approval of a faculty sponsor.

  2.  Guest must be enrolled in the 9th grade or higher

  c.   Class Activities

  • Class Officers:  

              President                                                                           Vice President

              Secretary                                                                           Treasurer

             Two Student Council Members

  d. Class funds - All purchases and bills must be approved by the class sponsor and the office.

  1. Sponsors will be assigned to each class.  Sponsors must approve and attend all class activities and obtain additional chaperones as needed.

   

  NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY SELECTION PROCESS:  Selection to the National Honor Society is a privilege, not a right.  This honor, recognized throughout the nation, is both the public recognition of accomplishment and the private commitment to continued excellence on the part of the new member.  Students are considered for membership based on outstanding performance in four areas:  scholarship, leadership, service, and character.

  -To be considered for induction into the National Honor Society, a student must be a sophomore, junior, or senior with a minimum GPA of 3.0.  The next step is to be nominated by several faculty members with consideration based on leadership, service and character.  After being nominated, each student is rated on a scale of 1 to 4 by the entire faculty.  Using this information, the Faculty Council decides which students to invite to fill out a Student Activity Form.  After the form has been filled out, the Faculty Council reviews the information and assigns points to each section of the form for each student.  During this stage, the Faculty Council members make their determinations based solely on the information included on the form.  Students who obtain a minimum number of points are then invited to join the local chapter of the NHS.

         e.Participants in other activities not listed above will be given rules and regulations by their sponsors or coaches.

   

  SCHOOL PRIDE AND SCHOOL SPIRIT

  River Valley is proud of its community; and the community is proud of its school.  The people realize that their children need the best education available, and they take great interest to see that the best is provided.

   

  This is your school.  Be constructive and put forth your best effort and River Valley will be proud of you.

   

  School spirit is pride, school spirit is participation as a spectator,  a cheerleader, or  a player; school spirit is emotion;  school spirit is cooperation and participation in activities and the pride you take in all the accomplishments of  these fine organizations.  School spirit is you, the student body of River Valley!

   

   

  SCHOOL SONG

  We’re River Valley Wolverines

  And Our Victory is Sealed.

  Our Team is Strong and Full of Power

  When We Take the Playing Field

  We Are Wolverines, We Wear the Colors Red & Gray

  When We Play With Honor All the People Will Say

  We’re River Valley Wolverines

  We’re the Best of Any Team!

   

  Section VIII:  SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

   

  WHAT IS OPEN ENROLLMENT?

  Open enrollment was legislated by the Iowa General Assembly to permit a wide range of educational choices for children enrolled in Iowa schools and to maximize ability to use those choices. 

   

  OPEN ENROLLMENT DEADLINES TIMELINE/PROCEDURES

  JULY 1                                    APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE ON THE WEBSITE www.state.ia.us/educate/

   

  September 1                          SCHOOL DISTRICTS MUST NOTIFY PARENTS/GUARDIANS OF OPEN ENROLLMENT   DEADLINES, TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE, AND POSSIBLE LOSS OF  ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY.

   

  By JANUARY 1 OF THE PRECEDING YEAR PARENT/GUARDIAN SENDS APPLICATION TO BOTH THE RESIDENT            AND RECEIVING DISTRICTS

   

  *  If good cause provisions supply or the student is entering kindergarten, the application may be made after January 1.  The deadline is on or before the Thursday before the third Friday on September.  281 IAC 17.4(1) and 281 IAC 17.7

   

  NO LATER THAN MARCH 1             RECEIVING DISTRICT ACTS ON APPLICATION                                                     

  WITHIN 15 DAYS OF             RECEIVING DISTRICT NOTIFIES PARENT/GUARDIAN, RESIDENT DISTRICT,

  RECEIVING DISTRICT           DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION OF DISPOSITION OF APPLICATION.

  BOARD ACTION                                                *  If approved, student attends receiving district the following year.       

   

  THURSDAY BEFORE  THE 3^rd FRIDAY IN SEPTEMBER      DEADLINE FOR GOOD CAUSE              .

   

  30 DAYS AFTER              IF THE APPLICATON WAS FILED BECAUSE OF HARASSMENT OR SERIOUS

  A DENIAL                            ILLNESS A BOARD DECISION TO DENY THE REQUEST MAY BE MADE TO THE IOWA STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION.

   

  Parents/guardians/Guardians of open enrolled students whose income falls below 160% of the federal poverty guidelines are eligible for transportation assistance. This may be in the form of actual transportation or cash stipend.

  Parents/guardians should be aware that open enrollment may result in the loss of athletic eligibility.

   

  COMMUNICABLE DISEASE POLICY:  (Board Policy 507.3)

  Students with communicable disease will be allowed to attend school provided their presence does not create a substantial risk of illness or transmission to other students or employees.  The term “communicable disease” will mean an infectious or contagious disease spread from person to person, or animal to person, or as defines by law.

  The health risk to immuno-suppressed students is determined by their personal physician.  The health risk to others in the school district environment from the presence of a student with a communicable disease is determined on a case-by-case basis by the student’s personal physician, a physician chosen by the school district or public health officials.

   

  A student who is at school and who has a communicable disease which creates a substantial risk of harm to other students, employees, or others at school will report the condition to the Superintendent any time the student is aware that the disease actively creates such risk.

  Students with contagious disease are to be excluded from school for the period of time that their condition may endanger the health of others.  A signed permit from a doctor may be required for re-entry if so designated by the superintendent of schools or their representative.

  All known cases of communicable diseases (as defined by the Iowa Department of Health) shall be reported to the superintendent.  The superintendent shall provide information with regard to cases of communicable disease only as required by law and as is necessary to assure appropriate handling of the student's case.  Refer to school board policies.

  CORPORAL PUNISHMENT POLICY: (Board Policy 503.5)

  Corporal punishment is defined as the intentional physical punishment of a student and is prohibited.  It includes the use of unreasonable or unnecessary physical force or physical contact made with the intent to harm or cause pain.  No employee is prohibited from:

                  Using incidental, minor, or reasonable physical contact to maintain order and control.

                  Using reasonable and necessary force, not designed or intended to cause pain, in order to                                 accomplish any of the following:

  1. 1. To quell a disturbance or prevent an act that threatens physical harm to any person.
        1. To obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous object within a pupil's control.
           1. For the purposes of self-defense or defense of others as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.3.
           2. For the protection of property as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.4 or 704.5.
           3. To remove a disruptive pupil from class or any area of school premises or from school-sponsored activities off school premises.
           4. To protect a student from the self-infliction of harm.
           5. To protect the safety of others.

        2. LOCATIONS OF EDUCATION RECORDS:

           All educational records including academic records, attendance records, health records, and special education records are kept in the building of attendance for each student.

           STUDENT RECORDS:  (Board Policy 506.1)

           The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents/guardians and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records.  They are:

        3. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the district receives a request for access.

     2. Parents/guardians or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect.  The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

     3. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading or in violation of the student’s privacy rights.

     Parents/guardians or eligible students may ask the school district to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading.  They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.

     If the district decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the district will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

  2. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

   

  One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.  A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditory, AEA employees, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee or student assistance team, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

   

  A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

   

  Upon request, the district discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

   

  1. The right to inform the school district that the parent does not want directory information, as defined below, to be released.  Any student over the age of eighteen or parent not wanting this information released to the public must make objection in writing by September 1 to the principal.  The objection needs to be renewed annually.

  NAME, ADDRESS, TELEPHONE LISTING, EMAIL ADDRESS, DATE AND PLACE OF BIRTH, MAJOR FIELD OF STUDY, PARTICIPATION IN OFFICIALLY RECOGNIZED ACTIVITIES AND SPORTS, WEIGHT AND HEIGHT OF MEMBERS OF ATHLETIC TEAMS, DATES OF ATTENDANCE, DEGREES AND AWARDS RECEIVED, THE MOST RECENT PREVIOUS SCHOOL OR INSTITUTION ATTENDED BY THE STUDENT, PHOTOGRAPH AND LIKENESS AND OTHER SIMILAR INFORMATION.

   

  1. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA.  The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. department of Education, 400 Maryland Ave., SW, Washington, DC, 20202-4605

   

  The School District may share any information with the Parties contained in a student’s permanent record which is directly related to the juvenile justice system’s ability to effectively serve the student.  Prior to adjudication information contained in the permanent record may be disclosed by the school district to the Parties without parental consent or court order.  Information contained in a student’s permanent record may be disclosed by the School District to the parties after adjudication only with parental consent or a court order.  Information shared pursuant to the agreement is used solely for determining the programs and services appropriate to the needs of the student or student’s family or coordinating the delivery of programs and services to the student or student’s family.  Information shared under the agreement is not admissible in any court proceedings which take place prior to a disposition hearing, unless written consent is obtained from a student’s parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian.  This agreement only governs a school district’s ability to share information and the purposes for which that information can be used.

   

  When a record contains information about students other than a parent’s child or eligible student, the parent or eligible student may not inspect and review the records of the other students.

  The purpose for the sharing of information prior to a student’s adjudication is to improve school safety, reduce alcohol and illegal drug use, reduce truancy, reduce in-school and out-of-school suspensions, and to support alternatives to in-school and out-of-school suspensions and expulsions which provide structured and well supervised educational programs supplemented by coordinated and appropriate services designed to correct behaviors that lead to truancy, suspension, and expulsions and to support students in successfully completing their education.

   

  The party requesting the information will contact the principal of the building in which the student is currently enrolled or was enrolled.  The principal will forward the records within 10 business days of the request.

   

  Confidential information shared between the Parties and the school district will remain confidential and will not be shared with any other person, unless otherwise provided by law.  Information shared under the agreement is not admissible in any court proceedings which take place prior to a disposition hearing, unless written consent is obtained from a student’s parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian.

   

  Transfer of Such Records:

                  1.  To another school (elementary or secondary), parents/guardians/guardians will be informed.

  2.     To anywhere other than “1” above, written consent must be presented for release by student if 18, or by parent or guardian.

  Purging of Student Records:  Student records will be purged after 5 years.  Personal data, grades, attendance and test scores will be kept on file.