| Home | Profile | Calendar | Newsletters | Staff | Documents | Contact Us

SK Schools Home Departments Applied Learning English Fine Arts Foreign Language Guidance Health & P.E. Library Mathematics Music Science Social Studies Special Education School Links Athletics Class of 2011 Co-Currricular Graduation Portfolio Literacy Enhancement ParentCONNECT Photos PTG Rebellion School Improvement Plan Student Handbook Yearbook

Respect for Our Past, Present, and Future SOUTH KINGSTOWN HIGH SCHOOL 215 Columbia Street Wakefield, RI 02879 http://hs.skschools.net/ 401 360-1000 TTY: 1-800-745-5555 2008-2009 PRINCIPAL Robert McCarthy ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL Kevin Cronin Cheri Guerra Robert Young                                              ATHLETIC DIRECTOR                       SCHOOL NURSE                  Terrence Lynch                                Linda Jennings DEPARTMENT CHAIRPERSONS Micahel Alper  English Beth Casagrande  Unifed Arts Neile DiNitto   Science Cathy Fogarty  Social Studies Kelly Lloyd  Business Cathy Pastore  Foreign Language Rose Majeika  Guidance Mary McSally  Special Education Martha Spiewak  Math Keith Vellone  Physical Education/Health                                                   NEW DIPLOMA SYSTEM COORDINATOR                         Kristin Klenk                         SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER                                                  Montafix Houghton               South Kingstown Police Department          This school planner belongs to    To Parents/Guardians: The Administration of South Kingstown High School requests that both parents and students read the student handbook carefully and become familiar with its content.  Within these pages you will find the rules of our school, an explanation of services and programs we offer, and our expectations for the education of your child. We hope you will find this information useful and look forward to working with you so that your child may experience a rewarding school year. Both you and your child should sign this form and return it to the student’s Advisor. _________________________________________________________________       __________________ Student Name (please print)                                             Year of Graduation _________________________________________________________________       __________________ Student Signature                                                       Date _________________________________________________________________ Advisor and Room Number _________________________________________________________________       __________________ Parent/Guardian Signature                       Date ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INFORMED CONSENT In order to create an optimally safe environment for your child, health information pertinent to the classroom setting may be included on a confidential medical list.  The list is distributed annually to each staff member, on a “need to know” basis, allowing the staff member to recognize symptoms and initiate a plan of action if necessary.  If there is health information that you would prefer not be on this list, please contact the school nurse/teacher.  Your signature indicates consent for your child’s inclusion on the list. _________________________________________________________________       __________________ Parent/Guardian Signature                       Date _________________________________________________________________       __________________ Student Name                    Date Transportation information: Please indicate which mode of transportation is employed. Bus Number: ________________     Walker ________        Drive: __________ SOUTH KINGSTOWN SCHOOL DEPARTMENT Internet Access Policy Review Acknowledgement South Kingstown High School Name______________________________________________  Grade_________   Date________________         Please print name I have reviewed the South Kingstown School Department’s Technology Policy 6152.5 on Internet access, on page 20, and will follow all of the rules governing the use of technologies in school.  Failure to follow the rules may result in the loss of my using the technologies. _______________________________________          _____________________________________ Student Signature                                Parent or Legal Guardian Signature ___________________________________________________________________________________ Signature of Library Media Specialist or Technology Media Specialist Request to Withhold Selected Student Information (Parents, Guardians, Students over 18) Please DO NOT release the following directory information without my prior written consent: Name of student(s):     ____________________________________________               _____________                 Please print name(s)                                        Year of Graduation ___     Name ___     Participation in recognized activities/sports ___     Address, telephone, and email ___     Weight and height for athletic team members ___     Photograph ___     Degrees, honors, and awards ___     Date and place of birth ___     Dates of attendance and grade level Please DO NOT release the name, address, or telephone listing without my prior written consent: Name of student(s):     _________________________________________________________ To:  ___ Military Recruiters                             ___ Post-Secondary Institutions Parent/Legal Guardian/Student over 18: _________________________________________________________________       __________________ Signature                                                               Date PLEASE RETURN TO YOUR ADVISOR MISSION South Kingstown High School, in partnership with our diverse and dynamic community, will provide an environment in which each student acquires the knowledge and develops the skills necessary to become a respectful, healthy, productive, and responsible citizen in an ever-changing global society. SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT TEAM The School Improvement Team’s mission is to promote the academic experience of all students.  Students, parents, and community members are encouraged to participate on this committee.   School Improvement Goals: All students will be exposed to a variety of reading materials and strategies that focus on summarizing, paraphrasing and inferring; these skills will result in their improved ability to comprehend and become critical readers. All students will write effectively by organizing writing, establishing a topic and a context, using evidence and reasoning across the curriculum. All students will be able to read and interpret pictorial graphics. All students and staff will clearly articulate and implement the behavioral expectations in all school settings.  (See pages 6 and 7 for the behavior matrix related to Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).) PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS Please visit SKHS’s website for the most current information:  fc.skschools.net/SKHS/Graduation_Portfolio Each student will submit evidence into his/her portfolio that demonstrates proficiency in our nine Student Learning Expectations (SLEs).  All portfolio entries must be approved by a teacher and include a rubric and reflection (when specified) prior to submission to the portfolio. Academic Expectations – SLE 1, SLE 2, SLE 3 and SLE 4 A1.) SLE 1 - All students will acquire and analyze information, think critically, and use logic in problem solving. Students will submit: -  at least one research paper in the humanities using MLA -  three math projects from at least two different mathematics courses      -  three lab reports from at least two different science courses -  an inquiry-based project (any course)  A2.) SLE 2 - All students will utilize effective literacy skills: communication, writing effectiveness, reading analysis and interpretation. Students will reflect write and reflect upon four of the following:         -  expository essay -  response to literature                                                        -  narrative account         -  narrative procedure                                                   -  critique or production of a public document                                   -  persuasive essay         -  reflective essay Students will deliver an:         -  individual oral presentation Students will provide an: -  analysis of a public speaking performance Students will maintain an: -annotated list of at least 15 favorite books read over four years with selections from fiction and non- fiction, including at least three of the following genres:  poetry, drama, folklore, mythology, modern fantasy, science fiction, or graphic novels.  The list will include the date of reading, author, title and brief summary A3.) SLE 3 - All students will meet performance standards for technological literacy in their classes.* A4.) SLE 4 - All students will appreciate a variety of art forms.* Civic Expectations - SLE 5, SLE 6 and SLE 7 C5.) SLE 5 - All students will recognize diversity and balance individual freedom with the needs and rights of others. Students will complete two of the following: -  an assignment that addresses the concept of diversity -  a project that addresses the balance of individual freedoms with the needs and rights of others     -  a community service learning project that addresses diversity or individual freedoms and/or the rights of others and reflect on the experience C6.) SLE 6 - All students will participate responsibly in the school community. Students will submit: 2 recommendations completed by two adults from the school community who can document the student’s responsible participation at SKHS   C7.) SLE 7 - All students will act responsibly concerning political, environmental, social, and economic issues that affect the present and future health of our community and world. Students will choose a piece or work from a course that: documents understanding of the connection between the present and future health of our  community and the world to a chosen area (political, environmental, social, economic) or a community service learning project that addresses political, environmental, social or economic issues that affect the present and future health of our community and world. Social Expectations – SLE 8 and SLE 9 S8.) SLE 8 - All students will identify goals, set priorities, and manage their own progress. Students will: -  create, manage and prioritize their student portfolio -  complete an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) with the support of their school counselor S9.) SLE 9 - All students will be able to make appropriate choices affecting their physical, social, and/or emotional well-being. Students will: choose a piece of work from a course that documents understanding of the connection between physical, social and emotional well- being. *Please refer to fc.skschools.net/SKHS/Graduation_Portfolio for information on Proficiency in Arts and Technology. Requirements for a Graduation Portfolio according to the Rhode Island Department of Education: At a minimum the Graduation Portfolio must contain: At least one entry from each of the core areas:  Mathematics, English Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, the Arts and Technology demonstrating application of the content knowledge and skills. At least one entry demonstrating each of the applied learning skills:  communication, problem solving, critical thinking, research, social/personal responsibility, and interpersonal in an extended independent task. The entries may provide evidence of both content knowledge and applied learning skills. The entries should allow for some student choice to allow students to showcase an area of interest or expertise. Formative student reflections for specific tasks or entries Evaluation of each entry using valid and reliable rubrics or a review process. Summative reflection on collection of entries in the Graduation Portfolio that includes:   Reflection on best work in the portfolio How the body of work is connected to personal, academic, and career goals (beyond high school) and to the school’s learning expectations The learning process and progress as represented by the collection of evidence selected for inclusion in the Graduation Portfolio Final review process by a review panel that provides an opportunity for students to present their graduation portfolio to a panel with teachers, administrators, and community members.  It is recommended that the final review be an oral presentation. SKHS PBIS Behavior Matrix SCHOOL-WIDE Classrooms Hallways & Lobbies BATHROOMS Cafeteria Auditorium Self Respect Yourself •Take advan-tage of learning opportuni-ties. •Show self-respect in the way you dress. •Be prompt.   •Be prepared.   •Be a partici-pant. •Arrive to class on time. •Behave with decorum. •Carry a pass. •Carry a pass. •Practice good hygiene. •Return to class promptly. •Eat responsibly. •Show up and be seated promptly. •Attend assemblies with an open mind. Others Respect Others •Treat others with courtesy at all times. •Use respectful language. •Be attentive to teachers and class-mates.   •Cooperate   •Offer your help. •Respond courteously to staff. •Keep your volume down. •Respect others’ space and property. •Use civil language. •Report problems to staff. •Flush. •Be patient in line. •Speak courteously to staff. •Stay quiet and seated during pre-sentations. •Let others enjoy the presenta-tions. •Be cour-teous to those on stage. School Respect SKHS •Follow the rules in the SKHS hand-book. •Help main-tain and improve the school envi-ronment. •Clean up after your-self. •Conserve resources. •Help keep hall-ways clean and graffiti-free. •Help keep bathrooms clean and graffiti-free. •Clean up after your-self. •Push your chair in. •Recycle. •Keep food and drinks in the cafeteria. •Help keep the auditorium in good shape. •Keep food and bever-ages out.   •Keep your feet off the seats. Parking Lot & Grounds Field Trips Offices Library / Media Center / Computer Labs GYMnasium / Athletic fields AFter-School Activities (Clubs, Sports, etc.) Self Respect Yourself •Arrive on time and enter the school promptly. •Dress appro-priately for the activity. •Bring signed permission / medical slips. •Visit offices only for official reasons. •Do your work. •Access appropriate websites only. •Wear appropriate clothes and shoes. •Participate to the best of your ability. •Participate actively. Others Respect Others •Observe speed limits and traffic flow in the parking lot.   •Pay attention to people walking and driving. •Use civil lan-guage at all times. •Follow school bus safety rules. •Be prompt.- •Speak politely to staff, students, and visitors. •Keep voices down. •Speak politely to staff and students. •Be patient and wait your turn. •Return materials on time. •Listen and follow the rules of the game, for safety’s sake. •Be aware of the others around you. •Show good sportsman-ship. •Make visitors feel welcomed. •Show good sportsman--ship. School Respect SKHS •Keep school grounds clean. •Place trash in recep-tacles. •Park in designated parking spaces. •Follow SKHS school rules while on any field trip.   •Represent SKHS proudly by being con-siderate of others. •Allow the staff to do their job. •Treat materials (books, computers, etc.) with care. •Conserve resources. •Clean up after yourself in the gym and locker-room. •Maintain school property and equipment. •Stay in authorized areas only. •Help keep the school clean. SKHS PBIS Behavior Matrix ATTENDANCE POLICY The importance of regular attendance cannot be overemphasized.  In order to obtain the best possible education, it is important for students to attend school on a daily basis.  Studies have clearly demonstrated that there is a positive correlation between good school attendance and academic success.   Classroom instruction is the most important activity at SKHS.  Regardless of a student’s ability and effort, classroom interaction cannot be recaptured.  Absences disrupt the continuity of the learning process.  In addition, students who fail to develop responsible attendance habits will approach their adult life at a distinct disadvantage.  Parents are urged to assist the school by supporting the attendance policy. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY It is the student’s responsibility to be in school on time and attend all classes regularly.  It is also the student’s responsibility to follow the correct attendance and dismissal procedures when not present in class at the start of the period.  If parents choose to take a student out of school for an extended period of time, it is the student’s responsibility to collect and make-up the work. PARENT/GUARDIAN REPONSIBILITY It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to encourage and monitor his/her student’s school attendance, to report all student absences according to the school’s attendance policy and procedures, and to work cooperatively with the school and student to solve any attendance/tardiness problem that may arise.  Parents and guardians should support the importance of school by scheduling doctor and dental appointments, drivers’ examinations during after school hours.  Family vacations should be scheduled in accordance with school vacations.  College visitations should also be scheduled during school vacation.  If parents choose to take a student out of school for an extended period of time, it is their responsibility, along with their child, to make-up the work and if necessary, to provide additional support for completing the work. TEACHER RESPONSIBILITY It is the teacher’s responsibility to maintain an accurate record of daily attendance, to report student’s attendance to the attendance office for purposes of home communication, and hold students accountable for unexcused absences and tardies.  It is also the teacher’s responsibility to communicate attendance concerns to students’ parent/guardian and the school counselor and/or administrators. ADMINISTRATOR RESPONSIBILITY It is the administrator’s responsibility to monitor the attendance policy and procedures and to assist teachers in their efforts to improve student attendance.  Administrators will be responsible for insuring that the attendance office secretaries communicate with the home of absent/tardy students via phone calls.  It is also the administrator’s responsibility to work cooperatively with students, teachers, truant officer and parent/guardians to promote acceptable attendance habits. Absences Every absence is considered “unexcused” unless it has been verified by the attendance office as “excused”. EXCUSED ABSENCES AND DISMISSALS The following absences are considered excused if a note from the parent is provided to the attendance office within three days of the absence: Religious holidays Family emergencies (to be approved by an administrator) School-sponsored activities Funerals Sickness  (a doctor’s note will be requested if sickness prevents a student from attending school for more than five school days over a 15 day period of time)   Students who are absent from a particular class with the permission of an administrator or a faculty member must verify the absence as excused through the attendance office. MAKE-UP WORK FOR EXCUSED ABSENCES A student who has excused absences must contact the teacher within two days of his/her return to school for make-up work.  Work cannot be made up until the absence has been verified as excused.  The teacher and student can decide upon a mutually agreeable timeline for the work to be completed. Students who are excused from a specific class due to an appointment with a guidance counselor, assistant principal, etc., will be allowed to make up the work provided that they inform the teacher prior to the appointment whenever possible and the student contacts the teacher by the end of the day to make up any missed work. CONSEQUENCES FOR UNEXCUSED ABSENCES Students will receive a “0” for their missed work on the day or period of the unexcused absence. Students will receive an administrative detention for each class missed.  However, if three or more classes are missed then students will be considered truant (see consequences for truancy). All assigned administrative detentions must be served within three days of the infraction.  Students who fail to serve detention within the three days will not be allowed to participate in extra-curricular activities until the detention is completed. ABSENCE NOTIFICATION Teachers will contact parents if a student reaches five unexcused absences in that class. Mid Quarter:  Teachers will report absences from class on mid-quarter reports. Quarter:  Teachers will record absences from class on quarterly report cards. Tenth Absence:  Guidance counselors will set up a conference with the student, parents, teacher and assistant principal after the tenth absence in any class.  If the parent fails to respond, the student is referred to truancy court.  Additional consequences and supports such as removal from extra-curricular activities and tutoring may be considered. For additional information on South Kingstown School Department’s policy on Truancy (8415), please refer to http://fc.skschools.net/School_Committee. Tardy to School South Kingstown High School does not distinguish between excused and unexcused tardies.  Students who have an outstanding personal or medical circumstance that prevents them from coming to school on time should contact their guidance counselor.  Students who arrive to school late must sign in at the attendance office where they will receive a pass to class.  However, teachers will retain the right to send students back to the office if the interruption causes a disturbance.   CONSEQUENCES FOR TARDY TO SCHOOL (by semester) Fourth Tardy to School:  Students will be assigned a one-hour office detention for tardies 4-7. Eighth Tardy to School:  Students will be assigned a three-hour detention for tardies 7-10. More than Ten Tardies to School:  Students will lose the privilege of participating in extra-curricular activities, field trips, and will lose parking privileges at SKHS after the tenth tardy.   NOTIFICATION OF TARDY TO SCHOOL Each Tardy:  Parents will be notified by the automated telephone system each time their son/daughter is tardy to school. Tenth Tardy:  The attendance office will notify the assistant principal and the guidance counselor after the tenth tardy to school.  The guidance counselor will set up a conference with the student, parents, teacher and assistant principal.  If the parent fails to respond, the student will be referred to truancy court; additional consequences and supports may be considered. MAKE-UP WORK FOR TARDIES Any work missed due to tardiness to class needs to be made up the same day that the student is tardy. Students must contact the teacher by the end of the day to make up the work.   Tardy to Class Each student and teacher has the right to expect class time free of interruptions such as a student coming into class late without a verifiable excuse.   Students who are tardy to class without a pass will receive a teacher-assigned detention.  Students will not be allowed extra time to make up work if they arrive are tardy without a pass.   Students will be allowed to enter class with a pass from a staff member at any time without any consequences.  However, teachers will retain the right to send students to the office if the interruption causes a disturbance.   Participation in Co-Curricular Activities In order to participate in a co-curricular activity sponsored by SKHS, students must be present in school during the day.  Co-curricular activities include but are not limited to, drama and music rehearsals and productions, proms, school dances, and athletic practices and competitions.  Exceptions for any absence or dismissal on these days must have prior approval of an administrator.  Students who arrive later than 8:30 am or leave earlier than 1:00 pm will not be allowed to participate in a SKHS-sponsored afternoon or evening activity. Excellent Attendance Students who demonstrate excellent attendance will be eligible for the following: A designation on any student’s transcript for “Excellent Attendance” for those students who have been absent/tardy less than four times during the entire school year (excused or unexcused) Awards will be given by department as part of the Awards Ceremonies each spring to students who demonstrate excellent attendance and participation. Appeal Process Students and/or parents who feel aggrieved because of action taken as a result of any section in these regulations may appeal said action to the school administration level at which the action was taken.  Further appeals may be taken to the Superintendent of Schools and finally to the School Committee.  Further appeals after the School Committee decision may be taken through the process as defined in Title 16 of the General Laws of Rhode Island. HOMEWORK REQUEST A request for homework may be made for any legitimate absence of two or more days, and homework can be picked up homework 24 hours after request made.  Call the guidance office to submit homework request. EARLY DISMISSAL In keeping with our efforts to maximize instructional time, early dismissal from school is discouraged, and will be granted only for business that cannot be conducted after the close of school.  Reasons for early dismissal shall be limited to:  illness, doctor’s appointment, court appearance, family emergency verified by the parent, educational reasons given prior approval by the school administration. The nurse is responsible for early dismissals due to illness, and parent verification prior to dismissal is required. Permission for early dismissal is granted by the Assistant Principals.  Request for dismissal must be submitted in writing from a parent/guardian stating the specific reason for the dismissal and listing a telephone for verification.  All such reasons must be in accordance with school committee policy.  Such requests must be presented to the attendance office by (8:30 am) for approval and must be presented to the secretary in the attendance office upon leaving the building.  All dismissed students must report to the attendance office prior to leaving the building.  Students returning to school must sign back into school at the attendance office. Under no circumstances shall a student leave school without first reporting to the attendance office.  Students not reporting to the office prior to leaving may receive a disciplinary consequence. MESSAGES FOR STUDENTS The clerical staff has been instructed not to accept telephone messages for students from anyone other than parents/guardians.  Further, parents are requested to restrict their calls to unusual or unforeseen reasons. Further, students are not permitted to carry beepers or other electronic communication devices in school, in accordance with Public Law 16-21.2-11. AFTER SCHOOL REGULATIONS Students are encouraged to remain after school to participate in extracurricular activities, to obtain extra help when needed, and to complete make-up work.  It should be noted, however, that loitering in or around school after the end of the normal school day is not allowed. Any student riding his/her bicycle to school must wear a helmet. LATE BUS A late bus is provided at approximately 3:15 pm, Mondays through Thursdays, for students who remain after school for school-related business.  Students should wait for the late bus in the attendance office entrance of the building and are required to adhere to all regular rules of bus conduct.  To ride the late bus students must present a student ID. LIBRARY The library is open for student use every period of the week unless otherwise noted.  Students must secure a pass from their classroom teacher unless given a pass from a librarian.  Students using the library must remain for the entire period unless previous arrangements have been made with a staff member. HALL PASS Before a student is dismissed from any classroom, that student MUST have their planner signed, identifying name, date, time, reason for dismissal, and destination or the school-designated hall pass assigned to each classroom teacher.  Students out of class during class time must show their pass to any member of the staff who asks to see it.  Failing to secure a pass may result in disciplinary action. SECTION B – SCHOOL POLICIES DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS The following description of the school’s disciplinary options applies to violations of the school discipline code: Detention:  Students assigned detention by an administrator must report to the assigned location by 2:15 pm and remain until dismissed.   Any student asked to leave detention may be suspended and required to make up the detention upon their return.  Detention will be assigned for one or three hours.  Failure to report to assigned detention may result in a suspension. Parent Conference:  Serious or repeat offenses may require a parent conference among the parties involved to discuss the issues and attempt to resolve the source of conflict. Social Probation:  Certain offenses, including, but not limited to those that occur at school-sponsored extracurricular activities, may result in probation.  During the assigned period of probation the student may not participate in any after-school, evening or extracurricular activities, including athletics as spectator or participant.  Out of school suspension will result in one week of social probation. Athletic Probation:  Refer to the Athletic Handbook regarding penalties for violations of school and athletic rules. In-School Restriction (ISR):  Students assigned ISR will report to the designated room at the beginning of the school day, 7:37 am. Suspension from School:  Students may be suspended from school for a period not to exceed ten school days, following the procedures outlined in Policy #8305.  Suspended students are not allowed on school grounds for the duration of their suspension.  Suspended students found on school property will be subject to an additional day of suspension.  (Note:  Suspended students are prohibited from participation in all activities until reinstated). Expulsion from School:  In extreme cases and for certain offenses, students may be expelled from school for a period of more than ten days.  Such actions are governed by the guidelines established in Policy #8305. DISCIPLINE POLICIES It is impossible to anticipate all of the situations that may occur in a high school, but this handbook attempts to outline the most important disciplinary guidelines for our students.  The school rules that follow and the district-wide policies outlined in Policy #8315 and #8305, attempt to provide a safe and orderly school environment.  A chart outlining consequences for most disciplinary infractions begins on page 12. Insubordination:  In order to ensure a learning environment that is safe and orderly, it is essential that all students follow the direction and requests of all school personnel.  Policy #8305 II.A (4) speaks to the deliberate refusal to obey a member of the school staff, i.e., any administrator, teacher, or aide.  Examples of such directives might include but not be limited to: being asked to leave a classroom to report to the office; being asked to report to the office from the hallway, cafeteria or other location of the school; being asked to remain silent; being asked to move seat locations in a class; being asked to relinquish any personal electronic device or other material or equipment.   Truancy:  Students absent from school without parental permission and a valid excuse (such as illness or family emergency) will be considered truant.  Parents will be notified of the truancy. Any student who is truant will receive a “0” for the class and no make up work will be allowed.  A student who is truant or excessively absent or tardy will be referred to the truant officer or to truancy court as per RI State Law #16-19-1 and South Kingstown School District Policy #8415. Leaving School Without Permission:  Students are not allowed to leave school without permission.  In case of personal emergency or extreme need, students should seek out a building administrator or the school nurse to secure permission to leave.  Violations will result in disciplinary action including suspension. Removal from Class for Disruption:  Students who disrupt class will be instructed by the classroom teacher to leave the room.  In such instances, students must report directly to the office of the Assistant Principal or the designated room for “Counselor of the Day” (COD) where they will remain until a conference about the problem can be held.  Students will receive the appropriate detention(s)/suspension and parents will be notified. Alcohol and Drugs:  The use of alcohol or drugs before school, during school, or prior to any school activity is considered a most serious violation of the school discipline policies and will be dealt with according to the penalties outlined in Policy #8305. Any offense involving alcohol or drugs will result in disciplinary action in accordance with Policy #8305A.   Smoking:  Possession of tobacco products and/or use of them on school property is prohibited at all times (before, during, after school).  Students determined to be in possession of tobacco products shall receive the same disciplinary action as if they had been determined to be using these products.  As a result, students should clearly understand that no tobacco products are to be brought upon school grounds. Policy #8305:  This policy of the South Kingstown School Committee outlines the Suspension/Expulsion policy and procedures for the school district.  Section II of Policy #8305 outlines “breaches of conduct on school property, school transportation, or at any school sponsored activity.”  Students should read this policy, which appears at the end of this handbook, and familiarize themselves with the rules contained therein, for violation of any of these rules constitute grounds for potential suspension/expulsion from school. Confederate Flag:  The Superintendent of Schools has given the Administration the authority to control the display of the Confederate Flag in our school. Any student displaying this symbol of racism will be disciplined following school policy. (District policy #5146) DISCIPLINARY INFRACTION TABLE         Infraction             First Offense         Second Offense            Third Offense      Three plus offenses Arson 5-10 OSS Possible rec for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Weapons 5-10 OSS Possible rec for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Gambling Warning, parent contact 3 hour detention ISR OSS 3 hour detention ISR ISR OSS/SP OSS/SP Cut class 2 detentions 3 hour detention ISR OSS/SP Truancy 3 hour detention “0” on all assignments ISR Referral to truancy officer 2 ISR OSS/SP Cut detention 3 hour detention ISR OSS/SP OSS/SP Fighting 5 days OSS/SP Referral to SAC 5 days OSS/SP Recommendation for expulsion 5 days OSS/SP Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Cheating/Plagiarism Teacher decision Teacher decision ISR Teacher decision 3 days OSS/SP Teacher decision 5 days OSS/SP Theft Restitution 2 – 5 days OSS/SP Parent conference Restitution 5 days OSS/SP Parent conference Restitution 5 days OSS/SP Parent conference Recommendation for expulsion Restitution 2 – 5 days OSS/SP Parent conference Failure to attend teacher detention Detention 3  hour detention ISR OSS/SP Insubordination Detention to OSS/SP ISR to OSS/SP OSS/SP OSS/SP Recommendation for expulsion Under influence of drugs 5 days OSS/SP Referral to SAC 5 days OSS Referral to SAC 60 day extra-curricular suspension Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion In possession of drugs 5 days OSS/SP Referral to SAC 5 days OSS Referral to SAC 60 day extra-curricular suspension Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Dealing drugs 10 days OSS/SP Referral to SAC Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Recommendation for expulsion Leaving school grounds ISR 2 ISR 2 days OSS/SP 2 days OSS/SP Forgery ISR 2 ISR OSS/SP OSS/SP Tobacco use ISR Referral to SAC OSS/SP OSS/SP Recommendation for expulsion Parking violations Lose parking privileges for one month Lose parking privileges for 90 days Lose parking privileges for remainder of school year Profanity Detention to OSS/SP ISR to OSS/SP OSS/SP OSS/SP Vandalism Restitution 3-5 days OSS/SP Restitution 3-5 days OSS/SP Restitution 5 days OSS/SP Recommendation for expulsion Restitution Recommendation for expulsion Key:    ISR (In School Restriction), OSS (Out of School Suspension), SP (Social Probation), and SAC (Student Assistance Counselor) REGULATIONS FOR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES South Kingstown High School recognizes its responsibility to provide a variety of intellectual, educational, and recreational activities for all students. Students are encouraged to attend social, sporting, and other events offered by the school, and proper decorum is expected at all times.  In some instances a deadline for arrival may be established, and students will not be permitted entrance after the stated deadline.  Any students determined to be causing a problem or exhibiting inappropriate behavior will be asked to leave and may be placed on social probation. Included in this policy, and subject to social probation, is inappropriate behavior at any athletic contest, home or away, or any SKHS sponsored events.  Examples of inappropriate behavior include, but are not limited to: use of obscene language; rowdiness; entering on to the court or playing field during the contest; threatening comments or gestures directed at any member of the opposing team. Extracurricular activities shall include but not be limited to all school dances, proms, concerts, picnics, class trips, plays, SK PADES, athletic events on school property or other similar activities.  In addition, it should be noted that seniors who exhibit inappropriate behavior during the period of senior week activities at the close of the senior year will not be permitted to participate in any remaining activities, including graduation. Students should understand that violation of any school rule or School Committee policy at one of these activities shall result in the imposition of penalties as established in this handbook and the Athletic Handbook. These regulations pertain to students’ behavior during all extracurricular activities of the high school in addition to behavior by the students immediately before and after the activities while the students are on school property. DANCE RULES In addition to the rules listed above, the following rules apply to school dances, including proms: All dances, with the exception of proms, begin at 6:30 pm and end at 9:30 pm.  Students may not leave school dances prior to 9:00 unless prior parental arrangements have been made. Admission to dances will close thirty (30) minutes after scheduled start time. If guests are allowed at a dance, they are permitted entrance only if registered previously with the administration and accompanied by an SKHS student. Students who leave a dance prior to its conclusion may not re-enter. Students may not loiter on school grounds prior to, during, or after school dances. Students who are in any way under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be removed immediately from the dance, and parents will be notified.  Adjudication of this infraction will comply with Policy #8305. Students are expected to demonstrate appropriate, respectful behavior. CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY It is the responsibility of all students and staff members, to help maintain the cleanliness of the building.  Therefore, all students are urged to do their part in picking up after themselves and properly disposing of refuse.   Students are responsible for books and materials issued in their name and will be required to pay for any school property that is lost, damaged, or defaced.  Students may not be permitted to take a final exam until obligations have been resolved and will not receive final report cards until all obligations have been met.  In addition, students may be placed on social probation at the beginning of the following school year until all obligations have been met.  Seniors will not be issued transcript until all obligations have been met. Vandalism is addressed as a disciplinary violation and is outlined in Policy #8305.  Deliberate destruction or defacing of school property of any kind shall result in a period of suspension, a period of school probation, restitution, and possible referral to the policy.  There will be no warnings.  Vandalism of personal property will also result in disciplinary actions against the offending individual(s). STUDENT LOCKERS Lockers should be kept locked at all times; it is the responsibility of the student to protect books, clothing and personal belongings.  Items of significant value should not be brought to school.  South Kingstown High School is not responsible for lost or stolen property. Broken/inoperable lockers should be reported for repair to the administration immediately. Lockers may not be defaced; this includes the requirement that no stickers are to be placed either inside or outside of any lockers under any circumstances. Student lockers remain the property of the school department and are thus subject to inspection if circumstances warrant. At the close of the school year, the student shall be responsible for emptying the locker and returning it to the condition in which it was received.  In instances in which this does not occur, this will be considered an obligation addressed under “Care of School Property.” STUDENT DRESS AND DECORUM The tone and atmosphere of a school are affected by the overall appearance and general conduct of its students.  Therefore, students are asked to consider cleanliness, good taste, and appropriateness in the selection of clothing.  If it is determined by the school administration that particular clothing is disruptive to the learning process and/or offensive to community standards, the student may be asked by the school administration to change that clothing.  The parent of the student may also be required to take the student home until the matter is resolved. In recent years, some students have attempted to wear clothing that is inappropriately brief in nature.  This attire has included midriff tops, strapless/backless/halter tops and dresses, short shorts, short skirts, etc.  Such attire is disruptive to the educational environment of the school and is therefore not permitted.  The Administration of the school shall make final judgments in regards to the appropriateness of such attire.  This will be detailed during orientation at the beginning of the school year.  Students are prohibited from wearing hats, headbands or any other headwear during the school day.  Students found in violation will be directed to relinquish the headwear for a period of one week. Students using inappropriate language shall be subject to disciplinary action.  Inappropriate language includes, but is not necessarily limited to, obscene, vulgar statements or comments with sexual connotations; defamatory comments that reflect upon a person’s race, creed, religion or ethnic origin; other comments deemed inappropriate for a school setting. In order to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff, it may become necessary at times for school personnel to conduct searches of students and/or their belongings.  Refusal to cooperate with these searches will result in administration contacting parents and/or police as well as disciplinary action. FIELD TRIP GUIDELINES A field trip is an extension of the school itself, whether on the bus to or from the site or while at the site itself.  Expectations for student behavior and adherence to school rules apply on all field trips as they do at school.  Students causing a problem on any field trip may be excluded from field trips for the remainder of the school year.  Any student who has accumulated excessive absences may be excluded from participation in field trips.  The administration may consult with all of the student’s teachers prior to making a final determination on this matter.  Students accepting the privilege of attendance on any field trip, do so with the knowledge that the school (through its teacher chaperones) has the right to search any student and/or his/her belongings. STUDENT AUTOMOBILES AND PARKING Only seniors with parking permits affixed to their vehicles are allowed to park in the student parking lot.  Seniors must register their automobiles with the school administrations.  A limited number of parking spaces are available. Guidelines Student vehicles are not to be parked in any areas designated for staff in the rear of the HS parking area or in the lots at the Hazard School. Students who use their motor vehicles to leave school without prior parental approval will have their parking privileges revoked and be penalized for leaving school without permission. Student vehicles are to be operated in a safe and reasonable manner at all times and are limited to a speed not to exceed ten miles per hour. Students are not to permit others to ride in the back of pickup trucks.  Student-driven motor vehicles are to proceed in the parking areas in conformity with the directional arrows painted on the pavement. Unnecessary/excessive noise may result in loss of parking privileges. South Kingstown High School is not responsible for damaged or stolen property associated with the parking of any motor vehicle on school property. Vehicles parked on school property are subject to search if warranted. Any automobiles parked in an unauthorized area, or any car parked without a student parking sticker properly affixed, shall be subject to towing at the owner’s expense. VISITORS AND GUESTS All persons with official school business must report directly to the Attendance Office or Main Office to receive a Visitor’s Pass.  Persons on school grounds without such authorization may be subject to arrest for trespassing.  Prior permission from a building administrator, at least one day in advance, is required for all student guests at the high school.  Guests at the high school will remain with their host for the entire day and are required to comply with all the rules and regulations of the school. PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES Rhode Island General Law 16-21.2-11 prohibits carrying, possessing, or using any paging device including cell phones, in a public school in Rhode Island.  In addition, MP3 players, CD players, headphones, laser pointers, and electronic gaming devices, are not allowed during the school day (7:35 to 2:09).  These items will be confiscated and must be picked up by a parent. FIRE DRILLS Upon hearing a fire alarm, students are to exit the building quickly and quietly, following the directions of staff members.  All students are to report to the area designated for their classroom where attendance will be taken.  Students are instructed to regard all fire alarms seriously and to respond to all directives from staff members without question. SECTION C - ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS, GRADING AND POLICIES South Kingstown High School prides itself on its outstanding academic reputation and the many accomplishments of its students.  Students are asked to review the following requirements carefully and direct any questions to school counselors, administrators, or teachers. DIPLOMA REQUIREMENTS I.      A minimum of 24 Carnegie Units (credits) 4   credits in English 4   credits in Mathematics * 3   credits in Social Studies (to include U.S. History)          3   credits in Science (to include 2 lab courses)                2   credits in Physical Education 1   credit in Health Education .5  credit in technology   .5  credit in the Arts (to include dance, music, theatre, and visual arts)                                        6 credits in electives – to include: .

| Home | Profile | Calendar | Newsletters | Staff | Documents | Contact Us

Last Modified: Mar 20, 2009