Student Handbook

Dear Student:

The faculty and staff join me in welcoming you to Rondout Valley High School. We look forward to working with you and your family to make this a great year.

This Student Handbook is provided to help students become familiar with their responsibilities as well as the general procedures and school regulations at Rondout Valley High School. This document is not all encompassing, but it does provide much of the basic information as it also serves as a useful planning tool.

Set goals for yourself and develop a plan to achieve them. Your effective utilization of time is more important than ever in light of our Block Schedule. Organization is a time management skill that successful individuals have learned. The ability to arrange and use one’s time efficiently will help ensure your success.

There are many clubs and organizations at RVHS. We urge you to check into the ones that interest you and find out more about them. Listen for announcements at the beginning of the year and we encourage you to GET INVOLVED!

Take pride in your achievements. Learn from your mistakes. Please respect yourself, others, and school property. Do not hesitate to ask for help. The faculty, staff, and administration of RVHS will use all their collective personal and professional skills to make your high school years rewarding and memorable.

We are pleased to present this special learning tool to you. Please accept it and make 2024-2025 a great school year. Go Ganders!

Your Lead Learner,

Jessica Torok
High School Principal

Our mission is to create an inclusive, welcoming educational community where all students can find their purpose and achieve their goals. We value diversity, kindness, creativity, and growth.

Alma Mater

In a valley closely nestled,
stands a school of fame,
Where the warriors once have wrestled,
RVC remains.

Hail the Blue and White forever
Honor they possess,
We salute our Alma Mater,
Onward R.V.C.

We will always sing her praises,
with a voice so strong,
Filling all the air around us,
Rousing it with song.

Hail the Blue and White forever,
Honor they possess.
We salute our Alma Mater,
Onward R.V.C.

CORE VALUES
RESPECT
KINDNESS
RESPONSIBILITY
HUMOR
TRUSTWORTHY/HONESTY

2024– 2025 School Calendar

September 2          Labor Day – School Closed
September 3          Superintendent’s Conference Day - No Students
September 4          First Day of School
September 18        ½ Day for Students- Staff Development Day
September 26        Open House (HS Curriculum Night)
October 3               No School
October 4               5-Week Marking Period Ends (Quarter 1)
October 14             No School
October 17             Parent Teacher Conferences (4:00-7:00 PM)
October 18              ½ Day Students – Parent Teacher Conferences (12:30-2:30 PM)
October 25              ½ Day Students- Staff Development Day
October 26              PSAT Exam (7:45 AM)
October 31              ½ Day for Students – Staff Development Day
November 2            SAT Exam (7:45 AM)
November 5            Superintendent’s Conference Day – No Students
November 8            Quarter 1 Ends
November 11          No School
November 27–29    Thanksgiving Recess – No School
December 13           5-Week Marking Period Ends (Quarter 2)
December 23–Jan 1 Winter Recess – No School
January 1                   No School
January 20                 No School
January 21–24           Regents Examinations
January 24                 Quarter 2 Ends
January 29                 No School
February 14-17         No School
February 28               5-Week Marking Period Ends (Quarter 3)
March 12                   Parent Teacher Conferences (4-7:00 PM) Snow date: March 19
April 4                         Quarter 3 Ends
April 14-21                 Spring Recess – No School
May 3                          SAT Exam (7:45 AM)
May 9                          Superintendent’s Conference Day - No Students
May 5-9, 12-16          AP Exams
May 16                       5-Week Marking Period Ends (Quarter 4)
May 26                       No School
June 16                       Last Day of Classes
June 19                       No School
June 11, 17–25          Regents Examinations
June 26                       Quarter 4 Ends
June 27                       Superintendent’s Conference Day – No Students
June 27                       Graduation

Emergency Closing Days = 5
Make Up Days – 4/14/25, 4/15/25
Give Back Days - 5/23/25, 4/22/25, 5/22/25

Your school counselor is here for your benefit and to assist you in many ways. Should you have any academic, social, or personal concerns, it is recommended that you speak with your counselor. He or she is a well-trained academic and personal advisor. If during the school year you have any questions or concerns, feel free to make an appointment to see your counselor. School Psychologists are also available for additional support and an assist parents in accessing community agencies. It is the goal of the Counseling Department to promote student success in school while preparing students to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives.

For 2024-2025, the students are assigned to Counselors as follows:

• Meg Marquis - Grade 9, ext. 4256
• Holly Miller – Grades 10-12 (A-K), ext. 4212
• Jody Hoffman– Grades 10 – 12 (L – Z), ext. 4209
• Alison Klein- College and Career Counselor, ext. 4269
• Lisa Ciccone – Social Worker, ext. 4210
• Dr. Jennifer Stellavato – School Psychologist, ext. 4118
• Allison Tosi – School Psychologist, ext. 4164
• Dave Mahoskey – Senior Crisis Intervention Specialist

Counseling Office: ext. 4213 & 4214

Your counselor is familiar with diploma requirements including Regents, Advanced Regents, and Local diploma designations. They also understand how your course selections affect your ability to earn these designations. When helping you select courses, counselors look at:

• Graduation requirements
• Objective testing data
• Individual student achievement data (e.g. report cards)
• Teacher recommendations
• Your course of study and areas of interest
• Parental recommendations

The school counseling office creates and distributes a Student Handbook: A Guide Through High School to College and Career. It is very important that students and parents read this and utilize this important resource.

Academic Support (AIS): These courses are designed to provide small group remediation in core academic courses. The primary goal is to develop skills so that students can successfully pass their courses and required NYS Regents exams. Activities include skill building exercises and practice Regents exams. This remediation service is mandated by NYS Education Dept. 

• Co-teaching (CT): This term refers to special education support within a regular education curriculum. Some courses are co-taught by a regular education teacher and a special education teacher in order to provide additional support and to ensure the implementation of IEP accommodations.
• Elective: Any course chosen by the student other than those required by the New York State Board of Regents.
• Prerequisite: Requirements of any kind that must be met before a student will be able to register for a given course. For example, a student must satisfactorily complete Algebra before taking Geometry.
• Unit of credit: The value given for any given course of study.

Rondout Valley CSD offers AP courses through College Board. Advanced Placement course and exam completion may qualify for college credit. Students who register for Advanced Placement courses are expected to take the AP examination in May. 

Early dismissal and late arrival are privileges that seniors may earn. Applications may be picked up in the Counseling Office. The form must be signed and submitted for review. Once appropriate documents are submitted, a determination will be made as to the appropriateness of this privilege. You may not drop classes or make schedule changes to augment the possibilities of this privilege. As per Board of Education policy, students must be passing all classes in order to enjoy this privilege.

The minimum course enrollment each year is five one-credit courses, plus physical education. Students are expected to enroll in more courses than minimally required. Doing so ensures that students stay on track for graduation even if they fail a class. In addition, students who take a broader range of classes will be stronger candidates for college. Students who earn enough credits may also be entitled to graduate from high school early. 

1. Courses may be dropped by October 4, 2024 without penalty.
2. Students may enroll in courses for which they have met the stated academic requirements or prerequisites.
3. A course may not be dropped if a student’s total program load falls below five (5) credits plus physical education.
4. A change in the schedule of a student may be requested by the student, parent, or guardian within the allotted time frame.
5. Any extenuating circumstances are subject to review by the building principal.
6. The completed and signed schedule change must be given to the school counselor for final determination by the building principal. 

Early graduation is an educational alternative available to Rondout Valley High School students. To be considered for early graduation, students must have completed the following:

• Fulfilled all graduation requirements.
• Received parental approval in writing.
• Received counselor approval.
• Received approval by building principal.

A. Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation – Students who meet the requirements listed below are eligible for this diploma.
B. Regents Diploma – The NYS Board of Regents has authorized Rondout Valley School District to issue this diploma to students who complete the high school course of study and pass the Regents examinations in certain subjects prescribed by the Board of Regents. NOTE: Students were exempted from Regents exams due to COVID-19 cancellations.
C. Local Diploma (Only I.E.P. Students) – The NYS Board of Regents has authorized Rondout Valley School District to issue this diploma to students who complete the high school course of study and pass the Regents Competency examination with a 65 or better or the Regents examination with a 55 or better in certain subjects prescribed by the Board of Regents.
D. Rondout Valley High School I.E.P. Credential – The NYS Board of Regents has authorized Rondout Valley School District to issue this credential to students who complete the high school course of study stated on their Individualized Educational Plan, who are not candidates for a Regents or Local diploma. There are two credentials possible: 1)  Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential (SACC) and 2) Career Development and Occupational Studies Commencement Credential (CDOSCC).

• Regents Diploma and Local Diploma

English                             4 Credits
Social Studies                 4 Credits
Science                            3 Credits
Math                                3 Credits
Fine Arts/Music              1 Credit
Health                              ½ Credit
Foreign Language          1 Credit
Electives                           3 ½ Credit
Physical Education         2 Credits (4 years)
Total:                                22 Credits

Regents Diploma candidates must pass FIVE Regents exams: English, Math, Science, Global History, and US History with a score of 65% or above.
An assessment exemption granted due to COVID-19 closures and cancellations may be accepted in lieu of a Regents examination, pathway assessment, or department approved alternative exam.

• Advanced Designation Regents Diploma

English                              4 Credits
History                              4 Credits
Science                              3 Credits
Math                                  3 Credits
Fine Arts/Music               1 Credit
Health                               ½ Credit
Foreign Language           3 Credits*
Electives                           1½ Credits
Physical Education          2 Credits (4 years)
Total                                  22 Credits

Regents with Advanced Designation candidates must pass the following Regent’s exams with a score of 65% or above

• 1 English Regents Exam– ELA
• 3 Math Regents Exams – Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II
• 2 Science Regents Exams – Two Regents level Science Courses
• 2 Social Studies Regents Exams – Global History, US History
• 1 Foreign Language Regents or 5 credit Art, Business, Career & Technical Education sequence (See Foreign Language Requirements Section) 

Merit Roll is 84.5 to 89.49, Honor Roll is 89.5 to 94.49 and High Honor Roll is 94.5 to100. Any student in a Pass/Fail course must be passing and may not have an incomplete.

All students must complete one (1) credit of foreign language between grades 7-12. Students who are seeking a Regents with Advanced Designation diploma must complete either the three-credit requirement in Foreign Language or a five-credit sequence in Art, Music, Career and Technical Education (Business, Technology, or Vo.-Tech.) or Fine Arts. Students who have an IEP may meet the criterion for exemption from the one (1) credit language requirement. 

The New York State Seal of Biliteracy recognizes high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in one or more languages, in addition to English. It is a formal recognition of bilingualism that becomes part of the high school transcript and diploma for these students, and is a statement of accomplishment for future employers and for college admission. Students wishing to receive the NYS Seal of Biliteracy must complete all requirements for graduating with a NYS Regents diploma. Furthermore, they must demonstrate proficiency in both English and a World Language through a points system that may involve scores on language assessments, English or World Language course grades, or a language focused project presentation to a school panel.

I.E.P. students can still receive 55 – 64 on Regents Exams and still earn a Local Diploma. IEP students will receive a local diploma as long as they meet a Regents sequence of Algebra, Global, U.S. History, English, Living Environment or Earth Science with a 55 – 64. Students who have an I.E.P. may meet the criterion for exemption from the one (1) credit language requirement.

Children who turn 16 during the school year must remain in school until the end of that school year. In districts that elect to raise the compulsory age to 17 pursuant to Section 3205 (3) of the Education Law, attendance is required until the end of the school year in which students turn 17.

The Rondout Valley Central School District requires that pupils enrolled in the schools of the district attend school and classes regularly in accordance with the laws of the State, and regulations and decisions of the Commissioner of Education.

Student Minimum Attendance/Course Credit
Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes. Within the guidelines established by Board Policy #5110, each student must attend 85% of the instructional meetings of a course in order to receive credit for the course. Students who fail to attend 85% of such sessions or days may be denied course credit. This is the equivalent of 14 days for a full year course and 7 days for a half-year course or a course that meets on alternate days for a full year. All absences except school recognized absences per Board Policy #5110, such as death in the family, religious observances, medical excuses, required court appearances, music rotations, field trips, school related activities (if the student is eligible to participate), and extenuating circumstances (to be determined by the appeals committee) shall be computed in determining the 85% attendance requirement. A school district suspension or expulsion shall not be calculated for the purposes of this policy. When a student exceeds his/her legal absences the student may remain in the class to audit the course or, upon the recommendation of the building principal, may be removed from the class. A recommendation may be made that a student be dropped from instruction in a course due to a violation of the 85% attendance requirement, or inappropriate behavior. If a student is more than 20 minutes late to class, he/she will be marked absent.
A letter will be sent from the Attendance Office to the parents of any student who may be in jeopardy of receiving credit due to attendance. This amounts to 14 absences for a full-year course and 7 absences for a half-year course. The student/guardian must make an appointment with the principal’s secretary to arrange an appeal if necessary. All appeals will be scheduled in January and June.

Attendance/Course Credit
The District believes that classroom participation is related to and affects a student's performance and grasp of the subject matter and may receive a final average/grade reflective of their poor attendance. For purposes of this policy, classroom participation means that a student is in class and prepared to work.

Based upon our District’s education and community needs, values, and priorities, the District has determined that absences, tardiness and early departures will be considered excused or unexcused according to the following standards.

• Excused: An absence, tardiness or early departure may be excused if due to personal illness, illness or death in the family, impassable roads due to inclement weather, religious observance, quarantine, required court appearances, attendance at health clinics, approved college visits, approved cooperative work programs, military obligations or other such reasons as may be approved by the Board of Education.
• Unexcused: An absence, tardiness or early departure is considered unexcused if the reason for the lack of attendance does not fall into the above categories (e.g. family vacation, hunting, babysitting, haircut, obtaining learner’s permit, road test, oversleeping).

Exceptions – Class absences for the following reasons will not be counted when applying the attendance standards. However, students are responsible for making up class work missed. (e.g. field trips, music lessons, extra-curricular athletics, administrative detainment (i.e., suspension), In-school suspension, long-term illness when the school has arranged to fulfill educational needs of the students, such as home tutoring).

Students–

• To attend school and all classes and to be present for all instruction.
• To request from a parent/guardian(s) the need for a written, dated and signed statement explaining the reason for any absence within two (2) school days of returning to school. If a note is not turned in within 2 days of an absence that absence will be deemed an illegal absence.
• To make up all missed work in a timely manner.

Parents/Guardians–
Parents and students shall annually be informed of Board Policy #5110 at the commencement of each school year or upon registration.

• To send their child to school every day.
• To call, when possible, and inform the school of the student’s absence for part or all of the school day.
• To always provide a written, dated and signed statement explaining the reason for the absence within two (2) school days of returning to school from the absence.

Teachers–

• To accurately keep attendance records.
• To provide assignments and opportunities to make up work.

Appeals Committee

• The Appeals Committee meets during January and June Regents week to review attendance appeals documentation.
• To notify the teachers of the outcome of the appeal

A student returning from an absence must present an excuse, written by the parent or guardian, to be given to the Attendance Office within two school days of returning to school. An excuse note should include:

• Date note is written
• Date(s) of absences
• Reason for absence
• Phone number where parent/guardian may be contacted
• Signature of parent/guardian

Note: Doctor’s notes are to be submitted

Early dismissal is a partial-day absence under New York State Education Law. Students who wish to be excused during the day must present a written note signed by a parent or guardian to the Attendance Office prior to the start of their school day (7:40 AM).

For Appointments–

• The note should clearly state the DATE, REASON for the early dismissal request, the SPECIFIC TIME requested, the arrangements for TRANSPORTATION, and parent/guardian SIGNATURE. A parent/guardian contact number must also be provided.
• Students are not allowed to leave the building without following the above procedure.
• If the student is driving (and has official permission to do so),  students will be allowed to leave at the approved time.
• Students who are NOT driving must have the person pick them up at the Attendance Office.
• A student must have a parent/guardian’s permission before he/she leaves with anyone other than the parent or guardian.
• If a student returns to school later that day, he/she must sign in at the Attendance Office to be officially admitted to school and to have the time returned logged in the Sign-Out Book. No student, under any circumstances, is to leave school without being officially excused, or return without being officially admitted.

Due to Illness–

• Students who become ill during the day should report to the Nurse’s Office immediately.
• Students are NOT to leave school without permission from the Nurse or from a building administrator.
• Students who are NOT driving must wait in the Nurse’s Office until their parent/guardian picks them up at the Attendance Office.
• A student must have a parent/guardian’s permission before he/she leaves with anyone other than the parent or guardian. 

Students are not to leave school grounds at any time after arriving without permission. A student who leaves school grounds will be counted as absent for the class(es) missed and will be required to make up all missed work. Students will also face disciplinary action according to the High School Discipline Code. 

Lateness to school is also a partial-day absence under New York State Education Law. Students have a legal and moral obligation to arrive to school on time. Students are admitted to the building at 7:30 AM and all students are required to be in class, ready to learn when school begins at 7:46 AM.

• Students arriving any time after 7:46 AM are tardy and must sign in at the Attendance Office, where he/she will receive a pass for class admittance.
• Students who are late to school with a written legal excuse must submit their note immediately upon arriving at the Attendance Office.
• The note should clearly state the DATE, REASON for being late, the SPECIFIC TIME of arrival, and parent/guardian SIGNATURE. A parent/guardian contact number must also be provided. A parental phone call or appearance at school to explain the tardiness may take place of a written note.
• Students who are late to school without a written legal excuse at the time of arrival are subject to the High School Discipline Code.

Excessive Tardiness– Students who are excessively late to school may require further disciplinary measures, which may include one or more of the following: hall restriction, revocation of early release/late entry privileges, lunch detention, loss of driving privileges and participating in afternoon activities assigned by building administration.
 

Driving to and from school is a privilege. These privileges are tied to student conduct at RVHS and all RVHS activities. Failure to follow the criteria, regulations and procedures for student parking set forth may result in revocation of the parking privilege, and/or suspension from school, and/or the vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense. Students driving to school must meet criteria established by the administration. If you wish to drive to school, you must fill out a “contract application” located in the Assistant Principal’s Office.

Regulations for Student Parking/Driving

1) Student parking permits are distributed to students in good standing that have their driver’s license. School administrators have the right and authority to deny any student a parking permit application and/or revoke the parking permit at any time.
2) Student vehicles are parked at operator’s and/or owner’s risk.
3) Student vehicles are to be parked in the designated student parking areas only or subject to being towed at owner’s expense.
4) Disorderly and/or disruptive conduct on school grounds and/or property is prohibited, but not limited to: Vehicles driven over 5 mph and/or driven recklessly; revving engines; burning out; peeling out; and/or playing loud audio.
5) Any lettering on a vehicle needs to adhere to the school code of conduct.
6) Leaving school grounds without permission during the day is prohibited. Students are prohibited from leaving school campus during lunch or study hall.
7) A vehicle driven to school by a student may not be used during the school day for any purpose other than direct transportation between home, school and/or work.
8) Students must have all their necessary belongings from their vehicle as they are NOT permitted access to their vehicle during the school day.
9) Students may not transfer their permit to another student or to another vehicle. If a student changes their vehicle during the year, they must update vehicle information in the Assistant Principals’ office.
10) Students issued a vehicle violation ticket must report to the Assistant Principals’ office within 24 hours (one school day) or jeopardize the privilege to park on campus. Students who receive three violation tickets you may be subject to being towed at owner’s expense and/or loss of parking privilege.
11) Student may not presume issuance of a parking permit on the basis of submitting an application. A vehicle without a permit may not be parked on campus and may be subject to being towed at owner’s expense.
12) Students with excessive unexcused absences and/or tardiness may have their parking privilege revoked and/or suspended.
13) Chronic and/or significant office referrals may result in parking permit being revoked and/or suspended.
14) Driving to and from BOCES without proper permission may warrant loss of parking privilege.
15) Allowing and/or driving unauthorized students in your car may result in loss of parking privilege and/or disciplinary action.
16) Old parking permits from previous year(s) must be returned to the Assistant Principals’ office if applicable.
17) There cannot be any outstanding school debts e.g., iPads; Chromebooks; textbooks; library books; calculators; locks; sports equipment; cafeteria charges and/or any other materials and/or debts in prior school year(s) or the current school year.

Physical Education is mandatory. In the event that a student fails a semester of Physical Education, it will be required that the credit be made up. Students are required to complete 2 credits of Physical Education by the end of their senior year. Students must be enrolled in a Physical Education class every semester.

LOCKER ROOM:
Once in the locker room, change, and secure belongings in designated locker. Students should not bring items of value to physical education class, and if they must, they should be locked up at all times. Security of all personal items is the responsibility of the students and locks should be used on lockers at all times.

Book bags or backpacks that do not fit into the lockers may be placed in the locker room or be put on top of the bleachers off of the playing area. Again, all valuables must be secured by the student by keeping it locked up in the lockers. We are not responsible for lost or stolen equipment.

LOCKS:
Each student will be issued a lock at the beginning of the semester. The Physical Education staff and the school will not be responsible for stolen property. Please use your lock to help prevent theft.

CLASS ATTIRE:
Students MAY change for physical education class but are not required to. Students who do not change shall not be penalized or lose participation credit. However, students MUST wear proper footwear for safety purposes to participate and receive credit.

ATTENDANCE POLICY FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION:
Students are expected to attend class, wear proper footwear, and regularly participate during class. Credit may be denied or reduced if students are not actively participating 85% of the time. This includes but is not limited to warm- up jogging, stretching and strength training during our warm-up time. Additionally, students may lose credit based on lack of participation during the P.E. class.

Students are permitted to miss up to 3 classes per quarter based on absences or/and unprepared classes. Absences can be made up with a designated instructor at a designated time.

Types of Absences:

OSS: If a student is suspended out of school for five days or more, a writing assignment will be assigned to complete for each week of the suspension in order to receive credit.

Medical: In order to receive a medical excuse, a doctor’s note must be submitted to the health office immediately upon returning to school. If a student has a medical that is for an extended period of time the following will occur:

• If the duration of the medical note is for up to five days, a writing assignment will be assigned to complete for the week in order to receive credit.
• If the duration of the medical note is for six days or more, a writing assignment will be assigned to complete for each week that the student is out on medical to receive credit.

Unprepared for Class:
If a student is unprepared, classes CANNOT be made-up at any time.

If a student takes an unprepared day:

• After the 1st unprepared class, the teacher will conference with student to discuss expectations and review grading policy.
• After either two consecutive unprepared classes or the 3rd unprepared class, parent/guardian will be contacted.

Credit Recovery:
When a student fails P.E. the student will be placed in an additional P.E. class.

When credit recovery occurs the student is required to be placed in a second P.E. class. If the student attains an 75% after 10 weeks then they receive ¼ (quarter) credit from the class that they failed previously. At this time the student may be removed from this class. If the student DOES NOT receive an 75% then the student will remain in the Credit Recovery class through the whole semester. If they are passing with a 65% or better then they will receive a ¼(quarter) credit.

Cuts:
If a student cuts class, he/she will NOT be allowed to make it up.

Athletes:
Student athletes must participate in PE class to practice or play in a game or contest on that same day, unless approved by Athletic Director. 

School climate is defined as the elements in a school that are related to relationships, teaching and learning, physical environment and safety. Positive relationships are critical to creating a positive school climate. It is the firm belief of the Rondout Valley Central School District that school leaders set the tone and expectations for an entire school community, paving the way for all members of our community to take simple yet meaningful steps to improve school climate.

The Rondout Valley Central School District is committed to restorative, inclusive, and community-centered practices as an integral component of our discipline code and conflict resolution process. These practices have the potential to create a more inclusive culture as they work to connect students to their community. Rondout Valley Central School District considers these approaches as an essential component of progressive discipline. The following describe the tenets of the Rondout Valley approach:

• Inclusive and community centered approaches are based on respect, responsibility, accountability, relationship-building and relationship-repairing.
• Our school community focuses on mediation, conflict resolution, and collaboration.
• Inclusive and community-centered practices that keep our students in school and create a safe environment conducive to learning.
• Discipline is viewed as an opportunity to learn, grow, and most importantly connect offenders with other community members in meaningful and long lasting ways.

Restorative questions serve as a tool to process an incident of wrongdoing or conflict. The questions focus on the incident, and allow the person to think about how his/her actions affected others. It encourages empathy, accountability, expression of feelings and thoughts, and problem solving. Restorative questions are also answered by those who were impacted by the incident, to help them process their feelings and determine what they need to make things right.

For the purposes of this code, the following definitions apply:

1. Cyberbullying – Harassment or bullying that occurs through any form of electronic communication, (Ed. Law §11[8]) including, but not limited to, cell phones, computers, and tablets, or other communication tools, including social media sites, text messages, chat rooms, and websites.
2. Discriminatory Remarks – insults or denigration based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, disability, marital status, veteran status, immigration or housing status, which results in intimidation or humiliation.
3. Disorderly Conduct –
   a. Violent or threatening behavior.
   b. Unreasonable noise.
   c. Abusive/obscene language or gesture.
   d. Disruption of an authorized meeting or assembly.
   e.Obstructing vehicle or pedestrian traffic creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition.
4. Disruptive Student – any student who interrupts the educational process or interferes with the teacher's authority over the classroom.
5. Drug-Free Schools Zone – all school district property and vehicles and a 1000 feet extension out surrounding all school buildings.
6. Drugs/Alcohol – illicit (anything non-approved) substances and alcohol in any form (including harmful inhalants).
7. Electronic Devices – audio/video recording devices, cam-phones, cell phones, computers and peripherals, IPod’s, laser pointers, MP3 players, pagers, smart phones, tablets and other mobile devices, etc.
8. Extortion/Intimidation – the act of threatening, verbally or by gesture, the well-being, safety, or property of any person on school property or en route to or from school.
9. Fighting/Assault – a physical confrontation in which two or more people willfully use force with the intent of inflicting harm on each other. Assault is intentionally causing serious physical injury to another person. (e.g., loss of organ function, fractured or broken bones or teeth, and any other injury involving risk of death or disfigurement.)
10. Gambling – Playing any game of skill or chance for money or anything of value. (Note: Raffles are considered games of chance under law.)
11. Insubordination – the refusal to follow the reasonable directive of a person in authority, including administrators, teachers, paraprofessionals, secretaries, custodians, volunteers, cafeteria workers, other adults employed by the school district, emergency management personnel.
12. Off Campus Misconduct – behavior involving other students or school district employees which breaks school rules or which affects the educative process (e.g. disrupts the operation of the school).
13. Parent – the parent, guardian, or person in parental relation to a student.
14. Passes – written approval to travel about the school during classes.
15. Physical Harassment – physical action (e.g. tripping, pushing, grabbing, shoving, spitting, etc.) resulting in intimidation/humiliation of another person.
16. Plagiarism/Cheating – the willful copying of previously published and/or written materials such as books, articles, book reports, term papers, internet publications, etc. and the presentation of these items as one's own is considered a form of cheating; also, failing to attribute ideas or particular language to the creator.
17. Removal – the act of a teacher in discontinuing the presence of the student in their classroom.
18. School Function – any school sponsored extracurricular, co-curricular, or other event or activity, on or off campus.
19. School Property – in or within any building, structure, athletic playing field, playground, parking lot, or land contained within the real property boundary line of a public elementary or secondary school or in or on a school bus as defined in Section 142 of the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law (Ed. Law 2801 ) (1).
20. Sexual Harassment – Sexual harassment may involve any conduct of a verbal, nonverbal or physical nature, including written and electronic communications, and may occur between persons of the same or different genders. Can include non-consensual sexual acts involving inappropriate sexual contact, including, but not limited to, touching another student and/or school employee on a part of the body that is generally regarded as private, which includes, but is not limited to, the buttocks, breasts, and genitalia, removing another student’s clothing to reveal underwear or private body parts, or brushing or rubbing against another person in a sexual manner. Sexual harassment also includes unwelcome advances, requests for sexual favors, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature (inappropriate and unwelcome jokes, comments, gestures, etc.) May also include indecent exposure, which is exposure to sight of the private parts of the body in a lewd or indecent manner.
21. Smoking/Tobacco – use of any tobacco or products including but not limited to electronic smoking devices which include e-cigarettes, vaporizers, or any electronic device on campus or school buses/vehicles.
22. Substantial Disruption – student demonstrates a persistent unwillingness to comply with a teacher's instructions or repeatedly violates classroom behavior rules.
23. Superintendent's Hearing – an administrative hearing to review a discipline case for possible suspension of a student beyond 5 days (Ed. Law 3214).
24. Suspension – the act of a building Principal (or acting Principal), Superintendent of Schools, District Superintendent, or Board of Education in discontinuing the presence of a student from their regular classes.
25. Trespass – unauthorized presence of a person on school property/buses, or particular parts thereof and/or refusal to leave school property after being directed to do so by a person in authority.
26. Truancy – the act of staying out of school or out of class without permission.
27. Unauthorized Areas – off limits without supervision by, or permission of, a staff member.
28. Vandalism – Intentionally or recklessly causing damage to or defacing school property or property of others. Includes situations that will cost the School District to repair or replace the damage or damage that involves a substantial disruption of school activities, such as destruction of school records.
29. Verbal Harassment – name calling, comments designed to insult, to humiliate, to intimidate, or to denigrate another person causing distress of the recipient.
30. Violent Student – any student who:
    a. Commits an act of violence upon a school employee, or attempts to do so
    b. Commits, while on school property or at a school function, an act of violence upon another student or any other person lawfully on school property or at the school function, or attempts to do so
    c. Possesses, while on school property or at a school function, a weapon
    d. Displays, while on school property or at a school function, what appears to be a weapon as defined in this section
    e. Threatens, while on school property or at a school function, to use a weapon
    f. Knowingly and intentionally damages or destroys the personal property of any school employee or any person lawfully on school property or at a school function
    g. Knowingly and intentionally damages or destroys school district property.
31. Weapons and Potentially Dangerous Objects – a firearm as defined in the Gun-Free Schools Act (18 USC. 921) [any firearm, including a starter gun, which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; the frame or receiver of such firearm; any firearm muffler or silencer; or any destructive device], as well as any other gun, BB gun, pistol, revolver, shotgun, rifle, machine gun, disguised gun, dagger, dirk, razor, stiletto, switchblade knife, gravity knife, brass knuckles, slingshot, metal knuckle knife, box cutter, cane sword, electronic dart gun, Kung Fu star, electronic stun gun, pepper spray or other noxious spray, explosive or incendiary bomb, or any other device, instrument, material, or substance that can cause physical injury or death when used to cause physical injury or death.

The Rondout Valley Central School District recognizes that students are guaranteed certain rights by law and believes that students are more likely to accept responsibility for following the rules and regulations of the school when these rights are understood, and students are treated fairly. Students are encouraged to work with the administration and the faculty in the development of school policy and should help with its enforcement.

The school is a community and the students, as well as the faculty and administration, are responsible for the atmosphere of the school. With this in mind, the Administration of Rondout Valley Central School District advises students that they possess the following rights:

1. All students who have not received a high school diploma are entitled to a free public education until they attain the age of 21.
2. Students have the right to free speech, provided that it does not interfere with the orderly conduct of classes and is not libelous, slanderous, or obscene.
3. Students have the right to wear display buttons, arm bands, or other badges of expression as long as they do not interfere with the orderly conduct of classes or contain material that is prejudicial, libelous, slanderous, or obscene.
4. No student shall be discriminated against on the basis of gender, race, disability, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, marital status, or veteran status.
5. All students have the right to distribute literature on school grounds as long as it does not interfere with normal school procedures and is not obscene, libelous, slanderous, or disruptive to the education process. The Board of Education has the right to establish guidelines for such distribution. The current guidelines can be found in the Board Policy Manual and must be consulted before any material is distributed.
6. No student will be searched by school district personnel unless the administration has determined reasonable cause to do so. Lockers and desks remain the property of the school district to be used by students, and therefore, may be subject to inspection at any time.
7. In cases where police or school officers enter the school, students have the same constitutional protections that they would have if they were not in school. Students have the right to a hearing prior to suspension unless the student's actions are deemed to be dangerous to self or others.
8. The Principal may suspend a student for a period not to exceed five school days. Only the Board of Education or the Superintendent has the power to suspend a student for more than five school days. In all cases of suspension the student and the student’s parent(s) have the right to a meeting where they shall be informed of the charges against the student, and they shall be allowed to question the complaining witnesses. No student shall be suspended for more than five school days without the opportunity to have a hearing, to be represented by counsel, and to cross-examine witnesses.
9. No person shall be disqualified from any high school athletic team by reason of that person's sex unless specifically disqualified by the State Commissioner of Education Regulations.
10. No student shall be denied the right to participate in any of the activities of the school because of pregnancy, marriage, or parenthood.
11. No student shall be denied a free public education because of a disability.
12. All students have equal access to all communications resources of the school, subject to the rules and regulations.
13. Student Dress – All students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress appropriately for school and school functions. Students and their parents have the primary responsibility for acceptable student dress and appearance. Our school’s dress code is designed to accomplish several goals:

    
    - Maintain a safe learning environment in classes where protective or supportive clothing is needed, such as chemistry/biology (eye or body protection), or PE (athletic shoes).
    - Allow students to wear clothing that expresses their self-identified gender.
    - Allow students to wear religious attire without fear of discipline or discrimination.
    - Prevent students from wearing clothing or accessories with offensive images or language, including but not limited to profanity, hate speech, and pornography.
    - Prevent students from wearing clothing or accessories that denote, suggest, display or reference alcohol, drugs or related paraphernalia or other illegal conduct or activities.
    - Prevent students from wearing clothing or accessories that will interfere with the operation of the school, disrupt the educational process, invade the rights of others, or create a reasonably foreseeable risk of such interference or invasion of rights.
    - Prevent students from wearing clothing or accessories that reasonably can be construed as being or including content that is racist, lewd, vulgar or obscene, or that reasonably can be construed as containing fighting words, speech that incites others to imminent lawless action, defamatory speech, or threats to others.

    Each Principal or the Principal’s designee shall be responsible for informing all students and their parents of the student dress code at the beginning of the school year and any revisions to the dress code made during the school year.

    Students who violate the student dress code shall be required to modify their appearance by covering or removing the offending item and, if necessary or practical, replacing it with an acceptable item. Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to discipline, up to and including in-school suspension for the day. Any student who repeatedly fails to comply with the dress code shall be subject to further discipline, up to and including out of school suspension.

14. Student Records – A parent or any student who has attained the age of 18 has the right to inspect the student’s records provided procedures requesting this examination have been followed.
    
    These rights have been adapted from the New York State Education Department publication “Guideline for Students Rights and Responsibilities”. If you feel you have been denied any of the rights mentioned above, you should discuss it with your student organization representative, your guidance counselor, Assistant Principal, or Principal.
15. Student Government – Students are encouraged to participate in the various student governmental bodies which have been or may be established in our schools. It shall be the duty of the student governmental body to establish reasonable standards for qualification of candidates to serve in offices of the government. Elections for student government shall be conducted in accordance with the principles of our democracy, and elected student representatives shall work with the faculty, administration, and student body in identifying cooperatively those areas of appropriate student responsibility. All student governmental bodies shall have a faculty advisor and shall be organized pursuant to a specific written constitution which the students shall participate in formulating.
16. Student Clubs and Other Student Organizations – The District encourages students to participate in extracurricular activity clubs and/or organizations. To the extent that the District authorizes meetings of non-curriculum related clubs or organizations, the same shall be subject to the constitution of the student government and shall be conducted in accordance with any applicable federal or state law, as well as Board of Education policy and regulations.
17. Student Grievances and Complaints – If a student has a grievance or a complaint about a school-related matter, a school employee, or other school official; the student may submit it, in writing, to the Principal of the school who shall respond within ten (10) school days with a written answer or proposed resolution. Grievances or complaints may be appealed in writing to the Superintendent of Schools if the Principal’s answer or proposed resolution is not deemed satisfactory by the student. The Superintendent of Schools shall respond to all grievances and complaints within a reasonable period of time following receipt of the written appeal document.
18. Student Driving – Students driving to school must meet criteria established by the administration. If you wish to drive to school you must fill out a "contract application" in the Assistant Principals' Office. All vehicles parked on campus must have school parking identification. If a car is parked illegally on campus, a warning will be issued for the first offense. For a second offense during the school year the vehicle may be towed at owner's expense. Students must park in designated areas. Students must obey all New York driving rules and regulations. Any violations of student driving rules may result in suspension from school and/or loss of driving privileges. Students who are tardy three times will lose driving/parking privileges for no less than 30 days and will be placed at the bottom of the waiting list.

Indecency is the act of offending against commonly recognized standards of propriety or good taste. This includes intimate acts of embracing and kissing in school. 

Every student has the right to pursue his/her educational opportunities free of fears about his/her personal well-being or the security of his/her property. The act of threatening, verbally, electronically (cyber bullying), or by gesture, the wellbeing, health, safety, or property of any person on school property or en-route to or from school is strictly prohibited. Using such threats to obtain money, favors, etc. is considered extortion and is similarly forbidden. Violation of these prohibitions will result in suspension and/or legal action.

The Board of Education is committed to safeguarding the right of all students within the school district to learn in an environment that is free from all forms of sexual harassment. Therefore, the Board, consistent with State and Federal law, condemns all unwelcome and/or unwarranted behavior of a sexual nature which may impose a requirement of sexual cooperation as a condition of academic advancement, or which has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning environment. The Board specifically prohibits all student-employee relationships of a sexual or quasi-sexual nature, whether or not consensual.

Generally, sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome and/or unwarranted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

1) Submission to such conduct is made, either explicitly or implicitly, a condition for evaluating the student’s successful completion of any course of study, educational or extra-curricular activity, including the acceptance into or rejection from such course or activity;
2) Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as the basis for academic or extra-curricular decisions affecting such a student, including the acceptance into or rejection from a course or activity.
3) Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student’s academic performance, evaluation of a student’s academic progress or participation in an educational or extra-curricular activity, or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning environment.
4) Conditions exist within the school environment that allow or foster harassing activities of a sexual nature, including but not limited to obscene pictures, lewd jokes, sexual comments and innuendo, sexual advances.

The Board recognizes that sexual harassment of students can originate from a person of either sex against a person of the opposite or same sex; from peers, employees, officers, agents or any individual who might foreseeably come into contact with students on school grounds or at school-sponsored activities.

The Board acknowledges that in determining whether sexual harassment has occurred, the perspective of the complainant and/or victim shall be considered. While the accused persons conduct and/or intention may be considered, sexual harassment may be found even where the accused had no intent to sexually harass another individual. Complaints may be made to either the Principal or Assistant Principal’s Offices. For further information see Board Policy #7531 and regulations # 7531 -R.

• Name Calling – Based on physical appearance, disability, race, ethnicity or sexual orientation, scholastic aptitude, financial status, dress, or any other comments meant to insult or humiliate, show disrespect, causing upset of another individual.
• Physical Harassment – Physical action (i.e., tripping, grabbing, pushing, shoving, spitting, etc.), resulting in intimidation/humiliation, or bodily harm of another.
• Discrimination – Unacceptable remarks/actions on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, disability or other reason resulting in intimidation or humiliation.
• Cyber Bullying – Using an electronic device to intimidate or harass another individual.
 

Force, reasonable and moderate in degree, may be used by school personnel to restrain students from harming themselves, others, or property. Corporal punishment is prohibited in the Rondout Valley Central School District. Any student who feels that he/she has been disciplined by school personnel using physical force should report the matter to the Principal at once.

Pursuant to the provisions of the N.Y.S. Dignity for all Students Act (“DASA”), the State of New York declared it to be the policy of the state to afford all students in public schools an environment free of discrimination and harassment. The intent of the Dignity for All Students Act (Dignity Act) is to provide all public-school students with an environment free from discrimination and harassment, as well as to foster civility in public schools. It focuses on prevention of harassment and discriminatory behaviors through the promotion of educational measures meant to positively impact school culture and climate. The Dignity Act states that NO student shall be subjected to harassment or discrimination by employees or students on school property (including school bus) or at a school function based on their actual or perceived (including, but not limited to) race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender, or sex. The Dignity Act emphasizes the importance of tolerance and respect for others by students and staff alike. Therefore, all members of the school community, including essential partners such as superintendents, school board members, parents, students, teachers, school counselors, principals/administrators, support staff and other school personnel have particularly important roles to play in its implementation.

Dignity Act Coordinators for Rondout Valley High School:
Lisa Ciccone- lciccone@rondout.k12.ny.us ext. 4269
Ryan Judge- rjudge@rondout.k12.ny.us ext. 4207
Kaitlin Nolan- knolan@rondout.k12.ny.us ext. 4207
Jessica Torok- Jtorok@rondout.k12.ny.us ext. 4201

The Act prohibits acts of harassment, bullying or discrimination directed at students that:

• Interferes with a student’s educational performance, opportunities, or benefits
• Interferes with a student’s mental, emotional, or physical well-being
• Causes a student to fear for their safety
• Causes a physical injury to a student (or would be expected to cause a physical injury)
• Causes emotional harm to a student

In addition to acts that might occur on school property and/or at a school function, the Act further prohibits an action or statement that occurs off school property that creates a risk of substantial disruption in the school environment (or could foreseeably create such a risk), and is foreseeable that the conduct, threats, intimidation, or abuse might negatively affect and/or impact a student in a school setting.

The Rondout Valley Central School District is committed to offering its students an educational environment that is free of harassment, bullying or discrimination. Towards that end, it has created a Dignity Act Incident Reporting Form through which any individual possessing information suggesting that a student has been subject to such harassment, bullying or discrimination can report such information so that it may be properly investigated and addressed. Forms can be found in the Main Office, AP Office, Counseling Office and on the school website.

Students of Rondout Valley High School whether in school or on school grounds, or at school activities, are expected to conduct themselves in a manner which is appropriate and which reflects respect for themselves and others. The main purpose of this high school is to provide a quality education in a safe environment. Anyone who interferes with or hinders this process will be subject to disciplinary action. Respect for others is a fundamental responsibility of all persons in the school building. If a student feels that she/he has been treated unfairly, she/he should report such instances to the administration. Every effort will be made to support and respect the student’s rights; however, it must be remembered that:

• No student has the right to refuse to respond to any reasonable directive made by a staff member, (e.g. move when told to do so, report to the office, stop horseplay, refrain from entering a restricted area, etc.).
• No student has the right to refuse to give his or her full name or produce an ID card when requested by a staff member.
• No student has the right to use language or engage in behavior that is seriously inappropriate or disruptive.
• No student has the right to refuse to attend school or assigned classes.

Students who are insubordinate, disorderly or endanger the health, safety and welfare of others will be subject to disciplinary action involving detention, In School Suspension (I.S.S.), or Out of School Suspension (O.S.S.).

The following section will help students to understand what is expected of them with regard to conduct. The responsible student will model his/her conduct in ways that will result in adherence to the rules and procedures of RVHS.

Insubordination is the refusal to follow the reasonable directive of a person in authority. Persons in authority include administrators, teachers, paraprofessionals, secretaries, custodians, volunteers, cafeteria workers, and other adults employed by the school district. Insubordination includes a violation of the rules, regulations and policies contained within this handbook. As with other kinds of infractions, there are degrees of insubordination, but it must be remembered that insubordination is generally considered a serious offense and may result in suspension. 

A person is guilty of disorderly conduct when, with intent to cause the public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, or recklessly creating a risk thereof

• they engage in fighting or in violent or threatening behavior;
• they make unreasonable noise, or in a public place uses abusive or obscene language or makes an obscene gesture;
• without authority, they disturb any authorized assembly or meeting of persons;
• they obstruct vehicle or pedestrian traffic;
• they congregate with other persons in a public place and refuses to comply with the request of a person in authority to disburse;
• they create a hazardous or physically offensive condition by an act that serves no legitimate purpose.

Students found guilty of disorderly conduct will be suspended in accordance with the Code of Conduct. In some circumstances, police referrals will be made. See District Code of Conduct, page 20-21.

See District Code of Conduct for examples on pages 23-36.

In order for the school to promote a healthful environment for learning, and because of the serious threat that illicit drugs and alcohol constitute to a person’s physical and emotional well-being, the possession, use, or being under the influence of these substances in school, on school grounds, or at any school sponsored function is strictly prohibited. The use of a drug and alcohol detector may be used by authorized school personnel to ensure the health and safety of our students.

Students are urged to exercise sound judgment in their own conduct. It is the student’s responsibility to remove herself/himself from an area in which drug or alcohol use is taking place. Those who remain in close proximity to others who are drinking or using drugs may be held responsible as participants in this offense.

Students are reminded that the school counselors and the school nurse are experienced in counseling students with drug and drug-related problems. Students are free to speak with these people in confidence if they have concerns about or need help with a personal or family drug or alcohol problem.

School administrators will also make appropriate referrals to the guidance department or the school nurse. Often referrals to outside agencies are made as well. Students found to be in violation of drug/alcohol possession rules may be dealt with as follows:

• Suspension from school/superintendent’s hearing
• A recommendation for drug and alcohol assessment.

Those involved in the distribution or sale of drugs or alcohol may face long-term or permanent suspension. Under certain circumstances, referrals to the police will also be made.

The Rondout Valley Central School District has established a drug-free zone around all district school buildings. These zones extend 1000 feet from the property boundaries of elementary schools, middle school and the high school. Increased penalties may be imposed upon those guilty of selling controlled substances, to persons under the age of 19, within these designated areas.

As in accordance with the Clean Indoor Air act NO SMOKING or other tobacco use is allowed in any building or property of the Rondout Valley Central School District. Students and adults are not allowed to smoke on school property. There will be no use, possession, selling, distributing, or supplying of tobacco, smokeless tobacco, electronic cigarettes, rolling papers, personal vaporizers, e-liquids and any electronic nicotine device or paraphernalia associated with these products, lighters, matches, etc. by students in the building or on school property at any time, including at and during school events. Drugs have no place in our schools. They are a complete distraction and carry serious health consequences.

Inappropriate use of computers includes, but is not limited to, intentional uses that violate the law and the rules enumerated in the signed computer use agreements or any other use that threatens the integrity or security of computers, networks or on-line accounts provided by the Rondout Valley Central School District. Disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This includes cyber-bullying.

Electronic devices including cell phones, and mp3 players (i.e., iPods) are not to be used by students while classes are in session unless being used for an academic purpose with permission from a teacher or administrator. Students violating this rule may have their device confiscated. Confiscated electronic devices will be held by a school administrator and will only be returned to the student’s parent or legal guardian. Students refusing to turn over an electronic device will face disciplinary action for insubordination. Tablets and laptop computers are subject to the same rules unless a student is given explicit permission from a faculty member. In such cases permission only applies to the particular class and time period for which permission is been granted.

No student shall interfere with, intimidate or physically or verbally attack another student or school district employee on their way to or from school district property before, during or after school hours. Any violation of school rules, which involves other students or school district employees shall be dealt with as if the violation occurred on school district property. Any violation of this rule will result in the discipline of the student up to and including long term or permanent suspension.

The Rondout Valley School District works in partnership with the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office to ensure a safe learning environment for all students. The School Resource Officers (SRO’s) are permanently assigned to RVCSD and are trained to maintain the safety and welfare of every student and staff member. They are law-related counselors who provide guidance to students and act as a link to support services both inside and outside the school environment. The SRO’s are dedicated to building meaningful relationships with students, in an effort to reduce stereotypical views of law enforcement and serve as a positive role model for students. In addition, the SROs are law-related educators who provide the schools with additional resources by sharing their experiences in the academic setting, particularly in the areas of citizenship, decision-making skills, and self-discipline.

For the safety of our students, faculty, and staff, students are to enter and exit the high school building through one of two entrances. In the morning when busses drop off students may enter through the new entranceway located on the west side of the gymnasium. At the end of the day when we dismiss students to the busses, students may exit through those doors as well. Other than that, all students are required to enter/exit through the 500 wing Welcome Center and sign in and out at the Attendance Desk. All students must sign in and out for early dismissal, WISE and New Visions. In addition, students are not prop open other entrances/exits or open them so others may enter or exit. Violation of these rules will result in disciplinary action including suspension.

An assault is a willful, physical attack, upon another person. A fight is a physical confrontation in which two or more people willfully use force with the intent of inflicting harm on each other as the result of a conflict.

Under no circumstances will any behavior, which endangers the safety or welfare of a person, be tolerated within our school. When disputes arise, students are expected to demonstrate maturity, self-control and good judgment by attempting to resolve the issue peacefully. If personal attempts to “talk things out” fail, students are expected to seek the advice and help of adults including teachers, guidance counselors and administrators. When an assault or fight seems imminent, each student is expected to do everything in the student’s power to avoid a physical confrontation, even if this involves leaving the scene immediately. The responsible student will bring “sensitive” situations to the attention of an administrator at the first sign of trouble, so corrective steps toward reconciliation can be taken.

Assault and fighting are serious infractions of school rules that endanger the safety of others. Students who violate these rules will be suspended from school externally and under certain circumstances referrals to the police will also be made. Repeat offenders may face Superintendent’s Hearings and possible long-term suspension or expulsion.

Students must be in “good academic standing” and comply with regulations school regulations. Fire department chief is required to submit in writing granting permission for student to participate. A parent/guardian must also provide written permission to attend fire call. Prior permission needs to be granted by building administration.

Playing any game of skill or chance for money or anything of value. (Note: Raffles are considered games of chance under law.)

The same rules of conduct that apply in school apply on the bus. Misconduct on the bus may result in disciplinary action in accordance with the Code of Conduct. Bus referrals are considered office-referrals. Students who receive three bus referrals on the BOCES bus may be suspended from the BOCES program. Bus Passes are required to ride a different route to and from school. A pass is also needed to get off the bus at a different location.

Meals are important in a student’s day. The following expectations apply:
Breakfast

• Students should get breakfast between 7:30 and 7:42 AM.
• Students will not be allowed to enter the cafeteria after 7:42 AM.
• Students already in the cafeteria will leave by 7:42 to get to their period 1 class.

Lunch

• Students must arrive at the cafeteria on time. Students are not permitted to be in the hallways during lunch.
• No student shall leave the cafeteria unless student has a pre-signed pass from their teacher or leaves for an approved alternative lunch location (e.g., open gym, Gander garden, etc.).
• Anyone wishing to use the library is to go there and remain there.
• Food is served on a first-come, first-served basis. “Jumping the line” or cutting ahead of others is not permitted.
• Each student is required to deposit his/her trash in the waste can and/or the appropriate recycling container upon leaving a table. Tables must be left free of trash.
• Electronic devices are permitted during a student’s assigned lunch period in the cafeteria.
• No food or beverage may be taken out of the cafeteria unless a student has a pre-signed pass from a teacher.
• Students may be removed from the cafeteria at any time if inappropriate behavior occurs to an assigned alternate location.

Students are NOT permitted to order food delivery services (eg.- DoorDash, Uber Eats, etc.) during the academic day. Any food delivered to the school will be confiscated and additional consequences may be enforced. This is in place to maintain the safety and security of our school environment, minimize disruptions during the instructional day, and ensure adherence to our District food policies.

• Attendance will issue passes to students who arrive late to school to their assigned class.
• Students must use the classroom log sheet to record their destination anytime they leave the classroom, café, etc. Students must have a green pass from their classroom teacher if they are going to either the nurse or library.
• Students are to use the nearest restroom to their assigned student schedule.
• Students may not use the same stall or gender-neutral restroom as another student at the same time (see Unauthorized Areas below).
• If a student needs to visit the health office, counseling office, principal’s office, AP office or the library, a phone call must precede the student leaving. If approved by staff, the student then signs the log and leaves.
• The following are examples of destinations that are NOT approved (i.e. locker room, gym, other teacher, other study halls, vending machines, cafeteria etc.)

Students who are placed on hall restriction need permission from an administrator to leave a class or study hall during class time. To ensure students are in class learning and instructional time is maximized, students on hall restriction are not to leave class for any reason, unless it is a medical emergency. Students on hall restriction with a pre-scheduled appointment with a counselor, school psychologist, another teacher, or nurse are still required to be escorted. Students who violate hall restriction will be considered insubordinate. Students may be placed on hall restriction by their classroom teacher or building administrator.

The act of distributing unauthorized materials on school property is prohibited. This will result in disciplinary action.

Plagiarism is the willful copying of previously published and/or written material such as books, articles, book reports, term papers, etc., and the presentation of these items as one’s own. This includes sharing work with other students to be copied. This act constitutes academic fraud and is a form of cheating. It and other forms of cheating are prohibited. Students found guilty may receive academic or disciplinary consequences.

Trespassing is the unauthorized presence of a person on school property/buses, or parts thereof and/or refusal to leave school property after being directed to do so by a person in authority. There are specific legal penalties for this offense. There are certain circumstances under which a student may be trespassing in his/her own school, which may result in disciplinary and/or legal action. These include:

• Entering or remaining in school during the term of an external suspension.
• Is on school grounds without permission at an unauthorized time.

Rondout Valley High School students are not permitted on the grounds or in the building of other district schools without authorization. Violation of this rule will result in suspension and/or legal action. Rondout Valley High School students are reminded that unauthorized visits to the Middle School are forbidden, and the school rules regarding trespass will be enforced strictly.

Certain areas of the school are off limits to students except when under the direct supervision of a staff member. These areas include the auditorium and stage, locker rooms, gyms and weight room, school offices, teacher’s rooms and lavatories, paring lot, parked cars, wooded areas around school, stairwells, science storage and preparation rooms, the basement, kitchen, technical education shops, building roof, and other areas. Students who enter these areas without authorization may be subject to suspension.

Restroom stalls and gender-neutral restrooms shall be limited to one single student at a time. Any students found to be in a single stall or gender-neutral restroom with another student or multiple students is subject to be searched by a building administrator or their designee.

Intentionally or recklessly causing damage to or defacing school property or property of others. Includes situations that will cost the School District to repair or replace the damage or damage that involves a substantial disruption of school activities, such as destruction of school records.

See Definitions section of student handbook.

Possession or use of a toy, or other objects that are intended or upon reasonable observation appear to be a weapon or potentially dangerous object, shall not be permitted on school grounds, on school buses or in school buildings.

Superintendent’s Regulation Policy #5312.2: Weapons may not be brought, by students, to school grounds or school buildings.

A firearm as defined in the Gun-Free Schools Act (18 USC 921) [any firearm, including a starter gun, which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; the frame or receiver of such firearm; any firearm muffler or silencer; or any destructive device], as well as any other gun, BB gun, pistol, revolver, shotgun, rifle, machine gun, disguised gun, dagger, dirk, razor, stiletto, switchblade knife, gravity knife, brass knuckles, sling shot, metal knuckle knife, box cutter, cane sword, electronic dart gun, Kung Fu star, electronic stun gun, pepper spray or other noxious spray, explosive or incendiary bomb, or other device, instrument, material or substance that can cause physical injury or death when used to cause physical injury or death. Any student violating the above rules shall be suspended for a prolonged period of time or permanently expelled. The possession or use of potentially dangerous objects as defined below on school grounds, school buses or in school buildings shall result in the same discipline as the weapons rules violation.

Potentially dangerous objects shall be defined to include but not be limited to a motor vehicle, name belt, scissors, broken glass, knives, explosive devices, spike clothing accessories, chains or other instruments, articles or substances which under the circumstances of attempted use, or threatened use, are readily capable of causing death or serious physical injury. Under certain circumstances, referrals to the police will be made.

Misdemeanor/Felony
Commission of conduct that constitutes a misdemeanor/felony while on school property or at a school event will be reported to law enforcement and subject to school discipline in accordance with the code of conduct.

Building administration will continue to take measures to investigate, determine responsibility level(s), and assist students in making amends for their behavior, and apply appropriate disciplinary measures. The building administrators may also implement restorative practices. While it is important to note that adoption of this kind of restorative-centered philosophy is being added to our Code of Conduct, it may not replace traditional disciplinary consequences.

These measures assist student(s) to:

• Restore their relationship to the affected person(s);
• Restore their relationship to the school community;
• Make progress in personally assuming responsibility for their actions;
• Make amends for their actions;
• Reduce the likelihood of repeating the behavior;
• Increase empathy for and understanding of the affected student(s).

The following code of disciplinary procedures is included to enable students and parents to be aware of the possible consequences of unacceptable behavior in school. Disciplinary action will be taken on the basis of what is in the best interest of both the individual student and the total school community. Students and parents should understand that these are guidelines and are not all inclusive and may be added to or modified as dictated by school policy and/or as the school finds necessary. Also, students receiving a suspension, either ISS or OSS, may not participate in school sports or extra-curricular activities during the period of suspension. All students receiving an OSS may not, at any time of day, be on the school property or in the school building during the period of suspension, including weekends. Students given an OSS must report directly to the Assistant Principals’ Office for readmission at the end of the suspension period. A parent or guardian’s presence may be required upon re-entry at the discretion of the administrator.
-For a full description of our Leveled System of Behavioral Supports/Responses/Interventions, please see Appendix A of the RVCSD Code of Conduct, p. 37-41.

• Absence from class without excuse (“skipping”) – detention
• Arson – OSS, 5 days and possible Superintendent’s suspension, refer to law enforcement where appropriate.
• Any willful and unsanctioned act that disrupts the normal operation of the school community – ISS/OSS
• Bullying, including cyber-bullying – DASA, ISS/OSS
• Cheating: Academic consequence and/or disciplinary action.
• Creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition by any act that serves no legitimate purpose (e.g., horseplay, roughhousing) – detention, 1-5 days ISS/OSS
• Disruption of class or study hall – detention or ISS, 1 – 5 days/OSS
• Failure to comply with driving/parking policy – ISS/OSS and/or loss of driving privileges.
• Fighting – OSS, 5 days for both students, regardless of who struck first.
• Failure to attend detention – ISS, 1 – 5 days.
• Failure or refusal to go to ISS – OSS
• Gambling or other games of chance – detention/ ISS
• Hall Restriction violation – detention/ ISS/OSS
• Harassment: physical/sexual/verbal/electronic – DASA, ISS/OSS
• Hazing – ISS/OSS
• Inappropriate computer use – Detention/ ISS/ OSS
• Inappropriate use of electronic devices – Detention/ ISS/ OSS
• Leaving School Building/Grounds without permission – ISS, 1 – 5 days/OSS and/or loss of driving privileges.
• Lewd behavior – OSS
• Loitering after school – Detention/ISS and loss of after school privileges.
• Misrepresentation – that include but are not limited to forging notes for absence, tardiness, bus pass requests, or lying about whereabouts - detention and/or ISS
• Possession, sale and/or use of alcohol or drugs – OSS, 5 days, and possible Superintendent’s hearing.
• Possession, sale and/or use of fireworks (pyrotechnic devices) – OSS, 1 – 5 days, possible Superintendent’s hearing.
• Physical abuse or attempted physical abuse of a teacher or any other staff member – OSS, 5 days, and a referral to a Superintendent’s hearing.
• Profane and inappropriate language – Detention/ ISS/ OSS
• Profane, obscene or harassing language including racial, ethnic or sexual comments– ISS/OSS, 1– 5 days
• Pulling a false alarm – OSS
• Smoking, possession, and/or sale of tobacco products (including electronic devices and/or smokeless tobacco) –
  • o 1st Offense: 3 days ISS and counseling
  • o 2nd Offense: 1-5 days OSS, counseling, and possible Superintendent’s suspension.
• Tardiness to class/study hall:
  • o Late to class: 3 times late to any class or assignment (e.g., study hall) = detention. Each subsequent tardy = detention. Continued tardiness may result in ISS/OSS.
• Theft/Vandalism – Detention/ISS/OSS.
• Trespassing – OSS
• Verbal abuse to a teacher or any other staff member – OSS 1 – 5 days
• Videotaping of any staff member – OSS 1 – 5 days
• Videotaping students without their permission – OSS 1 – 5 days
• Violation or failure to comply to Dress Code – Detention/ISS
• Vulgar materials – ISS/OSS
• Weapons possessions/use – OSS, 5 days and possible Superintendent’s suspension, refer to law enforcement where appropriate.

All behaviors that could imply a threat to self or others will lead to a Behavioral Assessment by designated Threat Assessment Team. Please see District Policy 8131.2–Behavioral Threat Assessment. THE PRINCIPAL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REQUEST A SUPERINTENDENT’S HEARING AT ANY TIME.

Any and all cases are subject to review by the High School Principal.

• Students are not to be in the building after school unless under the direct supervision of a staff member which includes club advisor, after school help, Night School, or detention. They must remain with the supervisor for the duration of time. Students who leave the designated area must have a pass. When a club advisor or teacher dismisses you, you must report to the cafeteria and wait for the late bus. After school buses depart campus at 3:30 and 4:35 daily.
• Sports, class, and club activity participants are to report to a designated area determined and supervised by the appropriate staff member.
• Anyone wishing to stay after to complete schoolwork, but not with a specific teacher, must report to the cafeteria.
• All students are to report to assigned areas by 2:30 PM. Those found in the halls without passes after that time will be given an office referral and may face loss of after school privileges.
• Students, whether participants or spectators who engage in un-sportsmanlike conduct will be removed from the activity and receive an office referral.

The detention program is set up as a disciplinary measure and has a proactive component where students have the opportunity to process their behavior with a staff member.

• Students will report to detention in the cafeteria by 2:30 PM. If a student is late for detention, he/she will remain that day and may be assigned an additional day.
• All detention students are to remain in assigned seats, refrain from talking and complete their schoolwork. Detention is a silent working area.
• No electronic devices of any type are permitted, unless being used for an academic purpose with permission from detention supervisor or administrator.
• Students are not allowed to use the phone to make arrangements for rides home. This must be done before the student serves detention.
• Students are required to stay until 3:30 PM or 4:30 PM (depending on length of detention being served).
• If a student is absent or leaves school for an early release on a day that they are to serve detention, then the day will be rescheduled for the next school day.

If a student fails to report to detention, or to follow detention rules (defined above), further disciplinary action may be imposed.

• Students assigned lunch detention will be served during their lunch period in the In-School Suspension Room or another designated room.
• Students must report to lunch detention at the beginning of their lunch period. If a student is late for lunch detention, he/she will remain that period and may be assigned an additional day.
• If a student is absent or leaves school for an early release on a day that they are to serve lunch detention, then the day will be rescheduled for the next school day.
• In-school suspension rules apply (defined below).

If a student fails to report to detention, or to follow detention rules (defined above), further disciplinary action may be imposed.

• Students will report to ISS on time at 7:40 a.m. Students assigned with late arrival are to report to ISS at the start of their first assigned class (seniors only).
• All detention students are to remain in assigned seats, refrain from talking and complete their schoolwork.
• ISS is a silent working room. There is NO talking, note passing, and writing on desks, tables, or walls.
• The computer(s) is not for student use unless it’s used for an academic purpose with permission from a teacher or administrator. Students must be supervised to ensure they’re doing schoolwork.
• No electronic devices of any type are permitted, unless being used for an academic purpose with permission from ISS supervisor or administrator.
• Students are required to put their cell phone in the cellphone caddy upon entering the ISS room.
• Students are to be escorted to the cafeteria to get lunch and return to ISS. Students will also be escorted to the bathrooms.
• Students need permission to see the principal, AP, guidance, counselor or nurse.
• Students may NOT use the phone for any reason. If they need to make a call, it needs to be approved by an administrator.

Any student refusing to go to ISS or comply with ISS rules will be given an out-of-school suspension and must be picked up immediately.

• Reciprocity: BOCES suspensions are reciprocal with Rondout Valley High School.
• BOCES attendance policy: If a BOCES student misses the BOCES bus, he/she will be placed in ISS.

If a student is suspended from School, he/she is prohibited from participating in the activity for the time of the suspension. Students must serve their disciplinary consequence before they can rejoin their activity. The terms of the Extracurricular Eligibility Policy apply to all of the following:

• Field Trips
• Class/Club Activities
• Athletic Activities
• Dances
• Office Aides
• After school events as spectator/participant

External suspension will be utilized when other methods of discipline have failed to correct inappropriate behavior, when an offense is particularly serious, or when a student’s presence in school constitutes a danger to herself/himself or others. Students may not participate in extra-curricular activities, school functions, or be on school property during the term of a suspension including an intervening weekend. This includes participation in the prom and graduation ceremony.

The repetition of an infraction may lead to the imposition of the next measure of discipline at the discretion of the Administration. Chronic repetition of infractions may lead to long-term suspension or permanent suspension (expulsion). The principal has the right to request a Superintendent’s Hearing at any time.

It is school policy that three office referrals will result in a possible consideration of suspension from school or ISS assignment.

As a matter of policy, it is recognized that not all foreseeable situations or their severity can be anticipated. Students and parents should understand that if unforeseeable situations should occur, the administrator will deal with these offenses at his/her discretion, including the possible use of law enforcement authorities. The principal may request a Superintendent’s Hearing at his/her discretion. All referrals may be appealed to the principal.

Fall Sports–

• Football: Varsity & Junior Varsity
• Field Hockey: Varsity & Junior Varsity
• Soccer: Varsity & Junior Varsity
• Volleyball: Varsity & Junior Varsity
• Cross Country: Varsity
• Boys Golf: Varsity

Winter Sports–

• Basketball: Varsity & Junior Varsity
• Wrestling: Varsity & Junior Varsity
• Indoor Track & Field: Varsity
• Alpine Ski/Nordic Ski: Varsity

Spring Sports–

• Baseball: Varsity & Junior Varsity
• Softball: Varsity & Junior Varsity
• Lacrosse: Varsity
• Girls Golf: Varsity
• Track & Field: Varsity
• Tennis: Varsity

• Anime Club
• Art Club
• Chess Club
• Diversity Club
• Drama Club
• FFA Club (Future Farmers of America)
• Environmental Club
• Human Rights Club
• Math Team
• Mock Trial
• Musical
• National Honor Society
• Newcomers Uplifted
• School Newspaper
• Science Olympiad
• Stage Crew
• Student Congress
• Theatre in the Arts Club
• World Language Club
• Yoga Club
• Youth in Action/Key Club

New Clubs may be added. Some may no longer be available.

Rondout Valley High School recognizes the first priority of our students’ education is academic excellence. Extracurricular activities are also important to the development of our young men and women. Participating in extracurricular activities is encouraged, but it is not a right. Rather, it is a privilege. Listed below are the procedures and responsibilities to participate in all extracurricular activities. Extracurricular activities are defined as athletics, clubs, and any non-credit activity outside of the school day.

1. Eligibility is carried over from previous year (4th quarter)
2. A student is placed on academic probation when:
   They fail one or more core academic classes after any 5-week period. This includes the 4th quarter of the previous year.
3. Procedure for students placed on academic probation:
   For sports, the student meets with the Athletic Director. For other extracurricular programs, the student meets with the Assistant Principal.
   
   - Failure of one or more classes after any 5-week period during a quarter will result in an academic plan. Failure of a core course (English, Math, Social Studies, and Science) will result in mandatory academic-scholar support by designated staff.
   - The plan will be submitted to the teacher of the class they are failing for approval then the Athletic Director/Assistant Principal. This plan may include after school help, tutor, and/or support during the school day.
   - If the student does not attend academic-scholar support needed (unless given approval by the teacher or an administrator), they will immediately become ineligible to participate in any school activity until further notice.
   - Students that failed a core course the previous year are automatically assigned to academic-scholar support until the 5-week marking period. If in good standing, they will not be required to attend academic-scholar support.
   - If the athlete does not follow the plan, they cannot participate in games/contests.
   - Athletes that continually fail classes must meet with the coach, their parents/guardians, guidance counselor and Athletic Director to discuss this problem.

Because students represent Rondout Valley on and off the field, they are expected to maintain a high behavioral standard. Students may be suspended or dismissed from extracurricular activities by the coach/advisor, Athletic Director, and Principal for citizenship reasons. These include disorderly conduct at any event or practice, profanity, truancy, insubordination, fighting, cyber-bullying, and other conduct that violates the student code of conduct applicable to all students.

Students entering school after 9:00 AM are not eligible to participate in activities that day. Exceptions:

• Seniors that have late arrival status and who arrive on time for their first scheduled class.
• A legal excuse such as a doctor’s appointment or school related activity.

1. Spectators are an important part of the game and should at all times conform to accepted standards of sportsmanship and behavior.
2. Spectators should show respect for officials, coaches, and players.
3. Enthusiastic and wholesome cheering is encouraged.
4. Disrespectful remarks should be avoided.
5. Bells or noisemakers of any kind are not acceptable for indoor athletic activities.
6. During the free throw in basketball, spectators should refrain from making excessive noise.
7. Spectators should encourage all people to observe the Code of Ethics of the Mid-Hudson Athletic League (MHAL). Those who do not respond should be reported to the proper school authorities immediately.
8. Spectators should observe and obey the rules and regulations of the school concerning smoking, food and soft drink consumption, use of lavatory facilities, and parking of cars.
9. New York State law prohibits alcoholic beverages of any kind on school property. The law further prohibits any person under the influence of alcohol to be on school property.
10. Spectators should respect and obey all school officials, state police, county sheriff department personnel, and police at all athletic contests.
11. For flagrant and/or repeated violation of this code, spectators will be evicted from the area and denied the privilege of attending all future extracurricular activities for the balance of the school year. Student violators of this denial of spectator privilege will be subject to discipline, including suspension from school.
12. No smoking is permitted on school grounds.
13. Parking is permitted only in designated spaces.
14. Only designated lavatories may be used.
15. Follow food and drink guidelines designated for the area. No food or drink is permitted in any gymnasium.
16. No dogs are permitted on school grounds.

Rondout Valley High School maintains an active Chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS). The NHS is a service organization whose members serve the school and the community. Students must have a cumulative average of 90 or higher based on credit bearing courses to be eligible to apply. Eligible students will be given an application by the NHS advisor after the close of the second quarter. There will be a spring selection process in March and an induction in April.

NHS Guidelines– The object of this chapter shall be to create an enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote worthy leadership, and to encourage the development of character in students of Rondout Valley High School. Candidates shall have spent at least one semester in Rondout Valley High School, and shall be members of the sophomore or junior class. Candidates eligible for election to the chapter shall have a scholarship average of 90%. This scholastic level of achievement shall remain fixed, and shall be for this chapter the required scholastic achievement for admission to candidacy for membership in this chapter. All students who can rise in scholarship to or above such standard level shall be admitted for election to membership. A letter of notification and application will be mailed to the student’s residence. Their eligibility shall then be considered for Service, Leadership, and Character. Their continued membership shall then be dependent upon maintaining the required scholastic achievement and character, as well as continuing their service and leadership qualities.