Student/ Parent Handbook

RMHS Student Handbook Accessible Version

Welcome to Rocky Mount High School!

NCPS District Mission Statement

The Nash County Public School System, working in partnership with our families and our communities, will:

Be a high performing, technology-rich school district with leading-edge learning experiences that promote engagement, creativity, critical thinking and achievement.
Prepare our graduates to excel in higher education or the career of their choice
Be the leader in the education marketplace by providing world-class facilities while being fiscally responsible
Provide a safe and secure environment
Ensure all teachers are highly effective.

RMHS Vision Statement

Rocky Mount High School will be the highest performing high school in the Nash County School District.

RMHS Mission Statement

Rocky Mount High School will ensure that all students are healthy, safe, supported, engaged and challenged. Together, by fostering caring and respectful relationships between faculty, students and families, we create a learning environment of shared responsibility through rigor and relevance for everyone to reach optimal performance.

We believe:

A safe and orderly school environment promotes learning for all students.
Relationships between the school, families, and the community are essential to the success of students.
Students who are actively engaged in learning will experience success.
Student involvement in extracurricular activities builds character and promotes healthy self-esteem.
Positive recognition supports positive results.
A strong professional learning community comprised of reflective practitioners and lifelong learners improves student achievement.
Graduation is an integral step in the pathway to lifelong learning.

FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION!

At RMHS students do not have the right to fail!

Make it a great year Gryphons!

School Calendar 2022-2023 Bell Schedules

REGULAR BELL SCHEDULE

7:23	7:30	Report to First Period
7:30	9:00	First Period
9:00	9:04	Change Classes
9:04	9:26	Connections

9:26	9:30	Change Classes
9:30	11:00	Second Period
11:00	11:04	Change Classes
11:04	12:56	Third Period
11:04	11:29	1st Lunch
11:33	11:58	2nd Lunch
12:02	12:27	3rd Lunch
12:31	12:56	4th Lunch
12:56	1:00	Change Classes
1:00	2:30	Fourth Period

Two-Hour Delay Schedule

9:23	9:30	Report to First Period
9:30	10:35	First Period
10:35	10:39	Change Classes
10:39	11:44	Second Period
11:44	11:48	Change Classes
11:48	1:50	Third Period
11:48	12:13	1st Lunch
12:17	12:42	2nd Lunch
12:46	1:11	3rd Lunch

1:15	1:40	4th Lunch
1:40	1:44	Change Classes
1:44	2:30	Fourth Period

Two-Hour Early Release Schedule

7:23	7:30	Report to First Period
7:30	8:28	First Period
8:28	8:32	Change Classes
8:32	9:30	Second Period
9:30	9:34	Change Classes
9:34	10:34	Third Period
10:34	10:38	Change Classes
10:38	11:03	1st Lunch
11:03	11:07	Transition
11:07	11:32	2nd Lunch
11:32	11:36	Transition
11:36	12:01	3rd Lunch
12:01	12:05	Transition
12:05	12:30	4th Lunch
10:38	12:30	Fourth Period

GENERAL Information

The Rocky Mount High School student body consists of approximately twelve hundred students residing in the Rocky Mount High School attendance zone in the ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grades, and a limited number of tuition students.

Discrimination

Nash County Public Schools does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, sex, age, disability, or national origin in admission to, access to, and treatment in its programs and activities. Students and parents are encouraged to submit any complaints of unlawful discrimination, harassment, or bullying, through the grievance procedure established in Policy Code 1740/4010, Student and Parent Grievance Procedure in Nash County Public Schools Policy Manual.

Title IX Coordinator: Secondary Education Specialist Section 504 Coordinator: Director of Exceptional Children, Nash County Public Schools, 930 Eastern Avenue, Nashville, NC 27856.

Homework

The need for homework varies according to the content and levels of courses. Its value lies in practicing skills and doing research. Parents are to encourage regular, organized study, to show interest in assignments, to expect satisfactory performance, and to provide the proper conditions for home study.

Library-media center Information

The library/media center is open from 7:10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily. Students who wish to visit the library/media center during the day must obtain a hall pass from a teacher. All students must sign in when they enter the library. Students may check out books, magazines, certain reference books, and/or Kindles from the library. A student may check out no more than two items at any one time. Books may be checked out for 14 days and renewed for another two weeks. Magazines may be checked out overnight, but are due back in the library/media center before school ends the next day. The fine for overdue items is $.05 per day.

All fines must be paid before additional materials can be checked out. Unfulfilled financial obligations will become Senior Debts.

In addition to printed materials, various electronic resources are available to students. Students may search the computerized card catalog as well as periodical indexes, encyclopedias, dictionaries, atlases, and other digital reference sources.

The Internet is available to students for curriculum-related assignments on all library/media center computers. Students must have a signed copy of the Nash County Public Schools Internet Acceptable Use Policy on file in the library/media center before they can use the Internet and other online references.

Students may print from computers at a cost of $.10 per page. Students may also print using the color printers in the library/media center at a cost of $.25 per page. Students may also have photocopies made in the library/media center at a cost of $.10 per page. A library printing card must be purchased and used for printing or copying needs.

The library/media center represents the single most important resource center in the school. Students are encouraged to use the library for reading, study, research, and personal growth. In order for the library to provide quality services to everyone, students who visit the library must be quiet and orderly at all times.

NO food or beverages are allowed in the library/media center.

Lockers

Lockers assigned to students belong to the school and can be searched. School personnel may conduct periodic inspections. Students will be expected to pay for damage/vandalism to their lockers. It is the student’s responsibility to provide his/her own lock and to open that lock if requested to do so by an administrator. NO keyed locks allowed.

Combination locks ONLY. Please see Dr. Williams to share the combination for your lock and obtain a locker assignment.

FERPA: Rights of Access to Student Records

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

Parents of students or 18-year-old students have the right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the principal receives a request for access. Parents and eligible students may have a copy of the records for a standard copying fee of 10 cents per page.

Parents of students or 18-year-old students have the right to request the amendment of the student’s records. If parents or adult students believe something in the records is inaccurate or misleading, they should submit to the school principal a written request that clearly identifies the part of the record they want changed and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.

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

Parents of students or 18-year-old students have the right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s records, except to the extent FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. Records will not be released to most persons or agencies without the written consent of the parent or eligible student, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an educational record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. A school official is a person employed by the school system as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the school system has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

It is the policy of the Nash County Public Schools Administrative Unit to forward school records, without consent, to school officials in another unit to which a student seeks or intends to enroll. This is to facilitate the prompt placement of the student in the new school. However, parents may request a copy of the record. Similarly, without consent, the unit forwards transcripts, or other information requested by high school students, to colleges and other educational institutions to which the students are applying.

Parents of students or 18-year-old students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failure by this school system to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Ave. SW

Washington, DC 20202-4605

It is the policy of the Nash County Public Schools Administrative Unit to destroy information of a sensitive nature (e.g., exceptional children’s records) five years after a student graduates or one year after a non-graduate reaches 21 years of age. However, parents may request that such sensitive information be destroyed immediately after it is determined that a student is no longer in need of special services. In rare instances, these records may be needed by the student or the parents for Social Security benefits or other similar purposes. Especially in these situations, the parents or the students may wish to secure a copy of these records for their files.

Also, federal law permits a school unit to identify certain information as “directory information” which may be publicly released without permission of the parents. The Nash County Public Schools Administrative Unit identifies this

information as the following: name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, diplomas and awards received and most recent previous school attended. In addition, in compliance with North Carolina General Statute GS 20-11(n) and 20-13.2(c1), we will also include as directory information student performance determining eligibility for a driver’s permit. Any parent or eligible student who objects to the release of any or all of this information without consent must make written notification to the principal of the school where the records are kept within 15 days of the opening day of school in the fall semester. The objection must state what information the parent or student does not want to be classified as directory information. If we do not receive your notice by that date, we will assume that you have no objection to release of such information. We make every reasonable effort to protect our students’ privacy. For example, it is our policy not to release information to businesses for commercial purposes, and we do not release information to individuals without good reason. Therefore, most parents do not restrict the release of directory information.

For a complete copy of the Nash County Public Schools Administrative Unit’s student record policy, contact your school principal. Parents who have questions, concerns or complaints about the student record policy may direct them to the principal, the Superintendent or the U.S. Department of Education.

--Legal Ref: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, (20USC 1232g); 34CFR Part 99 North Carolina General Statutes 115C-566, and 20-11

NOTICE REGARDING ACCESS TO STUDENTS AND RELEASE OF STUDENT INFORMATION

By federal law, this school system must provide to U.S. Military recruiters upon request, secondary students’ names, home addresses, telephone listing and provide such recruiters the same access to students which this system generally provides to post-secondary educational institutions and prospective employers, UNLESS the student, the student’s parent or legally appointed custodian or guardian has requested in writing that such information about the student not be released. All such written requests shall be submitted to the Superintendent’s office at 930 Eastern Avenue, Nashville, NC 27856. [See 10 US Code Section 503(c) (1)(A).]

NCPS BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES

Nash County Public Schools Board of Education policies can be found at each school in the principal’s office; The NCPS Administrative Offices, 930 Eastern Avenue, Nashville, NC; and on the NCPS web site, www.ncpschhols.net .

Nash County Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or disability in admission to, access to and treatment in its programs and activities.

Policies and Procedures

Administering Medicines to Students

The board recognizes that students may need to take medication during school hours. School nurse may administer drugs or medication prescribed by a healthcare practitioner upon the written request of the parents. To minimize disruptions to the school day, medicines should be taken at home rather than at school whenever possible. There is a Self-Medication Administration Form available at the Nurse’s Office and must be completed before Self-Administering any legal medications. (NCPS Board Policy Code 6125)

Checking In/OUT for Late Arrivals

Students arriving to school late should report to the Main Office to sign in.

Personal transportation issues will not be grounds for excused late arrival/check-in or absence from class or school.
Students returning after checking out of school should check-in through the Main Office.

Checking Out-(SECONDARY SCHOOLS)

Students may only be checked out of school by a parent, guardian, or person listed on the emergency contact card on file with the school. Written requests for check-out can be handled at the discretion of the administration. Parents/guardians/emergency contacts who come to check a student out from school, must present a valid ID. All students who leave school before the end of the school day must sign a log that is in check in/check-out (maintained in the principal’s office) indicating the time and reason for leaving school. The principal or designee will notify the student’s teacher, and the student’s absence from the class will be excused if approved by the principal or designee.

Students must leave campus immediately after checking out.
Failure to sign out properly or loitering will result in detention or suspension dependent upon prior actions with the student.
No check-outs between 2:15 and 2:30 PM

Course Selection and Changes

In the spring, students complete registration for the next school year, with parental approval, for the following school year. After courses are selected, changes will be made only in cases of computer scheduling errors, or cases with definite academic reasons to support the change. Schedule changes are at the discretion of the principal. Students and parents are to carefully consider graduation requirements, course content, course level, total course load and student involvement in work and extracurricular activities before making final course selections.

1:1 LAPTOP POLICY

All students will be issued laptops through the school. Students must pay a $20.00 technology fee. This fee can be paid at any time during the course of the school year. Students are responsible for the laptops and power cords once issued to them. Any damages to the computer must be reported immediately to the Media Coordinator. Students are responsible for any damages while the device is issued to them and may be assessed fees accordingly. Students are not to download unapproved software and may have to pay a re-imaging fee if they do so. The laptops are the property of the NCPS and as such may be inspected at any time. Students should not download illegal material or use the laptops in conjunction with any illegal or unethical activities. If a student laptop is stolen, the police should be contacted immediately and a police report filed. The parent must get a copy of the police report and bring it to the school.

Students should be good digital citizens by following these expectations:
- Using computers in a responsible and ethical manner.
- Obeying school rules concerning behavior and communication that apply to computer use.
- Using all technology resources in an appropriate manner so as to not damage school equipment.
- Using good “netiquette.” Netiquette is a courteous and respectful way to conduct oneself on-line while recognizing that not all online content is verified, correct, and appropriate.
- Keeping in mind that anything posted online may be accessible to other students, parents, teachers, future colleges, or employers in the future. Once something is online, it can sometimes be shared in ways not intended.
- Helping the NCPS protect the computer system by contacting an administrator about any security problems they may encounter.
- Monitoring all activity on their account(s).
- Always logging off the computer after they are done working to protect their accounts and files. If a student does not log off, any email or Internet activity under their name will be considered their responsibility.
- Charge computers at home. Charging in the classroom creates a safety hazard. If needed, students may charge their laptops in the media center during lunch. Students should not stream music, charge cell phones, play video games, or engage in other non-educational activities on the laptops that will drain the battery faster than normal use.
- Returning their laptop to the NCPS Technology Department at the end of each school year. Students who graduate early, withdraw, are suspended or expelled, or terminate enrollment at the NCPS for any other reason must return their individual school laptop computer on or before the date of exit.

Teachers have discretion as to when laptops should be used in the classroom. Teachers may instruct students to remove laptops from their desk and store appropriately during classroom activities that may not require digital resources. Refusal by a student to follow the teacher’s direction regarding laptops will result in disciplinary action.

Enrollment Information

Students who wish to enroll must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and should present records from the previous school. State law requires complete immunization records within one month after enrollment. Board of Education policy requires that any student who does not meet this guideline be suspended. Parents or guardians must have proof of residence in the form of official documents from a government, banking or leasing agency.

Food, DRINK AND Lunch Regulations

All food and drink purchased off campus shall be consumed or disposed of before entering the building.
Breakfast will be served in the cafeteria from 7:10 AM – 7:25 AM and will not be an excuse to be late for first period class.
The cost for breakfast and lunch will be free.
During lunch, food may be consumed in the cafeteria only.
Foods and beverages (other than water) may NOT be consumed in the classrooms.
During lunch, there are four serving lines from which students may choose.
Seniority of class or grade has no privilege; therefore breaking in line will not be tolerated at any time. Violators will be sent to the back of the line.
Teachers are permitted to go to the head of the lunch line since they may have various duties during the lunch period.
Trash/ recycling receptacles are located at convenient places in the designated eating area. Students are responsible for cleaning their tables and throwing their trash in the proper place.
Students may bring lunch from home but are not allowed to have food delivered for lunch.
Students are allowed to remain in the designated eating areas. The parking lots, the exteriors of the building and designated hallways are off-limits during lunch. Lunch off campus is not permitted by school board policy.

Grievance Procedure

It is the policy of the Nash County Board of Education that all students shall have the right to present for solution any problem arising within their status as students and shall be encouraged to exercise this right without fear of recrimination. It is for this purpose that a grievance procedure is established. To ensure that any problem is corrected as soon as possible, time limits have been established to assure prompt attention to each problem. If the student does not process his/her grievance within the set time limit, it shall be considered settled and not open to appeal.

The grievance procedure may be used to address any situation occurring within the operation or normal procedures of the school, which causes a student and/or parent to believe there has been a violation, misapplication or misinterpretation or law, regulation or Board policy, except in the case of long-term suspension, which are governed by NCPS Policy Code 4361. Students and their parents are encouraged to discuss their concerns informally with the person(s) involved before invoking formal grievance procedures. Please refer to NCPS Board Policy Code 1740/4010 for more details.

Search and Seizure

To maintain order and discipline in the schools and to protect the safety and welfare of students and school personnel, school authorities may search a student, student lockers, or student automobiles under the circumstances outlined below and may seize any illegal, unauthorized, or contraband materials discovered in the search.

As used in this policy, the term “unauthorized” means any item dangerous to the health or safety of students or school personnel, or disruptive of any lawful function, mission or process of the school, or any item described as unauthorized in school rules available beforehand to the student.

Personal Searches – A student’s person and/or personal effects (i.e. purse, book bag, etc.) may be searched whenever a school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe that the student is in possession of illegal or unauthorized materials.

Locker Searches – Student lockers are school property and remain at all times under the control of the school; however, students are expected to assume full responsibility for the security of their lockers. School authorities for any reason may conduct periodic general inspections of lockers at any time without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant.

Automobile Searches – Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not of right. The school retains authority to conduct routine patrols of student parking lots and inspection of the exteriors of student automobiles on school property. The interiors of student vehicles may be inspected whenever school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe that illegal or unauthorized materials are contained inside. Such patrols and inspections may be conducted without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant.

Particularized Suspicions – Personal Search – A hand-held or walk-through metal detector may be used to check a particular students’ person(s) and personal effects whenever a school authority has reasonable grounds for suspecting that the student or students is/are in possession of a weapon prohibited on school property, on a school bus, or at a school activity in violation of Board policy prohibiting weapons. If a hand-held detector check of the person of a particular student under suspicion is conducted, it will be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex and with an adult witness present.

Generalized Suspicions – Full Search – Metal detectors may be used to screen or search a particular student when a school administrator has reasonable grounds for suspecting that there is a weapon on school property, on school buses, or at a school activity in the possession of an unidentified student and that screening all students present will turn up evidence of the weapon.

Administrative Screening- Safety/Deterrence – Administrative screening of an entire student body of a particular school, or a random sampling thereof may be carried out under such circumstances as, in the opinion of the Superintendent and the chief administrator of the school where the search is to be conducted, a search is necessary to accomplish any of the following objectives:

Foster student and parent confidence in the safety of our schools and school activities;
Deter the presence of weapons on school property, on school buses, and at school related events;
Dispel student and public concerns that there are “weapons at school”;
Promote an environment conducive to orderly and disciplined learning and training that is free from fear of physical harm by persons with weapons.

Telephone Messages

The main office staff receives all incoming phone calls. Only messages of an emergency nature will be delivered to students immediately. Other messages will be delivered at the discretion of the office staff. Phone calls shall not be transferred to students in class. *Parents should not text or call student cell phones during the school day as this can create a disruption to the learning environment.*

Visitors

All visitors on campus during school hours must report to the main office before proceeding to any other part of the school building.

Withdrawals

1. A student withdrawing from school must do so through the Student Services.

1. All fines, fees and other financial obligations must be paid and the parking tag returned and laptop returned before any report card is issued or transcript is sent to another school.

Scholastic Affairs

The board recognizes the importance of setting rigorous graduation requirements to help ensure that students are receiving an education that will prepare them to be productive members of society.

In order to graduate from high school, students must meet the following requirements:

successful completion of all course unit requirements mandated by the State Board of education (see Section A);
beginning in the 2014-2015 school year, successful completion of cardiopulmonary resuscitation instruction; and

successful completion of all other requirements mandated by the board, as provided in this policy

The principal shall ensure that students and parents are aware of all graduation requirements. Guidance program staff shall assist students in selecting their high school courses to ensure that students are taking all of the required units and selecting electives consistent with their post-graduation plans. For students who have transferred to the school system during high school or who, for other reasons, have completed course work outside of the school system, the principal shall determine what course work will be applied as credit toward graduation. The principal shall consider the requirements of the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (G.S. 115C-407.5) and the requirements of subsection D.3 of this policy in determining the graduation requirements for children of military families.

COURSE UNITS REQUIRED

Beginning with students entering the ninth grade for the first time in the 2009-2010 school year, students must fulfill the requirements of the Future-Ready Core Course of Study, unless they are approved for the Future-Ready Occupational Course of Study. Course unit requirements for the Future-Ready Core Course of Study may differ depending on the year a student enters ninth grade for the first time.

Future-Ready Core Course of Study Credits Required for Students Entering Ninth Grade for the First Time in 2012-2013 and Thereafter

Courses Required	State Requirements	Local Requirements
English	4 Sequential (English I, II, III & IV)
Mathematics	4 (either Math I, Math II, Math III and a fourth math course aligned with the student’s post-high school plans
Science	3 (a physical science course, Biology and earth/environmental science)
Social Studies	4 (including Civics & Economics; American History Parts I and II OR AP U.S. History and one additional social studies elective; and World History)
Health/P.E.	1
Electives	6 (2 electives must be any combination of Career and Technical Education, Arts Education or World Language; 4 must be from one of the following: Career and Technical Education, R.O.T.C., Arts Education or any other subject area or cross-	12 (including state- required 6 electives)

	disciplinary course. A four-course concentration is recommended.)***
Total Credits	22	28

* Students participating in the Career & College Promise program may earn high school credit for college courses (“dual credit”) according to the Career & College Promise program guidelines established by the Department of Public Instruction.

** Students seeking to complete minimum application requirements for UNC universities must complete four mathematics courses, including a fourth math course with Algebra II or Integrated Math III as a prerequisite.

*** Students seeking to complete minimum application requirements for UNC universities must complete two years of a second language.

Future-Ready Core Course of Study Credits Required for Students Entering Ninth Grade for the First Time in 2009-2010, 2010-2011 or 2011-2012.

Courses Required	State Requirements	Local Requirements
English	4 sequential (English I, II, III and IV)*
Mathematics	4 (either Math I, Math II, Math III and a fourth math course aligned with the student’s post-high school plans OR Integrated Math I, II and III and a fourth math course aligned with the student’s post-high school plans) (A principal may exempt a student from this math sequence. Exempt students will be required to pass either (1) Math I and either Math II or (2) Integrated Math I and II. Exempt students also must pass either Alternative Math I and II or two other application- based math courses.)**
Science	3 (a physical science course, Biology and earth/environmental science)
Social Studies	3 (Civics & Economics, U.S. History and World History)
Health/P.E.	1
Electives	6 (2 electives must be any combination of Career and Technical Education, Arts Education or World Language; 4 must be from one of the following: Career and Technical Education, R.O.T.C., Arts Education or any other subject area or cross- disciplinary course. A four-course concentration is recommended.)***

Total Credits

* Effective with the tenth grade class of 2011-2012, Early College High School students alternatively may complete college level English courses designated by the State Board in lieu of English III and IV.

*** Students seeking to complete minimum application requirements for UNC universities must complete two years of a second language.

Future-Ready Occupational Course of Study Credits Required (only available to certain students with disabilities who have an IEP)

Courses Required	State Requirements	Local Requirements
English	4 (including Occupational English I, II, III and IV)
Mathematics	3 (including OCS Introduction to Math, OCS Math I (Math A), and Financial Management)
Science	2 (including OCS Applied Science and OCS Biology)
Social Studies	2 (including American History I and II)
Health/P.E.	1
Career/Technical	4 (Vocational Education electives)
World Language	0
Occupational Preparation	6 (including Occupational Preparation I, II, III and IV, which require 300 hours of school-based training, 240 hours of community-based training and 360 hours of paid employment or 360 hours of any combination of unpaid vocational training, unpaid internship experience, paid employment at community rehabilitation facilities and volunteer and/or community service hours)
Electives	0
Other Requirements
Total Credits	22

Completion of IEP objectives
Career Portfolio

HIGH SCHOOL COURSE-SPECIFIC ASSESSMENTS

Students must take all course-specific assessments as required by the State Board of Education.

As outlined in NC State Board Policy GCS-A-016, Nash County Public Schools will utilize the results from all course-specific operational assessments as twenty percent (20%) of the student’s final grade for each respective course. This requirement applies only to high school courses. State course-specific assessments should be the only final exam for the courses for which they are available. All final exams (teacher made, End-of-Course, NC Final Exam, or CTE post-assessments) will be utilized as 20% of the student’s final grade.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

The board adopts the following policies with regard to education:
1. Honor Graduates - Honor graduates may be designated by principals on the basis of criteria established by the superintendent. A student who completes the requirements of the North Carolina Academic Scholars Program will receive recognition, including a seal affixed to his or her diploma. Recognition of honor graduates may be included in graduation programs.
2. Students with Disabilities - Graduation requirements must be applied to students with disabilities to the extent required by state and federal law and State Board policy.
3. Children of Military Families - In order to facilitate the on-time graduation of children of military families, the board adopts the following policy provisions for students to whom the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children applies.
  1. Waiver Requirements - Specific course work required for graduation will be waived if similar course work has been satisfactorily completed in another school system. If a waiver is not granted, school administrators shall provide the student with reasonable justification for the denial. If a waiver is not granted to a student who would qualify to graduate from the sending school, the superintendent or designee shall provide the student with an alternative means of acquiring the required course work so that the student may graduate on time.
  2. Testing Requirements for Graduation - The superintendent shall accept the following in lieu of any local testing requirements for graduation: (1) the end-of-course exams required for graduation from the sending state; (2) national norm-referenced achievement tests; or (3) alternative testing. If these alternatives are not feasible for a student who has transferred in his or her senior year, subsection c below will apply.
  3. Transfers During Senior Year - If a child of a military family who has transferred at the beginning of or during his or her senior year is ineligible to graduate from the school system after all of the alternatives listed above have been considered and the student meets the graduation requirements at his or her sending school, then school officials from the school system shall collaborate with the sending school system to ensure that the student will receive a diploma from the sending board of education.
4. Early Graduation - Graduation prior to that of one’s class may be permitted on the basis of criteria approved by the board upon recommendation by the superintendent.
5. Graduation Certificates - Graduation certificates will be awarded to eligible students in compliance with State Board policy.
6. Diploma Endorsements - Beginning with the graduating class of 2014-2015, students will have the opportunity to earn an endorsement to their diploma identifying a particular area of focused study including: (1) Career Endorsement, (2) College Endorsement, (3) College Plus Endorsement, and/or (4) North Carolina Academic Scholars Endorsement. No endorsement is required to receive a diploma, and a student may earn more than one endorsement.

Legal References: G.S. 115C-47 , -81 , -174.11 , -276 , -288 , -407.5; State Board of Education Policies GCS-C-003, GCS-

L-007, GCS-N-004, -010

Cross References: Goals and Objectives of the Educational Program (policy 3000), Student Promotion and Accountability (policy 3420), Citizenship and Character Education (policy 3530), Children of Military Families (policy 4050)

Adopted: June 29, 2009

Revised: June 14, 2010; February 7, 2011; August 1, 2011; September 9, 2013; January 6, 2014; August 2016

Content Area	For some Ninth Graders with Cognitive Disabilities 2000 - >	For Ninth Graders Entering in 2009 – 2011-12	For Ninth Graders Entering in 2012-13 and Later
	OCCUPATIONAL	FUTURE-READY	FUTURE-READY
	Course of Study	CORE	CORE
	Requirements
	(Selected IEP students excluded from EOC Proficiency Level requirements)
English	4 credits Occupational English I,II,III, IV	4 Credits I, II, III, IV	4 Credits I, II, III, IV
Mathematics	3 credits Occupational Mathematics I, II, III	4 Credits Integrated Math I, II, III, and a 4th Math Course to be aligned with the student’s post high school plans A student, in rare instances, may be able to take an alternative math course sequence as outlined under State Board of Education policy. Please see your school counselor for more details.	4 Credits Integrated Math I, II, III, and a 4th Math Course to be aligned with the student’s post high school plans A student, in rare instances, may be able to take an alternative math course sequence as outlined under State Board of Education policy. Please see your school counselor for more details.
Science	2 Credits Life Skills Science I, II	3 Credits Environmental Science, Biology, a physical science course	3 Credits Environmental Science, Biology, a physical science course
Social Studies	2 Credits Social Studies I (Government/ Us History) Social Studies II (Self- Advocacy/Problem Solving)	4 Credits World History, Civics and Economics, American History I and II	4 Credits World History, American History Part I and II, Civics and Economics (AP US History must be paired with Special Topics in US History to meet the two course requirement.)
World Languages	Not required	Not required for high school graduation. A two-credit minimum is required for admission to a university in the UNC system.	Not required for high school graduation. A two-credit minimum is required for admission to a university in the UNC system.
Health and Physical Education	1 Credit Health/Physical Education	1 Credit Health/Physical Education	1 Credit Health/Physical Education
Electives or	Occupational Preparation:	6 Credits required	6 Credits required
other requirements ***	6 Credits: Occupational Preparation I, II, III, IV Elective credits/completion of IEP objectives/Career Portfolio required Career/Technical:	2 elective credits of any combination from either: -Career and Technical Ed. (CTE) -Arts Education -World Languages 4 elective credits strongly recommended (four course concentration) from one of the	2 elective credits of any combination from either: -Career and Technical Ed. (CTE) -Arts Education -World Languages 4 elective credits strongly recommended (four course concentration) from one of the
	4 Credits	following:	following:
	Career/Technical Education electives	-Career and Technical Ed. (CTE) -JROTC	-Career and Technical Ed. (CTE) -JROTC

Arts Education:

Recommended at least one credit in an arts discipline.

-Arts Education (e.g. dance, music, theater arts, visual arts)

-Any other subject area (e.g. social studies, science, mathematics, English)

-Arts Education (e.g. dance, music, theater arts, visual arts)

-Any other subject area (e.g. social studies, science, mathematics, English)

Total

22 Credits

22 Credits plus 7 additional electives

(28 total credits)

22 Credits plus 6 additional electives

(28 total credits)

Unit Requirements for Graduation

Class of 2013 and Beyond: 28 units* (except OccuPrep)

Credits in one of the following Courses of Study
Future-Ready Core
4 Credits of English
4 Credits of Math, including Math I, Math II, Math III, and an advanced math course
3 Credits of Science, including a physical science, Biology, and Earth/Environmental Science
4 Credits of Social Studies, including Civics, American History Part I and II, and World History
1 Credit of Required Health/PE
12 elective credits of either CTE, JROTC, Arts Education, or any other subject area course. Students are strongly encouraged to choose a concentration in one of these elective areas in order to complete higher level courses, and in the case of CTE for credentialing in a vocational area.

Promotion Requirements

To be a sophomore (Grade 10)

5 credits

To be a junior (Grade 11)

12 credits

To be a senior (Grade 12)

20 credits

To graduate

28 credits

Modified schedule

The Board may, in its discretion, arrange for the early dismissal of individual high school students who present extreme hardship cases in order that they might work or for similar reasons. Such students may be dismissed at the end of one- half of the school day, to be interpreted as one-half the class periods offered in that school.

Students in school-related work programs may leave early with permission of the program coordinators. Early dismissal for reasons other than those previously stated are reviewed by the principal and granted only in rare and extenuating circumstances.

All early dismissals shall be documented and statements on file of permission of the parent/guardian and employers or other such persons who may be involved. The principal shall verify documentation. The request shall be investigated thoroughly with periodic evaluations of the situation, so as to determine that the early dismissal continues to be warranted.

Exam Exemption Policy

Students who maintain:
- an “A” average
- accumulate three or fewer absences in a course
- accumulate four or fewer tardies in a course
- accumulate four or fewer early check-outs in a course
may be exempt from teacher-made exams. Exemptions are not allowed for classes that have an EOC (End-of-Course), NC Final Exam, VoCATS test, or other mandatory state-made final exams.

Honor Roll Policy
Scholars List: A student must make a 90 or higher for each course each grade reporting period.
A/B Honor Roll: A student must achieve an overall 80 average without failing any subject or receiving an incomplete.
Academic Honor Roll: A student must achieve an overall 70 average without failing any subject or receiving an incomplete.

The Academic Honor Roll is not publicized outside the school. The Scholars List and A/B Honor Roll are used at all high schools in the Nash/Rocky Mount System and are the official publicized honor rolls.

Grading Scale for N.C. Public High Schools

All students in grades 3-12 will receive letter grades based on a 10-point grading scale:

A – 90-100
B – 80-89
C – 70-79
D – 60-69
F – Below 60

Grade Conversion Scale

Grade point values for students in grades 9-12 will be calculated based on the following conversion:
A – 4.0
B – 3.0
C – 2.0
D – 1.0

F – 0

Grade Weighting System

Point values for IB, AP, Community College and Honors courses change based on the following chart.

	Graduating Classes 2016, 2017, and 2018	Freshmen Class of 2015/2016 - Graduating Class of 2019 and Beyond
Honors	1 extra point	0.5 extra point
IB	2 extra points	1 extra point
AP	2 extra points	1 extra point

Community College Courses - According to the 2014 Comprehensive Articulation Agreement (CAA)

1 extra point

RMHS Grading Policy

For the purpose of assigning weights and percentages pertaining to grading, performance on assessments and homework shall not unduly handicap a student’s ability to succeed in a course. No teacher may exceed the following percentages when assigning weights to the categories in that course’s gradebook:

Assessments: 25%
Homework: 10%

In addition, no other single category (i.e. papers, projects, labs, classwork, participation, etc.) may exceed 35% of a course’s weighted grade. Teachers and departments may assign categories and weighted percentages in accordance with these guidelines.

Calculation of Class Rank

Beginning with the graduating class of 2019 (freshmen class of 2015/2016) graduates will be recognized using the following guidelines:

Summa cum laude – Top 2% (weighted)
Magna cum laude – Top 3% - 5% (weighted)
Cum laude – Top 6% - 10% (weighted)

**Percentage ranges may vary for Rocky Mount High School, due to the school's IB (International Baccalaureate) program

North Carolina Scholars Program Requirements

The North Carolina Scholars program honors students who, in addition to meeting regular graduation requirements meet these specifications:

(Effective for students who enter the ninth grade for the first time in or after 2009-2010.)

Begin planning for the program before entering ninth grade to ensure they obtain the most flexibility in their courses.
Complete all the requirements of the North Carolina Academic Scholars Program.
Have an overall four-year un-weighted grade point average of 3.500.

Complete all requirements for a North Carolina high school diploma.

	NC Academic Scholars Program Requirements
	Future Ready Core Course of Study
Credits	Courses/Project
4	English I, II, III, IV
4	Mathematics (should include Math I, Math II, Math III, and a higher level math course OR Integrated Mathematics I, II, III, and a higher level mathematics course with Integrated Mathematics III as Pre-requisite ) The fourth math must meet MAR (Minimum Admissions Requirements) for the UNC system.
3	Science (Physics or Chemistry course, Biology, and an Earth/Environmental Science course)

4	Social Studies (World History, Civics/Economics, American I and II, and U.S. History)
1	Health and Physical Education
6	Two (2) elective credits in a second language required for the UNC System Four (4) elective credits constituting a concentration recommended from one of the following: Career and Technical Education (CTE), JROTC, Arts Education, Second Languages, any other subject area
3	Higher level courses taken during junior and/or senior years which carry 5 or 6 quality points such as: -AP -IB - Dual or college equivalent course -Advanced CTE/CTE credentialing courses -On-line courses -Other honors or above designated courses
OR
2	Higher level courses taken during junior and/or senior years which carry 5 or 6 quality points such as: -AP -IB - Dual or college equivalent course -Advanced CTE/CTE credentialing courses -On-line courses -Other honors or above designated courses And Completion of The North Carolina Graduation Project (NRMPS Graduation Project fulfills the NC Graduation Project requirement).
24 or 23 + NCGP	Minimum state requirements + local requirements = 28 total credits.

NC Scholars are recognized by a red cord they wear at graduation and a special seal on their diplomas.

Honor Graduate Requirements

Students who have a cumulative weighted GPA average of 3.25 at the conclusion of their senior year will be recognized as Honor Graduates. Students who achieve this recognition wear a gold cord at graduation.

Vocational Honor Society Requirements

The National Vocational Honors Society honors students who, in addition to meeting regular graduation requirements, meet these specifications:

Must be a Senior
Must have a minimum overall GPA of 88 (3.00)
Must complete a CTE (Career-Technical Education) pathway
Must have completed or currently be enrolled in at least the 5th CTE unit
Must have an average grade of 93 (3.63) in CTE courses
Must complete Math II or Technical Math II
Must have a recommendation of a CTE teacher

Vocational Honor Society recipients are recognized by a white cord they wear at graduation.

University Of North Carolina System Requirements

In addition to meeting regular graduation requirements, the UNC system requires one (1) Math credit beyond Math III and two (2) credits of the same Foreign Language.

University of North Carolina System Campuses

NC A & T	UNC-Pembroke	UNC-Greensboro	UNC-Chapel Hill
NC State	UNC Asheville	Western Carolina	UNC-Wilmington
NC Central	UNC-Charlotte	Appalachian State	Win-Salem State

East Carolina

Fayetteville State

Elizabeth City State

NC School … Arts

College Application

Students may check out college catalogs from Student Services. Student Services also provides many college applications. Students are encouraged to refer to catalogs and contact the admissions offices of any university to which they plan to apply. Students should consult their counselors to allow ample time to submit applications, including time to attach transcripts. Students should begin planning during their junior year.

SAT: Reasoning Tests and Subject Tests

Test Date	Tests Offered	Regular Registration Closes	Late Registration Closes
Pending

Students may register online at http://sat.collegeboard.org/register/sat-us-dates .

American College Testing Program (ACT)

Test Date	Registration Ends	Late Registration (Late Fee Required)
Pending

Visit ACT’s website at http://www.actstudent.org/regist/dates.html .

TESTING

The ACT testing will be given in February for all juniors.

Advanced Placement Testing Dates TBA

2022 Exam Calendar - Week 1
	Morning - 8 a.m.	Afternoon - 12 p.m.

Studio Art — last day for Coordinators to submit digital portfolios (by 8 p.m. EDT May 10) and to gather 2-D Design and Drawing students for physical portfolio assembly.

Teachers should have forwarded students' completed digital portfolios to Coordinators before this date.

2022 Exam Calendar - Week 2
	Morning - 8 a.m.	Afternoon - 12 p.m.	Afternoon - 2 p.m

For more information, visit http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/public/exam/calendar/index.html .

Student Services

Students may obtain a variety of information from faculty, advisors, and Student Services. Counselors are available to students for both individual and group conferences to discuss personal problems, to interpret test data, and to provide educational and vocational guidance.

Counselors are available before and after school, during lunch periods, and with teachers’ permission, during class time. Students should not request to leave class to see their counselor except in an emergency situation.

Financial Aid Planning

A financial aid planning workshop for college-bound students and parents will be held in the auditorium during the month of January.

First Aid Room

The school nurse is on duty in the First Aid Room located in room 1141(Main Office). Students too sick to remain in class or in need of temporary first-aid treatment must get a pass from the classroom teacher before going to the school nurse. In instances when students are too ill to remain in school, the school nurse will contact the parents/guardians before the students are released from school.

Hotline Information

Various hotlines are available for students needing information on subjects such as substance abuse or support groups. Additional information may be obtained from the Dropout Prevention Counselor or through the Student Assistance Program. Contact the main office or the Student Services Department for any information or phone numbers.

Eastpointe (Nash & Edgecombe Counties) – Assistance if need help with mental health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and/or substance abuse ..1-800-913-6109 (24hrs/day)

My Sister’s House – Shelter and Support for Victims of Family Violence ….……1-888-465-9507 (24hrs/day)

Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Talk to someone now…………………………………...1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Mediation

Mediation is available through Student Services. The following guidelines should be followed for the most efficient use of your time:

Obtain the necessary Hall Pass from your teacher.
Report to Student Services to sign up for an appointment time.

Return to class. You will be called from class for the mediation. Absences from class due to mediation will be excused ONLY when you are called from class by Student Services.

Related Services for Students with Disabilities

Related services is defined in Procedures Governing Programs and Services for Children with Disabilities as follows: transportation and such developmental, corrective, and other supportive services as may be required to assist a child with a disability to benefit from special education. They include speech-language pathology and audiology; psychological services; physical and occupational therapy; recreation, including therapeutic recreation; social work services; medical and counseling services, including rehabilitation counseling; school health services; orientation and mobility services; and parent counseling and training. This includes the early identification and assessment of disabling conditions in children. Medical services shall be for diagnostic and evaluation purposes only.

To be eligible to receive related services, a child must:

have one or more of the disabilities listed in the definition from the Procedures Governing Programs and Services for Children with Disabilities;
require special education (Not all children who have a disability require special education; many can and should attend school without any program modification.); and

require the related service in order to benefit from the special education instruction.

Important Notice

Please be advised that for some of the Related Services listed above, if provided for your child by Nash CountyPublic Schools, the school system may be able to obtain reimbursement from the State Medicaid Program. As a state approved Medicaid provider, it may be necessary for the school system to share the following information to the State Department of Medicaid Administration on a monthly schedule:

Child’s name
Date of birth
Name of necessary service (speech, physical therapy)
Service provided
Amount of service provided (“30 minutes of speech therapy”)

Date(s) of service

This notice is given pursuant to applicable Federal regulations for the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, Title 34 C.F.R. §§99.31, 99.37 relating to directory information and the exception for the requirement of prior consent for disclosure. This information will only be shared with the State Department of Medicaid Administration and only for the limited purposes indicated above. The Nash County School’s receipt of Medicaid reimbursement for any of the Related Services listed above will, in no way, eliminate or reduce any Medicaid benefits you may be receiving from other agencies, doctors, clinic, or hospitals.

Student Organizations

Athletics

MEN’S		WOMEN’S
Baseball	Indoor Track	Basketball	Softball
JV Baseball	Soccer	JV Basketball	JV Softball
Basketball	JV Soccer	Cheerleading	Tennis
JV Basketball	Swimming	Cross Country	JV Tennis
Cross Country	Tennis	Golf	Track
Football	Track	Indoor Track	Swimming
JV Football	Wrestling	Soccer	Volleyball
Golf		JV Soccer

In order to be eligible for participation, including practice, a student must pass three subjects and be in attendance at least 85% of the preceding semester. Students cannot be 19 years of age on or before October 16. Players are eligible for eight consecutive semesters beginning with the fall of their ninth grade year.

Any JV or Varsity athlete charged with a felony is ineligible to participate in his/her sport until the charges are resolved. If the athlete is found guilty, he/she is ineligible to participate for any team for the remainder of the school year. Please see the Nash County School Board Policy for additional information.

Clubs

FCCLA	SGA	AFS
Key Club	International Club	Quiz Bowl
Journalism	National Honor Society

National Honor Society

Membership in the Wita A. Bond Chapter of the National Honor Society is by invitation. Induction takes place during grades eleven and twelve. Consideration for membership is extended to those students outstanding in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character.

Selection Process – Students eligible for membership have obtained:

Sophomore, Junior or Senior status;
Cumulative grade point average of 3.4;
One unit of an advanced course;
Enrollment at RMHS for one semester;
Active participation in at least two co-curricular activities.

Selection Procedure – All students have a fair and equal opportunity to be considered for membership. Certainly, selection for membership is a benefit. If not, there would be little desire to achieve it and little honor in receiving it. It should be understood that no student has a RIGHT to be selected and that the Faculty Council is entrusted with making selection decisions. Failure to be selected for membership is not a deprivation of or an abridgment to a legal right, and due process is not applicable. Students or their parents contesting non-selection are not entitled to a hearing or an explanation of the non-selection. The selection process however may be re-explained to parents/students by the principal.

A copy of the NHS BYLAWS may be obtained from the Principal’s office.

Student Behavior

Unless otherwise specified, this Board Policy Manual 4300 Series and the Positive Behavior Support system shall apply to all students before, during and after school hours, at school, in any school buildings and on any school premises; on any school-owned vehicles or in any other school-approved vehicle used to transport students to and from school or school activities; off school property or at any school-sponsored activity, event or function; during any period of time when students are subject to the authority of school personnel; and at any time when the student’s behavior has a direct and immediate effect on maintaining order and discipline and on protecting the safety and welfare of students and staff.

Any student who refuses to comply with reasonable rules, regulations or directives imposed by any principal, assistant principal, teacher or authorized school employee shall be held in violation of the Student Discipline Code and the Positive Behavior Support System.

The Board Policy Manual 4000 Series and the Positive Behavior Support System is not inclusive. Misconduct not specifically addressed in this code will be handled by the school administration on an individual basis. Depending upon facts and circumstances surrounding each instance of student misconduct, the school administration, at its discretion, may impose penalties it deems appropriate for the offense, including short-term suspension, unless specified by board

policy (indicated in bold in the bulleted Penalty statement). Parent conferences may be required in lieu of or in addition to school imposed penalties. Repeated instances of misconduct will result in more severe consequences.

All regulations in the code are subject to the due process contained in the Nash County Schools’ Board Policy Manual 4000 Series relative to Students.

Definitions

For the purpose of interpreting the code, the following definitions shall apply:

ALC (Alternative Learning Center) – To provide students with an environment conducive to learning, positive behavior and academic success. Students will be empowered through learning, mutual respect, academic and behavior improvement. A student can only be assigned to ALC by an administrator or designee.

Enrichment Activities – Assignment to a supervised environment after school.

Expulsion – The denial of the right to attend school and school functions for the remainder of the student’s secondary education. Recommendation for expulsion is made to the superintendent by the principal.

Loitering – Taking more time than obviously necessary to enter or vacate the premises when authorized or asked to do so.

Long-Term Suspension – The denial of the right to attend school and school functions for more than 10 days, but not exceeding a 365-day calendar year. Recommendation for long-term suspension is made to the superintendent by the principal.

Short-Term Suspension – The denial of the right to attend school and school functions for 10 days or less.

Truancy – To be out of class or away from school without proper school authorization.

Positive Behavior Support System

The Positive Behavior Support System provides consistency of what good behavior should be in all the major areas of school. It also provides for the framework of basic classroom and school rules that are or should be consistent from hall to hall and classroom to classroom. The following PBIS motto shows what is expected in each area of school. Students should use common sense and exercise good values with respect to personal behavior and when interacting with others.

Be a . . . .

Safe, Prepared, Responsible,

Respectful learner

at Rocky Mount High School

SPECIFIC OFFENSES

Cell Phones and other personal electronics

Although we understand the role cell phones and other electronic devices play in the lives of students, we will not allow them to be a disruptive force in the classroom. The privilege of possession and use of cell phones during the instructional day has been abused. We will not allow them to continue to be a disruptive force during instructional time. Students may not have phones on or visible during school hours, except during lunch. The only device students should be using in the classroom is the school issued laptop. Students may not use personal electronic equipment, during the regularly scheduled school day, unless it is utilized in instructional purposes approved by the teacher. Nash County Public Schools board policy 4318 permits students to possess but not use cell phones and other electronic signaling devices to place or receive telephone calls, to send or receive text messages or pages, or to use social media during the regularly scheduled school day. Students who possess these devices are to keep them out of sight and turned off. All students are required to adhere to the following guidelines regarding cell phones and other electronic signaling devices.

Cell phones and other personal electronic devices may be used:

On or off campus before or after school
During breakfast or assigned lunch period to listen to music, surf the web, or for educational purposes only (not to access social media sites or send/receive text messages, phone calls, or chats).
Students may use personal electronic devices when instructed by the teacher for instructional purposes.

Cell phones and other personal electronic devices may not be used during:
Instructional classroom time (unless approved by the teacher), including assemblies, pep rallies and any other activity, which takes place during the regularly scheduled classroom periods.
On field trips or excursions, which are conducted during the normal school day and during regular classroom instructional time.

*Parents, if you need to reach your child during the school day, you should call the main office so appropriate contact can be made. Students should not be receiving texts or phone calls from parents during the school day as that becomes a disruption to the learning environment.*

*Cell phones or other electronic devices, including the school issued laptop, are not permitted at any time during the school day to send or receive text/chat messages, access personal social media, or place or receive phone calls.*

Because of the threat to privacy and the integrity of the educational program, the use of the camera function of a cell phone is strictly prohibited on school premises or at school functions. (NCPS Board Policy Manual 4318)
Penalty – Any faculty or staff may confiscate cell phones or other electronic devices, which will be kept in a secure location in the main office until the end of the school day, at which time the device will be returned to the student. Refusal to allow confiscation shall result in a 3 day suspension (OSS).

BOMB THREAT OR HOAX – No student shall make a report by any means of communication, knowing or having reason to know the report is false, that there is located on any school premises a device designed to cause damage or destruction by explosion, blasting or burning. No student shall place on any school premises with intent of perpetrating a hoax, any device that would appear to a reasonable person to be a bomb or similar instrument capable of causing injury or damage.
Penalty – Mandatory long-term suspension for 365 days. Felony charges will also be brought before the appropriate law enforcement agencies. Parents may also face civil liability for the actions of children involved with such threats and hoaxes.

CANDY SALES – Students may not sell candy or other items for personal gain or for activities/events that are not school sponsored.
Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. All items will be confiscated and will be returned to a parent after a conference. Refusal to allow confiscation shall result in suspension.

CHEATING/PLAGIARISM/FALSIFICATION/FORGERY – Includes the actual giving or receiving of any unauthorized aid or assistance or the actual giving or receiving of unfair advantage on any form of academic work/the copying of the language structure, idea, or thought of another and representing it as one’s own original work/verbal or written statement of untruth/writing or presentation of written documents for fraudulent purposes.
Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. For cheating/plagiarism, each offense will result in a “0” on the test, examination or student work involved and parent notification of the offense. For falsification/forgery, depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted.

COMPUTER ACCESS VIOLATION/SOFTWARE COPYRIGHT LAW VIOLATIONS – Includes willfully,

directly or indirectly, accessing or causing to be accessed any computer, computer system, computer network, or any component thereof without proper authorization/the unauthorized duplication of computer software, software printed material, and/or knowingly using pirated computer software.
Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted, as well as loss of privileges to have computer(internet) access at school, and possible petition to court.

HALL PASS MISUSE – Being in an area other than where the hall pass gives authorization to be or not having a hall pass when a hall pass is needed.
Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted.

DISRESPECT – Any act involving profanity and/or vulgar or abusive language or gestures towards school personnel, refusing to obey a reasonable request by school personnel, such as refusing to give a name or giving the wrong name or failure to report to an administrator properly or in a timely manner when sent.
Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted.

DISRUPTION – Any action or behavior, which prevents teachers from teaching and students from learning, will not be tolerated. No student shall cause a substantial and material disruption or obstruction of any lawful mission, process, or function of the school. Though not inclusive, the following acts are the kind of conduct considered a disruption:

Using passive resistance, noise, threat, fear, intimidation, coercion, force, violence, or any other form of conduct, to intentionally cause the disruption, or the urging of another student to engage in such conduct;
Occupying any school building, school grounds, any school bus, or part thereof, maliciously or willfully depriving others of its use;
Blocking the entrance or exit of any school building, hallway, or room therein and thus maliciously depriving others of lawful access to and from, or use of, the building, corridor, or room;
Setting fire to or otherwise purposely damaging any school building/school property;
Firing, displaying, or threatening use of firearms, explosive, or other weapon on the school premises for any unlawful purpose prescribed by these rules;
Maliciously or willfully preventing or attempting to prevent, by physical act or otherwise, the covering or functioning of any school, class, or activity or any lawful meeting of assembly on school campus;
Maliciously or willfully preventing students from attending class or school activity;
Blocking normal pedestrian or vehicular traffic on a school campus;
Maliciously or willfully acting in any manner so as to interfere with any teacher’s ability to conduct a class or other school duty or activity.
- Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted, as well as long-term suspension, expulsion, and petitions filed in court for any threat to personal safety, serious property damage, or use of threat, fear, intimidation, coercion, force or violence.

Dress Code

Students are expected to be appropriately dressed at school at all times. Age, development, and body types are expected to be a part of the student’s good judgment. Reasonable consideration will be given to those students who for medical reasons or sincerely held religious beliefs request a waiver to this code.

Shorts, skirts, dresses and other clothing shall be modest and of sufficient length. When standing erect, fingers shall not be able to touch bare skin of the thigh.
Shirts, tops, and dresses shall cover the top of the shoulder and shall not gap below the armpit, or they shall be worn with a covering top or jacket, or a T-shirt with sleeves underneath. Tube tops are not allowed, even under another top or jacket. All shirts and tops shall appropriately cover the chest and back and be long enough to cover the midriff when sitting or standing and shall not be excessively long.
Pants shall not be worn with the waistband below the hipbone.
No leggings shall be worn without a long shirt that appropriately covers the bottom by meeting the fingertip test.
Undergarments shall not be visible at any time.
No see-through or mesh clothing that will reveal the body or undergarments shall be allowed.
No gang-related clothing, accessories, symbols or intimidating manner of dress, as identified by law enforcement, shall be allowed.
No adornment that reasonably could be perceived or used as a weapon shall be allowed (chains, spikes, etc.)
No head wear or sunglasses shall be worn inside the building.
No pajama attire, bedroom shoes or slippers allowed.
No clothing shall be allowed that depicts violence, profanity, vulgarity or obscenity, or is of a sexual nature or is deemed otherwise of a disruptive nature.

Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted. Students will not return to class until they are in compliance with the dress code.

GAMBLING – Students shall not participate in any unauthorized action or event which relies on chance for the monetary advantage of one participant at the expense of others.
- Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted. The items involved will be confiscated. Refusal to allow confiscation shall result in suspension.
  
  GANG RELATED ACTIVITY – GANG RELATED ACTIVITY WILL NOT BE TOLERATED AND WILL BE DEALT WITH SEVERELY.
  
  Gang related activity includes: Signing, Flagging, Violence, Tagging (Graffiti), and any other activities as identified by Law Enforcement or School Administration.
- Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted and may also include restitution for damages and/or a recommendation for a long term suspension or expulsion.
  
  HAZING – It shall be unlawful to engage in or aid and abet in hazing. No group or individual shall require or aid and abet the requiring of any student to wear abnormal dress or costume on campus, annoy another student by playing abusive or ridiculous tricks on him/her, frighten, scold, beat, or harass him/her or subject him/her to personal indignity.
- Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted, up to recommendation for long-term suspension and/or expulsion, if convicted under NC Criminal Statute 14-35.

ASSAULTS, THREATS, AND HARASSMENT Policy Code:4331

All students are entitled to work and study in school-related environments that are free of assaults, threats and harassment, (i.e. non-physical aggression). The Board of Education and RMHS will not tolerate assaults, threats or harassment from any student. Any student exhibiting such behavior will be removed from the classroom or school environment for as long as is necessary to provide a safe and orderly environment for learning. Except when certain consequences for misbehavior are required by law, principals in the elementary grades are directed to use good judgment and reasonable discretion in determining the appropriate consequence for violation of board policies, school standards or school rules.

Assault, Injury
1. Prohibited Behavior
  
  Students are prohibited from assaulting, physically injuring, attempting to injure or intentionally behaving in such a way as could reasonably cause injury to any other person. Assault includes engaging in a fight.
2. Consequences
  1. General Consequences
    
    Violation of this section may result in short-term suspension up to 10 days, long-term suspension, 365 day suspension or expulsion. The procedures for long-term suspension or expulsion are provided in board policy 4353, Long-Term Suspension, 365 Day Suspension, Expulsion. A determination of the appropriate consequence will be made in accordance with the provisions of that policy except as otherwise provided below. Placement in an alternative educational setting may be made instead of suspension in accordance with policy 3470/4305, Alternative Learning Programs/Schools, and/or as provided in Sections A.2.b and A.2.c of this policy.
  2. Consequences for Serious Assaults on School Personnel
    
    Any student who is found by the superintendent to be at least 13 years of age and to have physically assaulted and seriously injured school personnel must be removed to an alternative educational setting in accordance with G.S. 115C-391(d2). If an appropriate alternative educational setting is not available, the superintendent, upon recommendation of the principal, must suspend the student for no less than 300 days but no more than 365 days. A student may also be expelled for assaultive conduct when his or her behavior constitutes a clear threat to the safety of others. The principal shall make recommendations to the superintendent regarding placement decisions and the recommended length of the placement or the suspension, within the limits established by law, based at least in part upon recommendations of the principal of the school that constitutes the alternative setting. This section does not apply when the student was acting in self-defense.
  3. Consequences for Certain Physical Assaults of Adults and Students
    
    Upon the recommendation of the principal, the superintendent may remove a student to an alternative educational setting if the student is at least 13 and has:
    1. physically assaulted a teacher or other adult who is not a student;
    2. physically assaulted another student if the assault is witnessed by school personnel; or
    3. physically assaulted and seriously injured another student.
    This section applies to behavior that occurs on school property or at a school-sponsored or school-related event. It does not apply when a student was acting in self-defense. If no appropriate alternative educational setting is available, the superintendent may suspend the student for up to 365 days. A student may also be expelled for assaultive conduct when his or her behavior constitutes a clear threat to the safety of others. The principal will make recommendations to the superintendent regarding placement decisions and the recommended length of the placement or suspension, within the limits established by law.
    
    If the student is under age 13, the consequences for assault will be determined in accordance with the general guidelines in policy 4353, Long-Term Suspension, 365 Day Suspension, Expulsion, and the school behavior management plan (see policy 4302, School Plan for Management of Student Behavior).
Threatening Acts
1. Prohibited Behavior
  
  Students are prohibited from directing toward any other person any language that threatens force, violence or disruption, or any sign or act that constitutes a threat of force, violence or disruption.
2. Consequences
  
  Violation of this section may result in short-term suspension up to 10 days, long-term suspension or expulsion. The procedures for long-term suspension or expulsion are provided in policy 4353, Long-Term Suspension, 365 Day Suspension, Expulsion. A determination of the appropriate consequence will be made in accordance with the provisions of that policy. Placement in an alternative educational setting may be made instead of suspension in accordance with policy 3470/4305, Alternative Learning Programs/Schools. Consequences for bomb and terrorist threats are addressed in policy 4333, Weapons, Bomb Threats, Terrorist Threats and Clear Threats to Safety, and may include a 365 day suspension.
Harassment
1. Prohibited Behavior
  
  Students are prohibited from engaging in or encouraging any form of harassment, including bullying against students, employees or any other individuals on school grounds or at school-related functions. Harassment is unwanted, unwelcome and uninvited behavior that demeans, threatens or offends the victim and results in a hostile environment for the victim. The hostile environment may be created through pervasive or persistent misbehavior or a single incident if sufficiently severe. Harassment and bullying are further defined in policies 1735/4025/7235, Harassment Defined, and 1710/4021/7230, Prohibition Against Discrimination, Harassment and Bullying. Sexual harassment is further defined in policy 1736/4026/7236, Sexual Harassment Defined.
2. Consequences
  
  Complaints of harassment will be investigated pursuant to policy 1740/4010, Student and Parent Grievance Procedure, or policy 1745/4027, Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedure for Students. Incidents of misbehavior that do not rise to the level of harassment may violate policy 4310, Integrity and Civility, which establishes an expectation that students will demonstrate civility and integrity in their interactions with others. The consequences for harassment will be more severe than for violations of the standards of integrity and will be decided pursuant to policy 1745/4027, Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedures for Students. Consequences may include disciplinary action up to and including expulsion, as appropriate.
  
  Legal References: G.S. 14-33, -34 to -34.2; 115C-47, -276(r), -288, -307, -390, -391
  
  Cross References: Prohibition Against Discrimination, Harassment and Bullying (policy 1710/4021/7230), Harassment Defined (policy 1735/4025/7235), Sexual Harassment Defined (policy 1736/4026/7236), Student and Parent Grievance Procedures (policy 1740/4010), Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedures for Students (1745/4027), Alternative Learning Programs/Schools (policy 3470/4305), School Plan for Management of Behavior (policy 4302), Integrity and Civility (policy 4310), Weapons, Bomb Threats, Terrorist Threats and Clear Threats to Safety (policy 4333), Long-Term Suspension, 365 Day Suspension, Expulsion (policy 4353)
  
  Adopted: May 4, 2009
  
  NARCOTICS, ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, CHEMICALS AND
  
  DRUG PARAPHERNALIA – While on any property controlled by the Nash County Board of Education or while engaged in any school-sponsored activity, no student shall: (1) sell or attempt to sell, possess, use, inhale, ingest, transmit, conspire to transmit or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, anabolic steroid or any other controlled substance, any alcoholic beverage, malt beverage, fortified wine or other intoxicating liquor, drug paraphernalia or counterfeit drugs; (2) sell or attempt to sell, ingest, inhale or otherwise use any substance which, when used by the student with the intention to bring about a state of exhilaration and/or euphoria, causes the behavior of the student to be a threat to the health and safety of the student or others, or disturbs or disrupts the orderly operation of any part of the educational process for which the Board of Education is responsible. (NCPS Policy Code 4325)
  - Penalty – The first violation of this policy by a student for other than selling or attempting to sell shall result in the 10-day suspension, and the student shall take corrective education and/or counseling. Failure to meet these requirements shall result in long-term suspension. This suspension will be offered only one time to students during their school career unless an exception is made by the Superintendent.
  - Penalty – The first violation of this policy by a student for selling or attempting to sell a substance prohibited by this policy shall result in long-term suspension.
    
    PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION – No student shall engage in behavior, which is immoral, indecent, disreputable, or of an overly romantic, affectionate or sexual nature in the school setting.
  - Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may be warranted.
  SCHOOL BUS/TRANSPORTATION VIOLATIONS – School transportation service is a privilege, not a right. Students at all times while riding a school bus or other school vehicle shall observe the directives of the school bus driver. The following conduct is specifically prohibited:
  1. Delaying the bus schedule;
  2. Fighting, smoking, using profanity or refusing to obey the driver’s instructions;
  3. Tampering with or willfully damaging the school vehicle;
  4. Getting off at an unauthorized stop;
  5. Distracting the driver’s attention by participating in disruptive behavior while the vehicle is in operation;
  6. Failing to observe established safety rules and regulations;
  7. Willfully trespassing upon a school bus;
  8. Violating any other rule of the Student Discipline Code while on the school vehicle.
    - Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may be warranted, up to loss of bus privileges for the school year.
      
      SEXUAL HARASSMENT – All students are entitled to work and study in school-related environments that are free of sexual harassment. To this end, the board of education prohibits students from engaging in sexual harassment and advises students that when evidence of sexual harassment (including, but not limited to, deliberate, unwelcome touching; suggestions or demands for sexual involvement accompanied by implied or overt promised or preferential treatment or threats; pressure for sexual activity; continued or repeated offensive sexual flirtations, advances or repeated verbal remarks about an individual’s body; sexually degrading words used towards an individual; or the display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures) is established, disciplinary actions may be taken.
    - Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may be warranted, up to and including long-term suspension or expulsion.
      
      SKIPPING – Is defined as any student who leaves campus without following the proper procedures, leaving a classroom without permission, not being where you are scheduled to be, and any act of being out of class that does not involve tardiness, suspension, absent from school, or being called out of class by the appropriate school official. A student who is already in school and does not report to their assigned class within the first 10 minutes of the class period and does not have a note from the appropriate school personnel will be considered skipping.
    - Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted.
  TARDY TO CLASS – Not being in your designated classroom at the sound of the tardy tone. BEING TARDY TO CLASS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. YOU CANNOT LEARN IF YOU ARE NOT IN CLASS.
  
  Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted. On the second tardy, ALC will be assigned the rest of the day. On the fourth tardy, ALC will be assigned for two days. On the sixth tardy and every two tardies after, two days of OSS will be assigned.
  
  TARDY TO SCHOOL - Not arriving to school at the sound of the first bell.
  
  When arriving to school after 7:30 AM, students must check in at the main office, receive a note from the receptionist, and then present that note to gain entrance to their first period class.
  
  THEFT OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY – No student shall steal or attempt to steal or knowingly be in possession of stolen property or intentionally damage or attempt to damage any school property or private property.
  - Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may be warranted, up to long-term suspension and payment of damages. Appropriate law enforcement authorities may also be notified.
    
    THREATENING ACTIONS/EXTORTION – No student shall direct toward any school employee, toward any other student or toward any other person within the school context any language, which threatens force or violence, or any sign or act which constitutes a threat of force or violence.
  - Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted, up to long-term suspension even on first offense. If the threatening actions of a student(s) are intended to extort money, other personal property or personal services from any other student, or when any student intimidates or coerces any school employee or other student by any language which threatens force or violence or any act which constitutes a threat of force or violence, then the first violation of this policy by the student shall result in long-term suspension for the remainder of the school year and petition to court.
    
    TOBACCO/Vaping – No student, employee, visitor, guest, spectator, vendor or contractor shall be permitted under any circumstances to use or display tobacco/vaping products in any facility owned or leased or contracted for/by the Nash County Schools. (Board Policy Manual 4320/5026/7250). Vaping is considered a tobacco product and is prohibited.
  - Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. The tobacco and any paraphernalia will be confiscated, and will result in suspension and a 50 dollar fine.
    
    TRESPASSING – No student shall be on the campus of another school in the Nash County School system during the school day without the knowledge and consent of the administration of the school he/she is visiting. No student may loiter at any school during or after the close of the school day without specific need or supervision. Any student instructed to leave must do so. Any student who has been suspended from school may not appear on school property either during the school day or at any school function, on or off the premises, during the suspension period without the expressed permission of an administrator.
  - Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted, in addition to possible petition to appropriate law enforcement agencies
    
    VIOLENCE – No student shall intentionally hit, shove, scratch, bite, block the passage of or throw objects at a student or other person. However, a student who is attacked may use reasonable force in self-defense, but only to the extent to
    
    free himself/herself from the attack and notify proper school authorities. A student who exceeds this reasonable force may be disciplined even though he/she may not have provoked the fight. No student shall take any action or make any comments or written messages intended to cause others to fight or which might reasonably be expected to result in a fight.
  - Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted, including possible long-term suspension and possible petition to court.
    
    VERBAL ALTERCATION – VERBAL ALTERCATIONS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. Administration
    
    determines that a verbal altercation between two or more students negatively impacted the orderly operations of the school.
    
    Penalty – The students will have a conference with an administrator or designee. Depending upon the severity of the issue, a parent conference and/or suspension may also be warranted.
    
    FIGHTING – FIGHTING WILL NOT BE TOLERATED AND WILL BE DEALT WITH SEVERELY.
    
    Administration determines that a physical altercation has occurred.
    
    Penalty – The student will have a conference with an administrator or designee, parents will be contacted and a suspension issued, as well as arrest and/or charges filed if deemed necessary.
    
    FIGHTING INVOLVING INJURY – Administration determines the injuries to one or more students involved in the affray were the direct result of the act of fighting.
  - Penalty – 10-day suspension from school with possible recommendation for long-term suspension, arrest and/or charges filed.
    
    ASSAULT – No student shall cause or attempt to cause physical injury to another student or any other person or school employee or intentionally behave in such a manner, as could reasonably cause physical injury to any such person.
  - Penalty – The 1st violation shall result in a minimum of a 10-day suspension from school and there could be a recommendation for long term suspension based on the severity of the assault. A second violation shall result in a 10 day suspension and a recommendation for long-term suspension for the remainder of the school year. If the violation involves two or more students assaulting or attacking or causing or attempting to cause injury to another student or other person or behaving in such a way as could reasonably cause injury to another student or other person, the violation shall result in a recommendation for long-term suspension for the remainder of the year, even on the first offense. The first such violation of a student against a school employee shall also result in a recommendation for long-term suspension the remainder of the school year. Any assault shall also be reported to the appropriate law enforcement authorities and possible charged.
    
    ASSAULT INVOLVING A WEAPON – No student shall cause or attempt to cause physical harm to another student or any other person or school employee or intentionally behave in such a manner as could reasonably cause physical injury to any such person by the use of or threatening the use of a weapon or other object or thing that could reasonably be considered a weapon.
  - Penalty – The first such violation of a student assaulting another person using a weapon shall result in long- term suspension the remainder of the school year. Any such assault shall also be reported to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
    
    WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS – No student shall knowingly possess, handle or carry, whether openly or concealed, any gun, rifle, pistol or other firearm of any kind, or any dynamite cartridge, bomb, grenade, mine or powerful explosive as defined in G.S. 14-284, on any school property, building or bus, school campus, grounds, recreational area, athletic field or other property owned, used or operated by the board of education or at any school activity, except as otherwise allowed by G. S. 14-269.2(g).
  - Penalty – Suspension from the school system by the superintendent for 365 days
    
    No student shall knowingly possess, handle, or carry, whether openly or concealed, any BB gun, stun gun, air rifle, air pistol, bowie knife, dirk, dagger, sling shot, leaded cane, switchblade knife, metallic knuckles, razors and razor blades (except solely for personal shaving), and any sharp-pointed or edged instrument except instructional supplies, unaltered nail files and clips and tools used solely for preparation of food, instruction and maintenance, on any school property, building or bus, school campus, grounds, recreational area, athletic field or other property owned, used or operated by the board of education or at any school activity, except as otherwise allowed by G. S. 14-269.2(g).
  - Penalty – The first violation of this policy during the school year by a student may result in up to long-term suspension. The second violation of this policy during the school year by a student shall result in long-term suspension for the remainder of the school year. Referral shall be made to the appropriate law enforcement authority when any student brings a weapon or firearm onto school property or to a school activity.
    
    Suspension from Extracurricular Activities
    
    Any student suspended from Rocky Mount High School forfeits his/her right to attend any after-school function. The student must be off campus by 2:45 p.m. unless making up a test or receiving tutoring help from a faculty member.
    
    The student cannot attend nor participate in any athletic contest, both home and away. He/she is not allowed to attend or participate in any school functions, including the Jr./Sr. Prom. If there is a special need to be on campus, permission from administration is required. Students on campus or at school functions during suspension may be charged with trespassing.
    
    The following violations may result in a 10-day suspension, up to Long-term Suspension, regardless of offense number
    - Assault on a faculty member, staff member, or volunteer
    - Assault on another student, including fighting
    - Bomb Threats
    - Threats against students, faculty, staff, or volunteers, regardless of intent
    - Possession of a weapon or explosive device
    - Possession of drugs or alcohol
    - Distribution of drugs or alcohol
    - Gross Disrespect to a staff member
  *Failure to comply with the directions of any school staff member or school official may result in Out of School Suspension.
  
  Parking Regulations
  
  Parking Registration
  1. Vehicle registration may be obtained before and after school. Proper registration of all vehicles that will use the assigned parking space during the school year is required. Car-pooling is encouraged, as there are a limited number of spaces.
  2. Handicapped students that provide the proper documentation shall be given priority in the issuance of parking permits. Assignment of parking spaces will be determined by the Traffic Committee to meet the individual’s unique needs. Requests for handicapped parking should be made in writing to the Traffic Committee.
  3. $60.00 fee will be charged for each parking permit issued. This hanger assigns the student a reserved parking space for the current year. Students are to keep their receipt all year in case of loss or theft of hanger. The hanger will be replaced upon presentation of receipt. If privileges are revoked, a refund will not be issued.
  Parking Rules/Regulations
  
  Failure to comply with any of the following regulations will result in a parking citation and/or possible loss of parking space. Parking is a privilege and will be permitted as long as rules and regulations are followed.
  1. Maximum speed limit on campus is 10 mph. All traffic laws apply on campus.
  2. No irregular parking will be permitted. Students should park parallel to one another in the spaces provided.
  3. Students may not park in the faculty/staff area, visitor parks, or in the service drive at any time.
  4. Students may park only in their registered spaces. Parking spaces may be shared if the required information is given on file.
  5. Parking hangers from previous years must be removed. The current tag must be displayed on the rear view mirror so it may be clearly seen by anyone standing in front of the car. Students parking in the last row of the parking lot are to back into their parking space so their parking hanger is visible. If the tag cannot be seen through the darkened front windshield, the tag may be displayed directly above the vehicle inspection sticker. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure the tag is visible each time at all times in the student parking lot.
  6. Parking hangers cannot be sold or given to other students. If a student withdraws from school or graduates mid-year, the parking tag must be returned to school immediately.
  7. Upon arrival at school in the morning, students are to immediately leave the parking lot taking whatever materials they will need for the day.
  8. Students are not allowed in the parking lot between or during classes or at lunch. If students officially check out of school during the day, they are to go immediately to their car and leave campus.
  9. Students loitering in the parking lot will receive an after school detention and/or possible revocation of parking permit and tag.
  10. Students who receive parking tickets should pay their tickets as soon as possible. Students are expected to pay any parking tickets received in a six-week period before receiving their report card. Failure to pay before the end of the semester will result in the loss of the space for the second semester. The parking space may then be sold to another student. Students who do not pay parking tickets by the end of the school year forfeit their right to purchase a parking space in the following year. Seniors are expected to have paid all fines before participation in graduation exercises.
  11. Vehicles illegally parked in the student or teacher parking lots after receiving one parking ticket may be towed at the owner’s expense.
  12. Each student is responsible for his/her parking space. If another vehicle parks in the student’s assigned space, it is their responsibility to report the license plate number of the vehicle and the driver’s name, if known, to an administrator or Front Office Staff. Failure to report this information may result in the owner of the space having to pay a fine.
  13. Other violations include speeding, reckless driving, excessive noise on school property or transporting students for unauthorized absences.
  Parking or Driving Violation Consequences
  
  1st violation Warning ticket
  
  2nd violation $10 ticket and conference with an administrator
  
  3rd violation Loss of parking privileges to be determined by an administrator (no refund)
  
  Parking or Driving Citations without a parking permit
  
  $60.00 for each Violation and the vehicle may also be towed at the owner’s expense.
  
  Liability and Violation
  1. The school assumes no responsibility for the protection of, or damage to, private property in the exercise of parking privileges. The school carries no insurance for private vehicles parked on campus. Please lock cars.
  1. According to NC State Law regarding towing of vehicles parking on public school campuses, any person who violated a rule or regulation concerning parking on school grounds is guilty of a misdemeanor. Any motor vehicle
  parked in a parking lot on a school grounds in violation of the rules and regulation adopted may be removed from school grounds to a place of storage and the registered owner of such vehicle shall become liable for removal and storage charges.
3. Any student who parks a motor vehicle illegally will face disciplinary action, loss of permit to park on campus, and may face prosecution according to NC G.S. 115C-46. In addition, the vehicle may be towed without prior warning and at the owner’s expense and risk.

Prom

DATE: Pending

Location: TBD

Any RMHS student attending the prom must pay the $30.00 Activity Fee in advance. There is a $50.00 guest fee for anyone outside guest who does not attend RMHS. Prom fees are NON-REFUNDABLE.
The prom is for RMHS juniors and seniors and their invited guests. Invited guests include RMHS ninth or tenth grader, or guests from outside RMHS. Students may only bring one guest.
Outside guests must have prior approval. Students within the NRMPS will be electronically approved by their school administrator. Guests from out-of-area high schools must have an email sent to RMHS from their administrator at their respective school through the school’s official email system. Those guests who are not currently in school may request an email from an employer or minister who can attest to their character. No personal emails or handwritten “notes” will be accepted. Letters of recommendation must be on official letterhead to be accepted. Recommendations must be received by RMHS before fees can be paid.
ALL ATTENDEES, both RMHS students and guests, must present a photo ID (school, government, or employment IDs will be accepted).
All attendees shall be LESS THAN 21 years old. Proof of age may be required for any guest.
All students must remain inside the building. Students will not be able to leave and return to the prom.
Students must remember that the Prom is a school function; therefore, all school rules apply. Alcohol, drugs, or other illegal substances will not be tolerated. ANYONE suspected of alcohol consumption will be asked to submit to a breathalyzer test. Anyone refusing will be asked to leave the premises. Uniformed law enforcement officers will be present.
The Prom is a formal affair and students should dress with class and dignity. Proper attire is expected and evening gowns or dresses should be respectful and not overly revealing. The subjective opinion of the staff is final and students/guests not appropriately dressed will be asked to leave immediately.
NO CANES WILL BE PERMITTED IN THE BUILDING.
SMOKING IS NOT PERMITTED.
Students receiving a suspension from school between August 17 to April 3 will not be permitted to attend the prom.

Attendance Policy for Grades 9-12

Class attendance and participation are critical elements of the educational process and may be taken into account in assessing academic achievement. Students are expected to be at school on time and to be present at the scheduled starting time for each class. Students who are excessively tardy to school or class may be suspended for up to two days for such offenses.

Attendance
- Students may not miss more than 9 days in each class per semester.
- After the 9 days, only 5 additional days (days 10-14) can be recovered (made-up).
- The students are given only one set of 5 (days 10-14) days to recover. The process does not start over once the 5 days in each class is made up.
- 90 minute make-up sessions are required per block to recover attendance.
- Absence is an absence up to day 14 (on day 15, justifications can begin).
- Any days missed beyond day 14 can be taken to the school attendance committee through the attendance waiver process.
  - District-level letter/form will be used to request a waiver
  - Waiver is required if time is not made up
  - Waiver form is due no later than the day before the test window starts

Note: Schools may ask for all of the above.

FF Guidelines

If attendance is not recovered in the scheduled semester and student passes the course, the student will receive an FF, and must make up the FF by the end of the next semester (i.e. a student receiving an FF in the Fall semester must recover attendance by the end of the Spring semester. A student receiving an FF in the Spring semester must recover attendance by the end of the Summer recovery date).
A defined window will be set for each semester when attendance recovery is available.
- October 1 to the day prior to the fall test window opening
- March 1 to the day prior to the spring test window opening

Three Options for Attendance Reconciliation

Make up attendance time during the current semester.
Request a waiver.
Fail (FF) (If a student passes the course, but does not meet attendance standard).
- 1- Attendance Recovery - give initial grade not P or F
- 2 -Repeat a Course for Credit (if attendance is not made up) - receive grade earned in course

Note: If a student with an FF does not make up required attendance in the time allotted, they will be required to repeat the course.

EOC Courses Only

Fail Course/Not Proficient EOC

Repeat the Course for Credit.

Fail Course/Proficient EOC
Credit Recovery (School day, Evening Academy or Summer School).

Pass Course/Not Proficient EOC
A district letter/contract will be given to inform the student they must retest.
Retest required (create an incentive).
No retest taken (Administrative Decision) Consider setting a standard based on EVAAS probabilities.

Note: Credit recovery will be prioritized for 11th and 12th grades first 9th and 10th can be fitted in if space is available.

Making Up Work

When absent, a student will be allowed to make up the work that was missed. To determine what assignments must be made up, students are responsible for contacting their teachers within 2 days after returning to school. It shall be the teacher’s responsibility to inform any absent student of work missed upon the student’s return to school. The student shall be entitled to twice the number of school days absent to make up for full credit all work missed with a maximum of 10 days allowed. This formula includes time for testing arranged by the student at the convenience of the teacher. Any required work missed by the student while absent that is not made up will result in a zero for that assignment.

Reteach/Retest Policy

Purpose: Rocky Mount High School (RMHS) students shall be given the opportunity to participate in reteach/retest sessions in an effort to improve the opportunity for success.

The reteach/retest policy at RMHS is a strategy to be utilized in working with student mastery of coursework. A student is expected to demonstrate a sincere effort to perform well on the first assessment, and to complete additional learning activities prior to retesting. This policy is intended to be a complement to the regular instructional day and shall be used to increase student mastery of subject matter. This policy for retesting is applicable to all courses offered at RMHS.

The guidelines are as follows:
Retests will be offered for every major teacher made summative assessment (chapter or unit test) administered in class. (Benchmarks, midterms, formative assessments (quizzes), final exams, and State exams shall not be in the reteach/retest policy.) All students have the opportunity to request a retest, if they score below an 80 on the original test.
Students must come before or after school for this opportunity. Re-teaching the concepts must happen prior to re-testing by teacher of record or designee.
Re-teaching and Re-testing must be completed within five school days of the test scores being returned to the students. The student will receive the higher of the two grades; not to exceed an 80.
The re-teaching/re-testing policy is separate from tutoring opportunities, which are available to any student in need of extra help.

Please note: Extended periods of absence (i.e. extended illness, accident or pregnancy) will require the student and/or parent to arrange for work to be completed during the extended absence. Prior arrangements should be made through the Student Services department for work to be exchanged between the teacher and the student. A suspended student may make up all work missed under the same provisions as listed above. If suspension exceeds 5 days, students and/or parents may call Student Services get assignments to make up during the suspension.

To be a sophomore (Grade 10)	5 credits
To be a junior (Grade 11)	12 credits
To be a senior (Grade 12)	20 credits
To graduate	28 credits